The Kimbo Camper has gained a reputation in the truck camper world for being something different. It isn’t a clone of the traditional RV industry approach. Instead, it’s the product of a very specific vision built around simplicity, durability, and long-term usability. For people who want a rig that’s ready for hard miles, bad weather, and true independence, the Kimbo Series 6 tends to show up on their shortlist.
Truck campers have always attracted a certain kind of traveler. Some want weekend comfort. Others want a rugged shelter that supports deep exploration. Kimbo sits in the middle, offering a lightweight, aluminum-shell design that doesn’t rely on bulky systems or high-maintenance components. That alone makes it appealing to overlanders, nomads, and anyone who wants a camper that can take a beating while remaining functional and comfortable.
This review takes a detailed look at what makes the Kimbo Series 6 unique. We’ll walk through its origin story, construction methods, interior layout, customization options, off-grid strength, and real-world road manners. If you’re considering a Kimbo Camper for your truck, you’ll find the information you need to determine whether it fits your style of travel and daily use.
Table of Contents
- The Origin Story
- Overview of the Kimbo Series 6 Camper
- Construction & Build Quality
- Interior Layout & Standard Features
- Build-Out Modules & Customization Options
- Off-Grid Performance
- On-the-Road Experience
- Who the Kimbo Camper Is Best For
- Pros & Cons
- Final Verdict
- FAQ
The Origin Story: How Kimbo Came to Be
The Kimbo Camper story begins with Mark King, an inventor and entrepreneur known for founding Trayvax. His desire to build something radically different came from his fascination with the interior of the USS Alabama submarine. The clean, functional layout of that submarine sparked an idea about how living spaces don’t need to be big to be effective. They just need to be purpose-driven.
Mark spent years living in a 19-foot Airstream. That minimal lifestyle shaped his view of what truly matters in a mobile living space. He learned firsthand the pain points of traditional RV systems, ongoing repairs, and the burden of owning more than you actually use. This experience eventually pushed him to pursue a camper that would reject unnecessary complexity.
In 2016, he began prototyping what would become the Kimbo Series 6. After more than 30,000 miles of testing, refining, breaking, and rebuilding, the Kimbo Camper emerged as a reliable and lightweight shelter for modern nomads. The mission remains simple: build a camper that lasts, supports adventure, and encourages people to step outside with confidence.
Overview of the Kimbo Series 6 Camper
The Kimbo Series 6 was originally designed around the Toyota Tacoma, which tells you a lot about its priorities: low weight, solid structure, and a compact footprint that still offers practical living space. Even though it pairs beautifully with mid-size trucks, it also fits full-size pickups with the proper jack bracket extensions.
Depending on how you configure it, the Series 6 weighs between 980 and 1,230 pounds. That weight makes it realistic for many trucks that struggle with bulkier hardshell campers. From there, you can build a very dialed-in setup through modular add-ons.
This camper appeals to a wide range of users. Overlanders appreciate its toughness. Weekend campers like the convenience. Full-time travelers enjoy its simplicity. Hunters value its weather resistance. Remote workers can add Starlink wiring and use the space as a reliable mobile office. The Kimbo Camper philosophy is centered on building a durable unit you can keep for years and modify as your needs change.
Construction & Build Quality
Exterior Design
The exterior of the Kimbo Camper is unmistakable thanks to its riveted, frameless aluminum shell. The brushed aluminum finish gives it a clean, industrial look while holding up well to real-world abuse. It is a durable skin that doesn’t rely on wood framing, which helps eliminate rot and long-term maintenance concerns.
Double-pane windows with integrated screens and blackout shades help regulate interior temperature, and the lockable exterior propane bay keeps your fuel secure. Side-mounted removable jack lifts and high-strength tie-down brackets make loading and securing the camper simple. A roof track system can be added if you plan to carry surfboards, skis, or other adventure gear.
For those who want a highly usable exterior, Kimbo also offers awnings, surf racks, ski racks, Rotopax mounts, and windows that enhance ventilation and visibility. The shell feels built to last, and after spending time around one, you quickly recognize why the brand emphasizes longevity.
Insulation & Weather Resistance
The R-5 foam insulation, paired with brushed fabric interior walls, provides a stable climate inside the camper. It’s intentionally simple but effective. The optional propane fireplace creates a cozy interior environment in cold weather, and the MaxxAir 7500 fan upgrade improves airflow in warmer seasons.
The four-season capability is one of the reasons the Kimbo Camper has become so popular with hunters and winter campers. It handles temperature swings better than many traditional slide-ins. The fireplace, combined with ventilation, gives the unit a solid balance of heating performance and fresh air flow.
Truck Compatibility & Setup
The Series 6 was built around the Tacoma, but Kimbo provides bracket extensions for several full-size trucks. A basic rubber bed mat adds friction and stability, and those who want additional organization can install the optional subfloor drawer system.
Because this camper is light, many trucks won’t require suspension upgrades. However, drivers who tend to overload or travel rough terrain often benefit from airbags or beefier leaf packs. Payload should always be checked, but in general, the Kimbo Camper is far easier on a vehicle than most slide-ins.
Interior Layout & Standard Features
Living Space & Design
The interior follows a modular philosophy. Instead of building every feature into the camper permanently, Kimbo gives owners the ability to choose exactly what they want. A full-size loft bed sits up top, supported by a foam mattress that is surprisingly comfortable for long stays.
Two cushioned seating areas sit below the bed. The entryway is finished in bamboo, and a mudroom-style gear closet sits next to the door. LED lighting, a skylight with a reversible roof vent, a fire extinguisher, and perimeter lighting round out the standard interior setup.
Power & Off-Grid Systems
Every Kimbo Camper comes with a 100W bifacial solar panel, a 12V sealed battery, USB ports, and AC outlets. Shore power connection is included, and you can expand your solar capacity if you plan to live off-grid for extended stretches. Propane supports heating and cooking, and additional solar panels or batteries can be added for more robust setups.
Build-Out Modules & Customization Options
Kimbo’s modular system is one of its best traits. The layout can grow or shrink depending on your needs. Here is a breakdown of each module and who benefits most.
Kitchen / Sink Module
This compact kitchen system includes a stainless sink, a hand-pump faucet, and a 2.5-gallon tank. It’s simple but useful. For weekenders who don’t need a full kitchen but want basic washing and prep space, it works well.
Refrigerator + Solar Module
The 1.7 cu. ft. refrigerator paired with two Bluetti batteries and an additional solar panel benefits campers who want reliable cooling for food and drinks. This setup is ideal for long-term off-grid stays.
Wooden Storage Unit + Table
This module adds clothing storage and a fold-out table. It’s great for digital nomads or anyone who needs a place to work or eat inside the Kimbo Camper.
Foldaway Interior Shower
The indoor shower is compact and uses a Geyser heating system. It is not compatible with the seating nook or extra bed, but it offers an enclosed wash solution for people who need privacy and convenience.
Joolca Hottap Outdoor Shower
The outdoor shower setup is quick to deploy and relies on a propane heater. It’s a popular choice for overlanders who wash off gear, pets, or themselves outdoors.
Heating, Cooling & Climate Modules
The propane fireplace is arguably Kimbo’s most talked-about module. The optional A/C runs only on shore power or a generator, so off-grid users usually stick to the fan and insulation system.
Sleeping Expansions
Families or friends traveling together can add an extra bed module. Just note the incompatibility with the indoor shower module.
Storage Upgrades
Wire baskets, pantry shelves, surf racks, ski racks, Rotopax mounts, and the subfloor drawer system make the interior and exterior easier to organize. These small upgrades significantly improve daily usability.
Tech & Convenience Add-Ons
Kimbo offers wiring for Starlink, a 19-inch monitor with casting, a portable solar plug, a Dometic GO faucet, and exterior grab handles. These conveniences help tailor the camper to your personal workflow and lifestyle.
Off-Grid Performance
The standard 100W solar panel works well for weekend trips, and those who stay out longer often add more solar or battery capacity. Propane usage depends on how frequently you cook or run the fireplace, but the dedicated storage bay makes refueling simple.
Water management varies based on which modules you choose. The indoor and outdoor shower options make it easy to stay clean on multi-day trips. For heating, the fireplace combined with insulation keeps the interior warm in cold environments.
In real-world use, the Kimbo Camper handles extended boondocking well, provided you plan your power strategy. With the refrigerator and Bluetti batteries installed, owners often stay out for a week or more without issue.
On-the-Road Experience
Weight & Handling
The weight of the Kimbo Series 6 makes it manageable for mid-size trucks. Full-size trucks barely notice it. A well-balanced center of gravity reduces sway, and the shell shape helps with wind resistance. Airbags or upgraded suspension can improve ride quality, but many drivers find them unnecessary.
Comfort & Livability
The interior space is tight but well-organized. As long as you respect the compact footprint, it becomes an efficient living space. The bed is comfortable, the seating areas work well for meals, and the storage options keep clutter under control.
Cooking is easy with the sink and optional kitchen modules. Seasonal comfort depends on your heating and cooling setup, but the insulation and fireplace combination work impressively well in cold weather.
Who the Kimbo Camper Is Best For
Weekend campers appreciate the ready-to-go layout. Overlanders love the durability and modular design. Hunters value the weatherproof shell. Minimalists benefit from the straightforward systems. Remote workers can set up a compact workstation with reliable off-grid power and Starlink.
If you want a camper that encourages time outdoors instead of time spent maintaining complex systems, this one fits that profile perfectly.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight, durable construction
- Highly modular interior and exterior
- Designed for long-term ownership
- Excellent for off-grid travel
- Strong insulation and weather protection
Cons
- Price climbs quickly with additional modules
- Some modules are incompatible with others
Final Verdict
The Kimbo Camper is a well-built, forward-thinking truck camper that offers durability, flexibility, and simplicity for people who want to travel with fewer limitations. It is a strong investment for anyone who prioritizes off-grid capability, long-term value, and a rugged design that does not rely on fragile RV systems.
If you want a camper that supports adventure, minimalism, and serious outdoor living, the Kimbo Series 6 is one of the most compelling options available today.
FAQ
How much does a Kimbo Camper weigh?
The Series 6 ranges from 980 to 1,230 pounds depending on the modules you select.
Can the Kimbo Series 6 fit a full-size truck?
Yes. With the proper bracket extensions, it works well on many popular full-size models.
Is the Kimbo Camper good for winter camping?
Yes. The insulation, double-pane windows, and optional fireplace make it reliable in cold climates.
Does the Kimbo Camper work for full-time living?
It can, as long as you are comfortable with a compact footprint and modular layout.
Can the Kimbo Camper run air conditioning off-grid?
No. A/C requires shore power or a generator.
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