Choosing between a truck camper and a van camper for your adventures can be a tough decision. Both options offer unique benefits and cater to different lifestyles and needs. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of each to help you decide which might be better for your next adventure. To check out a few van and truck camper options, head over to industry leading adventure vehicle builder, Rossmönster and see what their builds are all about.

Truck Camper

Pros:

1. Preference: Some people are just truck people!
2. Off-Road Capability: Truck campers are typically more rugged and capable of handling rough terrain. If you plan to venture off the beaten path, a truck camper might be the better choice.
3. Towing Capacity: If you need to tow a boat, ATV, or trailer, a truck camper is often more suitable due to the truck’s higher towing capacity.
4. Separated Living Space (Safety): Most truck camper layouts highlight a camper that is separated from the cab. At Rossmönster, all van and truck camper builds meet and exceed industry safety standards, there is no comparison to the safety provided by separating your living and driving areas
5. Immediate Availability: All three models of the Rossmönster Baja Truck Camper Series are available at Van City RV Dealerships nationwide, so there’s no need to wait in line for a build slot as required in the world of custom custom camper vans.

Cons:

1. Indoor Space/Storage Limitations: Truck campers often have less living space compared to van campers, which can lead to a need for exterior upgrades and storage components such as molle panels, locking storage boxes, etc.
2. Higher Initial Cost: While there is a wide range of prices, high-end truck campers can be quite expensive, especially when combined with the cost of a capable truck.

 

Van Camper

 

Pros:

1. All-in-One Convenience: Van campers combine the driving and living spaces into one unit, making it easier to move from place to place without the need to set up or break down a separate living area.
2. More Living Space: Van campers often provide more integrated and spacious living quarters, including amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.
3. Stealth Camping: The van’s inconspicuous appearance makes it easier to camp in urban or suburban areas without drawing attention.
4. Complete Customization: Rossmönster offers completely custom adventure van builds, meaning you can design the van that best fits your unique adventure style.

Cons:

1. Limited Off-Road Capability: Most vans are not designed for rugged off-road use, which can limit your ability to explore remote or rough terrain, unless you opt for a lift kit and suspension upgrade.
2. Less Passengers: A van generally only has the two main captain’s chairs, though non DOT approved seating configurations can be added. Most truck campers however retain the existing truck camper cab, allowing them to ride up to six depending on truck model.
3. Maintenance Costs: Repairs and maintenance can be more expensive for van campers, particularly for European models such as the popular Mercedes Sprinters.
4. Limited Towing Capacity: Vans typically have lower towing capacities than trucks, which can be a drawback if you need to tow additional recreational equipment.

Conclusion

The choice between a truck camper and a van camper ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value off-road capability, versatility, and towing capacity, a truck camper might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize ease of use, and integrated living space, a van camper could be more suitable.

Consider how you plan to use your camper, where you intend to travel, and what features are most important to you. Both options offer unique advantages, and the best choice will depend on your personal camping and travel style. Happy adventuring!