Truck Camper Guide for Adventurer & Eagle Cap Campers

When purchasing a Truck Camper, there are a few important factors to consider:

How much weight can your truck handle?

There are three things to consider.

  1. The payload capacity - sometimes this rating is posted in the glove box of your truck, if not, another way to determine payload capacity would be to weigh your truck, full of fuel, people and of course the dog and then subtract that weight from the (GVWR) posted on the door of your truck and that difference would equal your payload capacity (weight of camper you can carry). Example, your truck weighs 6800lbs and the GVWR on the door reads 9900lbs your payload would be 3100lbs (9900lbs-6800lbs=3100lbs).

  2. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - is the maximum weight the manufacturer rates that truck to carry, including weight of the truck and all people. Cargo, fuel etc.

  3. GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - is the maximum rating the manufacturer rates the axles to carry. To determine these ratings on your truck with cargo (camper) weigh your truck again with just the front and then just the rear axle on the scales, this will give you your axle ratings on your truck with your camper. These ratings are usually posted on the driver’s side doorpost.

As the owner, it is your responsibility not to exceed the weight specifications of your truck when purchasing a truck camper. Always think safety first before loading a camper on your truck. Please consult your dealer, who can help you select aftermarket items designed to aid in proper use of your truck and camper combination.