The Overland Expo is a haven for adventurers, a sprawling showcase of the latest and greatest in overlanding gear and vehicles. Held annually in various locations across the United States, it draws thousands of enthusiasts eager to explore the possibilities of self-sufficient travel. While all types of vehicles and setups capture attention, one category consistently shines: truck campers. For many, the blend of off-road capability and comfortable living space offered by truck campers makes them the ideal choice for exploring remote corners of the world. The 2018 Overland Expo was no exception, offering a stunning array of truck campers, each designed to appeal to different needs and tastes.
This article rewinds the clock to the 2018 Overland Expo, highlighting ten of the most impressive truck campers on display. These selections were based on a combination of factors, including innovation in design, quality of construction, practical features for overlanding, and overall appeal to the discerning overlander. Prepare to be inspired by these mobile habitats that redefined adventure travel.
Lance Stands Out with its 650 Truck Camper
Lance has long been a respected name in the RV industry, and their 650 truck camper continued that tradition of excellence. Designed for short-bed pickup trucks, the Lance 650 offered a surprisingly spacious interior without sacrificing maneuverability. One of its standout features was the well-equipped kitchen, boasting a stainless steel sink, two-burner range, and a refrigerator with ample storage. The dinette provided a comfortable space for meals or relaxation, and converted into a sleeping area for additional guests. What made the Lance 650 particularly appealing was its focus on lightweight construction, allowing it to be paired with a wide range of trucks. Its build quality, combined with its thoughtful layout, made it a top contender at the 2018 Overland Expo. This camper stood out because it delivered a premium experience in a compact package, making it accessible to a broader range of overlanders.
Host Delivers Luxury with the Mammoth Truck Camper
For those seeking a truly luxurious overlanding experience, the Host Mammoth truck camper presented a compelling option. This triple-slide camper redefined what was possible in terms of space and amenities. The Mammoth featured a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed, and a full bathroom. It felt more like a small apartment than a camper. The build quality was exceptional, with attention to detail evident in every aspect of the design. The ample storage, advanced electrical systems, and high-end appliances made it well-suited for extended off-grid adventures. At the 2018 Overland Expo, the Mammoth turned heads with its sheer size and luxurious appointments. It demonstrated that overlanding didn’t necessarily mean sacrificing comfort and convenience.
Northern Lite Elevates with the 8-11 Truck Camper
Northern Lite is renowned for its durable, four-season truck campers, and the 8-11 model was a prime example of their expertise. Constructed from a two-piece molded fiberglass shell, the 8-11 offered exceptional strength and weather resistance. This construction method also minimized seams, reducing the risk of leaks. Inside, the 8-11 featured a well-designed layout with a comfortable dinette, a fully equipped kitchen, and a queen-size bed. The emphasis on durability and functionality made it a favorite among serious overlanders. The 8-11 was an excellent choice for those who planned to venture into challenging environments. Its rugged construction and thoughtful design, which were evident at the 2018 Overland Expo, made it a standout.
Arctic Fox Presents the Versatile 990 Truck Camper
Arctic Fox is another well-established name in the RV industry, and their 990 truck camper showcased their commitment to quality and innovation. The 990 was known for its spacious floor plan, comfortable amenities, and robust construction. It featured a well-equipped kitchen, a dinette that converted into a bed, and a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed. The 990 also boasted ample storage, both inside and out. At the 2018 Overland Expo, the Arctic Fox 990 impressed visitors with its attention to detail and its ability to provide a comfortable living space in a compact package. This camper offered a balance of comfort, durability, and value, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable overlanding platform.
Four Wheel Campers Showcases the Agile Hawk Truck Camper
Four Wheel Campers is synonymous with lightweight, pop-up truck campers, and the Hawk model exemplified their design philosophy. Designed for mid-size and full-size trucks, the Hawk offered a low profile for improved aerodynamics and off-road capability. The pop-up design allowed for a spacious interior when deployed, with ample headroom and ventilation. The Hawk was highly customizable, allowing owners to tailor the camper to their specific needs. Its lightweight construction and off-road prowess made it a favorite among adventure seekers. The Four Wheel Campers Hawk appealed to those who prioritized mobility and simplicity, making it a noticeable presence at the 2018 Overland Expo.
Cirrus Creates Comfort with the 820 Truck Camper
Cirrus truck campers are known for their modern design and innovative features, and the 820 model embodied that approach. The 820 featured a sleek, aerodynamic exterior and a stylish interior. One of its standout features was the Truma Combi furnace and hot water system, which provided efficient and reliable heating and hot water. The 820 also boasted a spacious wet bath, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable sleeping area. Its modern aesthetics and thoughtful features made it a popular choice for those seeking a contemporary overlanding experience. The Cirrus 820 was a breath of fresh air at the 2018 Overland Expo, demonstrating that truck campers could be both stylish and functional.
Bundutec USA Introduces the BunduCamp Truck Camper
Bundutec USA specializes in importing and modifying South African-style overlanding equipment, and the BunduCamp truck camper reflected that influence. Built with a rugged steel frame and durable canvas sides, the BunduCamp was designed to withstand the rigors of off-road travel. It featured a spacious sleeping area, a well-equipped kitchen, and ample storage. The BunduCamp also boasted a unique awning system that provided shade and shelter. Its rugged construction and African-inspired design made it a standout at the 2018 Overland Expo, appealing to those seeking a truly unique overlanding experience. This camper stood out due to its robust nature and its ability to handle even the toughest terrains.
Hallmark Offers the Refined Milner Truck Camper
Hallmark truck campers are known for their handcrafted quality and attention to detail, and the Milner model exemplified that approach. The Milner featured a spacious interior, a well-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable sleeping area. The emphasis on craftsmanship and durability made it a popular choice among discerning overlanders. The Milner was constructed with high-quality materials and featured a number of thoughtful touches, such as handcrafted cabinetry and premium appliances. This commitment to quality resonated with attendees at the 2018 Overland Expo. The Hallmark Milner offered a refined and comfortable overlanding experience.
Outfitter Presents the Rugged Apex 8 Truck Camper
Outfitter Manufacturing specializes in lightweight, hard-side truck campers, and the Apex 8 model was a prime example of their expertise. The Apex 8 featured a durable aluminum frame, composite walls, and a spacious interior. It came equipped with a well-equipped kitchen, a dinette that converted into a bed, and a comfortable sleeping area. The Apex 8 was also known for its ample storage and its ability to handle challenging terrain. Its rugged construction and lightweight design made it a popular choice for those seeking a capable and versatile overlanding platform. Showcased at the 2018 Overland Expo, The Outfitter Apex 8 was appealing to the adventure-minded individual.
Palomino Backpack Shines with the SS-1251 Truck Camper
Palomino Backpack truck campers offer a budget-friendly entry point into the world of overlanding, and the SS-1251 model provided a comfortable and functional living space. Designed for short-bed trucks, the SS-1251 featured a well-equipped kitchen, a dinette that converted into a bed, and a comfortable sleeping area. While it may not have had all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive campers on display, the SS-1251 offered a great value for the money. The Palomino Backpack SS-1251 was a practical option for those who were new to overlanding or who were looking for a budget-friendly camper. Making an appearance at the 2018 Overland Expo, The SS-1251 was a perfect fit for any new adventurer.
Reflecting on Truck Campers and the Overlanding Spirit
The 2018 Overland Expo showcased the incredible diversity and innovation within the truck camper market. From luxurious, triple-slide models to lightweight, pop-up designs, there was a truck camper to suit every need and budget. What was clear from the event was the growing demand for comfortable, capable, and self-sufficient overlanding vehicles. The truck campers on display reflected this trend, with many models featuring advanced electrical systems, ample storage, and durable construction. Overlanding is more than just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle, and the truck campers at the 2018 Overland Expo exemplified that spirit. The manufacturers who showcase their products are always making improvements. It is an ever evolving market.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the backcountry of North America or embarking on an international adventure, the truck campers highlighted in this article offer a glimpse into the possibilities. We encourage you to research further, visit dealerships, and perhaps even attend a future Overland Expo to experience these campers in person. And we want to know your thoughts! Which of these campers caught your eye? What features are most important to you in an overlanding vehicle? Share your thoughts and join the conversation. The best adventures are the ones we share!
