Why a TRUCK CAMPER and NOT a VAN!

[@michaelhart5070]

My dad let me stay in his truck camper on the side of the house. i am grateful its rent free here. small though. but i got heater, fridge ps5 and 4k tv. even got a porta potty in the tiny bathroom closet too. it has saved me from being homeless in a tent as well.

[@jimmyhvy2277]

Good on Dad ! Hope things workout for you !

[@kjf63]

I go all kinds of out of the way places with my van, it’s fully self-contained and equipped, including generator and full solar. I love northern light and Bigfoot truck campers, but there’s one thing a van has that a truck camper will almost never have and that is the ability to transit between the cockpit and the living space. I love that. My seat swivel and I’ve got a big cab over bunk. So I shopped both, van won!

[@thefinalboss2403]

Are you sure never? Because I can. Build it yourself. Truck campers are not hard to build and you can make the quality better than any camper on the market for 1/10th the cost. I chose to build a flatbed camper for even more room and I can easily move from the camper to cab without stepping outside. The truck camper will always be the most versatile and cheapest way to live this life comfortably.

[@kjf63]

@@thefinalboss2403 oh yes, of course, I’m not saying that it can’t be done, I’m just not saying it’s something that is usually available off the shelf so to speak. There are a few campers built for flatbed trucks. That sort of access is probably a possibility. In terms of building one yourself that’s just not something anyone can do you have to have space tools, knowledge… All that stuff I don’t have. 😊

[@blueman5924]

Dude. I live in BC and I am quite certain that you cannot buy a decent HD truck for $10 grand, let alone a decent 4season camper like your nice Northern Lite for $5 grand. I spend a lot of time looking at the internet sales platforms, and prices are ridiculous for high milage units, like 20-25 g’s for an 07 gm/chev diesel or 6.0 3/4 ton. Maybe, maybe an F250/350 with 250,000 km for 10 g’s., if its an ex-oil patch truck. yuck. But… I’m with you that the portability and compact footprint of a truck/camper unit is advantageous. I love my ‘02 gm rc/long box and my 1979 Okanagan camper, though I cannot do cold weather use, as it is 3 season at best. Happy trails and safe adventures in 2024. 🍁🤙

[@SquatchNomad]

I agree with you on that. I looked for months. Ended up getting a really clean 2002 F250 7.3 powerstoke for $16k. The 2001 Fleetwood camper cost $5k, which was in good shape. I'm down in northern CA.

[@its_hammer_time3694]

Of course it’s BC!! a mars bar is $10 😂 come to the east coast.. way cheaper out here ✌🏻🇨🇦

[@StepvanDan]

I had a truck camper for 4 years but i love my van man lol thanks for sharing big hugs from MN

[@gregbumgardner3006]

With a van you go from sleep area to drivers seat without going outside. But thts just my opinion. You like your truck camper, thats great. Happy camping, to each their own.

[@harrymills2770]

You also have quite a climb to get up into a truck camper.

[@wayneukes2438]

they have foldout stairs@@harrymills2770

[@anthonysears871]

Vans are tool boxes on wheels. And you are NOT going anywhere near off road in a van!😂 vans are proof you can sell ice to eskimos!

[@JohnnyButtons]

I’ve always felt the same way. A camper van you never have to set foot outside in rain or snow 😉

[@JohnnyButtons]

@@anthonysears871I have videos of my 4x4 van driving through 3-feet of snow after a blizzard on my other KZbin channel #MuscleCarTimeMachine and it was an absolute beast off road as well lol.

[@LivingOnCash]

I have both a van and a truck camper. The camper has way more room inside and more amenities. It is also 4x4 with a 6" lift on 35's so it can go places the van can't. But, it is also much bigger than the van so that can limit where you go. The van is much easier to park and fit in smaller places. The biggest advantage of the van is the ability to just pull over somewhere and get to the back without having to go outside, especially in inclement weather. I usually travel with two dogs and that is easier with the van. One other factor is the safety aspect if you ever want to leave an area in a hurry. Lastly, it is less conspicuous if you want to sleep in an area where camping is prohibited. I'm not an urban guy and never do stealth camping in a city but some rest areas say no overnight camping. With the van, I'm just a vehicle parked in a regular parking spot. With the camper, it looks like I'm camping if in the back with lights on. If a cop looks inside the cab and can't see anyone he is going to know you are in the back. I use the van for road trips and travel most of the time. I use the camper if I'm going to be camping for longer periods and will be in camp grounds or dispersed camping out in the boonies.

[@wildcatoutdoors]

That truck heater it a sweet feature. As a southerner we dont get into too bad of winters but this was neat.

[@themetalmaiden7462]

I was back and forth between getting a van and having it converted to 4x4, building out the van into a camper van, or trying to find a 4x4 motorhome. I finally decided on getting an older 4x4 truck and a truck camper for many of the same reasons you laid out. The biggest reason being price. 4x4 vans and motorhomes are outrageous in price. I recently got the truck, now I'm looking for the right camper for me.

[@scottbaker9200]

Thank you sir. Affordability and versatility are what most of us need. I’ve been able to use my truck year round, pull a trailer, and use the overhead camper. I can’t afford to have a separate vehicle at the price of a van. It is cool that different folks are able to make a van work for them. Keep making videos, brother!

[@bernadettetibazi7893]

I live in a van. I built it myself. I have a lot of power and amenities, even a small wood stove. However I wish I wouldn’t have bothered and gone with a 4 by 4 truck and camper. But I’ve put so much into this van I’m sticking with it for now anyway!

[@hughwolfe1176]

Very convincing… Subscribed and waiting for more videos while I “catch up” on the older ones.

[@cindi988]

🤩 WOW WHAT GORGEOUS VIEWS

[@alphatruckhouse8223]

I'm all In on the TC , 4th yr. now livin my best life F/T ~peace~

[@robertdodd9623]

The most Beautiful campsite I believe I have ever seen. All campers have advantages and disadvantages, but your rig makes the best sense for Boondocking in my opinion.

[@rvnut1133]

I agree, Truck Camper was also my option for the same reason and a few others.

[@LeonaRasalas]

I have been looking at truck campers for over a year now and I have come to the conclusion that Northern Lite is one of the best with the features I need. Can’t wait to get mine.

[@pauldiestelhorst7681]

I like my mini-van camper. I don't have to get out of my warm cab to get to the living space. It is great for stealth camping in the city, never a knock. I don't need 4x4 where i go. I understand you can go places i can't ,i say why take the risk of getting stuck. Even 4x4 get stuck.

[@barryhansen3168]

I really like my Sprinter camper van for that reason - I can easily step into the back when I stop. Everything is right there and available. I do go offroad and use its 4x4 feature but it's mostly decent forest service roads and nowhere really wild. For truck campers, I hate the thought of going outside every time I want to fetch something from a truck's cab.

[@heartsong1555]

I agree that if you want to get further off the beaten path, a truck camper is better because of the truck 4x4 advantage. But I am fine just going on well maintained dirt roads so I am happy with my van. I also like what others mentioned-- With the Van, you don't have to get out of the Van to get into your camper area. And it also makes the camper area bigger to have the Van cab included in the space.

[@OOOOutdoorOffGridOverland]

Off road capabilities are a must. One thing to consider is trees wich can fall on you during storms. Most campers/rv do not offer any protection.

[@corywadedavis]

Had a 1st gen Sprinter, loved it but it was very small. Now have a 3/4 ton Duramax and smallish Bigfoot and really love it! Great layout and features and I can take it off my truck and do truck stuff. The Sprinter had an Espar engine heater, kinda like what you're showcasing in the beginning of the video. It had a timer programmer so you could set it for early mornings before departure and have a warm engine. Brilliant feature and my next diesel truck will have one.

[@Metalrogue]

Great video, thanks for sharing. I've always liked truck campers. My family drove from California to Vermont and back in a full size Ford cabover camper back in 77. Would love to have the same type of setup, just having a hard time finding an economical option.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

You’re absolutely right, whatever floats your boat, the point is to get out there and enjoy. For instance my preferred method of camping is tent camping, I have a 4x4, off road and pitch my tent. Lately I’ve been contemplating between a truck (preferably) or a van. I’m a 66 year old woman and although still pitching my tent since I camp solo mostly I’m developing arthritis and having a vehicle to sleep in might come handy, still bringing my tent since I’m very stubborn lol. My dilemma is the height of the truck with bad knees could be an issue but not being able to stand up in a van could be another issue. In other words I’m extremely confused at this point, I’ll take my time to make a decision and meanwhile I’ll keep tent camping because you’ll never ever see me in an RV, that’s certainly not me but I’m not stopping, I have already a plan going to Yosemite in April and keep going to probably Sequoia consecutively. The advantage of retirement is you never have a schedule to follow, I’m like a kid with allowance but no homework, a very old kid lol. Thanks for the informative video.

[@XPLRNW]

Cool video and awesome location. Fellow KZbinr from the PNW. Nothing beats the outdoors.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Thank you!!!

[@davidsradioroom9678]

You make some very good points!

[@deandee8082]

they are making real nice 4 wheel drive cargo vans these days that make phenomenal riggs and yes they are spendy today, but if the bottom falls out of the car market as I suspect they will be trying to give those away, hale yes and they make them in diesel! a nice diesel 4x4 cargo van . . . but the part about being able to detach the camper is real nice...

[@bigshash9946]

Nice rig and content, brother.

[@godrulesme8619]

Great information..thank you!

[@audisportcarrasco]

Thinking about a palomino on 85 4 runner I need a pass thru for safety I got 400hp turbo on 6 inch lift 37” wheel My well is 10” and 32” floor to bottom of door I sold My Sportsmobile van 2011 can’t go all the places And needed more clearance for rock crawling and one thing with the camper you can drop it of the van ur stuck palomino got huge shower the bed area is kinda like a Winnebago attic setup I used to have a 34 feet full blown camper but the regular campsites are $1000 month it was almost like Rent so sold it plus it’s too big turning all that and get stuck cost You $500 towing

[@Sirskibumsalot]

Been in a truck / camper rig now for over 20 years . On my 4th camper and 2nd truck . But yea I agree with you on your opinions . Last truck I bought was $12,000 , camper $6000 ....and other campers I have owned were $200 , $500, $3000 ....the cheaper they are the more repairs and rebuilding you have to do , but worth it if you have the skills . I travel and fly fish and snow ski out of mine . A few upgrades along the way and I'm a happy camper .....cheers and safe travels to all 🙋🏻‍♂️🐶

[@WanderingNature]

Thank you for posting

[@20111111jorg]

Our first camper was a popup camper on a work truck - a F150 long bed. We weren't sure we would like camping so bought the cheapest one we could for it, and had a great time! You're one of the few who has a long bed and short cab, in my opinion the best way to go to keep your rig short and maximize camper space. And I agree, the cheapest way to get a small 'expedition vehicle'. But... due to grandkids we now have a Winnebago view on a MB chassis. Very spacious but no 4X4. The one nice thing about a van though, you can access the back while driving for snacks and even the bathroom if your the passenger.

[@mikestevens2053]

Advantages to truck camper: you likely have a heavier-duty rig, you only have one rig (to purchase, maintain, insure, park, etc), and (if you have storage space) you can return your rig to truck configuration for the 90% of the time you're not camping. Advantages to an adventure van: everything else, including much greater comfort and convenience while actually traveling and camping.

[@thomaswilliams2273]

I imagine an advantage to a van would be lower height, meaning you're more likely to be able to park in a garage, go through drive-throughs, and be less top heavy. Of course this also means less headroom. I would also wonder about drinking and driving laws in a van if you wanted to drink.

[@A2J_Tim]

I want to share a dual purpose idea with you. Get a diesel heater to heat your truck camper, then plumb the exahuast of said heater through a heat exchanger aka an old EGR cooler off of a diesel truck, and plumb the coolant side of the EGR cooler into your heater core lines and you now have effectively used the waste exhaust off the heater to keep the trucks antifreeze warm which will also keep the engine warm while heating your truck camper at the same time. You can mount that EGR cooler any where on the truck but depending on the location you choose you may need to add a circulation pump to move circulate the anti freeze.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

That is a great idea and sounds like quite a bit of work! Thank you for sharing!

[@A2J_Tim]

@@KevinWaldsAdventures Or since you have that wabasto set up already, you could take the the hot line coming off the unit, run it to a heat exchanger aka mini radiator and put it in the furnace area of your truck camper and let that unit supply hot water to it that would heat your living space in the camper. then take the cold line back to the engine, which will still be fairly warm. This would also give you a dual purpose for your engine heater. Although I think this would be more work than what I suggested already. What does your current furnace set up use for a fuel source?

[@portnuefflyer]

As efficient as the diesel heaters are (I have one in my crane cab) I don't know if there is enough waste BTU's going out the stack to be worth it. There's also something perhaps to be said in not cooling the exhaust down too much, just like a warm home chimney draws better than a cooler one, though that's a poor analogy. I will try and remember while craning tomorrow to put my hand by the exhaust, never have.

[@A2J_Tim]

@@portnuefflyer most diesel heaters have the exhaust flowing downward in order to eliminate condensation build up which can obstruct the exhaust flow if it freezes, so as long as you put the heat exchanger on in a manor that has the exhaust flowing down, it shouldn't be a problem to strip as much heat off the exhaust as possible.

[@portnuefflyer]

@@A2J_Tim Yesterday I held my bare hand by my crane's Espar heater exhaust, 19 degrees, and it was running at full output. It was even cooler than I thought it'd be....., a long ways from anything described as hot, not even warm! I'd guesstimate it at 60 degrees or less. With the inevitable losses from any heat exchanger process (I use several, for a large solar hydronic radiant floor heat system) I still say it would not be even close to being worth the effort. If you're thinking it's hot, it's not! That's a good thing, and helps explain why I can run mine so long with such little fuel needed, they are amazingly efficient, with not enough waste heat to mention.

[@alt7288]

Great video, thanks

[@luminyam6145]

That was an excellent video. I also appreciate a fellow Canadian's viewpoint.💖

[@Lovecamping290]

Hey Kevin good morning from expensive BC,, I am reading alot of the comments from here,,Truck and camper for me,,I downsized from a 2022 XLT Super Duty 6.7 power stroke 350 was a beast of a truck and a 25ft Astoria 5th wheel, too much monthly payments after awhile, Glad I did that, So when came time to get set up again I found a 93 GMC 3500 1 ton for $5000.00 7.4 454, named Guzzler, for obvious reasons, lol, then when camper time found a 92 9ft Okanagan camper for $12,000 in the middle of December, and he delivered it for me as I did not have the frame rails installed at that time,,Both items in excellent condition, but like anything second hand ,,needed some minor repairs and upgrades, and I am lucky enough to have a best friend who is a heavy duty mechanic and RV owner and he helps me with the repairs and upgrades,,I prefer the truck and camper for my size, 6'4 and too fat and old to use a tent, did that when younger,, and yes see alot of opinions about the price of second hand campers and trucks here in BC, they are absolutely spot on for here, terribly over priced here for trucks and beat to crap , so you know you would be buying someone elses headaches, anyways , love your content, someday pull the trigger and travel around in my retirement,,take care and be safe out there,

[@willk7184]

Great info dude, thanks.

[@heartsong1555]

I agree that if you want to get further off the beaten path, a truck camper is better because of the truck 4x4 advantage. But I am fine just going on well maintained dirt roads so I am happy with my van. I also like what others mentioned-- With the Van, you don't have to get out of the Van to get into your camper area. And it also makes the camper area bigger to have the Van cab included in the space.

[@ShadareaRapt]

This makes so much sense.

[@wilbobblehead2219]

I want 100% agree with you, the truck camper is a way better choice than going with the van, great job buddy......

[@brad9745]

Totally waffling between the van and camper. So i appreciate this video.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I really think either or are awesome in each their own way!

[@matthewhoopes4440]

I had a van. 11 yrs. Outfitted the inside myself. Lived in it over 4 yrs. Part of that time I was going to nursing school. Fast forward a couple yrs and I'm literally now in a truck camper on my way to another nursing contract in TN. I'm also pulling an enclosed trailer with my street and dirt bike in it. Loved the van but also love my TC set up. I should also make a video myself. Much h depends on budget. Hard to go wrong with either.

[@brad9745]

@@matthewhoopes4440 thanks for the insight

[@CharlesAnsman]

Nice setup

[@deltabravo1257]

The other problem with camper style vans is their very low tow capacity once they are outfitted as a class B or B+ van or small class C style motorhome. I recently have found that most class B style RVs, the manufacturer of the RV conversion won't even list a tow rating. I started doing research on that aspect after looking at a bunch of vans / class B and Class C RVs about 2 weeks ago at an RV show. The way I use my truck and camper, I tow a trailer all the time. I want the flexibility of towing up to 7,000 lbs, which my rig is totally capable of with the camper loaded on my truck.

[@johndeere450lc8]

yep it is the ticket and you can drag your trailer with toys also that truck you got i got frount hub conversion too. all that dont need to spin all the time

[@Wanderers733]

I agree! We love our truck camper. My husband is 6’5”, and can’t stand up straight inside a van, but he can stand up in our Lance 650. Our footprint is no bigger than most vans, not even as big as some with the long wheel base, but we have lots more room inside.

[@celestepalm6949]

I can't wait to go winter camping in my SmartCar!

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I can’t wait air to watch the videos!

[@celestepalm6949]

@@KevinWaldsAdventures Yeah, watch my SmartCar freeze into a SmartCube. 🤣

[@scottthejeepguy7499]

Thank you for sharing

[@boostedlss6450]

Subbed! I went full time 05/22, and the one big thing I learned when doing my research for a truck camper setup, was that, IMO, about 75% of the rigs you see are overweight. I was amazed at the low weight of your camper, that is like a 1200 lb difference over a new 9-6. A lot of guys told me, "oh yeah, you can do that on a 3/4 ton" and sure you probably could, but it damn sure wouldn't be safe. All kitted out, I'm probably approaching 4000lbs, so finding the right truck for me was the biggest headache, as many of the trucks I was looking at in '22 were instantly snapped up by US brokers and shipped south, and honestly I probably bought at the worst time, but you only live once right? I also went by the unofficial rule, "buy your last RV first" and this thing has not disappointed! Happy trails! '22 NL 9-6 QLE no scratches lol, '17 Silverado HD 3500 DRW

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Right on man! I also paid too much for a 2005 ram 2500 lol! but yes we do only live once!

[@Weathernerd27]

I'm a construction worker who gets sent to jobsites all over the Seattle Metro Area and often have horrendous commutes, there are construction sites near my condo but I rarely get sent to them. The Van is a much better choice for me because its stealthier and you need to be really stealthy when you are camping in the city. I can park the Van almost anywhere so long as I don't come to the sleeping spot until dusk and black out my windows. I do alot of hiking and outdoor stuff to and while the Van isn't great on snow and dirt with chains and careful driving I can get to most trailheads. I do wish I had more space and more off road capability but being able to go back to my condo on weekends and live more normally makes it tolerable, it would be hard to live in the small Van 24/7.

[@drunkvegangal8089]

I appreciate the tiny, fiberglass trailer n car combo and the truck n camper combo but as a single woman I chose a 1995 Pleasure Way van so, if something/someone was bothering me I could just step up front and drive away. Wouldn't want to step outside a trailer to drive off and not sure I could fit through those tiny windows that line up on the truck/camper combo - especially half asleep :D

[@Sedona-Faise]

Nice setup my man! Have the same one roll up windows and all....Tree branches are its only kryptonite. Just keep it under 2k in dry weight. FYI...a set of later model Laramie seats are an easy game changer upgrade.

[@toxicslix]

in 2000 I bought a 1989 Ford F250 4x4 with one of those 70s campers on it with the brown and orange interior....cost me like 5,000 Canadian. The truck was a big Windsor 351 on Propane with two monster tanks... Loved it!! Big enough for me and my now Ex wife. Sold the truck in 2009 moved to Nelson and picked up a 97 F150 and was going to consider a new lightweight camper, but it never happened. I'm definitely considering another one.. maybe a Diesel F250 or something.

[@BabyBlue.23]

The ford idi diesels are nice because you can run a diesel mix cut with WMO or WVO for increased efficiency on long drives.

[@toxicslix]

@@BabyBlue.23 Yeah I thought about upgrading my 97 for the WVO system. But then divorce happened and I didn't have the cash, since i needed the lawyer more. LOL...maybe in the next year or so..

[@francisderoest5850]

Love the idea of the diesel heater! Can you give me some specifics on make/model etc? Thanks, and love your vid's.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I have another vid on it, its actually a Chinese one and I don't exactly recommend it lol finicky thing it is

[@francisderoest5850]

@@KevinWaldsAdventures Thanks for the reply!

[@Surrendxr]

Enjoy the videos keep it up man

[@staric4863]

Camper trucks are the best to go anywhere on our public lands back roads, okay. But this is really expensive. A good class B from the 80S (Dodge :)) with decent tires and a good differential locker (cable) and you're in business for such roads too. Some clever RV companies from BC like Islander or Westside Vans had made interesting wider, roomier class B campers, equipped like a class C (toilet/shower, oven, etc). Never heard about the guy who stayed stuck in his camper truck almost two days because of a hungry grizzly in the Squamish valley? In a van, you have direct access to the driving position. A must for me in such wild lands.

[@smsjr36]

Wish the pass through(s) on trucks and truck camper was bigger so you don’t have to get out

[@eloyrodarte1083]

I lived in a van for six years. I stopped to look at a friend's truck camper he had for sale. When we sat at the dinette for a visit, I knew I was buying it. It's been three years now and I don't regret having it. I love this thing. I still own the van, but haven't slept in it in three years. The truck camper is the way to go for mobil living. I gave up drive-ups but gained a much higher quality of life. It's alot funner than the van. After having the truck camper, I can't believe I lived in a van for six years.

[@MinKim-cv9ee]

can you elaborate as to pros and cons of each? I am very curious

[@dsonnek7781]

Few money items, truck campers don't need tabs like trailers. Just guessing insurance will be cheaper, especially on the $100-$250K vans. But new large truck prices are trying to catch up.

[@snowmans_cave]

Well if some one had a plan or idea of what they wanted and where on the fence of what side to go with meaning to go with a van or truck bed camper or even a caravan even. I would say and tell people to go with a van that has 4x4 buildnit out then you get a furniture moving trailer and you build that out as ur bathroom and toliet

[@stevelauda5435]

I'd prefer a truck camper because I like the fact that you can dismount the camper and have it parked at campsite while you go out day tripping or getting groceries. Plus I am not interested in towing, a truck camper let's you get away with that. They now have pull out sides for more room too these days. I like your set up it's nice.

[@Greyskydies]

I like my van, but this weekend I could not make it up a hill that had a bunch of ice on it and while that doesn’t seem like a big deal, my tundra would have eaten that hill up. So, it felt very limiting and I got a good ribbing from my buddy who’s to Ian had zero problems. Of course he didn’t have a camper, so he had to deal with roof top tent, climbing in and out of his truck etc…. It’s more like a electric Honda ridge line than a truck, but you know what I mean. Hard to say what the best rig is. It’s not something you tow, that’s limiting, but vans and campers are limiting too. Cool set up. And you are right, I’m in my van roughly a 100k for a 4x4 sprinter and did the conversion myself. Total pain in the butt. Seems like way too much now that it’s done.

[@SIUDR7202]

I have a 8ft Toyota Tundra 4x4. I have been looking for a camper for it for around 10-14k. If I found one it has so much rot or needing at least a total overhaul. I don’t know what it’s like in Canada but in the USA the sellers think they are selling a gold mine. I have been looking at everything from a hard shell to a pop-up. Not happening!!!!

[@jimbrookfield9011]

Crazy prices on truck campers

[@Lord_Stinkfoot]

Good points

[@harrymills2770]

You can also detach the camper and do all your exploring without all the extra weight and bulk. I went with an off-road mini-camper. It doesn't have the built-in conveniences, but I already have camping gear (and buying more is a hobby). If I could find a truly light-weight pop-up canopy for my truck, I would be interested, but the lightest ones are still too heavy for my taste. I bought a heater plug for my engine block in Gunnison, where it regularly dropped to -20 or -30 at night. I never heard of a diesel heater that warmed up the antifreeze and pumped it throughout the system. Did you have to do anything special to get the thermostat to open up, or is it just circulating the antifreeze in the radiator? Or did I just misunderstand you? In any case, having a diesel warmer-upper would be good for off-grid. You might be able to store enough juice to run a heater plug at night. They don't draw a whole lot. But it'd be better for off-grid if you had something that wasn't dependent on electricity. I was religious about plugging in at night, but if I was in the mountains, off-grid, I just had to do without.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I have a video in the plans to explain the diesel pre heater! I also have an electric block heater, I’ll use that when I have free electricity and it works really well too. The mini camper sounds sweet!

[@PetesNorthShoreAdventureCo]

Great vid. I like your rig , the truck looks sweet with the 37s, your obviously in the west in sweet terrain. Im down in Southern ont and have a stealth cruiser minivan fully blacked out. I was fortunate to buy my van new in 2019 before stuff went bananas. I can stay in any city on any block or at most beaches unnoticed but my off roading is very compromised. I'd love to have a spare $150G to experiment and see what I prefer 👍 cheers

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

That’s awesome man! Main thing is just getting out with what you can afford and justify spending! My rig is like a t-Rex in a jewelry shop! lol

[@kfbob364]

If you stay on paved roads or light gravel roads, then a van is probably the best way to go if you have a lot of money. If you are 4 wheeling then a truck is your only choice. The only durable 4wd van is an econoline conversion. The sprinter is so fragile that it will break off road. Knew a guy who had to replace his sprinter van axle at 12,000 dollars better to convert a ford econoline.

[@troythomas2024]

I agree

[@beer1for2break3fast4]

OK man I am in BC and those campers are way more than 5 grand and a 1 ton 4x4 with any life left in it will cost you more than 10 grand. I'd be skeptical of a deal like that. You have a nice rig.

[@deltabravo1257]

Truck campers are awesome, ask me how I know! I've been a truck camper owner since November of 2009. I'm on my second Arctic Fox right now. A truck camper is still the best RV for my needs. New subscriber!

[@ParadoxdesignsOrg]

i just like the fact it has roll up windows

[@boondockingamerica]

I am not sure about your price point on the truck and camper. A new truck and camper will cost about $180,000.00 , that said, your point on point about being able to separate them if the truck breaks down is 100 % on point . Our truck was in the shop for 2 weeks . If we had a van , we would have ended up with an $1800 to $2400 dollar motel bill if we had been in a van.

[@gatortrades]

I think I saw your truck and camper last week. Are you in the southeast? I was driving from Asheville to Tampa and I’m a fan of Northern Lite so I remember.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Nope I am in northwest Alberta

[@terryfairservice7850]

You seem to be living in a different Canada, that I do. Those prices were available 4 years ago, but in 2024 you can expect to pay 4 times more.

[@jackstitt1395]

You bring about some great points. This whole "van-life" movement is going to pass. You clearly laid out why a truck camper is a much better way to go.

[@tybrady4598]

Ground clearance and 4WD low are two great reasons for a truck camper if you plan to be in the back country. I’m starting off with a Toyota minivan. It will be stealth, but I sure won’t be able to get back into wilderness. It’s a trade-off.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Lots of people still make it work with a minivan even, just take it slow and you should be fine on most gravel roads in summer! just avoid the rutted bad roads and know its better to turn around than put yourself into a bad situation.

[@Wanderers733]

We started in a Toyota minivan too! And drove it on many dirt roads. But now we have a truck camper, and it feels like a mansion in comparison.

[@matthewhoopes4440]

Had an econoline that I built the inside plus a Tacoma. Sold both and bought a new F350 with a used S and S camper and also bought an 09 Kia Sedona minivan to outfit for economical road trips. Minivans are fantastic. But so is my TC!

[@GoodfellowTravels]

​@@KevinWaldsAdventureswhat kind of truck do you have? I'm thinking of buying a truck but I don't want the camper to split the truck in half

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

@@GoodfellowTravels mine is a ram 2500, I would recommend a 3500, just so you have a suspension with overload springs, the payload for every truck is on a sticker inside the drivers door of the truck. I would recommend finding the camper you want first then try to find a truck that will have a payload big enough to haul the camper and an additional 800-1000 lbs

[@jaytabac6525]

your price estimates of buying a descent truck and camper for $15K combined is a farce. Its true that a camper offers a lot more space and storage, but the new AWD vans are very capable and can access a lot of terrain. by the way, i own a truck and a camper.

[@mikemccabe7124]

most of today's new 4x4 sprinter vans are not really much of a 4x4 rig they're more like an All wheel drive with no lockers not to mention when the van senses its at funky angles and even tho you have it at full throttle it governs the motor to pretty much at idle and with no lockers that just can't offroad.. I do alot of offroad recoveries in Arizona and between the sandy dirt in the desert and the rocks in higher elevations they just don't have the clearance to offroad well at all which is why I always get called to go get them out..if u plan on staying on highways and the groomed dirt roads just off the highways then a sprinter style van would be just fine

[@XPLRNW]

I'm your latest subscriber, btw

[@24smiler]

I like your set-up. I'm new to your channel, would be nice to see you cook in your camper or cook over a fire.

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Thanks! I’ll try to incorporate more of my cooking, maybe do a master chef truck camper edition lol

[@tripcampers]

Nice 👏👏

[@robertjosan]

Can you do a separate video on the diesel heater ? What is the brand please?

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I just put one out! Check my channel!

[@paulbailey5915]

I will go the truck camper route. Also debated Van vs Truck Camper. Main pros for Truck Camper: Adding mileage does not depreciate the house part. She of those van builds cost $200k +. How much would someone realistically pay for that $200k van with 100k miles! Way more space in a truck camper. Also possibility to store inside and continue to use the truck as a kind of daily driver.

[@paulwilliams2024]

Dude where in Canada can you buy a pick up truck for only $10,000 ?

[@noneya61]

Kevin, how long does it take to get to 65 from -3? Any idea what the diesel consumption is?

[@garvdarb]

You want to go anywhere after You get there..,,..you gotta pack it all up n take it with you. Take a wee trailer

[@dlwightman]

Hello from Alaska, can you tell me the make and model of the truck heater that you are using? The block heater diesel one? Also wondering where u got it installed. Thanks

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

I got it off alibaba, it’s a no name Chinese one, webasto and espar make nicer ones, I installed it myself but any big rig shop could do it

[@dlwightman]

@@KevinWaldsAdventures thanks for reply

[@ChefAlexSocci]

Yeah but what if you plan to live in the vehicle and cant always stay in campsites? Idk how i would be able to stay in a truck camper in parking lots, as cool as they are.

[@blueman5924]

Lately, it doesn’t matter whether it be a van, truck, or RV, they are clamping down on parking lot dwellers. Too many bad apples pissed them off. If you watch Chrome from VanCity Vanlife, he demonstrates how easy it is to find urban spots that don’t irritate the locals, and he doesn’t stick around too long in one spot. No trash, no tarps, no dogs barking etc. safe travels. 🍁🤙

[@darrylstevens1854]

I've been back and forth on truck camper vs van both have their pros and cons but I'm leaning towards the van. For me I think the ability to jump in the driver's seat and bolt if I need to if a security issue were to arise plus I want to be able to park on the street and blend in somewhat with other vehicles to be stealthy. Also, with the truck camper I would feel it be very top heavy with all that weight in the back especially concerning driving down the highway. Anyway, nice rig thanks for the video 👍

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

They both definitely have their pros and cons! both are a solid choice to get out and see the world!

[@PalpitoMcCray]

Something to take into consideration is the reliablity of a truck vs a sprinter van. I can tell you right now working for a logisitics trucking company. We run all kinds of sprinter vans, step vans, box trucks, and semi's. Simply put, Sprinter Vans are not even remotely as reliable as a truck, both engine, transmission, and chassis. Both our Ford Transit and Dodge Sprinters are constantly in and out of the shop with suspension and steering issues. On the flip side, our Step Vans, which are built on a dual wheel truck chassis and run either a V8 or Diesel, have over 200,000 miles on them and have never had anything besides an oil change and brake. If you're looking for a middle ground, do NOT sleep on a step van. They are affordable, larger, and far more reliable. You can also still get into the front seat from back of the cabin.

[@matthewhoopes4440]

After having a van for 11 yrs and now a TC, I can say it was nice being able to go right to the driver seat. But having a TC now I can also say it's something I don't even think about. Personally that criteria would fall way down on the list. Hardly worth considering. Again, coming from someone who has done both.

[@tokay999]

Do you have a video how you mounted your tool box ?

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

It’s on a hitch receiver cargo mount and then I just used ratchet straps to stabilize it, I’ll have a video out at some point lol

[@savio_Seth]

Final reason: Truck Campers come with a "coolness factor" that you just can't find in a van. They are just cool and look awesome!

[@Chlorhydris1]

Convinced!

[@chikosneff]

Hey @Kevin any advice if I should go with a long or short bed truck? Northern Lite 8-11 and 9-6 do not look that different in size, and I seem to find more 8-11 on the used market

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Both are really similar, if your going to tow a trailer the 9-6 is perfect due to less over hang, the 8-11 has the option to get the larger dry bath and a built in generator. I wouldn’t think twice about going with a 8-11 personally

[@chikosneff]

Thank you for chiming in ! Interesting I was almost exclusively looking at 8ft bed trucks but now you’re making me reconsider .. I thought there would be more differences and downsides to the 8-11 … the overhang does “look wrong” to me though 😅

[@anthonycamacho6475]

Truck camper all the way. Only issue is height at times.

[@NicholasHillTrueGlaxor]

What's up with your hat? Are you a Jaffa of the System Lord Yu? Is the hat mid?

[@carlcharest]

Hi Kevin. Fellow Northern Albertan here looking to move to year-round truck camping. I've been looking at 4-season truck camper units (Bigfoot, Arctic Fox, Northern Lite). Also looking at buying a truck. Would you have any advice for me so that I can start on the right foot?

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Minimum truck would be a 3500, dually would be best but most will be fine on a 3500 single rear wheel. Don’t forget the the 1500$ for tie downs on the truck. The older northern lites and big foots are lighter except a Bigfoot 3000 series, Arctic fox requires a dually for any of there long box (8ft) campers only one that I would put on a single rear wheel is a 811 and they are great! The ones that are best in winter have a basement for the fibreglass shell ones (northern lite and big foot) there’s lots of big foot 2500 series campers that are older for sale and they are really good in the winter! Older northern lites will need ducting added for our winters.

[@carlcharest]

@@KevinWaldsAdventures Thanks a bunch for taking the time to answer. I've been binge-watching your videos over the last few days and have been learning a lot about what's coming.

[@thatguy7085]

Because you can place the truck… and still have the camper. Or… use the truck as a truck… makes way more sense.

[@powskier]

The first reason is that you can drop off the camper and have a truck for work and to carry big things like dirt bikes.

[@gabrielc1060]

Can you recommend good turnbuckles for offroad use

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Honestly I should use ones that are spring loaded but I just use regular ones for this old camper, the best will be fast guns if you want simplicity but any spring loaded will work great on rough roads

[@SpykersB]

Wow, what? on that truck heater!? I need to run into u someday cause that was a cool heat idea. And yeah, agree camper vans r ridiculously expensive for what u get, n they all have dinky reserve tanks!😂🍻

[@KevinWaldsAdventures]

Webasto makes the engine pre heaters but you can also find a cheaper Chinese version and that’s what I went with, so far it’s been very reliable for me!

[@UhYeahWhateverDude]

Your logic is flawed. You quote a new price for a 4x4 van but then quote used prices for a truck and camper for comparison? Heck, if we are going to go that route…I’ll get an ATV and a tent. It’s not only cheaper but I will go places your truck can’t. See how that works? It’s all relative.

[@Michaelajacksonfilms]

Ok, but why keep the truck bed