Next to the travel trailer, the truck camper is perhaps America’s most recognized—and classic—type of recreational vehicle. Many of us remember summer vacations with our families and friends—riding up in the cabover—looking out of the window at the stars at night.
Since 1965, Lance Camper Manufacturing of Lancaster, California, has been North America’s largest camper manufacturer. It produces 13 truck camper models for most full-size American pickup trucks—and some compatible with full-size imports like the Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.
The camper on the cover of this issue of RV Life is the 2011 Lance 1191—an 11-foot, 6-inch side-entry model that’s compatible with domestic F-350/3500 Series (and larger) dually long-bed trucks.
The Lance 1191 has so many features that many full-time RVers have downsized to it from large fifth wheels and motorhomes. With its optional fold-down rear tent and dinette bunk bed, the Lance 1191 has room to sleep seven comfortably, so it also appeals to families. And its compact size makes it cheaper to heat or cool than larger RVs.
Once you have off-loaded the camper at the campsite, you have your truck to run around town with, and with this kind of RV you can easily tow your boat, Harleys or ATVs.
The Lance 1191has a suggested base retail price of $30,450.
Two other new Lance campers are updated versions of a model that was once one of the company’s most popular floor plans. Called the Lance 1030, it was a 10-foot model that was perfect 10 years ago for F-350/3500 series trucks and even some heavy-duty F-250/2500s. The dinette was large enough for an adult to sleep on when converted, but the most popular feature was the large dry bath. Lance made hundreds of 1030s.
Advancements in manufacturing left that floor plan behind as Lance moved ahead to basement models and aluminum-framed construction. A couple of attempts at slightly different floor plans were not well received. Dealers and consumers both reminisced about one of the best-selling floor plans of all times, so Lance has decided it is time to upgrade the model and bring it back in new versions called the Lance 1050 and 1050S.
The new models have larger holding tanks, a large cabover wardrobe, and updated appliances and cabinets that are especially sure to please women. The Lance 1050 and 1050S are lightweight 10-foot, 11-inch campers with dry baths—and perfect for any domestic heavy-duty F-250/2500 series (and larger) single-rear-wheel truck. The 1050 is a non-slideout model. The 1050S has a dinette slideout.
The drawers, storage and counter spaces are abundant— and there’s plenty of holding tank capacity for extended trips into the great outdoors.
Company officials say there are indications that the new models will be just as popular as the old Lance 1030. With trucks in the 250/2500 series having more capacity to handle weight, these models should sell well. MSRP is $23,047 for the non-slideout version and $24,787 for the slideout model.
The new floor plans—coupled with the strength of Lance’s LanceLock construction—offer appealing options for camper buyers.
For more information on Lance campers, visit LanceCamper.com or call (661) 949-3322.
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