Softopper Camper Issues- Make improvements or refit with RTT?

This is my first summer truck camping in my Softopper setup. I have a 5ft bed, use a Topper Tent and a basic setup with a cot, sleeping bag and power bank. But now it’s summer time and I have some issues:

1. Softopper is like an oven. I bought the mesh back panel to keep the bugs out but to get any airflow, I have to roll the sides up then the flies and gnats want to party.
2. When it’s windy, the Topper Tent flaps and flaps and whips. I can sleep with earplugs but otherwise the flapping irritates me.
3. The Topper Tent isn’t the most water proof. The fabric itself seems to wick moisture so I usually wake up to a wet sleeping back that has soaked wherever it was touching the fabric.

But my biggest issue is the heat/ventilation issue. Are there any suggestions for controlling the heat in a Softopper?

Or is it time to consider moving on to a bar/RTT set up that will have more windows, bug nets and ventilation?

 

You could get some battery powered fans to help with the heat.

But I think you’ve mostly answered your own question. Seems like a softopper setup does not fit your current needs.

 

Do you have a black softopper? Black attracts heat. Same will happen with a black/dark RTT. The RTT can be better with netted windows on either side for crosswind but remember you'll need some air movement to actually produce that. Also, heat rises so there may be some instances it will actually be warmer in a RTT than softopper.

The key is getting the heat out. Electric USB fans at sunset work wonders. Parking under shade. Just some suggestions if you'd like to save some money.

I've used both. Yes the softopper can get warm but in my personal experience, I wouldn't say the RTT stays much cooler to justify the cost.

Regarding bugs, try a search for bed tent / nets. It's basically an extension for your softopper but it's made of net material vs canvas. Could make for some good bug protection and ventilation.

 

I've had both rigid caps and soft topper caps. They both are hot when it's hot and cold when it's cold.

Same with tents. They suck the same.

Even a rigid cap with screens was stifling hot when it was hot out. The screens don't really allow much air flow, but did keep the bugs out.

I'm pretty sure there is no perfect answer to your issues ...besides the Holiday Inn.

 

I am on the look out for one of those "bug room" add- ons for a pop-up awning. Something that would drape the entire truck bed and allow the Softopper sides to be rolled up. I've seen them on-line in the outdoor living section etc.

I already run a two post tarp as a rain fly over the back end. Just a cheap cover tarp from the hardware store.

I don't do well with bugs, heat or stuffy. Winter is fine by me. ;-)

eta

Something like this, https://www.wayfair.com/keyword.php?keyword=outdoor+canopy+tent+screen

then ditch the frame.

 

Here's a couple links for what I was trying to reference.

https://thetoppertent.com/products/soft-top-attachment

https://softopper.com/products/soft...-VScN9BH0LUnT4uWoqeiE1eA2VRy2vwhoCgpcQAvD_BwE

 

This is something I will try as well.
https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/...8de2aff1ae541d052500cb8f06fd2b23&gclsrc=3p.ds

 

That’s a good idea. I’m sure there’s a way I can make panels that attach to the topper when I roll up the sides and Velcro it in somehow.

 

I'm thinking drape the entire softopper from the cab back.

In addition, building on a suggestion that I read here in this forum, I am considering lengths of 1X1-1/2 " hardwood with male snaps spaced to suit the Softopper side panels that would allow the side panels to be outstretched "wing-like". These added parts would also serve to aid rolling the sides up, and be easily stowed between the framework and panels when not in use.

I really need to get some time to work on these "thought projects", but I've been caught in the process of working up the fire wood for next winters heat. 8 cords of hardwood is A LOT of work to cut split and stack!

I really don't need to go "out camping", I live in the woods, eat supper outdoors on the back deck every evening it's not raining, and have an open fire to sit beside after.

 

Hang a mosquito net from the inside ceiling down all around the topper.
Install heat reflective matting between topper canvas and topper framework in the ceiling.

Go safari mode with the net between you & pests. If it rains, drop topper sides but don't snap closed (unless needed) and prop them at a small angle (pvc pipe).

Works for me. I have a 6 ft bed so no tent at the rear.