This summer we spotted a Phoenix pop-up in a campground in BC. I googled the make and discovered, to my delight, the world of POP up truck campers. Hmm, low profile, lightweight...I wish we had more of these in Canada!! Since then I've discovered lots on-line, including this great forum!
We're headed toward a 'downsize' from our current Toyota 4Runner and tent trailer, for three reasons: 1. The Runner's pushing 400,000 kms 2. Our kids have grown up and still join us camping, but with their own vehicles/accomodation. 3. We want to find more ways to reduce our 'carbon footprint'.... do more to reduce our contribution to pollution and energy waste.... and save $ on gas, licensing and ferry tolls!
Apparently the 4 cyl Tacoma is an "industry leader" in fuel economy and low emmissions, which is why I'm considering one as my next vehicle. I had a compact truck before (85 Hilux) and it was perfect for my use. We also had a truck camper before, but not on the Hilux, it was an 8ft on an older Chev 3/4 ton. We enjoyed the camper but not the fact that our rig couldn't pass a gas station.
So what I'd like to explore with this forum's community of ingenious, crafty, experienced pop-up camper owners and industry reps is.... can we go greener and still enjoy the relative luxury of truck camper life? I'd like to hear from small truck owners, find out what campers they are using/have tried and specifically what they weigh. I'd like to hear from the industry reps... what do they recommend I look at? Shell model and modify? I have more questions, but I'll save'em for the thread.
We're headed toward a 'downsize' from our current Toyota 4Runner and tent trailer, for three reasons: 1. The Runner's pushing 400,000 kms 2. Our kids have grown up and still join us camping, but with their own vehicles/accomodation. 3. We want to find more ways to reduce our 'carbon footprint'.... do more to reduce our contribution to pollution and energy waste.... and save $ on gas, licensing and ferry tolls!
Apparently the 4 cyl Tacoma is an "industry leader" in fuel economy and low emmissions, which is why I'm considering one as my next vehicle. I had a compact truck before (85 Hilux) and it was perfect for my use. We also had a truck camper before, but not on the Hilux, it was an 8ft on an older Chev 3/4 ton. We enjoyed the camper but not the fact that our rig couldn't pass a gas station.
So what I'd like to explore with this forum's community of ingenious, crafty, experienced pop-up camper owners and industry reps is.... can we go greener and still enjoy the relative luxury of truck camper life? I'd like to hear from small truck owners, find out what campers they are using/have tried and specifically what they weigh. I'd like to hear from the industry reps... what do they recommend I look at? Shell model and modify? I have more questions, but I'll save'em for the thread.