Toyota was the first Japanese automaker to produce a full-size truck in North America when they released the Toyota Tundra in 1999.
Making its initial world debut at the 1998 Indiana State Fair.
Now more than 25 years later, the Toyota Tundra has become one of the most popular and best-in-class full-size trucks on the market.
Ranking right up there with the Ford F-150, RAM 1500, and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, when it comes to power, reliability, towing capacity, and payload capacity.
As the new Toyota Tundra has a towing capacity between 8,300 and 12,000 pounds and a payload capacity between 1,575 and 1,940 pounds.
This allows the Tundra to carry a wide variety of truck campers, ranging from pop-up to hard-side options.
If you want to know the best truck campers for the Toyota Tundra, though, keep reading.
Because in the rest of this blog post, we’re highlighting the best truck campers for the Toyota Tundra, ranking them from lightest to heaviest.
Best Truck Campers for the Toyota Tundra (Lightest to Heaviest)
| Make/Model | Weight | Type | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Scout Olympic ⬇ | 1,145 lbs | Hard-Sided | $24,990 |
| 2. Four Wheel Campers Hawk ⬇ | 1,200 lbs | Pop-Up | $17,995 |
| 3. Hallmark Campers Milner Classic ⬇ | 1,212 lbs | Pop-Up | $46,695 |
| 4. Scout Kenai ⬇ | 1,331 lbs | Hard-Sided | $27,990 |
| 5. Palomino Rogue EA-1 ⬇ | 1,383 lbs | Pop-Up | $18,000 |
| 6. NorthStar TC650 ⬇ | 1,405 lbs | Pop-Up | $28,475 |
| 7. Palomino Backpack HS-690 ⬇ | 1,561 lbs | Hard-Sided | $25,000 |
| 8. Travel Lite Up Country 650U ⬇ | 1,576 lbs | Hard-Sided | $24,000 |
| 9. nuCamp Cirrus 620 ⬇ | 1,593 lbs | Hard-Sided | $34,500 |
| 10. Palomino Backpack SS-550 ⬇ | 1,594 lbs | Pop-Up | $18,500 |
1. Scout Olympic
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $24,990
- Type: Hard Sided
- Dry Weight: 1,145 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 10 Feet 7 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 6 (With Optional Roof Tent)
- Bathroom: Optional Portable Dometic Toilet
Scout makes some of the lightest truck campers on the market today, with their lightest model the Yoho weighing in at just under 1,000 pounds, making it one of the lightest truck campers you can buy.
However, because the Yoho is intended for mid-size trucks, such as the Toyota Tacoma or the Ford Ranger, we’ve chosen to highlight Scout’s second smallest truck camper, the Olympic.
Which is intended for full-size half-ton trucks like the Toyota Tundra.
Designed to be the ultimate basecamp for all your off-roading adventures, the Scout Olympic has everything you need for an extended stay off-grid in the backcountry.
Including such boondocking-friendly features as a portable Goal Zero Yeti 3000X Lithium Power Station, a roof-mounted 175-watt Renogy flexible solar panel, and a portable 4.9-gallon jerry can with a built-in charcoal filter, allowing you to collect water on the go.
But the features and amenities don’t stop there, as this minimalist hard-sided truck camper also includes a full-size 22-inch door with friction hinge, a four-person convertible dinette booth, thermal pane windows with screens, and an optional Newport Real Flame gas fireplace to keep the camper warm during cold weather camping.
For more information on the Scout Olympic or to order one, check out Scout’s website by clicking here.
2. Four Wheel Campers Hawk
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $17,995
- Type: Pop-Up
- Dry Weight: 1,200 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 10 Feet 8 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: N/A
Four Wheel Campers founded in 1972, makes a wide variety of slide-in pop-up truck campers, ranging from their Swift model to their Grandby model.
But one of their most popular slide-in pop-up truck campers is the Hawk, which is designed for full-size trucks, with truck beds ranging from 6-foot to 6-foot 6-inches, making it a perfect fit for the Toyota Tundra.
Four Wheel Camper Hawk Floorplan
Regardless of which Four Wheel Camper model you choose though, you can rest assured knowing that you’re buying a truck camper that will hold up to the harshest of conditions and last for decades.
That’s because every Four Wheel Camper offers premium quality and finishes, utilizes high-end, durable materials for both hard and soft sides, features a one-piece lightweight aluminum roof, and boasts an all-aluminum lightweight frame.
Plus, its low-profile design cuts down on wind drag and helps improve fuel efficiency.
This blend of durability, efficiency, and quality craftsmanship is what sets Four Wheel Campers apart in the market, providing adventurers with the confidence to tackle any terrain without compromising comfort or performance.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-term expedition, a Four Wheel Camper is a companion that’s built to enable, inspire, and endure.
For more information on the Four Wheel Camper Hawk and to find out how to order one, check out Four Wheel Campers website here.
3. Hallmark Campers Milner Classic
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $46,695
- Type: Pop-Up
- Dry Weight: 1,212 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 11 Feet 8 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: Optional Porta Potti or Cassette Toilet
Hallmark Campers are one of the most established truck camper manufacturers in the industry.
As they have been producing quality truck campers since 1958 out of their factory in Fort Lupton, Colorado.
Producing a wide variety of pop-up truck camper models including the Ute, the Everest, and the K2 to name just a few.
But one of their most popular models for 1/2-ton trucks is the Milner Classic, which has a dry weight of 1,212 pounds and is designed to fit short and standard truck beds.
Hallmark Milner Classic Floorplan
Despite the smaller and more compact size of the Milner Classic, Hallmark Campers still managed to fit a ton of features and amenities into the truck camper, including a queen-sized bed, a four-person convertible dinette booth, and a small kitchenette with plenty of counter space, a propane stove, a kitchen sink, and a mini-fridge.
As with the Scout Olympic truck camper mentioned previously, the Hallmark Milner offers extensive customization options to match your personal preferences.
Letting you select the interior finishes, including the type of wood used for the cabinetry, the color schemes, and even the textures of the materials.
The choice of fabrics for the upholstery is also in your hands, allowing for a unique combination that reflects your style and needs.
Whether you’re looking for a rugged, easy-to-clean surface or a more luxurious, cozy interior, Hallmark has a variety of options to satisfy every RVer.
For more info on the Hallmark Milner Classic, and to see how to order one, check out Hallmark’s website here.
4. Scout Kenai
Quick Specs
- Starting Price: $27,990
- Type: Hard-Sided
- Dry Weight: 1,331 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 12 Feet 2 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 6 (With Optional Roof Top Tent)
- Bathroom: Optional Thetford Cassette Toilet
The Scout Kenai is the largest truck camper that Scout makes with a dry weight of 1,331 pounds and an overall length of 12 feet 2 inches.
Making it the ideal choice for RVers who like the lightweight minimalist design of the Scout truck camper but want a little more interior space.
The Kenai offers the same lightweight composite construction and minimalist design as the Yoho and Olympic, but thanks to its slightly larger size provides a little extra interior space.
This really comes in handy on those longer camping trips, as it gives everyone a little extra space to move around and hang out inside the camper.
As you might expect the Kenai offers the same backcountry-friendly features that the smaller Scouts do, including a Yeti Goal Zero 3000X lithium battery station, a roof-mounted 175-watt Renogy flexible solar panel, a portable 4.9-gallon jerry can with a built-in charcoal filter for on the go water filtration, and dual 5-pound propane tanks.
Making it a great choice, if you’re looking for a lightweight boondocking truck camper for your Toyota Tundra.
For more information on the Scout Kenai or to order one, check out Scout’s website by clicking here.
5. Palomino Rogue EA-1
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $18,000
- Type: Pop-Up
- Dry Weight: 1,383 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 12 Feet 5 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: N/A
The Palomino Rogue EA-1 is one of the cheapest truck campers you can put on the Toyota Tundra, as it has an average price of just $18,000 new.
This affordable truck camper from Palomino costs less than half of what some of the more expensive models cost.
Making it the ideal choice for RVers shopping on a budget.
Palomino Rogue EA-1 Floorplan
Just because the Rogue EA-1 offers a more budget-friendly price though, don’t think that it’s a stripped-down bare-bones truck camper.
As the Rogue EA-1 has everything you need for a weekend getaway with your Tundra, featuring amenities that offer both comfort and functionality.
Including a small kitchenette with a mini-fridge, propane stove, and sink, it’s easy to whip up a meal on the road.
The camper’s interior also boasts a large 60-inch by 76-inch bed, providing ample space for a restful night’s sleep. The U-shaped dinette, not only a space for meals and socializing, can quickly transform into an additional sleeping area, ensuring that there’s room for everyone to join the adventure.
Despite its affordability, the Rogue EA-1 doesn’t compromise on quality either, as the construction is solid and designed to withstand the rigors of travel.
For more information on the Palomino Rogue EA-1, visit Palomino’s website by clicking here.
6. NorthStar TC650
Quick Specs
- Price: $28,475
- Type: Pop-Up
- Dry Weight: 1,405 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 13 Feet
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: N/A
Just like Hallmark Campers from above, NorthStar has a proud history of making top-notch truck campers.
This family-owned truck camper manufacturer has been producing quality hard-sided and pop-up truck campers since 1961.
One of their most popular models for half-ton trucks like the Toyota Tundra though is their pop-up NorthStar TC650, thanks to its well-laid-out floorplan, standard premium features, and best-in-class quality and construction.
The NorthStar TC650 features a north-to-south RV queen bed with storage on either side, a large seating area with a Lagun swing table system, and a well-equipped kitchenette with a mini-fridge, propane stove, and kitchen sink.
In addition, the NorthStar TC650 also features numerous standard upgrades that really help to set it apart from other truck campers.
As the TC650 comes standard with a power lift system for the roof, an auto-ignition furnace with a digital thermostat, premium Happijack corner jacks, marine-grade ultra-lite plywood, an insulated floor, a Maxxfan plus, and a 6-inch gel memory foam mattress.
For more information on the NorthStar TC650, check out NorthStar’s website here.
7. Palomino Backpack HS-690
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $25,000
- Type: Hard-Sided
- Weight: 1,561 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 12 Feet 9 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: None
Palomino, which is owned by Forest River, is one of the largest and most trusted manufacturers in the truck camper industry.
They produce a wide variety of truck campers across three different lineups that are known for their affordability, value, and quality.
Palomino Backpack HS-690 Floorplan
But one of their most popular hard-sided truck campers is the Palomino Backpack HS-690, which features an east-to-west queen bed, a small kitchenette, and a large U-shaped dinette that can double as a second sleeping area.
Built for half-ton trucks, this truck camper can fit 5.5, 6.5, or 8-foot truck beds, making it ideal for the Toyota Tundra.
And thanks to the quality construction of the Palomino brand, you can be sure that this truck camper will last just as long as your Toyota Tundra.
As all Palomino campers offer high-density block foam insulation, an Alpha Super Flex membrane roof, plywood substrate, fully welded aluminum frame superstructure, and high-gloss exterior fiberglass.
For more information on the Palomino Backpack HS-690 and to see a full 3D tour of the inside, check out Palomino’s website here.
8. Travel Lite Up Country 650U
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $24,000
- Type: Hard-Sided
- Dry Weight: 1,576 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 13 Feet 6 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Bathroom: Porta Potti + Outdoor Shower
Travel Lite is an RV manufacturer based out of Syracuse, Indiana that makes both lightweight travel trailers and truck campers.
But what they’re really known for is their ultra-lightweight truck campers, which offer industry-leading durability, strength, and weight savings, thanks to their solid wood construction.
Available in a variety of floorplans, it’s hard to go wrong, no matter which Travel Lite truck camper you go with.
But one of our personal favorites is the Travel Lite Up Country 650U, which features an east-to-west bed, a corner kitchen, and a large u-shaped dinette that can be turned into an additional sleeping space.
Travel Lite Up Country 650U Floorplan
And as is the case with all Travel Lite truck campers the 650U offers tons of upgrades and premium features not found on less expensive truck campers.
Including such premium features as an on-demand water heater, Shur-Flo water pump, 2000-pound convertible jacks pre-wired for electricity, an outside shower, and a 20-pound onboard propane tank.
For more info on the Travel Lite Up Country 650U and to see other available floorplans check out Travel Lite’s website by clicking here.
9. nuCamp Cirrus 620
Quick Specs
- Average Price: $34,500
- Type: Hard-Sided
- Dry Weight: 1,593 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 12 Feet 8 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: Cassette Toilet + Outdoor Shower
While nuCamp is perhaps best known for its TAB and TAG lightweight teardrop campers, they also make a well-built premium truck camper called the Cirrus.
Which is available in three different models, including the 620 meant for 1/2-ton trucks, the 820 meant for 3/4-ton trucks, and the 920 meant for 1-ton trucks.
nuCamp Cirrus 620 Floorplan
There’s nothing cheap about nuCamp Cirrus truck campers, however, as they’re one of the most expensive truck campers you can buy.
If you’re someone who has the means though and you’re looking for the best of the best in truck camper construction, features, and amenities, the nuCamp Cirrus is worth checking out.
The nuCamp Cirrus 620 is second to none when it comes to construction, features, and amenities.
Built to the highest of standards, it offers true four-season capability, allowing you to cold-weather camp right through winter and in the harshest of conditions.
In addition, the Cirrus 620 also offers other premium features such as remote-powered electric jacks, a 310-watt solar panel for off-grid power, and a 100 amp hour battery.
As well as high-end deluxe real wood cabinetry, an Alde Hydronic Heat System that provides both heat and hot water, and a roof-mounted AC.
For more information on the nuCamp Cirrus 620, check out nuCamp’s website by clicking here.
10. Palomino Backpack SS-550
Quick Specs
- Price: $18,500
- Type: Pop-Up
- Weight: 1,594 Pounds
- Exterior Length: 13 Feet 5 Inches
- Sleeping Capacity: 3
- Bathroom: None
While the Palomino Backpack HS-690 from above is one of Palomino’s most popular hard-sided truck campers, the Palomino Backpack SS-550 is one of their most popular soft-sided truck campers.
This versatile Palomino truck camper checks all the boxes if you’re looking for a well-equipped affordable camper.
As the Backpack SS-550 comes standard with numerous comfort and convenience features, while still keeping the price on the affordable side, at $18,500.
Palomino Backpack SS-550 Floorplan
Built for half-ton trucks with a truck bed of at least 5 foot 6 inches or longer, the Palomino Backpack SS-550 is a great choice for the Toyota Tundra, especially if you want to keep a lower profile and cut down on wind drag, thanks to its pop-top design.
For more info on the Palomino Backpack SS-550 and to see a full 3D tour of the interior, visit Palomino’s website here.
Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity Through the Years
It’s worth noting that not all Toyota Tundras have the same payload capacity depending on how it’s equipped and its production year.
As the Toyota Tundra’s payload capacity has varied slightly through the years.
As you can see from the below table, which shows a sampling of the different payload capacities of the Tundra throughout the years.
| Toyota Tundra Year | Payload Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2000 | 1,377 – 1,924 lbs |
| 2005 | 1,485 – 2,025 lbs |
| 2010 | 1,350 – 2,090 lbs |
| 2015 | 1,500 – 2,110 lbs |
| 2020 | 1,520 – 1,730 lbs |
| 2024 | 1,575 – 1,940 lbs |
So before carrying any truck camper with the Toyota Tundra, always check the payload capacity of your specific Tundra.
To ensure you’re under the max payload capacity of the truck.
Toyota Tundra & Truck Camper Sizes
When choosing a truck camper to put in the back of your Toyota Tundra, the weight of the truck camper is not the only thing you need to consider, as you also need to be aware of the length and width of the truck camper as well.
As not all half-ton truck campers will fit in the back of a Toyota Tundra, as some are designed to fit only in 8-foot truck beds, which could be an issue, depending on your Tundra’s truck bed size.
As the Toyota Tundra can be equipped with either a 5 and a half, 6 and a half, or 8-foot truck bed.
In addition, while the width of the truck camper will more than likely not be an issue if it’s designed for a half-ton truck, it’s still something you should pay attention to.
In order to ensure that the truck camper will slide between the rear wheel wells of the Tundra and not exceed the 66.4-inch width of the bed.
Can a Toyota Tundra Carry a Lance 650?
Even though the Lance 650 is the smallest and lightest truck camper that Lance manufactures, marketed for half-ton trucks, it’s best to avoid this model if you’re seeking a camper for the Toyota Tundra.
The Lance 650 has a dry weight of 1,700 pounds and a wet weight of 1,903 pounds, which either exceeds or nearly reaches the maximum payload capacity of all Toyota Tundras. This capacity ranges from 1,350 to 2,110 pounds, varying by the vehicle’s options and production year.
You should never exceed or max out the payload capacity of any truck, as doing so can lead to safety and handling issues.
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