Trucker Camper Life: Better Than Vanlife
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.ค. 2024
- I began my journey in a van but eventually upgraded to a truck camper. Through experience, I discovered that the truck camper far more effectively suits my full-time living needs. Explore my rationale and determine what best aligns with your lifestyle: the nimble van or the versatile truck camper.
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POWER ITEMS I USE:
All Powers R1500 Portable Power Station 1800W
R1500 LifePO4 Power Station with SP037 400W folding solar panels
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Jackery 1000 with solar panels
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Jackery 2000 Pro
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Flash Fish 300W Solar Generator
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RV Surge Protector - 30-50 Amp, Portable and Hardwired Options, with Fault Detection
Progressive Industries
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CAMPER DECOR AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:
Stick on Tiles in the Kitchen and on the Refrigerator
Traditional Mexican Talavera Tile Stickers
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Portable Folding Full-length mirror
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LED Globe String Lights, Warm White Moroccan Lights, Battery Powered
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KITCHEN ITEMS:
Wall Magnetic Knife Holder
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Adhesive Kitchen Sink Sponge Holder + Dish Cloth Hanger + Soap Holder,
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Foldable and Compact Dish Drying Rack for Kitchen Counter
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Instant Pot - 3 Quart
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Toaster Oven/Air Fryer/Dehydrator
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STORAGE ITEMS
Silver Shower Organizer Shower Caddy Basket with Hooks Soap Dish Holder Shelf for Bathroom Storage Organizer amzn.to/3vLHqo6
6 pack hanging cup holders/ small Storage Container
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Anything Keeper 11” x 10” x 2.5”
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Everything Keeper 13” x 10” x 2.5”
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Closet Tension Shelf & Rod Expandable Metal Storage Rack
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Space saving hangers
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CLEANING ITEMS:
Camco folding broom - what every camper needs!
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DOG ITEMS:
Paw.com PupProtector Dog Blanket - This is waterproof and washable. It saves my bed from becoming a dog bed.
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Spill-proof pet water bowl - I accidentally left this on the floor with water when traveling, and nothing spilled.
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RV ITEMS:
Unique Digest it - Black Holding Tank Treatment
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Camco Large RV Stabilizing Jack Pads 14 Inch x 12 Inch Pad - Pack of 2 (I have 4)
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Solar Lights Outdoor Clip Motion Sensor Lights
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Camper Levelers
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00:00 Introduction
01:30 Chai latte
01:50 First Rig Was a Van
02:14 Camper Can Detach
03:24 Don't Have To Break Camp
03:58 Bigger Water Tanks
04:48 Feels Like a Tiny Home
05:27 Higher Clearance
05:54 Temperature Control
07:30 Storage
08:09 More Comfortable Ride
08:59 Van More Expensive
10:23 Bathroom
11:08 Feels More Spacious
11:40 Comfortable Bed
12:41 Compact Size
13:01 Things I Miss About a Van
15:07 I Prefer The Truck Camper
![USA Showcase: CANADA vs USA [OFFICIAL STREAM]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/m9Cz3xsdDgc/mqdefault.jpg)
What you didn't even mention yet I thought would be your first "what I miss about the van" -- being able to go from the driver's seat to the living space and back without going outside. In my minivan I've pulled into my overnight spot when hella mosquitos were out, when it was raining, when the area was a little sketchy and been glad not to leave the vehicle.
That’s a great reason for a van, but unfortunately I feel thats the only one for a van. 🫤🍻
I thought that would be an issue and one of the reasons why I started with a van, but, so far, nothing like that has come up. I feel as safe in it as I did the van. It always sucks when it is raining, though. The van is a winner in bad weather!
When I had truck campers I had a boot for the rear window so that my daughter could go back and forth from the truck cab to the camper. I could squeeze through it to.
Good idea! I did look into that but so far I haven't felt a need. I would have to get a different rear truck window.
Your little dog is a speedy Gonzales. I couldn't outrun him! 😅
I agree with you. Truck campers are soooo good. I hope I will live in one, in the future. Another nice video, thank you, and cheers from Ukraine!
I wish I could pick you up and we could go on a adventure to somewhere safe, beautiful and warm. Stay well and your truck camper is waiting for you in your bright future!
Thank you for your reviews and opinions on the van vs truck campers. I agree with you on the first part, if your truck or camper needs repairs/or replaced, at least you are not without the whole thing. That's the best part of it! Truck campers are more "homey" than van living. They are also "multi use" as well, as if you are going to dog shows, the truck camper is also your motel if you do not live in it full time!
Dog shows sound fun and it is always great to have your comfy home near by.
Over the yrs my wife & I had 2truck camper, 2 pop ups, 3 regular campers. I still have the last one & use it as my base setup on a lake lot in TX. I now travel in cargo van with minimal build out. I’m enjoying it as it forces me to live outdoors more. At 73 & widower, I’m healthier living that life.😊. Of all the campers I ‘ve had I have to say that I enjoyed the truck camper better than the others mostly because of its flexibility.
Happy Travels & I enjoy your channel.
Thanks! There is something to be said about minimal builds. You are right. It does force you to be in the outdoors more and I got a certain satisfaction out having less stuff and still making it work.
interesting you didn't mention security - the fact that in a van you can easily go from bed to drive away if needed
This is why i would pick the van.
That was a concern and one of the reasons I chose a van initially, but after three years, that situation has never come up. I feel just as safe in my camper as in my van. I also carefully research my camping spots, and if it feels sketchy, I move on. Once, I didn't do that, and I had a creepy guy near my camper. I moved, and it was ok. I talked about it in my Scary Stories video. I appreciate your comment.
I don't want to be a Debbie downer however this might help someone down the road. There was an lady who was driving her van who had to stop suddenly and something from the back came up and hit her in the back of the head and killed her so please make sure everything is secure if you are in a van. I feel the truck campers are safer.
That's so tragic! I could see that happening. I like the truck camper better because you don't hear everything moving around when driving. That would drive me crazy in my van. You have to always be safety conscious. Bad stuff can happen with a truck camper too.
Interesting! Never heard a camper description before.
It's a 2021 NuCamp Cirrus 820. I must have edited that part out! I didn't mean to. I will do a tour soon.
One more pro for a van is that if you feel threatened or unsafe, you can drive away without exiting the van. Another pro for a truck is that besides the higher ground clearance, it is much easier to find a truck with a 4-wheel drive. 4x4 vans are quite rare and are usually converted to 4x4, which is less reliable and voids the warranty. There are factory 4x4 Sprinter vans, but they are outrageously expensive.
Great point! There are both great rigs! Thank you for watching!
Never had a truck camper but hope to have one someday. I have a small toy hauler that we love because of the drop down deck we use for outside living and don’t have to walk out the door. Pulling a bumper pull or fifth wheel is a pain in the butt…I love the simplicity of a truck camper. Great review, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching! I saw a Palamino truck camper at an RV show that had a drop down deck. I love the idea of that! It's like your own private balcony with a view!
@@KimannChessa Wow, I did not know there was a truck camper with a drop down door. I will definitely check them out…best of both worlds!
Thank you for the unbiased and thorough comparison between van and truck camper living! It is very helpful!
You're welcome.
I started in a minimally built out camper (to mitigate costs) and lived mostly full time for about 5 years. Switched to a truck/camper this year and love it a thousand times more! I have a bigger truck, it’s a dually, but I can still fit in a regular spot if the entry angle is wide. I feel much more stable in high wind situations too. I did miss the van in that I could pull over and hop on the toilet, but that the only thing I miss! 😂 Overall, I enjoy this combo more the van.
Thanks for sharing! I agree! Vans are great, but the truck camper is much more comfortable. I appreciate you watching!
Love the video 💕 Thanks for sharing your experience.👍
You are so welcome! I appreciate you watching it!
Great video!!! Thanks!
Thank you for watching!
Additional cons of the truck camper, for me, is having to get out of it if i need to drive away, not being able to hang out in urban areas because of the attention it brings, not being able to park in parking garages, and the risk of having my home stolen because I left it, which I've seen too many times to be comfortable with. I agree with all of your pros, even though a lot of them were because you didn't have a good build. Vanlife requires being ok with not living like you're in a house and most people aren't going to be ok with that. RVs, trailers, and truck campers give people to opportunity to travel or be in nature in something that feels like the house they're used too, which is perfect for those who want it.
Thank you! Those are some great pros for a van, and you are right. Vans are great, and I loved traveling in one. I think you can thrive in whatever vehicle you are in. There are pros and cons to every rig. It is more about the adventure! Thank you for watching.
The only solution to having both world is the TacoZilla or TundZilla. . I wish the production would get started.
So good to see you!
Thank you! Good to see you here too!
That my dear was an amazing description of both
Great job!!!! Seriously Great job
Glad you liked it!! Thank you so much!
Well you're smart thanks much 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thank you for watching!
Stay warm...been chilly here in Punta Gorda in the morning 😊
It has been chilly but it is a nice change. Punta Gorda is a pretty place! Enjoy!
I love your camper... I also love my van! 😊
I love vans too! There are pros and cons with every rig. I think the most important thing is the adventure!
I can def see it easier to live in than a van. I would love to have a king cab truck, big four wheel drive with a contractor van on if.
Your dogs felt like the van was a car too. I bet they are happier in the truck camper. Great video! Thanks for sharing!
Yes they do like the camper better. They can jump on the bed and look out the window. The van bed was too high and they couldn't jump on it. Thank you for your comment!
I agree with you on the truck camper I had one love all the trips I did with it but like everything nothing last for ever and I now have a travel trailer. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Safe travels will be watching for your next video
Thanks. I think it is more about the adventure than the rig! I might be in something else someday.
I don’t think I have to tell you this, but whatever you decide to get whether it’s a truck camper, travel trailer or a fifth wheel you still have a tow vehicle to drive around you don’t have to break camp that’s why I went with a travel trailer. I set up my camper and then I have my tow vehicle my pick up truck that I go in sightsee with but I would never be able to get into the location you go with that truck camper you got to keep that in mind. Also, your pick up trucks like my pick up truck 2 Wheel Dr. only you’re doing a lot better than my truck would I get stuck on wet grass again keep up the great videos
The Chai latte looks cozy and festive.
You make a strong case for truck campers! I like the versatility of dropping the camper and using the truck as a daily driver when needed.
Thanks! 👍
🎉Awesome video and I love❤ your Truck Camper❤ a lot better than a Van Thank You for Sharing 🎉
Thank you so much 🤗
I agree with you on the truck camper vs a van. I really like the idea that it can be detached when needed. I think you have a great set up. And, you have a shower in the camper.
Yeah. The shower and separate bathroom are great! I had a luggable loo and a portable tent shower in my van. It worked but the separate bathroom is so much better.
Several months ago I traded a truck in for a sprinter 4x4. I really like it but have only spent one night in it. I finally realized that I miss driving my 22 super duty tremor but don't miss the gas engine. I'm going to get another tremor but with a diesel and I'm going to get a supertramp pop-up camper. The truck was so much more comfortable to drive and my two dogs don't like the van. anyways
That is awesome! You can get into the backcountry with the van, but a pop-up camper and 4x4 is the ultimate off-road setup! Ron, my male rat terrier, was freaked out by the noises in the van. He prefers the truck, although he still hates bumpy roads.
Hello Kimann it's the Prez, I have had truck campers and they are awesome. I now have a Toyota Warrior class c and I love it too, because it is my home. I have all the same comforts of home. Great video and your camper is great, good choice.🌹
There are pros and cons with every rig and I will probably experience something else in the future. A class C is a home.
❤️
I like the idea that you can detach the unit like you said and when your truck is worn out it's going to be easiest to change without having to change out the whole living area as well. I would love to own either but truck camper definitely has always been the bigger draw, unfortunately I don't see either in my near future lol. I'll enjoy my travels through your eyes lol
It's more about the adventure than the rig. You can get out there in a tent and compact car and it is still great!
@@KimannChessa You're absolutely right
I’ve had travel trailers n a 5th wheel, n now my truck camper. Because i had bought my dually truck for the 5th wheel, sold the 5th wheel but truck was paid for, didn’t make sense to downsize a new truck n lose money over it, so i ended up buying a big Northern lite, cause i wanted a generator, (cause never not had one) now i keep comparing vans n small class c’s to it. And so far I’ve yet to see any that beat out my likes for my truck camper lol. So appreciate hearing your comparisons. 🍻
You do need a beefier truck to support the truck camper but they are great! You get all the perks of bigger rigs in a compact size and still have ample living space!
So helpful that info 😊❤
Glad it was helpful! Thank you, Madeleine.
I could so live and travel in that
Nice to have a view from that high i bet .. better than a rooftop tent
I do go up on the roof from time to time.
@@KimannChessa really wow brave Lol
Wow financially it made way more sense, and is worth more money imo
Get your buns out to Arizona where it's warm and sunny! I'm in Puerto vallarta now but coming home soon! Timmy C Arizona
I would love to go to Arizona! There is so much beauty out there. I am close to my parents for now because my mom is sick. Enjoy Mexico! Did you drive there? I would love to take the camper to Mexico again and stay for a while. It will happen!
Nice comparisons. Always nice to have enclosed facilities.
So true! You can live without it, some people do, but it is so lovely not to use the toilet in the same place that you eat!
Hey I just came across your channel. Be very careful with your dogs in our Florida Woods. We have a bad coyote problem. They are so cute.
Thank you so much for letting me know. I almost never take them off the leash but that morning Ron wanted to run. So, I let him. I didn't realize that there are coyotes! Yikes.
Three things make a truck camper better for my needs than a Class B style van RV:
1. Higher tow capacity of the truck.
2. Bigger tank capacities of a truck camper - at least the ones I've had (Arctic Fox)
3. Bigger bathroom / shower.
I agree! The van is great but having the additional tank capacity, bigger shower and bathroom in the camper are so nice!
🐶🐶♥️
I'd LOVE to have a truck camper. The only thing that scares me would be to try and load the camper. I'd be afraid to knock the camper over 😨. Still want one, though!
I get that! It was a fear of mine, too. At first, it looked like I was backing up into my camper. I got used to it, and it is no big deal now. You still have to be careful, but it is doable for anyone, even alone. I am going to do a video about loading and unloading. Get your truck camper! You will be a pro in no time. It is just like anything else that is new. It may be scary at first, but you become a stronger person by venturing into the uncomfortable. You can do it! Thanks for watching!
13:43 wouldnt want to open sliding door and back doors in such temperature :D
Very true!
I have a Conversion Van for day trips, Weekenders, etc., but I don't live in it full-time. I've thought about a Truck Camper but a few things are concerning to me. 1. Safety. With my Van I can quickly drive away without going outside to do that. 2. I have heard that rain leaks oftentimes occur as it road shifts over time, especially in the overhead cab areas. Mildew/Mold is a great challenge once any leaks start in hidden areas of the metal seams. 3. Weight distribution/height in any Cross Winds or Bad Storm conditions.
Do you have any concerns regarding about those issues? I've heard most all of those issues dramatically effect the Resell Factor since fixing any problems are costly to do. I'd value your opinions. I still haven't ruled out a Truck Camper setup, just very cautious about it. My father LOVED HIS Truck Camper 100 percent!
I thought I would miss the ability to go from the bed to the drivers seat quickly but it hasn't been an issue so far. It sucks in bad weather though. My truck camper is made of Azdel and not wood. Supposedly, it doesn't rot or grow mold or mildew. I get it resealed every year and haven't had any problems with it. The camper does shift in the bed with wind. I try not to drive when there are high winds. It is trickier to drive than the van but you get used to it quickly. I read that truck campers hold their value better than typical RVs. I'm not sure though. Thanks for commenting!
@@KimannChessa Thank you 😊. All good points to consider. It sounds like you did a good job of researching your rig beforehand and that helps so much in allowing you to feel comfortable with your purchase. I'm keeping an open mind since I don't think I'll need to replace my Conversion Van anytime soon but equally good to have a Plan B in mind when the time comes.
It is always good to keep an open mind and research options. I try to because your needs may change, and the age of a rig is measured in dog years. It is not like the age of a house.
I’m in a van atm… The only reason I am considering a truck camper is for the off road capabilities… I drive my van places I shouldn’t! 😅
I hear you! I did the same thing and sometimes it was scary! My truck is not a 4x4 but my next one definitely will be! Once you get the taste of getting to the backcountry without other people around, you want to explore more!
@@KimannChessa most definitely! I would want to design my own camper though-I also hate all the space the bench seats take up and are so uncomfortable to sit in:()) It would be cool to go to a salvage place and get some great car seats (from a van, hehe) and install them on a swivel! ! Saw on youtube some guy tore apart a recliner and rebuilt it for his van! It looked vantastic!
That sounds like an amazing idea!
Have you run into any campgrounds that will not accept a truck camper? I've heard that can be an issue but I don't really know.
I have run into 2 that said that they do not accept truck campers - both in Florida. One was a Thousand Trails in Zephyrhills. They said since I was only staying 2 nights they would allow me if they put me out of the way. No Thanks! The other one was near Tampa. Other than that, I never had an issue. Good question!
Wondering what size truck you’re using? I have a 1/2 ton and my husband doesn’t think any truck camper would fit on it safely, even if they say it would.
I have a 3/4 ton. The NuCamp Cirrus isn't as heavy as other truck campers. I thought I needed to upgrade but it is working out fine with the truck modifications. There are truck campers for 1/2 ton trucks. They are lighter but you still have to consider the weight of the stuff you are putting in it.
Personally I would only pick a vehicle that I could jump in the driver's seat if there was ever an emergency because I wouldn't pick a vehicle that I'd have to go out and around the rig and jump in the driver's seat and confront whatever I'm trying to get away from.
Initially, that was a concern for me, too, which is why I chose a van, but after three years, something like that has yet to come up. I feel just as safe in my camper as in my van.
Hi! Did you ever consider a small motorhome being you travel full time?😊
I did, at first, like a small B+ or C. When I first started traveling, I was a travel nurse, and I wanted something I could detach, so I had a vehicle to take to work. Also, with the dogs, I needed a place for them to stay when I was working. The truck camper just worked better.
Your soo cute in all your videos ❤ 😊
Thanks, Kayla. You are so kind!
I'd feel the post would give out while I'm in their lol. Heart attack waiting to happen😂. Id probably have to live on 4 wheels haha
They would not! I had to get used to sleeping over no support when the camper is off the truck. I kept thinking that it was going to tip over. That never happened. They design them based on the center of gravity.
@@KimannChessa getting in one knowing it's safe or they wouldn't make it, but me id get that feeling, someone would have to pop me on the head and say get that out of your mind hahahaha
I understand that but that feeling goes away when it doesn't happen. It did for me.
Did you ever consider a small towable trailer??
I looked into a Casita before I bought the truck camper. I was considering towing it with the van because I needed a temperature-controlled environment for the dogs while working. I planned to use the Casita when I was working and then travel with the van only when traveling, but I would have to pay to store the Casita. The Casita also felt cramped, and I wasn't keen on towing anything bigger. Also, the factory had a 9-month production time. Building out the van and paying for the Casita would have been more expensive than the truck and truck camper. I may tow something in the future if the right trailer comes along. I appreciate your comment.
Is there a better truck that can give you more than 11 miles a gallon?
Great question! I looked into more fuel efficient trucks and I couldn't find one with enough power and payload capacity to safely carry the camper. Thanks for asking.
Is that a 3/4-ton truck with long bed.
It's a standard bed - 6' 5" and a 3/4 ton truck, F250. I was going to upgrade to a F350 but my truck is working for now. The NuCamp Cirrus 820 can go on a 3/4 or 1 ton.
To detach is nice but truck campers seem less safe and hard to see blind spots when driving.
IMO, they are just as safe as vans. You need wide mirrors or those fish eye mirrors to see those blind spots.
@@HensOnly would scare me but probably just have to get used to it. I do like the setup except for the uncomfortable seats
@@BIKENESS I know and if you are the only one using it, you can alter a bit by putting up foldable bench seats so you can have a "clear area" for a recliner/rocking chair (foldable but it may be expensive) and small foldable side table just for YOU. when you have company, you can fold up your comfy chair and table and put down the bottom seats and set up the table. Just have to get creative lol.
@@HensOnly that would be nice 👍
That is true but I feel safe driving it now. I had to get used to it. Vans are definitely easier to drive.
What do you think your dogs are happier in?, the truck or the van?. Your truck and camper system is a really nice set up , do you think about when you get a little bit older how you will go with the physical aspects of the camper such as loading it on and off the truck etc?. I've already divised strategy's for when im older, such as filling two 5ltr water containers and carrying them separately rather than the 10ltr i do all at once now etc. Nice vid as always and good topic, hope the dogs are having a good time!. Safe travels!.
That's an interesting question about the dogs. I think they like the truck camper better because they can jump on the bed and look out the window. The bed in the van was too high for them to jump on. Also, when I had the sliding door open, they had to stay on a lead. Ron hates the long leash and usually hid in the front cab while Lilo would explore outside and get tangled up on branches, trees, the van.
My response should have addressed my plan for when I get older. Right now, my goal is prevention as much as possible. I am working on my flexibility and strength to stay in whatever rig I have for as long as I want. I realize that with aging comes inevitable physical changes, and you bring up a good point that I haven't started to think about yet. I appreciate your comment.