Seth Morris' DIY Truck Camper Build

As the lead photographer at MeatEater,Seth Morrishas spent years traveling the world documenting hunts, fishing trips, and backcountry adventures from behind the lens. That time in the field—often in remote, demanding conditions—has given him a deep understanding of what actually matters when you’re living out of a vehicle. Add in the fact that Seth is a serious hunter and outdoorsman himself, and you get a camper setup that’s built from experience, not theory. Every decision is geared toward efficiency, durability, and the realities of camping, hunting, and fishing out West.

The crux of Seth’s setup is the camper shell—a raised fiberglass topper. The extra height adds much-needed headroom, making the space far more livable for extended trips. Windows with screens bring in daylight and airflow, which is clutch when you’re camped for multiple days or dealing with warmer temps. It’s a simple foundation, but one that immediately transforms a truck bed into a functional shelter.

Inside the camper, Seth built a custom bed platform and storage system from wood. The platform provides a solid, comfortable surface for a mattress, while the space underneath is a large drawer. It’s mounted with heavy-duty slides to easily access gear, food, water, and all the essentials that pile up on long trips. Instead of wasted space, everything has a purpose. It’s a straightforward, DIY approach that strikes a balance between comfort and organization.

For food storage, Seth relies on theDometic CFX5 electric cooler, a tried-and-true option for extended travel. It functions just like a fridge or freezer at home—set the temperature you want and let it run—only in a more compact and durable package. As long as the battery remains charged via the truck or solar power, food stays cold or frozen indefinitely.

Water duty is handled byDometic’s water jugpaired with theirelectric faucet. The jug itself is rugged and simple, but the electric tap steals the show, combining a pump, battery, and faucet into one self-contained unit for instant water at the push of a button.

When it comes to cooking, Seth kept things refreshingly modest. A classic two-burner folding camp stove gets the job done, whether he’s cooking solo or feeding a couple of people at camp. It’s reliable, easy to use, and packs away neatly when not in use. No overcomplication—just a proven setup that works everywhere from roadside pullouts to deep backcountry camps.

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