What Are Lightweight Shell Campers?
Lightweight shell truck campers are stripped-down camper units that attach to the bed of a pickup truck. Unlike full-featured truck campers, these shells offer a bare-bones design, typically including a sturdy frame, basic insulation, and optional customizations like windows or interior storage.
Key Features of Lightweight Shell Campers:
- Low Weight: Usually under 1,000 pounds, making them compatible with smaller trucks.
- Customizable Interiors: Users can add sleeping platforms, kitchenettes, or gear storage based on personal needs.
- Off-Road Friendly: Their lightweight design is perfect for off-road adventures where heavier setups may struggle.
- Affordable: They often cost significantly less than fully equipped campers.
Top Benefits of Lightweight Shell Campers
1. Fuel Efficiency
The reduced weight means better fuel economy compared to larger campers or RVs. This is particularly beneficial for long road trips or overlanding adventures.
2. Versatility
Lightweight shells are highly adaptable, fitting trucks of all sizes. From compact pickups to full-size models, these campers provide flexibility without overburdening your vehicle.
3. Ease of Installation
Many lightweight shell truck campers can be easily installed and removed, allowing you to use your truck for everyday purposes when not camping.
4. Durability
Built with robust materials like aluminum or fiberglass, these shells can withstand tough outdoor conditions, making them ideal for rugged terrains.
Customizing Your Lightweight Shell Campers
While lightweight shell campers come with a basic structure, you can easily customize them to suit your needs:
- Sleeping Arrangements: Add a foldable platform or mattress for comfortable rest.
- Storage Solutions: Install shelving or bins for organizing gear.
- Portable Kitchens: Include a compact propane stove or portable fridge for cooking.
- Solar Power: Attach solar panels to power lights, devices, or small appliances.
How to Choose the Right Lightweight Shell Campers
1. Truck Compatibility
Ensure the camper fits your truck’s bed size and payload capacity. Lightweight models are ideal for mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, or Nissan Frontier.
2. Budget
Shell campers range from $2,000 to $12,000 depending on features and materials. Determine your priorities to stay within your budget.
3. Adventure Needs
For off-road adventures, look for rugged, weatherproof models. If you’re sticking to campgrounds, prioritize comfort and space.
Why Lightweight Shell Truck Campers Are Perfect for Overland Enthusiasts
Lightweight shell campers offer a streamlined way to explore nature without the hassle of towing or the expense of a full-sized RV. Their customizable design and off-road capabilities make them an excellent choice for minimalists and adventurers alike.
If you’re ready to hit the road with a camper that’s both affordable and efficient, lightweight shell truck campers might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
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Camp King:
Camp King Industries’ Outback is not your typical canopy camper. From the premium Australian raw materials to the unrivaled design and convenience, the Outback stands apart in an increasingly crowded field.
Unmatched Strength. The Outback is fully TIG welded, premium powder-coated, and secured with a specialized Orlock riveting system making it one of the most structurally solid units out there. The full tent body is composed from Australian-Made Wax Convertor Coolabah Tear-stop Canvas AS2001.2.18.1987 (military grade). Look closely and you’ll find precision-engineered reinforcements throughout. Give any hatch door a tug and you won’t be met with the typical flimsy flex of canopy camper doors.
Super Comfort and Convenience. This canopy camper is designed to be set up or packed down in as little as 2 minutes. Yes, really! The Outback was made with adventure and convenience in mind featuring ample space for all of your bedding and a platform bed that lifts up to the heavens (no not angels, they’re pneumatic struts). Want to stay organized? Optional molle panels are available for each of the hatch doors. That, and our friends at Goose Gear have designed an Outback modular system to keep your life (and sanity) in good order.
Fun Facts: New 4” thick high density memory foam mattress – Ultra thick memory foam is great for side sleepers! Separate expander panel mattress can be used for a comfortable bench pad below. 10 mm closed-cell foam (water resistant) insulated roof and high-quality seals to prevent dust and water entry. Massive internal opening height allows for standing upright; that coupled with the pneumatic internal expander panel turns the Outback into a mobile office you can take anywhere. Optional Camp King crossbar system allows for carrying additional gear on top of the lid.
Available Fitments Include:
- Jeep Gladiator
- Toyota Tacoma (5ft bed; 2005-2023)
- Toyota Tundra (5.5ft bed; 2nd Gen)
- Ford F-150 (5.5ft bed)
World Class Warranty. 5 Years on Camp King workmanship, 5 years on the Canvas (deterioration and fading), and 1 year on incidentals such as latches, handles, and struts.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Antishanty:
The DWELL SHELL is not just a truck camper Shell; it’s a revolutionary off-road haven that seamlessly blends rugged hard-sided durability with comfort and innovation. Haul gear like a truck. Camp like a cabin.
A game-changer in pop-up light weight shell camper industry. Engineered with aircraft-grade aluminum, aluminum composite, and our new ThermoLiner insulation kit. There is no wood to rot or mold and no canvas to flap around, completely hard-sided, insulated walls. The DWELL SHELL is built to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions, ensuring durability and longevity. It also comes standard with a side plate to add your preferred A/C or heat source. Plus, with the built-in pass-through feature, you can access all your gear without ever having to leave the comfort and safety of your dwelling.
The top section doubles as a cargo box. The DWELL SHELL is fully lockable in camp mode and travel mode. The DWELL SHELL offers a multipurpose lower shell, with side access doors, MOLLE panels, and MOLLE cabinets.
“Engineered with the highest quality materials and 100% designed and built in Logan, UT, U.S.A.. The DWELL SHELL boasts hard-sided, insulated walls—eliminating worries of rot, mold, or flapping canvas.” said Rod Leishman, President. “The DWELL SHELL isn’t just a camper—it’s a testament to American craftsmanship and innovation, it’s the ultimate companion for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure without compromise.”
Don’t have a truck? That’s alright! We build the top sleeping portion as our stand-alone RTD (Roof Top Dwelling) to put on top of your go-to vehicle.
Order your DWELL SHELL today. DWELL DIFFERENT and enjoy the outdoors to the fullest with the DWELL SHELL.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Four Wheel Campers:
The Project M by Four Wheel Campers is an ultra-light, super rugged canopy-style pop-up truck Camper Shell with a cab-over bed platform. The Project M mounts to the bed rails of your truck and retains the factory OEM tailgate. This allows you full use of your truck bed while still having the benefit of a pop-up canopy-style camper when you need it. Tel: 530 666 1442
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Catapult
The Launch camper shell is a rugged 4 season wedge camper that is built to withstand the rigors of overland travel.
Our camper combines a sturdy, minimal aesthetic with progressive features such as front LED marker lights, rear Baja Designs light pods, and L track mounting points. The interior features 30” of stand up space with the bed down, or raise the bed panel and have the entire length of the truck bed as living space. The super plush Nemo Roamer 4” mattress comes standard.
What truly sets the Launch apart is the patent pending 3 layer insulated tent material. Paired with our anti condensation insulated roof construction, the Launch camper shell provides year round comfort.
Want a turn key light weight shell camper system? We manufacture aluminum L track based floor plate systems, and all aluminum wheel well storage boxes. Our system easily integrates, you can go from empty truck bed to adventure camper in minutes.
See you out on the trail…
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Topo Toppers
Designed and manufactured in Southern California, Topo Toppers makes durable, lightweight & spacious pop-up camper shells. Since starting in 2020, our mission has been to provide a high-quality camper shell & outdoor products that enhance the experience for our customers. We’re committed to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Our latest addition to the Topo Topper lineup, The Rincon is the perfect union between space and comfort, It’s light enough to remain on your truck full time, and durable enough to handle the hard trails. Focused on maximising interior space, while keeping a sleek profile within your wheel wells, it’s space without bulk. While the base Rincon comes standard with lots of great features. If you’re looking for a turn key solution to your adventures, we offer tiered packages to choose from, or you can customize your Rincon ala carte.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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RADICA
Simple
The MoonLander light weight camper shell by Radica, built in Denver, CO, is the first of its kind. This truck bed shell camper features extended side pods, allowing you to sleep East to West over your truck bed. Starting at under $6,000 and weighing an average of 290 lbs, this ultra-simple setup serves multiple purposes. It is a full hard-shell camping solution with no canvas or pop-up mechanisms that could fail. The bed panels stack or can be removed completely, enabling you to haul dirt bikes or other large items in your truck bed.
Over Built
MoonLander is designed for off-road adventures and extreme weather. The roof is made of a thick honeycomb composite panel that provides insulation and is strong enough to stand on. It is secured with a welded aluminum frame wrapped in VHB-mounted aluminum panels. The camper can handle 500 lbs on the roof and is built for rugged mountain trails or bushwhacking. All materials used are marine grade with stainless steel hardware.
Customizable
Radica understands that everyone has different needs and budgets. The campers are fully customizable through their website configurator, allowing you to “Build Your MoonLander” with live CAD picture updates and pricing. Customize your setup with budget-friendly options or premium accessories. The camper is designed to be DIY-friendly and can easily accept 1″ foam board insulation for winter camping. Built to last and made in America, MoonLander is ready for your next adventure. Call Us: (720) 678-9947
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Soaring Eagle Campers
Soaring Eagle Campers OV-X line of truck topper line has four different models (5.0, 5.5, 6.5, and 8.0), and is working on a new 6.0 model designed for the 6’ beds of trucks like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. The OV-X features a king-size pull out bed with underbed storage; steel bar lift system; MaxxAire fan w/rain sensor; rear floor lights; quick-detach jack brackets; and built-in electrical center. Popular options include roof solar packages; Bluetooth heated 100 amp hour battery; Blackstone griddle; molle boards and various exterior attachments.
Soaring Eagle Campers is committed to providing a “gateway” light weight shell camper that transitions people from the tent camping lifestyle to the RVing lifestyle with an affordable, ultra lightweight product that is simple to use and will provide a lifetime of great memories.
Scott Tuttle, President of Soaring Eagle Campers shares, “With Truck ownership up all across North America, it just makes sense that there would be a company that offered affordable truck campers designed specifically for today’s popular half-ton trucks as well as the ever growing small truck market. Soaring Eagle Campers fit that bill as we attract outdoorsmen, hunters, fishermen, kayakers, mountain bikers, etc. who ), etc. who own half-ton and smaller trucks. Our construction and attention to detail set us apart from a lot of our competitors in the entry level market as a number of other brands are constructed with wood and staples. Our motto is, ‘This camper will outlast your truck!’ and it will.” Call them at 574-900-1997.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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AT Overland
The Habitat, a standout in the AT lineup, is a game-changer for adventurers craving utility and comfort. This innovative truck topper transforms your vehicle into a mobile base camp, prepared for any terrain. With its lightweight yet rugged design (360 lbs.), the Habitat delivers exceptional versatility, allowing you to conquer off-road trails while enjoying a comfortable sleeping space wherever you park.
Designed for the modern explorer, the Habitat offers over 7 feet of headroom and ample ventilation, turning a truck bed into a 15-foot living space capable of accommodating up to four adults. The durable wax-impregnated, cotton/poly tent material protects you from the elements while the integrated sleeping platform supports up to 600 pounds and features a comfortable dense foam mattress. User-friendly by design, the Habitat features quick setup and stowage, letting you establish camp in minutes and hit the road without delay.
Enhanced by a broad range of available accessories, the Habitat’s versatility extends your vehicle’s functionality, and its compatibility with various truck models ensures a perfect fit. Built with premium materials, the Habitat is designed to endure the rigors of the wild, offering long-lasting durability.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country expedition, the Habitat is your reliable, comfortable solution for overland travel. Experience the freedom of the open road and backcountry with the Habitat, the ultimate light weight camper shell to adventure better.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Harker Outdoors
EXO Camper from Harker Outdoors
Brilliant Space-Maximizing Design, American Made Quality, Unparalleled Buildout Options, and an Incredible $5,995 Starting Price
At the heart of the EXO Camper is its innovative light weight camper shell design that maximizes space and functionality without compromising on comfort. With its well-thought-out layout, including a lift-away split-bed design, EXO ensures that every inch of space is utilized efficiently, making it perfect for both short weekend getaways and extended off-grid adventures.
When it comes to quality and durability, the EXO Camper is second to none. Constructed in Salt Lake City, Utah, using high-quality materials and featuring a robust welded steel frame, EXO is built to withstand the harshest of conditions. Whether you’re traversing rugged terrain or braving inclement weather, EXO will keep you safe and comfortable throughout your journey.
Options Options Options! The EXO Camper boasts a range of optional features that set it apart from its competitors. From a state-of-the-art Dirt Circuit solar power system, to cabinets and benches, heaters, fans, and awnings, the Harker EXO is designed to provide a seamless camping experience. And speaking of options, Harker also offers their EDC Camper which includes a tailgate enclosure annex to give you even more interior space, and a standing entry!
Overall, Harker Outdoors’ EXO Camper is a top-of-the-line Truck Camper that combines innovative design, superior durability, and advanced features to create an unparalleled camping experience all at an unbelievable starting price of only $5,995. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just getting started, the EXO Camper is the perfect companion for your next outdoor expedition.
To Learn More CLICK HERE
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Alternative Light Weight Camper Shell Brands:
Go Fast Campers Tel: 406 303 5181 support@gfcengineering.com
Snap! Outfitters – mandy@snapoutfitters.com
Vagabond Outdoors – Tel: 707 750 5236 info@vagabondoutdoors.com
Ovrlnd Campers – Tel: 307 314 4456 info@campovrlnd.com
Ursa Minor Vehicles – Tel:619-424-9030 info@ursaminorvehicles.com
Alu-Cab – Tel: 908 454 6973
Skinny Guy Campers – Tel: 574 891 0200 info@skinnyguycampers.com
Lone Peak Overland – Tel: 509 413 0107 team@lonepeakoverland.com
Hiatus Campers – care@hiatuscampers.com
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