What kind of topper to put on my 2014 tacoma that work great for camping

Thinking my kids could sleep in the bed with some sort of camper shell while the wife and I use a tent. I have a 2014 DC short bed. I'm 6 foot 2 and the short bed is a little short for me but the kids would be fine. Figured I need one with side windows plus would be easier to see out of when driving. ARB, Leer whats the current best options for us?

 

i have a snugtop xtravision -- it's about 15 years old and works great for the purpose you note. i did take my back window out b/c i often have surfboards and fishing poles dangling out the back ... lower the tailgate, put in a pad, slide the windows open and you're good ...

 

I've got a Leer, also great. I think they are all about the same with minor differences. Its worth the extra 100 bucks for carpeted interior. Some brands have coupons that the dealer will usually honor. I'd say go for the dealer that seems more trustworthy or on the ball because they will be installing it and a proper install is key.
Doesnt hut to Check the used market

 

Looks like a nice setup! Do you use a mosquito net when you sleep with the tailgate down? If I wanted to use the bed every six months or so to haul stuff is it a big deal to take it off occasionally?

 

Anybody know of any good dealers in western Washington state?

 

I was looking into the Vagabond and GFC but starting to think they are more of a hassle than benefit when it's your only truck plus the vagabond people never responded to emails.

 

Here ya go

 

Is that a sauna? Where's the wood stove?

 

Looks about as pretty as a vagabond

 

What I did was decided on the brand - I picked ARE but got quotes from LEER models as well which were generally a little bit more than what the ARE models where.

The manufactures website allows you to build them out how you would like it and send them to a local dealer for a quote which I did for 2/3 local dealers next to me then compared on prices and reviews off Google.

I ended up picking the ARE Evolve CX model. Ordered it first of July and was told it would be 5/6 weeks for delivery.

 

Also ARE has some pretty decent specials going on right now.

 

I don’t use a net but that’s a good idea. I take in off every year for the inspection (upper rear light doesn’t work) and other times if necessary — I think it’s easy with 2 others. I also replaced the fasteners with stainless hardware because the originals rusted solid.

 

Seabiscutt88 I like that ARE evolve CX. What did it cost you if you don't mind me asking. Was that on a short bed?

 

Nevermind not a option for 2014 I guess

 

I kinda like the ARE overland. Any thoughts?

 

Could also consider Softopper/BestTop. I use a Softopper, since I can roll up the sides, easily fold down when not in use.

 

I've put Leer Caps with racks on my last 3 trucks. The last two have had the carpet insultation. My old Dakota had the full bed rug liner while my Tacoma I only added the beg rug mat. On the racks, I had the Thule AeroBlade on the Dakota and have the Thule Square on the Tacoma. The square tubes create wind noise, so if you are thinking about racks, get the AeroBlade.

 

I didn't think it was for the 2014s as it was a newer cab but after factory rebates installation and tax included it was $2,800.

Kinda steep... But the LEER models I was quoted on where all over $3K.

 

I’ll just drop these here

 

I think you should seriously consider getting a cap that is taller than the cab if you plan to have a platform in the back. I bought a SnugTop and thought the level with the cab looked better but with a platform I certainly could use the extra headspace after using it a couple of dozen times.

Windoors are an expensive addition but I also wish I had gotten at least one side.

These things are expensive, look used if you have the time. Price can drop dramatically.