One thing about camping I appreciate is the fact that you have limitless opportunities. The whole world is your campsite, and you've got many means on how to camp, from using a tent down to a camper.
The latter has more comfort and is a way better upgrade for those who are older or need something with more space. But a huge problem would be the expenses that come with it!
That's why I tried learning about building my own truck camper to save money and learn more about do-it-yourself projects. And it worked!
So read on as I teach you how to build your own truck camper and enjoy the wonders the camper will do for your camping trips!
How To Build Your Own Truck Camper
When making your own truck camper, it might seem complicated at first. That's why I separate the whole procedure for you to know where to start.
Vertical Side Bins And Sleeping Space
This part will help support your sleeping platform and allow space for your necessities, such as electrical access or other trinkets for storing in your truck.
You will need the following materials:
- Plywood
- Skill Saw
- Screws and Canopy Clamps
- Mattress for Sleeping (or sleeping bags)
Here are the steps to follow:
1. Cut the plywood according to the length of the area of where you want it to sit. Mark any form of obstructions to give it space.
2. Notch out the canopy clamps or obstructions, then attaching the plywood to the truck's side with the clamps.
3. Measure out the vertical side bins, making it as narrow as possible for more space for sleeping. Measure both height and length, cutting a half-inch of plywood according to the height you want and to run the length of the bed.
4. Slide the plywood sheets to the grooves, screwing the braces to it. Repeat for the other side.
5. Measure the length and width of the truck bed, cutting 2x2 for it. Slide the plywood sheet between the side bins, and you've got a floor for your sleeping space.
6. You can now add the mattress from the sleeping area, or you can opt to use a sleeping bag and set it up on the day you'll be using the trunk of your truck.
If you plan on putting up electrical access for charging adapters or cooking-related items, then I recommend you to use a dual better and isolator setup to ensure more power to your camper without draining your truck's original battery.
Backshelf
The back shelf allows more space for your items. It can also be used as a table for eating.
You will need the following materials:
- Plywood
- Skill Saw
- Nails or Screws
Here are the steps to follow:
1. With the plywood you have left, cut a shed to a length that would reach the vertical side bins, overlapping by three inches.
2. Add a small nail or screw to the vertical sides of the plywood to keep it in place. You can also leave it as is to move it if needed quickly.
And there you have it! You now have a basic truck camper you can easily lounge or sleep in during your next camping trips. You can add more comfort and functionality into your camper by adding a small electric burner for cooking, or electrical access for lamps and lighting.
Keep in mind that though the camper is small and can fit one or two people, you'll be able to enjoy comfort without having to spend a ton of money on an RV or trailer van. It's built for the couple or single traveler on the go.
Tips On How To Maintain The Camper
Besides creating your own truck camper, you'll need to know more tips on how to make it better or easier for you to build and maintain. Here are some tips you can follow:
- Make sure that you clean your camper daily. This will prevent other critters from visiting your camper and making a mess.
- Take your time while building the camper. Sure, you want to make sure that you finish everything as soon as possible, but it's still best to go with the flow and do it slowly but surely. That way, you avoid making any mistakes that would further damage the camper in the long run.
- When maintaining your camper, have its interior and engine checked by a mechanic once every few months to assure that it's up and running for your next camping trip. I recommend you to start off with a truck that's in excellent condition. If not, then make sure to repair it before or during the construction, so you'll be ready to test it out as soon as possible.
- If you're having a difficult time looking for the materials, then I recommend you to go to garage sales or check online for cheaper alternatives to what you're looking for.
- Read more about: Popup camper tips
Via: Youtube.com
Conclusion
If you're planning on investing in a camper, then you might be surprised with the hefty price tags. Luckily, there are ways you can make a smart choke and save more money by building your own truck camper.
Now only is it a way to save money, but you'll also have the ability to learn new things while enhancing your talents in creativity and craft.
Check out this website for more designs and inspiration for building a camper trailer.
I hope that this article on how to build your own truck camper helped you become more knowledgeable with what you need to know about taking on a major project of revamping your truck. So what are you waiting for? If you're planning on trying to create a camper out of your truck, then follow these steps!
If you have any questions or would like to share your tips on how to build your own truck camper, then comment down below. I would love to hear what you have to think.