TRUCK TENTS

These are made of nylon or canvas and attach to the open bed of a pickup truck. They come in sizes to fit most trucks. There also are models that connect to SUVs. Attachments such as screen houses and extra rooms are available. Truck tents are available at these stores in the Valley: » Bass Pro Shops: 1133 N. Dobson Road, Mesa. 602-606-5600, www.basspro.com. » Cabela’s: 9380 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale. 623-872-6700, www .cabelas.com. » Sportsman’s Warehouse: 19205 N. 27th Ave., Phoenix, 623-516-1400, and 1750 S. Greenfield Road, Mesa, 480-558-1111; www.sportsmans warehouse.com. Online retailers include Amazon .com, Target.com, REI.com and RightLineGear.com. trip north because we thought it would be fun. It wasn’t. We set up, ate, slept, ate, tore down and drove. Four hours each day was spent setting up and tearing down our camp. On the fourth night, we pulled into a hotel looking like the Beverly Hillbillies. Now, our rule is at least four nights.

Wherever we camp, our truck tent gets attention. Even owners of expensive motorhomes have come over to inspect our rig.

It now takes a village for us to truck-tent camp. We have purchased a potty tent, shower tent, storage tent, screened tent, changing tent, tables, a stove and more. These add to the cost and are not necessary for everyone. But because we hope to camp for 10 more years, for us it is worth it.

Our men friends think it’s great; my women friends think I’m crazy.