Van Life VS. Truck Camper: Which Is Best?

In this video, join us as we delve into the world of van life versus truck camper life. With over 6 years of van life experience and now 7 months of truck camper living under our belts, we've got the inside scoop on the pros and cons of each lifestyle. Don't miss out on this insightful chat!
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[@CareyOnVagabond]

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[@mikegottholm7232]

I have a Ford F350 truck with the Cirrus 820 (met you both in Santos FL). One cost benefit of a truck camper, which may vary by state, is the absence of yearly taxes. In NC (and most states) a truck camper is considered "cargo". So you pay sales tax when you buy it, but nothing else afterwards. No yearly registration, license, property tax, etc.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Good point! Hope all is well. Maybe we’ll see you in Florida again this winter!

[@alaska-bornfloridaman]

This varies by state, I believe. But luckily for me, Florida doesn't require registration.

[@stahpit1971]

Just got our F350 and searching for a TC. No registration no tires no axles no hitch no extra insurance unless you want it.

[@LJ-jq8og]

What I don't like about the truck is the lack of stealth, in certain areas can make you a "target"... But that's our new world...

[@komtar7457]

For your next commercial RV or self-build, I'd like to remind you of the history of the "black" and "gray" tanks. A long time ago, it was more common and more permitted to dump gray water on the ground in certain places. Therefore, "black" waste was separated from "gray" waste, so that just gray could go to the ground where permitted. Nowadays, dumping even gray water on the ground is almost entirely prohibited almost everywhere. However, the separate black and gray tanks have persisted. Probably no average house separates gray and black waste. It all ends up down the same pipes to the same sewer, and nobody gets grossed out about that in their house, and there are no problems caused by that. Some people, however, get grossed out (for some unknown reason) if their RV has black waste mixed with gray waste, even though their house doesn't separate these. It's just psychology without basis. We have a bus motorhome and a campervan, each with a combo gray+black tank. Both black and gray go into the same tank, and it's the best setup, because the black gets plenty of dilution with the gray, and there's little need to flush out the black, because, well, it's already diluted with the gray. The combo gray+black keeps the single waste tank nicely rinsed and loose and mixed. We've not only never had any problems, their are only benefits. Our RVs are many many years old (40 years and 17 years), and we've never had a problem with clogs, sludge, smell, and, least of all, running out of black or gray waste space. The bus has a 100 gal combo black+gray, and the campervan has a 20 gal combo black+gray. The bus benefits especially from black+gray combo, because we have a washing machine, and when the washing machine drains into the waste tank, it nicely dilutes the waste and rinses out the black tank, especially if we're directly hooked up to a sewer. Also, gray water usually has soap, dishwashing liquid, shampoo, and detergent in it! The whole black and gray separation is nonsensical now that dumping of gray onto the ground is largely prohibited. How did our bus dump just gray water onto the ground back in the day? It has electric switches to divert gray water to external ports under the bus instead of into the waste tank. Needless to say, we don't use those anymore and send everything to the black+gray combo tank nowadays. So, for your future RV, you should build or buy a combo black+gray tank, and you can be the exception to the nonsensical black and gray separation, which is, first, a carryover from days gone by and, second, a play on psychology for people who are grossed out by the idea of a combo tank, even though their house doesn't separate black from gray. The RV industry plays on this psychology at the expense of the customer. Having one larger black+gray tank instead of trying to size a black tank and a gray tank separately will increase your capacity and flexibility for boondocking with less worry. You'll also keep your "black" tank cleaner and nicely diluted without using extra water to flush it out. Dumping a black+gray combo is simpler, too! I don't know how anyone can think that a 5 gal "cassette" black tank for a toilet makes any sense at all, but it satisfies delicate people who are otherwise grossed out for no reason.

[@charleshood]

I’ve been researching van life for a year, and now I want a truck camper. Thank you for making this video.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Our pleasure!

[@alaska-bornfloridaman]

I've had just about all types of RV, but Circled back to the truck camper, and am happy with it. It is the most versatile.

[@mjl9702]

You can get a flatbed truck camper for just a little more money. Those have even more space and a side entrance.

[@doctorkayak]

THANK YOU! I agree AND we evolve. I haven't even started yet. So far I'm planning on a truck with a bummer pull. I think I need the truck bed as a shed for my tools and STUFF!

[@rockyshore7017]

Looks like one happy dog.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

The best!!❤️

[@dantemarcos1410]

I appreciate the insights 😉👍

[@dlg5485]

Every time I think I've answered the class B vs truck camper question, I think of another factor that swings me back the other way. I want to do all kinds of travel... BLM/wilderness boondocking, urban/city camping, driveway surfing, etc and since no one type of rig can do everything, you have to give up something no matter which one you choose. I'm still leaning toward a truck camper, mainly due to lower cost and higher capability (as far as terrain), but there are so many trade-offs. It really is an impossibly difficult decision, but one thing is for sure, you have to go thru the process of figuring out what works for you and avoid copying what others are doing.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

There’s a bit of sacrifice for any type of RV. Just make your best choice and enjoy the good things! We wouldn’t trade our 6 years in a van and live what we have now. Maybe mindset has something to do with it to.🤷‍♂️😁🙌

[@dlg5485]

@@CareyOnVagabond Very true. I really do try to find the perfect product whenever making a significant purchase, but that won't be possible this time. I like the idea of enjoying the "good things" about the rig and not focusing so much on where it falls short.

[@LisaLightning]

Did you choose? We’re going through the same thing, it’s impossible to make the perfect choice.

[@dlg5485]

@@LisaLightning Not yet. Do to an unexpected financial burden, I decided to postpone this purchase for a while. I am still leaning toward a truck camper, though. The cost and capability advantages over a van are hard to ignore.

[@joniportwood1974]

Great insight into the comparison of the two options. I agree that a truck camper is easier to regulate temps inside.

[@stonecoldcougar]

Thank you for the great comparison!

[@rickbuchanan5762]

Biggest pro truck camper over van...I can stand up in a truck camper.

[@leahpearl6621]

I put 50,000 miles on my Sprinter chassis C in 2 years. I traded it in for my Sprinter chassis B. 80,000 miles in 4 years (slowed down travel during COVID-19 shutdown) I ordered the Winnebago Ekko and sold the B. I opted to pass on the Ekko and am new to a truck and truck camper setup now. I can relate to much of your list. My B had a much larger tank system and delightful dry bath setup. I had more storage at my fingertips with the van. I do enjoy being able to deconstruct my motorhome and have separate units. There are times I drive my truck without the camper.

[@richbowie76]

Tow the van with the truck camper . Like a guest house ! 😉👍✌

[@CareyOnVagabond]

🙌😁

[@freeradical77]

This is very timely as I am trying to decide if I should get a truck camper. I only have a half ton truck though, so will have to go with something light. Thank you!

[@daviddickerson8037]

We switched from steps, to a PakMule rear porch setup. The PakMule provides us a small area to step on while getting in & out of the door. It’s great when bringing in groceries and such.

[@hikenrv]

Nicely done! Great discussion! Sitting here camped surrounded by a few truck campers, some trailers, a class c and a few class b’s. Choose what fits best for your camping style! Our biggest concern with a class b is largely the cold/hot issue. Do love the ease of driving most places and the fuel economy though. Always trade offs.

[@LJ-jq8og]

Well presented !

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you!

[@Chris-ut6eq]

Thank you for a thoughtful discussion of this set of trade-offs between vehicles.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

You’re welcome:)

[@tinacathey8241]

Its much easier to dump a truck camp vs getting down on the ground. The do have truck campers with side doors. I also thought about the just getting up and driving vs having to get out and get into the truck as a solo person. I like the bigger space taller head room for me the truck camper wins. 😊

[@tanagrigg7366]

Good video. I was wondering why the switch after having the custom van built. I have been living in my Leisure Travel Van, coming up on five years. I can sure see the reasoning. I am alone and I think this is easier for me being alone. I do tow my Jeep Wrangler. Did a tour of Arches NP yesterday and that is easier in the Jeep. In another 1.5 years I can see me spending more time in one spot. Doing this alone is a lot of work. I will be 76 in July and in the next three or four years I can see myself in a tiny home. But, who knows 🤣🤣

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Who knows! 🤷‍♂️😁

[@lud5495]

Thank you so much. Really helpful in my journey of choosing a truck or a van❤

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Glad it was helpful!

[@terencebaxter4821]

Thank you. We considered many of these things when we decided to get a truck camper. My brother and his wife have a Winnebago Travato and I’ve had an opportunity to travel but not stay in it. I did notice some of the pluses and minus to his setup. Your video covers these differences very well and provided lots of helpful information.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks! It’s great that there are lots of options out there so people can travel the way they want to.

[@darinviar2376]

It was nice to see you guys and the new truck camper. Quite the set-up.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks Darin! Great to see you as always!

[@conchscooter]

Height (not heighth ) is an issue not many RVers think about so it’s a good point. The smallest vehicle you can live in is best but type of vehicle? That’s so personal. I’m so happy with my custom all electric van I can’t imagine climbing stairs and not having a pass through and all that. And I don’t much enjoy driving dirt and I only do it when I have to. Odd but true. Keep on enjoying.

[@Busyascanbe]

Wow….. this is one of the best videos I seen from y’all! Super informative! Y’all are awesome! And Pistol is …. Not spoiled but greatly loved! Thanks!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks! Not spoiled one.tiny.bit.😇😂

[@CC-kr2fs]

We had a huge camper with a slide on the back of a dodge dually deisel, and I miss it. Had a 5th wheel and a pull trailer also, don't miss them. A van would be too small. Thanks for confirming information. It boils down to what makes one happy, and I'm glad you 3 are,,,,thanx.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks:)

[@sammof7939]

from mrs: great vid! enjoyed your pro and cons list. Looking forward to future sourdough bread videos and travels.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Coming soon!

[@joeo8396]

We installed the mopeaka water tank sensor also. We love it.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We have the propane sensor but still need to install the water tank one. Such a good product!

[@rogerbrekas8239]

It's very interesting to hear everybody's different comments about what they like

[@CareyOnVagabond]

So many ways to travel and a type of RV to fit so many different needs and wants.

[@JodysJourney]

I’m so glad to hear you talk about driving the truck. Haha. I just switched from a small class A to a truck and trailer and thought it was just me having trouble seeing over the hood and not seeing the lines. But, yeah, getting accustomed. I also concur with how you want to travel affects your RV choice. I thought I wanted to just be a vagabond (😊) but found I like stopping for awhile and exploring. And I also like having my home away from the driving section.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Did you think you needed a booster seat like Dave?😂😂 Glad you found your way to travel!!!

[@JodysJourney]

@@CareyOnVagabond I did get me one of those memory foam cushions at first and it helped. Haha. But it kind of became a hassle so I just put on my big girl pants and took it out. 🤣

[@SpknTC13]

I'm a truck camper girl all the way! This is our 3rd setup and our best being an F450 & Arctic Fox 865. I have no problem taking it out solo and haven't felt fearful because I try hard to watch my surroundings. We're not full-timers and don't plan to be however, we do still take long trips down south (snowbird) and many outings around home base. There's so much positive with a truck camper. We'll be heading to Arizona after the holidays so maybe we'll run into you two. Cheers! ~M

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Cheers!!

[@Mitzi73]

Is there a way to get from the bed to the driver’s seat without getting out of the camper? This is the biggest drawback of truck camping for me. Otherwise I agree with everything you said plus an Arctic Fox camper is a nice thing to have.

[@SpknTC13]

@@Mitzi73 Thanks! Unfortunately I have to get out of the TC to get in the truck. Some TCs have a pass through window but they're pretty small and not all truck windows line up with it.

[@luckyjim51]

I want a 4x4 promaster.... it's really hard to beat the Box...😎 I've had trucks and there're just a beast to live with.... Enjoy!

[@stevekunz6573]

I have an older terrier, we got a folding dog ramp for our truck camper, Angus loves it and so does my back.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Great idea! We’ll look into them, thanks!

[@dhawkr.3678]

The best of voth world would be the production of the Tacozilla or TundZilla. A truck camper pass-through.

[@tomgraulty4988]

Like your table!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thank you!

[@funzeevanzee]

Great info.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks for watching!

[@stephenhall5421]

Love Humble Road builds - just stumbled on your channel (probably due to YT algorithm)…

[@ryanrich2479]

Good video

[@sasquatch885]

We had our truck camper for ten years, and loved it. Unfortunately the doesn’t want to travel anymore.

[@traciwilliams5673]

He reminds me of Hulk Hogan😊👍🏽

[@mickylawless1941]

I am torn. I love the idea of an E350/3500 high top van with 4x4. Not the unibody vans being built today. But I also like the idea of a truck camper set up where I could drive out from under the camper to use the truck for other "truck" things. If (or when) I hit the road full time, I may go with the old school van w/high top and 4x4, mostly because they are far less bulky and quite a bit lighter. And as a bit older person, getting in and out of a van is much easier. The important thing is to just get out there and adventure. All hail the Green Bean Queen and please remember to... Carey On!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Tough call sometimes but you just have to enjoy what you have when you have it😉😁

[@pcsteve6072]

Your RV needs to reflect your travel style and vice versa. We are currently in a truck and small trailer. Definitely quieter and we enjoy exploring without all our stuff. We average 3 day stays. Boondocking out west in good weather is great. Back east, you are fighting heat, humidity and living in fear of "the knock". This year's heat has made me appreciate campgrounds with hookups. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

There is definitely an RV for every preferred type of travel!🙌

[@justlucky13]

Great topic I've been curious how you were liking the truck and camper My first purchase was truck and camper mostly so I could tow my Jeep or ski boat had two then fifth wheel now class B van pulling 7x16 solar/utility trailer hauls my bikes and extra gear I like have everything with me too. I'm staying here in Waldport area vacation house you've been here the weather is perfect here on the Oregon coast back in Salt Lake where I'm from over 100 today too hot!!!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

The weather has been so nice here!

[@geogypsytraveler]

I've lived in just about everything but a pop-up, including a van, and returned several times to a truckcamper. But the steps SUCK!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We just look at them as a bit of extra workout throughout the day 😁

[@patriciabarnhart1886]

In today’s environment I would think that theft would always be a concern when unloaded in a park should one want to disconnect for whatever reason. My husband and I both owned and traveled with all types throughout the years until he passed away. I do like that nice large dinette window!

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Love our big windows!

[@lancesmith1908]

Grammar police :). Should be "which is better" when comparing two things. Very good comparison, thanks for doing it.

[@micktepolt6276]

Carey On !

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Cheers!

[@thosg1750]

Do you see a difference between a van and truck camper with ability to keep out dust and pests such as mice and spiders, etc?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Definitely. The separation of the truck and camper does make it harder for critters to sneak in from underneath and the engine compartment. We had mice several times in our first van.

[@James-tt7vg]

Great video Thanks !!! I was wondering what is the compatibility for solar in the Truck Camper...as opposed to a camper Van...Thanks !

[@CareyOnVagabond]

A little less room on our camper but still room for enough solar for us.

[@journeywithserenity5655]

There is a truck camper with the door on the side. It's made by Lance. I can't recall the model number.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Cool, thanks:)

[@jesseobrien5864]

I have 2 bad shoulders and a dog that will need air conditioning. What's my best option. I'll need to do remote work too.

[@user-jo4lr8it6p]

Do you stay in campgrounds very often and if so, do all campgrounds except truck campers. Thinking of purchasing one and I was just wondering.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Never heard of a campground not accepting a truck camper. Maybe some expensive RV parks but we have never stayed in any of those.

[@TheSkiseeks]

Thanks again. “This might not be an easy time There's rivers to cross and hills to climb Some days we might fall apart And some nights might feel cold and dark When nobody wins afraid of losing And the hard roads are the ones worth choosing Some day we'll look back and smile And know it was worth every mile” - Chris Stapleton - kzbin.info/www/bejne/apXUnKibdsiKh6c

[@CareyOnVagabond]

One of Irene’s favorite song lyrics, nobody wins afraid of losing.❤️

[@daviddarlingauthor]

One question... what about insurance? I've looked into getting insurance for a van conversion, and the companies (if they will insure a self-built van) are quoting RV insurance. But for the trucks, the camper trailers are attached, and automatically insured. Have you done a video on solar, and energy consumption? You mentioned a battery upgrade.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We had a commercial rv van and a custom built van that we had registered as an rv. Every state has different rules in this. Our full time rv insurance in the vans was cheaper than our truck insurance. We also have a separate policy on the truck camper. We have done some recent videos on our battery system.

[@PeteLeuenberger]

If you use it mostly in urban areas and cities, than van is justifiable. Otherwise it's mainly a trendy thing to do. Truck campers beats van on every item hands down. For one thing, outfitted vans will never have decent insulation. Period. On the other hand, a truck camper has a simple straight shape and is much easier to insulate very well. All of the outfitting will be more expensive in a van, due to the small size and the specialized shape. So for your buck, you'll get much more bang with a truck camper. In Europe, van is the way to go because you can't access many places with larger vehicles. In the US, truck camper is the smart choice. The only advantage with a van is to not have to deal with loading/unloading, tie downs and all that.

[@katjacobs9056]

Did you make a Video about traveling with your Dog?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

We haven’t but it’s not a bad idea. Seems normal to us after all these years but I guess it’s not:)

[@barackmycat9448]

How about mileage and cost of fuel? Cost of travel is never cheap. I always wanted to see a passage in a truck camper to the back. That would be cool but you guys have the back seat garage full.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

As we mentioned in the video we definitely got better mileage in the van.

[@robfninh]

@@CareyOnVagabond Sorry I missed it.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

No worries!

[@LisaLightning]

I saw some videos mentioning other people doing pass-throughs into the truck from the camper. But I have not actually seen it done.

[@kenfox22]

Pretty wife lucky 🍀 dog. Why look so solem. At ease soldier. Smile

[@kemonary]

Hi, I'm m new to the TC. I have a plastic bed linner do i need to remove it or just lay the rubber mat over the plastic tia

[@CareyOnVagabond]

I don’t know exactly what you have but I only use a rubber mat.

[@tommyg5346]

I swear this is Anthony Bourdain......is it just me?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

😂

[@traciwilliams5673]

Couldn’t you build a pass thru under your bed to the front of the truck?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

It wouldn’t be easy and even if we did our back seat is full of bikes and boats. 😁

[@snowbirdlady7221]

Curious which Cirrus model you chose.

[@CareyOnVagabond]

The 820! Super happy with the 2022 model.

[@snowbirdlady7221]

Thanks! I will check it out.@@CareyOnVagabond

[@oscaroska7613]

Who people offerd thr money when they consistently moving

[@sherronwalls3560]

I am convinced Bostons love to lick because of salt on skin from sweat. Lol they are super affectionate but very food motivated. Love Love Love Bostons but just my guess. I have a grand dog that is a Boston and we are real tight. I enjoyed your subject matter nice to understand the benefits of truck camping but your pup is just so cute. I agree induction annoys me too

[@CareyOnVagabond]

She is so food driven! And yes, she loves it when Dave comes back sweaty from a run so she can lick his legs. 😂

[@clarkleakins879]

This is probably the best van vs camper thoughts ever well expressed through personal experiences. Regarding vehicle height awareness: Does any company make a roof camera that can display, possibly alert, to overhead interference? Like a back up camera shows a grid, alarms when getting closer. Maybe, a sweeping laser, similar to what a contractor remodeling can set on a tripod that indicates level on all of the walls. Maybe i have a product idea here?

[@CareyOnVagabond]

Thanks! Sounds like a good product idea;)