     |
Consider a truck-camper
What is a truck-camper
The truck-camper is a very popular RV configuration, and is a popular choice for those that head onto the back roads on hunting or fishing trips. Essentially it is a camper without wheels that is loaded directly on to the pickup chassis or truck tray.
This is simply by reversing the truck under the camper which is supported on jacks, and lowering it in place. Once lowered the unit is secured down to prevent movement. They are rather varied in size ranging from around 18 to 22 feet.
When the vehicle reaches the campsite the camping unit is set down on location supported by it’s own jacks. The truck or pickup can then be used as the utility vehicle making the setup very versatile and relatively compact
Truck camper design has really advanced with some very innovative plans being constructed that maximize the use of space, whilst still maintaining both versatility and manageability. Many truck-camper units incorporate toilets, showers and good kitchen facilities.
They also use or borrow other RV ideas such as the pop top to increase headroom as well as awnings and other foldaway space ideas. One particularly innovative idea was to maximize the area over vehicle cabs with the extended cabover.
Also truck campers have become less box shaped and become more aerodynamically efficient, which will save on gas bills and should be part of the selection and decision making process
Choosing a truck camper
Like choosing any RV be sure to analyze what your actual requirements are, don’t buy something far to big for your real needs. If you have an existing vehicle don’t overload the weight carrying capability of the truck. Like all campers make sure you get something adequate for the number of people traveling with you.
What about the jacking systems, how easy to use?
Quality truck campers have 4 corner ball screw jacks that independently and manually operated. To take the camper off your truck, first remove the tie-downs, then you disengage the safety latch on each of the jacks (one should be installed!) then lower the jacks to the ground.
It only takes several turns of the jacks to get you clear of the truck tray. Up market truck campers also may have electric jacks which takes the pain out of the exercise for less fit people and remote controllers are used. You can jack just one or all simultaneously.
Ez Up Canopies - Pop Up Tents
|
