Truck Bed Tent Ford Ranger: Pickup Tent with Awning Shade Review – Pro

Tired of pitching a traditional ground tent or sleeping uncomfortably on an air mattress in the dirt? I recently got my hands on the Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade, and as a truck bed tent ford ranger owner, I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise. This innovative tent transforms your truck bed into a secure, elevated sleeping experience, complete with an integrated awning for extra shade and shelter.

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking convenience and comfort on their adventures, this product aims to be a game-changer. It promises not just a waterproof sleeping quarter but also a practical lounging area, making it ideal for everything from fishing trips to festivals. Let’s dive into what makes this truck bed tent a noteworthy contender for your next outdoor excursion.

Overview: What is the Pickup Truck Tent?

The Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade is designed to convert the bed of compatible pickup trucks into a fully enclosed, elevated camping shelter. Tailored for trucks with 5′-5’2” beds, it provides a robust, waterproof haven that keeps you off the cold, damp ground. Beyond just sleeping, its standout feature is the integrated awning, offering a generous shaded retreat wherever you park your vehicle, effectively expanding your usable outdoor living space.

Key Features: What Makes This Tent Stand Out?

Compatibility with Popular Trucks

This tent boasts broad compatibility, fitting a range of popular pickup trucks with 5′-5’2” beds, including a perfect fit for my truck bed tent ford ranger setup. This means owners of models like the Chevy Colorado, Jeep Gladiator, or Toyota Tacoma can also enjoy this convenient camping solution, ensuring a snug and secure foundation for your elevated campsite.

Serious Waterproof Protection

Constructed from 210D oxford fabric and enhanced with an impressive PU5000 waterproof coating, I found this tent to be remarkably rainproof. It effectively eliminates the need for any additional tarps, and the integrated waterproof layer on the bottom keeps ground moisture from seeping into your sleeping area, even during heavy downpours.

Spacious & Thoughtful Interior

Inside, the tent offers generous dimensions of 84.6” (Depth) by 64.9” (Width), with an impressive 67 inches of headroom, providing ample space for two adults to sleep comfortably. Thoughtful additions like two internal storage pouches, dual zippers for easy access, and good ventilation contribute to a secure and pleasant camping experience.

Integrated Awning for Shade & Shelter

One of the most appealing features is the expansive awning, which creates a significant shaded lounging area directly off your truck. This extra coverage is fantastic for setting up camp meals or simply relaxing outdoors, easily accommodating 3-4 people to enjoy the scenery away from direct sun or light rain.

Hassle-Free Setup

I appreciated the clear installation instructions and the relatively quick assembly process. The fiberglass poles contribute to a strong and secure structure, making the setup straightforward. Getting your camp ready means less time spent wrestling with gear and more time enjoying your travels and the great outdoors.

Pros & Cons: The Good, The Bad, and The Reality

Pros:

• ✅ Excellent waterproofing with PU5000 coating for all-weather camping
• ✅ Integrated awning provides significant shade and shelter for lounging
• ✅ Elevated sleeping position keeps you off the cold, wet ground and away from critters
• ✅ Generous interior space and ample headroom comfortably accommodates two adults
• ✅ Includes internal storage pockets for convenient organization of small items
• ✅ Secure mesh doors and windows effectively keep insects out while allowing ventilation
• ✅ Relatively easy and quick installation process with clear instructions

Cons:

• ❌ Requires removal of a truck bed tonneau cover if your truck is equipped with one
• ❌ Pole connections need careful attention during setup to prevent potential breakage
• ❌ Compatibility is limited to 5′-5’2” truck beds, so verify your truck’s length precisely
• ❌ No specific insulation mentioned for extreme cold weather conditions (standard for most tents)

Performance & Real-World Use: On the Road and Campsite

Effortless Setup & Initial Impressions

When I tested the Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade, the setup was surprisingly straightforward. The color-coded poles and clear instructions made assembly quick, taking about 15-20 minutes on my Ford Ranger. The tent felt secure once strapped down, and the waterproof PU5000mm Oxford material immediately gave an impression of durability, ready for an adventure.

Weather Resistance: Holding Its Own

One weekend, I camped during an unexpected downpour. The tent lived up to its waterproof claim; not a single drop penetrated the interior. The robust zippers functioned smoothly, preventing leaks. While moderate winds caused a slight flutter, the tent remained firmly in place, providing a secure and dry haven above the elements.

Awning Utility & Comfort

The integrated awning shade was a game-changer. It provided excellent protection from direct sun during the day, creating a comfortable outdoor space right beside the truck. Inside, the tent offers ample headroom and enough space for two adults to sleep comfortably, with some gear stored at the foot. The elevated position offers a sense of security and keeps you away from ground moisture and critters.

Who Should Buy This Pickup Truck Tent?

• Weekend Warriors & Overlanders: If you love spontaneous road trips and need a quick, reliable shelter that’s easy to set up and pack away.
• Hunters & Anglers: For those seeking a rugged, elevated camp to stay dry and secure, especially in areas with uneven terrain or pesky ground insects.
• Budget-Conscious Campers: At $109.99, it offers fantastic value for a durable, feature-rich truck bed tent compared to more expensive alternatives or traditional ground tents.
• Ford Ranger Owners: Specifically designed for truck beds of 5-5.2 FT, it’s an ideal fit for your Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, Tacoma, or similar models, providing a snug and secure setup.

Who should NOT buy this? Large families needing multiple rooms or those looking for an extremely lightweight, compact backpacking tent. This tent is built for truck bed convenience, not extreme portability in a backpack.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Is this truck bed tent compatible with my Ford Ranger?

Yes, absolutely! This Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade is specifically designed to fit truck beds measuring 5-5.2 FT, making it an excellent match for your Ford Ranger. It also fits other popular models like the Chevy Colorado, Jeep Gladiator, and Tacoma.

How long does it typically take to set up the tent?

With a little practice, you can expect to set up the tent in about 15-20 minutes. The design includes color-coded poles and clear instructions to make the process as quick and hassle-free as possible.

What is the waterproof rating of this tent?

The tent features a waterproof PU5000mm Oxford fabric, which is a very strong rating, indicating excellent resistance to heavy rain and adverse weather conditions. You can feel confident staying dry inside.

Can the tailgate still be closed with the tent installed?

No, the tent is designed to utilize the full length of the truck bed with the tailgate down, expanding the usable sleeping area and allowing for a more spacious interior. You cannot close the tailgate once the tent is fully pitched.

What’s the best way to ensure a snug fit for the truck bed tent Ford Ranger?

For the best fit, ensure your truck bed is clear of debris. Secure all straps and buckles firmly around the truck bed and tailgate. The tent’s design is optimized for 5-5.2 FT beds, ensuring a tight seal against elements when properly installed on your Ford Ranger.

Is there enough ventilation to prevent condensation?

The tent is designed with multiple mesh windows and a large door, offering excellent cross-ventilation. This helps to minimize condensation and keeps the interior fresh, especially on warmer nights.

Final Verdict: Is the Pickup Truck Tent Worth It?

With an impressive 4.4-star rating, the Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade truly stands out as an exceptional value for money at just $109.99. Its robust construction, impressive waterproofing, and practical awning make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their camping experience. If you own a Ford Ranger or a similar mid-size truck and frequently embark on outdoor adventures, this tent offers an unparalleled blend of convenience, comfort, and durability.

We highly recommend this tent for your next overlanding or camping trip. Embrace the freedom of elevated camping – grab your Pickup Truck Tent with Awning Shade today and transform your Ford Ranger into a cozy basecamp!