Updated June 4, 2023
It used to be that when you went camping you were on the ground at the mercy of insects and other wild beasts or you stayed in a camper. In the early 90s, a sort of compromise was developed in the form of truck tents. These are relatively cheap and comfortable, easy to set up, and provide a reasonable level of security.
To help you decide which truck tent in the range on the market today best suits your needs and pocketbook, some of the best have been selected as an introduction. There’s a comparison table to begin, followed by descriptions, key features, photos, videos, and a basic buying guide.
If you have any questions or concerns, please use the comments section at the bottom. I’d love to know your thoughts
For more information on camping gear, please check out these reviews:
Backpacking Tents Backpacking Backpack Backpacking Sleeping Pads Camping Beds Portable Toilets Bivy Sacks Camping Hammocks Backpacking Sleeping Bags Ultralight Tents SUV Tents 4 Season Tents 4 Person Tents Beach Tents
Best Pickup Truck Bed Tents of 2023
- Napier Backroadz Truck Tent
- Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent
- Rightline Gear Truck Tent
- Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent
- Napier Outdoor Sportz Compact Bed Truck Tent
- Napier Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III
- Milliard Truck Tent
- Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room
Best Pickup Truck Bed Tents Comparison Table
| Photo | Tent | Size | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | Napier Backroadz Truck Tent | 5 Sizes for 5’ to 8’2” Beds Height: 58" to 62" | 8 lbs | $$ |
  | Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent | 2 Sizes for 5'5" to 8' Beds Height: 60" | 16 lbs | $$$ |
  | Rightline Gear Truck Tent | 3 Sizes for 5' to 8' Beds Height: 58" | 8.64 lbs | $$ |
  | Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent | 79" to 81" Beds Height: 63" | 11 lbs | $ |
  | Napier Outdoor Sportz Compact Bed Truck Tent | 60" to 62" Beds Height: 67" | 24 lbs | $$ |
  | Napier Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III | 87" x 50" Height: 66" | 20 lbs | $$ |
  | Milliard Truck Tent | 76" to 80" Beds Height: 70" | 15.67 lbs | $ |
  | Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room | 56″ x 132″ (open base dimensions) Height: 52" | 132 lbs | $$$$$ |
| Photo | Tent | Size | Weight | Price |
The Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is constructed with durable 68D polyester taffeta tent walls, a full polyethylene floor, and sturdy fiberglass frame poles.
It can be set up in 10 minutes or less with a color-coding system for the sleeves and poles and is available in 5 sizes to suit a range of popular truck beds from 5’ to 8’2” in length with a reasonably comfortable center height of 58” to 62”.
Strong weather protection is provided by a full rain fly with storm flaps for the door and the 2 mesh windows.
It sleeps 2 comfortably and floor space is maximized by storage options in an overhead gear loft, gear pockets, and lantern holder.
At 16 pounds it packs away in a 29” x 9.5” x 9.5” carry bag easily stowed in the truck bed or behind the seat.
The pricing is moderate and it is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
- 68D polyester taffeta construction with a full-length rainfly and polyethylene floor
- Fiberglass poles
- Easy 10-minute setup with a color-coded sleeve and pole assembly
- Gear loft, gear pockets, and lantern holder
- 1 door, 2 mesh windows, both with storm flaps
- Sleeps 2
- Carry bag included
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: 5 versions for truck beds from 5’ to 8’2” in length
- Height: 58” to 62”
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Colors: grey/green
- Warranty: 1-year limited
- Price: $$
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is a durable, heavy-duty, 30-pound model made of 100% cotton duck canvas that is waterproof, yet breathable, that will serve you well in all 4 seasons.
This floorless model has a steel tube frame that is securely mounted on clamp-on rails and has a tunnel-shaped design that provides a maximum headroom of 60” for the full length of the tent.
It has 5 windows for ventilation including one to the cab.
There are 2 large pockets for stashing baggage and small front and rear awnings for additional protection from the weather.
Pricing on this exceptionally sturdy tent is a little higher than most of the other models reviewed here but it is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
- Durable, waterproof, and breathable 100% cotton duck canvas construction
- Floorless design
- ¾” steel tube frame that is mounted with clamp-on rails
- 5 windows including a cab access window
- Large D-shaped door with quality YKK zippers
- Tailgate down design
- Tunnel shape for space maximization
- Small front and rear awnings
- 2 large internal storage pockets
- Carry bag included
- Seasons: 4
- Sizes: 2 versions for truck beds from 5’5” to 6’5” and 8’ in length, compatible with the Ford F Series, Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan
- Height: 60”
- Weight: 16 pounds
- Colors: grey/off-white
- Warranty: limited lifetime
- Price: $$$
The Rightline Gear Truck Tent comes in sizes for compact, mid-size, and full-size truck beds ranging from 5‘ to 8’, and is constructed from durable, waterproofed 68D PU-coated nylon.
Easy to set up using a color-coding system with the simple instructions included, it has a floorless design with a large D-shaped door, mesh wall vents, and a sky vent for air circulation and beautiful night views, along with a full rainfly to keep you completely dry.
To keep the floor uncluttered for sleeping 2, there are 2 gear pockets and a hook to hang your lantern, and glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls to eliminate fumbling around looking for them.
Pricing is quite reasonable and the tent is backed by a 1-year warranty from Rightline Gear.
- Durable 68D polyester construction, PU coated for waterproofing
- Taped and sealed seams
- Sleeps 2
- Floorless design
- Full-length rainfly
- Heavy-duty nylon straps with plastic buckles that won’t scratch the finish of your truck
- Color-coded poles and pole pockets for easy 10-15 minute set up
- 2 gear pockets, lantern hanging hook, glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls
- Sky vent for views and ventilation
- Mesh vents on tent walls for air circulation
- Stuff bag and easy-to-follow instructions included
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: comes in compact, mid-size, and full-size versions for truck beds from 5’ to 8’
- Height: 58”
- Weight: 8.4 pounds (mid-size)
- Colors: grey/black/orange
- Warranty: 1-year manufacturer’s
- Price: $$
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent
The Guide Gear Full-Size Truck Tent is budget-priced yet durably constructed with waterproof 190T polyester and shock-corded fiberglass poles.
It provides excellent weather protection for full-sized pick-ups with beds from 79” to 81” in length with a full rainfly and sewn-in polyester floor.
A large D-shaped door and mesh windows and vents maintain good air circulation, and 2 mesh storage pockets give you a place to put your stuff up off the floor making it even roomier for 2 sleepers.
Set up is reasonably straightforward and quick with tension straps to secure it to the truck.
To go with the remarkably low price is a 1-year warranty. Check with the seller/manufacturer for full details.
- Constructed of durable 190T polyester with a waterproof coating
- Sewn-in polyethylene floor
- Sleeps 2
- Full rainfly
- 4 shock-corded fiberglass poles with tension straps to secure to the truck
- Large D-shaped door
- Several mesh windows and vents
- 2 mesh storage pockets
- Weather-resistant polyester carry bag
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: 79” to 81” for full-sized pick-ups
- Height: 63”
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Colors: green
- Warranty: ask for details of the 1-year warranty
- Price: $
Napier Outdoor Sportz Compact Bed Truck Tent
The Napier Outdoor Sportz Compact Bed Truck Tent from their 57 series is roomy enough to sleep 2, has substantial head space with a height of 67”, and a gear loft and gear pocket to free up floor space.
It has durable polyester with a waterproof PU coating, polyester floor, full rainfly with reinforced taped seams, and storm flaps for the windows and doors to assure a dry night’s sleep.
Easy 15-minute assembly is accomplished using color-coding for the 6 sturdy shock-corded fiberglass poles and sleeves.
In addition, an optional 4’ x 4’ awning above the large door offers an extra measure of outside sun and weather protection.
Heavier than the other models reviewed here at 24 pounds, it packs into a convenient expandable bag, is priced quite reasonably, and comes with a 1-year warranty
- Constructed of durable polyester taffeta with a waterproof PU coating
- Polyester oxford floor and full rainfly with taped seams for enhanced water-resistance
- Sleeps 2
- Large tent door with an optional 4’ x 4’ awning for shade and cover for gear
- Mesh windows, 2 ceiling vents for air circulation
- Storm flaps for the door and windows for added weather protection
- 6 shock-corded fiberglass poles
- 15-minute color-coded pole and sleeve assembly
- Gear loft, 2 gear pockets, and lantern holder
- Expandable carry bag included
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: 60” to 62” for compact beds (5 other versions are available in the 57 series for different-sized trucks)
- Height: 67”
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Colors: blue/grey
- Warranty: 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Price: $$
Napier Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III
The Napier Sportz Avalanche Truck Tent III is very similar in specifications to the Compact Bed model reviewed above but is designed especially to fit the Chevrolet Avalanche and Cadillac Escalade EXT truck beds.
As such it has an 87” length to accommodate the extended bed. Along with the 50” width, it comfortably sleeps 2 with plenty of legroom.
Using the same durable waterproof polyester construction with a floor, full rainfly, and a large tent door, this time the 4” x 4’ awning off the rear is not optional but built-in to the package.
It has large mesh windows and ceiling vents, an easy color-coded setup, and a special feature, 2 small floor windows to make use of the truck’s cargo lights.
Windows and doors have storm flaps and there is convenient storage available in the gear loft and 2 gear pockets.
At 20 pounds, it is slightly lighter than the Compact Bed model and has a similarly reasonable price and the same 1-year warranty.
- Constructed of durable polyester taffeta with a waterproof PU coating
- Polyester oxford floor and full rainfly with taped seams for enhanced water-resistance
- Sleeps 2
- Large tent door
- 4’ x 4’ awning for shade and cover for gear using 2 shock-corded fiberglass and 4 steel poles
- 2 large mesh windows, 2 ceiling vents for air circulation
- 2 small floor windows to utilize the truck bed’s cargo lights
- Storm flaps for the door and windows for added weather protection
- 5 shock-corded fiberglass poles
- 15-minute color-coded pole and sleeve assembly
- Gear loft, 2 gear pockets, and lantern holder
- Expandable carry bag included
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: 87” x 50” specifically designed for Chevrolet Avalanche or Cadillac Escalade EXT trucks (measure carefully for possible fits to other models)
- Height: 66”
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Colors: blue/grey
- Warranty: 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Price: $$
The Milliard Truck Tent is a durable, low-priced tent designed for use in the 6.5’ truck beds found on a number of popular pick-ups.
Constructed of durable ripstop polyester, it has a full rainfly and sewn-in floor, and a maximum height of 70” to comfortably sleep 2.
The mesh door and windows are great for ventilation and all come with closable flaps for privacy and storm protection.
A handy lantern hook is provided for lighting and a gear pocket to free up floor space.
It takes around 15-minutes to assemble the system of straps, buckles, and poles that mount it firmly against the wind and weather.
When you’re finished, its 16.67 pounds of components break down even more quickly and pack into a convenient carry bag.
There is a warranty but you’ll have to confirm with the seller the full details.
- Constructed of durable ripstop polyester
- Sturdy double-stitched seams
- Sewn-in floor
- Full rainfly
- Sleeps 2
- Mesh door and windows with privacy shades on the windows and a storm flap on the door
- Includes a lantern hook and interior gear pocket
- Convenient carry bag
- Seasons: 3
- Sizes: 76” x 80” designed for a 6.5’ truck bed including for a Chevy C/K, Chevy Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F Series, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, or Toyota Tundra
- Height: 70”
- Weight: 15.67 pounds
- Colors: green/grey
- Warranty: check with the seller for warranty details
- Price: $
Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room
The Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room is a convenient, spacious camping option mountable on pick-ups and other vehicles that sleeps up to 4 adults.
The durable poly/cotton and polyester fabrics employed are wind and water-resistant and supported by an aluminum framework that takes 1 to 2 hours for 2 individuals to install but only 2 to 5 minutes thereafter to set up on-site.
It has 3 mesh windows with awnings, a convenient pull-out veranda for outside shelter, and upper air vents to release hot air.
An aluminum ladder is provided to access the entrance.
It’s heavy, sturdy, and comfortable, with a high price in comparison to the other more basic designs reviewed above.
- Constructed of durable poly/cotton ripstop and polyester oxford fabric with a waterproof PU coating
- Includes a PVC floor, aluminum ladder, and poles, and a 90” x 90” zip-on annex room with polyester walls
- Aluminum frame
- Sleeps 2 in the main area
- The annex can accommodate a table and chairs, or a queen-size mattress for 1 or 2
- Upper air vents for warm air discharge
- 1-2 hour installation time (with 2 people)
- 2 to 5-minute setup time
- 3 mesh “no-see-um” windows with awnings
- Pull-out overhead veranda
- Seasons: 3
- Size: 56″ x 132″ (open base dimensions)
- Height: 52”
- Weight: 132 pounds
- Colors: green/brown
- Warranty: check with the seller/manufacturer for details
- Price: $$$$$
Truck Tent Buying Guide
Size & Truck Compatibility
Truck beds come in a range of sizes from 5 to 8 feet long. Before you purchase a tent you should measure your bed and strive to find as close a match as possible in the available truck tents. Fortunately, manufacturers generally provide a lot of info regarding which truck models their tents fit.
As far as being a comfortable fit for people, height is an important measurement. If you are tall and don’t like crawling or crouching deeply to move around, look for center heights that will accommodate you. Models here have heights ranging from 52” to 70”. If you want to sleep more than one, choose a tent that is as wide as the truck bed and look for storage features that will keep your gear out of the sleeping area.
Seasonality
Like all tents for camping, truck tents are described by the number of seasons of the year for which adequate protection is provided. Most reviewed here are 3-season tents meaning that they are appropriate for spring, summer, and fall. The Kodiak Canvas model is a 4-season tent that can also resist winter conditions, as well.
Materials and Construction
The tent walls, canopy, and rainfly are usually made of polyester, though nylon or one of several forms of canvas may be effectively used. They all can be water-resistant with a high Denier rating desirable. PU coating is often used to assure waterproofing. Canvas can be heavy and is often employed in 4-season tents.
Durable seams that are double-stitched, taped, or otherwise sealed provide an added measure of waterproofing.
Most poles in the framework of truck tents are made of fiberglass which is durable, elastic, and relatively lightweight. It is possible to find steel in the framework, as on the Kodiak Canvas model above, or even aluminum.
Set-Up
Most truck tents are pretty easy to set up. After you have done it once or twice it is usually a breeze. Several models reviewed here have made it simpler by color-coding the poles and sleeves. They all use straps and buckles to attach to the bed and can usually be set up or broken down in 10-15 minutes.
Tents like the Tuff Stuff Roof Top model reviewed above are a bit of a different beast. It requires a more or less permanent installation which takes up to 2 hours and thereafter only takes 2-5 minutes to set up after arrival at the campsite.
All tents will come with instructions to make set-up and installation as easy as possible. If you have any questions you can check customer reviews or contact the seller/manufacturer.
Other Features
Here are some features to look for that add to the convenience, comfort, and functionality of your truck tent:
- Storage Areas – With the floor space limited it is helpful to have places to stow gear and baggage so that you have more room to occupy comfortably. Pockets on the side walls or a loft overhead can serve this purpose. A hook or location for lighting is another feature to look for.
- Sewn-In Floor – Truck tents may come floorless but some include a sewn-in floor which provides a layer of protection between you and the truck bed and can add to the prevention of water entry. Floorless models have the advantage of allowing you to mount your tent without the bother of removing what’s already loaded.
- Mesh Screens – Windows and doors with mesh screens are useful to prevent the entry of mosquitoes and bugs while still having ventilation and views of the exterior.
- Removable Rainfly – The fabric in the top area of the tent that serves as the outer barrier is the rainfly. Most of the models here have one that can be conveniently rolled up or detached to allow for better air circulation through windows and vents which can be quite valuable in hot weather. In addition, removal leaves you with the opportunity to see outside and view the glittering stars at night.
- Ventilation – Even with a rainfly employed, ventilation from the door, windows, or dedicated vents allows air circulation that adds to comfort levels and is especially important on hot summer nights.
- Awning – Extending from the front door, this is a piece of fabric that can be mounted that provides shade for relaxing outside or a place to give baggage shelter from the rain and sun.
For more information on camping gear, please check out these reviews:
Backpacking Tents Backpacking Backpack Backpacking Sleeping Pads Camping Beds Portable Toilets Bivy Sacks Camping Hammocks Backpacking Sleeping Bags Ultralight Tents SUV Tents 4 Season Tents 4 Person Tents Beach Tents
Feedback and Comments
I hope you have found this review of truck tents to be useful. If you have any questions, ideas, or personal experiences, please feel free to share them in the comments. If there is no comments section directly below, click here: >>comments<<
Leave a Reply