New technology brings bigger and better equipment to the outdoor community.
We now have truck bed tents at our disposal. These tents pitch on the back of your truck bed in a safe and secure manner instead of in the ground with stakes.
As you go through this article you’ll discover things you need to know regarding these tents, how to go about purchasing one and how to get the most of of them.
In my opinion, These are the best options! Enjoy.
PRICE
Prices vary a lot when it comes to these sort of tents.
Through my list you will find tents under $100 and some over $250, as quality plays a big role and some contain features others don’t have.
Your final purchase will depend on:
- The quality you’re looking for
- The type of brand
- The features the tent possesses.
QUALITY
As with most items, you get what you pay for and that’s what I’ve discovered after doing my research.
Quality is the way the tent has been constructed, the type of brand (some produce better tents than others) and the type of materials used.
Quality Control also pays a big role, because without good quality control the company will be constantly releasing bad/cheap tents, and it doesn’t take long before bad reviews pile on top of each other.
That’s why online feedback is a good indicator on quality, performance and sustainability.
SIZES
Almost all truck bed tents are designed for 2 people and that’s it.
Depending on the size of your truck bed, you will almost always have to settle for a 2-person tent.
However, different brands, features and sizes means there’s tents available with long lengths so tall people don’t feel cramped.
Some even have center heights as tall as 6.5 feet!
Getting the right size – When you measure your truck bed you don’t have to include the tail gate. I recommend measuring the bed first, then if you need more space for a tent you like, add in the tail gate. One of the most popular questions that people ask about the sizing is in relation to the size of the bed. When in doubt go for the size of the bed.
Official product page – More times than not the manufacturers include the type of vehicle the tent will fit along with the different sizes available on official product pages, so don’t stress too much wondering if it’ll fit your vehicle or not.
Reading questions already answered – If you still don’t know if it will fit your truck bed, scroll down to the “Customer questions and answers” section on official product pages (Amazon.com) and you’ll see others asking if it will fit their exact vehicle type and year.
Sometimes people ask questions you want to know and they’ve already been answered!
Bottom line – Getting the right size isn’t difficult even though it may seem like it. There’s more than enough options available and more times than not you’ll know if it will fit your vehicle just by doing a quick search on the official product page.
FEATURES
I’ve discovered that truck bed tents possess similar features to each other and makes it difficult to know why a specific tent stands out from the crowd.
In this article I’ve placed the key features under my descriptions so you know EVERYTHING it offers, and it’ll help you make a better informed decision.
Keep in mind: All tents here are going to do well in rain and wind. They strap onto the vehicle itself (to handle extreme winds) and not into the ground (where it’s more prone to ripping out of the ground in a strong gust of wind).
They are very waterproof and you’ll have no issues with rain getting in.
Now that all the boring stuff is out of the way, lets get into the good stuff!
What is a Truck Bed Tent?
Simply put it is a tent that sleeps a small number of people that pitches and secures at the top of your truck bed.
People have been creating their own shelters on truck beds for many years; companies have caught onto this trend and come up with the “truck bed tent”.
They provide both positives and negatives, but here’s everything you’ll get out of your tent.
- Extra warmth because you’re not sleeping on the cold ground
- More safety from critters
- More comfort
- Safety from flash floods and rain splashes
- Extra safety from storms and strong winds
- The ability to leave suddenly if need be (everything is on the back of the truck already)
- And more
There are lots of brands and many designs available, however, not all will perform as you want to which is why thorough research is needed to discover the true quality.
I’ve done the ground work and found the ones ONLY worth purchasing.
The Negatives of Pitching Tents in the Back of Your Truck
As with all good things, there is going to be some negatives.
These include:
- You’re limited to small sizes
- Some are designed for specific trucks only
- Few companies design them
- Some have no bottom so you literally sleep on the truck bed unless you have a mattress
But of course it is up to you to decide whether or not a truck tent is right for you.
If you enjoy the positives so far and the negatives don’t phase you or you think you can handle them, then continue and see which one catches your eye 🙂
1. Napier Enterprises BACKROADZ SUV TENT
One of the more popular truck tents is the Napier Enterprises BACKROADZ SUV TENT.
This one actually includes a floor covering so you’re not sleeping on the cold bed of your truck and is fast and easy to setup.
The 4 large mesh windows provide outside views during the day, safety from mosquitoes with the rain fly removed and cross-flow ventilation.
The full-coverage rain fly keeps out all rain and ensures safety even in a downpour.
The doors storm flap can be left open or closed – you either choose privacy or air flow.
Key features
- 4 large windows
- Large mesh door
- Sewn-in floor
- Ample ventilation
- Door storm flap
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person.
- Weight: 14.2 pounds
- Peak height: 5.5 feet
2. Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent
The Guide Gear takes the whole “camper” term to a new level and experience.
It pitches in one minute so you can be get setup and ready to relax asap, which is good if you arrive at your campsite late.
It’s made with high quality materials, it’s has top-notch construction and amazing ventilation.
This truck tent also features a sewn-in floor so there’s no need to clean your bed prior to use, a large interior with plenty of head space and 2 storage pockets.
The large door makes entry and exit a breeze and there’s even 2 large windows on each side for outside views and cross-flow ventilation.
Fiberglass poles and tension straps anchor to the vehicle so you have awesome protection from strong winds.
Key features
- 1 large D-door
- 2 large windows
- 2 interior storage pockets
- Sewn-in floor
- Heightened ceiling
- Easy setup (4 poles total)
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Peak height: 5.2 feet
3. Kodiak Canvas Mid Size 5-6ft Truck Bed Tent
Taking on a more aesthetic and durable appearance is the Kodiak Canvas Mid Size 5-6ft Truck Bed Tent.
The 3/4-inch steel framing and “clamp-on” rails provide immaculate storm protection and a long lifespan.
It has a tunnel design to maximize space as much as possible and a tall center height for easy maneuverability.
It has a built-in cab access feature and 5 total windows for the best outside views and ventilation.
There is no floor but makes up for it with the flawless construction and protection it provides.
Key features
- Sturdy steel tube framing
- Clamp-on rails
- 2 interior storage pockets
- Built-in cab access
- Tunnel shape design
- Tall center height
- 5 windows
- Large door
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Peak height: 5 feet
4. SPORTZ CAMO TRUCK TENT
The SPORTZ CAMO TRUCK TENT is aesthetically pleasing as it takes on the appearance of branches, twigs and leaves.
It features a patented sewn-in floor, a heightened ceiling for getting changed and moving around easily and multiple venting options.
Ventilation consists of a large mesh screen door and 2 large windows that include rain fly vents for continued air flow during light rain.
Freely access the trucks cab for extra storage as the built-in design allows for it.
There is a optional room divider if you’re not comfortable sleeping next to your camping buddy.
A large awning covers the entrance of the door for a place to sit out of rain and sunshine.
Key features
- Camo design
- Patented sewn floor
- Increased ceiling height
- 2 rain fly vents
- 1 large door
- Optional room divider
- Rear cab access
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Peak height: 5.6 feet
5. DAC Full – Size Truck Tent
The DAC tent is a little different but still holds its place within this list, as it only fits a vehicle with a window which raises up and out.
This allows the vehicle to convert into a complete camping unit. It’s just a matter of placing the tent over the opening.
The plastic coated hooks attach to the wheels and the shockcords keep the tent tight to the truck, ready to tackle strong winds.
The 2 no-see-um windows create good views of the outdoor world and a well ventilated tent even at nighttime.
The door panel folds up and ties back for extra ventilation when you need it and the 2-way zipper system creates easy entry/exit.
Key features
- No-see-um screen material
- 2-way zippers
- Easy setup
- Door tie-backs
- Privacy options
- Polyester coating
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Peak height: vehicle roof height
6. Leoneva Portable Outdoor Full Size Short Bed
The beautifully-finished nylon buckles are designed to not scratch the trucks coating; designed for durability and water-resistance.
All seams are factory sealed so no additional waterproofing is needed and the heavy duty straps allow the tent to stay standing in strong winds.
It is insanely fast and easy to setup and one of the few truck bed tents designed for convenience and flexibility.
It’s good for family camping trips, fishing, hunting and off-roading
It’s available in 2 sizes: 5.5 feet and 6.5 feet, has a neutral baby blue color and a massive door for simple entry and exit.
There is NO mesh material, however, it more than makes up for this negative by being so easy to setup with maximum durability and convenience.
Key features
- Large door
- Neutral color
- Protective heavy-duty zippers and buckles (won’t scratch vehicles coating)
- Factory sealed seams
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: Unknown
- Peak height: 5.5 feet
7. Rightline Gear Bed Tent
Some might look at this tent and say having no floor is a negative.
I say it’s a huge bonus as it allows the tent to be setup without removing gear from the truck bed!
The Rightline Gear also features protective heavy duty straps and nylon buckles (prevents paint from scratching).
The color-coded poles make for an easy/quick setup every time and all seams are factory sealed, making it ready-to-go out of the box.
It features maximum ventilation thanks to the large mesh door, 2 mesh windows and mesh roof for stargazing or sky viewing during the day.
There are 2 internal storage pockets, a lantern hook for an even glow of light throughout and glow-in-the-dark zipper pulls.
This tent is on the more popular side for truck bed tents and received a good reputation from the camping community.
There’s plenty of sizes available so you’ll have no trouble finding the right fit for your truck.
Key features
- 1 large mesh door
- 2 mesh windows
- Stargazing ceiling
- Floorless design
- Heavy duty straps and buckles
- Color-coded poles
- Factory sealed seams
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: varies with sizes
- Peak height: 5.2 feet
8. Napier Outdoor Sportz Truck Tent – Compact Bed
The Napier Outdoor Sportz Truck Tent is good for a large number of activities, which include: outdoor goods shop, tailgate party, overnight camping trip and more.
It features a super durable polyester fabric which is designed to resist large amounts of rain.
It sleeps 2 people and sets up in a fast amount of time.
It straps to the truck for a secure fit and stands up against strong winds with ease.
There is a large door for easy entry/exit and an awning over the door for protection against sun and rain.
Sadly there isn’t much information regarding this tent, however, it’s received enough reviews to fit this list.
It’s solid as a rock and easy to assemble!
Key features
- Large door awning
- Large mesh door
- Easy assembly
- Strong and durable design
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Peak height: 5.6 feet
9. Sportz Truck Tent Blue/Grey
Taking on a more aesthetic appearance is the Sportz Truck Tent Blue/Grey.
It sleeps a total of 2 people, has a patented sewn-in floor in case you’re after a more luxury feel and a large rear access panel for entering the trucks cab.
Ventilation consists of a large entry door (screen material), 2 mesh windows and side vents to further air flow and battle condensation as much as possible.
The large awning protects you from the sun and rain and attaches to the tailgate so no guide ropes are needed.
It’s quick and easy to setup thanks to the color-coded poles (sets up in 10 minutes) and includes strap protectors to stop unnecessary scratches to your truck.
The tall center height allows campers to stand up, walk around and get changed without feeling squished.
A free gear loft sits at the roof for additional storage when you need it.
Key features
- Color-coded poles
- 2 mesh windows
- 1 large entrance door
- Large shade awning
- Tall center height
- Rear cab access panel
- Sewn-in floor
- Side vents
- Strap protectors
- Ceiling gear loft
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 21 pounds
- Peak height: 5.6 feet
10. SPORTZ AVALANCHE TRUCK TENT
The SPORTZ AVALANCHE TRUCK TENT sleeps 2 people, includes an interior pocket and 2 vents for battling condensation.
It features a large mesh entrance and 2 windows, both with mesh material for increased air flow and the ability to stay protected from bugs when the tent is open.
The sewn-in floor means you don’t have clean the truck bed, the rain fly can be removed for outside viewing and the strong poles keep the tent standing in high winds.
It features a neutral color and a large door to make entry and exit a breeze.
The 5.6 center height allows campers to stand up and walk around without feeling cramped.
There isn’t much reviews or feedback for this tent and has a high price tag, however, it’s certainly durable with a solid construction!
Key features
- Sewn-in floor
- 2 mesh windows
- 1 large mesh door
- 1 interior pocket
- 2 vents
- Durable construction
- Solid steel poles
- Tall center height
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 18 pounds
- Peak height: 5.6 feet
11. Milliard Truck Tent | Standard 6.5ft Bed
The Milliard Truck Tent is super simple to setup and has an easy-to-read instruction manual.
It features a sewn-in floor so dirt on the truck bed will not be a problem and the rain fly stops water from getting inside.
This can be removed hot nights for continued air flow thanks to the 4 mesh windows and large mesh entrance, which can be closed for privacy.
The material is actually much more durable than what other truck tents offer, as it’s a super quality ripstop grade.
The lantern hook allows you to hang a lantern and receive an even glow of light throughout and the storage pockets keep your valuables safe and close at hand.
Key features
- High grade ripstop fabric
- Strong seams
- Clear instruction manual
- Sewn-in floor
- Lantern hook
- Internal storage pocket
- 1 mesh door with storm flap
- 4 mesh windows with privacy closures
Specifications
- Capacity: 2-person
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Peak height: Unknown
More Information (And My Recommendation)
Sadly your options are extremely limited when it comes to truck bed tents.
The demand isn’t so high that all manufacturers are going to jump into this market, however, at least we have some tents available.
And if you’re a big outdoorsman who loves taking taking your truck camping, you’ll absolutely fall in love with one of these.
They’re much different than traditional tents because there is no ground tarp needed, no stakes or guy lines.
Attach the tent to the vehicle and it’ll hold strong in the wind.
The tent that stands out the most is the Kodiak Canvas Mid Size 5-6ft Truck Bed Tent.
How I Came to My Final Decision
So far these are the only truck tents worth mentioning.
The others are low quality and not up to par with my standards.
I came to my final decision by searching all available and putting the only one with good reviews and feedback in my list.
The Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent is one of the most expensive ones on this list, however, the amount of features it offers, the quality and durability puts it ahead of the competition.
Not to mention that it’ll last longer than the rest!
Ask me anything in the comments below. I’m open for discussion!
I thought all the truck bed tents look really cool and you have gone through them in good detail for people to make a decision, if there looking to purchase one. The kodiak tent that you have mentioned to be ahead of the competition, definitely looks a well made and a neat looking tent.
It’s one of the best when it comes to strength, weatherproof and value for money. You’ll get years of good performance even with frequent use as it has a high lifespan. Thanks for the comment.
Wow these are so cool.
Thanks for the detailed discussion on these. I think I’m gonna give this a try the next time we go camping
You should really give them a try, as they offer benefits traditional tents don’t offer. You never know if you’ll truly like them unless you try, right?
Perfect range and the prices on Amazon are really engaging! My wife and I are planning to go camping in September and I was looking for such a comparison. Thanks a million, Brandon!
No worries Simon. I’m glad you found my article before your trip.
Hey Brandon,
Man, I’ve really enjoyed visiting your site, because camping and “roughing it” is very near and dear to my heart! Your site is incredible, a great niche, very well done, complete, and flows really well. And, you’ve been around for a while! I’ve been thinking about buying a pickup to knock around in, and if I do I’ll be in touch with you to buy a tent.
I’ve camped all my life, not as frequently these days, because not many people my age (71 years old)are interested in roughing it, if you know what I mean? Hah! I’ve camped, particularly backpacked camping, all over this country. My favorite spot was up Sheep”s Mountain near Telluride, Colorado, at 12,000 feet on this high basin, where there was always this herd of Elk numbering in the thousands, and Big Horn sheep, who called this mountain their home. Every Summer for many years, my family and I would take our 4-wheel drive up as far as we could drive it, park it, and backpack up the elk trails to the basin, with our backpacking individual tents and sleeping bags, which had a spring-fed small lake, and camp there for a week, living on fresh Rainbow Trout caught w/ flyrod and flies right out of the lake, and black squirrels and Doves I killed with my 22 rifle, all cooked on a spit an open fire. I truly miss those wonderful days.
Those are some kind words Terry and I’m happy to know you’ve had a great life of being in the outdoors. I want to get out there more often so I create endless memories for my family and I because at the end of the day that’s what it is all about.
Thanks for sharing your story, it was a blast to read 🙂
Excellent comparison review and great information. I actually own the Kodiak! We take an annual New Year’s trip and I can’t stand sleeping on the ground. I just pop my air mattress in there and I am good to go! Thanks for the great information!
The Kodiak is certainly amazing and the strongest one on this list, hands down!
Damn I don’t have a truck but these are pretty cool…definitely going to convince my friends with trucks to buy one of these. Thanks for sharing, will definitely be back to your site!
I’m sure when they see how easy they are to setup and how COOL they are to use, it won’t take much convincing hahaha.
Good day to you Will 😀
I used to camp a lot when travelling to tennis tournaments around the country, I didn’t even know they had these kinds of tents until now. I wish these were available those days, it would have made life a whole simpler! Great article mate!
I agree. Well thanks to technology we can experience the thrill of sleeping on the back of a truck bed but WITHOUT getting eaten by mosquitoes throughout the night and worrying about getting rained on, lol.
I and my partner love camping but I just had to take a look at your site that we came across by accident because we were not familiar with truck tents. What a great way to get around in and just be able to park up anywhere you want and camp for the night. We live in the UK and it just isn’t easy to find a decent place to park up for the night other than laybys which are not ideal, so this would be the ideal solution for people who have trucks. I will be bookmarking your site for future reference. Thanks for sharing.
Great article! I definitely know what tent my brother is getting for Christmas! The Kodiak looks like it will keep him and his kids warm and dry for fall camping.
Nice one Jenifer. That is a great tent and I know your brother will love it.
Hi Brandon,
Thanks for this great breakdown. It’s a big help in deciding which type of truck tent someone would want. I have a friend who owns one and really enjoys it. It offers her peace of mind knowing she’s off the ground, especially when she wants to camp in the mountains. It gets cold at night on the ground, lol.
Thanks again,
Suzanne
It really does and I think the truck bed tent market is only going to get bigger and better with more varieties. Hey, it’s only a matter of time anyway because when the community wants something, the manufacturers listen!
Hi Brandon
Thanks for this superbly laid out comprehensive guide comparing the different truck bed tents available and that qualify to be on your list. I will be able to point my friends to your site.
It was my pleasure Austin. I’m surprised there wasn’t more tents available, however, this is the small few that qualify for my list because they are so good.
Funny I was recently talking to my husband about camping at the local state park here in Maryland. These are great tents and keeps you off the ground which I’m all for LOL. I will let the husband know about these great shelter options for our upcoming camping trip.
Maryland? Amazing, I want to go there one day.
Yes, these tents keep you off the cold hard ground and onto something more stable when the wind picks up, as they are tied to the truck and not staked into the ground, making it VERY secure in strong winds.
I’ve always wondered how those truck bed tents worked. I like the sewn in bottom I think it would help keep things clean and dry.
I like the fact that you don’t need a campground to use them. You can pop them up wherever you’re at even if you were on a long road trip.
Which one would fit in an 8 ft bed the best?
I know, they are so well built and strong I can’t believe they’re not as popular as traditional tents.
The one that fits an 8 ft truck bed is the Rightline Gear Bed Tent. They offer a bunch of sizes fit for all types of trucks, you can’t go wrong if you go this route.
My dad is an avid camper and one of these would be a great idea for his pickup! great article, I really like the Kodiak.
Cheers Robert. Everyone seems to like that tent, probably because it’s so damn strong and waterproof.
I really like the look of those tents and the fact that they are so easy to put up and take down as well as being away and safe from critters and protected from water. I’d definitely go for one that’s more durable, otherwise you’d be forking out more money again soon after, when having to buy another one.
I have to agree with you on that one Petra, going expensive doesn’t seem like a good idea at the start but when it lasts a long time and you get your moneys worth down the line, it pays for itself eventually.