Something about summer flips on a switch. With longer days and clearer nights, there’s no better time to load up your rig and hit the road for your next camping adventure.
Truck camping is one of the most practical (and fun) ways to answer that call of the wild. It gives you the freedom to explore off-grid—but you still get a solid place to sleep, cook, and stash your gear. While it doesn’t take much to get started, the right setup can make your truck camping experience a whole lot smoother.
In this guide, we highlight essential truck camping gear and accessories that turn your rig into a fully functional basecamp.
What Is Truck Camping?
Truck camping is a style of camping where your vehicle doubles as a campsite. This might mean sleeping in a rooftop tent, a truck bed camper, or on a mattress under the stars. It’s especially popular for those who value minimal setups and easier access to off-the-grid locations that an RV might struggle to reach.
Truck camping is different from overlanding, where the focus tends to be on the journey rather than enjoying the destination. This distinction is important because both excursions have different gear requirements.
Basic Truck Camping Supplies
Before we dive into the gear you’ll need for your truck, let’s start with a few basic camping supplies to take on your trip.
Truck Camping Packing Checklist
Here’s a truck camping packing checklist to get you started:
It’s important to note that this checklist is only a starting point. You may need to bring extra supplies depending on your lifestyle, planned activities, group size, or health requirements.
The Best Truck Accessories for Camping
No matter how minimal you want your setup to be, there is some fundamental equipment you can’t do without—from storage systems to off-road bumpers and more. Below, we explore essential truck camping accessories you’ll need on your next trip.
1. Thule Rooftop Tents
Truck camping doesn’t have to mean cramping up in the cab. With a rooftop tent like the Thule Tepui Ruggedized Autana 3, you can comfortably sleep above the ground and away from critters in a luxurious, roomy space. Constructed from durable 360g stitched fabric, this tent can accommodate up to 3 people and even includes sky panels for stargazing.
2. Rough Country Portable Electric Refrigerator
Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice convenience or comfort. With the Rough Country Portable Refrigerator, you can enjoy the great outdoors and keep your drinks, frozen treats, and cooking necessities cool for up to 24 hours per charge.
This convenient electric cooler offers 50 liters of storage space and a durable shockproof design. It also has wheels and a telescoping handle, so it’s easy to take with you. And if you’re in the mood for a midnight snack, a built-in LED light will illuminate the way to satisfied cravings.
Plus, the Rough Country Cooler Sliding Tray fits seamlessly in your truck bed so you can easily access your fridge whenever you need it—without the hassle of rummaging through all your gear.
3. DECKED Drawer Storage System
You’ll need a place to securely store and organize all those camping essentials we listed above. The last thing you want is all your supplies sliding around and rattling obnoxiously in the back while you’re driving out to the campsite. Plus, it pays to have everything accessible and in the right place exactly when you need it—especially safety gear.
One of the best ways to keep your truck camping gear organized is with a DECKED two drawer storage system. This heavy-duty drawer system is 100% American-made using the toughest High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and steel. Each drawer can hold up to 200 lbs. and slides out smoothly for easy access, so you can stay efficient and clutter-free.
4. DECKED CargoGlide Truck Bed Slide
The CargoGlide truck bed slide by DECKED is heavy-duty, convenient, and perfect for camping. It’s made right here in the United States using:
- American aluminum and heavy-gauge, powder-coated steel
- Industrial grade ¾” marine plywood
- Impact-resistant thermoplastic top sheet
The CargoGlide can hold up to 2,200 lbs. of camping gear and works seamlessly with the DECKED Drawer System. Whenever you need to get something from your truck, you won’t have to worry about climbing in or digging around for gear. Buttery-smooth roller bearings and an auto-stop handle let you easily access anything you need.
5. BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover
A high-quality tonneau cover helps protect your gear from weather, theft, and prying eyes without impacting your truck’s aerodynamics. The BAKFlip MX4 is a hard-folding and lockable tonneau cover that safeguards your gear while still allowing for full bed access. Its sleek matte finish resists scratches, UV rays, and fingerprints, so it’s great for truck campers who value both form and function.
6. Hammerhead Offroad Bumpers
Truck camping often means going off the beaten path to get to the perfect remote spot. However, sometimes it also means dealing with unpredictable road conditions and even potential safety hazards.
An offroad bumper like a Hammerhead Frontier Series Bumper helps protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle from the grittier side of taking the scenic route. Engineered from high-strength steel, it adds rugged protection against rocks, brush, or accidental bumps. Plus, it’s compatible with winches and light bars to give you an extra safety and visibility boost.
Shop the Best Gear for Truck Camping at Campway’s
Every great truck camping trip starts with the right gear and a vehicle that’s up to the challenge. Since 1970, Campway’s has been a leading retailer of premium truck accessories on the West Coast. We have everything you need to start prepping for your next camping adventure—from drawer systems and comfortable rooftop tents to rugged bumpers and more.
Shop online today to get everything you need delivered straight to your doorstep, or find a location near you to browse our selection in person.
