How To Set Up A Camper At A Campsite

Nosotros are campsite minimalists.  Unless we're camping with friends, we don't fifty-fifty setup our outside chairs.  Of course our RV neighbors often appear to be hosting an outdoor wedding with tents, tables, seating and outdoor kitchens from one end of their camp to the other.  Comparatively speaking, our military camp is buck naked.

Realizing that our beliefs is rarely typical, we asked Truck Camper Magazine readers about their own army camp rituals.  Funny enough, it turns out that we're not the only connoisseurs of spartan encampments.  That said, 1 reader admits to not only putting out pinkish flamingos, just naming them.  That'southward pretty wild, and just the outset.

This week's Question of the Week was, "How do y'all set up your campsite when truck camping?"

"Brimming!  We have a quad trailer with an awning for the outdoor kitchen.  We bring forth a burn down pit, chairs, tables and of class, Betty and Beatrice – the pinkish flamingos!" – Bob Smith, 2001 Ford F-250, 2015 Lance 1050S

"I am a minimalist.  I drive in and look around to meet if information technology's safe.  I endeavor to find a level place to park and leave without a trace." – Jesse Black, 2015 Chevy 3500, 2010 Lance 1055

"The picture in a higher place says information technology all.  I boondocked for seven months from September 2nd, 2022 to March 28th, 2022.  The picture above is on BLM land in Nevada." – Kenneth Dunn, 1998 Dodge 3500, 2010 Arctic Flim-flam 811S

"The start thing out is a clothes line, then the small speaker with an obnoxious small barking dog with the intent that it volition get other potential campers away from our spot.  That's it.  Realistically, we go along the military camp to a minimum.  We pull a cargo trailer for the toys and extra stuff.  The less we leave, the less we accept to put away before we move on." –Bob Nelson, 2015 GMC 3500, 2013 Chill Fox 1140

"We prepare exactly like yous and Angela (including the cats).  When we set up camp, we want to enjoy the outdoors by going kayaking or hiking.  There is no demand to bring it all when getting away from it all.  Heck, the camper itself is pretty luxurious compared to our backpacking gear and tent." – Lyle Tremblay, 2004 GMC 2500, 2006 Bigfoot 25C9.4

"The just items I ready are a Coleman folding table, a couple of military camp chairs, the hibachi, and the American flag." – Frank Kaye, 2005 Dodge 3500, 2008 Northstar Arrow

"Information technology varies for us.  Sometimes we're minimal, other times non.  Nosotros're generally in the truck camper for 7 straight months, so we try to keep it uncomplicated.  We do a lot of boondocking, so if nosotros put anything out and then it will exist i solar light to illuminate the lesser of the stairs.  Yet if we're at a campground for several days, yous'll discover our camp chairs and BBQ grill fix along with a domestic dog bed for Rugby, our camper imprint, a truck camper solar light as well as several other solar lights.  We used to comport a large screen house, but didn't use it and wisely sold it to another truck camper who got much use out of information technology this by winter in Florida." –Chuck and Jodie Ramsey, 2012 Chevy Silverado, 2014 Adventurer 116DS

"We're not equally spartan as you guys.  We normally get out our chairs, a griddle, and a grill.  But, that is about information technology." – Dan Robinson, 2017 Ram 2500, 2014 Palomino HS-8801

"We're pretty much minimalists due to weight restrictions with our former truck.  With our new truck we tin can acquit everything we had been carrying and still be ane,200 pounds nether payload.  Therefore, we're adding more stuff every fourth dimension we go out.

Nosotros fix up 2 military camp chairs plus a small-scale table, a rug to reduce dirt infiltration, a tablecloth on the picnic tabular array, and a hammock.  We will be adding a screen tent for the next time out." – Randy Smith, 2017 Ram 3500, 2017 Adventurer 910DB

"If we are going to exist at a place for more than than a day, nosotros will unload the camper and put the awning, mat, and gas fireplace out.  Nosotros also accept a tabular array for the stove (we never cook inside) and chairs." –Beak Richcreek, 2013 Ford F-350, 2017 Lance 855S

"But similar yous and Angela, we are bare basic with two folding lawn chairs.  Nosotros take an canopy (pocketbook awning) that gets deployed for sitting nether in the lawn chairs and cooking outside on a burn down in the evening.

We both like food prepared on an open burn because it tastes meliorate.  Being an Eagle Scout years ago, I similar cooking meals on a burn down or in the coals (we have a dutch oven).  About the merely luxury particular we have is out trusty Coleman gas lantern.  Everything does double duty if possible.

There are non a lot of storage options in a pop-upwardly, so we pack only what we need and nada extra.  Extra stuff equates to extra weight.  I similar running equally light as possible since we mostly camp disbursed off road.  In fact I don't believe we have ever camped in a commercial campground in 30 years.  We're not fond of neighbors." –Daryl Davis, 1997 Ford F350, 2014 Palomino SS-1500

"Pitiful to say, only we go all out with food tents, eating tents, a dishwashing station, wood for campfires, propane stoves, BBQ grills, and two picnic tables – one for kids projects.  We are spoiled rotten.  I forgot nosotros likewise have an oven smoker.  Yes, we fume fish while camping.  When we do, we take lots of people stopping by." –Bruce Erickson, 2006 Dodge Ram, 2016 Charlatan 8.6FB

"We are very similar to y'all folks, except for the cat.  Plough the ignition key to the left, unlock the camper door, lower the bumper step, and it'south cocktail hour." – Bob Lick, 2003 Contrivance 3500, 1993 Alpenlite eleven-human foot

"At that place commonly is a few of usa camping together.  We are almost always are camping in the bush in the centre of nowhere.

Nosotros try to fix upwardly in a wagon train.  Beingness in the bush-league ways we have room to fix our melt tent and lights so we tin see at dark.  We accept outdoor games nosotros play and always fix our chairs around a fire pit.

Sometimes nosotros embrace the fire pit with a parachute depending on the weather and time of year.  And, if its a new place we are trying, I have arrows to point the way down the bush roads to our army camp.  That way all our friends tin can find us if their GPS batteries go dead." –Ken Leona Atamaniuk, 2012 Ram 3500, 2016 Lance 855S

"I bear solar panels that I gear up up at the campsite and plug into a pre-wired controller in the camper.  After that, I become exploring!" –Dieter Karaluz, 2017 Toyota Tacoma, 2017 home built hard side pop-upwards

"We think less is more.  Nosotros have two chairs, a small round table, and a carpet to effort to limit the dirt getting into the camper.  We are prospectors so, when we are out on a prospecting trip, our campsite is more like a mining operation than a camp site!" – Warren Sidney, 2006 Chevy Silverado 2500, 2015 Arctic Fob 811

"We are normally minimalists like yous.  Once we put up the flag of our small-scale country of Catalonia (Kingdom of spain)." – Frederic Amorós, Toyota Hilux, PSI-Azalaï (French Fix Cell)

"We park without making a fuss, set the camper, pull two chairs, grab a book, needle works, and the binoculars.  If we are boondocking we get from truck cab to camper; no jacks, no blocks, no racket, and no shining light inside or out.  Nosotros are in stealth fashion most of the time." – Jake and Sylvie Mathis, 1994 Dodge Ram, 2005 Northern Low-cal 9 Q

"If we're in a spot for more than a mean solar day, and then the stairs go down, the oilcloth goes on the table, and the clothesline goes upwards – in that order.  Nosotros similar to travel and golf game and then nosotros don't usually spew ourselves also much around at the campsite.  It all has to go back in earlier we can have off for the golf course for the day.

Boondocking however is different.  It's our home, pelting or polish, and we make information technology and so since we similar to exist outside." –Cathryn Curtis, 2010 Chevy 2500, 2008 Bigfoot 25C9.4

"Nosotros get out an Eastward-Z Up awning over the picnic table, a Coleman cook stove and BBQ grill.  We simply cook outside.  We also get out the comfy army camp chairs.

We'll usually have angling bladder tubes laying around and a hummingbird feeder if we're in a place that allows them.  Just, we pretty much keep it tidy." – Greg Sellers, 2002 Ford F250, 1980s SunLite pop-up

"We practise pretty much as y'all and Gordon practise.  Nosotros park, hookup, unhook, and go.  We don't bother lowering the jacks.  That'due south probably because I am not that skillful at remounting the camper.  We carry the tarp, dual awnings, camping chairs, and are set for a propane grill.  I only haven't found the correct 1.  Likewise, we don't tend to stay in i spot very long." –Joe Sesto, 2015 Silverado 3500, 2015 Bigfoot 2500 25C10.6E

"A chair and a campfire is good enough.  Sometimes the chaise lounge comes out to sleep." –David and Lila Weinstein, 1999 Ram 3500, Arctic Fob 1150

"I likewise am a minimalist.  I remote camp whenever possible.  Even when I stay at an organized campground, a camp chair and maybe a recently purchased bundle of firewood is all that you volition find outside of my camper.  If I have a bivouac, I will accept h2o nearby to put it out if the wind picks upwardly or I go to bed.

Weather permitting, in that location is nothing better than a modest bivouac and some star gazing, which is why I boondock.  Strings of lights, torches, generators at night, and blast boxes next door are not a pleasant camping experience for me.

I estimate it might be the departure in where people live.  Urban and suburban people live where there are lights 24/vii and maybe the threat of intruders.  Lighting is a way of life and a security blanket.  Living at the edge of the wood I am used to a dark night sky and the just intruders I usually worry nigh are bears trying to get into the bird feeders or the garage.

To each his own.  RV parks and full hookups are popular and becoming the norm, but I seek out my minimalist camping locations." –Terry Gfeller, 2015 Ram 2500, 2013 Lance 865

"We are minimalists.  I also hate clutter.  And then, unless we spend more than than one night in a campsite, we pull in, plug in, lower the jacks to level and stabilize, pull out a footstool and lawn chairs, and we are prepare up.  For more than one night, I may plug in a rope light for ambiance.  Otherwise, I'd rather spend my time enjoying the outdoors than decorating it!" –Shelley Throughway, 2009 Ford F350, 2006 Lance Sportster 950

"Nosotros army camp very conservatively.  Nosotros dorsum into a site, check for being level, hook up to the electricity (if available), crank up the top, and we are home.

My married woman's folding chair is out whatsoever time she wishes to use information technology, and I usually sit at the picnic table, which we place near the fire pit.  I do a lot of hiking, so I may be away from the campsite much of the time, and she will sit outside and read while I am away.  Or she may sit down in the camper and read.  My wife and I practise some brusk hikes together, but she is not a long distance hiker.

We sometimes eat outside, merely mostly within is more than convenient.  The camper is our biggest investment, so we should use it.  Also, there are no insects.

We don't advertise where where nosotros are from, nor do we light upwards our campsite or play loud music.  Nosotros only savour nature and the friendship of the campground host.  There are some wonderful and defended people maintaining our campgrounds." –Ellis Tyson, 2006 GMC Sierra 2500 Hard disk drive, 2000 Sunlite Fold-downward

"It depends.  If it'southward just me for a dark or 2, I'll just roll out the camp chairs (carried inside camper) and be washed.  Mayhap I'll set up the generator since I'm still working on the solar thing.

If I'thou at a place more than two days, I'll break out the small kitchen, or maybe simply the BBQ.  For extended stays with a grouping, I'll intermission out the big kitchen; a Camp Chef ii-burner stove, prep tabular array, and side table lights.  I'm working on another canopy.

If there's a group happy hour, I'll break out my Carmen battery-powered margarita mixer.  Carmen ways a "Camping ground Anywhere Remote for a Margarita Ecology Nirvana".  It's xanthous, battery powered, and will become anywhere – Margaritaville.

And so information technology depends.  I'll be purging Carmen and the Camp Chef back to storage since I don't actually utilize them that much to keep conveying around.  Purging is a continuous procedure." – Frank Poole, 2016 Ram 5500, 2016 Arctic Fox 990

"We take our 2 chairs off the bed and put them exterior.  We do not accept a mat for exterior.  If the site has services and we will exist there more than 1 night, we hookup.  We own a picnic shelter, but have never used it.

If information technology'due south just overnight, sometimes we don't fifty-fifty deploy our scissors camper stairs.  Nosotros'll use a three step ladder instead." – Rick Brundrige, 2015 Chevy Silverado 3500HD, 2000 Bigfoot 25C9.half dozen

"Nosotros have a modest rug to keep the dirt inside to a minimum.  The flag goes upwards, rear step go down, and chairs, grill, and tablecloth are deployed.

The remainder depends on where we are and how long we are staying.  Kayaks come off if nosotros are near water.  The bikes come out if we are staying for more a day.  We inappreciably sit or cook within if the atmospheric condition allows.

We never unload the camper, so we commonly tin be mobile in nether ten minutes." – Harrie Ashley, 2012 Ford F350, 2005 Lance 1030

"We accept gone from minimalists to having everything.  Now we're back to minimalists.  Our life is so much more than rewarding without idiot box, computers, and stuff.  Sandra and I enjoy the quiet times so much; we tin can have devotions, and only talk.

It has even led to less television set and computers at home, only that is not for everyone.  We have also eliminated extra chairs, the awning and – unlike you – we never put the jacks downwardly.

On our last fishing trip to Colorado (which lasted ii months), I believe nosotros only had hookups 4 or 5 times.  Nosotros are very blessed to have an awesome truck and camper that let u.s. to go to many beautiful places which so many can not go.  KISS."– Ed Krech, 2006 Contrivance 3500, 2011 Northern Lite 8-eleven

"We are minimalists. We park, pop-upwardly the roof, plug-in the power if available, and military camp.  On nice days we have out our camp chairs and sit in the sun or shade, but we put the chairs back in the truck at nightfall.  We once woke to seeing a wall deject in the distance, dressed, and got the camper ready to roll in ten minutes before the storm hit in Nebraska." –Laurel Wilson, 2018 Ford F-350, 2016 Four Wheel Camper Shell

"When we fix upwardly camp, it's level the camper, open up the three slides, and nosotros're pretty much done.  Sometimes we'll put out a kick brush or modest rug if the weather is wet and the basis is muddied.  Generally, nosotros less is more when it comes to set up for camping.

Nosotros do take a couple of lawn chairs that nosotros put out, but that's information technology.  All in all, it makes for a cleaner campsite and less stuff to pack in the camper equally well." –Dave Riddle, 2015 Chevrolet 3500HD, 2017 Host Mammoth

"Out comes 2 tables and a camping gear stored in floor/walkway, 1 10×12 outdoor carpet/carpet, a pop-up shade over the tables and folding chairs, iii milk crates of solar LED stake lights, firewood, and miscellaneous extension cords and a water hose.  I too have fishing gear, a vacuum sealer, freezer numberless, knives, cutting boards, an extra case of bottled h2o, a flagpole, flag, and finally, the generator." – Kenneth Aggravate, 2008 Chevy Silverado 2500, 2000 Lance 810

"It really depends on how long we stay at a campsite, and what our intensions are for the trip.  If we are staying at a specific site for a few days, we set several things out.  If we're just passing through, a couple chairs and a grill is about it.

We always set upward a sign of who we are and where we're from.  Nosotros effigy information technology is an invitation for someone to conversation with us." –Rich Bain, 2010 Adventurer 810, 2014 Contrivance 3500

"We go fairly minimal, only in that location are essentials that come out every fourth dimension.

one. A picnic shelter tent.  We accept a Coleman screen tent which literally sets upwardly in ane minute.  It's essential since nosotros adopt not to cook indoors or go food for insects.

2. Camping ground chairs.  Once again, because we don't spend a lot of time in the camper, camping chairs are essential.

3. BBQ and camp stove.  They come up out immediately because they store where the cat box goes.

iv. Pet stuff.  Nosotros have a disabled cat then nosotros ready his pen the moment nosotros arrive (unless it's raining) and get the dog's tether tied upwardly.

5. Last just not to the lowest degree is a fake-grass type door mat which gets placed at the bottom of the stairs.  That way we can wipe off excess dirt, mud, and pine needles before going inside.

Depending on what fourth dimension we arrive and how long we're planning to stay, we may bring out other things right away, like the axe and woods.  We commonly bring our own if it's legal.

Nosotros'll bring out a shade shelter for the cat pen, unload the bikes, assurance and toys for our kid, and a solar console.  We practice not have any flamingos, signs, string lights or even a hammock." –Melissa Malejko, 2002 Chevy Silverado 2500HD, 1981 Okanagan

"The but detail that is always fix upwardly outside is the portable charcoal-broil since that is where most of the cooking takes identify.  It's ordinarily on a flat bit of ground unless there is a picnic tabular array handy.

The 2 folding chairs may or may non come out depending on our mood and how long we're staying.  They're probably out for half of our camping nights.  Nosotros also take a minor, 2-human foot by 2-foot folding table that gets used occasionally for eating at or playing cards.  The canopy is extended once in a while for shade or pelting protection.

I had owned the camper for over a twelvemonth before I put the canopy out for the first time.  Five minutes later, a ranger drove by and said there was a tornado warning and I should close the canopy and put anything loose within.  It was virtually another year earlier I used it again.

Generally, I use the camper for traveling rather than staying, so I try to keep the clutter to a minimum so that breaking camp is quick and easy." – Richard Mount, 2013 Ford F150, 2013 Four Wheel Camper Grandby

"We level the truck sometimes with wedges and other times just with the air numberless for a tweak.  I have a piffling T-type level in the cab and another that I put on the camper floor.  I take set the position of the cab level so it shows level merely when the camper section is level.  I have named the truck camper, Thunderbird Two.

I pull out the aftermarket folding stairs (not the useless concertina factory ones), roll out the awning, lay down the ground sheet, and put up the army camp table.  Next, I bring out the comfortable folding chairs.  I check the water heater is on and the fridge is on gas.  I break out a good book or the iPad and I scroll a smoke.  I cleft a beer and I am am set." – Dominic Costello, 2001 Ford F-250, 2015 Lance 850

"With the exception of an occasional camp chair, I keep my campsites clutter complimentary.  I don't have the room to conduct all of the stuff that some RVers deport and I don't want to deal with any of it.  The dazzler of traveling in a truck camper is that is it easy to continue the amount of stuff to a minimum." –Wanda Myers, 1999 Dodge 2500, 2003 Hallmark Cuchara

"Because we are also minimalists, we don't accept much outside our camper.

That existence the case, when we leave to become exploring, the site looks vacant.   We really had our site taken a couple times, even with our tag on the post.  To set this, I converted a conventional vivid yellow existent estate sign to say "This Site Occupied by Neil & Yoly".

When we had the Adventurer, we never used the ten×x popular-up nosotros carried.  Nosotros did occasionally sit down outside in the Zero Gravity recliners.

Our campsite reflects the amount of fourth dimension we're staying.  If it'southward an overnight or ii, things don't get set out.  If we're staying longer, more stuff gets set out such every bit the camp mat to proceed the cabin cleaner.  If information technology's hot and at that place'south no shade, we'll put up the 10×ten.

Now with our new Eureka we'll probably spend more than fourth dimension outside in overnice weather due to the more confined spaces within.

As you'll see in the picture, dorsum when nosotros had the Range Runner nosotros'd ready an elaborate camp largely due to the more confined space of the small vi×8 trailer." –Neil and Yoly Mullen, 2016 Ram 2500 Tradesman, 2018 Eureka

"Naked!  Nosotros merely use the electrical shore power.  We've learned over time that one time the fresh water is used, nosotros refill information technology as needed.  That keeps the chlorine level higher, and we have less of a run a risk to get skunky water in the fresh water tank.

We never apply our camp dump.  I'll actually brand a couple laps around the campground earlier dumping at the common dumpsite to stir up the contents earlier dumping." – Philip Tron, 2009 Chevy 3500, 2012 Lance 1050

"Only my truck parked.  No other junk!" –Chuck Cox, 2005 Ford F-150, Range Rider Cap

"Bare minimalist, more often than not.  I dry out camp the majority of times finding trail heads, grocery parking lots, park entrances, and (in cities) apartment somewhat secluded dead end streets.

There is no fix.  As well I don't normally spend more than than i nighttime in one spot unless I am feeling under the weather, in which case I am not interested in decor.

I practise more of a set if I'm staying several days to see an surface area, particularly if I am having guests.  Then I volition prepare the standard picnic table with a covering, a stove top, some folding chairs, etc.

I do carry a small roll-up outdoor carpet for utilise in muddy or sandy situations, but I don't generally roll it out except for and then.  I have no awning.  My pleasure comes from cycling, hiking and the h2o.  Sitting exterior in campsite doesn't appeal unless there are guests." –Michele McLeod, Ford F-150, 2000 Travel Hawk 9.v

"We practice the bare minimum.  Nosotros camp in grizzly/black bear state, so we keep everything inside when we are gone for the day on our quads.  At night, nosotros have a two burner cookstove and maybe a burn.  The burn depends on fire restrictions, which happens frequently in Montana.

We accept two chairs we bring forth, merely that is the extent of what we do.  We cook exterior even in heavy snow but, when it rains, we commonly scamper back inside.

We bask camping with our extended family, which involves generally hiking, photography, exploring, and quad riding." –Diane Erhart, 2002 Contrivance Ram 2500, 2016 Northstar 950

"Very minimalist.  We prepare out our lawn chairs, put a table cloth on the picnic table and that is about it.  Maybe nosotros'll put the campsite stove on the table.

We rarely stay in one place for more than one nighttime.  If nosotros are going to stay in a campsite for a calendar week or longer, we might accept a screen firm along to set over the table, simply we have only done that one time or twice in ten years of truck camping." –Allen Brummel, 2013 Ram 2500, 2016 Northstar 650SC

"Less is always better since storage infinite is always at a premium.  Our theory of RV stuff has ever been if one thing is to be added, one matter must go.  And if we demand everything we take with us then we can't add anything new.  That manner traveling is cheap since we tin can't purchase new stuff." –Russell Berquam, 2014 Ford F-350, 2015 Arctic Fob 1140

"I set up two chairs under the slide-out." – Jeff Hauser, 1996 Dodge 2500, 2006 Arctic Fox 860

"As full-time RVers in a fifth wheel trailer for almost three years, nosotros accept too embraced a minimalist life.  Our army camp consists of putting out ii lawn chairs and our canis familiaris's pb.  The less we have out, the quicker we can caput out in case of severe weather.

This fall we'll migrate to a truck camper for our 6 months of winter travels – includng Mexico.  Our minimalism volition be tested further." –Mike and Louise Bacqué, 2013 GMC 3500 HD, Unknown camper as of yet

"Pretty minimalist.  We put out chairs and perhaps a table.  We do employ a portable barbecue and sometimes a tablecloth on the campground'south picnic table if it's dirty or greasy.  That'south it." –Neal Williams, 2016 Ford F250, 2000 Bigfoot 2500 10.vi

"Information technology depends on the length of the stay, or if nosotros are towing our boat.  If nosotros're staying less than three days, we create a run for the dog between the camper and a tree.  If that'due south not possible, I screw a leash ring into the basis to tether Fido.  Then, I'll hookup utilities, hook on the camper steps, put out the door mat, open the slide and the awning (if it's non windy).  That's most it for outside.

If information technology's more than than a four day stay, we'll have the camper off the truck.  We usually haul stuff in the camper and boat (chairs, BBQ, stabilizing jacks, camper steps, ladder, fishing gear, h2o jugs, and an ice chest with actress nutrient if information technology's an extended stay).  One time we get in at our destination, we empty the vehicles and stow our gear under the camper.

If we know we are going to entertain friends during our visit, we volition pull no stops – awning lights, outdoor carpet, picnic table textile, gazebo over the picnic table in case of rain, extra chairs, side tables, firewood and accoutrements." –Tim and Grace O'Sullivan, 2017 Silverado 3500, 2008 Snowriver 9.half-dozen camper

"I put downward the Fox Landing, unlock the door, power out the slide, plug-in, install the pressure regulator, install the water filter, hook up the water hose, and turn on the water.  Then, I get out our chairs, and the table and grill if I have to grill anything.  I get my wife/best friend her beverage and a beverage for myself, and we relax." –George Visconti, 2015 GMC 3500HD, 2016 Arctic Play a joke on 990

"Just like you and Angela, we open up the door, transfer the cat, and plug in a 20-amp power cord.  Nosotros become bare minimum.

We consider ourselves travelers and not campers.  We stay in a campground only to dump the tanks and make full the fresh h2o for i night.  Even if we stay multiple nights, we use the campsite every bit a base camp so that nosotros can visit multiple sights in the area.

We dump and fill every bit we get out the campground in the morn.  We can vacate a site in ten minutes or less." –Jon Hancock, 2015 Ram 3500, Northern Calorie-free 10-2EX CDSE

"We are minimalists.  I have a United States flag on the ladder, tiny charcoal grill (not always used, but I remove information technology to access the flag), and sometimes a chair or two." – Scott Spradley, 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, 1998 Lance Squire Lite 186

"My wife Elaine and I enjoy dry camping ground in remote areas while gold prospecting.  In that situation, we are unremarkably there for a week or so.  Usually we don't see anybody then it doesn't have to have it real pretty.  If we are just exploring or passing through, nosotros go pretty minimalist." – Ron Meredith, 1994 Ford F-350, 1991 Lance 8.6

"We are minimalists.  A couple chairs and a stove or grill are all we fix in campsite.  Sometimes we deploy the awning if we need the shade." –Thou. Stoute, 2002 Dodge 2500, 2004 Lance 920

"Usually we just unload if we are staying more one 24-hour interval.  Then we put the slide out and hook up water and electric, if it's available.

We volition walk the dogs and so relax.  We take a couple of camp chairs if nosotros want to sit exterior and promise to come across fellow campers.  We also sit inside and play a game if the conditions dictates." –Pam Conner, 2015 Ford F350, 2015 Arctic Fob 1150

"Nosotros typically pull in, level, and pull out our stairs.  So we send out the slide, and we're done.  If the weather and landscape are right, we'll exit the chairs and table.  We will sit there with our wine or beer and enjoy the outdoors.  If I'k really adventurous, I'll make a burn and bask the evening." – Tim and Linda Zeh, 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 3500, 2007 Arctic Play tricks 1150

"I am a minimalist.  I just pull into a level military camp, extend the awning over the dorsum door, and set out a lawn chair.  Then, I'm done.  Campfires are near obsolete, and banned during hot season.  The British Columbia provincial campgrounds no longer supply firewood.  They want to reduce polluting the air.  Too bad radios, barking dogs, and loud talking people aren't banned too." –Vic Smith, 2015 Ford F350, 2013 Charlatan 89RB

"Our idea of setting upwardly is to plug in and drop the steps.  We may use our folding chairs, merely we do not leave them upward." – Matt Wiegand, 2014 Ford F150, 2017 Adventurer 80RB

"We deploy the awning and a couple of camp chairs, hookup h2o and electric, and call information technology good." –Howard Bisco, 2015 Ford F250, 2014 Palomino HS-6601

"Although we are not total minimalists similar you, we usually put out our folding chairs and folding table.  This allows us to sit and relax exterior the rig and talk with other campers walking by.  We accept had many memorable conversations sitting outside and information technology's a great fashion to make friends while on the road!" –Charles Coushaine, 2001 Ford F350, 2012 Chalet DS116RB

"If at that place are hookups, we'll use them, merely non always.  I have smaller Us and US Navy flags that I display on the front of the truck.  Nosotros'll pull out the folding chairs and set them upward.  Bobbi likes to sit down outside and read.  Also, a small rug for wiping our feet to continue dirt out of the camper goes at the lesser of the steps.

If we're going to melt dinner over a campfire, usually a "pan of stuff" or hamburgers, the axe, and small bow saw come out so that I can get firewood ready.  An oilcloth goes on the table if we're eating outside.  Other than that we're fairly minimalistic – no fancy lights or other decorations." –Wes Brubacher and Bobbi Chamberlain, 2018 GMC 3500 Sierra, 2005 Bigfoot 10.6

"I am not going to accept upwards space, weight, or my time on crap to display.  We camp to enjoy the outdoors.  Nosotros merely use the blank minimum to exist comfortable when nosotros are in the military camp and not out enjoying the surrounding areas.

The higher up motion picture is how nosotros typically look.  We have since upgraded our camper, but have not inverse what we bring with us.  It is all put away when nosotros are out or at nighttime.  It is less than 2 minutes to set up and have down." –Lou Buesseler, 2000 Ford F250, 2016 Northstar 850SC

"Just the bare minimum.  Information technology's less work that way.  I go camping to relax; not to load, unload, and set a bunch stuff." – Ron Williams, 1997 Ford F250, 2003 Lance 1010

"I guess I could be considered a minimalist like you guys.  I think at the most I unload the grill, but that's nearly it.  Everything else is contained in the trailer.  The generator is out front so I just run it while it's on the carrier.

I keep information technology elementary so, when it's time to leave, I but pull off.  I haven't used hookups withal.  I've but been to two campsites but neither had hookups available.  That's the simply two times I've tried.  I prefer to be self supporting.

I'm non that organized to call in advance and make plans to military camp.  I just bound in the truck and get wherever.  I figure out what's bachelor when I decide on a destination." –Jacques Bonaparte, 2000 GMC K3500, 2018 Camplite 8.6

"When we camp we have our chairs and, of course, our Christmas lights around the camper.  We also have a sign which I designed and my husband fabricated letting everyone know who we are and where nosotros are from.  Nosotros bring a lawn chair for each of u.s..  Of grade a nice rice mat at the entrance which is covered past an canopy." –Pem Richardson, 2016 Ram 3500, 2017 Adventurer 86FB

"We always put upward our side awning and our chairs.  If it's actually rainy, we employ our rear awning likewise.  It's dandy to kick it later a day of hiking or biking.  Great sunsets." –Mike Kolinski, 2012 GMC 2500 Hard disk drive, 2012 Four Wheel Camper Hawk

"Truck camping in and of itself helps clinch a minimalist approach, which my domestic dog, Paco, and I actually appreciate.  I become out a couple of chairs, a small table for the grill, an awning and some skillful tunes.  In xv minutes we are packed and ready to move to our next cool and exciting location.

No fuss.  I am solar powered, completely off the grid, and able to go virtually anywhere.  It makes me smile just thinking virtually it!  How most you?" – Eddie Cano, 2012 Silverado 2500, 2013 Northstar Igloo 9.five Igloo

"We are somewhat minimalists, though after reading my list, maybe not so much.  Nosotros exercise accept our nice folding chairs, a doormat, a step stool, a saucepan for the gray water, and a screen house pitched over the picnic tabular array.  We like to be outdoors, but we live and military camp in mosquito land.

Nosotros also like to cook outdoors, and so the camp stove goes on the picnic table.  We use an old shower curtain to comprehend the sundry yucky things that critters go out on picnic tables.  Various other things go in and out like dish pans, food, binoculars, a bird book, Banana-grams, etc.

If we are angling, a 17-foot boat follows u.s.a. into the campsite.  If nosotros are camping ground on our land, fire-starters and marshmallow forks also come out.  I cleaned out under the bed in the old pop-up prior to selling it, and off-loaded lots of stuff that we used simply once." – Kathy Claycomb, 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 Hard disk drive, Getting a new Northstar in two months

"We are minimalists.  We usually don't take anything out except our chairs." –John Bull, 2004 Contrivance 3500, 2015 Arctic Trick 990

"It depends.  A lot of times I use my truck camper as a base military camp for hikes, canyoneering, exploring, etc.  At those times, nothing comes out of the camper.  I slumber at the trail head, make a quick breakfast, and then I am out exploring.  Getting to those remote trail heads is 1 of the main reasons I purchased a truck camper.

When we camp at a destination for a few days or more than, we set out chairs, BBQ, table cloth, canopy, and a few other things." –Jim Hignite, 2016 Ram 3500, 2007 Lance 1055

"My camp is pretty much bare bones.  Outside there is a table with a stove and my chair.  Since my camper is the shell model, all that's inside is a bed.  The photo is from my turkey hunting camp near Greer, Arizona." –Tom Waters, 2003 Dodge 2500, 2014 FWC Grandby Crush

"I would say we are minimalists.  The camp stove or BBQ only comes out when nosotros are using them and army camp chairs are put away for the nighttime.  My only backlog is a Zero Gravity recliner for nap time.

Most people look strangely at our army camp since we pull the picnic tabular array right up to the back door since our domestic dog has not learned to climb a ladder." –Tricia Stonemason, 2009 Ford F350, 2008 Montana Ponderosa 9.half-dozen

"It depends.  If I am traveling with my wife and we are at the aforementioned place for more than ane solar day, we'll set the awning (weather condition permitting), get out the chairs, and the folding table.  If I'm by myself, I may get out a chair or two just I keep information technology simple.

If others are joining us, then we will also get out the other folding table, hang lines for lanterns, and try to go wood for the fire pit.  By and large we continue things uncomplicated since it's very easy to go out things behind or run over things.  If the dogs are with us, nosotros set out their water dishes and observe a place to anchor their 50-foot anchor lines." –Harry Palmer, 2008 Dodge Ram 2500, 2008 Lance 915

"I'thousand definitely a minimalist.  My usual setup is a camping chair, small folding side tabular array, and a folding footstool.  It makes for a quick getaway, if needed." –Ralph Goff (aka Ramblin' Ralph), 2006 GMC 2500HD, 2001 Lance 845

"Nosotros accept a truck camper to go along things easy.  We stop, put out the slides, throw out the step and a couple of chairs, and we are washed.  Possibly later we take out the charcoal grill and grill up some burgers or brats.  Truck camping ground is supposed to exist easy, right?" –Lee and Mary Nelson, 2015 Ford F350, 2015 Lance 1052

"Most of the time we have a campsite that has electrical.  Our campsite usually only consists of a couple of chairs, sometimes a small table, and in one case in awhile a screen room, depending upon needs.  We usually utilize the picnic table when bachelor.  When cooking outside, we use an electric skillet.  Weather permitting, nosotros spend about of our time exterior, either relaxing, people watching, crafting, or exploring by walking or biking.  If we are stuck within, we will read or craft, sometimes listen to a pocket-sized portable radio, but we have never had a television in any camper we have owned.

Depending upon where nosotros are at, or how long we will be there, or if I desire to do something and Rose wants to stay at the military camp, nosotros will unload the camper and use the truck to get around." –Stan and Rose Schroth, 1999 Ford F250SD, 2016 Travel Calorie-free 800X

"Very minimal." –Dorsey Emmerich, 2015 Four Wheel Grandby

"We back in and open the door." – Dave, 2022 Ram 4500, 2005 Lance 1191

"Very basic." –Jim and Irene Thompson, 1999 Ford, 2001 Kodiak Thousand-99

"I am the minimalist.  My married woman is the presentation.  I prepare chairs, put down the awning, and my married woman sets up a little sign, doggy play area, and planter!" –Frank Makin, 2010 Ford F250, 2010 Bigfoot 2500 9.half-dozen

Source: https://www.truckcampermagazine.com/question-of-the-week/how-truck-campers-set-up-camp/

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