Whether you're a seasoned adventurer upgrading your gear or a rookie preparing for your first off-road 4WD experience, you're probably thinking about picking the perfect camping canopy setup.
With many options available, from the canopy type to essential ute accessories, making the right investment demands thorough research and expert advice.
Continue reading as we discuss the essential factors for creating your ultimate camping canopy setup.
Different Canopies Available in the Market
Tub toppers or canopies are a budget-friendly way to increase the usable and secure space in the back of your Ute. Instead of investing in a tray and canopy setup, which can cost around $20,000 for a high-quality one, you can opt for a tub topper.
Modern Ute canopies offer strong, attractive, and reasonably priced options that can be installed onto your existing tub in just a few hours. Let's explore what's available.
1. Aluminium Canopies
Aluminium canopies are a great choice if you need something tough and lightweight. They're known for being strong and stylish, which is why many people like them. Although they might cost more upfront, they can carry heavy loads, up to 250 kg dynamic, makes them worth it for those who haul a lot or want to add a rooftop tent and awning.
Aside from being tough and light, an aluminium ute canopy has other advantages.
- They have big side and rear doors that make it easy to get to your stuff, so loading and unloading is a breeze.
- Plus, they're highly customisable, meaning you can tailor them to fit your needs.
- You can even add things like built-in racks or lighting.
When picking the right canopy for you, it's important to look at all your options. While aluminium canopies might be pricier than other choices, their many benefits make them a smart buy for folks who need something tough and dependable.
2. Fiberglass Canopies
Fibreglass canopies are the go-to choice for Dual Cab 4WDs for several good reasons:
- They offer protection from the weather, are light yet sturdy, and add extra storage room to your vehicle.
- With a fibreglass canopy, you can conveniently carry and organise tools, camping gear, or any other gear you need for outdoor adventures.
- Plus, you can personalise fibreglass canopies with features like windows, locks, and roof racks to match your needs.
Because of how they're made, fibreglass canopies are often the most affordable and lightweight option available. However, they might not be as strong as other materials. This means they have limits when it comes to carrying heavy loads on the roof, even with added internal support.
Despite this, fibreglass canopies are still a versatile and practical addition to any Dual Cab 4WD, offering both utility and style.
3. Custom Canopies
Going custom is the way to go when it comes to ute canopies. Here are some ways custom ute canopies can work smarter for you:
1. Integrated Rails:
Integrated roof rails maximise your ute’s load capacity without any hassle. They’re always ready to use, secure, and solid, ensuring your extra load is well-supported.
2. Customized Openings:
With a custom roof canopy, you can choose the type of opening that suits you best. Check all the options, whether you need multiple doors for flexibility or a single door for ease of use. There are various glazing options, from sliding windows to solid panes.
3. Ute Tents:
Adding a ute tent to your canopy opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you need shelter for remote work sites or want to save on accommodation costs during your outdoor adventures, ute canopy customisation provides flexibility and freedom.
4. Customized Style:
The custom ute canopy design is made from strong, lightweight auto-grade aluminum. They can be powder-coated to match your ute's appearance seamlessly or coloured to align with your business branding.
By opting for a custom ute canopy, you get a solution that will perfectly fit your needs and style, ensuring maximum functionality and aesthetics.
4. Steel Canopies
Steel canopies are a solid choice for 4WD vehicles. They share many benefits with alloy canopies, including the ability to carry heavy loads and providing easy access with large doors. However, Steel Tub Toppers can be heavier than alloy ones and are more prone to rust and cracking issues.
The price of steel canopies can vary widely, depending on the type of steel used and the quality of craftsmanship.
Generally, a higher price indicates better durability and longer lifespan for your canopy.
Important Factors To Think About When Selecting A Ute Canopy
1. Appropriate Design And Dimensions
When it comes to aluminium canopies, there are different types to suit various needs. Here are the three main styles:
a. Half Canopies
These are great if you need space in your tray for things like building materials or large items. A half canopy gives you the flexibility to store tools and equipment safely while leaving room for bulky items.
You can also customise it by adding an interior fridge slide for extra convenience.
b. Full Canopies
A full canopy is the way to go if you want maximum security and protection. Full aluminium canopies come in different sizes to fit various Ute models. They have dual locking systems, weather-resistant coatings, and a dust-proof seal to protect your gear from the elements and prying eyes. They are perfect for storing tools, equipment, and other valuable items year-round.
c. Toolboxes and Modules
The modular steel and aluminium toolboxes are ideal for those needing a secure storage solution for tools and equipment. These alternatives to canopies provide designated spots for your tools, keeping them organised and safe even during rough journeys or between jobs. They are available in different sizes to fit different chassis and suit the needs of various tradespeople, such as plumbers, carpenters, miners, and electricians.
4. Factoring In The Weight Element
Deciding on the right aluminium canopy for your vehicle involves thinking about how much weight it can handle.
Many aluminium Ute canopies have internal RHS bracing, which makes them sturdy enough to support up to 300kg on the roof without damage.
5. Storage Capacity
When choosing a Ute canopy, what you need to store is a big factor in deciding which option is best for you. Whether it's dedicated pull-out tool drawers, appointed toolboxes, or large aluminium canopies, your storage needs will shape your choice.
For those who often carry bulky items in the tray, a half canopy offers extra space. It's perfect for accommodating larger loads while still keeping your tools and equipment safe.
If you have a furry friend accompanying you on your journeys, you might want to consider a Ute canopy with a dog section. These designs provide shelter and security for your pet, with a reinforced floor and a separate area to keep them safe and comfortable while transporting your gear.
6. Accessories
When outfitting your canopy, you'll find a variety of ute accessories to choose from, both for the inside and outside. Here are some key considerations for creating the ultimate camping setup:
a. Kitchen Accessories:
- Fridge Options: Decide between drop-down or upright fridges. With Norweld Deluxe canopies, you can choose upright fridges or Clearview Easy Slide for chest-style fridges up to 80L. If weight is a concern, go for an upright fridge.
- Meal Preparation Spaces: Look for built-in features like table drawers to make meal prep easy on the go.
- Cooking: Choosing the right wiring package is important for powering cooking appliances like air fryers and coffee machines. Talk to an expert to make sure you choose the package that suits your needs.
- Pantry: Turn your canopy into a mobile pantry stocked with all the essentials, so you're always ready for a meal wherever your adventure takes you.
b. Canopy Inventory
Whether you're preparing for a trip on the Birdsville Track or balancing work and camping, having a Ute canopy with various storage options will maximise your vehicle's potential. Here are some canopy storage options to consider:
- Toolboxes
- Heavy-duty drawers
- Shelving
- Roof rack setup
- Slide-out tables
- Carry cases
- Pantry
- Jerry can holders
You just have to make sure everything is dust and waterproof so the elements stay on the outside.
c. Roof Top Tents
When considering purchasing a tent for travel, it's important to evaluate your current camping preferences. Reflect on whether you are satisfied with your current camping setup, such as a swag, tent, or camper trailer.
Consider your preference for convenience, such as quick access to a toilet during the night or your willingness to navigate a ladder in the dark.
Advantages of a Rooftop Tent:
- Raising above the ground provides safety from animals and insects, giving you peace of mind while sleeping.
- Rooftop tents are designed for efficiency. They can be set up and packed away quickly, saving you time and effort compared to traditional tents.
- A rooftop tent gives you a comfortable sleeping space wherever you go, turning your vehicle into a mobile home. This is especially useful for road trips and remote adventures.
- Many rooftop tents come with the option to add awnings and windbreaks. This creates extra sheltered space for cooking, relaxing, or storing gear, enhancing your camping experience.
Disadvantages of a Rooftop Tent:
- Having a heavy tent on the roof can affect your vehicle's balance and handling, especially on rough terrain. This could make driving more challenging and less safe.
- Rooftop tents, including any attached awnings, can add around 100-160 kg to your vehicle. It's important to ensure your vehicle can handle this additional weight without affecting its performance or safety.
- Once installed, a rooftop tent can limit how you use the space in and around your vehicle's canopy. This could be inconvenient for daily activities or accessing certain gear.
- The added height of a rooftop tent can make it difficult to park in garages, carports, or areas with low clearance. This can restrict where you can take your vehicle.
- Rooftop tents can be expensive. Beyond the initial purchase, you may also need to invest in compatible roof racks, awnings, and other accessories, which can add up quickly.
d. Roof Racks
Instead of a rooftop tent, you might think about using roof racks. They're perfect for creating extra storage space in your canopy. You can store big and heavy items like camping gear, tables, kayaks, and bikes in your vehicle.
Plus, roof racks offer more than just storage. They also come with features like mounting spots for awnings and tie-down points, adding even more functionality to your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ute canopy?
A ute canopy gives you more space on your vehicle, allowing you to carry more equipment and increasing your load capacity. These canopies sit on your tray, making the space bigger than just using the ute tub alone.
Can you sleep in a ute canopy?
Yes, you can sleep in a ute canopy. Using a ute canopy as your camping shelter is often more convenient than setting up a tent on the ground.
Are ute canopies waterproof?
Ute canopies are weatherproof, not waterproof. This means they can handle rain and normal weather conditions but may leak if subjected to high-pressure hoses or car washes.
Summing It Up: Last Thoughts on Selecting Your Ideal Ute Canopy
A canopy isn't just an add-on for your use; it's an extension that boosts its usefulness, appearance, and worth. Whether you're a tradesperson, adventurer, or family person, investing in a canopy expands your ute's capabilities.
However, like any investment, especially for prized vehicles like a Ford Ranger or Mitsubishi Triton, thorough research is vital. Dive into your needs, prioritising quality and functionality over looks. In the world of utes, where every turn offers adventure, a canopy becomes your trusted ally, ensuring every journey is memorable.
OZI4X4 offers premium aluminium canopies that provide top-notch functionality and durability. They ensure a safe and secure space for your cargo, protecting it from harsh conditions. With options for alloy and aluminium, our canopies withstand tough environments without sacrificing performance. Order your ideal ute canopy from OZI4X4 today!
