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Transform Your Tacoma into the Ultimate Car Camping Vehicle
Outfit your Toyota Tacoma Off Road 4x4 with the best car camping gear, including a Front Runner Roof Top Tent and Dometic CFX3 Cooler, for any adventure.
The Toyota Tacoma Off Road 4x4 is already a formidable vehicle, but it becomes an unstoppable force of adventure with the right setup. From rugged trails to remote campsites, every piece of gear you choose can enhance your experience, making your journey as safe, sultry, and enjoyable as possible. In this guide, I'll dive into what I have dialed in to be the ultimate car camp setup for my Tacoma, exploring the features and benefits of each component. Whether you’re setting out for a weekend of car camping or an extended expedition, this setup has you covered.
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Front Runner Roof Top Tent and Slimline II Bed Rack
The heart of my car camping setup is the Front Runner Roof Top Tent, mounted on the Slimline II Bed Rack. This tent is not only easy to install with the Quick Release Tent Mount Kit, but it also offers a secure, elevated sleeping area that keeps you safe from the ground. The Slimline II Bed Rack provides a sturdy base for the tent and houses additional accessories, making it a versatile platform for all your car camping needs.
Front Runner Roof Top Tent mounted on the Slimline II Bed Rack. EZ Awning deployed.
Why they are Essential:
Quick Setup: The tent deploys and sets up within 5 minutes. The Quick Release Tent Mount Kit allows you to take the tent on and off at home in minutes if you want to switch out your bed rack configuration. The tent isn’t too heavy, so if I am just headed out for a MTB day trip, I will swap out the tent for a set of Pro Fork Mount Bike Carrier / Power Edition on the Bed Rack.
Comfort: Sitting on top of the bed rack, the elevated sleeping with plenty of ventilation ensures a good night's sleep.
Versatility: The Slimline II Bed Rack supports a variety of additional accessories, making it a central component of your setup.
Setup with with a set of FRO bike mounts
Yakima 4G Roadshower
Mounted on the opposite side of the bed rack from where the tent opens, the Yakima 4G Roadshower provides a convenient solution for staying clean and refreshed on the road. With a 4-gallon capacity, it offers enough water for quick rinses, dishwashing, or even a warm shower after a long day of adventuring.
Yakima 4G Roadshower is attached to the Front Runner Slimline II Bed Rack.
Why It's Essential:
Convenience: Provides on-demand water for a variety of uses, from cleaning to showering. After a sweaty MTB ride or slogging through poison ivy along the creek, having the ability to wash your gear and body is crucial.
Capacity: The 4-gallon tank holds enough water for a couple uses before needing a refill if you dial the pressure down enough. I attach a separate shower wand that gives me more control of water flow, allows me to move around the truck and refill it.
Durability: Built to withstand the elements and the rough conditions of off-road travel. Built like a tank, well, because it is one.
Pro Stainless Steel Camp Table
The Front Runner Pro Stainless Steel Camp Table, mounted underneath the Slimline II Bed Rack, is a game-changer for your camp kitchen setup. Easily accessible and stowed away when not in use, this table offers a durable surface for meal prep, cooking, or even as a workstation.
Pulling out the Pro Stainless Steel Table from underneath the Slimline II Bed Rack.
Why It's Essential:
Space-Saving: The table is neatly stored under the bed rack, maximizing your available space—brilliant design by Front Runner!
Durability: Stainless steel construction ensures it can handle all your camp cooking needs.
Ease of Use: The table slides out easily and locks into place, providing a stable and reliable work surface. My only complaint about this table is that I wish they had installed adjustable legs or feet since this is mostly designed to be used on uneven ground .
Camp setup on a MTB trip om Sedona
Slimsport Roof Rack Kit with 40" LED Slim Light Bar
The Slimsport Roof Rack Kit, mounted on the cab, is lightbar-ready and paired with the 40" LED Slim Light Bar VX1000-CB. This setup ensures you have excellent visibility on night drives, enhancing safety and confidence on the trail. The rack also accommodates additional gear storage with items like the Wolf Pack Pros and the Typhoon Bag securely fastened with Stratchits and Black Tie Down Rings.
Slimsport Roof Rack Kit with 40" LED Slim Light Bar
Why It's Essential:
Improved Visibility: The LED Light Bar provides bright, clear light for nighttime driving and campsite setup. Trust me, it’s bright AF!
Low Profile: The Slimsport Roof Rack Kit offers a sleek design that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. I went with this model over the more popular Slimline II because I liked the lower profile look. I admit that it is a little more limited when it comes to accessories, but nothing that I haven’t truly missed out on.
Versatility: The roof rack can hold additional gear, expanding your storage capacity. I am always reconfiguring this to cater to what gear I am bringing - always comes through.
Front Runner Easy-Out Awning / 1.4M
Attached to the driver's side of the truck with the Quick Release Awning Mount Kit, the Front Runner Easy-Out Awning provides instant shelter from sun and rain. This is perfect for creating a shaded area to relax, cook, or simply enjoy the view after a long drive.
Front Runner Easy-Out Awning
Why It's Essential:
Instant Shelter: The awning deploys quickly, offering protection from the elements. Sometimes it’s the only repreave fro the blazing AZ sun.
Durability: Built to handle the wear and tear of car camping, ensuring long-lasting use.
Convenience: The Quick Release Awning Mount Kit allows you to quickly and easily remove and store the awning if you don’t want it on your rig.
Wolf Pack Pros and Typhoon Bag
For gear storage, the combination of Wolf Pack Pros and the Typhoon Bag offers a reliable and organized solution. Secured on top of the Slimsport Roof Rack with Stratchits and Black Tie Down Rings, your gear stays safe and dry, no matter the weather or terrain.
Typhoon Bag, 2 Wolf Pack Pros, a shovel and a 2 Gallon Rotopax mounted to the Slimline II Cab Rack.
Why It's Essential:
Organization: Keeps your gear organized and easily accessible. Front Runner did a great job in designing the shape of the Wolf Pack Pros to maximize storage capacity and have it work with their own mounts, straitchits or regular straps. I’m always impressed with how much gear I can cram into the Typhoon bag.
Durability: Both the Wolf Pack Pros and Typhoon Bag are built to withstand harsh conditions. The typhoon bag is hands down my favorite and most reliable bag that I use when the weather conditions are in question.
Security: Stratchits and Black Tie Down Rings ensure everything stays securely in place, even on rough trails.
Pro Water Tank with Tap / 20L
In the bed of your Tacoma, the Front Runner Pro Water Tank with Tap ensures you have ample water for hydration, cooking, and cleaning. With a 20L capacity, it provides enough water for several days off-grid, and the easy-to-use tap makes accessing the water simple.
Filling up with the Front Runner 20L Water Tank
Why It's Essential:
Capacity: 20L is sufficient for multiple days of hydration and cleaning needs.
Convenience: The tap makes it easy to access water whenever you need it. I usually have this thrown in the bed of my truck instead of mounted since I move to around to where I need the water.
Durability: Designed for overlanding, the tank is built to last through tough conditions.
Rubbermaid Action Packer Storage Bins
In the bed of your truck, two 24-Gallon Rubbermaid Action Packer Storage Bins provide rugged and reliable storage for your gear. One bin houses your sleeping kit, while the other is dedicated to your fly fishing gear, ensuring everything is organized and protected.
Gregory Alpaca Gear Box and Rubbermaid 24 Gallon storage bin side by side.
Why It's Essential:
Organization: Keeps your sleeping and fly fishing gear separate and easily accessible.
Durability: Built to withstand the elements and protect your gear from dust, dirt, and moisture.
Capacity: 24 gallons of storage per bin offers plenty of space for all your essentials.
Gregory Alpaca 45 Liter Gear Boxes
For your kitchen set and camping gear, the Gregory Alpaca 45 Liter Gear Boxes provide durable and spacious storage. These gear boxes are stored in the bed of the truck, keeping your kitchen essentials and camping equipment organized and ready for use. Read more about all of the features that make these storage boxes my favorite on the market.
Set of Gregory Alpaca 45 Liter Gear Boxes sitting on the bed of the truck
Why It's Essential:
Spacious Storage: 45 liters per box offers ample space for your gear. I use 2 - one for all of my kitchen gear and the other for camp goods such as a tent, hammock, camp chairs, electronics kit and more.
Organization: Keeps your kitchen set and camping gear neatly organized and easily accessible. Clearview Lid, Dual-Hinged accessibility and locking slots are super sick features making this box so useful.
Durability: Built tough to withstand the rigors of overlapping and an car camping adventure you throw at it.
Dometic CFX3 45 Cooler/Freezer and Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus Kit
Inside the cab, your food stays fresh in the Dometic CFX3 45 Cooler/Freezer, powered by the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus kit. This combination ensures that you have a reliable source of power and refrigeration, no matter how remote your adventure takes you.
Birds eye view of the Dometic CFX3 45 filled with food for a campout
Setup in the outskirts of Sedona
Why It's Essential:
Reliable Cooling: The Dometic CFX3 45 keeps food and drinks cold with minimal power consumption.
Off-Grid Power: The Jackery Solar Generator provides reliable power for the cooler and other devices, ensuring you stay powered up. I have been so impressed with the battery life in general, and whenever I need more, the 2 solar panels always come through!
Durability: Both the cooler and generator are built to handle the demands of overlanding.
Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel and Peak Design 45L Travel Pack
When it comes to personal storage, the Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel keeps your clothes organized and protected. This rugged duffel is designed to handle the wear and tear of car camping while offering plenty of space for all your essentials. Meanwhile, the Peak Design 45L Travel Pack is perfect for your camera gear. Its versatile design allows for quick access to your equipment, ensuring you’re always ready to capture those epic moments on the trail. I have taken this bag all over the world on assignments and it has never let me down.
Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel on top of the wolf Pack Pro in the backseat of a Toyota Tacoma
Why It's Essential:
Spaciousness: The Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel offers ample room for clothing, with additional compartments for small items. The materials have some structure to them so it doesn’t fold in on itself like other duffels.
Protection: The Peak Design 45L Travel Pack is padded to protect your valuable camera gear from bumps and drops. I feel 100% secure putting my valuable gear in here, and with 45L, there is plenty of room.
Versatility: Both bags are designed for easy transport and quick access, making them ideal for car camping adventures.
Conclusion
Your 2019 Toyota Tacoma Off Road 4x4 is now outfitted with the ultimate car camping setup, combining durability, functionality, and convenience. Each piece of gear—from the Front Runner Roof Top Tent to the Dometic CFX3 Cooler—has been carefully selected to enhance your outdoor experience, ensuring that no matter where the road takes you, you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
With this setup, you’re not just driving a truck; you’re piloting a mobile basecamp, capable of conquering the wildest terrains and enjoying the most remote campsites. Happy Adventures!
Honest 2 Year Review of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Discover the Front Runner Roof Top Tent's standout features, pros, and cons for your ultimate overlanding adventures.
When it comes to overlanding, the gear you choose can make or break your adventure. Imagine rolling into a remote, pristine location, far from the hustle of city life. You need a reliable shelter that sets up quickly, keeps you comfortable, and withstands whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Enter the Front Runner Roof Top Tent—a tent designed for those who seek adventure off the beaten path without sacrificing the comforts of a good night's sleep.
I have owned this tent for 2 years, and have slept in it probably close to 50 times. You can skip this whole review b/c the jist of it is this: I frickin love it!! It’s easy to set up and break down, comfortable and reliable. It is one of the lightest tents on the market which “helps” the gas mileage. I drive a lifted Tacoma - I’m usually dropping some tears at the gas station on my adventures regardless.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features that set the Front Runner Roof Top Tent apart, delve into the pros and cons, and help you decide whether this is the ideal tent for your next journey into the wild.
Remember that I receive a tiny commission whenever you buy something after clicking one of our links, even if you decide to buy something else. This is a major factor in keeping our content free and funding our my team, and I appreciate your help!
What is a Roof Top Tent (RTT)?
A roof top tent (RTT) is a type of camping tent that mounts directly to the roof of a vehicle, typically on a roof rack. It's designed to provide an elevated sleeping area, which offers several advantages over traditional ground tents. There’s definitely some considerations to take in before making the leap from the ground to the roof. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes a roof top tent unique:
Key Features of a Roof Top Tent:
Elevation: Being off the ground, an RTT keeps you away from uneven or rocky terrain, mud, and critters. It also provides better ventilation and can be safer in areas where wildlife might be a concern.
Quick Setup: Many RTTs are designed to be set up in just a few minutes. Some models are hard-shell, which simply pop open, while others are soft-shell, which unfold with the help of a ladder and some light adjustments.
Comfort: Roof top tents often come with built-in foam mattresses, offering more comfort than the average sleeping pad in a ground tent. They can also have more headroom and space to move around.
Durability: These tents are usually made with more durable materials than regular camping tents, designed to withstand the elements while traveling at highway speeds.
Versatility: RTTs can be installed on a variety of vehicles, from SUVs and trucks to some cars with the right roof rack system. They’re great for overlanding, road trips, or just weekend camping.
Pros of Roof Top Tents:
Convenience: Easy to set up and pack down, making them ideal for quick stops.
Comfort: Built-in mattresses and better ventilation.
Safety: An elevated sleeping platform keeps you safe from ground-based dangers.
Cons of Roof Top Tents:
Cost: Generally more expensive than traditional ground tents.
Weight: Can be heavy, which affects fuel efficiency and vehicle handling.
Accessibility: Requires climbing up and down a ladder,and once you have setup camp, your vehicle must stay there.
Key Features of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Durability and Build Quality
The Front Runner Roof Top Tent stands out with its robust construction, made to endure the toughest overlanding conditions. Crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, the tent's design ensures that it can handle everything from heavy rain to scorching sun. The heavy-duty aluminum frame adds an extra layer of strength, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
Ease of Setup
One of the biggest advantages of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is its user-friendly setup. After a long day of driving or hiking, the last thing you want is a complicated tent assembly. With its quick fold-out design, this tent can be set up in just a few minutes by a single person. The integrated ladder and smart design make the process even more seamless.
Comfort and Space
Despite its compact size when packed, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent offers generous sleeping space for two adults. Inside, you’ll find a high-density foam mattress that provides much-needed comfort after a day of exploration. The tent's interior height is sufficient for easy movement, making it feel less cramped than some other roof top tents. The mattress covers 85% of the floor, leaving room for shoes, bags, etc.
Weather Resistance
Weather can be unpredictable, but the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is designed to handle it all. Its waterproof fabric and sealed seams keep you dry during rainstorms, while the extended rainfly offers extra protection. In windy conditions, the sturdy frame ensures stability, so you can rest easy no matter the forecast. Yes, it will be loud, but it will stand strong. I have never had any issues with rain.
FRONT RUNNER ROOF TOP TENT
A 1.3M wide roof top tent that is 2.4M long when set up. The super-low 330mm profile reduces wind resistance while on the road and lowers the vehicle’s total height. The Front Runner Roof Top Tent is the lowest profile roof top tent on the market!
Ventilation and Windows
Good ventilation is key to a comfortable night in any tent. The Front Runner Roof Top Tent includes multiple windows and vents that can be adjusted to control airflow, helping to reduce condensation and keep the interior fresh. These openings also offer panoramic views, so you can enjoy your surroundings without leaving the comfort of your tent.
Portability and Storage
When not in use, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent folds down into a compact, low-profile package. This streamlined design minimizes wind resistance and doesn't overly affect your vehicle’s aerodynamics. The included PVC cover ensures that the tent remains protected from the elements when packed away, ready for the next adventure.
Pros of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Durable Construction - Built to last, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is constructed from high-quality materials that withstand the harshest environments. Whether you're navigating rocky terrain or enduring a downpour, this tent will remain steadfast.
Quick Setup and Breakdown - Time is of the essence when setting up camp, and this tent excels in efficiency. Its easy-to-use design allows you to set up and break down in minutes, giving you more time to enjoy your surroundings.
Comfortable Sleeping Experience - The tent’s high-density foam mattress provides a level of comfort that rivals your bed at home. Combined with the ample interior space, it ensures a restful night's sleep after a day of exploration.
Excellent Ventilation - With multiple adjustable vents and windows, the tent maintains a fresh and comfortable environment, reducing the likelihood of waking up to a stuffy interior.
Low-Profile Design - The tent's low-profile design minimizes its impact on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and makes it less prone to wind resistance, an important feature for long drives on the open road.
Versatility - The **Front Runner Roof Top Tent** is versatile enough for a variety of environments, from sandy deserts to dense forests, making it a reliable choice for any overlanding adventure.
Cons of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Price - The Front Runner Roof Top Tent comes with a premium price tag, which may be a hurdle for budget-conscious adventurers. However, for those who prioritize quality and durability, the investment is often seen as worthwhile.
Weight - At approximately 95 pounds, the tent is not the lightest option on the market (but one of). This weight can make installation challenging and will impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
Limited Sleeping Capacity - While perfect for two adults, the tent's size may be limiting for families or larger groups. If you frequently camp with more than two people, additional sleeping arrangements will be necessary.
Access Challenges - The height of a roof top tent can be a drawback for some, particularly when it comes to getting in and out. The ladder can be tricky to navigate, especially in wet or dark conditions, posing a challenge for those less comfortable with heights. Also, you’re completely exposed when it rains. Again, and this is important, once you have set up camp, you can’t move your vehicle without breaking the tent back down.
Conclusion
The Front Runner Roof Top Tent is a top-tier choice for overlanding enthusiasts who value durability, comfort, and convenience. Its robust construction, quick setup, and all-weather capabilities make it a reliable companion for any adventure. While the price and weight might be considerations, the tent's overall performance and features often justify these factors for serious outdoor explorers.
If you're looking to enhance your overlanding experience, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is an investment that promises to deliver, allowing you to camp comfortably in even the most remote locations.
BREAKDOWN OF MY SETUP
I have a 2019 Toyota Tacoma Off Road 4x4 Pickup with a short bed. I have FRO Roof Top Tent mounted on the FRO Slimline II Bed Rack with the Quick Release Tent Mount Kit. On the bottom sid of the rack, I have the FRO Pro Stainless Steel Camp Table installed. On the cab, I have the Slimsport Roof Rack Kit (Lightbar ready) with the 40" LED Slim Light Bar VX1000-CB SM / 12V/24V / Single Mount. I also have the Easy-Out Awning / 1.4M attached with the Quick Release Awning Mount Kit. For storage I have a set of Wolf Pack Pros and a Typhoon Bag that are tied down using Stratchits and Black Tie Down Rings. For hydration, I use the Pro Water Tank With Tap / 20L. I keep my food crispy cold in the Dometic CFX3 45 Cooler/Freezer and carry extra fuel with a 2G Rotopax attached with the Rotopax Rack Mounting Plate.
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Toyota Tacoma Build: Black Rhino Warlord Wheels Are Awesome
Toyota Tacoma Build Update - The new Black Rhino Warlord truck rims live up to that aggressive name in more ways than one. Here's Why!
Black Rhino Warlords
I went with Black Rhino Warlord Wheels as my first big mod I did to the taco: replacing it's shoes (and legs, or ankles, or whatever you want to make a metaphor with).
Everything was based around these wheels: The Black Rhino Warlord Wheels. I wanted wheels that were different from most trucks I have seen. Something that stood out, looked badass AF, and possibly look even more rad when dirty. As bonus points, the color sheen actually matches the Quicksand from certain angles.
I also was in a big debate about whether to go all black. It's classic. It's gnar gnar, but everyone else is already doing it. I admit I was nervous because I had never seen these wheels in person - only online, but I hopped on the phone with www.wheelpros.com and drilled them about it! They were super helpful and I highly recommend going through them for your wheels!
The Wheels
For sizing, I went with the WARLORD 17X9 6X5.5 with -12MM offset in the MATTE BLACK WITH MACHINED DARK TINT LIP. this would step up my original wheel size from 16" to 17" giving me just a bit more clearance.
The Rubber
BF Goodrich 285/70R17 Tire, All-Terrain T/A KO2. I kept is as standard as possible. If it ain't broke don't fix it. These tires are tried and true, look aggressive and have a pretty good tread life.
The Lift
Bilstein B8 6112 Suspension Leveling Kit in the front and a set of Bilstein 5100 Series Shock Absorbers in the back on top of spacers. Just enough to level the Taco out and give me some more clearance. I will most likely be adding some leafs to the back because it sags under any type of weight, and I want to make sure the truck stays level when driving. This will also help to avoid that front-end duck down when braking hard.
Black Rhino Wheels supports www.stoprhinopoaching.com - very cool
Important Side Note about Black Rhino Wheels
Black Rhino Wheels was borne of a South African heritage, and is named after the tough and mighty Black Rhino, an icon of the African bush. Black Rhino Wheels is passionate about supporting conservation efforts that will help to protect the Rhino from extinction. They have donated over $60,000 to rhino conservation so far and formed a new partnership with StopRhinoPoaching.com and we donate a portion of our sales to them every quarter. You can find out more about their important and effective work here.
From the BR Site:
The new Black Rhino Warlord truck rims live up to that aggressive name in more ways than one. Start with the eight brawny spokes, bifurcated as they reach the thick, detailed lip. It’s a beefy, take-no-prisoners design, entirely in keeping with the spirit of stock and lifted trucks prepped for off highway gambols.
Black Rhino Warlords may look better the dirtier they get
Warload off-road wheels are aggressively sized, too, from 17x8, 17x9, 18x8, 18x9, and 20x9, all with oversized lips to provide a sturdy bead seat for the big fat tires offroaders prefer. Warlord truck wheels are available in 5, 6 and 8-lug bolt patterns, including5x110, 5x114, 6x120, 5x120 for the VW Amarok and the newer 6x130 pattern for Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon and 8x180 for bigger GMC trucks. Offsets range from -23mm to +12mm, and there are versions available for Sprinter vans and CUVs.
Black Rhino Wheels mixing them blacks and browns
Black Rhino Wheels on the CA Sand Dunes
Warlord wheels are available in a striking matte gunmetal finish and in matte black with a machined dark-tint lip. Like all Black Rhino wheels, Warlord off-road rims are engineered for strength, durability and long-lasting good looks.
OUTDOOR
ADVENTURE
Featured Posts
HIKING
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FLY FISHING
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CAMPING
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BACKPACKING
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GEAR REVIEWS
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HIKING | FLY FISHING | CAMPING | BACKPACKING | GEAR REVIEWS |
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