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Posted by: hooter56 Jan 18 2017, 02:43 PM

Nothing like that fresh "Newbie smell". I recently retired. The type of camping I want to do is a truck camper. I need the freedom and versatility. I don't have a truck, or a camper yet. I had to make up stuff just to get registered.
I need your cumulative advice and opinions as what I should be looking for.
The type of camper I'm looking to get will have a generator, shower, A/C, maybe an expandable, not sure on that. It's just my wife and me, neither of us is large or tall. I want enough room where we won't get in each other's way, too much.

First, I'm getting a truck. Should I shoot the moon and go 1 ton, 4WD, diesel dually? Or, is a 3/4 ton with the right accessories sufficient? I plan on towing a small vehicle, or my Harley.

I appreciate any advice. I would like to get started ASAP.

Posted by: skyhammer Jan 18 2017, 05:02 PM

Nothing like that fresh "Newbie smell".  I recently retired. The type of camping I want to do is a truck camper. I need the freedom and versatility. I don't have a truck, or a camper yet. I had to make up stuff just to get registered.
I need your cumulative advice and opinions as what I should be looking for.
The type of camper I'm looking to get will have a generator, shower, A/C, maybe an expandable, not sure on that. It's just my wife and me, neither of us is large or tall. I want enough room where we won't get in each other's way, too much.

First, I'm getting a truck. Should I shoot the moon and go 1 ton, 4WD, diesel dually? Or, is a 3/4 ton with the right accessories sufficient? I plan on towing a small vehicle, or my Harley.

I appreciate any advice. I would like to get started ASAP.

Posted by: hooter56 Jan 18 2017, 05:12 PM

I just discovered Truck Camping 101. Amazing info, I can't wait to read it all. I'll be able to ask better questions when I'm done. Thanks.

Posted by: Freespool Jan 18 2017, 07:00 PM

Welcome to the board and to truck camping. I loved the fact that you are willing to read and learn before asking questions that have been answered dozens of times. Setting up a new rig takes a great deal of time and knowledge. The more you know before starting will only increase your success ratio. Dealers will tell you what you want to hear, forums will tell you what works. Enjoy this site, many of us that are here are willing to help you. Take a look at Mike's site also. Truck Camper Adventure's will answer questions that will help you. Learn about the DMV and your new truck camper. Your upcoming investment will be substantial, choose wisely.

Posted by: SidecarFlip Jan 19 2017, 07:47 PM

Camper and truck all depend on the size of your wallet and anticipated needs. Myself, don't need or want a DRW but I need 4x4 and I prefer diesel. Don't need or want slide outs and a lot of frills so a popup (Palomino SS) fits me fine. Finally, because I boondock 100 % of the time, I need a generator and a camper with lower clearance to negotiate the woods with but my wife wants a full wet bath so the Palomino SS 1500 was the logical choice plus the Cg is low, a big plus in the woods on seasonal roads.

First complete season, no issues at all, I've added a bag awning on the side (everyone needs a patio) a second house battery (one isn't enough) and a rear observation camera so I can see what is behind me on the road and check on my trailer and quads to be sure they haven't fallen off, on the road....and a ladder to get into the bunk, something every TC should have, not just mine.

I'm tickled, the wife is tickled and a happy wife is a happy life.