3 Different Overland Truck Setups (Pros & Cons) Which is Best?

Now that I've had years of experience from each possible style of overland truck setup, I wanted to share my thoughts on each. Not many people can say they've been able to use all 3 types, so I'm hoping this gives people good direction for their own personal build without having to waste money or go for a setup you think you may need. Setup 1 is any typical bed rack or camper shell with a roof top tent. Setup 2 is a truck camper that you live and sleep in. This can be a Go Fast Camper, Alucab camper, Super Pacific camper, or any other drop in style truck camper. Setup 3 is a flatbed tray and canopy setup. This is a full bed replacement that gives you modularity and crazy amounts of storage.
I hope you guys find this information useful. This video not only applies to just Tacomas. The same knowledge applies for any other overland truck platform whether it's for a Frontier, Ranger, Tundra, RAM, GMC Canyon, Chevy Colorado, or any other traditional truck with a truck bed.
0:00 Intro
0:33 100k Subscribers!
1:33 Video Overview
3:44 The 3 Truck Setup Options
5:23 Option 1 - Bed Rack / Camper Shell
8:19 Option 2 - Truck Bed Camper
13:03 Option 3 - Flatbed Tray and Canopy
18:36 How Each Setup Feels Offroad
21:04 My Favorite Setup Option
21:52 Outro and Advice
________________________________________________________
⬇️⬇️⬇️ SOCIAL LINKS ⬇️⬇️⬇️
My Website: www.arkoffroad.com
Patreon: / arkansasoffroad
Instagram: / grizzy.gram
⬇️⬇️⬇️ GEAR - COUPON CODES - AND MORE ⬇️⬇️⬇️
All Discounts: www.arkoffroad.com/discounts
ARK Offroad Merch: www.arkoffroad.com/store
Submit Your Rig: www.arkoffroad.com/resources

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Out of the 3 options, what's your favorite truck setup and why?

[@Kevin-gh1cn]

I'm with you on the option 4, flatbed with the camper/tent integrated. Check out Overland Under Budget, he built something similar. Otherwise, I think option 2 is the way I'm going. I want to be able to stand up and also have access to the box from the sleeping area. Congrats on the 100k as well. Great content man.

[@thomasjackson4074]

Aside from a Suburban, which we all know is the best choice, I think the TJ was the next best!

[@christophervillalta2006]

I'm thinking of going with a pseudo Option 1 or 2, but with a Bowen Customs Topper Bed. This way I get the additional storage, high clearance rear, and spare wheel storage built into the bed itself. Not sure about the cap or tent setup yet.

[@fabulousoffroaddesigns5080]

I am very partial to my AT Habitat, but would also consider a new Skinny Guy Camper. I have done a few set ups like you but my next one would be on a flat bed as well.

[@OutOfOfficeCamping]

We like option #2. We started building a flatbed on our F350. Stopped at the flatbed build. Then switched gears to mid size truck with RTT CVT and within 4 months switch to the GFC ( we like keeping our gear secure and out of the elements). We like the simplicity, the lightest camper on the market, the truck is still a truck with our build. Our cooler and power station sit in the back of our back seats with a seat delete. The flat bed is just to much weight and removing everything to wheel? But you want to stop for lunch and you have no cooler...ect... Yay that's a Big No for your use. We definitely love the wedge style camper set up for traveling and our mid size truck for East Coast Trails. Congratulations on 100K ❤ with a IPhone! Lot to be said on that alone. 😊 (Brian R. Toyota Overlanders Friends.) Mark (& Teresa) Hampstead Maryland • Purpose Built Adventure Rig © • Ford Ranger FX4 - GFC Camper V2 #1919 • Kia Soulverlander •

[@handyman2183]

You deliver content in a unpretencious down to earth way. Nothing. Is more off-putting than KZbinrs that use clickbait and gimmicks/theatrics to try and draw you in. Keep up the great work.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

I greatly appreciate that.

[@baseafbronco]

Dude facts! I don’t even have a Tacoma and me watching this channel makes me want one 😂 mad love for this channel from the tj (when I started watching) to the taco .

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Very very helpful information for my new Tacoma build! But I still feel so torn😂

[@pouroffroad]

Great down to earth break down! Debating between a few different things for my overland build so this gave me more to think about without a sales driven perspective.

[@AliDaniali]

It was great meeting you and seeing how genuine you are in attitude and willingness to teach and instruct. You’ll get to 200k and beyond. Look forward to getting on the trails with you in Arkansas!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Right back at you!! Thanks Ali!

[@boxerdude671]

I love your channel man. Congrats on 100k Not to bring up another channel but Option 4 is basically what Overland Under Budget made.

[@SirLarryHorse]

Great job on the 100k milestone. Enjoy your content, great mix of how to, off road, and reviews

[@stevez_605]

I don't see any negative with you doing what you do with your own life. I love the contents you create and bring out to us when you do. Sometimes, I'll watch your videos more than once to get a better understanding of every detail or advice you give. You have a family as well, so that's very well more important than being a full-time youtuber. No matter how much you enjoy and hate it 😅 Keep doing what you do and I can not wait for more of your adventures 🤙

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Wow, thanks so much for the encouragement! I love when someone puts themselves in my shoes and get it. Appreciate you watching!

[@TreyBaker]

Congrats on 100k, that's freaking cool! Great run down of the different builds. I have to say the Alucab setup was my favorite, the access from the bed to the tent seemed like a really convenient way. However, I'm really intrigued with your newest version. The kitchen setup is sweet and all the storage looks awesome. I'm currently starting from scratch with my '21 Taco. Certainly wasn't planned, my 4runner was destroyed in a crash 😢. But, I'm excited to get started on this new build. I certainly look to you and many others for inspiration and advice. So keep doing your thing man and we'll keep watching!

[@ozk4x4]

You’re doing an awesome job! I’ve been with you since the TJ days. Making NWA proud. Well done, sir.

[@OscarOverlanding]

You deserve it! You have a great channel!

[@jayesh5131]

Congratulations for 100000 subs 🎉 Keep making what you're making 🔥

[@G.O.O.A.T.]

Congrats on 100k 🎉

[@chucklesthefireguy5356]

I really liked that custom Decked-drawer cutout you did. That is on my radar if I buy the Harker.

[@J.Young808]

I have always liked watching your videos and the evolution of your Tacoma. I just put down a deposit on one of the last three 2023 Tacoma Access Cabs on O’ahu. I got a base Off Road as it was on special and eventually I am going to build out an Overlander.

[@roamingwiththemilligans]

love the info man!

[@morizmdz]

Thank you for your amazing content! 🎉

[@sonnicman]

Congratulations 🎊 on all your success. I throughly enjoyed this video. It was very informative. Keep doing what you’re doing. 👍

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thank you!

[@ExploringAlabama]

CONGRATS on 100K!

[@jaxsonflood8926]

Congratulations on 100k you deserve it

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks so much

[@85_slorunner]

Congrats on 100k man!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks!!

[@sonsoflibertyoverland]

Congrats on 100K! Love how you keep innovating your setup and testing things. Option 4 sounds interesting too haha.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks so much!

[@mmanalo76]

Been watching your videos here and there. You've given me lots of great ideas for my current build. As of now, I'm going for option 2 (Dirtbox canopy camper.)

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Awesome!! Appreciate that. Use my Dirtbox discount code if you haven't placed your order yet. ARKOFFROAD or ARKOFFROAD15 for any accessory. Cheers

[@Trudogtrails]

I enjoy the GFC but also like the flatbed set up so pulled the trigger on a Bowman Custom bed to keep the GFC! Congrats on 100k! Keep it real Brother and thank you!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

That's gonna be baller!! Thanks a ton.

[@willofthemaker]

Congrats!

[@SonOfTheWild]

Great informative video, thx. Greetings from Poland ;)

[@origionalawesome]

You are the real deal man. Thank you for spending all the time working through this stuff and investing in the community so we can follow your trail. 🙏 Instant sub. I like genuine people.

[@origionalawesome]

Looking at the options - I would go for option 2. And get a 12 foot utility trailer for the odd time I need to grab lumber or sheetrock. Next obstacle is, how easily can you load big game out of the woods with each set up 😂

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Man, I really appreciate that. Means a lot.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

@@origionalawesome Ha, very true. A trailer is the move for sure. Lol!

[@thomasjackson4074]

Only 100K? Your channel is way underrated!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

I’m still thinking KZbin got the decimal in the wrong place

[@Montanaoffroad1]

Great Video my man. Congrats on 100k! Just hit the 5k milestone today myself!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thank you! And congrats!!

[@kevinblack7853]

I have option 4 on my truck, Custom built myself. Steel flat bed tray with aluminum camper. I went through a few different set ups like you, soft shell rtt over oem bed with A full slider to access gear in the back of the bed. Then hardshell rtt higher up over top of OEM bed to be able to access items at the back of the bed easier. I based my design on @overlandunderbudget who also has a flat bed camper you can fully stand up in.

[@josephmyers64]

I agree with your option 4! I bet somebody builds it eventually

[@merritts3515]

I do love how youre currently running the canopy set up. Very rare in the states

[@kbru78]

I want a gfc so bad! Especially after watching that video of you and your buddy in Colorado at that lake! Congratulations on 100k 🔥🤜🤛

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks so much!!

[@NS-wh1cx]

Congrats on the 100k, definitely appreciate your approach to content over many of the others spamming with bullshit. If I still had my Tacoma it would 100% be on option 3 by now...

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Appreciate you saying that

[@hans-olavskar6793]

Love youre videos, so inspiring. I recently bought a Hilux and i am probably gonna buy a roof tent later. I am going to an overlanding meeting here in norway soon. Maybe i’ll put all my money into a Arctic truck upgrade in the future. Youre tacoma looks great 🤟🏻

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks!

[@michaelquatrano6189]

It's no mystery how you got to 100k. Nicely put together content without the bs. I am currently in this exact situation of decision making. Option two or three for me. Its our first attempt at overlanding and want to get it right. I like the flatbed for all the reasons you stated. I'm struggling will taking off a brand new bed though. Best to you.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Appreciate it!

[@kcreative2]

This is a great video for someone starting out like myself. Option 1 might be a good one for someone starting out. I'm interested in a Four Wheel Project M camper or an AT Overland Atlas camper. I like the space in the Project M.

[@JT2u829]

#4 Sounds like a Four-wheel Camper flatbed setup.

[@patriotsleepercell4060]

Second is the best in my opinion!

[@user-wr9dm7uv7h]

I’m with you on the option 4. If someone could design a flatbed tray and canopy with the pass through style design into the tent, that would be a game changer.

[@johnnyutah386]

I like option 1, being a guy that goes hard on the weekend in the mountains maybe 4-5 day trips. It’s the best option you can find. I agree with the whole other options takes a huge commitment to go to those toppers and Aussie looking flatbed designs. My opinion is how far into this hobby do you wanna go is where you’ll get your answer. I rock a bed rack with a hard shell tent and have all my stuff in a decked system. I don’t mind dust, there’s always a way to cover those items. However, I can’t see paying 7k for a GFC just to use on the weekend when a hard shell tent will suffice. Especially being up here in the PNW mostly are forest roads and logging trails. All options are amazing just have to find your price point and what you’re level of commitment is, “don’t let IG or YT influence you to buy something that you really don’t need.” Best piece of advice I gotten so far. Also look at budget friendly products too. Harbor freight, Amazon, fuck even Walmart has some bomb overland stuff that don’t cost a gold bar and a toe for. My whole cooking set is from wal mart and it’s Stanley and GSI cheap AF boi! 😂

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Couldn't agree more man! There's so much crap out there you don't need. I'm kind of coming full circle and purging a lot of the gear I don't use. Feels nice.

[@TrashPandaGarage]

Good insight in this one. I wondered how much a person might miss the stand-up and shelter space of option #2 if they moved to option #3. It would be cool to see a comparison of something of an option zero, if you will; a truck with bed bars, or a low to mid-height rack, plus a side fold tent that is generally flush with the top of the cab when closed. Plus a mileage comparison between each option. Nice work on the video, though!

[@ZenOverlanding]

Currently setup #1 with rtt and rack. Like you said storage utilization is the biggest down factor. So trying to optimize the build to where it’s more accessible and organized over time to tell what works best for me going forward. & Cheers to 100k!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

That's what it's all about!! Thank you

[@tuf_1041]

Out of all the options you've presented with your rig over the years, I adore option 3 as it is the most captivating and unique of the three. You've might have said this before, but i just dont feel the market for a flatbed and box is super popular right now and i wish it was. That being said, with my rig I'm sorta running option 1/plan to build it out to option 1 as I'm really limited with the 2.7l 2wd and keeping things light is the game. One day though I wish to have the glorious option 4, but for my needs right now I think it'll be alright. Great vid as always!

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thank you!!

[@bruceknirs9987]

Of the three options you talked about I'd have to say either option one or option 3 would work for me because what you refer to as the campers I really feel is more like option one just Mark 2 version of it because for what would work best for me would be like a proper slide in truck camper that's fully sealed that way and then can come out so I can do the rest of daily small farm stuff

[@SandyCats]

Thanks for the shoutout! Great info as usual! You deserve the plaque! Regarding weight. I did have different experience with my 4R (probably not comparable due to wheelbase… etc). I expected less stability with my extremely heavy rear… especially with about 400 pounds on my tire carrier. Running some hard trails in SoCal and on the Rubicon it felt like it worked to my advantage a lot. I felt as controlled as on my Jeep for the first time. I also lifted my front a TON due to my heavy rear but the predictability of it allowed me to feel planted and more controlled. Not sure if I explained that correctly. Honestly… the heavy rear gives me more confidence than wheeling my wife’s light 4runner. Only major downside for me is hard waterfalls… too heavy to get controlled climbs. Hopefully TacoBox helps with that.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Yeah that makes sense. I guess the ease of lifting the front took me by surprise based on my other 2 setups. I didn’t expect it to happen so easy now. But yes, it’s still planted. I failed to mention this in the video, but I did notice it helps in climbs. Like a hill climb for example. The rear traction is insane because of the added weight, which is great. Rock crawling and navigating deep ruts really bring the front end up at times. Pros and cons just like everything ha. Thanks for the comment man.

[@josephdickerson9902]

Currently working towards an Option 4 on my Tundra.

[@powsnob04]

Option 4: Bowen Customs flatbed with pop up camper on it (GFC, FWC M, etc). If you want to make it easy to take on and off, then a slide in camper like a slide in FWC makes sense. Weight becomes the issue then.

[@jazminforbes209]

Man I love your intro music 😂

[@ArkansasOffroad]

🤘🏼🤘🏼

[@FastRackOverland]

So what you’re saying is build number 4 is going to look like Drew Simms Tacoma. 🤔😉 loved the video! Real world reviews is where it’s at. I like build number 2 I like the idea of being able to stand up.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Yeah dude! His truck is nuts.

[@fouresterfam8594]

I'm building a version of option 4 lol. K5 blazer, camper with pass through 👍

[@ericpierce4041]

I was thinking option 4 then you said it lol , thinking of building a option 2 tacoma for my grandsons for a first ride both are into camping from scouts so I want to hopefully keep that going to become a lifestyle , advice about most effective ways without killing the bank appreciated i am thinking square top tent you showed would probably be the choice.

[@rockie307]

Depending on the size of the truck. If you have a full size 6.5' bed or bigger and crew cab i like just a regular topper nothing on the roof. Fridge and gear in back of cab decked box in bed with mattress on top. Quick and easy, just pull over and hop in. Its low profile so fits down trails easy. With a tacoma sized truck maybe a gfc or something simular would be my choice. I really like being able to stealth camp at trail heads some of which your not supposed to do, so i don't typically like pop up or roof top tents.

[@OverlandAddict]

Congrats on 100k 🙌🏻 Dude, I’ve thought about option 4 before too. I think it’s possible. I have some ideas. We should talk to Jay and Tao.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks brotha! Option 4 was actually my original plan coming into this build. Was gonna do it with a GFC. But, Jay and Tao said it would be in the works. It’ll only be a matter of time 🫡

[@OverlandAddict]

@@ArkansasOffroad can’t wait to see it! Those guys are shaking things up.

[@TacomaForce]

Congrats man🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@byronbartlett1088]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on. The explanation and benefits of each stage and why. Keep the videos coming, getting better all the time.

[@byronbartlett1088]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on. The explanation and benefits of each stage and why. Keep the videos coming, getting better all the time.

[@byronbartlett1088]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on. The explanation and benefits of each stage and why. Keep the videos coming, getting better all the time.

[@byronbartlett1088]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on. The explanation and benefits of each stage and why. Keep the videos coming, getting better all the time.

[@byronbartlett1088]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on. The explanation and benefits of each stage and why. Keep the videos coming, getting better all the time.

[@J.Young808]

Need a tray like they have in Australia for the 70 series with the fold down sides.

[@enjoytheridedude]

I need option 4 also…waiting for that to be made before I make any more moves.

[@Inspector7I]

A square drop trailer with a furnace a kitchen,fridge. All set up can be dropped off at the site as a base camp and then you can go off Off-road Wheeling all you want.

[@bradleycunningham998]

May look at the 4 Wheel campers tray camper. Not sure if they have one for Tacos.

[@lucacadianalbert]

not sure what happened with the Audio but listening with earphones I only get audio out of the right ear. Great video

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Oh man, my bad. Thanks for pointing that out. Mono/stereo button must have been bumped.

[@reidcreel5149]

Grant, congrats bud! Off topic question but I’ve been having a problem that i thought you might be able to help me with. I’m running a small fridge off an eco flow river. When i plug the river into the truck (22 Colorado zr2)12V it kills the battery and causes power steering issues. I replaced the original battery [only 15k miles)but the 2nd one did the same thing. Any thoughts? I always thought you could charge the power station from the battery while driving. Any help is appreciated.

[@jer_nick]

Check out Basil’s Garage in San Diego. He has a custom Mits Alloy with a GFC that’s the exact option 4 you’re talking about

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Oh I’m well aware. I actually saw his rig in person at a show. So sick. That was actually my original plan. I was going to get a GFC and cut the floor like he did and make a pass through. Timing didn’t work out.

[@dizi17]

Look at the khaya camper from alucab, it's different from the one they have similar to the GFC. And it has legs for you to take it off

[@robertkoch1327]

Adding side walls to your awning would restore some of your ‘get inside issue’, longer setup time, but nice to have a stand up space and a portapotti space

[@ArkansasOffroad]

True, but the setup would be annoying and it wouldn't hold heat in as well. But I guess it's an option!

[@TeensierPython]

There’s a 4th. How I do it. I throw my ground tent in the bed. Pull it out and camp. Good enough for me.

[@jamestomlinson2247]

I guess the Goldie lox setup you’re describing would be the 50ten camper, but I’m just spitballing

[@J.Young808]

Skinny guy campers I think is what might fit your Option 4

[@adioalexsk8]

Do you think option 4, is in the works or atleast in the designer phase somewhere?

[@user-rr5qf3hn6m]

On option 1 where did you get the camper shell with the full access windows on the side?

[@rafterwhomestead]

Man, audio is all out of the right side, just a heads up! Awesome to see the evolution I really liked the topper/camper shell, but for a dedicated rig the current generation is pretty much the bees knees.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

I saw...thanks for the heads up. Must have bumped the mono/stereo button on the mic

[@bryanstaten5585]

What was the tent that raised straight up, not wedge style?

[@ABS_4264_]

What kind of height difference in the flatbed versus the floor of your factory bed? Seems much higher

[@Harps555]

Yo man, I spoke to dirtbox about making a flatbed with a pass through camper because I think that's really what the industry is missing. and they said they are working on it, so maybe you should hit them up I'm sure they will let you know more with your relationship and status in the industry.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Hey! Funny you say that. When I started this project with them, they mentioned the same thing. Might be a thing for the truck one day 😎

[@itsjusttruckcamping]

basils garage did it on a mits and gfc tent

[@ArkansasOffroad]

I've seen it in person and it's mint

[@drcav_photo]

option 4: ground tent, option 5: sleep in the camper shell

[@craignorred]

Option 6 sleep in the bed under a toneau

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Lol, there’s a million ways to sleep. Add a hammock if you want to. These are truck bed specific camping setup options that most people consider for their build.

[@jimrice4699]

Couldnt' you take a Project M off just as easy, or easier than your flat bed tray & canopy set up? I get that an All-Cab and probably also an AT Overland topper is more problematic to remove, but I think a key advantage of the Project M is ability to remove (plus volume if you need it).

[@Ooleteq]

Chinook for 24 🍻

[@SigmaWolfOutdoors]

TAV....Bowman..tray/bed

[@evanfredericksen7545]

Reach out to basils garage. They did a tray/canopy combo with a gfc pass thru

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Oh I know. I’ve seen it in person. It’s gangster

[@rafterwhomestead]

I ran a bedrack for a while, the vibrations cracked the top of my bedrails after a few years of daily driving wash-boarded gravel roads.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Yep, it'll do that for sure

[@donniehamlett2157]

What bout option 5 off-road trailer built with reg bed And camper top your option 2 or flatbed trailer setup like your option 3 that way you can keep your truck to do truck things or if there are extra people you can set it up like one of your first 2 option

[@ArkansasOffroad]

It's an option too! I thought about just doing a flatbed and pulling the trailer. But for just me, I feel like that would be excessive. For the fam, it would be the move.

[@HandyTot]

Option 4 is a Troopy

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Correct

[@freelander.1]

Do you play the intro of this song, yourself?

[@BakerOverland]

Option 4 is just a sawzall away. 😎

[@SigmaWolfOutdoors]

TAV bowen

[@ArkansasOffroad]

🤷🏼‍♂️

[@jacobreed1087]

What was the weight difference on all 3.? Chiming in from Conway,Ark Still debating getting Tacoma vs 2 door rubicon

[@ArkansasOffroad]

That's where I was born! Even within each option, weight can fluctuate. But it's possible to make them all relatively the same. I'd guess you're adding around 1,000-1500 lbs. Option 2 and 3 can do that in a hurry.

[@jacobreed1087]

@@ArkansasOffroad hell yeah. I’m looking for something that I can take off to the ozarks/ouachitas and wheel that’s pretty reliable. And maybe go out of state and do some overlanding. I’m just not very confident in these new jeeps reliability

[@timm668]

Sounds like you need a FWC on your tray.

[@smog6691]

I realize this video is 4 months old at this point but it just came across my feed. When mentioning option 4, I remembered seeing option 4 in another creators videos. All made by hand too. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnvbnqeor9l9fbM Not affiliated, just thought you'd be interested in seeing it. since this video, hes added features.

[@Nolgore]

Check out Drew Simms new setup.

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Oh I have. Well aware 🤌

[@dontask7898]

I'm not sure why people are still using wedge campers they are just not the better option.

[@batsy3763]

Yo what kind of boots were you wearing in the clips? They look sweet

[@ArkansasOffroad]

Thanks, those are Danners. Love them

[@outdoortrials]

Look up overlandundrrbudget. He has a taco he built that is basically camper flat bed.