Introduction
The Overland Expo, a mecca for adventure travel enthusiasts, is where innovation meets exploration. Every year, this gathering showcases the latest and greatest in overlanding gear, vehicles, and, of course, truck campers. The twenty seventeen Overland Expo was no exception, a vibrant display of ingenuity and craftsmanship that left attendees inspired and ready to hit the open road. Among the myriad offerings, certain truck campers consistently drew crowds, capturing attention with their blend of ruggedness, comfort, and cutting-edge features.
Truck campers hold a special appeal for overlanders. Their compact footprint, compared to larger RVs, allows for navigating challenging terrain and accessing remote locations. They offer a self-contained living space, providing shelter, cooking facilities, and sleeping quarters wherever the adventure leads. The ability to detach the camper and use the truck independently is another major advantage, offering flexibility for day trips and exploring local areas.
This article delves into the highlights of the twenty seventeen Overland Expo, specifically spotlighting the top ten truck campers that truly impressed. Our selections are based on a combination of factors: innovative design, exceptional build quality, standout features, and overall value proposition. Prepare to be inspired as we explore these adventure-ready rigs that exemplify the spirit of overlanding.
Criteria for Selection
Before we dive into the list, let’s briefly outline the criteria used to select these standout truck campers. Our focus centered on:
- Innovation and Design: Did the camper introduce new concepts or unique solutions to common overlanding challenges? Was the design aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient?
- Durability and Build Quality: Could the camper withstand the rigors of off-road travel and extreme weather conditions? Were high-quality materials and construction techniques employed?
- Features and Amenities: Did the camper offer a comprehensive set of features that enhanced the overlanding experience, such as ample storage, efficient appliances, and comfortable living spaces?
- Overall Value and Functionality: Did the camper represent a good value for its price point? Did it effectively balance size, weight, and functionality to meet the needs of serious overlanders?
It’s important to remember that this is a curated list, reflecting our observations and the buzz surrounding these particular campers at the expo. Many other excellent truck campers were on display, and individual preferences will naturally vary.
Top Ten Truck Campers
Camper Number One: Host Mammoth Truck Camper
The Host Mammoth Truck Camper towered above the competition. This double-slide camper impressed with its spacious interior and luxurious amenities.
Key highlights include: A dry bath with a separate shower and toilet, a full kitchen with a large refrigerator and ample counter space, and a comfortable living area with a dinette and sofa.
The Mammoth impressed at the expo because it blurred the line between a truck camper and a small apartment, offering an unparalleled level of comfort for extended overland trips.
Camper Number Two: Lance Model 855S Truck Camper
Lance has a long-standing reputation for quality, and the Model eight fifty-five S exemplifies that commitment. This camper is well-suited for full-size short bed trucks.
Key features include: A dinette slide-out, a wet bath, and a fully equipped kitchen. Its lighter weight, compared to some of the larger campers, made it a popular choice.
The Lance impressed because it offered a great balance of features, build quality, and affordability, making it an accessible option for many overlanders.
Camper Number Three: Northern Lite Ten-Two EX CD Truck Camper
Northern Lite is known for its molded fiberglass construction, which provides exceptional durability and weather resistance. The Ten-Two EX CD is a popular choice for those seeking a four-season camper.
Key features include: A spacious layout, a wet bath, and ample storage. The molded fiberglass construction eliminates seams, reducing the risk of leaks.
The Northern Lite impressed at the expo due to its reputation for longevity and its ability to withstand harsh conditions.
Camper Number Four: Alaskan Eight-Point-Five Cabover Truck Camper
Alaskan Campers are legendary for their unique pop-up design. They feature hard sides that lower for travel and raise for camping. The Eight-Point-Five Cabover is a versatile option.
Key features include: A low profile for improved aerodynamics, a durable aluminum frame, and a comfortable living space when popped up.
The Alaskan impressed because of its classic design, proven reliability, and the ability to handle challenging terrain.
Camper Number Five: Four Wheel Campers Fleet Model Truck Camper
Four Wheel Campers are synonymous with off-road adventure. The Fleet Model is designed for mid-size trucks and prioritizes lightweight construction and durability.
Key features include: A pop-up roof, a minimalist interior, and a focus on functionality. It’s ideal for those who want to travel light and access remote locations.
The Four Wheel Camper impressed because of its ruggedness, simplicity, and off-road capabilities. It embodies the spirit of minimalist overlanding.
Camper Number Six: Hallmark Milner Truck Camper
Hallmark Truck Campers are built with a focus on craftsmanship and customization. The Milner model is a versatile option that can be tailored to individual needs.
Key features include: A composite construction for reduced weight, a customizable floor plan, and a range of optional features.
The Hallmark impressed because of its high level of customization and its commitment to using innovative materials and construction techniques.
Camper Number Seven: Phoenix Custom Campers Ute Flatbed Truck Camper
Phoenix Custom Campers specializes in building bespoke truck campers to meet the specific requirements of each customer. Their Ute Flatbed camper exemplifies this approach.
Key features include: A custom-designed layout, a durable aluminum frame, and a wide range of available options.
The Phoenix impressed because of its unmatched level of personalization and its ability to create a truly unique overlanding solution.
Camper Number Eight: Bundutec USA BunduAwn Truck Camper
Bundutec USA is known for its innovative and rugged overlanding gear. The BunduAwn Truck Camper combines a traditional camper with their signature BunduAwn awning system.
Key features include: A spacious interior, a built-in BunduAwn, and a focus on outdoor living.
The Bundutec impressed because of its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor space, making it ideal for those who enjoy spending time in nature.
Camper Number Nine: Capri Camper Retreat Truck Camper
Capri Campers offer a range of lightweight and affordable truck campers. The Retreat model provides a comfortable and functional living space without breaking the bank.
Key features include: A simple and efficient layout, a lightweight construction, and a budget-friendly price point.
The Capri impressed because of its affordability and accessibility, making truck camping a reality for a wider range of people.
Camper Number Ten: AT Habitat Truck Camper
AT (Adventure Trailers) Habitat is a pop-up truck topper that transforms the bed of a pickup into a comfortable camping shelter. While not a traditional truck camper, it offered a compelling alternative for minimalists.
Key features include: A lightweight aluminum frame, durable canvas walls, and a spacious interior when popped up.
The Habitat impressed because of its simplicity, affordability, and ability to provide a comfortable and secure camping space.
Trends Observed at the Overland Expo
Several trends emerged from the truck campers displayed at the twenty seventeen Overland Expo. There was a clear push toward lighter materials, with manufacturers increasingly utilizing aluminum, composites, and fiberglass to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. Solar power integration was another prominent trend, with many campers featuring integrated solar panels and battery systems for off-grid power. We also observed a growing focus on off-grid capabilities, with campers equipped with features like water filtration systems, composting toilets, and high-capacity holding tanks. Lastly, customization was also gaining traction as manufacturers offer more bespoke option, catering to individual needs.
Conclusion
The twenty seventeen Overland Expo offered a captivating glimpse into the world of truck campers, showcasing a diverse range of options for adventure-seeking travelers. From luxurious double-slide models to rugged pop-up campers, there was something to appeal to every taste and budget. These top ten truck campers exemplify the innovation, craftsmanship, and spirit of adventure that define the overlanding community.
If you’re considering embarking on your own overlanding journey, exploring the world of truck campers is an excellent place to start. These versatile vehicles offer the freedom and flexibility to explore remote destinations, while providing a comfortable and self-sufficient base camp. Attending events like the Overland Expo is a fantastic way to see the latest models, meet manufacturers, and connect with fellow overlanders. As truck campers continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative designs and features emerge in the years to come, further enhancing the overlanding experience. The future of truck campers looks promising.
