People are always asking me questions about their favorite truck accessories. Chances are if you’re here then you love your truck and the culture that surrounds it. Below I’ve created a list of the 10 Pickup Truck Must Have Accessories that are favorite products of ours and our readers. These products will help make a big difference in your day to day interactions with your pickup truck, whether it’s used work for play, work or perhaps both.
Every one of these accessories I’ve reviewed and compiled below on this list will be a great addition to your truck’s usefulness while helping to stretch it’s lifespan. These products are in no particular order. Maybe one of these accessories is something you’ve been looking for all along and just didn’t know it existed.
10 Pickup Truck Must Have Accessories
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Ranking |
Image |
Product |
Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Read The Full Review |
 |
DU-HA Under Seat Storage |  (4.5 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 2. Read The Full Review |
 |
Aries Seat Defender | (4.5 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
| 3. Read The Full Review |
 |
Access 50710 EZ Retriever |  (4.2 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 4. Read The Full Review |
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Undercover Swing Case Storage Box |  (4.4 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 5. Read The Full Review |
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Pop & Lock Gate Defender |  (3.8 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 6. Read The Full Review |
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AMP Research Bed Step |  (4.8 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 7. Read The Full Review |
 |
TruXedo B-Light Truck Bed Lighting |  (4 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 8. Read The Full Review |
 |
Husky X-act Contour Floor Liners |  (4.7 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 9. Read The Full Review |
 |
Dee Zee Tailgate Assist | (4.5 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
| 10. Read The Full Review |
 |
Bedrug Full Bed Liner | (4.7 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
1. Du-Ha Under Seat Storage
Consumer Ratings (4.5 / 5)
The Du-Ha Under Seat Storage accessory makes use of the wasted space under your pickup trucks seats. We’ve all probably put stuff under our seats before, but only to have it move around while driving. This could be very dangerous because it could interfere with your driving. It’s also a great way to keep your stuff out of sight and out of mind minimizing the possibility of a break in. Most models are available in multiple colors that will match almost every interior color.
The DU-HA even includes a built in gun rack/organizer where you can safely store your guns in a upright position that is out of the way of other items. Depending on the model, it can hold from 2 to 4 guns. This will help avoid a accidental discharge. Double check your local laws, but in most states the DU-HA under seat storage bin acts as a legal gun case. Installation is quick and easy and shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes.
These are made in the USA from a heavy-duty polyethylene and have a lifetime warranty.
DU-HA Under Seat Storage Features
- Store your gear and valuables safely out of sight underneath your back seat
- Engineered to fit your specific truck with matching interior colors
- Installation is quick and easy
- Includes organizers/gun racks; this model holds up to (2) shotguns or rifles, without scopes
- Made in the USA from heavy duty polyethylene
- 30-day money back guarantee and lifetime warranty
What Consumers are Saying about their DU-HA Under Seat Storage
- Awesome truck organizer! It fits my 2017 Chevy Silverado Z71 Double Cab perfectly; in fact, it fits so well that a casual observer wouldn’t even realize that it’s there or would assume that it was a factory item.
- It looks very nice and is thick and sturdy. On my 2015 Silverado double cab, it uses the tire change kit to secure it in place. You have to position the little clip on that piece just right, but you’ll figure it out in about 10 seconds.
- It does keep all my stuff together and out of the foot space while remaining accessible. Does this replace a bed box? No way. But it keeps everything inside, dry, and secure.
- Lots of extra storage. I have a shotgun, jumper cables, bungee cords, ratchet straps, broom handle, bed scraper, entrenchment tool, tow strap, and a bunch of hand tools all stored in it. Works great!
- Installed in my 2017 F150 XLT and it fit like a glove. Plenty of space for whatever you need to store. The product is solid and made of hard plastic and is much better than the husky product I purchased for my 2013 F150. Product was super easy to install and took less than 10 minutes to do.
- Fits perfectly under our backseat of our f150, 4 door truck. It looks like the bottom of the seat as well.
- I installed this in my 2014 Toyota Tundra Double Cab (no subwoofer). It fits perfectly under the seat with no interference.
- This thing is the best thing since sliced bread, at least in my double cab Tundra. It fits perfectly under the rear seat and installs in less than 5 minutes.
Search DU-HA Storage for your Truck on Amazon
2. Aries Seat Defender
Consumer Ratings (4.5 / 5)
Having a Aries Seat Defender on your pickup truck’s seats will help protect them from damage against dirt, spills, pet dander, rain water and sweat. If you’ve ever draped a towel over the back of your seat to “protect” it then you know that’s not at all ideal and a seat defender is something you should consider. A towel just slides around and soaks through if you’re sweating or wet from the rain.
If you’re an active outdoors-men then you’ll often get into your truck while sweaty, dirty, rain soaked or some combo of all three. You are essentially in no condition to sit in your truck unless of course you don’t mind ruining your seats. That’s were a Seat Defender comes in handy, when you need it, just slide it over the headrest to cover to seat and in just a few seconds you have a waterproof seat cover. It’s built to protect and doesn’t slide around because of it’s grippe material. After using it, you can just shake it off, let it dry if its wet and fold it up for the next time you’ll need to use it. Best of all you won’t have to clean your trucks seats afterwards.
The bottom layer of the seat cover is made of a water-repelling thermoplastic rubber which is tough, grips tightly to the seat and resists wear. The top layer of the seat cover is made of a 600-denier terylene woven fabric. This material helps add comfort and to prevent dirt and spills from penetrating into the upholstery of your pickup trucks seat.
Keep the towels for the beach or the shower and let the Aries Seat Defender seat covers protect your trucks seats along with it’s value.
Aries Seat Defender Features
- Use-as-needed, universal design
- 100% waterproof, dual-sided construction
- Machine washable (air dry recommended)
- Allows for side airbag deployment
- Universal design fits most seats
- Available in 4 colors, black, grey, brown and camo
- Available in 4 models for bucket seats, bench seats, XL bench seats and a cargo area mat.
What Consumers Say about about their Aries Seat Defender
- I got this as a temporary seat cover for my 2000 Wrangler. I sweat a LOT and frequently need to bring a beach towel for the drive back after a running or cycling event.
- Keep in mind, this is not a permanent seat cover. It does not drape over the sides of the seat. However, I’ve had it on the seat since getting it about a week ago because I keep forgetting to remove it — it’s that effective as a solution.
- Just received mine and it fit well on my 2017 Tacoma. I like that the backing keeps it from shifting while getting in and out. Seems very well made and the camo is neat looking too.
- Simply the best car seat covers I have ever found. I’ve tried all the other cheaper seat covers and I have settled on ARIES SEAT DEFENDER as my seat cover of choice in all my cars.
- They work great, don’t move around on the leather, wash up easy in the washing machine, and allow my car heated seats to work normally.
- I think these are perfect they don’t slip all over the place, I just leave them on the drivers and pax side cuz my dog and I are always wet or sweaty my car a 2003 WRX has bolsters in the seat and they still fit good
Search for Aries Seat Defenders on Amazon
3. Access 50710 EZ Retriever
Consumer Ratings (4.2 / 5)
Keeping the Access EZ Retriever in the bed of your puckup truck is a great idea for anyone, especially shorter people. It’s a basic accessory that takes up nearly no room at all and will make your life a lot easier.
When objects slide around in the bed of the truck it makes them hard to reach and crawling up into the bed of the truck isn’t fun for anyone. The EZ Retriever will reach back for you helping you to grab and bring closer to you those objects that shifted into the hardest to reach place.
Maybe you don’t mind crawling up into the bed of your pickup truck or maybe you’re tall with a long reach and don’t have a problem getting objects from all over the bed of your truck. But, if you can’t use it, think about who could, like an elderly parent?
Access EZ Retriever Features
- Heavy-Duty Construction
- Easily Reach Cargo
- Extendable
- Works with any truck
- From tip of retrieval hook to the bottom of the handle is 69 inches fully extended
What Consumers Say about their EZ Retriever
- I’m handicapped, so when UPS drops off my packages I use to pull them into my home. Great product!
- It does what it’s intended to do. We use them in all our vans, and they haven’t broken yet (we’ve had them for about 6 months).
- Hubby uses this a lot! I love it too since I’m so short and if I have the truck and need to get something this is very handy.
- Adjusts easily and feels very sturdy. I have a canopy and keep this in the bed of my truck, but I appreciate the adjustable design because I can also collapse it to store easily in the cabin.
- This tool is the best thing i have seen to grab stuff in the pickup bed and being aluminum no rust. WORKS GREAT very handy!
More Details of the EZ Retriever on Amazon
4. Undercover Swing Case Storage Box
Consumer Ratings (4.4 / 5)
The Undercover Swing Case Storage Box is a great way to organize your pickup truck bed while keeping your item from floating around the bed. These can be used instead of a bulky toolbox up front or as a supplemental storage space. The cases are custom designed for each truck and they fit perfectly in truck bed near the tailgate, swinging out easily and can quickly be removed if your need the extra space. Best part? It locks with a key, giving you extra security if you do not a locking tonneau cover or one at all for that matter.
The Swing Case can be used to to hold drinks/ice/snacks while tailgating before a football game along with any other tools and belongs. Everything will remain secure inside and the swing case does not get in the way of tonneau covers or tailgates. NOTE: If you have a bed liner you may have to cut it for the installation of this storage case.
Swing Case Storage Box Features
- Works with all tonneau covers
- Holds up to 75 pounds
- Removable via quick release
- Moisture seal keeps contents dry
- Easy installation
- Lockable lid
- Drivers & Passenger side cases available
What Consumers Say about their Undercover Swing Case
- This item looked a little on the cheap side online, but I was happily surprised when it showed up. The thing is designed to be installed with no bed liner… but they give recommendations on how to install it if you have a bed liner.
- It doesn’t take up any of the useful space in the bed. If I need to haul some sort of high volume material (rock, sand, mulch, etc.), I can simply lift the box off the hinge and put it in the cab or leave it at home.
- I really like this box. It has a place for a master/combo lock so that they can’t just swing the toolbox out and carry away as well.
- I have these toolboxes installed on my truck for about a month. They hold everything that I need and then some. Have them on both the passenger and driver side of my 2013 Ford F150 Super cab.
- Surprisingly they do provide a lot more room than I thought they would. Installation was easy and seems to operate as advertised. Hopefully they will withstand the test of time. I’m very happy with this purchase.
View Undercover Swing Case on Amazon here
5. Pop & Lock Gate Defender
Consumer Ratings (3.8 / 5)
Believe it or not, but tailgates are stolen off pickup trucks quite often and the cost of replacing them can cost thousands. A Pop & Lock Gate Defender secures your tailgate making it much harder for thief’s to steal your tailgate off your brand new truck. As tailgate thefts are on the rise, the Gate Defender is a terrific low cost option to help prevent your tailgate from being stolen. It installs in seconds with no special tools required and includes a set of keys for easy removal. Having one of these is better then wasting time, money and hassle that can come from dealing with insurance companies.
The Gate Defender is a universal tailgate locking device that is designed to fit any truck to prevent tailgate theft. It’s designed similar to a padlock, it fits around the passenger side tailgate hinge and locks the tailgate to the truck. Once it’s locked into place, the tailgate can easily open and close but cannot be removed.
Pop & Lock Gate Defender Features
- Helps prevent your tailgate from being stolen
- Universal design, check application for proper fit
- Installs in seconds with no special tools
- 1 Year Warranty
What Consumers Say about their Gate Defender
- I can’t say for sure whether the lock is effective or not as nobody has stolen my tailgate. Is it because of the lock? Maybe. I certainly am not as worried that maybe I didn’t lock my tailgate. I have used it now for about 4 months in Los Angeles on my Ford F-150. There is a lot of tailgate thieves here but so far, so good.
- For sure better than the host clamp method, and it is reasonably priced.
- No issues, Gives piece of mind. Installs fast. protected from elements. I looked at it long after purchase and during a truck wash. No rust, no fade…I pre-oiled mine with spray oil.
- Easy install on 2015 Tacoma. Good fit. Unobtrusive. Inexpensive alternative to tailgate lock. Highly recommend this easy fix to a potentially expensive tailgate replacement if nothing is done to secure it in place.
- Only two minutes to install – saves over money over not installing one. Not only will you loose a tailgate, but a back-up camera, lock system and body shop paint to match. Highly recommend this solution!
View The Gate Defender on Amazon
6. AMP Research Bed Step
Consumer Ratings [4.8]
If you transport a lot of items on a regular basis then a retractable AMP Research Bed Step is a great choice for you. It makes it easier and safer for you to step up into the bed of your pickup truck. Don’t risk hurting yourself by straining your knee and/or legs while stepping from the ground onto your tailgate. This retractable bed step cuts down that stepping distance.
This product is made in the USA and comes with a 3-year warranty. The bed step mounts to the corner of your trucks existing bumper/frame mounts. While your not using the bed step it conveniently stows away under the bumper.
AMP Research Bed Step Features
- Precision, stainless steel pivot pins for rock solid stability and bombproof, die cast, aluminum alloy linkage components
- Anodized and coated to resist corrosion
- Custom designed for each pickup truck model
- Rigid, non slip, glass reinforced composite step pad for safe footing even in mud, snow or wet conditions
- Simple 10 minute no-drill bolt-on installation
- 3-year warranty
- 300 pounds load capacity
- Made in the USA
What Consumers Say about their AMP Research Bed Step
- All components seem to be made of high quality materials, are well made, and very well designed. All parts fit together perfectly. Once installed, the step is unobtrusive, yet easy to deploy and retract, with just a slight touch of one’s foot.
- As for its intended use, it makes getting into, and out of, the bed of our truck much, much easier, especially since it is a 3500 and the bumper, as well as the bed of the truck, are so high off the ground.
- Awesome product, so easy to install, makes getting in out of of the truck bed much easier, would have ordered way sooner but it’s a bit pricey, but you get what you pay for, excellent quality.
- Pretty easy to install and works as described. Took maybe 1/2 hour to 45 minutes. This sure beats lugging a step stool around.
- This step is awesome. I have a 4″ lift and 37″ tall tires, so this was a must have. Even though I’m disabled, I can still get in and out of the bed with zero problems.
Search Bed Step Options for your Truck on Amazon
7. TruXedo B-Light Truck Bed Lighting
Consumer Ratings (4 / 5)
When your loading or unloading items from your pickup truck bed the TruXedo B-Light Truck Bed Lighting 18 inch long LED light strip will provide a bright lighting solution so you are not blinding working in the dark. It can be mounted just about anywhere with the integrated peel and stick tape.
It’s battery powered operation can be manually turned on and off or it can be set to automatically shut off after 5 minutes to save battery life. The B-Light isn’t just for a pickup truck bed though, it can be used anywhere you need light where there is a surface to stick it to. For example in gun cabinets, small utility closets or under the hood while making repairs just to name a few uses; you get the idea.
TruXedo B-Light Features
- TruXedo’s B-Light battery powered truck bed lighting system is 18 inch super bright LED strip that mounts anywhere
- No wiring needed; the unit is powered by 3-AA batteries
- Mounting is a snap, just peel, stick and go
- Entire unit is weather proof
- Unit can be used for endless applications where auxiliary light is needed
What Consumers Sat about their TruXedo B-Light Truck Bed Lighting
- The adhesive isn’t too strong. I installed mine on the truck bed wall and it started to peel off a bit over the second week. I just added some 3M double sided tape to it and it’s been going strong for the past 5 months. Lights are bright and lights up the entire bed (with a cover on it).
- Have had it installed for about 3 months in my truck under a bed cover and no issue. It lights up the bed well. Only one complaint – the wire from the battery back to the LED strip is to short.
- Great little product that gives off a lot of light. I got a second one for the other side, just so I don’t have to walk around the tailgate all the time.
- The light is very powerful and lights up the entire truck bed BUT the sticky strip for the light is horrible. The paper backing peeled off but there was hardly ANY stickiness on the light strip.
- I am very pleased with these LED lights. I had no problem with the adhesive tape that came with the product. The key is to clean the surface with rubbing alcohol and the right environmental temperature, then you won’t have any problems. I agree that one light strip will light up your whole truck bed.
View TruXedo B-Light LED Strip on Amazon
8. Husky X-Act Contour Floor Liners
Consumer Ratings (4.7 / 5)
Having a custom designed contoured floor liner is a great way to keep your carpet looking good and the Husky X-Act Contour Floor Liners will do just that. Everyday use alone is enough to drop food crumbs, rocks, dirt, sand, mud and other debris laying all over the floor of your brand new truck. These floor liners are a perfect fit to protect your carpet and contain the messes.
Husky mats are designed with raised edges that will keep spills and dirt contained within the mate itself. When your shoes are wet or have snow on them the raised groves will ensure your feet stay dry while the water drips down into the mat groves until you clean the mat.
If you live in a colder climate that sees a lot of snow then you know that no matter how many times you kick your snow covered boots against the running boards there will still be snow and slush stuck to them. These mats were designed to keep all that snow, slush and mud contained in the mats. These are one of the best floor mats available today because they fit perfectly and easily “installed”.
Husky X-Act Floor Mat Features
- Formfit design process perfectly forms each liner to the detailed contours of your specific ride
- Rubberized DuraGrip material was designed with comfort in mind with the perfect balance of softness and strength
- Formfit edge is a raised ridge that runs along the door jam, protecting your truck or SUV from all manner of mess
- Stay put cleats help keep the liner from shifting around underfoot whether you’ve got carpet or vinyl
- No hassle lifetime guarantee
What Consumers Say about their Husky X-Act Floor Mats
- Love these more than my last truck floor mats. I had weathertech in my last truck and my foot would slip when wet.
- I like these very much. Have used Weathertech in the past and these are equally as good. I particularly like the fact that the outside lip of the liner fits over the door sill.
- Great mats. Fit truck perfect with no issues. Side walls keep dirt or mud in place as well as any liquids. Holding up great after months of daily use.
- Excellent I like them better than the weather tech that I usually buy. These are more of a flexible design and stay in place much better and your feet seem to grip them instead of sliding on the other brand. My new go to will be husky liners.
- These work & fit perfect in my 2017 F150. Fit right in and have close to 100% coverage. The do not interfere with the pedals at all. They even dip down into the kick panel a bit.
Search for Husky Mats for your Truck on Amazon
9. Dee Zee Tailgate Assist
Consumer Ratings (4.5 / 5)
The Dee Zee Tailgate Assist is a great tailgate accessory will make using it much easier. You can probably already figure out that the Dee Zee acts as a shock absorber allowing your tailgate to glide down into the open position.
Often times when you go to open the tailgate of your pickup truck you find yourself struggling to open the tailgate and with no free hands to stop it from slamming open. Well with the Dee Zee Assist this is prevented and you don’t have to worry about damaging your tail.
This is really a must have for every pickup truck owner in my eyes. Each of these tailgate assists are custom designed per each truck model.
Dee Zee Tailgate Assist Features
- Designed for a Specific Make and Model
- Tested to handle Heavy Daily Use
- Easy, No Drill Installation with Simple hand Tools
- All Hardware Included
- Mounts to Driver’s Side
What Consumers Say about their Dee Zee Tailgate Assist
- Easy to install with minimal tools required. Read and follow instructions and it’s that easy. Ford should put this on from the factory.
- This made a big difference in my truck bed lowering. This was so much easier to install vs what the online video’s showed.
- This is an outstanding product that nobody should be without. It took all of about 5 minutes to install and puts a smile on my face ever time I (don’t) drop the tailgate!!!
- Great product! Definitely makes using the tailgate easier as you can just hit the handle and let it go!Installs in about 10 minutes.
- All you need is a 10 mm wrench and an Allan wrench. The torx wrench is included. If your hesitating; stop now and buy this! Worth every penny.
Search for Tailgate Assist for your Truck on Amazon
10. BedRug Full Bedliner
Consumer Ratings (4.7 / 5)
The BedRug Full Bedliner is a commonly misunderstood accessory. People often say “That’s not why I bought a truck”. “Why would I carpet my truck bed”; you get the idea. Well if you end up buying one, it will quickly become one of your favorite purchases.
The BedRug isn’t at all a carpet. It’s a mold, wear and water resistant plastic that is very durable. When it’s paired with a tonneau cover it’ll change how you use your pickup truck. Your bed can essentially become a giant trunk. But don’t worry because it’ll still be durable and touch enough to carry dirt, gravel, mulch, carry tools along with anything else you may want to transport.
When hauling things like bicycles and groceries they won’t slide around banging all over the place and you’ll no longer dent and scratch up your bed. You can easily clean it up with a vacuum and hose it off.
BedRug Full Bedliner Features
- Rugged construction handles heavy cargo
- Bleach, oil and even battery acid washes off
- Custom designed for specific make and models
- Comfortable knee-friendly 3/4 inch cushioned floor
- Anti-skid surface prevents cargo from shifting; engineered for exterior use
- Stain and UV resistant easily cleaned with just water
What Consumers Say about their BedRug Bedliner
- Great looking alternative to a hard bed an does keep stuff from sliding all around the bed.
- Ordered for a RAM 1500 Quad Cab w/6.4 bed. I have this vehicle on lease, do did not want to add a spray in liner. I did not want a hard plastic drop in liner because (from past experience) they are super slippery, and I planned to use the truck to move furniture (which I didn’t want sliding all over the pickup bed).
- Fit pretty well not exactly perfect but close enough. So amazing to be able to tailgate or just sit in watch the stars, fireworks you name it.
- Best bedliner ever, much better than spray on. For reference I worked in oil and gas when I used this product. Took everything you could throw at it and laughed, then I sprayed it out with a pressure washer and it looked brand new:-) feels just like a heavy duty rug, but this is so amazing! Get it if they make it for your vehicle!
- I was on the fence for almost a year and when I finally ordered mine and installed it I wish I would of ordered it years ago!
Search for a BedRug Liner for Your Truck on Amazon
Will Accessorizing my Pickup Truck Void my Warranty?
It’s unlikely that the installation of most accessories will void the warranty of any vehicle, especially the ones that do not require vehicle modifications. But, it doesn’t hurt to check your vehicle manufacturers information if you’re concerned about your warranty. It’s always recommended to have parts professionally installed if you’re not sure what to do. Legally, a vehicle manufacturer cannot void the warranty on a vehicle due to an aftermarket part unless they can prove that the aftermarket part caused or contributed to the failure in the vehicle (per the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. 2302(C)) Learn More Here.
Conclusion
While all of these accessories are great in their own rights, they all may not be for you. I’ve put together this list solely based on my personal experiences and recommendations that have been made to me in the past. Please take your time to review all of these above stated products and think about how well they could improve your day to day use of your pickup truck.
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If you are here looking a nice roll up tonneau cover then chances are you want to protect something in the bed of your pickup truck, want to keep things out of sight of possible criminals, like the clean look of a tonneau cover, want to improve gas mileage or maybe you want all of the above and a roll up tonneau cover can do all of those things.
Having a pickup truck has it’s many conveniences but can at times be inconvenient as well. For example if you are in an area that rains alot or an area in which it snows then you probably want to protect anything in the be of your pickup truck from precipitation. Or if you live in a higher crime away, it’s not smart to leave things in plain sight in the bed for criminals to see, so you’ll want to keep things out of sight with a tonneau cover. Pretty much all covers made today are weather-resistant helping to protect your cargo from the sun, rain, and snow, all while helping it last longer.
If you’re looking for a roll up truck bed cover/tonneau cover, then you are interested in the conveniences and looks of your truck bed being covered up, but probably also want the cover to be versatile and easy to move away in case you need to put something bigger in the back of your pickup truck, like a dirt bike or lawn mower just to name a few items. With a roll up tonneau cover you can easily roll up the cover or retract the cover all the way forward towards the cab of your pickup truck exposing most of the bed with the exception of just a couple inches the tonneau cover takes up while rolled up.
Luckily for pickup truck owners there is no bed too big or too small for a tonneau cover, as there are several companies today selling covers for any truck you can think of that’s been made over the last several decades. Besides roll up tonneau covers, you can get retractable ones, folding covers, hard ones and even soft ones just to name the more popular types. Since I’ve been a pickup truck owner since the age of 16, I have had many different models of trucks with several different sized beds and have used many types of tonneau covers over the years. With my experience I will talk about the best roll up tonneau covers currently available that won’t break the bank, all while helping you make the right decision for your pickup truck and individual needs.
Reference the table of contents to help navigate ahead to an area of interest.
Things to Consider before buying a Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Since there is many different types of truck be covers on the market today, it can causes some confusion for those buying a truck bed cover and because of these it’s important to know each ones special features to see if it’s the right one for you to buy. All the while its important to also consider how these different covers work, how they are made, what their cost and durability levels are along with ease of installation and so much more.
Since we’re talking about Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Covers here then you likely are looking for a cover that you can easily move out of the way when needing more access to your truck bed. However a roll up cover might not be the best choice for you and here’s why. If you’re need something stronger or more break in proof then a roll up won’t work since it’s made of vinyl and easily penetrable. Maybe if you live in a higher theft area you should consider a metal retractable tonneau cover which is lockable and nearly impossible to break into. Here we’ve reviewed the top 5 rated hard retractable tonneau covers. The following section we’ve briefly described the mains things that you should think about before buying roll up tonneau covers for your pickup truck.
How Roll Up Covers Work?
Roll up tonneau covers do just that, roll up. You simply unsecure the cover from the tonneau cover track or mounting brackets and roll the cover part up towards the cab of the truck. There it will take up around 5-6″ of space well rolled up against the cab.
The roll up cover is especially a good idea for you when you want to be able to quickly access the bed of your truck. Rolling up makes for an easy access feature so you can keep large objects out of the elements or if the larger items wont fit under the bed cover, you can roll up the cover and make space for that item within just second and without the help of anther person if need be.
Different Types of Roll Up Covers
The most common roll up bed tonneau cover is the basic soft vinyl bed cover. It easily rolls up kind if like a area rug would towards the cab of the truck where it’s secured out of the way.
There are also metal versions that feature several slat like strips of metal that are mated together in a number of ways. These too will roll up like an area rug would up towards the cab. However due to their metal construction they are not has flexible as vinyl causing them to take up more space when rolled up towards the cab giving you less accessible bed space. These are also quite a bit more
expensive, which makes them a bit less desirable. Not to mention at this cost you are close to that of the cost of retractable tonneau covers which are much more secure which might just make you want to spend a little more money for a much better tonneau cover.
Installation Requirements of Roll Up Covers
Most of the these roll up tonneau covers install just about as easy as regular vinyl bed covers do. Usually you just need to latch down the tracking system and the covers snap into place more or less. Installation is usually no more than 20 minutes with just a couple of hand tools at most required, but in some cases you need to do some drilling. Just remember to pick the right cover for your truck bed size and installation should be a breeze for just about anybody.
Maintenance of Roll Up Tonneau Covers
Most people probably do not care for their vinyl tonneau covers correctly and since most roll up covers are made of vinyl it is very important to know proper maintenance techniques. Most people while washing their truck bed cover use the same chemical or soap on their covers as they do the paint and/or tires and wheels and this is wrong. Most of these chemicals and soaps that are made for the rest of the vehicle are petroleum based. Petroleum is very bad for the vinyl material, which most roll up tonneau covers are made of vinyl. In many cases if you are not caring for your cover properly with the right cleaning product you will void the manufactures warranty of the entire tonneau cover. Petroleum will break down the vinyl causing it to fade, crack and eventually causing it to tare. Learn more about proper maintenance techniques of vinyl truck bed covers by checking out our how to article here.
Pickup Truck Bed Size
Since not all pickup truck beds are made at the same size this can be the one biggest hindrances to purchasing a roll up tonneau cover for many people. Since it can be difficult to find a model within your budget and expectations that it’ll perfectly fit your vehicle, people can sometimes be discouraged from purchasing a cover altogether and often times even purchase the wrong one by mistake.
It is always important to keep in mind that there are many standard sizes that truck beds come in along with some others. Some of the most common sizes are 8’, 6.5’, 5.8’, and 5.5’. If you have a truck bed which is right around this measurement, you will be able to find a tonneau cover rather easily using the products presented below. But if not don’t worry because there are some companies out there making the “specialty” sizes too.
Top 10 Pickup Truck Bed Tonneau Covers
|
Ranking |
Image |
Product |
Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Read The Full Review |
 |
TruXedo Lo Pro Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | (4.8 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
| 2. Read The Full Review |
 |
Extang Express Tonno Roll-up Truck Bed Cover | (4.8 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
| 3. Read The Full Review |
 |
Access Lorado Low Profile Roll-Up Tonneau Cover | (4.7 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
| 4. Read The Full Review |
 |
TruXedo Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover |  (4.6 / 5)View Now On Amazon |
| 5. Read The Full Review |
 |
Extang Revolution Roll-Up Tonneau Cover | (4.6 / 5) View Now On Amazon |
TruXedo Lo Pro Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Consumer Ratings (4.8 / 5)
The TruXedo Lo Pro is currently the #1 selling roll up truck bed tonneau cover in North America and as you can see from consumer ratings, it’s also the highest rated one. It’s sleek low profile design is a nice upgrade to any pickup truck. The cover only comes up 3/4″ from the top of the bed rails. The Lo Pro mounted inside of the bed rails which provides full access to the stake pocket holes which allows you to use the cover with other accessories without any modifications required.
The TruXedo Lo-Pro Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover is Made in the USA!
Truck owners with TruXedo tonneau covers say the truck bed covers will last the life of the truck.
It’s made of a heavy duty industrial strength leather grain fabric material that’ll last for years and the cover features Truxedo’s patented automatic tension control which helps keep the cover looking great no matter the weather conditions. TruXedo’s Lo Pro Roll Up Bed cover comes with a Lifetime Warranty which covers everything, even the fabric!
Features
- 10-15 minute Installation with minimal tools required
- Quick-Release System – The entire cover can be removed in seconds, without tools, providing true 100% full bed access.
- Automatic Tension Control Keeps Cover Tight
- Lifetime Warranty Covers Everything Even Fabric
- Low Profile Design Improves Gas Mileage
- Anodized single trigger latch requires only one finger to open the cover
- Patented Velcro Brand Side Sealing System
- Signature, low-profile design allows the cover to sit only 3/4″ above the truck bed
- Trouble-free installation and use – no drilling or special tools required!
Use Truxedo’s Tonneau Cover Cleaner to avoid, voiding the warranty.
What Trucks Does TruXedo Lo Pro Roll Up Bed Cover fit?
We’re only going to do this list for Lo Pro since it’s the best selling and highest rated roll-up bed cover to show you that these covers are available for most trucks still around today.
- 1967-1972 GM Full Size
- 1973-1987 GM Full Size C/K
- 1988-2000 GM Full Size C/K
- 1999-2007 GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- 1999-2007 GM Full Size Stepside Bed
- 2002-2013 Chevrolet Avalanche
- 2007-2013 GM Dually 2500/3500
- 2014 GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado 1500/2500/3500
- 2015-2019 GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500
- 2019 GMC Sierra & Chevrolet Silverado 1500 New Body Style
- 2009-2010 Hummer H3T5
- 2015-2019 GMC Canyon & Chevrolet Colorado
- 1982-1993 GMC Sonoma & Chevrolet S-10
- 1994-2004 GMC Sonoma & Chevrolet S-10
- 1996-2001 Isuzu Hombre
- 2006-2008 Isuzu Extended & Crew Cab
- 2006-2008 Mitsubishi Raider
- 2002 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
- 2006-2008 Dodge Ram Mega Cab
- 2009-2018 Dodge Ram 1500/2500/3500
- 2010-2018 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
- 2019 Dodge Ram 1500 New Body Style
- 1987-1996 Dodge Dakota
- 1997-2004 Dodge Dakota
- 2008-2011 Dodge Dakota
- 2001-2006 Toyota Tundra
- 2003-2006 Toyota Tundra Stepside
- 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra
- 1995-2004 Toyota Tacoma
- 2001-2004 Toyota Tacoma
- 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma
- 2016-2019 Toyota Tacoma
- 1986-1997 Nissan Regular Cab
- 2004-2015 Nissan Titan
- 2016-2019 Nissan Titan
- 2005-2018 Nissan Navara
- 2005-2016 Honda Ridgeline
- 2017-2019 Honda Ridgeline
- 1973-1996 Ford F-150/F-250/F-350
- 1999-2007 Ford F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty
- 2001-2003 Ford F-150
- 2004-2008 Ford Full Size
- 2008-2016 Ford F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty
- 2009-2014 Ford F-150 Raptor
- 2009-2014 Ford F-150
- 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Raptor
- 2015-2019 Ford F-150
- 2017-2019 Ford F-250/F-350/F-450 Super Duty
- 2001-2006 Ford Explorer Sport Trac
- 2005-2008 Lincoln Mark LT
How to Install TruXedo Lo Pro Roll Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
What Consumers Say about their TruXedo Lo-Pro Roll Up Bed Covers
- I had one on my last truck and didn’t hesitate to buy one on my new one. I like their quality, convenience, and functionality. Biggest issue is it made my tailgate really hard to close. Took a few weeks before the squishy gasket on the end flattened and softened enough to close more like normal. Other than that, sometimes it takes me a couple tries to roll it up tight enough to get the band to go around and hold it rolled up.
- I have had Tonneau covers on every truck I have owned. The Lo Pro is just so well designed. It goes on easy, looks amazing and keeps your bed protected from the elements. This particular design is perfect for adding bed rails as it does not cover your bed caps. Oh and its easy to install with one person … took me about 15 minutes.
- This is one of the best looking Tonneau covers I have ever seen or owned. The quality of the material will last a life time. This TruXedo Lo Pro makes my new Silverado look like a million bucks.
Summary
The TruXedo Lo-Pro Roll Up Tonneau Cover has been purchased by tens of thousands of truck owners across the country with tens of thousands of it’s owners rating this roll up cover to be the best one currently on the market today. You really can’t go wrong with this cover, as it’s quality and lifetime warranty make it a really great value. Sure their are cheaper options out there, but this one is currently the best one you can buy if you’re looking for a soft roll up truck bed cover.
View TruXedo LoPro Covers on Amazon Now
Extang Express Tonno Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Consumer Ratings (4.8 / 5)
The Extang brand has been around since 1982 making quality tonneau covers for pickup trucks right here in the USA! The Extang Express roll-up cover off some unique features and give you fast and easy truck bed access. These are made of vinyl and feature a quick release latch that you can use with just the touch of one finger.
The anodized aluminum frame and support bows make for a lightweight durable construction allowing the bows and cover to roll up together so you can quickly access the truck bed. The tapered edges along the cover make for a seamless hook and loop type sealing systems that is sewn right into the tarp. This help keep out most of the moisture and all dirt from entering into the truck bed. Along with this, the automatic tension system helps keep the tonneau cover tight on the truck bed. This system is much like the above mentioned TruXedo Lo-Pro.
Installation is very simple with the Extang Express roll-up cover using fast and easy to use clamps. There is no drilling or measuring required, all you need to do is match up the clamps with the holes and them onto the bed flange. All the tools that needed to complete the installation are included with the cover from Extang. The Express roll-up soft cover is covered by a limited lifetime warranty and is made in the USA.
Although the Extang brand is overall one of the best selling truck bed covers in the country, it’s not quite as popular in the Roll-up truck bed cover category, but that doesn’t mean it’s quality doesn’t stand up to it’s competition, in fact it’s safe to say that the Express Roll-up is nearly identical to that of the TruXedo Lo-Pro Roll-up and they are around the same price as well. However Extang doesn’t offer as many models which unfortunately leaves out many pickup truck owners.
Features
- Cover constructed of premium grade vinyl
- Anodized aluminum frame and bows
- No-drill installation
- Full bed access available
- Self-adjusting tension control system
- Seamless hook and loop side sealing system
- Support bows roll up with tarp
- One-finger quick release for easy opening & closing
- Covers your stake pockets for better sealing
- Buckle straps hold cover in open position while driving
- Lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA – Ann Arbor, MI
What Consumers Say about their Extang Express Roll-up Tonneau Covers
- This is my third Extang product. They have a great product and stand by it. The Express goes over the rails and doesn’t obstruct the bed like in the rail covers — a big reason why I chose the Express. It installed in 20 mins with one person. One adjustment at the tailgate to straight out the tonneau and I was on my way. This product looks great and is one that has cross members in it to withstand New England winters. I would recommend any of the Extang products.
- Took about 15-20 minutes to install. Very easy. I did have to pull the cover a little be to one side after installing because the cover slides on the front and rear bar it’s attached to. But once I centered it, it has not moved. The reason I gave 4 stars on the appearance is only because while driving at highway speed the cover does vibrate in the wind (Does not cause any noise though). This is probably because the hook and loop doesn’t hold the cover quite as tight as a snap on and also because it has straight bars instead of bowed bars. But I think the straight, flat look of the cover looks better than the bowed covers. Also, the flat design does caused some water to build up when rained on. Not a big deal to me. Rolling the cover open and closed is very easy and takes up no space at the front of the bed, which is great because I need to fit my dirt bike all the way into the front corner. Also, very nice that you do not have to removed the bars like some covers.
- This Tonneau cover fits well and was easy to install on Tacoma 2003. It looks great and stays tight. It was shipped when they said it would and arrived the day they said it would. The tracking was also very easy to use. Had basic questions answered via online Chat session and the staff was very helpful.
Summary
Although the Extang Express Roll-up isn’t quite as popular as the best selling roll-up cover, it’s quality is right there with it and they are even nearly the same price. It’s really up to you to choose from one or the other, maybe based on what you’ve heard about them from you friends or what your past experiences might be.
View Extang Express Roll-up Covers on Amazon Now
Access Lorado Low Profile Roll-Up Tonneau Cover
Consumer Ratings (4.7 / 5)
The Access Lorado Lo Profile Roll-Up Tonneau Cover is another great option and it compliments any truck with it’s low profile sleek contours.
There is a unique feature in it’s self and that’s the AutoLatch patented system which automatically locks the bed cover when it closes. Along with the auto lock feature the cover adds even more security with it’s side lock and “Tight Bite” clamps. The clamps have special “teeth” which help maintain strong grip to keep the bed cover secured down in place.
This cover is backed by Premium Cover lifetime warranty which covers all components and fabric.
Features
- Designed to protect the truck bed from water, snow and dust
- Premium storage straps keep the rolled tarp safe and secure behind the cab for hauling large loads
- Made from heavy duty material for long lasting durability
- Features handy tension adjuster that fine-tunes the cover tension with the turn of a dial
- The Lorado Tonneau Cover employs a premium vinyl tarp that’s double-coated, polyester-infused and UV-protected to stay flexible in the winter and tough in the summer-from 40°F below to over 110°F
- Easy installation and no drilling required
- Limited Lifetime Warranty on all components
- No need to remove – Stores neatly behind the cab
- Automatically locks when fully closed or open
- Made in the USA
What Consumers say about their Access Lorado Low-Profile Tonneau Cover
- I bought this Access cover because I had one on my previous truck (2004)and was impressed by its quality, durability, ease of use and installation. I can comment on the quality, easy installation and use of my new cover and am hoping that I will find the durability to be the same or better than my previous one.
- The Access Lorado is the best tonneau cover out there. After researching other tonneau covers, I chose the Lorado for its ease of use and installation, quality and lifetime warranty. This is the second Access brand cover I have purchased and would continue to buy their products. Also, made in the USA.
- The Tonneau bed cover looks great with it’s low profile design. It is very functional and easy to use besides looking sleek. Installation was easy once I had the stake holes cut out. I found the Roto-Zip tool to be the fastest and easiest way to make the cut outs for the stake holes on my 2014 Ford Lariat Supercrew bed. I had seen that tip in someone else’s review. It worked very well! I would recommend this cover to anyone looking for a Tonneau cover.
- Installation was easy once I realized everything that needed to be done. Make sure the rails are on the correct side to start. They are labeled. Clamp system was easy to install. Make sure the rails are slightly higher than the tailgate so it doesn’t hit while closing. Cover seems durable. Looks nice and stays tight. Velcro seems strong and rolling it on and off is easy. Two straps to keep it rolled up is a nice feature.
Summary
The Access Lorado is another great soft roll-up tonneau cover option to cover up your truck bed. Although it isn’t as popular as some of the others we’ve talked about, it’s line priced and a good quality roll up bed cover. The warranty is competitive and it’s made in the USA, like the others, you really can’t go wrong with a Access Tonneau Cover.
View Access Lorado Roll Up Tonneau Covers on Amazon
TruXedo TruXport Soft Roll-up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Consumer Ratings (4.6 / 5)
TruXedo makes awesome tonneau covers and the TruXport is yet another very well designed attractive soft roll-up truck bed cover that has a price with anyone’s budget in mind. It’s simple to use and easy to install. Pre-set tension control helps maintain a great tight look all year round no matter what the climate is like.
TruXport features dual paddle latches that are easily accessed from both sides at the rear of the truck. These latches are securely fasten to the tailgate rail in a locked position when the cover is closed. This keeps the soft tonneau cover locked down and stops it from flapping around while driving at highway speeds.
Features
- TruXport is a affordable solution for those looking for a quality roll-up cover
- Easy dual latch system single person design at the tailgate allows for quick release and roll up while maintaining security
- Automatic tension control requires no adjusting to keep the cover tight and taut
- Adds a sleek appearance on any truck while improving gas milage
- Simple clamp-on rails and headers requiring no drilling or cutting
- Easy installation in as little as 20 minutes
- Industrial strength Velcro attaches the cover to the rails keeping it tight to the truck bed
- Cover sits 1.5″ above the truck be
- Quality leather grain fabric to help protect your cargo from the harshest of elements
- The Truxport has a 5 year warranty for manufactures defects for the original owner of the cover
- Made in the USA
Use Truxedo’s Tonneau Cover Cleaner to avoid, voiding the warranty.
What Consumers Say about their TruXport Tonneau Covers
- For the price & usage this was a perfect bargain.
- My second product from this manufacturer. Went on easy and looks real good on the truck. Would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a truck bed cover.
- Overall it seems like a great product. Took twenty minutes to fully install and it looks great. My only “negative” feedback would be that the cross piece that you flip down to latch in the back seems a little flimsy. It seems if you pressed to hard towards the middle instead of the outside corners to latch it down, it wouldn’t take much to bend/ break it. I’ve got about 3000 miles under mine and no issues so far.
- The cover was a little fussy to install – we needed to re-position it to get the proper coverage over the top of the tailgate when closed, but some fine tuning is to be expected. The cover looks great, and just this morning I cleared more than a foot of snow off – no sagging and once dry looks perfect. Excellent product value.
View TruXedo LoPro Covers on Amazon Now
Extang Revolution Roll-Up Truck Bed Tonneau Cover
Consumer Ratings (4.6 / 5)
Extang has been making great tonneau covers for several decades and the Revolution Roll-Up is a high quality soft roll-up truck bed cover. Extang’s Revolution is engineered with a groundbreaking design to provide great protection through any type of weather.
The spring loaded support bows roll up within the vinyl cover which helps to provide a low-profile near flush fit against the the truck bed rails. The multi-directional tension system has been integrated to work weather the cover is tightly closed and rolled up again the cab.
Use Extang Tonno Tonic Tonneau Cover cleaner to avoid, voiding the warranty.
Features
- With no snaps or hook & loop fasteners provides a near flush fit
- Multi-directional tension keeps tarp tight in any climate
- Revolutionary bow design provides horizontal tarp tension and conveniently rolls up with tarp
- Easy clamp placement and installation requires no drilling
- Stow your cargo under the cover, or roll up for full bed access
- Made in the USA
What Consumers Say about their TruXport Tonneau Covers
- My 3rd Extang. Cover best cover ever
-
I bought this cover for my 2011 Ram 1500 Sport. Packaging was great, installation instructions clear and easy to understand. Had it installed in 20 minutes. I love it! This is my second Extang cover. Great warranty and customer service.
- I had one of these covers on my super duty and had to have one for this truck as well.
- We had the same cover on a 2009 Ranger, which held up really well and was easy to open and close. Also had the classic cover on a 98 F-150 for 15 years
- Installation was easy, a little bit better instructions may be helpful to those not as handy. Some steps could be more clear, like where to put the slide lock. Overall, very happy with the appearance and the tension of the canopy.
-
Nice cover, my first tonneau. Wanted a roll up to clear my 5th wheel hitch. Didn’t really want the velcro style. This does roll up a little larger due to the extra cross bracing. Gave 4 stars due to not having a single handed latch mechanism.
View Extang Revolution Covers on Amazon Now
Final Verdict
While all ten of these roll up tonneau covers are less than half a star rating apart, some of them do have some special features to consider before choosing which one is right for you. Weather it be warranty, price, durability and fitment any one of these ten roll up tonneau covers will perform well.
The post Best Roll Up Tonneau Cover – Top 5 Reviewed in 2021 first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>Look for a gift that’ll make their lives on the road more relaxed and more enjoyable. Their trips don’t have to be devoid of comfort; neither do they have to always put up with loneliness. If you’re without an idea of what makes an excellent gift, look at some of these ideas to get you started.
Gift Ideas for Truck Drivers
1. Personalized Pocket Watch
Pocket watches might sound like an outdated idea, but they’re making a comeback. They’re a representation of style and personality. Moreover, nothing could be better than adding a personal touch to the gift to match the driver’s personality.
Online marketplaces have a variety of pocket watches to offer. You can find one for every personality, style, or fashion sense. The secret is to search wide and open your mind to the possibilities of finding more than just traditional pocket watches.
View Pocket Watches on Amazon Now
2. Season Gloves
The life of a truck driver is involved with a lot of adventure, and gloves could come in handy. For truck drivers who spend considerable time loading goods, a pair of gloves will help protect their hands. Look for ones with a heavy-duty build and with insulation and waterproofing qualities.
A good pair of gloves should also endure exposure to fire and ice without compromising their quality. If you can find some with ribbed cuffs, they’ll be useful in keeping hands away from harm’s way.
View Seasonal Gloves on Amazon Now
3. Truck Route GPS
GPS gadgets come in many models, but one for a truck driver should be specific to his needs. You could look for a device that incorporates useful features for the driver. For example, does it have height clearance information, and does it identify routes prohibited for trucks?
The best gadget should also have updated maps. It should strive to make the driving experience as smooth as possible. Additional features include being able to enter truck information like gross vehicle weight and height.
A GPS device or an app on a smartphone can significantly reduce the time it takes to reach a destination. A driver is relieved of the uncertainty of their route and also helps them find the nearest services.
View Truck Route GPS on Amazon Now
4. Mobile Foam Mattress
Most truck drivers don’t have the luxury of an overnight stay in a roadside hotel. In other situations, it could be that there’s no accommodation available on their route. In such circumstances, drivers often end up sleeping in their truck cabs.
A high-density foam mattress would be the perfect gift for such a driver. Look for one that can easily fit in the cab and is easy to fold away. Foam tends to get hot and will, therefore, keep the driver warm on those chilly nights when they have to sleep in the truck.
It may be challenging to determine what would pass as a good and comfortable mattress. In such a situation, consider gifting the driver a gift card from a manufacturer. With the card, they can purchase exactly what fits them best.
While looking for a mattress, consider pairing it up with an electric blanket. They’re available in various sizes and designs. Be sure to look for one with a long cable, so there’s no struggle of plugging it into an outlet.
View Mobile Foam Mattresses on Amazon Now
5. Orthopedic Seat Cushion
Spending long hours driving can cause pressure and pain on the back, bottom, and bones. The best gift to help relieve that pain would be a seat cushion. Sitting on a seat endowed with a high-quality cushion prevents the driver from sinking in and assuming an uncomfortable posture.
Seat cushions for truck drivers are in endless models. The best one should be made of gel or foam or a combination of both. Gel pads are effective in resisting heat, while foam resists the pressure of prolonged use.
Look for a cushion approved for use by orthopedics. Such is more effective in holding the user’s weight and providing back support.
View Orthopedic Seat Cushions on Amazon Now
6. Tactical Multi-Tool Wallet
Truck drivers have active lifestyles, and tactical wallets only serve to enhance them. They offer a lot of utility as they hold more than just cash and cards. Every single inch of space is useful in providing storage for something.
They can be used to hold bottle openers, a pocket knife, and blades while offering RFID-blocking technology for your cards. They come in a slim profile and lightweight design that helps compress everything in there. The user can carry everything they need to get themselves out of a sticky situation.
View Tactical Multi-Tool Wallets on Amazon Now
7. Personalized Shaving Kit
It’s not uncommon for truck drivers to have little or no time for proper grooming. Why not give them a little motivation with a personalized shaving kit? With a portable grooming kit, they can take the time they have during a stopover to work on their looks.
Personalize the gift by ensuring everything in the kit resonates with the driver’s preferences. Take this idea further by getting a fully stocked shower kit. Include a quick-dry towel and shower shoes.
View Personalized Shaving Kits on Amazon Now
8. Satellite Radio and Antenna
The road can become long, boring, and lonely for a truck driver. Consider gifting them with satellite radio. Radio stations tend to come and go out of tune quickly.
Satellite radio will keep them occupied for longer. Alternatively, gift them an audiobook so they can listen to recordings, leadership books, novels, or anything they like. A subscription to an audiobook service will let them choose the books they like most.
View Satellite Radio and Antennas on Amazon Now
Final Thoughts
A truck driver’s time on the road is sometimes very lonely, as they spend a lot of time away from home. You can make their job easier by gifting them with something that’ll light up their day. Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be hard if you know what they need in their day-to-day life.
You are less likely to go wrong with everyday items that they use at home. Think along the lines of the above best gifts for truck drivers and find one that suits them perfectly.
The post 8 Best Gifts for Truck Drivers first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>Truck security points to the tonneau cover, an accessory that shouldn’t be an afterthought. The cover is essential in casing any valuable stuff you might be hauling on the truck bed. It also enhances the aerodynamics of the vehicle, cutting down on the turbulence caused by wind as you drive.
Even without cargo on the truck bed, you don’t want to leave it exposed to weather elements. Allowing rain and snow to pour on the truck bed will cause your tools to rust.
The next question is to determine the kind of tonneau cover that will best suit your needs. The covers come in two main types, hard-top and soft-top. Each has a varying degree of convenience and durability.
So, when it comes to hard vs soft tonneau cover: which one to choose? If you’re looking for insights into how to choose the best type, keep reading.
Hard Tonneau Covers
Hard tonneau cover varieties are built with metal, fiberglass materials, or hard plastic. They’re more sturdy and reliable than soft ones. They also come with several advantages.
Better Security
One of the things you want your cover to do is lock securely on the edges of the truck. Hard covers are thought to be more secure. Since they are made from a hard material, it’s harder for a wrongdoer to cut through the cover.
Customized
It’s easier to customize a hard tonneau cover than a soft one. This is because soft covers are generally readily available in a back color. With hard covers, you can have them custom-made and coated with the color of our choice.
This comes in handy when you want to control your vehicle’s appearance. You can have the cover customized to match your truck’s body color.
However, hard tonneau covers are not all bliss and have their shortcomings.
Expensive
It’s always a hard task to find a good quality hard tonneau on a low budget. Most of them cost anything from $500, and the price can be as high as $2,500 for upgraded models. The high cost is always worth it if you’re really concerned about the safety of your tools and cargo.
Heavy
While hard covers are durable, it’s only because they have a lot of weight. This excess weight affects the fuel economy of your truck, causing it to consume more. Furthermore, heavy hard covers are also not as easy to open as soft tonneau covers.
With some models, you’ll require gas-powered struts to get them open. Others will rely on doubled-up manpower input.
Don’t Always Fit
Hard tonneau covers tend to leave spaces in the truck bed. This can be problematic when you’re transporting expensive equipment as it can attract would-be thieves. They may also not adequately safeguard your stuff against the weather.
If you’re to carry an oversized load, hard covers may not work well. You’ll be required to remove them to accommodate the cargo. That incapacitates your truck and can be a turn-off.
Soft Tonneau Covers
Soft truck covers are usually made from polyester, canvas, or vinyl. They mostly come in a black color and may be hard to customize. The materials are durable and are able to protect the components in your truck adequately.
They also offer other benefits.
Affordable
Soft covers are easier to acquire as they don’t require a huge financial investment. Most come at a price as low as $190 but can go as high as $800. The difference in cost has to do with factors like size and quality.
Easy to Operate
Soft tonneau covers are easy to operate because they’re light. Some can be open, closed, or rolled up with a touch of a button. They’re thus ideal for people who don’t want to keep lifting the cover to access the truck bed.
Good Fit
Soft covers are generally large and fit well. Their flexibility also allows you to conveniently carry oversize cargo and be able to cover it adequately. The importance of a cover that fits well can’t be overemphasized where security is concerned.
Have a Smooth Look
Once fitted over the truck bed, soft tonneau covers tend to have a more even look than hard ones. Since they’re not textured, they complement the overall appearance with much ease.
However, soft truck covers are not without fault. They don’t last as long as hard covers and are also less secure. It’s easier for someone to cut through the material and get away with your cargo or valuables.
Which is Better: Hard or Soft Tonneau Cover?
Despite the differences between hard and soft tonneau covers, they also have several similarities. They are both excellent aftermarket additions to your truck to enhance security. They also both cover reasonably well and are easy to maintain.
There’s no right or wrong choice between hard and soft tonneau covers. They both serve the same purpose, but what you choose should be determined by your budget, needs and preference, and usage. For example, if the cover is only to accessorize the truck and not for security purposes, the soft type is better.
Final Thoughts
Tonneau covers serve to streamline the truck bed by making it more aesthetically appealing. They also increase fuel efficiency by allowing air to slide off the truck instead of creating a drag in the bed. The covers come in soft and hard models, with each delivering its set of pros and cons.
Choosing a tonneau is a combination of factors like aesthetics, price, size, and security level. Soft covers are cheaper, easier to cover the whole truck bed, and easier to use and operate. However, the security they offer can easily be compromised.
Hard covers are expensive and hard to operate, but they have the best security level. Whichever type you choose, ensure it complements your truck’s overall look and is flexible enough for your needs.
The post Hard vs Soft Tonneau Cover: Which One to Choose? first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>A good cushion will save you from health issues that emanate from prolonged sitting like heart disease and varicose veins. Before you rush out to look for a seat cushion for your truck, understand that all of them are not made equal. So, you need to take into account several considerations while shopping for one.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Seat Cushion
How well a pillow supports and makes you comfortable depends on several factors, including the materials that make it. You’ll come across memory foam, polymers, and bead cushions, and figuring out which is the best can be challenging.
Other factors to look at are how well they support your back and reduce pressure on your spinal discs. The best seat cushion should support you for hours without collapsing under your weigh.
Remember also to check its durability, breathability, size, ergonomic design, and fabric. This is where this review comes in, to help narrow down your options in search of the best seat cushion.
Comparison Chart
Best Seat Cushions for Truck Drivers Review
Whatever material you choose for your seat cushion, the most important thing is that it provides much-needed support. Look at some of the top picks and what truck drivers like about them.
1. CONFORMAX Anywhere, Anytime Gel Seat Cushion
The CONFORMAX cushion has a generous size of 18” by 20” by 14.” It’s also available in another 20” by 20” by 20″ for drivers who want more cushion space.
Review
The CONFORMAX seat cushion is made in the USA and provides better comfort because of the gel-foam technology behind it. The combination of gel and foam makes it firmer than when gel or foam is used alone.
It delivers low-profile comfort and doesn’t elevate you up high out of your driving position. The cushion is fitted with ½” of ultrasound viscoelastic Ultragel directly into the Ultravis foam. This combination guarantees you perfect conformity to your anatomy for pain-free sitting.
Shock Absorbance
The CONFORMAX cushion is designed to absorb the shock caused by road and vehicle vibrations. This makes it perfect in reducing the fatigue that comes with long-distance driving.
Its durable and removable zippered cover has a conformable top surface. The bottom has a non-slip friction grip that makes it stay in position on bumpy rides. This prevents you from slipping out of position while driving.
The cover is also spill-proof and waterproof and is easy to wash. Air-dry it after washing to avoid tampering with its quality. Unfortunately, the cover is only available in black.
Pros
- Made from a combination of gel and foam for enhanced support
- The cover is spill-proof and doesn’t stain
- Delivers low-profile comfort without affecting your driving position
- High-quality cushion built to last and gives value for money
- Retains its shape and doesn’t move out of its position on bumpy rides
Cons
- Not for people on a budget
- The combination of gel and foam makes it a little bit heavy for some users
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2. Big Ant Breathable Seat Cushion
The Big Ant cushion is designed to protect you from intense heat while you drive. This is why it’s made with a breathable material that also prevents your seat from fading or cracking.
Review
The Big Ant cushion is a large pillow measuring 44.5” by 19.7” and provides a generous amount of sitting space. It’s made with an attractive leather outer cover that makes your seat look beautiful. The material provides excellent air permeability and is designed to suit different personalities.
The bottom side of the cover is enhanced with natural and efficient non-slip rubber. This prevents the cushion from falling off the seat and slipping out of position. It also comes with two plastic chucks that hold on to the back seat.
It has two metal hooks that attach under the seat for more stability. The cushion also has your storage needs taken care of by the front pockets. Here, you can put your mobile phone and wallet and easily access them when you need them.
Compression
The Big Ant seat cushion has strong compression resistance to ensure you don’t sink into the seat. No matter how long you sit on this cushion, you won’t feel it compresses into thinness.
Before buying the pillow though, check whether it’s compatible with your truck seat. It tends to cover the seat belt lock in some vehicles, which is not allowed by law.
Pros
- The cushion comes with a front pocket where you can place your phone and other small accessories
- Made from a PU leather that looks attractive and allows breathability
- Provides firm compression and is wear-resistant
- The cover is stain-resistant and easy to clean
- Comes with hooks to help attach under the seat to keep it in position
Cons
- The cover is not heat-resistant as advertised
- The upper side is non-slip, but the bottom one slides off position
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3. Kingphenix Car Seat Cushion
The Kingphenix cushion not only supports you but also protects your seat from wear and tear. It’s made with a breathable fabric and contains polymer memory foam and non-slip silicone gel. The thickness is just right to help reduce pressure on your bottom while preventing you from sinking into the seat.
Review
This cushion is made with the understanding that truck drivers spend most of their time sitting behind the wheel. This is why its maker places a high priority on every detail of the pillow for a high-quality experience. The silicone gel, for example, has a non-slip design that effectively holds the cushion in position.
Material
The Kingphenix cushion is made from a combination of breathable materials. These are polymer memory foam and silicone gel. The dimensions of the cushion are 21.6” by 18.5” by 18” which is large enough to fit in most seats.
The cover is mostly available in black, a color that makes the pillow heat resistant. Cleaning it is easy, and it dries fast. It also adopts a lightweight design for ease of removal and installation.
Its soft and smooth texture makes it easy to wipe and is resistant to stains. When not using it for your truck seat, you can use it for a variety of other purposes.
Quality
The cushion is made from imported memory foam that evenly distributes body weight. It’s highly effective in dispersing pressure and retaining its firmness after long-term use.
You’ll like this pillow for the exquisite craft applied in its making. The seams are tightly stitched and the lines are smooth and full. Every detail of the cushion, from the cutting to the stitching, is a reflection of a professional approach.
Other factors that add to the high quality of this cushion include the combination of materials. The silicone gel provides an anti-slip design, while the high-density memory foam reduces pressure on the coccyx. The fabric is durable, breathable, and ideal for use in all four seasons.
Pros
- The cushion is made with a high level of professionalism
- Provides excellent body support and comfort
- Versatile enough to be used in different types of cars
- Easily conforms to the shape of your body and reduces pressure on the coccyx
- Quite breathable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean and dry
Cons
- The back of the cushion is about two inches shorter than some people would like it
- It would do well with some Velcro straps to secure it firmly in place
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4. Sojoy iGelComfort Enhanced Gel Seat Cushion
The Sojoy cushion comes with some unmatched features for the ultimate comfort and support. The gel-foam technology behind its making guarantees relief from lower back pain and sciatica.
Review
The Sojoy iGelComfort cushion is a favorite not only among truck drivers but several other users as well. It’s popularly used for support in offices, small cars, and while traveling. It’s associated with providing quick recovery from lower back problems, spinal issues, tailbone injuries, and herniated discs.
All this is because of its high-quality features. It is manufactured under the gel-foam technology that combines gel for comfort and foam for support. This qualifies it as the best seat cushion for truck drivers who badly need this support and comfort.
Design
The Sojoy cushion is made with a non-slip fabric at the bottom to prevent it from sliding as you get on or off the truck. It also remains in place when the ride is bumpy, especially on rough terrains. The machine-washable cover is high-quality, breathable, and stain-resistant.
Inside the cover is a cushion made of top gel memory foam. It’s a slim-profile cushion with all the ergonomic factors of a pillow taken into account. It provides comfort while reducing pressure on the tailbone, no matter how long you remain seated.
With this cushion, you’ll never have to endure the pain that comes with being in the same position for a long time. It’s also ideal for use in all seasons. The gel helps it cool down in hot seasons, while the foam helps retain heat from your body during winter.
Pros
- A highly versatile seat cushion that can be used for a variety of other applications
- Highly affordable
- The cover is water and spill-proof for ease of cleaning and quick drying
- It easily conforms to your body shape and effectively supports your weight
- Non-slip friction bottom that prevents sliding on surfaces
Cons
- The cushion comes smelling of foam and other chemicals used in its manufacture
- Flattens easily and takes a while to get back to shape hence not ideal for people with heavier weight
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5. Everlasting Comfort Car Seat Cushion
This cushion with an orthopedic U-cut-out design is the envy of many. It has a standard size, made from 100% memory foam, and comes in black.
Review
The Everlasting pillow is a thick memory foam product that molds well to accommodate your bottom. The U-shape design is for ergonomic purposes and is recommended by orthopedic surgeons. It’s known to alleviate the pain that comes from being in the same position for a long time.
It provides relief from the pain associated with the sciatic nerve, coccyx, lower back, arthritis, and hips. It’s also ideal for use post-surgery.
This is a portable cushion with a machine-washable cover. You can trust it to retain its high quality if the lifetime replacement guarantee is anything to go by. The high-quality materials ensure the cushion doesn’t slide off the seat or sink down from prolonged use.
You’ll find that the foam is comfortable, firm, supportive, and heat-resistant. Overall, it stays in good shape for long but may be too small for some people.
The company also cautions you to use the cushion with care. The non-slip rubber bottom may cause stains on lightly colored vinyl or leather materials. Ensure you wash the cover in hot soapy water before installing the cushion on your truck seat.
Pros
- The cushion comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee as proof of its high quality
- Has a non-slip rubber bottom that makes it stay in place
- The memory foam is useful in responding to heat and quickly conforms to your body shape
- Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of applications
- The design of the cushion is orthopedically approved and hence offers much-needed support
Cons
- The non-slip rubber bottom causes stains on leather and vinyl materials
- It’s a bit small for some people and takes time to spring back into shape after use
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Final Verdict
A truck driver should have a seat cushion to enhance support and comfort during long-distance trips. The best seat cushion for truck drivers helps ease back pain and reduces pressure on the tailbone. The market isn’t short of buffers that claim to be the most comfortable or the best for a particular purpose.
However, don’t buy blindly without knowing what each type has to offer. A few reliable brands like Everlasting Comfort, Big Ant, CONFORMAX, and Kingphenic will live up to their word. Take good care of your cushion by washing it regularly and following its instructions for use to prolong its lifespan.
The post Best Seat Cushion for Truck Drivers to Buy in 2021 first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>Finding the best dash cam for truckers can be overwhelming. Most of those on the market overpromise to do a good job, but in the real sense, they underperform. Some even lack essential features for proper coverage and viewing.
Comparison Chart
Best Dash Cam for Truckers Reviews
One of the features you want in a dashcam for your truck is ease of use. A camera that can be remotely connected to a smartphone will be easier to use and operate. This will allow you to change the settings on the fly, turn on the audio recording, or view videos.
It’s also advisable to have a dashcam with a wide lens angle. This gives you full video coverage of the road ahead. With a truck, you want a broader view compared to a typical car.
The size of the cam is also important. It’s advisable to go for a small and discreet gadget that can be tucked away without much notice to a third eye. Given these factors, among others, let’s now delve into some of the best dash cams for truckers.
Garmin Dash Cam 46
The Garmin Dash Cam is one of the few gadgets that come with all the desirable features. Despite being small and compact, it has a wide 140-degree field of view and captures accurate footages.
Review
This dashcam is designed to automatically record and save videos of incidents as they happen. For increased storage, the cam supports an 8GB micro SD card, which doesn’t come included in the package. The auto-sync feature enables you to control and replay videos from up to four cameras.
Voice Control
The makers of the cam intended it for use across the globe. This explains why its voice control features allow for the use of a variety of languages. You can issue commands in English, German, Spanish, Italian, or French.
Through the voice control feature, you can easily save a picture or video, start or stop an audio, and record or pause the video capture feature.
Alerts
The Garmin Dash Cam comes with a feature that creates alerts for drivers. These include forward collision and lane departure warnings. However, some conditions may tamper with the warning function.
Some of the alert features can be updated as often as you deem fit. For example, the red light, speed, and location alerts are open to regular updates.
Package
The package includes a dashcam, a low profile magnetic mount, power cables, and a dual USB power adapter. There’s also a document with the camera description enclosed.
On the downside, the Garmin Dash Cam only has a front camera. Additionally, you need to check if its use is allowed in your jurisdiction as some states prohibit its use.
Pros
- The package comes with several accessories you won’t get in other dash cam packages
- Regular updates for some of the features like speed and location
- The cam creates alerts for the driver, for example when changing lanes
- Voice control features that make the cam a lot easier to use
- Has a slot for a micro SD card to increase the storage space
Cons
- Requires a micro SD card which doesn’t come included in the package
- It doesn’t have a rear camera
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VAVA VA-VD002 Dual Dash Cam
The VAVA Dual Dash Cam is one you’ll like as it comes with a front and rear camera. These two simultaneously capture the road in the front and at the back at 155 degrees and 126 degrees, respectively.
Review
The dual resolution of 1920 x 1080P provides for precise details. Alternatively, you can use the single front camera for crystal clear QHD at 2560 x 1440P video resolution.
When using the camera at night, night vision should be the least of your worries. The cam features a Sony sensor that improves low light sensitivity. This goes a long way to improve the quality of images taken in low light environments.
Furthermore, Image Signal Processing technology works to record clear and visible videos in any situation.
Apps
VAVA comes with built-in Wi-Fi and VAVA Dash APP available on Google or App store. These help you easily access the cam for configuration, live streaming, downloading, playback, and sharing of files. You can easily upload videos and images on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Recording
Upon starting the engine of the truck, the camera automatically activates its seamless loop recording. The recordings are saved in intervals of 1, 2, or 3 minutes with an auto-looping mechanism. The camera can support a micro SD card of up to 128GB, but it doesn’t come included in the package.
Design
The compact design of the camera makes it easy to install in a well-hidden place. Once installed, it operates at 14°F to 122°F. When using battery power, it operates between 32°F and 158°F.
Pros
- The micro SD card slot provides for up to 129GB of additional storage space
- Has a front and rear camera for increased visibility
- The high resolution allows for clear footages
- Small and compact design for easy and discreet installation
- The cam is automatically activated once the engine of the truck starts
Cons
- The rear camera is almost non-existent at night
- Not compatible with some micro SD card brands
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Z-EDGE T4 Touch Screen Dash Cam Front and Rear
Z-Edge is a 4.0” dual-cam ideal for truckers. Its compact size allows for one-hand operation. It features a 4-inch sensitive touch screen that makes it easy to operate.
Review
The thoughtfully-created and friendly interface makes each operation on the cam more responsive. Navigating the menu and settings, and locking the current video are some of the tasks you won’t have to struggle with.
Optimized Modes
You can automatically select the mode to use on the cam from the preset values. The selection automatically optimizes the features depending on the immediate environment. This saves you the time it takes to customize each setting individually.
Some of the settings available are Drive-Optimized for regular use and Scenic-Longer videos for easier post-processing. You can also choose the WDR mode for better light balancing, especially for nighttime driving. The Park G-Sensor sensitivity is best for monitoring your truck while parking.
Recording capabilities
The Z-Edge camera provides for simultaneous recording at the front and back of the truck. Both lenses operate at full HD 1080P. The single front camera delivers a crystal clear resolution of 2560 x 1440 when working alone.
It captures 155 degrees and brings to focus much of the road space you’re on. The 6-layer glass lens and powerful imaging processor provide for more detailed shots and footage. For easy and clear playback, you can trust the PIP mode to deliver seamlessly.
Night Vision
The WDR technology behind this Z-Edge camera compensates for light or dark spots and helps balance exposure. This works to prevent overexposure during the day and prevent blurry images at night.
The Wide Dynamic Range feature also helps restore the real colors of objects for a fuller picture. When driving at night, you can trust the camera to capture car license plates clearly. It can support a micro SD card of up to 256GB.
Automatic Safeguards
The cam will automatically start recording when you switch on the vehicle ignition. It also switches off automatically with the ignition off.
The LCD is designed with an energy-saving timer. Other automatic controls are a loop recording feature that improves the efficiency of the storage of the footage.
You can manually or automatically protect your videos from deletion. The built-in G-sensor or accelerometer triggers crash vibration recording where the terrain is rough.
Pros
- The camera has a capacity of storage for up to 256GB
- Comes with several automatic features that start and stop depending on the status of the engine
- WDR technology enhances night vision for clear footage
- The 6-layer glass lens doesn’t break easily and features a powerful imaging processor
- The 4-inch touch screen allows for one-hand operation and features elegant icons for ease of navigation
Cons
- The adhesive mount for the rear camera is too strong and doesn’t come off when you need to remove it
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Vantrue N2 Pro Uber Dual Dash Cam
The Vantrue Dual Dash Cam comes with several excellent features that enhance how you record footage and general road views. The features include a motion sensor, dual camera, and high resolution.
Review
When working in the dual-mode, the Vantrue Dual Dash Cam has a resolution of 1920 x 1080P. The single front cam delivers 2560 x 1440P resolution, recording at 140 degrees. You can also capture car license plates at a resolution of 1920 x 1080P.
The camera’s system is based on the powerful Novatek NT96660 CPU and advanced Sony Exmore IMX323 sensor. The front car camera is based on OV4689 to capture the road ahead.
Infrared Night Vision
The rear camera operates on a Sony IMX323 sensor that excellently captures video footage even in low light conditions. The front-facing cam has a 1.8 6-layer glass lens and a unique HDR video system that balances the light automatically.
It also features a 24-hour motion activated parking mode. This makes the camera to start recording automatically upon detecting motion. It also starts recording automatically when the ignition sparks up.
Seamless Loop Recording
The Vantrue comes with a built-in microphone for excellent audio recording. Its auto LCD off time helps prevent distraction by the windshield. The cam can comfortably be used in temperatures between -4°F and 158°F.
The G-sensor and optional GPS provide for seamless loop recording that overwrites the oldest footages. This happens when the card is full. The variable sensitivity sensor can also automatically detect a sudden collision and emergency-locks the video to the “Event File” section.
Pros
- A dual dash cam worth its price for all the excellent features
- It records seamlessly and detects a sudden collision, automatically saving the already recorded video
- Supports a micro SD card of up to 256GB
- Provides for unique night vision with the infrared technological capabilities
- Highly reliable due to the advanced NOVATEK NT96660 process coupled with Sony Starvis CMOS
Cons
- Not compatible with some types of Micro SD cards like Sandisk
- The price is on the high-end scale compared to others on the list
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Campark DC10 Dash Cam
Unlike most of the other previously reviewed dash cams, the Campark has a broader view. At 170 degrees, it gives you a better view, especially at night. Its price is also a lot more friendly than most of its counterparts.
Review
Campark comes with a super HD video resolution that delivers clearer images and videos even at high speeds. With the WDR, HDR, and matching F1.8 wide apertures, you won’t need auxiliary light at night for precise images.
The dashcam automatically powers on to record and save files when the engine starts. When it detects any form of shock, the cam turns on and makes a video recording of 30 seconds automatically.
Sensors
Its built-in G-sensor automatically detects when a file is about to be overwritten and locks it. On the other hand, the loop recording feature overwrites previous recordings unless they’re locked. This means that your cam will still record when the storage is full unless all files are locked.
The cam is easy to install on the windshield. With the included suction mount or double-sided 3M pads, even a first-time user won’t have a hard time with the gadget.
Pros
- It’s a small camera, discreet and operates quietly
- Once installed on the windscreen, it doesn’t show from outside, and it stays hidden
- It quickly and automatically powers on when the engine starts
- Has excellent resolution and makes clear videos
- Works well both during the day and at night because of the 170-degree angle
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a micro SD card
- Overwrites older videos when the memory is full unless they’re locked
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Final Verdict
One of the items you can’t afford to miss in your truck is a truck dashcam. It comes in handy in helping you navigate the road and record events as they happen. It can save you a great deal of trouble should you be pulled over for any reason.
With the many versions of car cameras available, finding the best dash cam for truckers can be daunting. Knowing what to look for and where to find it is one way to get you started. These top picks will make your search for the best cam easier.
The post Best Dash Cam for Truckers of 2021: Top Five Picks first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>One thing you might not know is that the bed of your truck is shorter than a kayak. You, therefore, should be more mindful about how you transport it from one point to another. Carrying the kayak with one end sticking up in the air is not only dangerous but also risky.
Fortunately, several designers have come up with a solution that lets you transport your kayak safely. No matter the size or depth of your truck bed, you can find the best kayak rack for truck if you know what you want. Here are some of the options we have reviewed to help make the process simple for you.
Comparison Chart
Best Kayak Rack for Truck Review
There are several varieties you can choose from, depending on the shape and size. This review picks the top kayak racks and looks at their features to help you understand each model better.
MaxxHaul 70423 Universal Aluminum Truck Rack
The most outstanding feature of the MaxxHaul rack is its no-rust aluminum. This provides excellent strength and durability, preventing corrosion and breakage of parts.
Review
The MaxxHaul 70423 Aluminum rack is made of heavy-duty steel. It comes with a powder coating finish that enhances its rust resistance. At the ends of the crossbars are adjustable stopper bumpers that hold the kayak in place during transportation.
They come in handy during stop-and-go transitions, as well as when you’re navigating sharp turns. The crossbars of the rack are internally reinforced, a factor that delivers additional strength.
Size
The MaxxHaul kayak rack’s crossbars measure approximately 70 inches across the truck. The good thing with them is that you can adjust them to fit most full-size truck beds. They can provide a maximum of 26 inches above the sides of the truck bed for the height.
The rack can comfortably support a weight of up to 400 pounds. This means you can comfortably carry two kayaks with ease. You can easily mount the rack on the truck bed rail system without the need to drill through anything.
Pros
- Easy to mount on the pickup bed as no drilling is required
- Adjustable enough to fit any truck bed
- Can support a weight of up to 400 pounds
- Made from a durable and corrosion-free aluminum frame
- Comes with adjustable cargo bumpers at the end of the crossbars to keep cargo in place
Cons
- The rack doesn’t come well packaged, and some parts are missing
- Not compatible with Chevrolet Silverado 8ft bed as the munts sit in too far
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Apex ATR Heavy Duty Universal Aluminum Utility Rack
The Apex Universal Utility Rack is designed with most trucks in mind. It compatible with beds as wide as 66.5.”
Review
This aluminum truck rack is made from high-strength aluminum that’s also lightweight and rust-resistant. It’s considered superior to its MaxxHaul rack counterpart since it carries more weight. With an 800-pound capacity, the rack can carry not only your kayak but other fishing gear.
Its design features four mental triangles, which come in handy to give your cargo the support it badly needs. Use the loops to securely fasten the kayak to make it remain in place as you take sharp corners. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your kayak won’t lose its balance as you transport it.
Versatility
Apart from carrying your kayak, the rack also comes in handy for other types of cargo. Use it to transport pipes, ladders, and lumber, among other objects.
Installation
When installing the rack on the truck bed, you can choose to drill or not to drill. Whichever the approach, your rack remains securely in place without moving from side to side.
The four tension knobs also help adjust the position of the kayak. Slide them along the top bars to match the width of the cargo. Once correctly set, it’ll be a lot easier to tie down the kayak and anything else you want to bring along.
Measurements
The Apex rack is 30″ high and approximately 13″ long. It weighs 38 lbs, which is an impressive weight for the 800 lbs it can support.
Pros
- The Apex rack is designed to fit in most truck beds
- Wide enough at 66.5” to provide ample carriage space
- Its versatility allows it to be used for transportation of a variety of other items
- Strong and durable enough to support a weight of up to 800 lbs
- Quick and easy to install and doesn’t require drilling
Cons
- The quality of the rack isn’t as good as advertised and hence not dependable
- The corners of the bars are sharp and pose a hazard
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AA-Racks Model APX25-E Aluminum Pickup Truck Ladder Rack
The AA Rack Model comes with a universal design that allows it to fit a variety of full-sized pickup beds. As one of the best all-in-one kayak systems, you’ll like it for its ease of use.
Review
The APX25-E rack comes packaged with all the items you require for the safe transportation of your kayak. It includes a kayak roof jack, 8 C-clamps, ratchet straps, and 4 J-racks, enough to hold two kayaks.
Compatibility
This rack can fit in several standard truck beds. These include Ford and Chevy, as well as the uniquely-shaped bed of the Toyota Tacoma. Its steel tube is designed to adjust between various truck bed widths comfortably.
Unfortunately, the rack won’t work with trucks with a utility track system, toolbox, or side box. It may also not be a good fit for non-standard truck beds like the Honda Ridgeline and Avalanche.
Safety
For increased safety as you drive down bumpy roads, the strong C-clamps will come in handy. It’ll also help if you use the extended bolts and ratchet straps to secure your watercraft in place.
The length of the rack is such that it can accommodate crafts as long as 16′ long. The total capacity is 2,200 lbs, allowing you to carry more than one kayak on the rack.
Installation
Just like the previously reviewed rack models, the Apex rack is easy to install and deconstruct. It requires no drilling, as the 8 C-clamps will take care of the rack’s stability and positioning. Furthermore, it will preserve the resell value of your truck.
Pros
- The rack is designed as a universal model ideal for a variety of full-sized pickup trucks
- Made from strong, durable, and reinforced heavy-duty aluminum
- Provides 38″ of additional carrying capacity upon mounting the cantilever to the crossbars
- Has a carrying capacity of 2,200 lbs, evenly distributed across the racks
- The installation is straightforward and requires no drilling as the C-clamps provide the required support
Cons
- The rack is not compatible with trucks that come with a Utility Truck Systems or a toolbox
- The rail end caps don’t seem secure enough and may require some screws
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GoPlus Pickup Truck Bed Hitch Extender Rack
This heavy-duty construction metal rack will work just fine for your kayak. The black coated finish improves the outlook of the stand and improves its durability.
Review
The GoPlus rack is designed with a lot more than your kayak in mind. You can use it to transport your ladder, long pipes, and lumber conveniently.
This hitch extender fits well into 2” square hitch receivers and may also be used on 1.25” receivers. However, the later must come with a hitch adaptor.
It’s an ideal rack for long-distance loading. Its premium quality supports a wide range of cargo. The good thing with it is that it can support oversized cargo if well placed on the extender.
Capacity
You can adjust the rack horizontally or vertically on any 2-inch receiver. This creates enough room to carry additional cargo to a maximum of 750 lbs. The rack will come in handy in different situations, depending on what you need to transport.
Design
The rack has a simple design and a stainless appearance. It features a function-oriented extender that strives for more space for your cargo. On the front and sides of the rack is a reflective tape that improves visibility.
It can help prevent accidents while you drive at night. It’s also coupled with a safety flag for added security.
Pros
- The rack comes very well packaged and works as advertised
- Sturdy and versatile enough to transport more than just a kayak
- No clips, drilling, or tools needed during installation
- The quality of the rack is good and gives you excellent value for your money
- Features a reflective tape and rosy red flag for safety purposes
Cons
- The rack lacks proper padding where it comes in contact with the kayak, and it could cause some scratches
- The instructions for installation are incomplete, and the frame can’t hold more than 350 lbs
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TMS 800 LB Adjustable Tuck Rack
This TMS rack comes as a set of two heavy-duty adjustable truck ladder racks. It’s designed to function as a multipurpose holder for bigger and longer items.
Review
If you’re looking for a rack bigger than the average pickup truck bed, the TMS rack is a good fit. It can be used to transport a kayak, canoe, lumber, pipes, and ladders, among other bulky items.
The frame that makes the rack is sturdy and wide enough to support a capacity of 800 lbs. The maximum height is 30″, including the height of the truck bed. The width is adjustable from the usual 5′ to a maximum of 7′.
The fact that you can adjust the width means you can have more space for longer items. The convenience this provides can’t be compared to some other rack models on the market.
Safety
If you’re worried about the security of your items, rest assured that the TMS rack won’t disappoint. Unlike the other rack models previously reviewed, the TMS rack requires drilling during installation.
The use of bolts and nuts is an extra step that adds a layer of security to the stand. The package comes with two bolts and nuts to help fix it firmly on the truck bed. In the package box, there are 8 bolts and screws for a perfect installation job.
The base of the rack comprises heavy-duty steel that makes it heavier and more durable than aluminum-made ones. Overall, the product weighs 50 lbs and is 51″ by 26.2″ by 1.5″ in dimension.
Pros
- Comes with a steel base and a sturdy frame that makes it capable of holding 800 lbs
- By using bolts and nuts in the installation process, the strength of the rack is enhanced
- Suitable to carry a variety of long items in addition to a kayak
- It comes as a set of two frames and delivers value for money
- The width is adjustable from the minimum 5′ to 7′ for additional space
Cons
- The installation process requires drilling which takes more time and dents the truck bed
- The finishing is not well done, and the surface has huge scuffs and blemishes
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Final Verdict
Searching for the best kayak rack for a truck can be a daunting task. Given the countless models and reviews out there, sifting through all of them is impossible. The good thing is, if you have an idea of the qualities you want in a kayak rack, the search can be a lot easier.
A kayak is not a small investment; consequently, it must be handled the right way during transportation. From the above review, you can pick a rack that best resonates with your needs. Whether you want one that requires drilling or one that doesn’t, the market has something for you.
Most of these products are budget-friendly, durable, and can support heavy cargo. They’re also compatible with most truck beds, apart from a few that won’t fit. So, be sure you know the size of your truck for easy shopping.
However, before you settle for any of them, ensure it’s what you really need for your kayak. Upon finding the best fit, nothing will stop you from making your way to your favorite waterway for an adventure.
The post Best Kayak Rack for Truck of 2021: Top Five Picks first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>These Bluetooth headsets are really handy when you are driving a heavy vehicle like a truck, as they help you stay connected while keeping your hands free at all times. This way truckers can drive their semis without any interruptions and with the utmost focus while talking on the phone.
With your hands on the wheel, eyes on the road, and Bluetooth headset in your ears, you can become the master of multitasking while being absolutely safe and risk-free.
Now when it comes to buying a Bluetooth headset, there are unlimited options available on the market. But not every Bluetooth headset can give you reliable functionality and ear comfort.
If you own a truck and are always on the move, you can find the best Bluetooth headset for truckers by perusing the reviews below. All the Bluetooth headsets are reviewed according to factors including battery life, volume control, wireless range, size, durability, and much more.
Top 5 Bluetooth Headsets Comparison Chart
Best Bluetooth Headset for Truckers Reviews
Mpow Pro Truck Driver Bluetooth Headset BH015B
When it comes to a Bluetooth headset, we usually look for ones that feel comfortable in our ears and offer the best sound and functionality. The Mpow Pro Truck Driver Bluetooth headset offers a remarkable combination of sheer comfort and top-notch functionality which makes it one of our top contenders on this list!
Review
Mpow Pro Bluetooth headsets are built for those who are always on the phone and need to take phone calls on the go. The headset offers a super 4X noise cancellation microphone in the headset that allows you to hear the other side clearly and crisply even in noisy and crowded environments.
The microphone can also be adjusted for a better angle so you can speak more easily and clearly. The headset weighs about 1.48 oz which is practically no weight at all. The headset sits easily on your head without causing any strain or pressure to your head.
The earpads are padded and the headband is flexible, so you can adjust it according to your preferred level of comfort.
The headset is powered by AA batteries that offer up to 12 hours of continuous talk time and 200 hours of standby time.
The most unique feature of this headset is its dual pairing. You can pair this headset with any two Bluetooth devices at a time and roam freely within the range of 30 feet without experiencing any voice breaking or signal dropping.
The headset is compatible with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and Bluetooth enabled computers as well.
Pros
- Dual pairing at one time
- Walking range of 30 feet
- Compatible with tablets, laptops, and computers
- Extremely lightweight
- Flexible and adjustable according to comfort
Cons
- Charging block doesn’t come with the headset
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YAMAY Bluetooth Headset with Microphone M9A
People living a fast-paced life often need technological accessories that can facilitate them in their daily routines and match their pace as well. The YAMAY Bluetooth headset is designed to cater to those such people. With a wide range of functions that suit the lifestyle of a busy trucker, this headset could be the one that best suits your needs.
Review
Much like the Mpow Bluetooth headset reviewed above, YAMAY made sure to include all the features that a busy trucker looks for in a Bluetooth headset.
The headset has exceptional noise cancellation functionality that picks up your voice as clearly and vividly from the noisy surroundings as if you are in an empty room with no one around you.
Your need for staying connected at all times is answered by the dual device connection that allows you to connect with two devices at the same time. The switching feature is made seamless and easy so you can conveniently switch between your connected devices as and when needed.
What sets it apart from Mpow is the mute function that allows you to mute your voice during a chat by simply rotating the mic upward and parallel to the headband. This way, you can also enjoy music while you drive.
Its featherlight weight makes it extremely comfortable to wear on your head and ensures that your ears remain unstrained by the weight of the headset. Furthermore, the headband can be adjusted and stretched to the most comfortable size you prefer.
What’s more? You can charge this headset with a micro USB cable or directly with the charging dock.
It gives up to 17 hours of continuous talk time while staying charged for up to 200 hours on standby.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Can play music when the mic is muted
- The mic is muted by rotating it upwards
- Offers 17 hours of continuous talk time
- Adjustable headband
- Comes with a charging dock
Cons
- May cause discomfort if worn for extended hours
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Plantronics Voyager 104 Bluetooth Headset
If you have to make dozens of phone calls every day and your job requires you to be on the move all the time, you need a device that doesn’t come in the way of your work. Instead, it should facilitate you in the best way possible. In comes the Plantronics Voyager Bluetooth Headset! With its sturdy design and top-notch functionality, staying connected has never been easier.
Review
The one thing that matters the most in Bluetooth headsets after crystal clear voice reception is wearing comfort. Plantronics Voyager lives up to the standard of comfort by offering you a memory foam headband with a padded ear cup that sits comfortably atop your head and flaps over your ears without any strain.
With just one charge, the Plantronics headset can last up to 24 hours, helping you stay connected without stopping for a recharge. Talk about power!
When it comes to other features of the headset, the Voyager’s water resistance tops the list. It’s made of durable materials and P2i nano-coating that protects the headset from sweat, water, and dust.
Designed to withstand tough weather and rigorous use, the Voyager 104 eliminates up to 99.6% of noise to help you hear clearly while also allowing you to speak easily into the microphone.
Pros
- Tough and sturdy design
- A powerful battery that lasts up to 24 hours on one charge
- Exceptional noise cancellation up to 99.6%
- Water, dust, and sweat resistant
- Foam-padded mic for crystal clear voice transmission
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- Heavier than other headsets due to thick padding
- Double the cost of an average headset
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Conambo Bluetooth Headset JBT800
If you are looking for a featherweight wireless Bluetooth headset that offers HD sound quality and crystal clear voice transmission, the Conambo Bluetooth Headset is definitely one to consider.
Review
The Conambo Bluetooth headset features a sporty look and a stylish design, offering a number of features that make this headset the best Bluetooth headset for truckers.
Let’s start with the professional-grade, noise cancellation feature that eliminates 85% of the background noise to give you a crystal clear transmission. Whether you are stuck in a traffic jam or standing in the midst of a noise factory, rest assured that you’ll hear the other side with absolute clarity and vividness.
Another notable feature is the ergonomic design of this headset with on-ear control buttons for your convenience. So every time you have to adjust the volume, you can just push the button above your ear and voila! No need to adjust any setting on your phone, laptop, or tablet.
The T-Pad headband design does not move the hair on your head and keeps your hairstyle smooth, while the genuine leather earpad does not exert pressure on your ear.
When it comes to pairing with any Bluetooth-enabled device, the headset pairs smoothly and quickly and keeps the connection stable within 33 feet.
Finally, this Bluetooth headset offers up to 16 hours of talk time and 160 hours of standby time, making it ideal for extended use.
Pros
- A2DP support for music players
- On-ear controls button above the ear pad
- 85% noise cancellation
- Quick and stable signal transmission
- Low power consumption
- 16+ hours continuous use
- T-pad design for the head comfort
Cons
- Not suitable for music, poor treble
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BlueParrott Bluetooth Headset B450-XT
If there is one headset that offers undisputed voice intelligibility in loud environments, it’s BlueParrott Bluetooth Headset. As a trucker, noise cancellation and battery life are perhaps the two biggest concerns that a Bluetooth headset must answer. And BlueParrot answers both the requirements in the shape of the B450-XT.
Review
The first most important feature that this sporty looking Bluetooth headset offers is its remarkable noise cancellation. Imagine driving down a busy road and rolling down your window while talking on a call. With this headset on, you can still hear the other side as clear as day.
Second on the list of features, is the top quality sound that this headset produces. With A2Dp support, you can enjoy listening to music when you are not on a call. Though it’s not primarily meant for music, the low ends this headset produces are truly impressive.
Thirdly, the Bluetooth headset features a large battery which can easily be attributed to the bulkiness of the headset. The most remarkable feature is the voice command. While you are wearing the headset, it will send out a voice command in your ear “Check battery” to tell you if the battery is low, medium, or high.
Being the Class 1 Bluetooth device, this robust headset gives you a range of 300 feet if it’s connected with a Class 1 device. The handsfree controls give you absolute freedom of action while you talk on call.
The Parrot Button sets up voice commands for your convenience. These include pairing/connecting, redialing, and call back, in addition to battery checks. It also lets you answer or ignore calls without even having to lift your finger.
The padding around the ear cup is impressively soft and comfortable, so when you wear it for extended hours, you don’t feel any discomfort on your head.
Pros
- 96% noise cancellation
- Sporty design and large earpiece for sound clarity
- 24 hours talk time
- Long-range Class 1 Bluetooth device
- Voice commands for battery alerts
Cons
- The bulkiness of the ear cup presses the ears a bit
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Final Verdict
Keeping in mind all the factors that can affect a trucker’s choice when it comes to buying an auxiliary gadget, the title of the best Bluetooth Headset for Truckers, in our view, has to be the BlueParrott Bluetooth Headset.
The headset is undisputedly the best amongst all the headsets reviewed above for sheer convenience, smart features, contemporary design, and strong battery life.
From soft and comfortable headband design, clear voice quality, music streaming, a large padded ear cup with button controls, to voice control functionality, powerful battery, and long-range, this headset has it all. This headset tops the list for being the best facilitator in your fast-paced life on the go.
Another superb alternative is the Plantronics Voyager 104 that’s designed to withstand rigorous use and impact damage that could be advantageous if you are a trucker. A tough and sturdy design ensures long-time use even when faced with life on the road.
Some truckers might not like the bulkiness of bigger Bluetooth headsets and may prefer sleeker, more lightweight models instead. If you are that modern trucker that the Conambo Bluetooth Headset is one to consider as it packs a similar range of features in a lightweight and sleek design.
Finally, if you are limited in your budget, you can choose between the Mpow and YAMAY Bluetooth headsets. Both these headsets offer a decent range of features and adequate voice quality and are more affordable than other alternatives.
Say goodbye to discomfort and insecurity by investing in your very own Bluetooth headset and stay connected, safe, and entertained on all your trucking adventures!
The post Best Bluetooth Headset For Truckers of 2021: Top Five Picks first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>Here’s the good news! Even if you are driving alone, you always have the option of listening to music to keep you entertained and alert. Music is every driver’s best friend on the road as it makes the ride enjoyable.
Listening to music also helps you stay focused and awake. But in order to fully enjoy the companionship of music, you must have a high-quality sound system in your vehicle that offers a truly immersive audio experience. The right subwoofer can help do just that!
If you already have a sound system in your truck but it still needs that extra oomph, installing a subwoofer might be your best option. The best subwoofer for truck helps the existing sound system produce better quality sound by generating smooth rhythmic low-frequencies that help you get in the groove to any beat.
A subwoofer allows you to experience better sound clarity and quality as you are able to listen to sounds at different frequencies that you might have otherwise been missing out on your regular sound system. This small but vital addition in your sound system can make a big difference. The low frequencies allow you to experience the music in its entirety and enable you to enjoy the crisp bass sounds for an altogether more immersive experience.
Now all you need to do is to find out which is the best subwoofer for your truck. Reviewed below are some of the most remarkable subwoofers available on the market. With key features listed for all, it should help you find one that best suits your needs.
Top 5 Subwoofers for Truck Comparison Chart
Best Subwoofer for Truck Reviews
Rockville SS8P Car/Truck Subwoofer
If you truly want to enjoy music on the go, you don’t just need any sound system. You need a subwoofer that can produce the best music sound for you so when you play your favorite song in your truck, the sound opens news doors to the world of music.
Nothing does that job better than a subwoofer under your seat. The Rockville SS8P under the seat subwoofer is designed to rock your road trip with the high quality of sound it produces.
Review
When it comes to the physical properties, this subwoofer features an 8” speaker fitted in a unit of 2.8” height that makes it compact enough to fit under your seat without demanding extra space.
A built-in amp comes installed with the unit, making it easier for you to set up the sub without having to go through the hassle of installing the amp separately. The amp also includes a special feature that turns it on as soon as you turn on the stereo. A set of mounting feet keep the unit securely in place, preventing any jerks to it if the ride is turbulent.
Now comes the functionality of the sub. It comes with a PWM MOSFET power supply, offering 400 watts of power or RMS 100 watts while incorporating thermal protection, overload protection and a short protection circuit for a foolproof functionality.
This excellent combination of design and functionality comes with other special features like a low pass filter at 50-150 Hz, a bass boost of 0-12dB at 45Hz, and a subsonic filter at 20Hz.
A remote bass knob also comes with the subwoofer that can be installed anywhere in the vehicle where you can easily access it. This means that once you have installed it underneath your seat, you won’t have to reach it every time you want to turn it on or change the settings. The remote control does that job for you.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to fit under the seat
- Comes with thermal, overload and short protection circuits for damage control
- Remote knob for convenience
- Aluminum housing keeps the unit cool
Cons
- It might not hit the hard quick beats for your hip hop playlist
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Pioneer TS-SW3002S4 Subwoofer
If you are looking for a subwoofer that takes up less space while offering you a big bass, you’re in for a musical treat with the Pioneer TS-SW3002S4 shallow-mount sub.
Review
This well-designed subwoofer comes within a compact size that allows you to install it easily behind the seat or under it, depending on your preference or space in your truck or SUV.
The subwoofer is shaped in an oversize cone structure that allows more air to move and translates to a deeper and bigger bass. The result is a loud sound throw and accurate bass. The construction material of the cone is MICA injected molded resin that makes it rigid and highly durable.
Pair the cone up with a sealed enclosure and you have what could be the biggest bass you have ever received from a small-sized subwoofer.
The shallow-mount sub handles up to 400 watts RMS with a 1500 watt peak power rating. Its 25-350 HZ low-frequency response rate produces a wide range of deep, accurate, and rich bass tones.
Pros
- 400 watt RMS power/1500 watt peak power
- MICA injected molded resin for durability
- Sturdy steel basket that can stand the test of time
- 3 ⅜” recess and 25-350 Hz low-frequency response rate
- Single 4-Ohm voice coil
Cons
- Heavy for its compact size
- Comes with 1-year warranty only
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Rockford Fosgate P300-12 300 Watt Amplified Subwoofer
Looking for a sturdy, budget-friendly, and adjustable subwoofer that gives you the best sound you have ever had? Turn to the Rockford Fosgate Amplified Subwoofer. Packing a range of features that adds a world of difference to your truck’s sound system, this powerful subwoofer is just the right addition to your truck’s sound system.
Review
The highlight of this subwoofer is its Kevlar-reinforced paper-pulp cone design along with a StampCast basket with venting.
The quality of the sound it produces can best be attributed to its shape and design, but also to the Class D 300 Watts amplifier that dramatically transforms the sound quality for you.
The subwoofer also comes with thermal and over-voltage protection that prevents any damage to the unit while ensuring efficiency at all times.
The remote bass level control makes it easy for you to change the settings of your sub without having to pull it out from under your seat.
The sealed enclosure that comes with the subwoofer is engineered to produce optimum sound quality, while the rugged industrial vinyl coating prevents it from dust and impact damage.
What’s more? Its high and low-level inputs allow you to connect the subwoofer to any system you have, so regardless of which sound system you have, rest assured you have the best sound coming your way.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- High or low-level inputs
- Quality bass response
- Powered 12” subwoofer enclosure
- Variable bass boost
Cons
- Mounting bracket for bass knob doesn’t hold the knob well
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Sundown Audio SA-12 Subwoofer
Not every subwoofer available in the market may be the right fit for your truck or style of music, but the Sundown Audio SA-12 is hands-down one of the best subwoofers you can find on the market in terms of quality sound and reliable performance.
Review
If you are looking for a clear and accurate sound, you have come to the right product. Sporting a sleek and compact design, the Sundown SA-12 is ideal for cars and trucks alike.
It comes with a lightweight aluminum frame and can easily fit in small enclosures without much of a hassle.
At 750 watts RMS and 1500 watts peak power, this small-sized subwoofer does the complex job of producing sound quality that matches its much bigger and bulkier rivals. The sub produces the mightiest, full-sounding low-end sound regardless of the genre of music you are listening to.
With a tough SPL competition grade paper cone and a 2.5” voice coils constructed with anodized aluminum, this little sub will have your truck shaking like an earthquake with its low ends if you maximize its full power.
This model can easily survive a long one-way journey thanks to a huge magnet ID shorting Faraday ring that is specifically put in it to keep the sub active and ensure zero distortion on the way.
Pros
- 750 watts power capacity
- 2-year warranty
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Produces the loudest low end to shake your car
Cons
- Needs a powerful amplifier
- Not exactly budget-friendly
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Infinity Reference REF1200S 12” Subwoofer
The days of compromising on the best sound of your favorite music are over. In comes the Infinity Reference subwoofer, a notable combination of high-quality sound, durable construction, and compact size. The Infinity Reference subwoofer ensures that you enjoy the most wholesome sound of your favorite music artists throughout your journey on the road.
Review
First off, the overall design of the subwoofer ensures that you don’t need to move things around in your truck to fit this compact subwoofer. Taking up a very small space, this Infinity subwoofer fits into a small enclosure without damaging the sound.
This low-profile subwoofer is all about the bass, so with a response that goes down to 27 Hz, rest assured that all those low frequencies you have been missing out are now available to you in all this auditory glory.
Most subwoofers come with a dual-voice coil in which you wire the two coils to achieve different impedances. In this sub, however, all you need to do is flip the switch between 2 and 4 ohms and get your desired setting.
The subwoofer is a 12” shallow-mount cone-shaped sub, with a polypropylene cone and rubber surround. It can handle up to 250 watts RMS and offers a frequency response from 27-175 Hz.
Last but not the least, the polypropylene cone can withstand resonance and does not flex when subjected to high power levels. This also ensures that the sound coming out of this sub will be distortion-free.
Pros
- An extremely high sensitivity rating of 96 dB
- Durable and lightweight
- Low-profile design that allows you to fit in today’s enclosure
- Produces well-defined bass
Cons
- RMS is only 300 watts
- Can blow if not paired with the right equipment
- 1-year warranty only
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Verdict
When it comes to finding the best subwoofer for truck, a number of factors must be kept in mind before you choose what to buy. The most important factor of all is the quality of sound, which is determined by the ability of a subwoofer to produce low ends.
The size of the subwoofer is another main factor, while low price and durability are auxiliary advantages.
Considering all these factors, in our view, the one subwoofer that tops the list is the Sundown Audio SA-12 Subwoofer.
This little bass master not only produces the crispest and loudest bass sounds that you can ever hope for in a small-sized sub, but its thunderous bass is practically strong enough to shake the windows of your truck with its power. If you are a bass purist, this is the best feature to look for when it comes to choosing a subwoofer for your truck.
Other subwoofers that offer good value for money are the Rockford Fosgate subwoofer and the Pioneer subwoofer. Both are constructed with durable materials and can survive for a long time without wearing down or compromising performance.
At the end of the day, choosing the right subwoofer for your truck comes down to your sound preferences and budget. That ultimately decides which subwoofer can serve your audio needs the best. Whichever subwoofer you decide to choose, make sure that it is tuned and installed properly to augment low-end frequencies that you have been unable to listen to on your regular sound system.
A terrific sounding music system playing your favorite tunes can make any journey on the road a journey to look forward to!
The post Best Subwoofer for Truck of 2021: Top 5 Recommendations first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>Some of the accessories you may wish to buy for the truck bed include a cover, bed liner, or bed rails. Without the correct measurements of the bed, you probably won’t get anything else right.
Apart from hauling cargo on the truck, you may also want to use the truck bed for other functions. These, too, will require you to get the correct measurements of the bed.
A Truck Hammock
Do you have a hammock that you have just never find the right spot to hang? With a pickup, you won’t have to look for perfectly spaced trees anymore. A wide hammock, the type with wood bars on end, will perfectly hang along the length of the truck.
To get a hammock that’s not too long or too wide, you need to get the measurements of your truck. You’ll soon be gently rocking in the cool breeze.
DIY Pickup Camper
Don’t spend money on a camper shell that requires the effort of four people to put up. Instead, use your truck bed to make a personalized pickup camper. This you can quickly achieve by pitching a truck bed tent, building a custom cabinet, and fitting a foam pad.
A single truck bed will efficiently serve as a camp for one person. It can also be elevated to provide more space for more people.
Truck Bed Kitchen or Workshop
Among the things you can do with the bed of your truck is making custom cabinetry. Roll-out or fold-out cabinets or cubicles that can serve as storage spaces would be ideal.
During your camping outings, you can easily convert the cabinets into an impressive fold-out kitchen. Alternatively, diversify your carpentry skills to build a handy fold-out workshop. With a tool chest and work table, you’ll have ample space where you can complete your projects from just about anywhere.
Tailgate Lounge
This is a life-long honored tradition. It involves filling the truck bed with coolers and driving off to a field or parking lot where you set up a barbeque. You can do a lot more than just sitting on the open tailgate.
Consider converting the truck bed into an entire lounge. For a cozier arrangement, you could add a couch and a big screen at the back.
Taking Your Truck Bed’s Measurements
All these are fun and constructive ways to use your truck bed. However, they won’t come out perfectly without the right measurements of the truck bed. The best fittings should be measured out, so they aren’t too big or too small.
Here’s how to measure truck bed.
1. Measure the Length with the Tailgate Closed
With a friend holding the other end, stretch a tape measure from the front left corner to the back left one. Do this on the inside of the bed. Ensure the tape measure runs in a straight line, perfectly parallel to the top of the bed.
It won’t give you accurate measurements if it sags in the middle.
Note down this measurement and label it “length.”
2. Find the Width of the Truck Bed
Stretch the tape measure against the inside of the truck bed at the left front corner. For accurate measurements, have someone pull the tape until it reaches the front right corner. Remember to hold the tape measure in a taut line on top of the bed.
Record the measurement as label it as “width.”
Measure the distance between the wheels if they’re located inside the bed.
3. The Depth of the Truck Bed
The depth of the truck bed is the distance from the floor of the bed to its top. Keep the tape parallel with the side of the bed to keep it well stretched. Note down the measurement and record it as “depth.”
4. Convert the Measurements into Fractions
For fittings like a Tonneau cover or a bed rug, you may need to convert the measurements into fractions. Do this by dividing the inches by 12.
If you want to get measurements based on the metric system, divide the total number of centimeters by 100.
Keep in mind that most truck accessories measurements are rounded off to the nearest fraction. For example, if the bed of your truck measures 5.4 feet, you’ll probably get a product measuring 5.5 feet.
How to Determine the Haul Capacity
Now you know how big your truck bed is, but how do you tell how much weight it can carry? This is where your truck’s haul capacity comes in, and this is how you should go about it.
First, look for the truck’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, which is usually labeled on the driver’s door jamb. It refers to the total weight the truck can carry safely, including passengers and the truck itself.
Secondly, determine the weight of the truck, which may be listed on the title or manual. If you can’t find it, take the truck to a local garage for professional weighing.
Thirdly, calculate the truck’s payload capacity. This you’ll do by subtracting the weight of the truck from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This will give you the exact weight your vehicle can safely hold without overloading it.
Final Thoughts
You can put your truck bed into various uses, which depends on the size of this area. Before you install a hammock, a kitchen, or cabinetry, know how much space you have. This is the only way you can put it into good use.
Additionally, you also need to know how much weight your truck can carry. Remember you want to keep your vehicle in good shape for as long as possible. As such, you must avoid overloading it.
Learning how to measure truck bed isn’t hard and shouldn’t take much of your time. With a tape measure and a friend to help, you’ll be good to go.
The post How To Measure Truck Bed: Steps to Follow first appeared on My Truck Needs This.]]>