Camping has come a long way over the years. We all remember the days when pitching up a tent and huddling over a warm campfire was considered the height of outdoor exploration. But now, thanks to small truck campers’ innovative and creative design, we can have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors.
Waking up on the cold hard ground or in a damp tent is no longer the only option. With the recent advancements of small truck campers, weekend adventurers can enjoy a more luxurious camping experience on outdoor getaways. Half-ton campers have everything from complete heating and cooling systems to full baths.
4 Wheel Parts has researched and scoured the market to bring you a list of what we consider to be three of the best small truck campers on the market. They range in size, price, and features, so you can pick what works best for you and your next getaway.
Introducing the Lance 650
The Lance 650 is amongst the best small truck campers on the market, and for a good reason. This lightweight trailer comes in at just 1,640 pounds dry and 1,800 fully loaded, making it a perfect match for 1/2-ton pickup trucks.
With generous 22-gallon fresh, 15-gallon grey, and 16-gallon black water tanks, the Lance 650 gives you plenty of water storage without the anxiety of finding the next dump station. This autonomy will surely last you the entire long weekend, keeping you off the grid and in the wild.
In terms of amenities, the Lance 650 does not disappoint. Starting with the 19-inch TV, built-in AC, and Fantastic fan, being inside feels comfortable and cozy rather than tight and claustrophobic. This is achieved, in part, by a 6’9″ interior ceiling height.
Step out of the camper, and the quality and craftsmanship speak for themselves. Professional grade construction and the use of lightweight materials are why this camper made our list. The Lance 650 also has a rear awning and several windows for great natural light and airflow.
Overall, the Lance 650 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their camping experience light, nimble and luxurious. Short-bed half-ton truck owners should definitely put the Lance 650 on their list.
Introducing the Northstar Liberty
Up next, the 2023 Northstar Liberty provides a great option if you are looking for a small truck camper that is as versatile as it is luxurious. It is slightly longer than the Lance 650, but the additional 12 inches makes a difference in the living space.
The Liberty is also slightly heavier, weighing in at 1,775 pounds dry, but owners aren’t going to see that much of a difference compared to others on our list. This camper can easily be towed with a 1/2-ton pickup truck, making it an excellent option for weekend warriors who don’t want to upgrade their rig just for camping.
Northstar’s Liberty features a 20-gallon freshwater tank and a 13-gallon grey holding tank. Another big plus of choosing the Liberty is the cassette toilet system. It makes emptying the 4-gallon fresh and 5-gallon black cassette water tanks much easier. If you plan to spend more than a few days in the woods, this could be useful.
Inside the Liberty, you’re greeted by a comfortable living space with plenty of amenities. This includes an auto-ignition furnace, upgradable 3-way, 3.7 cubic-foot Dometic fridge and a 6-inch gel/memory foam queen-size mattress for a restful night’s sleep. LED lighting and multiple gas-filled pane windows provide exceptional visibility day or night.
Outside, the new Liberty is a work of art. This small truck camper is a weekend warrior’s dream, from stunning graphics to embedded LED access lighting and exterior USB plugs. Optional extras like a solar panel and electric awning make dry camping ideal for those wanting to escape it all.
To sum it up, the 2023 Northstar Liberty is an excellent option for anyone looking for a small truck camper that will provide them with plenty of creature comforts and amenities. And with numerous extra add-ons, the camper of your dreams is closer than you think.
Introducing the Adventurer 80RB
An ultra-modern design and crisp, clean lines are the best way to describe the Adventurer 80RB. It has the same amenities as the others on the list, but with a flare that sets it apart from the pack.
Weight-wise, it comes in at a mere 1,762 pounds dry and is designed to be towed with a 1/2-ton pickup truck with a short or regular bed. Overall length measures 15’10 “, making it perfect for those who want a smaller truck camper without sacrificing living space and creature comforts.
As for the water capacity, a 15-gallon freshwater tank is plenty for a few days away from city life. While it may seem a little on the small side, it’s plenty for most weekend adventurers. Black and gray water tanks have both a 6-gallon capacity.
Everything about the Adventurer 80RB has been designed to maximize comfort and convenience. The interior of the camper takes the cake. Its luxurious details and exclusive rollover sofa allow an additional two adults to sleep comfortably.
A sealed two-burner cooktop residential grate, Dometic’s stainless steel fridge/freezer combo, and a modern sink ooze luxury and class. And with a 6’5″ roof ceiling height, even the tallest of travelers can stand up straight inside. Lastly, LED lighting and multiple windows provide excellent visibility for stargazing or just admiring the views from afar.
The Adventurer 80RB comes with all the bells and whistles you need to make a weekend away from home enjoyable. Add-ons such as wireless jacks and an external sound system will make you the life of the party.
At the end of the day, making the right choice for your small truck camper is all about finding the one that fits your lifestyle. 4 Wheel Parts has narrowed down the list so you can easily make an informed decision. Whether it’s the Northstar Liberty, the Adventurer 80RB, or the Lance 650, you can find something that fits your needs. Happy camping!
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