Truck bed camping is a unique and convenient way to experience the great outdoors. With a truck bed tent, you can turn your pickup truck into a comfortable camping platform, allowing you to sleep off the ground and enjoy the scenery. In this article, we’ve rounded up the top 5 best truck bed tents for 2023, based on their durability, ease of setup, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, these tents are sure to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
These tents easily attach to the bed of your truck, providing a secure and elevated camping experience. From compact and lightweight options to spacious and heavy-duty choices, there’s something for every camper on this list. So, pack up your truck and hit the road with one of these top-rated truck bed tents.
What to look for when buying truck bed tents?
When buying a truck bed tent, there are several things to consider:
Compatibility: Make sure the tent is compatible with your specific make and model of truck. Many tents are designed to fit specific truck beds, so it’s important to check the size and shape of your truck bed before making a purchase.
Size: Consider how many people will be sleeping in the tent and what size truck bed you have. Some tents are designed for two people, while others can accommodate up to four or more.
Weather resistance: Look for a tent that is made from durable and waterproof materials, such as polyester or nylon. This will help you in rainy season.
Ventilation: Make sure the tent has plenty of windows and vents to allow for adequate airflow and to prevent condensation.
Ease of setup: Look for a tent that can be set up quickly and easily, with clear instructions and a minimal number of poles and stakes.
Weight and pack size: Consider how much weight and space you are willing to add to your truck, and choose a tent that is easy to pack and transport.
Price: Look for a tent that fits your budget, but don’t compromise on the quality and durability of the tent.
Brand reputation: Look for tents from reputable brands that have good customer reviews, warranty and after-sale service.
Top 5 Best Truck Bed Tents 2023
1. Guide Gear Truck Tent for Camping
The Guide Gear Truck Tent for Camping is a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their pickup truck. The tent is designed to fit most standard pickup truck beds, and is suitable for two people.
One of the standout features of this tent is its waterproof rainfly, which helps to keep you dry in case of rain or dew. The tent is made from durable and breathable polyester, and includes several windows and vents to provide adequate airflow.
The tent is also relatively easy to set up, with clear instructions and a minimal number of poles and stakes. It can be set up in around 15 minutes.
The tent is lightweight and easy to pack, which makes it a great option for those who want to take their truck camping without adding a lot of weight or taking up too much space.
The interior is spacious, has a good height and you can comfortably move around inside the tent. The tent also has a good ventilation system that keeps the interior well-ventilated and prevents condensation.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that the Guide Gear Truck Tent is not the most heavy-duty option out there, so it may not be the best choice for extreme weather conditions or rugged terrain.
Overall, the Guide Gear Truck Tent is a great option for those who want a comfortable, easy-to-set-up tent that can be used in the bed of a pickup truck. It’s waterproof, lightweight and easy to set up, and provides a good value for the price.
2. Rightline Gear Full-Size Long Truck Bed Tent
The Rightline Gear Full-Size Long Truck Bed Tent is a high-quality option for those who want to camp in the bed of their full-size long truck. This tent is designed to fit trucks with an 8 foot bed, and is suitable for up to two people.
One of the standout features of this tent is its waterproof and UV-protected rainfly, which helps to keep you dry and protected from the sun while camping. The tent is made from durable and breathable polyester and has a good ventilation system that keeps the interior well-ventilated and prevents condensation.
The tent is also relatively easy to set up, with clear instructions and a minimal number of poles and stakes. You can set it up in just 15 minutes. The tent is also very sturdy and can withstand strong winds and moderate rain.
The interior is spacious, has a good height and you can comfortably move around inside the tent. The tent also has a good ventilation system that keeps the interior well-ventilated and prevents condensation.
The Rightline Gear Full-Size Long Truck Bed Tent is also lightweight and easy to pack, which makes it a great option for those who want to take their truck camping without adding a lot of weight or taking up too much space.
Additionally, the tent includes a gear pocket and a lantern holder for keeping your personal items organized and for added convenience.
Overall, the Rightline Gear Full-Size Long Truck Bed Tent is a top-of-the-line option for those looking for a durable, easy-to-set-up tent that can be used in the bed of a full-size long truck. It’s waterproof, UV-protected, lightweight and easy to set up, and provides a good value for the price.
3. North East Harbor Truck Bed Tent
The North East Harbor Truck Bed Tent is a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their compact truck with regular bed. This tent is designed to fit trucks with a bed size of 72″-73″ (6′-6’1″) and is suitable for two adults.
One of the standout features of this tent is its waterproof rainfly, which helps to keep you dry in case of rain or dew. The tent is made from durable and breathable polyester, and includes several windows and vents to provide adequate airflow. The tent also comes with a storage bag, making it easy to pack and transport.
The tent is also relatively easy to set up, with clear instructions and a minimal number of poles and stakes. You can also set this up in just 15 minutes of less. The tent is also very sturdy and can withstand strong winds and moderate rain.
The interior is spacious and has a good height, which makes it comfortable to move around inside the tent. The tent also has a good ventilation system that keeps the interior well-ventilated and prevents condensation.
Additionally, the North East Harbor truck bed tent includes a gear pocket and a lantern holder for keeping your personal items organized and for added convenience.
Overall, the North East Harbor Truck Bed Tent is a great option for those who want a comfortable, easy-to-set-up tent that can be used in the bed of a compact truck with regular bed. It’s waterproof, lightweight and easy to set up, and provides a good value for the price.
4. FOFANA Truck Bed Tent
The FOFANA Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup is a great option for camping in the bed of a pickup truck. The tent is designed to fit mid and full-size trucks, and can be used with a camper shell for added protection and privacy.
One of the standout features of this tent is its automatic setup, which eliminates the need for complicated poles and stakes. The tent also has a patented design that allows for easy and fast setup. The tent also has a built-in awning, which provides extra shade and protection from the elements.
The tent is made of durable and waterproof material, which is suitable for all types of weather. The tent also includes mesh windows and vents, which provide excellent ventilation and keep the tent cool. The tent also comes with a rainfly, which can be used to protect against rain and wind.
The tent is perfect for overland camping and tailgating, as it utilizes the bed of the truck as a comfortable and elevated camping space. It’s a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their truck but want to avoid the hassle of setting up a traditional tent.
Overall, the FOFANA Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup is a great option for camping in the bed of a pickup truck. The tent is easy to set up, durable, and suitable for all types of weather. It’s a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their truck but want to avoid the hassle of setting up a traditional tent.
5. Quictent Pickup Truck Tent
The Quictent Pickup Truck Tent is a great option for camping in the bed of a pickup truck. The tent is designed to fit a variety of bed sizes and can accommodate up to 2 people. It also includes a removable awning, rainfly, and storage bag.
One of the standout features of this tent is its waterproof PU2000mm material, which offers excellent protection against rain and other elements. The tent also has a removable awning, which provides extra shade and protection from the sun and rain. The tent also includes a rainfly, which can be used to protect against wind and heavy rain.
The tent also has a built-in sewn-in groundsheet, which provides additional protection from the ground, and it also has a built-in mesh windows that provide excellent ventilation and keep the tent cool. The tent is also easy to set up, it takes only minutes to set up, and it includes a storage bag for easy transportation and storage.
The tent is perfect for camping and tailgating, as it utilizes the bed of the truck as a comfortable and elevated camping space. It is also a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their truck but want to avoid the hassle of setting up a traditional tent.
Overall, the Quictent Pickup Truck Tent is a great option for camping in the bed of a pickup truck. The tent is waterproof, durable, and easy to set up, it includes a removable awning, rainfly, and storage bag. It’s a great option for those who want to camp in the bed of their truck but want to avoid the hassle of setting up a traditional tent.
What is the point of a truck bed tent?
A truck bed tent is a type of camping tent that is designed to be used in the bed of a pickup truck. The main point of a truck bed tent is to provide a comfortable and elevated camping space, while utilizing the bed of the truck as a foundation. This allows campers to have a dry and secure place to sleep, while also keeping their gear and supplies organized and protected in the bed of the truck.
Another point of a truck bed tent is that it allows campers to camp in places that a traditional tent might not be able to go, such as remote and off-road locations. It also eliminates the need to find a flat, clear spot to pitch a traditional tent, and it can be more convenient for those who prefer to sleep in the bed of their truck.
Additionally, truck bed tents also offer the option of being able to use the truck as a shelter in case of bad weather or for additional privacy. With a truck bed tent, you can have a dry and secure place to sleep while keeping your gear and supplies organized and protected in the bed of the truck.
Why use a truck tent?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to use a truck tent when camping:
Elevated and comfortable sleeping: Sleeping in the bed of a pickup truck is elevated off the ground, which can provide added comfort, especially in damp or wet conditions.
Convenience: A truck tent eliminates the need to find a flat, clear spot to pitch a traditional tent, and it can be more convenient for those who prefer to sleep in the bed of their truck.
Versatility: A truck tent allows campers to camp in places that a traditional tent might not be able to go, such as remote and off-road locations.
Protection for gear: A truck bed tent allows campers to keep their gear and supplies organized and protected in the bed of the truck, which is more secure than leaving them on the ground.
Weather protection: A truck tent can provide added protection from the elements, as the bed of a truck is already elevated and protected by the cab of the truck. This is useful during bad weather.
Privacy: A truck tent can give you the added privacy that you may not get from a traditional tent, especially if you are camping in a crowded campground.
Cost-effective: Instead of buying a separate tent, sleeping pad, and other camping gear, using a truck bed tent allows you to use your truck as the foundation for your camping setup, that can be a more cost-effective option.
Overall, using a truck tent can provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, with added protection for gear, weather protection, privacy, and cost-effectiveness.
How many people can sleep in a truck bed tent?
The capacity of a truck bed tent can vary depending on the size of the tent and the size of the truck bed. Most truck bed tents are designed to accommodate one or two people, but some larger models can accommodate up to four people. It’s important to note that the size of the truck bed tent you choose should be based on the number of people who will be using it and the size of the truck bed. You should also consider the size of the people that will be using it, taller people will require more space to be comfortable.
It’s also important to keep in mind that while a truck bed tent can accommodate a certain number of people, it may not be as spacious as a traditional camping tent. So, if you’re someone who likes to have a lot of room to move around in, you might want to consider a larger truck bed tent or a traditional camping tent.
It’s always a good idea to check the dimensions of the tent and compare them to the size of your truck bed to ensure that it will fit properly and comfortably.
Also, always follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer regarding the capacity of the tent.
What size mattress fits in a truck bed?
The size of mattress that will fit in a truck bed depends on the size of the truck bed and the size of the mattress.
For a standard full-size truck bed, a mattress measuring 54 inches wide by 74 inches long will fit comfortably.
For a standard queen-size truck bed, a mattress measuring 60 inches wide by 80 inches long will fit comfortably.
For a standard king-size truck bed, a mattress measuring 76 inches wide by 80 inches long will fit comfortably.
It’s important to note that these are standard measurements and may vary depending on the make and model of the truck. It’s always a good idea to measure the interior of the truck bed to ensure that the mattress will fit comfortably.
It’s also important to consider the height of the truck bed when choosing a mattress. Some truck beds have a higher height than others and you’ll want to make sure that the mattress will fit comfortably and not be too high to climb in and out of the bed.
You should also keep in mind that if you have a camper shell or tonneau cover on your truck bed, you will have to take it into account when measuring the space available for the mattress.
If you’re looking for a mattress for your truck bed, it’s always a good idea to measure the interior of the truck bed to ensure that the mattress will fit comfortably and to check if the mattress will work with any accessories you might have on your truck bed. Also, I have written one more article on Top 5 Inexpensive Air Mattresses so make sure you check it out, if you are looking to buy one.
Can you use a truck tent on the ground?
A truck tent is designed to be used in the bed of a pickup truck, so it is not recommended to use it on the ground. The tent is designed to fit snugly in the bed of a truck, and the shape and size of the tent are specific to the dimensions of a truck bed. When you use it on the ground, the tent may not fit properly and may not provide adequate protection from the elements.
Additionally, most truck tents are not designed to be used on the ground and may not have the necessary features such as a built-in groundsheet, or stakes for anchoring the tent to the ground.
If you want to use a tent on the ground, you should look for a traditional camping tent that is designed for that purpose. And for that, I have written an article on 2 room tents, so if you want to purchase one make sure you read it out. These tents are designed with features such as a built-in groundsheet, guy ropes, and stakes for anchoring the tent to the ground. They also usually come with instructions on how to set them up on the ground properly.
However, there are some tents that have a floorless design and can be used on the ground, but are designed to be used with a truck bed. These tents have an opening in the bottom that allows you to set it up on the ground and use it as a traditional camping tent, while also having the option to use it on the truck bed.
It’s important to always follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer regarding the use of the tent.
Can you use a truck tent with a tonneau cover?
Yes, you can use a truck tent with a tonneau cover, but it depends on the specific type of truck tent and tonneau cover you have.
Some truck tents are designed to work with tonneau covers, and they have an opening in the bottom that allows you to set up the tent while the tonneau cover is still in place. These tents usually come with instructions on how to set them up with a tonneau cover.
However, some tonneau covers may not be compatible with truck tents, and in this case, you may need to remove the tonneau cover before setting up the tent.
It’s important to check the compatibility of your truck tent and tonneau cover before purchasing, and also to follow the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer regarding the use of the tent with a tonneau cover.
When using a truck tent with a tonneau cover, it’s important to ensure that the tonneau cover is properly secured, as the tent will be resting on top of it, and that the tent is properly secured to the bed of the truck, to prevent it from shifting or collapsing.
It’s also important to note that a tonneau cover may not provide enough protection from the elements, especially if the tent is set up on the ground, it’s better to use a traditional camping tent that is designed for that purpose, and it will have all the features and instructions for proper set up and protection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, truck bed tents are a great option for camping in the bed of a pickup truck. They provide a comfortable and elevated sleeping space, while also keeping your gear and supplies organized and protected. There are many different truck bed tents available on the market, and choosing the right one for you can depend on factors such as the size of your truck bed, the number of people who will be using it, and the type of camping you plan on doing.
