Truck Camping Essentials
Camping is the Colorado pastime, but camping can take on many forms. If you are in between the die hard backpacker and the RV glamper, truck camping might be the option that you have been looking for. Camping out of your truck bed means less set up and tear down, no sleeping on the ground, and the ability to get your rig in and out of smaller and more remote camp sites. If you are looking to turn your pickup into the ultimate weekend camping set up, consider some of these options to get you started.
#1. Truck Cap - Covering the bed of your truck is the first step. It’s like making sure there is a roof on your house. S-Cargo Truck Caps offers caps from top cap manufacturers; SnugTop, Century, Jason Truck Caps, and RSI SmartCap. Picking the right cap for your usage can be tricky, but the team at S-Cargo is happy to talk through options and features to help you select the perfect option for your truck camping needs.
#2. Platform - Once you are covered, it is time to think about your bed. A pad and sleeping bag right on the bed floor will work, but increasing your sleeping area by taking the wheel wells out of play and increasing your storage with drawers and cubbies can take your whole setup to the next level. If you are into DIY and weekend projects consider some of the awesome home built options on this round-up on our Pinterest page. If you are looking for a platform option that is ready-made for your specific truck, S-Cargo would be happy to set you up with a DECKED. DECKED has perfected the truck platform/drawer storage system. With a top capacity of 2000lbs and a storage capacity of 200lbs per drawer, the DECKED can handle all of your camping gear and then some. The top surface gives a wall to wall platform that makes a perfect area for a memory foam mattress. The drawers underneath mean you can keep your camping kit ready to go at all times and you won’t be sleeping with your axe and camp stove.
#3. Roof Racks - Let’s face it, some items are just not going in the bed of your truck, whether it’s a Tacoma with a 5’ bed or a Super Duty with an 8’ bed. The roof rack is your solution for kayaks, canoes, fly rods, mountain bikes, and so much more. When you add a simple rack, from a company like Rhino-Rack, Yakima, or Thule, you open a world of opportunities. The roof rack is your blank canvas, ready to take on your specific lifestyle and hobbies. S-Cargo stocks a range of roof racks, kayak carriers, bike racks, fly rod carriers, roof top boxes, baskets, awnings and more!
Those are the basics, and some items that S-Cargo would be happy to help you with, now here are some items that we love and think you will love too when you do take your truck out on your weekend getaways.
#1. Hammock - There might not be anything in the world more relaxing than laying in a good hammock, and adding a hammock to your camping set up will only take up about as much space as a roll of toilet paper. Our favorite versions are from Grand Trunk. We especially love that they offer an American made version. We would also recommend a good set of straps.
#2. Rumpl Blanket - Imagine your favorite blanket made out of your favorite down jacket. That is a Rumpl blanket. Comfortable, warm, and packable. You will love this thing so much that when you get home from camping, you will want to throw it on your couch to watch Netflix. While the throw size versions are awesome for sitting in your camp chair around the fire, we recommend the 2 Person Original Puffy Blanket.
#3. Awning - If you have taken our advice on a topper with a roof rack, the addition of an awning can really take your campsite to the next level. All day shade and sun protection and a better place to get out of the rain than climbing in the cab of your truck. If you are camping solo or with a partner, check out the Rhino-Rack Dome 1300. Ready to go all out and cover a large group? You can’t beat the Rhino-Rack Batwing Awning. S-Cargo keeps a variety of these awnings on hand at all times.
#4. Mini Projector - In recent years projector technology has gotten better, more affordable, and more portable. Just search mini projector on your preferred online shopping site and you will find dozens of projectors under the $100 mark. At the end of the day, throw up a sheet, and hook up your phone to watch your favorite movie. Toss a Jiffy Pop over the campfire and it will be a sure fire hit, especially if you are camping with kids.
#5. Cooler - A cooler is probably already a part of your camping setup, but if you are looking to treat yourself with an upgrade, here are a couple of cooler options that we love. Colorado company, Otterbox, isn’t just your go-to phone case anymore, they are also a killer option for a top quality cooler. Check out their Venture series for a hard side cooler or their Trooper series for a soft side option. In recent years, LEER has expanded into the cooler and accessory world as well. Their LEER Cooler is no joke. 25 quart capacity, bear proof latching system, keeps items cold for up to 132 hours, and it’s made in the USA! S-Cargo keeps these on hand in the showroom.
Ready to get out there? We’re happy to help with anything that you might need to turn your truck into the ultimate camping rig, but remember, it’s not about the vehicle or the gear, it’s about the memories, because every drive is an adventure!