What Size Canopy/Cap Fits my Truck?

Published August 4th, 2022 by Allen Campbell

what size canopycap fits my truck

Planning on purchasing a canopy for your truck? It’s necessary to pick the correct size to make sure that it is fixed appropriately. In this post, I’ll provide you with some tips on how to select the right size canopy for your truck. 

I’ll also provide you with some information on the different types of canopies available on the market. So, if you’re wondering what size canopies are present and what might be good enough for your ride, let’s take a look.

What Size Canopy Fits my Truck?: Summary

Choosing The Right Size Cap for Your Truck Model

There are numerous options available when it comes to finding the right truck cap for your needs, including high-rise and flat options. Understand the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you get a perfect fit. 

For example- a full-size truck with a short bed will have different needs than a long bed truck. The same is true for mid-size trucks and compact trucks. To get the best fit, be sure to calculate the dimension of your truck’s bed before you shop for a cap.

Buying a truck cap that is too big or too small can result in damage to your vehicle. Take your time to find the right truck cap for your specific vehicle to avoid problems at the time of camping because an ill-fitting cap can also cause significant leaks.

 

Outside Box Length

Outside Box Width

CHEVY / GMC

  

GM Full-Size Truck

  

Starts From

100 1/2″

71 1/2″

Ends to 

73″

56 1/2″

GM Compact/Midsize Truck

  

Starts From

93 1/2″

62 1/2″

Ends to 

58 3/8″

58 1/2″

DODGE

  

Dodge Full Size Truck

  

Starts From

101″

72 3/4″

Ends to 

68 1/4″

70″

Dodge Midsize Truck

  

Starts From

99 1/2″

63 3/4″

Ends to 

67 1/4″

62″

Dodge Compact Truck

  

Starts From

91″

60″

Ends to 

74 1/2″

58 1/2″

FORD

  

Ford Light Duty

  

Starts From

100 1/2″

73″

Ends to 

81″

63″

Ford Super Duty

  

Starts From

100 5/8″

73″

Ends to 

100 5/8″

73″

TOYOTA

  

Starts From

100″

71 1/4″

Ends to 

63 1/4″

57″

Why You Should Get a Truck Cap/Canopy in the First Place?

I found that pickup trucks are one of the most popular vehicles for everyday use due to their canopy. This allows you to take care and protect your precious cargo from rain or the sun with ease. 

The added security of a canopy helps to deter thieves and with the help of a canopy, you can easily carry whatever you may need without worry – whether it be groceries or tools.

The truck cap/canopy not only gives you the benefits of security and protection from the elements, but it also helps to provide an amazing and comfortable camping setup.

It helps to avoid any stressful setup because all you need are some blankets and pillows to sleep comfortably. Plus, with the built-in storage areas, you can keep all of your belongings in one spot without having to worry about losing anything. This is especially convenient if you want to take all your belongings with you. 

With a quick removal of a Truck Cap, you can easily have an uncovered truck bed for cargo at any time – perfect for when you need it most.

Types Of Truck Caps/Canopies:

Commercial Truck Caps

Commercial truck caps are particularly tough and durable, making them ideal for those who work on the road regularly. With thick walls and no windows, they can easily withstand being knocked over, making them perfect for protecting your belongings. 

Also, depending on the size you choose, you can have plenty of space inside for standing.

Commercial truck caps are the most expensive option among all the other varieties of caps available in the market. However, they make up for it in the form of shelving units that can be used to store various items. 

But the major drawback is that it significantly reduces the sleeping space. If you are looking for a simple and affordable option, then a recreational-style canopy would be the better option.

Fibreglass Truck Caps

Fiberglass Truck Caps are more suitable for those who want to camp with their vehicles, due to their durability and easy customization options. You can have your fiberglass truck cap ready in different variety of colors and heights.

One thing you should keep in mind is that they are a bit heavier than aluminum truck caps, but if you have big springs, it shouldn’t be much of a problem. Additionally, fiberglass caps can be designed to include features such as doors and windows, meaning you can tailor them to your specific needs.

Aluminum Truck Caps

I would suggest you go with an aluminum canopy if you are looking for a truck cap that is light in weight. They come in both thicker and thinner walls, so you can choose what best suits your needs. Plus, they are cheaper than fiberglass versions. But it has a major drawback: they are not as durable as fiberglass.

You will find that they dent easily, especially on anything sharp like rocks or tree branches. In the rainy season, it’s also not ideal to sleep in your truck with an aluminum canopy as they create too much noise in the rain. As a result, you will likely get frustrated with all the noise of rain.

Also, another downside is that there are not many color options to choose from with aluminum truck canopies. Most companies stopped making recreational truck caps altogether because aluminum is not the preferable choice among buyers.

Wooden Truck Caps

Wooden Truck Caps are usually custom-made by a skilled craftsman and they are very difficult to find at every store. These canopies are usually made by a skilled craftsman who knows how important durability really is. 

Making a customized canopy has the benefit of allowing you to create the way you need. However, making a canopy from scratch can be expensive and time-consuming. If you want a cheaper and faster option, you can opt for a fiberglass canopy instead.

Canopy Size/Style

As if you are looking for a new canopy for your truck, you will likely come across two of the most popular styles: the cab-high and high-rise models.

Regular or Cab-high

I really like the classic look of the regular/cab-high truck cap because it’s clean looking and more aerodynamic. It also allows you to drive your truck without sacrificing any clearance, which is an important factor to take into account. 

The cap remains at the same level as the cabin, providing both sleekness and benefits in terms of wind resistance.

All these reasons together make it an excellent choice for those looking to keep things clean and simple. But you will not be getting enough space for headroom if you are tall. With this drawback in mind, you should only select this option if you are of average height or shorter.

Mid/High Rise

I have seen many people saying that high-rise canopies for truck camping look very odd, but I don’t think so. If you need more storage and headroom, then this type is right for you. I personally love high-rise canopies because they offer more flexibility in terms of cargo capacity.

Most people don’t consider the aerodynamic downside, but it’s really not a big deal. So it’s really just a matter of choice.

Optional Truck Cap/Canopy Features

Headliner

Every fiberglass canopy doesn’t have any insulation to keep you warm or cool, but you can upgrade it by adding a carpet headliner. It will help as an additional layer of insulation to reduce the moisture inside the camper shell. Winter camping will be more comfortable with this addition, as it will keep you warm during those cold months.

Windows

Windows plays a big role while spending time in a canopy as it provides ventilation and light. Mostly, campers have two windows on each side and one rear-facing window. 

Practically, all you need are the two sliding windows to keep a comfortable temperature while sleeping. It will provide you ample amount of light and fresh air. However, you will need to buy blackout curtains to close them during sleeping hours if you want complete darkness in your tent.

Bug Scree

I highly recommend you purchase a bug screen for your windows so you can enjoy nature without the little blood suckers ruining your night. This will help keep them out of your canopy and away from you while you sleep.

Roof Rack Compatibility

You can easily carry your boat, kayak, or other watercraft on top of the car with a Roof Rack. Most of the canopies come equipped with roof rails that make it easy to carry your belongings without any hassle.

Lock

It is very important for you to have a lockable canopy when you are camping, as this will help to prevent thieves from taking advantage of your unattended vehicle.

Lights

You can enhance your canopy interior by installing LED lights on the roof. This will provide you with a better view of the inside of your camper and make it more enjoyable to spend time in.

Choosing a Cap/Canopy for Your Truck: The Bottom Line

So, what size canopy should you buy to fit your truck? It relies on the manufacturing company and the year of the truck. There is a huge variety of canopy sizes to choose from that will fit your trucks. 

The best way to find the right canopy for your truck is to measure your vehicle and compare those dimensions with the sizing information provided by the manufacturer. With a little research, you can find the perfect canopy for your truck and start enjoying all the benefits that come with having one.

Allen Campbell with Master Canopies

Allen Campbell

Allen is a full time writer at Mastercanopies.com and enjoys traveling around the United States and exploring nature. He enjoys writing about canopies as he believes they are extremely crucial in having a successful camping trip whether it be a trip to the beach, mountains, or the open plains.

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