There’s a reason the Toyota Tacoma is the go-to choice for getting off the beaten path. Generation after generation, its performance and reliability are hard to match. This guide focuses on the 4th-Generation Tacoma, but most recommendations also apply to 2nd- and 3rd-Gen models.
Mounting Options
The Tacoma offers several mounting configurations, each with meaningful advantages. The good news: few vehicles have more aftermarket support, so no matter your setup, you’ll find a compatible solution.
Mid-Height Bed Racks
A mid-height bed rack sits just above the bed rails, giving you enough clearance to mount most roof top tents while still keeping easy access to the bed. It’s a sweet spot between low-profile cab racks and full-height overland racks, balancing load capacity, tent fit, and accessibility.
Mid-height racks pair perfectly with our compact tent lineup:
Skycamp 3.0 Mini
Skycamp DLX Mini
If shopping older used tents: Skycamp 2.0 Mini, X-Cover 2.0 Mini
We don’t endorse a specific rack brand here, but the key requirement is simple: confirm the rack’s dynamic load rating meets or exceeds the tent’s specifications.
Full-Height / Cab-Height Bed Racks
A full-height rack rises above mid-height options and clears the cab, providing maximum room for larger tents or bulky accessories. Because there’s no length restriction, every iKamper tent—Skycamp, BDV, X-Cover—fits on a full-height rack.
Key considerations:
Garage clearance: The added height can limit parking options.
Aerodynamics: Higher mounting height increases wind resistance and may reduce fuel efficiency.
As always, verify the rack’s dynamic weight load rating before mounting.
Canopies / Shells
Canopies (truck toppers) usually sit level with the cab, offering the same full-length compatibility as full-height racks. They provide weatherproof storage, lockable access, and a clean, secure look.
Important considerations:
Weight ratings: Especially for fiberglass canopies, verify load limits. Many require reinforced mounting rails for RTT use.
Aluminum shells: Options like SmartCap are popular because of their strength and consistent load ratings.
Cab / Roof Racks
Cab racks mount directly to the truck’s roof and are best suited for smaller, lighter tents or accessory loads. Space is limited, even on double-cab Tacomas, so we only recommend our mini tents:
Skycamp 3.0 Mini
Skycamp DLX Mini
If shopping older used tents: Skycamp 2.0 Mini, X-Cover 2.0 Mini
As with all mounting options, ensure the rack’s dynamic weight load rating supports the tent.
A Note on Bed / Tonneau Covers
If you'd like to run a cover for your bed, your tent options will be really limited. Given the way bed racks mount to the Tacoma, there's no way to use along side a tonneau. You'll need to stick to a cab / roof rack setup if that's your case.
Still Have Questions?
If you’re unsure about your Tacoma + rack + tent setup, contact our support team and include photos of your current rack. We’ll help make sure everything fits safely.
Example Setups



