No Roads Required

The 2020 Limited Edition Series from Northern Lite promises comfort and function with the ability to handle unforgiving elements.

by

Words by Steve Fennell

Truck campers have come a long way since those trips you took with your grandfather as a kid. It was a time when they were no more than two-tiered, aluminum boxes secured on a truck bed, offering space for two, a small dinette and if you were really living it up, a small head and two-burner stove.

Fast forward to 2020 and truck campers are not only more aerodynamic and functional, but they have caught on with the active outdoor crowd as a viable means of going further in comfort with all the convenience you could want.

Northern-Lite is one of the few premium manufacturers of high-quality, all-fiberglass truck campers and is somewhat of a game changer in this segment. For 2020, its Limited Edition Series encompasses five floorplans ranging from 5 to 5.5 m (16.25 to 18 ft) and what makes them so appealing is the construction and design, qualifying them as a four-season rig. Fish in the spring, use as a basecamp when wheeling in the summer, or enjoy during ice fishing, sledding, and x-country skiing trips in the winter. Or, take off on a multi-day overland adventure with all the comforts of home.

At first glance the models in the Limited Edition series have a sleek, self-contained profile. The centre of gravity ranges from 100 to 122 cm (39.5 to 48 in) (depending on the floorplan) and the dry weight ranges from 1,270 kg to 1,490 kg (2,800 to 3,285 lb). However, one of the key benefits is that Northern Lite models are built to last and more importantly, retain much of their value over the long term.

“It's not uncommon to hear people say that they have owned their Northern Lite for 25 years or longer,” says Warren Darbison, Canadian sales representative for Northern Lite. “So, their longevity is outstanding. However, what's new about our 2020 Limited Edition series is the trim level that we introduced to take Northern Lite models to the next level.”

Construction where it Counts

The exterior consists of two perfectly joined molded fiberglass shells, which are weatherproof and solid. While it’s not a seamless design, it doesn’t need to be. Both are securely attached mechanically with stainless steel screws drilled into a strip of marine-grade plywood, and then reinforced with an adhesive for added strength and bonding. Plus, when both shells are joined, the upper shell overlaps the bottom, thus effectively resisting water, air drafts, and other elements in mild or extreme conditions. Combined with the four, shock-absorbing tie down points, which securers the unit to the truck bed, you’re provided with a rattle-free and quiet ride.

One of the other key elements that qualify the Limited Edition models as a four-season RV is the high level of insulation throughout. It’s tucked away and out of sight. Designers incorporated it in the floor and walls with double insulation in cab over bed to prevent moisture in cooler temps, giving it an impressive R7 insulation rating. The basement, which houses the holding tanks, lines and fittings, is heated via a warm air duct.

The holding tanks are easily managed via a small door on the exterior where there’s easy access to the lines and fittings. This compartment is also completely finished with sealed marine-grade to prevent the building of moisture. Further, it’s flanked by the city water connection plus a handy exterior shower, making washing up after a day on the trails or to rinse down gear quick and easy.

Being off the grid means having all the available power to do it comfortably. The Limited Edition models can house a pair of 6 V batteries for added power and are charged through the engine in the truck, complete with an isolator so the engine battery is never drained. The batteries are also charged through the pair of standard solar panels offering 200 watts of power (that’s available on all Limited Edition and Special Edition models with a 30-amp solar regulator), which trickle-charge the batteries thus allowing users to run any of the 12 V systems in the camper.

Some other exterior highlights for outdoor living include a thoughtful, easy to access pull-out propane storage tray that can house two tanks, a compartment for the permanently installed Cummins Onan 2500 LP generator (only available for the 10-2 EX LE), a box awning on the side with an additional awning at the rear (both are powered from the inside of the camper and have light strips). Plus, all hardware at the rear is rust-free powered-coated aluminum. There’s even an easily accessible, lockable storage compartment that houses a huge storage tray for gear and supplies.

Having a Limited Edition model means you’re afforded a plethora of comfortable benefits on the road. Thanks to the series of plush features, no longer is there is a long (and sometimes sore) drive home to endure after day of activities. Interior height on the Limited Edition models range from an impressive 2 to 2.4 m (6.4 to 6.8 ft) and all-hardwood cabinetry is found throughout, as well as Dometic Thermal windows and skylights, a microwave, and optional Dream Dinette, which conveniently converts to a second sleeping area.

What makes the Limited Edition models even more camping friendly are the removable carpet liners that lift to reveal linoleum flooring to provide easy cleaning and maintenance, while an abundant of storage is found at the rear of the unit with large drawers and even a thoughtfully-placed hanging closet. Of course, entertainment is always important. To get the party going, throw on a DVD with the 24” LED screen or resort to the blue tooth stereo and choose from a range of music from your iTunes library. USB connections are featured throughout including in the galley and even in the light fixtures over the dinette for added convenience. To avoid less draining on the batteries, LED lighting is throughout and the perfectly lit galley is outfitted with a residential-style sink with a cutting board cover, and a three-burner stove top, which also has a cover, providing additional counter space.

Wheeling, fishing, hunting, sledding and skiing are fair games to play when it comes to the function afforded by the Limited Edition series. A great home base to entertain, enjoy meals, or just to rest and relax, each floorplan in the series can pretty much meet your needs and provide a level of comfort to enhance your outdoor experiences.

For more information and specifications on the various floorplans of the Limited Edition Series visit northern-lite.com