In the evolving world of outdoor adventure, Ovrlnd Campers introduces a revolutionary concept in pickup truck camping: the “Chubby” package. This innovative design aims to transform the traditionally compact truck topper experience, offering unparalleled interior space and comfort. It’s not just a new product but an entirely new category of option, providing a compelling solution for enthusiasts seeking enhanced living quarters without the bulk of conventional RVs, thereby pushing the boundaries of pickup camper innovations.
The ingenuity of the “Chubby” lies in its expanded dimensions. Unlike standard toppers that align with the truck bed’s width, the Chubby flares out, adding an impressive 3.5 inches to each side. This subtle yet significant extension translates into a substantial 7 inches of additional interior width, creating a noticeable difference in a space as confined as a truck bed. This design choice is a direct response to the demand for more usable space within lightweight camping solutions.
A primary advantage of this wider design is the dramatic improvement in sleeping arrangements. The expanded interior of the Ovrlnd Chubby package allows for east-to-west sleeping in full-size truck models, creating a sleeping platform that can reach up to 75×80 inches – dimensions nearing a king-size bed. This generous width not only enhances comfort for two but also opens up the possibility of comfortably accommodating three or even four people, making these spacious truck toppers ideal for families or small groups.
Furthermore, the Chubby package addresses a common challenge for truck campers: fitting a full-length bed into shorter truck beds. By utilizing the increased width, even 5.5-foot short beds can now offer a proper-length sleeping area, allowing individuals around 6 feet tall or under to lie flat without contortion. This flexibility is a significant leap forward for overlanding comfort, ensuring a restful night’s sleep regardless of truck bed size.
The versatility of the Chubby option extends across Ovrlnd’s existing lineup, including the ultralight Bivy cube and the more equipped All You Can Eat and Bread ‘N’ Butter models. Even with the added dimensions, the basic Chubby Bivy shell maintains an impressive weight of approximately 230 lbs, solidifying Ovrlnd’s reputation for producing some of the lightest pickup toppers on the market. This ensures that the benefits of extra space don’t come at the expense of portability or fuel efficiency, aligning with the core appeal of compact RV living.
However, the added width does introduce some considerations. Users can expect an increase of 30 to 50 pounds in overall weight, depending on the model and truck specifications. Additionally, the wider front wall can lead to increased wind resistance, and slight handling degradation might be noticed due to the shifted weight distribution. Navigating particularly tight off-road trails could also become more challenging with the broader body.
Another design adaptation due to the increased width involves the rear barn doors. Unlike traditional Ovrlnd models with 270-degree swinging doors, the Chubby variants are limited to 180-degree openings. This modification was a deliberate choice by Ovrlnd after testing, ensuring optimal durability and security by mitigating torsional forces on longer hinges. A robust latch system keeps the doors securely open at camp, preventing unexpected closures.
The innovative Chubby option is available as a $950 add-on to any of Ovrlnd’s three base models, which start from $7,400 for the Bivy pop-up cube. Each Ovrlnd topper is constructed with durable honeycomb aluminum panels on a square-tube aluminum frame, promising longevity and resilience for all your adventures. This package represents a thoughtful evolution in truck camping, offering a compelling blend of spaciousness, lightweight design, and adventure-ready functionality for discerning outdoor enthusiasts.
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