Can a Honda Ridgeline carry a truck camper?
The Ridgeline can haul a very lightweight truck camper, but most traditional campers exceed its payload and bed limitations. In practice, only slim, compact units that stay within the truck’s weight limits are viable.
This article explains how payload capacity, bed size, and mounting considerations determine whether a Honda Ridgeline can safely carry a bed-mounted camper, and what alternatives might fit better.
Understanding the Ridgeline's payload and bed dimensions
The Ridgeline's payload rating represents the maximum combined weight of passengers, cargo, and any bed-mounted gear that the truck can safely carry. For most model years, that figure sits around 1,400–1,600 pounds, depending on configuration and equipment. The 5-foot bed limits the available space for a truck camper's base, and the unibody construction affects how weight is distributed compared to traditional body-on-frame pickups.
Because every camper's weight varies (dry, wet, cargo, and fluids), and because a camper's bed mount must fit within the bed's length and width, it's essential to verify both the camper's weight and the vehicle's remaining payload after passengers and gear are accounted for.
Can a Ridgeline carry a camper? A practical checklist
Use the following checklist to evaluate whether a specific lightweight truck camper could be mounted on a Ridgeline without exceeding payload or bed constraints.
- Check the camper's unloaded (dry) weight and its "wet" weight with typical camping gear, water, propane, and batteries.
- Subtract the passenger and cargo weight you typically carry from the Ridgeline's payload rating to determine how much headroom remains for the camper.
- Assess whether the camper's base length is compatible with the Ridgeline's 5-foot (short) bed; many campers designed for mid-size trucks require longer beds.
- Consider the distribution of the camper's weight and how mounting hardware will anchor to the bed rails without exceeding rated load capacities.
- Factor in long-term operating conditions, including heat, vibration, and the potential need for reinforcement or professional installation.
Passing these checks does not guarantee compatibility, but it helps identify whether a specific lightweight truck camper could be safely carried. Always consult both the camper manufacturer and Honda's payload guidelines, and consider a professional installation to ensure safety and warranty compliance.
Mounting considerations and safety tips
In addition to payload, mounting a truck camper on a Ridgeline involves other safety and practicality concerns. Use this list to plan appropriately.
- Choose a camper specifically advertised for short-bed pickups; verify it fits a 5-foot Ridgeline bed.
- Use proper bed mounting hardware and consider load distribution aids to prevent bed rail damage.
- Verify that the installation does not void warranties or impact important safety systems (e.g., airbags, seatbelt sensors).
- Regularly inspect the mounting system, especially after off-road use or rough roads.
- Be prepared for limited payload under full load and adjust travel plans accordingly (e.g., lighter gear, slower speeds).
Even with careful mounting, a Ridgeline's payload margin is tight for many campers, and the practical reality is that most recreational campers will exceed safe limits. Some owners opt for alternative options such as roof-top tents, small teardrop trailers, or pop-up vans that place less load on the truck bed.
Alternative options and practical guidance
If a truck camper is not a good fit for a Ridgeline, several alternatives may meet similar needs with safer weight profiles and greater compatibility.
- Roof-top tents or canopy-mounted tents that use the truck’s roof or rooftop rails.
- Small teardrop trailers designed for lighter payloads and shorter bed configurations.
- Dedicated cargo trailers with a living space that do not add weight to the truck's payload.
- Dedicated small campers built specifically for mid-size trucks, with careful attention to weight and dimensions.
Before buying, compare weights, check the payload sticker on the driver's door jamb, and discuss your plan with the camper manufacturer and a Honda dealer or certified installer. This approach helps ensure safety and reliability while maintaining warranty coverage.
Summary
In short, a Honda Ridgeline can haul a very lightweight truck camper, but it's not a given for most campers. The decision hinges on payload capacity, bed fit, and weight distribution. For many enthusiasts, alternative solutions such as roof-top tents or lighter, bed-specific campers may offer a safer, more practical route.
Takeaway: to determine viability, start with the camper's dry and loaded weight, subtract your expected passenger/cargo weight, and verify fit within the Ridgeline's 1,400–1,600 lb payload window and 5-foot bed limitations. Always consult official specifications and a professional installer before committing.
