For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a versatile and cost-effective camping solution, the truck bed tent offers an intriguing option. This review explores a popular model, the Napier Backroads truck bed tent, after extensive use in a variety of challenging conditions, from cold, rainy, and windy weather to full sun.
Setup: Quick and Mostly Painless
Setting up this truck bed tent typically takes around 10 minutes. Most users find the process to be straightforward and relatively quick. The most efficient method involves anchoring the tent to the truck bed first, then proceeding as you would with a traditional ground tent.
A minor point to note involves securing the front of the tent. This requires maneuvering three elastic straps under the tailgate and buckling them on the other side. While this step can be a bit fiddly and requires some patience, it’s generally considered a minor inconvenience rather than a significant difficulty. Overall, the setup time and effort are comparable to that of a standard ground tent.
Pros: Value, Versatility, and Comfort
The primary advantage of this truck bed tent is its exceptional value. While options like rooftop tents and bed caps offer different benefits, they come with a significantly higher price tag, often costing thousands of dollars. This truck bed tent, however, can be purchased for around $114 to $184, depending on your truck bed size, offering an accessible way to get your sleeping space off the ground and utilize your truck’s existing space. Its durability over several years of use further solidifies its great value.
Key benefits include:
- Portability: Weighing only 16 lbs, it packs down compactly, taking up minimal space in your vehicle.
- No Truck Modification: It requires no permanent alterations to your truck, making it a hassle-free addition.
- Dual Functionality: Your truck can serve as a rugged overlanding base camp for the weekend and then seamlessly transition back to being your daily driver during the week.
- Spacious Comfort: Even with a 5’7″ short bed, the tent extends to utilize the full length of the tailgate, comfortably accommodating a queen-size air mattress with room to spare for gear. Taller individuals will find ample space to stretch out.
- Ventilation and Weather Resistance: Equipped with two large side windows and a smaller rear window, all with mosquito netting, it provides excellent cross-breeze for warm weather. These windows also offer crucial ventilation when using a heater in colder conditions. The tent has proven robust against rain, high winds, and cold temperatures, keeping occupants dry and comfortable.
- Enhanced Privacy: Camping in a truck bed tent can offer more secluded campsite options, especially during off-peak seasons or less desirable weather, which often leads to greater privacy.
Cons: Minor Considerations
While the advantages are numerous, there are a couple of minor drawbacks to consider:
- Paint Contact: In very high winds, the side of the tent can rub against the truck’s paint, potentially causing light swirls or scratches. This can be mitigated by placing a soft barrier between the tent and the truck, or by avoiding camping in extreme wind.
- Vehicle Immobile: Once the tent is set up, your truck effectively becomes your sleeping quarters, meaning it cannot be driven for the duration of your trip. While daily setup and takedown is an option, many users opt to bring an alternative mode of transportation, such as a bicycle, for local excursions.
Alternatives: Rooftop Tents and Bed Caps
For those exploring other options, rooftop tents and bed caps offer different levels of convenience and “cool factor,” though at a significantly higher price point. Rooftop tents can be set up and taken down very quickly, which is ideal after long drives. Bed caps allow for pre-setup sleeping arrangements before even hitting the road. Each alternative has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, but the truck bed tent remains a strong contender for its balance of features and affordability.
Conclusion: A Solid Purchase for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Napier Backroads truck bed tent stands out as an excellent budget-friendly option for both casual camping and overlanding adventures. Its ease of use, robust performance in various weather conditions, and exceptional value make it a highly recommended purchase for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors without a significant financial investment. It provides a fun, comfortable, and practical way to elevate your camping experience.