How to Make a Truck Tent
During the spring and summer months, many people enjoy camping out in the wilderness away from ambient light, and the hustle and bustle of the city. For some folks, camping is a far from desirable vacation. For those who prefer not to sleep in the dirt with worms, beetles and centipedes, and for those who prefer modern luxuries to "roughing it," there is a simple way to go camping without leaving the home. If there's a pickup truck in your driveway, you can go camping without leaving home by creating a simple truck tent. Get out the tarp and open the truck bed door.
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Things You'll Need
- Tarp
- (4) 4-by-2 inch boards, 52 inches long
- String
- Saw (optional)
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Masking tape
- Children (optional)
Instructions
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1
Measure the pickup truck's cap holes. The cap holes are located on all four corners of the truck's upper edge. The measurements will determine what size boards you need for this project. On most standard-sized pickups, the cap holes are 4 by 2 inches.
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2
Stick each board inside the cap holes. There should be enough space to adjust the boards so the heights are even, but enough tightness to where the boards will not slip out of the holes easily. If the boards are too loose, wrap masking tape around the boards in order to create a more snug fit. Make sure the tape isn't loose so it doesn't attach itself to the truck.
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3
Stretch the tarp across the tops of all four boards. You may need some assistance. Stretch the tarp over the two boards that are closest to the truck windows. Tie a rope tightly around the board and tarp. Make sure that the tarp or rope doesn't slide, because sliding could indicate that your tent will not withstand sudden wind gusts. Repeat with the remaining boards.
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4
Drape the rest of the tarp over the sides of the truck bed. This will really create the illusion of a tent.
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Tips & Warnings
You may keep the front and back portions of the tent open, but if rain is forecast, you may want to keep them closed.
Make sure to clean the pickup truck's bed. It's best not to create pickup truck tents with brand new pickups. Sticking the boards inside the cap holes may cause scratching.
