What is the difference between a camper shell and topper?
A camper shell and a topper are both accessories that can be added to the back of a pickup truck, but they have distinct differences in their design and purpose. In this article, we'll explore the key distinctions between these two truck accessories.
What is a Camper Shell?
A camper shell, also known as a truck cap or canopy, is a rigid, enclosed structure that fits over the bed of a pickup truck. Camper shells are designed to provide additional storage space and weather protection for the truck's cargo area. They are typically made of fiberglass, aluminum, or a composite material and can be customized with features like windows, vents, and even interior lighting. Camper shells are often used for camping, hauling gear, or as a temporary living space when traveling.
What is a Topper?
A topper, on the other hand, is a more lightweight and removable accessory that covers the truck bed. Toppers are typically made of a soft, flexible material like vinyl or canvas, and they are designed to provide basic weather protection and a sleek, aerodynamic appearance for the truck. Toppers are often used for light hauling or to create a more streamlined look for the vehicle, but they do not offer the same level of storage space or weather protection as a camper shell.
Key Differences
- Design and Construction: Camper shells are rigid, enclosed structures, while toppers are lightweight and removable.
- Storage Capacity: Camper shells provide more storage space and weather protection for the truck's cargo area, while toppers offer basic weather protection but less storage capacity.
- Customization: Camper shells can be customized with a variety of features, while toppers are generally more basic in their design.
- Intended Use: Camper shells are often used for camping, hauling gear, or as a temporary living space, while toppers are more commonly used for light hauling or to improve the vehicle's appearance.
In summary, while both camper shells and toppers are accessories for pickup trucks, they differ in their design, storage capacity, customization options, and intended use. Choosing between the two will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the truck owner.
What is the point of a truck topper?
First off a topper transforms your truck from an open bed to an enclosed space. Having the bed enclosed allows for weather-resistant transportation. You will no longer be limited to carrying items only suitable for the outdoors.
What is the difference between a topper and a camper shell?
When it comes to overlanding, there is no difference. "Truck topper" and "camper shell" describe the same thing, along with "truck cap" and "truck canopy." All of these describe types of units that sit directly on pickup trucks' bedrails (and clamp/bolt to these bedrails), most often not requiring tailgate removal.
What is a vehicle topper?
Pretty straightforward, a car topper is a marketing tool that sits on top of your vehicle. They can come in almost any shape and are custom made for your business. Car toppers can display your business's name and contact information in an easy to see way for those you pass.
What is another name for a camper shell?
canopy
A camper shell (also canopy, and sometimes truck topper, pap cap, truck cap, bed cap, box cap, or simply shell) is a small housing or rigid canopy used as a pickup truck or coupe utility accessory.
What is the difference between a camper shell and a truck topper?
When it comes to overlanding, there is no difference. "Truck topper" and "camper shell" describe the same thing, along with "truck cap" and "truck canopy." All of these describe types of units that sit directly on pickup trucks' bedrails (and clamp/bolt to these bedrails), most often not requiring tailgate removal.
Do trucks get better gas mileage with a topper?
Yes, bed covers, such as tonneau covers or camper shells, can improve gas mileage for pickup trucks. Here's how they contribute to better fuel efficiency: Reduced Drag: Pickup trucks have an open bed, which creates significant aerodynamic drag.
Do camper shells have toilets?
Lightweight truck campers may have a wet or dry bath indoors. It's a convenient perk during the night! A wet bathroom has a sink, shower or tub, and toilet all in one room.
Do truck bed covers hurt MPG?
It really depends on how you use your truck. If you're mostly driving in city traffic, a tonneau cover isn't going to make much of a difference in your gas mileage. However, if you're a frequent highway driver, a tonneau cover can help fuel efficiency.
What are camper shells used for?
What is a Camper Shell? Camper shells, those familiar additions we often spot on trucks, are more than just aesthetic enhancements. They act as a protective shield for your cargo, like armor safeguarding your belongings from the elements and potential theft.
Are truck toppers heavy?
How Much Do Truck Caps Weigh? For A.R.E truck caps, they range in weight from between 120 and 185 pounds for their truck toppers in the CX Series. It depends on your truck size and truck bed size.
