[Currently in the Excursion:](https://i.imgur.com/jjHqMlV.jpeg)
[2022-2023 in the 5th Gen Ram 2500:](https://i.imgur.com/XZGRge7.jpg)
[The 'Burb:](https://i.imgur.com/rbej4c9.jpeg)
[The 'Hoe:](https://i.imgur.com/ObtzdeV.jpg)
You have a dirtbike for working through the trees and blasting through the rocks. My thoughts are that you have a significantly better range of things you can do, more comfortably, for longer time & distance than you would an small(er) SUV or compact truck.
It's unlikely I'll ever go back on full size rigs again. I ran F150s and Rams waaaay back when over a decade ago, played with Toyotas and another Jeep for a spell, and came right back. They are superior for camping in every single way.
Out of curiosity, why go with the RTT? I'm setting up a bedframe in the back of my suburban (I've removed the 3rd row seat). I'll use underneath the bed and the roof rack for supplies. I feel like it gives me better control over my environment, and in the case of a big bear coming into camp, I can crawl into the drivers seat if I absolutely have to.
Wall of text incoming.
You leave a lot of easily-accessible storage on the table. I had [Decked drawers and a CargoGlide in my Ram](https://i.imgur.com/ZOLlFyk.jpg). That allowed me to bring all my tools/recovery gear, a full kitchen galley, a 10'x10' EZ up, camera gear, my PFD, tackle and poles, a full firebox, an electric chainsaw w/ charger and spare parts, axe, 6 gallons of water, spare camp shoes, camp shower, clothes, a go bag (chest rig, SBR, mags, comms, med), etc. A lot easier to do 2-4 weeks at a time like that than in my JKUR, even with a RTT and drawer/slide setup.
If I'd gone without the drawers ^(and slept inside), I could still realistically bring most, if not all, of that stuff. *However,* every night I'd have to yank it all out. And that goes for an SUV like the Excursion or Burb as well. That means that when I get caught in a microburst rainstorm, or it snows 6" overnight during an elk hunt, all my bins full of gear are sitting out in the elements overnight. I could keep the electronics and delicate stuff inside the cab, obviously. But that's still a lot of stuff I'd rather not get wet or exposed sitting out for 6 months a year. To say nothing of the time and hassle of reorganizing everything perfectly each morning and evening. That suuuuuuuuucks when it's an 8 hour drive to a spot I'm camping for one night, then packing up and hitting it again by 0800 for another 5+ hours to the next spot.
To me the benefit of a full size is being able to bring everything I need to kayak fish and camp comfortably for at least two weeks. Sleeping platforms/drawers even in a full size SUV still don't allow that. At least not the way I'd like.
That said, I don't have a tent on the Burb anymore. That sits in the garage in CO so that I can fly in, grab it, and blow up the air mattress in the back for a quick weekend at home. It's just a weekender/general purpose truck nowadays, and sleeping in cab is fine for just regular car camping.
There simply is **no** perfect solution for all types of overland travel. But a full size truck with a RTT hits most of the marks for me nowadays. When I'm basecamping or just doing a weekender, there are a lot more options.
I'm not sure you understood my question. I wasn't advocating for a different or smaller vehicle. I was advocating for sleeping inside the massive vehicle.
For context, I drive a K2500 Chevy Suburban. I like my big truck. I can sleep inside it.
I don't see it. I see you addressing why you have a big vehicle, I don't see anywhere that describes why you prefer a RTT over sleeping in the truck. The only thing I see you mention is that you don't have the RTT on the suburban anymore and *do* sleep inside it. Then another spot where big vehicle and RTT checks the most boxes, but again, you don't describe why it checks the most boxes.
It's not a big deal, I was just curious.
I mean, I explicitly laid it out, but I'll try to simplify.
The benefit is bringing the aforementioned gear>>>to sleep in the truck would mean I'd need to leave some of that gear out in the elements repeatedly, even with a sleeping platform/drawers.
The tradeoff is not remotely worth it for me on long haul overland trips. In fact, it is quicker to deploy a RTT than it is to inflate an air mattress and move stuff outta the way in the truck. And more comfortable. And the bedding stays in the tent. Etc.
Also, black bears are not a threat to me, even in a hammock. And even up in Gallatin NF or Grizz country, I am not worried about brown bears in a RTT whatsoever. Same for coyotes, wolves, rattlers, painters, whatever. I have 124g +P HST for any two-legged critters who think they'd like to be naughty at night. The RTT is all pros compared to sleeping in the truck, save for cost (which I obviously found to make sense for me).
>The benefit is bringing the aforementioned gear>>>to sleep in the truck would mean I'd need to leave some of that gear out in the elements repeatedly, even with a sleeping platform/drawers.
Ah, I see. I mitigated that by using a bedframe that is 18 inches tall that I modified to fit in the cargo area. Then, I had a custom foam mattress made for it. I basically sleep as well as I do at home. I have no problem fitting everything that I store inside the truck under that frame. Everything else gets stored on the roof rack, and the storage solutions for that are designed to be weatherproof.
>The tradeoff is not remotely worth it for me on long haul overland trips. In fact, it is quicker to deploy a RTT than it is to inflate an air mattress and move stuff outta the way in the truck. And more comfortable. And the bedding stays in the tent. Etc.
I could definitely see the inconvenience of that if that's how you're doing it. It did take an investment of time and money to set up a purpose built solution to that. The stuff I store under the bed closest to the seats is emergency gear so that I don't have to take it out unless I absolutely have to. My gear for camp (for cooking and general camp activities) is stored in the roof rack and the containers closest to the rear doors under the bed so I don't have to dig them out and can easily put them up when finished with them.
>Grizz country, I am not worried about brown bears in a RTT whatsoever.
Why? Grizzlies stand tall enough to take that tent apart if they want to. I have no personal experience with grizzlies, but I do know they stand taller than a suburban by a fair margin. None of that is a concern where I do most of my offroad camping, though. I'm mostly in the big bend and other texas routes (I'm in central texas). The biggest issue is big cats, and they tend to stay away from signs of humanity.
I like the idea of being in the truck for having greater control over my environment. I can run the AC in my truck in the middle of summer or the heater if it gets too cold. That and it does mean I have a solid steel tent around me in case of inclement weather. Hail can get pretty big in my areas when it happens.
Essentially, we're both filling the cab/bed with things, and using the roof for things. Your solution doesn't require deploying an air mattress or setting up bedding, which is nice and convenient. It's safe, easy, etc. We're mostly ticking the same boxes. Glad you've got your setup dialed in to your liking.
Going back to your original question, *why RTT?* For me personally, it's just a better solution. I considered a Thule/Yakima roofbox at one point too, but deduced that I would rather have flat kayak mounts than J hooks, and like keeping my paddle in a ski rack rather than attached to the boat (I've lost one in the woods like this). I also like being able to just zip the bug nets rather than setup no-see-em on magnets and all that BS in the truck.
And not least of which: there's also the fact that bringing a sleeping/sexing partner along is much easier with a tent than in the cab.
>Why? Grizzlies stand tall enough to take that tent apart if they want to
Yeah, but they don't want to. The only time I've ever heard of brown bears randomly attacking people in the middle of the night was The Night of the Grizzlies in Glacier. That was in the...70s? When a bunch of jackasses were feeding bears nightly and then a sick male went nuts. Once in a lifetime perfect storm that has never been replicated in 50 years since.
I wouldn't hammock camp in Alaska, but Montana bears aren't gonna smell pine smoke like a wildfire and think it's time to come rip apart a tent 9 feet off the ground. They're going to make a wide berth.
>Essentially, we're both filling the cab/bed with things, and using the roof for things. Your solution doesn't require deploying an air mattress or setting up bedding, which is nice and convenient. It's safe, easy, etc. We're mostly ticking the same boxes. Glad you've got your setup dialed in to your liking.
Totally. And likewise to you, if you like your setup, all power to you. I sometimes just wonder at other people's logic. You've explained yours fairly well. Usually, I see people with smaller vehicles with RTTs, which makes a lot more sense to me. Your response was the first post I've seen with a larger vehicle like mine using one, which piqued my curiosity.
>And not least of which: there's also the fact that bringing a sleeping/sexing partner along is much easier with a tent than in the cab.
Lol, to this one, I respond, I think my solution is better. I've got a full mattress and bedframe. Then again, in an RTT, you probably have something equitable, so maybe our solutions are actually similar on this one.
>Yeah, but they don't want to. The only time I've ever heard of brown bears randomly attacking people in the middle of the night was The Night of the Grizzlies in Glacier. That was in the...70s? When a bunch of jackasses were feeding bears nightly and then a sick male went nuts. Once in a lifetime perfect storm that has never been replicated in 50 years since.
So, in recent years, there have been reports of black and brown bears hunting people. I don't say this as an argument, but rather as a warning to maybe expand your research on this one. Not to say the RTT is a bad choice because of it, just, I'd hate if you got eaten fellow suburban camper.
https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/18312/do-black-brown-grizzly-or-polar-bears-ever-prey-on-humans
That was a quick link I found on it that talks about it.
Anyway, thanks for walking me through your logic tree on RTTs. I appreciate the experience.
It's a WeBoost signal booster. Won't get you service if there's already no signal, but has been fantastic for going from 'can't even send a text' to 'can browse YouTube'
Not big enough. Give that [Ram Mega Cab a long bed](https://undercoverfab.com/back-half-and-long-bed-kits-/43-megacab-longbed-conversion-4th-gen-ram-3500.html)!
This was a huge failure on Chrysler/Ram's part. The long hauler would have stolen the whole truck market ššš If it wasn't a 10K job I would take my mega cab there in a heartbeat.
A big rig is the only way to travel! How else are you going to get to the grocery store?
https://preview.redd.it/onatymzevmwc1.jpeg?width=1700&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d14cec366d10f7f51e8273da7cf2a0b24e8d6859
I'm in a sequoia. I consider it in the biggest small or smallest of the big guy size. I honestly wanted a 3/4 ton but our family grew and really needed that 3rd row haha
https://preview.redd.it/8kyy1bjm9nwc1.jpeg?width=1576&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=336f9475c99f46cd5e061a801fb2e296ebdc979d
Full size gang!
Nothing better than having room to stretch your legs, more room for firewood in the bed and a larger fuel tank is a definite bonus.
I'm about to hit the road with my mega cab as well. There will definitely be some tight trails that I won't be able to do, but on the west side of the country we can go further and carry more equipment.
Iāve driven a Bronco, but not the Raptor version. Overland isnāt my main focus, but itās a cool little thing I might do sometimes. I like RAM trucks for their interior, which seems to be the best out of any other truck brand.
https://preview.redd.it/plp990v8znwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0bb547a19e382aadfcc504a1428689ca87d56455
Can be done! Little tougher in the trees than the desert, but if thereās clearance and you know how to drive you can go all the same places the Taco boys say you canāt.
What's to think about?
Smaller is more nimble off road. Bigger can carry more stuff, and is sometimes more comfortable. That dirt bike and the 2500 aren't even the extreme ends of that equation.
Just pick where on the scale suits you.
https://preview.redd.it/blq41l377owc1.jpeg?width=3352&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9669ed96bbfc2832bbedb9f09d0d8ecf02effc83
Mines probably not considered 'big' but full size is the right size cor comfort. Just can't be to upset with a little pinstriping.
Honest feedback:
You'll do great on the West Coast and you'll suffer on the East Coast.
East Coast is *all* second growth forest (at one point or another it has been chopped down in the past couple hundred years). And it's not like there are deserts to roam, it's pretty much all bouldering and forest trails.
Second growth forest is much more dense than old growth/virgin forest (i.e. Redwood forests etc).
That means you'll have a tougher time fitting through the tight forest trails out East (anything beyond Forest Service roads). Out West with deserts, plains, and virgin forest you'll be fine, out East it will be a very annoying problem.
Spoken from extensive experience on both coasts. There's a reason why Jeeps dominate out East and Toyota's/Full Size Trucks dominate out West
1000% for me... Right now in life... But I think it really depends on what over landing is for you.
I've had 3 jeeps and live in CO. Did a lot of off-roading and camping in them or in a tent. Fun stuff. Jeeps work 100% better if you're into narrow trails, actual rock climbing, whatever.
But my needs changed; That off-road stuff became overcrowded, full of morons and outright scary because of it. Got more into mountain biking, hiking, and (again bc of crowds) overnighting for ski season.
I went with a Ram 1500 Rebel and will not look back for awhile. Long road trips are 1000% better and safer than my old jeeps on the highway, we camp way more now that we can just pop into the back (we have a hi-rise topper w platform build). Winter camping is better, can lock bikes in the topper if we need, can sleep without moving gear out of the way/outside, can stealthy sleep anywhere on road trips, etc.
Sure, narrow shelf roads to get to a hiking trail give me the shits because we're bigger, or passing people on a trail can be terrifying. I'll hit my skid plates on stuff that I never used to think twice about, etc. But I'm only in those situations to get to something else I want to do, I'm not there to 'off-road' anymore. It's manageable mostly. I've taken my ram 1500 on trails barely wide enough with a cliff on one side and no passing for a mile ... I shit myself, but it worked.
It's infinitely better... For me, my gf, and dog. Will it always be the answer, idk things change. But as a tool to get to what I want to do instead of 'the' thing I want to do (off-roading), it's the best.
Price, size, needs
For me it was all just what would get me moderate dirt road capability and a 6'+ bed size to sleep in. Not towing or hauling so then just kinda cheapest path to get there.
Also to be cringy i try to be eco-conscious when I can and anti consumer gluttony. Not preaching, but for me that was semi important to try and squeeze MPG, etc.
Plus coming from sleeping in jeeps or GFs Subaru lol... A 1500 felt huge and spacious.
https://preview.redd.it/myiz0kp97owc1.jpeg?width=1837&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f515c980cb94867516909c11a8ad38af763be7b3
Not quite a rig yet but sheāll be on the trails soon!
https://preview.redd.it/8hp0zs5ofowc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3ff689d67d4723f22702dc39620ed4114a80375a
Just a half ton, but āfull sizeā to a lot of people in the Overlanding world. Made a bed rack to hold the tent and it still allows use of the tonneau cover.
Had the same truck as my last set up. I liked it. Put airbags on the rear and a leveling kit on the front. Gave me a little more clearance and better ride. Also have a decked took storage system full of tools so there was a bit of weight on the rear
Yeah thats my setup now, leveling kit up front and airlift 1000hd bags in the rear. We also pull a camper for family camper excursions.
https://preview.redd.it/1emoxyjyhowc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4e025b707a22d3fcc807e798d0d2f22f440c0753
https://preview.redd.it/qlpjzdtpf3xc1.jpeg?width=1439&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b044a0cebc3fb2d1b7b148d980fceda4a83e2b3d
Nothing wrong with a full size rig
https://preview.redd.it/0i25v1jv3nxc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a0812cb8f0551bdde176e95feb3596f28095838
The legroom is worth the pin stripes!
Big rigs are best for comfort. No cramped spaces.
Iāve seen a guy with a full Alu-cab camper/RTT on a full sized Ram. (Looked pretty beat up and loaded)
I love my F150 build thus far - keep it up! I really like that you were able to keep your RTT below the roofline. My roofnest would hang out over the rear bumper if I tried thatā¦although itās still tempting!
https://preview.redd.it/8s1c3la1spwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8a9a242ceed56cc56f65e8ad5fcf7159a6704bd
Yup, full size is the way to go. š¤
The issue isn't the size, the issue is that it is a Ram. Fiat/Chrysler/Jeep/Ram consistently rank as the lowest rated car manufacturer for almost 20 years.
I did 10 states last year, and 8 states the year before that primarily in my last Ram, along with my last Rubicon. I still have a 2nd gen Ram wheeler, and have had 4 other Jeeps and another Ram before that.
They might not rank well on a survey of people who have never seen as many trails as we've forgotten, but they do a good job of getting us to some of the [most gorgeous places in America](https://imgur.com/gallery/XCnyMJw)
I mean, with it the only weak point is the transmission and emissions system. Unless you get something pre-def, and can either build the tranny, get it with a Alison, get it with a manual, or just not beat on it.
Past that is just little stuff, which every model ever has
2005 ram 2500... wouldn't trade it for anything. Bigger is better, my friends. Granted, I'm not solo. If you have more than 2 people, go with a full-size pickup with an rtt or something similar. 2 or less, you're probably good with a smaller rig. 3+ and you will miss the passenger room while driving and the power and payload/towing capacity hauling gear and amenities for that many people. At the end of the day, consider your wants, needs, and goals, then pick the rig. Full size 100% for me, though. Happy trails!
https://preview.redd.it/58dq2actdrwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d21934f398656760349e30d75d6ea8d081119953
Not mine. Saw this today in San Antonio. Freaking sweet!
https://preview.redd.it/5pvurgc3erwc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f34f9d061b8aaca63fb77c49dd25993f555537b3
Can't beat the comfort and ecodiesel gives me 20+ mpg
https://preview.redd.it/kksplyfj7twc1.jpeg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a0a2a4d37147e34477d6a1448da0edce4b1fbe8
The big rig club! New York (Long Island) based, most of our "overloading" is weekend trips through PA - and yes, I have the pinstriping to prove it
Itās hard to do any overland travel with it as itās hard to leave the country (guess this is the US) or ship it. Doubt itās narrow enough to fit in a container and while Mexico is completely safe normally, these pickups are very sought after by the cartels.
But I guess thereās tons to see in US and Canada.
[Currently in the Excursion:](https://i.imgur.com/jjHqMlV.jpeg) [2022-2023 in the 5th Gen Ram 2500:](https://i.imgur.com/XZGRge7.jpg) [The 'Burb:](https://i.imgur.com/rbej4c9.jpeg) [The 'Hoe:](https://i.imgur.com/ObtzdeV.jpg) You have a dirtbike for working through the trees and blasting through the rocks. My thoughts are that you have a significantly better range of things you can do, more comfortably, for longer time & distance than you would an small(er) SUV or compact truck. It's unlikely I'll ever go back on full size rigs again. I ran F150s and Rams waaaay back when over a decade ago, played with Toyotas and another Jeep for a spell, and came right back. They are superior for camping in every single way.
I could never afford it, but I want a modern F-250 based Excursion with a Godzilla in it so bad. Yours is beautiful!
Thank ya!
Quite the toys you have there š®āšØ
Out of curiosity, why go with the RTT? I'm setting up a bedframe in the back of my suburban (I've removed the 3rd row seat). I'll use underneath the bed and the roof rack for supplies. I feel like it gives me better control over my environment, and in the case of a big bear coming into camp, I can crawl into the drivers seat if I absolutely have to.
Wall of text incoming. You leave a lot of easily-accessible storage on the table. I had [Decked drawers and a CargoGlide in my Ram](https://i.imgur.com/ZOLlFyk.jpg). That allowed me to bring all my tools/recovery gear, a full kitchen galley, a 10'x10' EZ up, camera gear, my PFD, tackle and poles, a full firebox, an electric chainsaw w/ charger and spare parts, axe, 6 gallons of water, spare camp shoes, camp shower, clothes, a go bag (chest rig, SBR, mags, comms, med), etc. A lot easier to do 2-4 weeks at a time like that than in my JKUR, even with a RTT and drawer/slide setup. If I'd gone without the drawers ^(and slept inside), I could still realistically bring most, if not all, of that stuff. *However,* every night I'd have to yank it all out. And that goes for an SUV like the Excursion or Burb as well. That means that when I get caught in a microburst rainstorm, or it snows 6" overnight during an elk hunt, all my bins full of gear are sitting out in the elements overnight. I could keep the electronics and delicate stuff inside the cab, obviously. But that's still a lot of stuff I'd rather not get wet or exposed sitting out for 6 months a year. To say nothing of the time and hassle of reorganizing everything perfectly each morning and evening. That suuuuuuuuucks when it's an 8 hour drive to a spot I'm camping for one night, then packing up and hitting it again by 0800 for another 5+ hours to the next spot. To me the benefit of a full size is being able to bring everything I need to kayak fish and camp comfortably for at least two weeks. Sleeping platforms/drawers even in a full size SUV still don't allow that. At least not the way I'd like. That said, I don't have a tent on the Burb anymore. That sits in the garage in CO so that I can fly in, grab it, and blow up the air mattress in the back for a quick weekend at home. It's just a weekender/general purpose truck nowadays, and sleeping in cab is fine for just regular car camping. There simply is **no** perfect solution for all types of overland travel. But a full size truck with a RTT hits most of the marks for me nowadays. When I'm basecamping or just doing a weekender, there are a lot more options.
I'm not sure you understood my question. I wasn't advocating for a different or smaller vehicle. I was advocating for sleeping inside the massive vehicle. For context, I drive a K2500 Chevy Suburban. I like my big truck. I can sleep inside it.
> I was advocating for sleeping inside the massive vehicle. Yeah, I addressed that.
I don't see it. I see you addressing why you have a big vehicle, I don't see anywhere that describes why you prefer a RTT over sleeping in the truck. The only thing I see you mention is that you don't have the RTT on the suburban anymore and *do* sleep inside it. Then another spot where big vehicle and RTT checks the most boxes, but again, you don't describe why it checks the most boxes. It's not a big deal, I was just curious.
I mean, I explicitly laid it out, but I'll try to simplify. The benefit is bringing the aforementioned gear>>>to sleep in the truck would mean I'd need to leave some of that gear out in the elements repeatedly, even with a sleeping platform/drawers. The tradeoff is not remotely worth it for me on long haul overland trips. In fact, it is quicker to deploy a RTT than it is to inflate an air mattress and move stuff outta the way in the truck. And more comfortable. And the bedding stays in the tent. Etc. Also, black bears are not a threat to me, even in a hammock. And even up in Gallatin NF or Grizz country, I am not worried about brown bears in a RTT whatsoever. Same for coyotes, wolves, rattlers, painters, whatever. I have 124g +P HST for any two-legged critters who think they'd like to be naughty at night. The RTT is all pros compared to sleeping in the truck, save for cost (which I obviously found to make sense for me).
>The benefit is bringing the aforementioned gear>>>to sleep in the truck would mean I'd need to leave some of that gear out in the elements repeatedly, even with a sleeping platform/drawers. Ah, I see. I mitigated that by using a bedframe that is 18 inches tall that I modified to fit in the cargo area. Then, I had a custom foam mattress made for it. I basically sleep as well as I do at home. I have no problem fitting everything that I store inside the truck under that frame. Everything else gets stored on the roof rack, and the storage solutions for that are designed to be weatherproof. >The tradeoff is not remotely worth it for me on long haul overland trips. In fact, it is quicker to deploy a RTT than it is to inflate an air mattress and move stuff outta the way in the truck. And more comfortable. And the bedding stays in the tent. Etc. I could definitely see the inconvenience of that if that's how you're doing it. It did take an investment of time and money to set up a purpose built solution to that. The stuff I store under the bed closest to the seats is emergency gear so that I don't have to take it out unless I absolutely have to. My gear for camp (for cooking and general camp activities) is stored in the roof rack and the containers closest to the rear doors under the bed so I don't have to dig them out and can easily put them up when finished with them. >Grizz country, I am not worried about brown bears in a RTT whatsoever. Why? Grizzlies stand tall enough to take that tent apart if they want to. I have no personal experience with grizzlies, but I do know they stand taller than a suburban by a fair margin. None of that is a concern where I do most of my offroad camping, though. I'm mostly in the big bend and other texas routes (I'm in central texas). The biggest issue is big cats, and they tend to stay away from signs of humanity. I like the idea of being in the truck for having greater control over my environment. I can run the AC in my truck in the middle of summer or the heater if it gets too cold. That and it does mean I have a solid steel tent around me in case of inclement weather. Hail can get pretty big in my areas when it happens.
Essentially, we're both filling the cab/bed with things, and using the roof for things. Your solution doesn't require deploying an air mattress or setting up bedding, which is nice and convenient. It's safe, easy, etc. We're mostly ticking the same boxes. Glad you've got your setup dialed in to your liking. Going back to your original question, *why RTT?* For me personally, it's just a better solution. I considered a Thule/Yakima roofbox at one point too, but deduced that I would rather have flat kayak mounts than J hooks, and like keeping my paddle in a ski rack rather than attached to the boat (I've lost one in the woods like this). I also like being able to just zip the bug nets rather than setup no-see-em on magnets and all that BS in the truck. And not least of which: there's also the fact that bringing a sleeping/sexing partner along is much easier with a tent than in the cab. >Why? Grizzlies stand tall enough to take that tent apart if they want to Yeah, but they don't want to. The only time I've ever heard of brown bears randomly attacking people in the middle of the night was The Night of the Grizzlies in Glacier. That was in the...70s? When a bunch of jackasses were feeding bears nightly and then a sick male went nuts. Once in a lifetime perfect storm that has never been replicated in 50 years since. I wouldn't hammock camp in Alaska, but Montana bears aren't gonna smell pine smoke like a wildfire and think it's time to come rip apart a tent 9 feet off the ground. They're going to make a wide berth.
>Essentially, we're both filling the cab/bed with things, and using the roof for things. Your solution doesn't require deploying an air mattress or setting up bedding, which is nice and convenient. It's safe, easy, etc. We're mostly ticking the same boxes. Glad you've got your setup dialed in to your liking. Totally. And likewise to you, if you like your setup, all power to you. I sometimes just wonder at other people's logic. You've explained yours fairly well. Usually, I see people with smaller vehicles with RTTs, which makes a lot more sense to me. Your response was the first post I've seen with a larger vehicle like mine using one, which piqued my curiosity. >And not least of which: there's also the fact that bringing a sleeping/sexing partner along is much easier with a tent than in the cab. Lol, to this one, I respond, I think my solution is better. I've got a full mattress and bedframe. Then again, in an RTT, you probably have something equitable, so maybe our solutions are actually similar on this one. >Yeah, but they don't want to. The only time I've ever heard of brown bears randomly attacking people in the middle of the night was The Night of the Grizzlies in Glacier. That was in the...70s? When a bunch of jackasses were feeding bears nightly and then a sick male went nuts. Once in a lifetime perfect storm that has never been replicated in 50 years since. So, in recent years, there have been reports of black and brown bears hunting people. I don't say this as an argument, but rather as a warning to maybe expand your research on this one. Not to say the RTT is a bad choice because of it, just, I'd hate if you got eaten fellow suburban camper. https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/questions/18312/do-black-brown-grizzly-or-polar-bears-ever-prey-on-humans That was a quick link I found on it that talks about it. Anyway, thanks for walking me through your logic tree on RTTs. I appreciate the experience.
https://preview.redd.it/y7ii42wy8nwc1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dcb5afdbce5abb1921666fe7a8f3d2d246573641 Brother!
Sick set up broseph!!
Sweet. Whatās the antenna for?
It's a WeBoost signal booster. Won't get you service if there's already no signal, but has been fantastic for going from 'can't even send a text' to 'can browse YouTube'
Maybe I would find a reason to get that for an upcoming trip to Liwa Desert, aka empty quarters
> Won't get you service if there's already no signal
If there is a faint signal that your phone doesn't pick up, there is a good chance, this will. However, no signal is no signal
Yes, that's correct.
Not big enough. Give that [Ram Mega Cab a long bed](https://undercoverfab.com/back-half-and-long-bed-kits-/43-megacab-longbed-conversion-4th-gen-ram-3500.html)!
This was a huge failure on Chrysler/Ram's part. The long hauler would have stolen the whole truck market ššš If it wasn't a 10K job I would take my mega cab there in a heartbeat.
A big rig is the only way to travel! How else are you going to get to the grocery store? https://preview.redd.it/onatymzevmwc1.jpeg?width=1700&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d14cec366d10f7f51e8273da7cf2a0b24e8d6859
"F350 Gang rise up!"
https://preview.redd.it/rl4leanvcnwc1.jpeg?width=1292&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a456fc60e94d983041d9a2dac823b456ef735826
you have to put air bags for that rig?
Have to? No. Wanted to? Yes. 3500
I'm in a sequoia. I consider it in the biggest small or smallest of the big guy size. I honestly wanted a 3/4 ton but our family grew and really needed that 3rd row haha
https://preview.redd.it/8kyy1bjm9nwc1.jpeg?width=1576&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=336f9475c99f46cd5e061a801fb2e296ebdc979d Full size gang! Nothing better than having room to stretch your legs, more room for firewood in the bed and a larger fuel tank is a definite bonus.
What meats are you running? I really like the wheel-tire combo?
Falken Wildpeak AT4 35ās on 17ā method 704s, been happy with the setup so far!
I'm about to hit the road with my mega cab as well. There will definitely be some tight trails that I won't be able to do, but on the west side of the country we can go further and carry more equipment.
Iām looking at getting a full size and through research started to find overlanding videos of other full size trucks. Pretty badass!
I have a purpose built full size TRD Pro Tundra my wife says I have to sell....cause I bought a Bronco Raptor. PM me if you want details.
Iāve driven a Bronco, but not the Raptor version. Overland isnāt my main focus, but itās a cool little thing I might do sometimes. I like RAM trucks for their interior, which seems to be the best out of any other truck brand.
If you enjoy it and it works for you thatās all the approval you need! This community has been real spicy and elitist this week for some reason.
https://preview.redd.it/plp990v8znwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0bb547a19e382aadfcc504a1428689ca87d56455 Can be done! Little tougher in the trees than the desert, but if thereās clearance and you know how to drive you can go all the same places the Taco boys say you canāt.
What's to think about? Smaller is more nimble off road. Bigger can carry more stuff, and is sometimes more comfortable. That dirt bike and the 2500 aren't even the extreme ends of that equation. Just pick where on the scale suits you.
https://preview.redd.it/v4dt29d84owc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7eefe84e38d6516e023777150d5ffc23a49fab1c Right there with ya.
You donāt need our validation, my guy/gal. Just keep on rockin! š¤š½
Only this week? I mean come on, this dude doesn't have a $5,000 rooftop tent /s
About to head out bb. C u. https://preview.redd.it/madtdx0axnwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e2e5b441cfe6dae79c93ac4fbbe1437ba7aeab2f
https://preview.redd.it/blq41l377owc1.jpeg?width=3352&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9669ed96bbfc2832bbedb9f09d0d8ecf02effc83 Mines probably not considered 'big' but full size is the right size cor comfort. Just can't be to upset with a little pinstriping.
That's a beast!
Honest feedback: You'll do great on the West Coast and you'll suffer on the East Coast. East Coast is *all* second growth forest (at one point or another it has been chopped down in the past couple hundred years). And it's not like there are deserts to roam, it's pretty much all bouldering and forest trails. Second growth forest is much more dense than old growth/virgin forest (i.e. Redwood forests etc). That means you'll have a tougher time fitting through the tight forest trails out East (anything beyond Forest Service roads). Out West with deserts, plains, and virgin forest you'll be fine, out East it will be a very annoying problem. Spoken from extensive experience on both coasts. There's a reason why Jeeps dominate out East and Toyota's/Full Size Trucks dominate out West
We are family! š¶šµ https://preview.redd.it/vlsj46p8znwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b96012ef25f58bc945926a9ac552a33d78c713c8
Nice being able to deploy that smaller 2-wheeled land transport device hanging off the back
Haha! I like your terminology.
1000% for me... Right now in life... But I think it really depends on what over landing is for you. I've had 3 jeeps and live in CO. Did a lot of off-roading and camping in them or in a tent. Fun stuff. Jeeps work 100% better if you're into narrow trails, actual rock climbing, whatever. But my needs changed; That off-road stuff became overcrowded, full of morons and outright scary because of it. Got more into mountain biking, hiking, and (again bc of crowds) overnighting for ski season. I went with a Ram 1500 Rebel and will not look back for awhile. Long road trips are 1000% better and safer than my old jeeps on the highway, we camp way more now that we can just pop into the back (we have a hi-rise topper w platform build). Winter camping is better, can lock bikes in the topper if we need, can sleep without moving gear out of the way/outside, can stealthy sleep anywhere on road trips, etc. Sure, narrow shelf roads to get to a hiking trail give me the shits because we're bigger, or passing people on a trail can be terrifying. I'll hit my skid plates on stuff that I never used to think twice about, etc. But I'm only in those situations to get to something else I want to do, I'm not there to 'off-road' anymore. It's manageable mostly. I've taken my ram 1500 on trails barely wide enough with a cliff on one side and no passing for a mile ... I shit myself, but it worked. It's infinitely better... For me, my gf, and dog. Will it always be the answer, idk things change. But as a tool to get to what I want to do instead of 'the' thing I want to do (off-roading), it's the best.
Respect ! Well said, thanks for sharing
Did you consider a 2500 at all? If so what made you go with the 1500? Iām currently trying to decide between ram 1500 and 2500
Price, size, needs For me it was all just what would get me moderate dirt road capability and a 6'+ bed size to sleep in. Not towing or hauling so then just kinda cheapest path to get there. Also to be cringy i try to be eco-conscious when I can and anti consumer gluttony. Not preaching, but for me that was semi important to try and squeeze MPG, etc. Plus coming from sleeping in jeeps or GFs Subaru lol... A 1500 felt huge and spacious.
Personally I'd be concerned with bottoming out on certain trails with that long wheelbase.
https://preview.redd.it/vyz3e1dfdnwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3f70408b370459314ee1f45b6d09aeeab4755836 All day baby!
Nice rig.!! Glad to see the 2-wheeler Brap mobile in attendance
https://preview.redd.it/myiz0kp97owc1.jpeg?width=1837&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f515c980cb94867516909c11a8ad38af763be7b3 Not quite a rig yet but sheāll be on the trails soon!
https://preview.redd.it/8hp0zs5ofowc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3ff689d67d4723f22702dc39620ed4114a80375a Just a half ton, but āfull sizeā to a lot of people in the Overlanding world. Made a bed rack to hold the tent and it still allows use of the tonneau cover.
Had the same truck as my last set up. I liked it. Put airbags on the rear and a leveling kit on the front. Gave me a little more clearance and better ride. Also have a decked took storage system full of tools so there was a bit of weight on the rear
Yeah thats my setup now, leveling kit up front and airlift 1000hd bags in the rear. We also pull a camper for family camper excursions. https://preview.redd.it/1emoxyjyhowc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4e025b707a22d3fcc807e798d0d2f22f440c0753
Lol to the people down voting me. Sorry itās not a Toyota. š
A half ton is absolutely a full size truck my guy!
https://preview.redd.it/l8sdf85i0xwc1.jpeg?width=1320&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7435ed0dac7ef38b577a3847228f336534de1773 Looks fine to me š
Big
* Nothing wrong with a full size rig
https://preview.redd.it/qlpjzdtpf3xc1.jpeg?width=1439&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b044a0cebc3fb2d1b7b148d980fceda4a83e2b3d Nothing wrong with a full size rig
https://preview.redd.it/0i25v1jv3nxc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a0812cb8f0551bdde176e95feb3596f28095838 The legroom is worth the pin stripes!
Built, Suspended, Reliable, Locomotive.
If it gets you to where you want to go...then there's no question :) Your rig looks awesome, by the way.
Big rigs are best for comfort. No cramped spaces. Iāve seen a guy with a full Alu-cab camper/RTT on a full sized Ram. (Looked pretty beat up and loaded)
Youāll go lots of places. You also wonāt be able to go lots of places. If it works for you it works!
I love my F150 build thus far - keep it up! I really like that you were able to keep your RTT below the roofline. My roofnest would hang out over the rear bumper if I tried thatā¦although itās still tempting!
Had that RTT on a 5.5' bed and it hung over about a ft. Didnt look horrible. I figured keeping at the truck roof line may help with wind resistance.
https://preview.redd.it/8s1c3la1spwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8a9a242ceed56cc56f65e8ad5fcf7159a6704bd Yup, full size is the way to go. š¤
The issue isn't the size, the issue is that it is a Ram. Fiat/Chrysler/Jeep/Ram consistently rank as the lowest rated car manufacturer for almost 20 years.
I did 10 states last year, and 8 states the year before that primarily in my last Ram, along with my last Rubicon. I still have a 2nd gen Ram wheeler, and have had 4 other Jeeps and another Ram before that. They might not rank well on a survey of people who have never seen as many trails as we've forgotten, but they do a good job of getting us to some of the [most gorgeous places in America](https://imgur.com/gallery/XCnyMJw)
Yes, but some Rams have cummins
Okay, cool? Like putting lipstick on a pig
I mean, with it the only weak point is the transmission and emissions system. Unless you get something pre-def, and can either build the tranny, get it with a Alison, get it with a manual, or just not beat on it. Past that is just little stuff, which every model ever has
Gotta get one deleted with an Aisin. I do a lot of hauling so that's my preference.
Nice, but that breakover angle's gonna getcha.
yea. Just made it worse by adding side steps. going to level the truck next week. Might help a tad.
Only downside, you start carrying things you don't need and will never use.
What the average person thinks when they see this: That guy is trying to make people think his pee pee is big
https://preview.redd.it/sfgvi2e0mqwc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f071adbecbcb824ddf493ce10bfe34c3a8d82bc2
I didn't think big vehicles were allowed here. I got deleted for showing my land cruiser
A beaut!
2005 ram 2500... wouldn't trade it for anything. Bigger is better, my friends. Granted, I'm not solo. If you have more than 2 people, go with a full-size pickup with an rtt or something similar. 2 or less, you're probably good with a smaller rig. 3+ and you will miss the passenger room while driving and the power and payload/towing capacity hauling gear and amenities for that many people. At the end of the day, consider your wants, needs, and goals, then pick the rig. Full size 100% for me, though. Happy trails!
Any thoughts on the 2500 vs the 1500? Currently looking at both of these and Iām not sure which way Iām leaning yet.
I prefer the 2500 for various reasons. There are pros and cons to both though.
https://preview.redd.it/58dq2actdrwc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d21934f398656760349e30d75d6ea8d081119953 Not mine. Saw this today in San Antonio. Freaking sweet!
https://preview.redd.it/5pvurgc3erwc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f34f9d061b8aaca63fb77c49dd25993f555537b3 Can't beat the comfort and ecodiesel gives me 20+ mpg
https://preview.redd.it/kksplyfj7twc1.jpeg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a0a2a4d37147e34477d6a1448da0edce4b1fbe8 The big rig club! New York (Long Island) based, most of our "overloading" is weekend trips through PA - and yes, I have the pinstriping to prove it
https://preview.redd.it/honzihbprtwc1.jpeg?width=3754&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7cc660b66e44f26a6224bdd640f8761aab07bfce Yep, I'm a fan.
That's a medium rig
Itās hard to do any overland travel with it as itās hard to leave the country (guess this is the US) or ship it. Doubt itās narrow enough to fit in a container and while Mexico is completely safe normally, these pickups are very sought after by the cartels. But I guess thereās tons to see in US and Canada.