As someone who’s deeply involved in the overlanding world, I’ve tested my fair share of truck campers, rooftop tents, ground tents, and trailers. Each has its pros and cons, but every now and then, a product comes along that redefines what’s possible in compact camping setups.
Skinny Guy Campers is one of those game-changers…
I’ve had the opportunity to see their camper up close at the Overland West Expo over the last few years and spent quality time with their team. As you can see in the video above, I recently took a Skinny Guy Camper out in the field with the folks at BTR Outfitters in Abilene, Texas. The result? A full hands-on review of one of the most innovative campers on the market today.
Let’s explore what this camper offers you for your overlanding adventures.
Table of Contents
- Skinny Guy Camper Review: Compact Yet Capable
- Innovative Design and Impressive Living Space
- Skinny Guy Camper Review: A Setup for Solo Adventurers and Families Alike
- Field Performance: Handling Extreme Weather Like a Pro<
- Skinny Guy Camper Review: Flexibility for Different Lifestyles
- Skinny Guy Trailers: Tons of Options
- Off-Grid Capability: Built for Adventure
- Trade-Offs: Not Without Challenges
- Final Thoughts: Is the Skinny Guy Camper Right for You?
Skinny Guy Camper Review: Compact Yet Capable
One of the first things that caught my attention about the Skinny Guy Camper is how it maximizes functionality while maintaining a compact profile. Truck campers often come with trade-offs, like adding significant height or bulk to your rig (which, for many, is an eyesore), which can hinder aerodynamics and off-road capability. Not so with Skinny Guy.
When the camper is closed, it sits flush with the cab height, ensuring minimal wind resistance and making it easier to store in low-clearance spaces like garages. This is particularly appealing for those of us who want the option of using our rigs as daily drivers without the hassle of excessive height or complexity.
But the magic really happens when the camper is deployed. What looks like a sleek, low-profile truck camper unfolds pretty quickly into a spacious, fully-equipped living space that can handle everything from quick weekend getaways to extended off-grid expeditions.
Innovative Design and Impressive Living Space
Skinny Guy Campers really cracked the matrix on fitting a full range of amenities into such a compact unit…
Even their base model, the “Skin ’N Bones,” comes with more features than many other truck campers or canopy-style setups on the market. The genius of the Skinny Guy Camper is in its layout and incredibly smart and intuitive use of space.
At first glance, the camper may seem modest, but once you crack that thing open, you’re greeted with a fully functional kitchen, a toilet, a freshwater system, and even a heater. These aren’t just gimmicks thrown in for show; they’re well-designed, highly functional features that make a real difference when you’re out in the wilderness.
The 36-gallon water tank in the 6.5-foot bed model is especially impressive, providing more than enough capacity for several days of off-grid living, and that’s not even mentioning the rain-gathering ability this thing has.
Skinny Guy Camper Review: A Setup for Solo Adventurers and Families Alike
I often travel solo or with my son, so ease of setup is a key factor for me. Skinny Guy Campers have designed their units with flexibility and ease of use in mind. The camper is relatively simple to set up (can be set up in under two minutes), though it does take more time and effort compared to pop-up tents or simpler rooftop tent systems. However, the trade-off is the substantial increase in living space and amenities.
The first time I set up the Skinny Guy Camper during my trip to Abilene, I was struck by how intuitive the process was. The proprietary jack system makes it easy to remove the camper from the truck when needed full access to the bed. This feature is a game-changer for those of us who use their trucks for other purposes besides overlanding. Whether you need to haul equipment, load up for a family trip, or simply enjoy the flexibility of an open truck bed, the Skinny Guy’s jack system gives you that versatility.
What also impressed me is the camper’s modularity…
The base model is ready for upgrades, with pre-drilled cabinets that make it easy to add additional features down the road. If you like to customize your setup, this is a massive selling point. You can start with the essentials and upgrade over time as your needs evolve. Whether you’re looking to add more storage, a better power system, or additional creature comforts, Skinny Guy has designed their campers to grow with you.
Field Performance: Handling Extreme Weather Like a Pro
During my time with the Skinny Guy Camper in Abilene, Texas, I experienced the heat of the Texas sun, which gave me a chance to see how the camper performed in warmer conditions. But that wasn’t the first time I’d seen the Skinny Guy put to the test…
Just a year earlier, at the Overland West Expo in Flagstaff, Arizona, a massive storm rolled in, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and even sleet and snow. It was an absolute mess. Right next to me, Brody from BTR Outfitters was camping out in a Skinny Guy Camper. Curious about how it would hold up in such crazy weather, I went over to check it out.
To my surprise, the Skinny Guy Camper was warm, toasty, and completely comfortable inside, even as the storm raged outside. The Truma Combi Eco heater kept the interior at a perfect temperature, and despite the camper’s compact size, it felt spacious and secure. Seeing how well it performed in those extreme cold-weather conditions solidified my belief in its versatility.
The Skinny Guy’s integrated solar and power systems also performed flawlessly in both hot and cold environments. Their partnership with Redarc ensures top-tier power management, keeping everything running smoothly—from the refrigerator to the lights and heater. Redarc is simply one of my favorite battery management systems for some very good reasons. The propane system is another standout feature, as it powers both the internal stove and can be used for an external camp stove, making cooking just as easy outside as inside.
Keep Reading: Which is Best for Camping: A Removable Truck Camper or Towable Trailer?
Skinny Guy Camper Review: Flexibility for Different Lifestyles
The Skinny Guy Camper is more than just a great option for solo adventurers like myself. This is another great example of ‘small axes chop big trees’. It’s also well-suited for small families or couples looking for a minimalist but highly functional camping experience. The benches inside the camper can double as beds, providing enough sleeping space for a family with young children. The built-in toilet is another feature that families will appreciate, especially during those late-night bathroom trips.
What also sets Skinny Guy apart is its attention to detail in terms of long-term use. Many truck campers on the market are either too basic or too complex, making them impractical for regular use. The Skinny Guy strikes a balance, offering enough amenities to be comfortable for extended trips but remaining simple and rugged enough to handle rough terrain and remote locations. If you’re a hunter, overlander, or outdoor enthusiast in general who spends long periods off-grid, this camper provides everything you need without unnecessary bells and whistles.
Skinny Guy Trailers: Tons of Options
In addition to their truck campers, Skinny Guy has recently expanded into trailer options in collaboration with XVenture Trailers. This is great news for SUV owners or those who prefer the flexibility of towing their setup rather than mounting it on a truck. While I haven’t had a chance to test the trailer yet, I’ve heard great things from fellow overlanders who value the extra space and versatility it provides. For those who prefer a trailer-based setup, this could be a fantastic alternative.
Off-Grid Capability: Built for Adventure
One of the major selling points of the Skinny Guy Camper is its ability to keep you off-grid for extended periods. With a 36-gallon water tank, integrated-190 watt solar power, a heater, and a built-in toilet, you can comfortably sustain yourself in remote areas without having to rely on external resources. This makes the Skinny Guy an excellent choice for overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts who spend weeks at a time away from civilization.
The camper’s relatively compact size also makes it ideal for navigating rough trails and off-road terrain. Unlike some larger, bulkier truck campers that can hinder your vehicle’s off-road performance, the Skinny Guy maintains a low profile and doesn’t add excessive weight or height. This keeps your truck nimble and capable, allowing you to reach more remote and challenging destinations. That said, just keep in mind you will have a higher center gravity to mind too.
Trade-Offs: Not Without Challenges
No product is perfect, and the Skinny Guy Camper does come with a few trade-offs…
The most noticeable issue I encountered was the setup process. While manageable for someone with experience, it’s more involved than some of the quicker pop-up options on the market. If you prioritize speed and simplicity, this could be a downside. However, I would argue that the additional time is worth it, considering the space and amenities you gain once the camper is fully set up.
Another potential drawback is storage capacity. While there is some storage inside the camper, it’s limited for those traveling with a lot of gear. The majority of storage space is under the camper (roughly 12” height space in the bed), in the truck bed itself, which works well if you have a drawer system (check out Decked system) or cargo slide.
I know people who use a cargo slide with watertight boxes, which allows them easy access to their belongings without sacrificing too much space. For larger families or groups, this might require some creative packing solutions.
Final Thoughts: Is the Skinny Guy Camper Right for You?
After spending significant time with the Skinny Guy Camper, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most innovative and versatile truck campers on the market. It’s a fun all-in-one camper with a foot print when it’s packed up. So whether you’re a solo adventurer, have a small family, or looking to explore the great outdoors with your significant other in comfort, this camper offers a solid basecamp for any trip.
The Skinny Guy’s modular design, ease of use, and off-grid capabilities make it a fantastic investment for overlanders who need more than just a basic shelter. While the setup process might take a bit longer than some alternatives, the added living space and features more than make up for it. Storage can be a challenge, but with the right packing solutions, it’s more than manageable.
If you’re serious about overlanding and need a camper that can handle diverse conditions and extended periods off-grid, the Skinny Guy Camper should definitely be on your radar. With a thoughtful design, high-quality materials, and a focus on user-friendly features, Skinny Guy has redefined what’s possible in a truck camper. And with the expertise of the folks at BTR Outfitters, you can confidently invest in the right camper for your specific needs.
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