Camping enthusiasts need vehicles that blend functionality, reliability, and comfort, and for 2024, pickup trucks continue to dominate as versatile camping companions. Be it hauling all your basic camping gear or towing a trailer, or going through some off-grid terrain, some trucks stand apart from the rest. Here’s a closer look at five of the best pickup trucks for camping in 2024, including details on their costs for camping, features, and average insurance expenses.

 

1. Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline is, for its class of midsize trucks, almost like driving an upscale automobile. Besides the vast majority of conventional body-on-frame pickups, the unibody construction of the Honda Ridgeline guarantees a suitably soft ride, making it an excellent choice for a comfortable and versatile Ford. So far as comfort and organizing the equipment is concerned, its in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate promise easy to load and arrange camping gear while its roomy interior provides passengers with ample comfort as it takes them through those long drives.

 

Camping Costs

Speaking of gas mileage, the Honda Ridgeline is very economical for a truck, averaging around 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. This is excellent and helps keep the fuel costs quite reasonable. On a 200-mile round trip, expect fuel costs of about $35-$50, depending on local gas prices.
It boasts a very spacious 5.4-foot truck bed complete with an in-bed trunk and a dual-action tailgate, which eliminates the need to add more cargo storage accessories and saves some $150-$300 bucks on cargo solutions.

Insurance Costs

On average, the Ridgeline’s Honda insurance runs about $500-1000 a year, depending on coverage and location.

 

2. Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is a name synonymous with capability and innovation. As the best-selling pickup in the U.S., it speaks to all kinds of needs, from intense work to camping. Whether you are towing a camper or just generally having to haul around heavy equipment to some remote location for desert camping, the F-150 has you covered. Its various trim levels and options, such as Pro Power Onboard and off-road packages, tailor it perfectly for varied camping scenarios-from grueling backcountry expeditions to relaxing, plush weekend escapades. Its adaptability at large makes it a top choice among adventurers.

 

 

Camping Costs

The F-150 features everything from Pro Power Onboard that can double as a campsite generator down to the end. With the conventional powertrains, estimated fuel economy averages 20 MPG combined, meaning a 200-mile drive would be powered by approximately $40-$55 in fuel. Accessories such as camper shells and rooftop tents begin at around $1,500, offering fantastic value for campers.

Insurance Costs

The average annual insurance for the Ford F-150 is $1,500 to $1,800, a little higher since it is so popular and may be driven harder.

 

3. Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is a trusted friend for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Known for its toughness and capability on bad roads and trails, the Tacoma loves harsh terrain-not just because of the high ground clearance, durable suspension system, and crawl control but also because its compact size allows it to fit more easily onto smaller trails. Models like the TRD Pro and Off-Road have been specifically engineered for true rough outdoor camping. It is said that Tacoma is the favorite for solo campers and couples who want to tour through uncharted paths without sacrificing reliability or performance.

 

Camping Costs

This would work out to an estimated $40-$60 in gas alone for Tacoma to make the 200-mile run, considering its average fuel economy of 18 MPG city / 22 MPG highway. Its robust bed and off-road suspension make it a prime candidate for camping attachments like a bed rack or rooftop tent that could range upwards of $1,000 to $2,500 dollars.

Insurance Costs

Insurance premiums for the Tacoma are competitive and average $1,200-$1,400 annually, making the Tacoma among the more affordable trucks in its class to insure.

 

4. Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 balances raw power and functional features, making it the go-to for those campers needing a truck to handle serious loads. Its impressive towing capacity, combined with its roomy truck bed, makes it ideal for carrying larger camping setups, including trailers and RVs. Various engine choices, including a fuel-economical diesel version, make the Silverado flexible for a variety of camping needs. Whether it’s a multiweek camping trip or just an action-packed weekend getaway, this heavy-duty truck can take whatever you throw at it.

 

 

Camping Costs

The truck can tow 13,300 pounds, which is sufficient to pull a small camper for extended camping. Fuel economy ranges, but the diesel option boasts an impressive 26 MPG highway and drops fuel costs for a 200-mile trip to approximately $35-$45. A camper package with increased storage and towing features could cost upwards of $1,800 to $3,000.

Insurance Costs

The insurance cost is on the higher side, considering its size and capability, which costs around $1,600-2,000 on average per year.

 

5. Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 redefines the meaning of going camping in style. With a luxury interior, smooth ride, and innovative features, it makes the Ram 1500 stand out in the case of getting the best of both worlds: luxury and capability. The refined cabin with quality materials and technology features, such as a 12-inch touchscreen, is complemented by the Rambox Cargo Management System, which helps to add convenience for organizing the camping gear. That makes this Ram 1500 perfect for glamping enthusiasts who don’t want to leave comfort behind as they venture deeper into the woods. It also boasts a comfortable ride and a robust towing capacity, making this a great companion for outdoor escapades.

 

Camping Costs

The Ram 1500 receives about 22 MPG combined with its EcoDiesel engine. A 200-mile drive would run a tab of $40-$55 in fuel. It has a Rambox Cargo Management System, which is great for organizing any camping gear; thus, there would be no need to invest in some sort of external storage. Adding luxury features to this model, including an all-weather tent attachment, could run upwards of $2,000-$3,500.

Insurance Costs

Expect insurance premiums between $1,700-$2,000 annually, reflecting its luxury status and advanced features.

 

Choosing the Right Truck for Your Type of Camping

Each of these trucks serves different and varied needs for camping. The Honda Ridgeline has extremely family-friendly features and has an affordable price tag. The Ford F-150 is highly versatile, while the Toyota Tacoma handles more extreme terrains. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 would go well with heavy campers, while the Ram 1500 provides luxury to those who want it during camping.

Camping Budgeting
With any of those options, one should not only consider the price of buying but also the long-term costs: fuel, insurance, and accessories, among others. All these trucks have their merits, so surely you will be able to find a model that fits your needs for camping and plans within your budget.
In 2024, camping is all about adventure, comfort, and efficiency, these trucks are ready to take you there.