A.R.E. Camper Shell for Toyota Tacoma: The Ultimate Camping Companion

A.R.E. camper shells are a popular addition to Toyota Tacomas, providing owners with a versatile and secure way to transport cargo.

These fiberglass shells are custom-fit to the Tacoma’s bed, providing a sleek and aerodynamic storage solution that can be easily removed when not needed.

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about A.R.E. camper shells for Toyota Tacomas to help you make an informed decision.

Can You Put a Camper Shell on a Tacoma?

Yes, you can put a camper shell on a Toyota Tacoma. In fact, camper shells are a popular accessory for Tacoma owners who want to turn their truck into a comfortable camping or travel vehicle. Camper shells come in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials, and can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences.

When choosing a camper shell for your Tacoma, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll need to decide on the size and style of the shell. Camper shells come in different heights, lengths, and shapes, so you’ll want to choose one that fits your Tacoma’s bed and your personal preferences. Some popular styles include cab-high shells, mid-rise shells, and high-rise shells.

Next, you’ll want to think about the material of the camper shell. Fiberglass is a popular choice because it is lightweight, durable, and can be painted to match your Tacoma’s color. Aluminum shells are also available, and are known for their strength and corrosion resistance. Other materials, such as canvas or vinyl, are less common but may be suitable for certain applications.

Once you’ve chosen a camper shell, you’ll need to have it installed on your Tacoma. Most camper shells are designed to fit specific truck models, so be sure to choose one that is compatible with your Tacoma. Installation can typically be done by a professional or by the owner, depending on the complexity of the installation and the tools required.

Overall, a camper shell can be a great addition to your Toyota Tacoma, providing extra storage space, protection from the elements, and a comfortable sleeping area for camping or road trips. With the right shell and installation, you can transform your Tacoma into a versatile and functional vehicle for all your outdoor adventures.

Different Models and Their Features

A.R.E. offers a variety of camper shell models for Toyota Tacoma. Each model has its own unique set of features that cater to different needs and preferences. Below are the different models and their features.

Base Model

The base model is the most affordable option and comes with a variety of standard features. It is made of fiberglass and has two side doors with windows and a formed rear door. The base model also comes with a removable front sliding window, which allows for easy cleaning and ventilation. A.R.E. offers a limited lifetime warranty on the base model.

Z2

The Z2 model is designed with a sleek and aerodynamic profile. It has a high-rise design that provides extra headroom and storage space. The Z2 model also comes with insulated roof and fiberglass base rails. It has two side doors with windows and a formed rear door. The front window is also removable for cleaning and ventilation. A.R.E. offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Z2 model.

CX HD

The CX HD model is designed for heavy-duty use. It has a reinforced roof and tailgate, making it ideal for off-road adventures. The CX HD model also comes with pet screens, which provide added protection for pets while still allowing for ventilation.

It has two side doors with windows and a formed rear door. The front window is also removable for cleaning and ventilation. A.R.E. offers a limited lifetime warranty on the CX HD model.

Overland Model

The Overland model is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need extra storage space and features. It comes with the Ascend roof basket, which provides additional storage options for gear and equipment.

The Overland model also comes with a variety of upgrades, such as a formed rear door with a screen and an insulated roof. It has two side doors with windows and a removable front sliding window. A.R.E. offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Overland model.

In conclusion, A.R.E. offers a range of camper shell models for Toyota Tacoma, each with its own unique set of features. Whether you need extra storage space, heavy-duty use, or added protection for pets, there is a model that will fit your needs. A.R.E. also provides a limited lifetime warranty on all their models, ensuring that you can enjoy your camper shell for years to come.

Pros and Cons

A.R.E. camper shells are a popular choice for Toyota Tacoma owners looking to add more storage space to their truck. While there are many benefits to owning a camper shell, there are also some drawbacks to consider. This section will explore the pros and cons of owning an A.R.E. camper shell for a Toyota Tacoma.

Pros

• Increased Storage Space: A.R.E. camper shells provide a significant amount of extra storage space for your Toyota Tacoma. This is especially useful for those who need to transport large or bulky items such as camping gear, tools, or furniture.
• Weather Protection: A.R.E. camper shells offer protection from the elements, keeping your cargo dry and safe from rain, snow, and wind. This is especially important for those who frequently transport fragile or expensive items.
• Improved Security: A.R.E. camper shells come with locking mechanisms that provide added security for your cargo. This can be especially useful for those who frequently park their truck in public areas or leave their truck unattended for extended periods of time.
• Improved Gas Mileage: A.R.E. camper shells can improve your truck’s aerodynamics, which can lead to improved gas mileage. This can be especially beneficial for those who frequently drive long distances or use their truck for work.

Cons

• Cost: A.R.E. camper shells can be expensive, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the model and features. This can be a significant investment for some Toyota Tacoma owners.
• Reduced Bed Access: A.R.E. camper shells can make it more difficult to access the bed of your truck, especially if you need to load or unload cargo quickly. This can be especially frustrating for those who frequently transport items that require frequent loading and unloading.
• Added Weight: A.R.E. camper shells can add significant weight to your truck, which can impact your truck’s performance and fuel efficiency. This can be especially noticeable when driving uphill or towing heavy loads.
• Limited Headroom: A.R.E. camper shells can limit headroom inside the truck bed, which can make it difficult to transport tall items. This can be especially frustrating for those who frequently transport large or bulky items.

Overall, A.R.E. camper shells are a great option for Toyota Tacoma owners who need extra storage space and protection for their cargo. While there are some drawbacks to consider, the benefits of owning a camper shell generally outweigh the cons.

Installation Process

Installing an A.R.E. camper shell on a Toyota Tacoma is a straightforward process that can be completed with the right tools and equipment. The installation process typically involves the following steps:

1. Clean the Camper Shell – Before installation, the camper shell needs to be cleaned thoroughly. This starts with a full wash of the shell and then cleaning the inside of the windows if they are dirty. Along with this, the rear window of the truck also needs to be cleaned because it will be covered by the camper shell.
2. Measure the Truck Bed – Before placing the camper shell on the truck bed, it needs to be measured to ensure a proper fit. This involves measuring the width and length of the truck bed, as well as the height of the cab.
3. Place the Camper Shell on the Truck Bed – Once the camper shell has been cleaned and the truck bed has been measured, the camper shell can be placed on the truck bed. It is important to ensure that the camper shell is centered on the truck bed and that it is level.
4. Secure the Camper Shell – After the camper shell has been placed on the truck bed, it needs to be secured to the truck bed. This is typically done using clamps that attach to the bed rails or the utility track system. It is important to ensure that the clamps are tightened securely to prevent the camper shell from moving during transport.
5. Install the Rear Window – Once the camper shell is secured to the truck bed, the rear window can be installed. This involves attaching the window to the camper shell and then sealing it with weather-stripping to prevent leaks.
6. Install Additional Equipment – If the camper shell has additional equipment such as a roof rack or interior lighting, this can be installed after the camper shell has been secured to the truck bed.

Overall, the installation process for an A.R.E. camper shell on a Toyota Tacoma is a simple process that can be completed by most DIY enthusiasts. With the right tools and equipment, it can be completed in a few hours and will provide a durable and secure storage solution for your truck.

Customization and Upgrade Options

A.R.E. camper shells for Toyota Tacoma are a popular choice for those who want to add extra storage space to their truck bed. However, these camper shells can be customized and upgraded to meet specific needs and preferences. Here are some customization and upgrade options to consider:

Accessories

A.R.E. offers a range of accessories that can be added to their camper shells to enhance functionality and convenience. Some popular accessories include:

• Fishing rod holders: These holders can be mounted on the roof of the camper shell to secure fishing rods during transportation.
• Shelves: Shelves can be added to the interior of the camper shell to provide additional storage space and organization.
• Lighting: A.R.E. offers various lighting options, including LED lights, to illuminate the interior of the camper shell.
• Power options: Electrical outlets and USB ports can be installed to power devices and appliances inside the camper shell.

Customization

A.R.E. camper shells can be customized to match the specific needs and preferences of the owner. Some popular customization options include:

• Paint color: A.R.E. offers a variety of paint colors to match the color of the truck or to create a unique look.
• Roof racks: Roof racks can be added to the top of the camper shell to provide additional storage space for items such as kayaks, bikes, or a rooftop tent.
• Windows: Additional windows can be installed to increase ventilation and natural light inside the camper shell.
• Rear door options: A.R.E. offers different rear door options, including side access doors and double doors, to make accessing the contents of the camper shell easier.

Aftermarket Parts

In addition to A.R.E.’s own accessories and customization options, there are also many aftermarket parts available to further enhance the functionality and appearance of the camper shell. Some popular aftermarket parts include:

• Ladder racks: Ladder racks can be installed on the roof of the camper shell to provide a secure way to transport ladders and other long items.
• Roof top tents: A roof top tent can be mounted on the roof of the camper shell to create a comfortable sleeping area for camping trips.
• Bed slides: A bed slide can be installed in the truck bed to make it easier to access items stored in the camper shell.
• Security systems: Various security systems, such as alarms and locks, can be installed to protect the contents of the camper shell.

By taking advantage of these customization and upgrade options, owners of A.R.E. camper shells for Toyota Tacoma can create a personalized and functional storage solution for their truck.

Security and Storage

The A.R.E. camper shell for Toyota Tacoma is an excellent option for those looking for secure storage. The shell is made of metal and is incredibly durable, making it difficult for anyone to break into. The shell is also equipped with clamps that keep it securely attached to the truck bed, so there is no need to worry about it coming loose while driving.

The A.R.E. camper shell is also great for storing items that need to be kept secure. The shell is equipped with a lock, which ensures that only those with the key can access the contents of the shell. This is especially important for those who use their truck for work and need to keep tools and equipment safe.

In addition to being secure, the A.R.E. camper shell also provides ample storage space. The shell can be customized with racks and other storage solutions to fit the needs of the owner. This makes it a great option for those who need to transport large items or just need extra space for everyday use.

Overall, the A.R.E. camper shell for Toyota Tacoma is a great option for those looking for secure storage and ample space. The metal construction and clamps ensure that the shell is secure while the lock keeps the contents safe. The customizable storage solutions make it a versatile option for any owner.

To Summarize

In summary, A.R.E. camper shells are a great addition to any Toyota Tacoma truck. They offer ample storage space, protection from the elements, and a sleek look that complements the truck’s design.

When looking for a camper shell, it’s important to consider the Tacoma’s bed size and the intended use of the shell. A.R.E. offers a range of camper shells to fit different needs and preferences.

For those looking for maximum storage space, the TW series is a great option. It offers the most capacity out of any kind of simple camper shell and creates the perfect space for storage and hauling with easy accessibility to get to all of your gear.

If aerodynamics are a priority, the CX series is a good choice. It features a contoured design that reduces wind drag and improves fuel efficiency. It also has a rear door that is equipped with a slam latch that can be locked with a key for added security.

For those who need a work truck, the DCU series is a great choice. It offers commercial-grade features such as reinforced roof construction, heavy-duty doors, and a customizable interior to fit your specific needs.

Overall, A.R.E. camper shells provide a versatile and practical solution for those who need extra storage space or protection for their cargo. They are well-designed, durable, and offer a range of options to fit different needs and preferences.