New to the Forum

Hi guys,
New to the forum, just doing my research and due diligence. Trying to figure out exactly what I need and how much I need to save up before making the jump. I tend to do a lot of research before buying any new vehicle. Last time I ended up with my 2014 Subaru Forester XT while I lived in Arizona. I snowboard a lot, and go on many multi week ski trips, as well backpacking and camping trips.
The Forester has been awesome and I love having it, but being 6'2" it's not great for sleeping in the back, or carrying more than 3 people and gear on these long ski trips.
So after some research I'm trying to decide between the Tundra and DCLB Tacoma. So Far I'm leaning towards the Taco, since I think the Tundra is just too big for what I need, and also because the Taco has significantly better fuel economy.

I don't plan to do any crazy off-roading, mostly winter driving.
I'm presently planning for next year's Epic Ski Trip with this route. I will have 3-4 people (including myself) and about 3 weeks worth of gear.

My main concerns are performance in snow, and security of the gear in the back.
I run Blizzarks on my Subaru and have been through some pretty gnarly stuff in it, Since I'll be mostly running on paved roads, I'm leaning towards the TRD Sport.

I was thinking of adding a Truck cap that would still allow me to put racks on top for additional gear. I'm looking at 2017 models, and will keep going through the wealth of knowledge on this forum, but would love addition information from people who use their truck like I intend to.
Especially if you have a rig set up for sleeping in the back, and carrying gear etc.
Any suggestions as far as what options you really wish you had on your truck and any that you think are better done the after market route.
Thanks in advance,
Ditti

 

Welcome to TW!