Question 1

What are the best ways to camp with a truck topper?

Accepted Answer

In this video I cover the main ways I’ve actually done it: a mattress on the bed floor, a bed platform (like Bam Beds), an inflatable platform (FLATED Air-Deck), a rooftop tent, and a DIY build. I also mention using a cot as another solid option. The best one depends on how much comfort you want and how much gear you need to keep in the bed.

Question 2

Can you sleep directly on the floor of a truck bed with a topper?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it’s definitely the easiest setup—just drop a mattress in and go. The downside is the bed isn’t flat, so those bumps make it uneven unless you run a thicker mattress. You’re also limited to the space between the wheel wells, which can get annoying if your gear is back there too.

Question 3

Is a bed platform worth it for topper camping?

Accepted Answer

For me, a platform is one of the best upgrades because it gets you sleeping above the wheel wells and gives you a lot more usable width. I’ve used Bam Beds and I like that it packs down small and barely takes up room when you’re not using it. It also saves you from designing and building something from scratch.

Question 4

Is the FLATED Air-Deck basically just an air mattress?

Accepted Answer

Not really—this is the important part. The Air-Deck inflates to a pretty high pressure, so it’s firm and supportive, not that springy air-mattress feel. It also folds up small when deflated, which is huge if you want your bed space back.

Question 5

Can you put a rooftop tent on a truck topper?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, but it depends on the topper. My Ranch fiberglass topper is strong and has the built-in mounting points for a rack, so it can handle a rooftop tent setup. Not all toppers can do that, so you need to verify the load rating before you buy anything.

Question 6

What rooftop tent are you using on your topper setup?

Accepted Answer

I’m running a Freespirit Odyssey (not the XL) on an UpTop Overland rack, and it’s been my favorite so far. I like it both aesthetically and for comfort inside. If you want to go even lighter, something like an Aspen Lite is an option too.

Question 7

Is building your own truck bed sleeping platform cheaper than buying one?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily anymore. Lumber costs add up fast, and in my opinion it can get close to the cost of something like FLATED or Bam Beds. DIY is awesome if you’ve got the skills and time, but you also have to think about where you’ll store a big platform when it’s not in the truck.

Question 8

Why camp with a truck topper instead of a tonneau cover?

Accepted Answer

The biggest reason is keeping all your stuff dry, and you get a lot more versatility. A tonneau can keep things covered, but a topper gives you that enclosed space with windows and airflow, and it opens up way more camping options. There’s a reason people call them camper tops—some people literally live out of these.

5 Ways to Camp with a Truck Topper

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