Using a truck bed tent is one of the best ways to escape from the bugs and debris on the floor. Manufacturers design their tents to fit most standard sized truck beds, which makes them easy to install whilst out on your adventures.
The best truck tent is the Kodiak Canvas Tent, which has a tunnel shaped design and an extra tall 5 feet ceiling height to expand the usable space.
Truck bed tents are available in several different designs to best suit your requirements. From additional windows to enjoy the view or a more simplistic design that provides maximum privacy, there is a wide variety of options available.
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Truck Tent Comparison
| Truck Tent | Windows | Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| Kodiak Canvas | 5 | 5.5 x 6.5 Foot |
| Rightline Gear 110730 | 2 | Multiple |
| Sportz Truck Tent | 2 | Multiple |
| NAPIER Backroadz | 4 | Multiple |
| Guide Gear | 2 | 5.25 x 6.58 Feet |
| DAC Full Size | 2 | N/A |
| Milliard Standard | 2 | 6.5 Foot |
The size of the truck tent is one of the most important factors because the larger options usually means that it’s more comfortable. Most brands will offer a range of sizes but the design can further increase the size by sitting over the bed of the truck.
The invention of these tents for your truck allows you to be more comfortable whilst camping and use your truck more efficiently whilst out on the road.
Below is a list of the best truck bed tents that are designed for most standard truck bed sizes and are easy to install.
The Best Truck Bed Tent
1. Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent
The Kodiak Canvas truck bed tent is the best truck bed tent on the market and stands out thanks to its impressive durability and innovative construction.
This tent is designed to really maximize the space available in your truck bed. It’s five feet tall and it also extends slightly over the end of the bed. Another great benefit of this tent is that is has five windows for ventilation, light and looking out at the views.
Other features of the Kodiak Canvas Tent include:
- Constructed of a 100% cotton duck canvas
- Watertight yet breathable
- Suitable for most trucks
- Tunnel shaped design
- 5 feet ceiling height
- 2 storage pockets for all your gear
- 3/4 inch thick steel tube frame
- Suitable for all-season use
Unique features such as the covered entry that allows rain to flow off the top easily makes this truck bed tent really standout from the crowd.
The Kodiak Canvas truck bed tent is a premium option but it’s built to the highest of standards with many unique features. It’s worth noting that although it’s suitable for all-weather usage, the brand state that it isn’t designed for heavy snow accumulations.
Check it Out2. Rightline Gear Truck Tent
Unlike many of the alternatives, this truck bed tent has a floorless design, which means you don’t have to remove any gear during the installation.
Other features of the Rightline Gear Truck Tent include:
- Multiple sizes available
- Easy to install with color coded poles
- Water resistant with tape sealed seams
- Sky view vent for looking at the stars at night
- Private mesh panel windows
- Heavy duty straps and nylon buckles
- 1 year manufacturers warranty
- Made in the USA
This truck bed tent by Rightline provides truly great quality and unlike other tents of similar value, it won’t break the bank. It has been designed to provide the best of experience whilst camping and is reinforced to keep water and debris out.
Check it Out3. Sportz Pickup Truck Bed Tent
The SportZ Truck Tent is relatively roomy option that sleeps two adults and is available in 6 different sizes. A unique feature of this tent is the awning, which attaches to the tailgate and can be setup anywhere for shade or shelter.
This truck bed tent stands out from its competitors because of its sewn in floor, which provides extra comfort and keep the rain or debris out.
Other features of the SportZ Truck Tent include:
- Blue and grey design with an awning
- Color coded sleeves and pole system
- Large rear access panel
- 5.6 feet of head room
- Two mesh windows and side vents
- Strap protectors and carrying bag included
Overall, it’s an affordable truck bed tent that’s easy to setup and provides many intuitive features for camping in comfort. The SportZ Truck Tent is an excellent all-round option that won’t disappoint.
The brand also offer several optional extras to go with this kit such as a larger awning, additional tent attachment and much more.
Check it Out4. Napier Backroads Truck Bed Tent
The Napier Backroad truck bed tent is one of the cheapest options that is actually worth the investment. It’s designed to fit most standard sized pick-up trucks with four sizes to choose from to best suit your requirements.
It’s a full floor design that has a large tent area with up to 5.6 feet of headroom, which allows you to easily move around inside of the tent.
Other features of the Napier Backroad include:
- Four large windows
- Sewn in floor
- 5 different sizes available
- Color coded poles and sleeves
- 5.6 foot of headroom
- Full rainfly to prevent moisture buildup
- Storage bag included
- Includes a one year warranty
The Napier Backroad is another affordable truck bed tent that is easy to setup and provides plenty of room for camping. It has a durable design with a sewn in floor that is designed to keep you dry and clean from the truck bed.
Check it Out5. Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent
The brand state that you can deploy this truck bed tent in a matter of minutes and it only has a total of 4 poles that need setting up.
Other features of the Guide Gear Tent include:
- Green and black design
- Rainfly to keep you dry in wet weather
- Suitable for two adults
- Two mesh windows for ventilation
- Large D-shaped door
- Lightweight and easy to store in the included carrying bag
- Four pole installation
The Guide Gear Truck Tent offers the best value for the money and is perfect for first time truck tent campers. It’s a fraction of the cost compared to many of the premium options but still includes most of the desirable features.
Check it Out6. DAC Full Size Truck Tent
The DAC Truck Tent has a unique design that fits to vehicles with a rear window that raises up and out. It also must have a tailgate that is equal to or greater than 58 inches wide, which allows for it to extend to it’s full length. It’s important to note that it will not fit vehicles with an external rear mounted spare tire.
To install this truck bed tent, you simply lower the tailgate and tie the shock cords to the wheel well, which will keep it upright and secure.
Other features of the DAC Truck Tent include:
- Elastic shock cords with plastic coated hooks
- Two mesh windows
- Inverted “T” layout
- Two way zipper for easy entry
- Tailgate must be equal to or greater than 58 inches wide
- Fits over carrier racks or air foil
- Included carrying bag for storage
- Tan roof and blue walls
It’s an excellent alternative to the standard truck tent and is the best option for those with a cab. The DAC tent also offers relatively good value for the money when compared to similar designed tents.
Check it Out7. Milliard Truck Bed Tent
Another cheap truck tent is by the Milliard brand and its been designed to fit a standard 6.5 foot truck bed. It’s the brand new and improved design that features a far more durable ripstop grade material, which is designed for all-weather conditions.
A unique feature of the construction of this tent is the lantern hook, which allows you to add light or hang other items from inside of the tent.
Other features of the Milliard Truck Tent include:
- Fits any standard truck with a bed measuring 6.5 feet
- Sewn in floor that protects against dirt
- Integrated lantern hook
- Strong ripstop grade material
- Mesh windows for ventilation
- Includes a storage carrying bag
- Rainfly that keeps you dry
The Milliard Truck Tent is a cheap yet high quality option that is designed to be long lasting. Compared to similar priced alternatives, it’s far more heavy duty but the main drawback is that it’s only available in a single size.
Check it OutTruck Bed Tent Buying Guide
Truck bed tents are an incredible innovation in the world of camping and outdoor sports. They allow you to stay more comfortable and use your vehicle efficiently while out on the road.
If you haven’t yet tried a truck bed tent, it’s a great investment that will make your outdoor travels much easier and more fun. With the recent trend of truck tents camping becoming so popular, there are several brands releasing truck bed tents.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding truck bed tents.
Size
The first thing to consider when shopping for your truck bed tent is the size of the product. Every truck model is a different size, so you’ll want something that fits the dimensions of your car. Of course, the more space you have, the more comfortable you are going to be, so in general, a larger tent is better. You should also pay attention to how many people the tent can comfortably sleep. Generally, truck bed tents can sleep at least two people.
Material
Another very important consideration to make when shopping for a truck bed tent is the material the tent is made out of. The tent should be made using a durable material that can withstand the natural wear and tear of traveling and camping.
The material should also protect against wind and water to keep you safe from the elements. Canvas is an excellent tent material, because it naturally provides these features.
However, it is typically more expensive than coated plastic, which is another popular truck bed tent material. A plastic works just as well when it’s been treated for waterproofing, but may not last quite as long.
Doors and Windows
Truck bed tents typically have several doors and windows to provide ventilation as well as better access and view. The size and placement of the doors and windows are helpful to look at when choosing a truck bed tent.
A large door makes the tent easy to get in and out of, and windows provide excellent ventilation in the summer. It’s also nice to be able to see out, particularly when you are camping in a beautiful location. However, you may want some privacy while you are camping as well. Many doors and windows zip open or closed to provide this.
Layout
Each truck tent has a different layout, and the one you choose will ultimately depend on your own preferences. Some tents have features that stick off the end of the truck bed to provide more room, while others have a higher ceiling but smaller floor area.
Ultimately, the layout you choose is up to you, as there are pros and cons to any design, but it’s helpful to get an idea of it before making a purchase.
Easy Setup
When you finally reach your camping destination, the last thing you want to do is fuss around with complicated frames and ties. A good truck tent should be quick and easy to set up, with simple instructions included with your purchase. The setup should be intuitive to understand, and you should be able to do it in minutes once you get the hang of it.
Quality of Frame
A good tent frame is made of light but durable materials that can withstand the elements without being too difficult to carry. Popular frame materials in order of their weight include fiberglass, aluminum, and steel.
Generally, aluminum provides the best middle ground between lightweight and durable. Fiberglass poles are very easy to carry around and move, but won’t be very resistant to wind. Steel poles stay in place in tough weather, but are very heavy.
You’ll also want to look at the layout of the frame and how it attaches to the back of your truck. It shouldn’t leave any scratches or dents on your truck at all.
Sewn-in Floor
One feature that many tents are now beginning to include is a sewn-in floor. This makes camping on the bed of your truck even more comfortable and secure. A sewn-in floor prevents water, bugs, and debris from getting in, and it adds an extra layer of fabric for comfort. Although not all tents have this feature yet, it’s a good one to look out for when you are doing your shopping.
Waterproof
The purpose of a tent is to provide shelter from the elements, so any good tent should be able to help you stay sheltered from the rain. In addition to waterproof material, you should also look for tents that have rainflys and awnings, which allow water to flow off the roof and away from the tent, keeping you dry. The seams of the tent should also be completely watertight to prevent anything from seeping in.
Straps
Truck bed tents are attached to your car using straps, and the quality of the straps is definitely something to look at when shopping. A thick but stretchy rope or cord will keep your tent securely attached to your car. You should also look at how many straps are available and where they lock onto your car to get an idea of how the setup process is going to work and how durable they will be.
Cab Access Panel
A unique feature to look out for if you like convenience is the cab access panel, which many truck bed tents are now starting to include. This allows you to connect your tent to the front of your car through the back window. The cab access panel is excellent if you need extra storage or simply want to grab something from the front of your car without having to go around.
Storage Pockets
Finally, many truck bed tents come with zip-up storage pockets for your convenience. These are great places to keep emergency items, like a first aid kit or extra camping gear, just in case something happens. A good storage pocket keeps things easily accessible while you are out on the road.
Conclusion
Truck bed camping is a huge new trend in the outdoor sports world, and if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s time to invest in a truck bed tent. A good truck bed tent provides unique convenience and comfort that you wouldn’t get from a normal tent, while still being durable and keeping you safe outdoors. These tents are an investment piece that are worth it for the avid camper.
The Kodiak Canvas is the best truck tent on the market. The superior canvas material provides ventilation and protection against both wind and water. It also is made using steel tubes that won’t budge even in the toughest weather. The unique design provides plenty of space as well, so you can really relax and enjoy your camping trip.
