Why choose a slide-on camper?

Slide-on campers are less prevalent in Australia than caravans, though the side-on camper concept has existed for some time, with manufacturers such as Palomino in the USA producing slide-on campers since the early 1970s. These units are known by several names—including slide-in camper, glide-on/in camper, ute camper, or truck camper—but all refer to the same basic idea.

A slide-on camper can be attached to a ute, effectively converting it into a motorhome and allowing it to be reverted back just as quickly. This setup provides flexibility, enabling the ute to serve multiple purposes. Slide-on campers eliminate the need to tow additional vehicles, but still permit towing of items such as boats, horse floats, or trailers if required.

When attached, the slide-on camper functions similarly to a standard motorhome. Its modular nature allows it to be removed easily so that the vehicle may be used independently of the camper, which can remain stationary at a campsite. This can help avoid dismantling the camp setup for short trips away from the site.

Reattaching the camper to the vehicle is designed to be a quick process. Slide-on campers can typically go wherever the base vehicle is capable of going and may be used with both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles. They do not require separate registration and do not entail engine or wheel maintenance costs. For tray-back versions, only a standard tray is necessary.

The specific type of ute will affect camper selection, and upgrades to GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) or suspension are commonly needed.