Choosing the right small truck bed camper can make or break your camping experience. Too small, and you’ll feel cramped. Too large, and it might not fit your truck or trailer setup. The good news? Freedom Camper offers four intelligently designed models to match different vehicle sizes and camping needs.
From quick weekend getaways to rugged overland expeditions, there’s a Freedom Camper built for your style of adventure. Whether you’re outfitting a Toyota Tacoma or a full-size F-150, the key is knowing which size makes the most sense for your truck and how you plan to use it.
This guide will help you compare all four Freedom Camper sizes, understand compatibility, and pick the perfect small truck bed camper for your rig. Let’s dive in and find the setup that gets you on the road faster—and more comfortably!
Table of Contents
- Why Camper Size Matters When Choosing a Small Truck Bed Camper
- Freedom Camper 48″ x 79″: Best for Midsize Trucks
- Freedom Camper 48″ x 89″: Ideal for Full-Size Trucks Without a Platform
- Freedom Camper 58″ x 79″: Compact Width, More Sleeping Space
- Freedom Camper 58″ x 89″: The Most Popular Small Truck Bed Camper
- Understanding Raised Platforms and Truck Bed Drawer Systems
- FAQ
Why Camper Size Matters When Choosing a Small Truck Bed Camper
Not all small truck bed campers are created equal. The Freedom Camper lineup is proof of that. Each model is designed with specific truck bed lengths, widths, and use cases in mind. Choosing the right size affects everything from how easily it mounts to how much room you have to stretch out at night.
If you’re camping solo and want to keep your setup minimal, a narrower option like the 48” width models might be a better fit. But if you travel with a partner or just like a little extra space to spread out, the 58” width campers provide roomier comfort.
Length matters too. A longer camper like the 89” models will typically provide more legroom and gear storage. But depending on your truck’s bed length, it might require you to leave the tailgate down or consider a platform system for a better fit.
The goal isn’t just to get a camper that fits—it’s to get one that matches your adventure style. And the Freedom Camper lineup gives you the flexibility to do just that.
Freedom Camper 48″ x 79″: Best for Midsize Trucks
If you drive a midsize truck like a Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, or GMC Canyon, the 48″ x 79″ model may be your ideal match. This small truck bed camper is lightweight, efficient, and made for trucks with 5 to 6.5-foot beds—tailgate down.
Weighing just 180 pounds, it’s easy to load and unload. It’s also narrow enough to fit inside most midsize truck beds without overhanging the sides. The trade-off? It does require a raised platform to clear your wheel wells. Freedom Camper provides DIY platform instructions, and it’s a pretty simple weekend project.
This model is perfect for solo campers or couples who want a bare-bones, rugged solution for weekend getaways or remote trails. Inside, you’ll find just enough room to rest, recover, and recharge before the next leg of your journey.
If you’re looking for a small truck bed camper that won’t overwhelm your mid-size truck, the 48″ x 79″ is the one to watch.
Freedom Camper 48″ x 89″: Ideal for Full-Size Trucks Without a Platform
The 48″ x 89″ model was built specifically for full-size trucks like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, or GMC Sierra. If you want to avoid building a raised platform, this size is a smart option. Its extra length eliminates the need for elevation—it simply slides into the truck bed and mounts securely.
This camper shares the same width as the 48″ x 79″ model, but the extra 10 inches of length gives you more room to sleep and store gear. It fits well in truck beds 5.5 feet and longer, though it may require the tailgate to remain down depending on your setup.
One of the benefits of this configuration is the low profile. It’s aerodynamic and doesn’t add excessive wind resistance on the highway. Plus, at only 180 pounds, you still get excellent fuel efficiency and easy handling.
For those who want a simple, no-platform small truck bed camper for a full-size pickup, the 48″ x 89″ is a top contender.
Freedom Camper 58″ x 79″: Compact Width, More Sleeping Space
If you’re looking for a small truck bed camper with extra width but want to keep the overall length manageable, the 58″ x 79″ might be your sweet spot. It’s ideal for people who sleep on their side or want a bit more wiggle room while still fitting in many truck beds and trailers.
This model fits well in 6.5-foot truck beds and some 8-foot beds with the tailgate shut. Like other 58” wide models, it requires a raised platform to clear the wheel wells, but it works well with drawer systems like Decked if you already have one installed.
The extra interior width—54 inches versus 44 inches in the 48” models—makes a big difference. You can fit a larger sleeping pad, share the space with a partner more comfortably, or store gear along the walls inside the camper.
This is a great small truck bed camper if you’re seeking a balance between compact footprint and livable space, especially for couples or taller adventurers who like to travel light but sleep well.
Freedom Camper 58″ x 89″: The Most Popular Small Truck Bed Camper
The 58″ x 89″ model is Freedom Camper’s best-selling size—and for good reason. It offers the most sleeping space and internal volume without crossing the line into bulky territory. If you own a full-size truck or plan to use a utility trailer, this one checks nearly every box.
This small truck bed camper fits 5.5 to 8-foot beds and is trailer-compatible with 5×8 trailers and larger. Like the 58” x 79” model, it requires a raised platform in most truck beds to clear wheel wells, but the extra space makes the setup worth it for extended trips or year-round travel.
Inside, you get a 54-inch-wide sleeping area that’s nearly 85 inches long—great for tall folks or those who like to store gear inside. It’s also still under 200 pounds, so it won’t strain your suspension or eat up your MPG.
If you want a small truck bed camper that can serve as your basecamp in all four seasons—and one that doesn’t feel cramped—the 58″ x 89″ is a top-tier choice.
Understanding Raised Platforms and Truck Bed Drawer Systems
Several Freedom Camper models require a raised platform to clear your truck’s wheel wells. This helps create a flat, stable surface for mounting and sleeping. If you’re already using a drawer system like Decked, you might be partway there already.
Freedom Camper provides DIY platform instructions, and it’s not a difficult job. The platform can be built from plywood and framing lumber and installed in a few hours. It can also double as storage underneath your camper if designed with drawers or bins in mind.
One key advantage of having a platform is modularity. You can keep gear underneath, run wiring for solar panels or lights, and remove the entire system when you’re not camping. It keeps your truck bed versatile for work or travel.
If you’re considering a 58” wide or 48″ x 79″ camper model, planning your raised platform ahead of time ensures a smoother install and better camping experience overall.
FAQ
How do I know which Freedom Camper fits my truck?
Check your truck bed length, width between the wheel wells, and download the Truck Compatibility Guide to match your vehicle to the right model.
Do all Freedom Camper models require a platform?
No. The 48″ x 89″ model is designed to sit flat in full-size truck beds without a platform. All other models typically require a raised surface to clear the wheel wells.
What’s the lightest Freedom Camper?
The 48” x 79” and 48” x 89” models weigh around 180 pounds, making them some of the lightest small truck bed camper options available.
Can I use a Freedom Camper on a trailer?
Yes. All Freedom Camper models are trailer-compatible with the included trailer mounting kit. Just make sure your trailer deck is large enough—5×8 or bigger is ideal.
Is the extra width in the 58” Freedom Camper model noticeable?
Absolutely. The extra 10 inches makes a big difference, especially if you’re camping with someone else or want room for gear inside.
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