Owner Review Of The Northstar 850sc Pop Up Truck Camper

Nathan Jahnke

2 min read

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30-12-2024

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For years, I’d dreamt of exploring the backcountry in comfort and style. My solution? A pop-up truck camper. After extensive research, I settled on the Northstar 850SC. Now, after six months of ownership and several trips, I'm ready to share my honest review.

What I Liked:

• Lightweight and Maneuverable: The 850SC's relatively low weight is a major advantage. My truck handles it with ease, even on challenging terrain. The smaller footprint compared to hard-sided campers makes navigating tight spaces and forest roads a breeze.

• Surprisingly Spacious Interior: Despite its compact exterior, the interior space is surprisingly generous once the camper is popped up. The layout is well-designed, maximizing storage and living space. There's ample room for two adults, and even a small dog could comfortably join us.

• Solid Construction: The Northstar 850SC feels robust and well-built. The materials used seem high-quality, and I have confidence in its durability. It's withstood some fairly rough roads and weather conditions without any issues.

• Efficient Features: The camper is equipped with a surprisingly efficient propane system, providing hot water and a reliable stovetop. The solar panel option is a valuable addition, providing power even when off-grid.

• Easy Setup and Tear-Down: Setting up and taking down the camper is relatively straightforward, even for a solo camper. The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes, which is significantly faster than some hard-sided options.

What Could Be Improved:

• Limited Counter Space: While the interior is spacious, counter space in the kitchen area is somewhat limited. This isn't a major issue, but it does require some careful planning when preparing meals.

• Ventilation: Ventilation could be improved. While there are windows, on particularly humid nights, it can feel a bit stuffy. Adding a dedicated fan would be a worthwhile upgrade.

• Storage for Larger Items: Storage is generally good, but larger items, such as camping chairs and a cooler, can be a challenge to fit. Exterior storage solutions might be necessary for those carrying a lot of gear.

Overall Impression:

The Northstar 850SC pop-up camper has exceeded my expectations. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight, maneuverable, and relatively affordable way to explore the outdoors. The build quality is excellent, and the features are well-designed. While there's room for minor improvements, the positives significantly outweigh the negatives. I highly recommend this camper to anyone considering a pop-up truck camper. Four out of five stars.