To open the tent, undo the rear latches and safety strap, then push it up. The rear actuation automatically unlocks the front latches, leaving only the front strap to undo. Nice setup! Good luck
@ThePerfectWalk Thank you. I'm getting a ARE mx hd cap with ascend roof basket. Do you have a link to that telescoping ladder? And did you custom make the hooks on the top side of thar ladder?
I clicked for the truck, the canopy is off course a bonus to check out. As far as rtt's go. There are so many on the market for whatever build you are doing. I cannot wait to buy a bigger rig to do something similar.
That's really cool that the roof of the topper is magnetic. I've never seen stainless steel that is magnetic, wow RSI went all out. Nice setup thank you for the review.
Crazy how I’m into getting one of these bad boys for traveling && a video of truck camping came out 👍🏼 great timing definitely putting this up if I ever get a f150
PPS I’m totally gonna do the Velcro seat storage & buy one of those door jam steps!!! That thing is sweet. Thanks for the walkthrough dude, my F150 looks almost identical to yours but yours is a lot cooler lol.
Love your setup! Question for you....I was thinking about roof tent on a rack system until I saw your RSI Cap. What is the advantage of the RSI cap over just putting the rooftop tent on a rack? Is it just for having the ability to have someone sleep in the bed of the truck? Thanks!
Only a few things. I like it for my dogs, camping with more than just myself, secure gear storage...and just pure aesthetics. I got the cap first and then decided to add the tent. If I bought the tent first I might not have purchased the cap.
Gives me an option rather than hotel it all the time. I want to truck camp too.as a geezer lady have to be careful of falls so she’ll maybe my only option.
I always come back to this video. It's a good one. Another question if you will. I see this F150 is an XLT. I've been going round and round about which F150 to buy, now put off to likely early 2025, and have narrowed it to likely either an aftermarket leveled and customized Platinum or Platinum Plus, or just going right to the F150 Raptor with the 37 package. Do you have any thoughts on a Platinum/Platinum Plus versus a Raptor 37 with an overland set up like yours and handling the added weight and off roads and such? I suspect the Platinum's payload capacity might be similar to the XLT, but I have seen Raptor overland setup vids. And I have seen both with the RSI evo smartcap, as well as with the Diamondback HD bedcover.
Well - I haven't owned a raptor - but I sat in one and looked at one. Ultimately I elected to do the XLT and then mod it - went cheapest I could to get options I wanted and then dressed it up. But speed wasn't really important to me and I couldn't see paying 25k more than I had to - that was like 5 years worth of travel I'd be spending to upgrade the truck - when the entire point was to build a vehicle that made it easier for me to strike out into nature anytime. That's what I did but everyone's situation is different! I think if I had to do it today I'd go even cheaper and buy a used Tacoma or f150 and then start modding.
What is the specific height of your set up with the tent closed, from the ground to the very top of the tent case? I'm wondering what clearance would be needed to drive into say a parking garage with that set up in place. Thanks. Also, can you sit or laydown inside your pickup bed with all the RSI windows open while it is raining hard outside, and not have the water get inside to make you or your stuff wet? I ask b/c using it as a living space or office space during the rain but with all those windows open confidently staying try sure would be nice. Having to close all the windows to stay dry would be less appealing. It doesn't look like they designed the rsi smartcap to keep rain out with windows open. For instance, the windows when open look like they slope up away from the cap, so if rain landed on the glass it looks like that raid would drain back towards the bed, making it more likely that water would drain into the interior, is that an issue, other? Thanks.
Hey Nate! Sorry - I sold this rig - so I can't go measure it for you. As for whether the cap is weatherproof - I can say I never got wet - but I would recommend talking to someone who camped in one in the rain more than me. Most of my camping was up in the tent.
@@ThePerfectWalk You sold such a great rig. I'm sorry to hear it. If you make another good one like that, I'll keep an eye out for your next vid. As for me, I've put my vehicle purchase off till 2025. I recently saw a customized Yukon AT4 vid, lifted 3", 35 tires, and all new off road suspension underneath that got my attention, so I am going to consider something like that, but a customized F150 is still tops on my list, maybe a 37 Raptor, maybe a levelled Platinum. But whatever it is, I'll either put a Diamondback HD bedcover or an RSI Smartcap on the bed, yep still undecided on that too, and then do the pop up tent over that. It sounds like you do more overlanding that I anticipate doing, but I still want to do it right, with some flexibility. Thanks for the replies, and all the best.
Hey again. Keep coming back to this video. Love the set up. I thought of another question I was hoping you might be able to answer. I'm looking at a new F150, Platinum or Raptor, likely Raptor. I am now considering whether I want to get the RSI Smartcap like yours or a Diamondback HD cover. If the later there are varying height racks that can be mounted. I like the ones that are lower height, where whatever is mounted sits at or below the cab roof height. Do you know, could this Roofnest be mounted on the back of a 5.5 pickup bed below the cab roofline, even if stuck out a bit past the tailgate, and then used safely that way? And two, would it be an easy thing to remove and later add back the Roofnest as desired? I ask because the rails that can mount on the Diamondback HD bedcover when nothing is mounted on them do not interfere with opening either the front or the rear of the bedcover. So I put the roofnest on when I will or may be using it, and take it off the rest of the time. I'd welcome any answers or thoughts you might have. Oh and could that roofnest be mounted directly over the cab, which would then leave me full functionality of the Diamondback HD bedcover? Thanks. Great video! And great truck setup! By the way, if you haven't seen it, the newest Sparrow2 (reg or xl) by Roofnest, I believe the upgrade to what you have there is pretty freakin amazing. Can also add roof racks on top of it, for skis or paddle boards or kayaks, whatever. And depending on how you mount the roofnest, that ladder will be handy for easier access to what is put on top of the roofnest.
I don’t know the answer about those mounting options - my recommendation would be to join the “Roofnest Flock” group on Facebook. You’ll be able to get really quick good info there about setups and mounting.
Back for another question, really appreciate your feedback as I am torn on this vs Super-Pacific, which has an all in one, cap & tent. Any rattles up there between the roof rack on top of the RSI and the RoofNest tent? Do you ever take the Roofnest off and if so, how much of a process is that? Thanks a lot.
I’ve just sold this rig and I’m working on what next! I can say there were ZERO rattles or road noise, but my setup was pretty different than most, using the rack on top of the RSI instead of rails. I’m not familiar with he Super-Pacific, but I’m going to go check it out! I didn’t take the Roofnest off, ever - but really because I used that rack instead of rails, which was a total mess to put together, but locked in like crazy.
@@ThePerfectWalk Thanks so much for the added detail! Good luck with what's next. Check out Super Pacific, they make a really smart cap/tent combo. Best!
It’s attaching to the rack for me - there are hooks on the tent but the way I have it attached to a roof rack, it doesn’t quite work - so I just hook to the rack
Really good set up. But just for kicks, Bears and raccoons for sure. I almost did the exact same set up but had to use my truck bed as a truck bed , so had to adapt to that.
Thought of another question. I'm torn between the Roofnest Sparrow2, which you have here, that runs lengthwise above, the most current version, or the Roofnest Condor2 which folds out and opens side to side, hanging out over the side with one end supported by the ladder. Do you have any experience with both, and a preference? I'd welcome your input.
I don't have experience with both - only this one. I camp alone, so the expansion added complexity that I didn't need in my life. I like that this just pops open and pushes shut.
@@ThePerfectWalk I get that. And I'm 6'2" as well, so that Sparrow would likely work well for me too. Here's another. This popup Sparrow tent mounted over the Smartcap in the rear, do you hear any wind or road noise while driving with that up there? Or maybe not since it is so far back? Do you notice having that set up makes the average mpg much worse? I saw a video that showed the Diamondback bedcover marginally improved but basically didn't change the average mpg, but I saw another video that showed a bed cap like the rsi actually improved average mpg by 1 -1 1/2 mpg. I found that very interesting. Of course that did not have the pop up tent on top. I also wonder if the RSI rack on top without the pop up tent, if that would make noise or affect average mpg too. Any thoughts on that as well?
That is cool! I have just purchased a 2018 Lariat and I am considering options on setting it up for camping and fly fishing. You have given me some really good ideas! Thanks! P.S. Are you still driving it and, if so, how many mile do you have on it now?
Very nice truck build. I have a 2019 F150, but I haven’t built it out for overlanding like you have. One question: Did you have to add a leaf in the back due to the added weight of the tent and the topper?
Glad I found your video. The tent drew me in. I've been notified by my local Ford dealer I'm in the next "wave" for the Ford 150 Lightning EV. Looks like same bed set up as yours, so I'm looking at bed/tent options. I know I'll take a range hit with the tent from a drag coefficient perspective--how much I'm not sure. Thanks for expanding my considerations.
Hey how come these rtt are never on the roof of the trucks? I’m worried about weight limits. Do you think your same setup would work on the roof? I need the bed for an ATV
@@ThePerfectWalk oh man that’s awesome that you replied I was hoping for first hand experience. But no I mean why don’t I ever see roof top tents on the roofs of these ford f150’s (I too own an 18 xlt) So I started looking at different roof racks and their ratings. And maybe I’m overthinking this and should just send it but. The highest pound rated roof rack I can find is 500lb. The two bar style roof rack is around 250 pound rating. Well the tents are usually 2-3 person sleepers. Plus the tent weighs like 100 pounds on its own. With my wife and our toddler we’re already exceeding the heaviest duty roof racks. Plus what I’ve read on the f150’s is the actual roof top weight rating wouldn’t be enough for us plus the tent either. So basically I just want to make sure that I can put a tent on the roof of the f150 (on a roof rack) and not overload anything.
OH! I see. You could do roof racks on top of a truck theoretically depending on the weight load and how many people...and put the tent there. But it would look pretty weird I think compared to over the bed, and also I have a sunroof that I want to use.
You could message a manufacturer or two of tents and ask them if they've seen folks mount them successfully - or join a Facebook Forum (like the Roofnest Flock" and check for experience.
Thinking about getting this for my 218 raptor. How much taller is the smartcap compared to to the cab of the truck? Hows the wind noise and mpg drop on highway speeds
Loved my 2018 xlt, v8 in it was awesome. But got rid of it for a 2022 due to multiple electrical issues that wouldn't go away after being fixed. It's 2022 so I got a brand new 60k f150 xlt for less than what I paid for my 18, it worked out. Kept with the v8 tho. Nice truck man
@@ThePerfectWalk All mine were electric. All the lights on my whole back end would stay on to where they'd burn out, radio software glitched all the time
I have 2021 ford f150 raptor 37, do i need to lift a truck to put a smart cab and roof top tent. How much it is going to cost me and what place do you recommend me.
Nope. You don't need to lift a truck to add a cap and tent. That's just about aesthetics and if you plan on doing real off roading and need the clearance
I like it all, the F150, the Smart Cap, and the tent up top. My problem is that I like roof racks for ski's, bikes, kayaks, possibly extra storage bins that mount on such, and adding that tent up top I'm not sure what to do about the roof rack. I don't imagine they make that tent so that when closed there are roof racks that can go on top of it? Putting the roof rack above the cab, assuming it won't mess with the door seals where it would be mounted, might not allow enough length for some of those items I'd normally mount up top? I guess the only way to do it all would be to only store stuff in the bed when the tent is mounted up top, which might work some or even most of the time, but it is an issue. Any thoughts on this issue? Either way, thanks. Great review.
@@ThePerfectWalk Hey, thanks so much for those links. Exactly what I was wondering about. Just as an observation, with the cap, then the tent on top, and the rack with bikes on top of that, talk about being potentially top heavy or at risk of high winds laterally. Were I to do a lot of road trips with all of that I might want to do a bit of offset of my tires for a bit of extra lateral stability to lessen the risk of high winds blowing the vehicle over. Hate to think what that full set up would do to mpg. But that is what I was imagining, so thanks for the extra effort.
That rooftop tent when closed, how much does it weigh? Do you find it simple enough to remove and put back on alone when you want to, or does it require two people to do so? Keep the rooftop tent in the garage and just put it on when I may need it. Oh, and love that little step you showed. Great idea. Did that loop it attached to come on the pick up already, or did you have to drill something there?
There is sun roof!! I am always being carried at the back on the road and even don't know. Thanks for the briefing Wander and I will kick George out from the front seat, or I can stay inside the tent on the road next time.
That RSI Smartcap is an awesome bed cap. One of these days they'll redesign it to have fine mesh screens on either the large windows or just the small inset ones on the sides, either a permanent redesign or a functional accessory that can be put on and taken off. When they do, I think it will be a near perfect product. Oh, and I just realized though the F150 Raptor and Tremor only come in a 5.5' bed like yours there, the Platinum and below models can come with a 6.5' bed, and I"m seriously considering a Platinum, though maybe a Tremor. That 6.5' foot bed with a Smartcap on it, that would be great given that I'm 6.2. Then no worries about wanting to keep the tailgate open if I choose to sleep inside rather than on top, or have others with me on a trip who will. And if I remember correctly, you can get the RSI Smartcap for both bed lengths. That setup of yours is great looking.
@@ThePerfectWalk If I was to get an F150 with the 6.5' bed, and the appropriate RSI smart cap to fit that, which I suspect is available, my follow up question for you is, do they make a longer rooftop tent to fit above the longer bed, giving me even more head and foot room while sleeping above? And second question, how much do you think, or know, that driving with this rooftop top would decrease mpg? Thanks. I'm seriously considering just getting the newest Raptor, and I assume I could do this same setup on that, but I am still also considering the Platinum, deciding between the 5.5' and 6.5' bed.
Do you think a couple could comfortably sleep in that tent and would you see anything wrong with a kid and two German Shepards sleeping in the bed? Like no overheating or anything in the topper?
I would hesitate to advise on the dogs - I don’t camp with my dogs. As for the couple in the tent - I think it would be no problem - it’s not a king bed but it’s big enough for two
Hey that is a beautiful set up you got there, question, is that smart cap is heavy? Is a beautiful cap but Is it more weight in the bed though right? so it mean that gas consumption is a lot more, how is the truck run with that load? I have same truck as yours 2019 F-150 Super Crew 3.5L Ecoboost FX4 thinking to have that kind of bed and set up like yours, is look pretty awesome, and neat set up. I love it
Are you using the pull strap? I pull my pull strap down and lock it in place loosely with the little cord - and then I tuck the tent and then lock. Which part is giving you trouble? Pulling it down?
I pulled and it just doesn't want to budge,. I finally had to get on top of truck and push it down with my body strength..the pulls just don't work for me..wish it was easier ..thanks for replying back.@@ThePerfectWalk
That's pretty cool. I'm just over 6'2" tall myself, and surprised it was long enough, but you fit in nicely. A question though. I'd be tempted to get this, but I wonder, I love the RSI Smart Cap, and I would want one for an F150 Raptor or Platinum, but if I didn't want to drive around with that very nice camper attachment on top, and just have the RSI Smart Cap in place, if I wanted to open the rear smart cap window and the tailgate and sleep inside the smart cap with my head and shoulders out on the open tailgate, is there any kind of a tent extender for the back of the smart cap so that I could enclose myself fully out to the end of the tailgate and as high as the top of the smart cap, one that would keep any rain or morning dew/dampness away from me or the inside around me? Without such an tent extender I could still sleep with my head and shoulders out on the open tailgate and just be open to the night air, which would be nice, but it would be especially nice to have the ability to enclose myself fully while sleeping out the back of the smart cap partly on the tailgate if it is raining or there is a chance of rain or at least morning dew. Oh, and lastly, do you know, can you get bug screens for the small side windows of the RSI Smart Cap, but also for the full large side windows and rear window of the RSI Smart Cap? Actually, one other question, about the F150 itself. With that back seat up, and the side doors shut, do you know what the interior width is precisely? I'm wondering if I at just over 6'2" could lay down across and sleep in there without having to bend my knees or sleep on my side with bent knees. Thanks for any input/insights on these questions. And great review, thorough and useful.
Hey - this may sound a little too cheap - but I would just look for some bug or mosquito netting and some magnets and use the steel of the topper to your advantage - you can click anything you want onto this topper with magnets.
@@ThePerfectWalk At risk of sounding stupid again, what problems have arisen due to the F150 aluminum body? Your very sound magnet/netting idea would work on the metal cab so any aluminum on the F150 would not seem to impact that, so I am assuming you are referring to other concerns about the aluminum? Either way, thanks for responding. I saw one of these F150's with a RSI Smart Cab on the back within the last hour when I stepped out to run some errands. It looked as good in real life as it does in these videos.
The truck looks awesome, just one question, I don't see any insulation, just metal, does it get really hot on summer and very cold on winter? Thank you.
It doesn't get too hot compared to the outside weather - doesn't behave like an oven...but it doesn't retain any heat in the cold either. So it doesn't really do much for temp. It IS very hot if you don't open the windows in hot weather, because of circulation in a small space.
How tf do people afford this stuff? Overlanding is so insanely expensive. I mean really 5,000 dollars for the smart cap? A couple grand for the rack and tent? Insane
My wife and I have no kids and 3 good jobs. Camping and exploring is our only hobby. I hope you reach a point in your life when you have the disposable income for things that you would like to have. Every piece we have is chosen because it fits our needs the best. Not based on price. But before we had these we camped with Walmart supplies and garage sale camping equipment,
Hey there, you mind sharing info on your rims. I am working on my 2018 f150 navy blue and think the ones you have would look great on my truck. Thanks in advance
did you have to do anything to beef up your suspension to support the cap and tent (or being in the tent). I just put Fox 2.0 suspension on my 2020 XLT. Do think it will be adequate to hold 2 (normal size) people in the roof tent?
Hey - the entire suspension/lift were built out by Four Wheel Parts - a national brand. Im really not an expert at that particular part of the work, so my plan is always to find someone who is and go ask them what I need to do in order for things to last and be safe.
Nice setup! Have a very similar truck and just starting to look at modifications. Don’t think i will go anywhere near 6”, but wondering about wheel offset? Tire size? Didn’t hear you mention it in the video, apologies if you went through it.
Hey everyone! Have you seen my 2nd channel? Wander EDC - bags and gear reviews!!! ruclips.net/user/WanderEDC
To open the tent, undo the rear latches and safety strap, then push it up. The rear actuation automatically unlocks the front latches, leaving only the front strap to undo. Nice setup! Good luck
Nice video ! Thanks 👊👍
The Smartcap works really well with the tent.
Great set up. Do you have a link for those removable steps?
amzn.to/3LbrDmC
@ThePerfectWalk Thank you. I'm getting a ARE mx hd cap with ascend roof basket. Do you have a link to that telescoping ladder? And did you custom make the hooks on the top side of thar ladder?
I clicked for the truck, the canopy is off course a bonus to check out. As far as rtt's go. There are so many on the market for whatever build you are doing. I cannot wait to buy a bigger rig to do something similar.
I love the tools under the seat with Velcro. Great idea.
Hey I’m super glad that was a useful tip for you
@@ThePerfectWalk I agree! amazing idea, will be doing that to mine for sure!!
Love the bottom of the seat organization. Going to do that for sure
So glad you liked it! Thanks for watching Aaron.
That velcro beneath the seat is a brilliant idea.
🙏🏻 thx 👌🏻
Excellent set up man.
Great video! What are those Velcro storage things called you have under the seat? That is a great idea.
There’s a LOT of options out there. My favorite are the accessories from Vanquest.
That's really cool that the roof of the topper is magnetic. I've never seen stainless steel that is magnetic, wow RSI went all out. Nice setup thank you for the review.
Thanks for watching!
Low grade stainless…
@@mre6138 Thanks Karen
Crazy how I’m into getting one of these bad boys for traveling && a video of truck camping came out 👍🏼 great timing definitely putting this up if I ever get a f150
PPS I’m totally gonna do the Velcro seat storage & buy one of those door jam steps!!! That thing is sweet. Thanks for the walkthrough dude, my F150 looks almost identical to yours but yours is a lot cooler lol.
Thx for watching!!! Glad you enjoyed!
cool truck and setup, question at 8:08 I see you pull out from back of truck bed step and bar with a yellow cap, what is that vertical bar for?
That bar is built into the tailgate as a “pull bar” to help you hoist yourself up onto the step.
@@ThePerfectWalk thanks for the quick reply, I hope to get a truck soon with similar setup,
Can you include a link to those door steps?
Rightline Gear Moki Car Door Step for Car Roof Access As Seen On Shark Tank, 8.75 by 3 by 5.25 Inch a.co/d/eSk6OuY
Thanks for taking time to talk and show your set up.. Awesome walk thru buddy.
No problem 👍
Love your setup! Question for you....I was thinking about roof tent on a rack system until I saw your RSI Cap. What is the advantage of the RSI cap over just putting the rooftop tent on a rack? Is it just for having the ability to have someone sleep in the bed of the truck? Thanks!
Only a few things. I like it for my dogs, camping with more than just myself, secure gear storage...and just pure aesthetics. I got the cap first and then decided to add the tent. If I bought the tent first I might not have purchased the cap.
Thanks for the work on the video. You have given me some thoughts on my 2017 F-150.
Hey you’re most welcome! Thanks for watching
Thanks for the tour of the truck and your set-up for life on the road. Pretty amazing stuff.
Glad you enjoyed! Ready to hit the road!
Gives me an option rather than hotel it all the time.
I want to truck camp too.as a geezer lady have to be careful of falls so she’ll maybe my only option.
I always come back to this video. It's a good one. Another question if you will. I see this F150 is an XLT. I've been going round and round about which F150 to buy, now put off to likely early 2025, and have narrowed it to likely either an aftermarket leveled and customized Platinum or Platinum Plus, or just going right to the F150 Raptor with the 37 package. Do you have any thoughts on a Platinum/Platinum Plus versus a Raptor 37 with an overland set up like yours and handling the added weight and off roads and such? I suspect the Platinum's payload capacity might be similar to the XLT, but I have seen Raptor overland setup vids. And I have seen both with the RSI evo smartcap, as well as with the Diamondback HD bedcover.
Well - I haven't owned a raptor - but I sat in one and looked at one. Ultimately I elected to do the XLT and then mod it - went cheapest I could to get options I wanted and then dressed it up. But speed wasn't really important to me and I couldn't see paying 25k more than I had to - that was like 5 years worth of travel I'd be spending to upgrade the truck - when the entire point was to build a vehicle that made it easier for me to strike out into nature anytime. That's what I did but everyone's situation is different! I think if I had to do it today I'd go even cheaper and buy a used Tacoma or f150 and then start modding.
What is the specific height of your set up with the tent closed, from the ground to the very top of the tent case? I'm wondering what clearance would be needed to drive into say a parking garage with that set up in place. Thanks. Also, can you sit or laydown inside your pickup bed with all the RSI windows open while it is raining hard outside, and not have the water get inside to make you or your stuff wet? I ask b/c using it as a living space or office space during the rain but with all those windows open confidently staying try sure would be nice. Having to close all the windows to stay dry would be less appealing. It doesn't look like they designed the rsi smartcap to keep rain out with windows open. For instance, the windows when open look like they slope up away from the cap, so if rain landed on the glass it looks like that raid would drain back towards the bed, making it more likely that water would drain into the interior, is that an issue, other? Thanks.
Hey Nate! Sorry - I sold this rig - so I can't go measure it for you. As for whether the cap is weatherproof - I can say I never got wet - but I would recommend talking to someone who camped in one in the rain more than me. Most of my camping was up in the tent.
@@ThePerfectWalk You sold such a great rig. I'm sorry to hear it. If you make another good one like that, I'll keep an eye out for your next vid. As for me, I've put my vehicle purchase off till 2025. I recently saw a customized Yukon AT4 vid, lifted 3", 35 tires, and all new off road suspension underneath that got my attention, so I am going to consider something like that, but a customized F150 is still tops on my list, maybe a 37 Raptor, maybe a levelled Platinum. But whatever it is, I'll either put a Diamondback HD bedcover or an RSI Smartcap on the bed, yep still undecided on that too, and then do the pop up tent over that. It sounds like you do more overlanding that I anticipate doing, but I still want to do it right, with some flexibility. Thanks for the replies, and all the best.
Hey again. Keep coming back to this video. Love the set up. I thought of another question I was hoping you might be able to answer. I'm looking at a new F150, Platinum or Raptor, likely Raptor. I am now considering whether I want to get the RSI Smartcap like yours or a Diamondback HD cover. If the later there are varying height racks that can be mounted. I like the ones that are lower height, where whatever is mounted sits at or below the cab roof height. Do you know, could this Roofnest be mounted on the back of a 5.5 pickup bed below the cab roofline, even if stuck out a bit past the tailgate, and then used safely that way? And two, would it be an easy thing to remove and later add back the Roofnest as desired? I ask because the rails that can mount on the Diamondback HD bedcover when nothing is mounted on them do not interfere with opening either the front or the rear of the bedcover. So I put the roofnest on when I will or may be using it, and take it off the rest of the time. I'd welcome any answers or thoughts you might have. Oh and could that roofnest be mounted directly over the cab, which would then leave me full functionality of the Diamondback HD bedcover? Thanks. Great video! And great truck setup! By the way, if you haven't seen it, the newest Sparrow2 (reg or xl) by Roofnest, I believe the upgrade to what you have there is pretty freakin amazing. Can also add roof racks on top of it, for skis or paddle boards or kayaks, whatever. And depending on how you mount the roofnest, that ladder will be handy for easier access to what is put on top of the roofnest.
I don’t know the answer about those mounting options - my recommendation would be to join the “Roofnest Flock” group on Facebook. You’ll be able to get really quick good info there about setups and mounting.
Back for another question, really appreciate your feedback as I am torn on this vs Super-Pacific, which has an all in one, cap & tent. Any rattles up there between the roof rack on top of the RSI and the RoofNest tent?
Do you ever take the Roofnest off and if so, how much of a process is that?
Thanks a lot.
I’ve just sold this rig and I’m working on what next! I can say there were ZERO rattles or road noise, but my setup was pretty different than most, using the rack on top of the RSI instead of rails. I’m not familiar with he Super-Pacific, but I’m going to go check it out! I didn’t take the Roofnest off, ever - but really because I used that rack instead of rails, which was a total mess to put together, but locked in like crazy.
@@ThePerfectWalk Thanks so much for the added detail! Good luck with what's next. Check out Super Pacific, they make a really smart cap/tent combo. Best!
You bet! Thanks so much.
Is that ladder attaching to part of the tent or to the rack system?
It’s attaching to the rack for me - there are hooks on the tent but the way I have it attached to a roof rack, it doesn’t quite work - so I just hook to the rack
I just bought a smart cap for my GMC, how did you fix the leaking windows?
Great question. I sent them a note and they sent me some gaskets.
Not sure if anyone asked this but how is it with rain? Is there a rain over that can come down? Or are the netting doors always exposed
There are rain flaps on the tent - totally dry
Really good set up. But just for kicks, Bears and raccoons for sure. I almost did the exact same set up but had to use my truck bed as a truck bed , so had to adapt to that.
Yup. If I had to use my truck traditionally this would work
All that’s cool but what kind of shoes were those
Ha! Those are Nike Metcon shoes. Love them :)
Thought of another question. I'm torn between the Roofnest Sparrow2, which you have here, that runs lengthwise above, the most current version, or the Roofnest Condor2 which folds out and opens side to side, hanging out over the side with one end supported by the ladder. Do you have any experience with both, and a preference? I'd welcome your input.
I don't have experience with both - only this one. I camp alone, so the expansion added complexity that I didn't need in my life. I like that this just pops open and pushes shut.
@@ThePerfectWalk I get that. And I'm 6'2" as well, so that Sparrow would likely work well for me too. Here's another. This popup Sparrow tent mounted over the Smartcap in the rear, do you hear any wind or road noise while driving with that up there? Or maybe not since it is so far back? Do you notice having that set up makes the average mpg much worse? I saw a video that showed the Diamondback bedcover marginally improved but basically didn't change the average mpg, but I saw another video that showed a bed cap like the rsi actually improved average mpg by 1 -1 1/2 mpg. I found that very interesting. Of course that did not have the pop up tent on top. I also wonder if the RSI rack on top without the pop up tent, if that would make noise or affect average mpg too. Any thoughts on that as well?
The tent didn't cause noise or change my mpg - but the smart cap DID impact mpg
@@ThePerfectWalk Improve it or decrease it, and by how much, if you remember? Thanks.
Great video sir. What tire size? Wheel size and offset?
All details in that video description friend!
Hit me up here again if it was missing info
@@ThePerfectWalk Sorry sir, I did not read the description. Thank you!
@@ThePerfectWalk Instagram!
👌🏻
Great job like your gear and the F150
That is cool! I have just purchased a 2018 Lariat and I am considering options on setting it up for camping and fly fishing. You have given me some really good ideas! Thanks! P.S. Are you still driving it and, if so, how many mile do you have on it now?
I've sold it - with 180k or so miles
Very nice truck build. I have a 2019 F150, but I haven’t built it out for overlanding like you have. One question: Did you have to add a leaf in the back due to the added weight of the tent and the topper?
I did not
What anti condensation mat do you have in your rooftop tent 11:24?
I actually don’t. I just have the mattress in there and no mat - I had a mat when I slept in my truck bed but not needed in the tent
When you sleep inside the bed of truck do you close all windows? Could you open from the inside?
You can lock the windows - but since getting the rooftop tent I haven’t slept in the bed
Glad I found your video. The tent drew me in. I've been notified by my local Ford dealer I'm in the next "wave" for the Ford 150 Lightning EV. Looks like same bed set up as yours, so I'm looking at bed/tent options. I know I'll take a range hit with the tent from a drag coefficient perspective--how much I'm not sure. Thanks for expanding my considerations.
Hopefully you didn’t drown in that “wave” of lightning piles of junk 😂 here’s your future voice telling you “get a gasser while you can”
with a different bed rack would you be able to mount the tent flush with the truck roof?
Maybe so. I didn’t find a flush mount solution in my searching.
Hey how come these rtt are never on the roof of the trucks? I’m worried about weight limits. Do you think your same setup would work on the roof? I need the bed for an ATV
you mean actually sitting on the roof? you need secure mounting that's why it's on rails or a rack always.
@@ThePerfectWalk oh man that’s awesome that you replied I was hoping for first hand experience.
But no I mean why don’t I ever see roof top tents on the roofs of these ford f150’s (I too own an 18 xlt)
So I started looking at different roof racks and their ratings. And maybe I’m overthinking this and should just send it but. The highest pound rated roof rack I can find is 500lb. The two bar style roof rack is around 250 pound rating.
Well the tents are usually 2-3 person sleepers. Plus the tent weighs like 100 pounds on its own. With my wife and our toddler we’re already exceeding the heaviest duty roof racks. Plus what I’ve read on the f150’s is the actual roof top weight rating wouldn’t be enough for us plus the tent either.
So basically I just want to make sure that I can put a tent on the roof of the f150 (on a roof rack) and not overload anything.
OH! I see. You could do roof racks on top of a truck theoretically depending on the weight load and how many people...and put the tent there. But it would look pretty weird I think compared to over the bed, and also I have a sunroof that I want to use.
@@ThePerfectWalk yeah it’s just that we want to use the bed to carry our ATV so I was hoping to mount it on the roof.
You could message a manufacturer or two of tents and ask them if they've seen folks mount them successfully - or join a Facebook Forum (like the Roofnest Flock" and check for experience.
This is an amazing build man.
Hey thanks Dan!
Great video. Can you open the tailgate without opening the back cap window?
Yes you can!
Dude this ride is a Killer, I got F150 FX4, Thanks for the Ideas
No problem! So glad the video was helpful
Thinking about getting this for my 218 raptor. How much taller is the smartcap compared to to the cab of the truck?
Hows the wind noise and mpg drop on highway speeds
I lost about 2-3 MPG. The cap itself was flush or only taller by millimeters, once i added rack/tent we got crazy.
How do you like your swing boxes? I was gonna order some for my husbands f350, but the reviews are iffy.
I like them a lot - I don’t like the opening hinges on top, wish it was a little better material but they are useful as heck
Loved my 2018 xlt, v8 in it was awesome. But got rid of it for a 2022 due to multiple electrical issues that wouldn't go away after being fixed. It's 2022 so I got a brand new 60k f150 xlt for less than what I paid for my 18, it worked out. Kept with the v8 tho. Nice truck man
Not going to lie, I’ve had some electrical issues too. But I do love the truck. Thanks for the kind words.
@@ThePerfectWalk All mine were electric. All the lights on my whole back end would stay on to where they'd burn out, radio software glitched all the time
I have 2021 ford f150 raptor 37, do i need to lift a truck to put a smart cab and roof top tent. How much it is going to cost me and what place do you recommend me.
Nope. You don't need to lift a truck to add a cap and tent. That's just about aesthetics and if you plan on doing real off roading and need the clearance
You can sleep in the back seat with a big thick mattress or air mattress
Good job on the video
Thx!!!
How do you lock/unlock when sleeping inside cap?
I don’t.
I like the topper just wish it didn't leak on you. Hate water issues while camping.
That orange stepper is awesome, care to share a link?
Sure! Rightline Gear Moki Door Step,... www.amazon.com/dp/B07JMTVP9N?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
@@ThePerfectWalk thanks!!
I like it all, the F150, the Smart Cap, and the tent up top. My problem is that I like roof racks for ski's, bikes, kayaks, possibly extra storage bins that mount on such, and adding that tent up top I'm not sure what to do about the roof rack. I don't imagine they make that tent so that when closed there are roof racks that can go on top of it? Putting the roof rack above the cab, assuming it won't mess with the door seals where it would be mounted, might not allow enough length for some of those items I'd normally mount up top? I guess the only way to do it all would be to only store stuff in the bed when the tent is mounted up top, which might work some or even most of the time, but it is an issue. Any thoughts on this issue? Either way, thanks. Great review.
bikerumor.com/roofnest-sparrow-adventure-rooftop-tent-is-designed-just-for-cyclists/
i don't have mine set up this way - but it looks possible!
roofnest.com/product/sparrow-adventure/?avad=293233_b30288bb1
@@ThePerfectWalk Hey, thanks so much for those links. Exactly what I was wondering about. Just as an observation, with the cap, then the tent on top, and the rack with bikes on top of that, talk about being potentially top heavy or at risk of high winds laterally. Were I to do a lot of road trips with all of that I might want to do a bit of offset of my tires for a bit of extra lateral stability to lessen the risk of high winds blowing the vehicle over. Hate to think what that full set up would do to mpg. But that is what I was imagining, so thanks for the extra effort.
Bad ass truck.
Well thank you kindly. I appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos - thx!
That rooftop tent when closed, how much does it weigh? Do you find it simple enough to remove and put back on alone when you want to, or does it require two people to do so? Keep the rooftop tent in the garage and just put it on when I may need it. Oh, and love that little step you showed. Great idea. Did that loop it attached to come on the pick up already, or did you have to drill something there?
The loop is there for the step - so that’s a no brainer. I leave my tent on all the time - adding it is a two person job for sure.
Your Ford looks badass👍👍👍
Thx! 👍🏻
There is sun roof!! I am always being carried at the back on the road and even don't know. Thanks for the briefing Wander and I will kick George out from the front seat, or I can stay inside the tent on the road next time.
Which motor do you have2.7, 3.5, or 5.0?
The v8
How much does the smartcap run? I have a hard shell RTT and am looking at getting a new F150 Powerboost to replace my SUV.
It’s pricey! Mine was around $2300 I think - and maybe it’s gone up like everything else lately?
Is that the regular Sparrow or the XL?
XL
Thanks for the tour what a nice setup!
Hey so glad you like it!
I like it. Very nice setup.
Thx Jerry - and thanks for coming by the channel!
Well i certainly subscribed looking for mods to my truck here a hybrid f150 CNG modified. This looks awesome.
Welcome! I hope you enjoy the channel!
Nice rig and great video! I have a 2020 just like it and watching your video gave me some great ideas.
That’s what I was really hoping for - I love messing around with my truck and I am so glad to hear you picked up something useful from the video!
Those over the wheel well swing out storage things need cupholders
Would the tent accommodate a power outlet for a CPAP machine?
I don’t know the answer to that question
Great video! My question is, where did you get the ford emblems?
Great question! Glad you saw those! www.four19designs.com/
@@ThePerfectWalk much appreciated my friend!
Great set up, thanks for sharing this. شكرا
You’re most welcome
That RSI Smartcap is an awesome bed cap. One of these days they'll redesign it to have fine mesh screens on either the large windows or just the small inset ones on the sides, either a permanent redesign or a functional accessory that can be put on and taken off. When they do, I think it will be a near perfect product. Oh, and I just realized though the F150 Raptor and Tremor only come in a 5.5' bed like yours there, the Platinum and below models can come with a 6.5' bed, and I"m seriously considering a Platinum, though maybe a Tremor. That 6.5' foot bed with a Smartcap on it, that would be great given that I'm 6.2. Then no worries about wanting to keep the tailgate open if I choose to sleep inside rather than on top, or have others with me on a trip who will. And if I remember correctly, you can get the RSI Smartcap for both bed lengths. That setup of yours is great looking.
Thanks Nate! Appreciate you watching! I agree that a 6.5’ bed is superior
Great use of that otherwise gimmicky door latch step!
@@ThePerfectWalk If I was to get an F150 with the 6.5' bed, and the appropriate RSI smart cap to fit that, which I suspect is available, my follow up question for you is, do they make a longer rooftop tent to fit above the longer bed, giving me even more head and foot room while sleeping above? And second question, how much do you think, or know, that driving with this rooftop top would decrease mpg? Thanks. I'm seriously considering just getting the newest Raptor, and I assume I could do this same setup on that, but I am still also considering the Platinum, deciding between the 5.5' and 6.5' bed.
Do you think a couple could comfortably sleep in that tent and would you see anything wrong with a kid and two German Shepards sleeping in the bed? Like no overheating or anything in the topper?
I would hesitate to advise on the dogs - I don’t camp with my dogs. As for the couple in the tent - I think it would be no problem - it’s not a king bed but it’s big enough for two
Thank you for the video,nice setup btw
That’s kind of you to say - thanks!
What size and brand are your wheels and tires?
All that should be in the video description
Hey that is a beautiful set up you got there, question, is that smart cap is heavy? Is a beautiful cap but Is it more weight in the bed though right? so it mean that gas consumption is a lot more, how is the truck run with that load? I have same truck as yours 2019 F-150 Super Crew 3.5L Ecoboost FX4 thinking to have that kind of bed and set up like yours, is look pretty awesome, and neat set up. I love it
It weighs 150 pounds, but it can hold twice as much weight as a fiberglass cap.
Grey and white Toyota badge on the cap?
Good eyes! I used to have full stripes on the truck! Left this detail
Im your loyal subscriber ☺️
Hey thanks!
GREAT VIDEO!!! How did you resolve the leaky window problem?
Hey thx friend. I took the seals out, used some flex seal and put them back in. Easy as that.
Pretty nice cap, where can I get that cap, in southern California and how much it cost?
Hey thanks - this is an RSI Smartcap / hit up their website to find dealer
Awesome set up man!
Hey thanks a ton!
Nice rig! Royal Hooks has some awesome billet front tow hooks for the f150. I ordered up the desert tan ones for mine
Thx!
New watcher, new subscriber --- thanks
Welcome to the channel!
I have a sparrow , have a hard time to close..must be strong man..lol I'm 73 and solo..any suggestions?
Are you using the pull strap? I pull my pull strap down and lock it in place loosely with the little cord - and then I tuck the tent and then lock. Which part is giving you trouble? Pulling it down?
I pulled and it just doesn't want to budge,. I finally had to get on top of truck and push it down with my body strength..the pulls just don't work for me..wish it was easier ..thanks for replying back.@@ThePerfectWalk
Do you have any more modification plans for your truck?
Headlights are next I think.
That's pretty cool. I'm just over 6'2" tall myself, and surprised it was long enough, but you fit in nicely. A question though. I'd be tempted to get this, but I wonder, I love the RSI Smart Cap, and I would want one for an F150 Raptor or Platinum, but if I didn't want to drive around with that very nice camper attachment on top, and just have the RSI Smart Cap in place, if I wanted to open the rear smart cap window and the tailgate and sleep inside the smart cap with my head and shoulders out on the open tailgate, is there any kind of a tent extender for the back of the smart cap so that I could enclose myself fully out to the end of the tailgate and as high as the top of the smart cap, one that would keep any rain or morning dew/dampness away from me or the inside around me? Without such an tent extender I could still sleep with my head and shoulders out on the open tailgate and just be open to the night air, which would be nice, but it would be especially nice to have the ability to enclose myself fully while sleeping out the back of the smart cap partly on the tailgate if it is raining or there is a chance of rain or at least morning dew. Oh, and lastly, do you know, can you get bug screens for the small side windows of the RSI Smart Cap, but also for the full large side windows and rear window of the RSI Smart Cap? Actually, one other question, about the F150 itself. With that back seat up, and the side doors shut, do you know what the interior width is precisely? I'm wondering if I at just over 6'2" could lay down across and sleep in there without having to bend my knees or sleep on my side with bent knees. Thanks for any input/insights on these questions. And great review, thorough and useful.
Hey - this may sound a little too cheap - but I would just look for some bug or mosquito netting and some magnets and use the steel of the topper to your advantage - you can click anything you want onto this topper with magnets.
The only problem of course is the aluminum body of the f150 in recent years so you have that to deal with
@@ThePerfectWalk If you sound cheap, then I sound stupid. That's a simple and great idea the netting and magnets. Thanks for sharing.
@@ThePerfectWalk At risk of sounding stupid again, what problems have arisen due to the F150 aluminum body? Your very sound magnet/netting idea would work on the metal cab so any aluminum on the F150 would not seem to impact that, so I am assuming you are referring to other concerns about the aluminum? Either way, thanks for responding. I saw one of these F150's with a RSI Smart Cab on the back within the last hour when I stepped out to run some errands. It looked as good in real life as it does in these videos.
No the magnets don’t work on the aluminum:(. But I’ve found bits of undercarriage to magnet to.
The truck looks awesome, just one question, I don't see any insulation, just metal, does it get really hot on summer and very cold on winter? Thank you.
It doesn't get too hot compared to the outside weather - doesn't behave like an oven...but it doesn't retain any heat in the cold either. So it doesn't really do much for temp. It IS very hot if you don't open the windows in hot weather, because of circulation in a small space.
really good looking build!
Hey thanks man!
Ultra cool truck! I really like it ❤ Thank your for showing us my friend.
Thx for watching
Does the 6" lift make much of a difference?
It does actually - rides higher of course, and it leveled out the truck too. It also makes the whole thing ride a little stiffer and bouncier
Better than 3?
Love your set up. Still like the Smart Cap? Is it noisy when you drive? Rattle?
No noise from the setup - BUT noise from my tires and all the crap velcroed to my seats
What did you do for the wheels and tires?
Wheels are procomp - tires are Yokohama geolanders
How tf do people afford this stuff? Overlanding is so insanely expensive. I mean really 5,000 dollars for the smart cap? A couple grand for the rack and tent? Insane
Hard work my friend, hard work! Not only that but you can get into overlanding on budget builds as well!
We work and earn it
My wife and I have no kids and 3 good jobs. Camping and exploring is our only hobby. I hope you reach a point in your life when you have the disposable income for things that you would like to have. Every piece we have is chosen because it fits our needs the best. Not based on price. But before we had these we camped with Walmart supplies and garage sale camping equipment,
Appreciate the video! I just ordered a 22 tremor for a daily/overlander and love this set up.
Right on! The Tremors are so dang cool!!!
Hey there, you mind sharing info on your rims. I am working on my 2018 f150 navy blue and think the ones you have would look great on my truck. Thanks in advance
You bet. Thx for watching- these are Pro Comp wheels from Four Wheel Parts - not sure if they make this particular style anymore
Got an f150 like that. I just fold up the back seats and it's better than a tent. Nobody has videos like that.
Tons of space for sure!
How do you even fit back there?
I do the same it’s great and can’t get as dirty. Just can’t stretch out is all
You must not be super tall. Lol I would be cramped as hell in the back of my truck. Hah
@@Thexeroxed43 that’s what I’m saying. I’m 6’3”. I wouldn’t be able to sleep
I have a 2015 f150 5.0 with the 302a package magnetic grey super crew with the 5.5ft bed. how much did the lift and tire setup cost you with install?
Believe it or not I bought the truck from the dealer new with the lift and tires. They were done by 4 wheel parts
Great video. What was your previous truck?
2010 f150 xlt super crew
@@ThePerfectWalk 300,000 miles no issues? Nice!
@@FrameRot Yes!!!! I had one issue - replaced alternator at around 175,000 miles. other than that....oil changes and tires and brakes and stuff.
@@ThePerfectWalk great!!!
what are the prices on the build? just out of curiosity could you make a video about more f150 stuff?
My channel is mostly an exploration channel but I will likely do some more truck camping videos
did you have to do anything to beef up your suspension to support the cap and tent (or being in the tent). I just put Fox 2.0 suspension on my 2020 XLT. Do think it will be adequate to hold 2 (normal size) people in the roof tent?
Hey - the entire suspension/lift were built out by Four Wheel Parts - a national brand. Im really not an expert at that particular part of the work, so my plan is always to find someone who is and go ask them what I need to do in order for things to last and be safe.
@@ThePerfectWalk cool. 4 wheel parts did my suspension to level the truck. I'll ask them.
What wheels do you have?
Pro comp from four wheel parts
I have a F150 super cab with a 6.5 ft bed. I can’t find a smartcap anywhere for 6.5.
Yeah _ I don’t know if they make it yet
What type of road noise and at what speeds do you see with this setup? MPG impact?
All the road noise man, all the road noise - and worse at low speed I think - it evens out at higher speeds. I get 14-16 mpg
Nice setup! Have a very similar truck and just starting to look at modifications. Don’t think i will go anywhere near 6”, but wondering about wheel offset? Tire size? Didn’t hear you mention it in the video, apologies if you went through it.
Yeah - sorry about that 38” tires Yokohama geolander. Can’t remember the offset it is minimal
And also - thanks for watching!!