Platform campers are one of the less expensive options if you’re in the market, but how well does GFC’s latest offering work?
As midsize trucks get even more popular and more owners have an eye on taking them out for some adventure, platform rooftop tent setups like the Go Fast Campers V2 have been in high demand. The Montana-based company made some improvements to the design first introduced in 2017, resulting in the new V2 Pro platform camper hitting the scene this year. In our latest TFLoffroad video, Andre goes through a full walkaround of this new version.
Over the past several years, Go Fast Campers says it’s built more than 8,000 shells and learned a few things over that time (I’d certainly hope so). To that end, this model brings a list of improvements to the table. There’s a nearly 70% larger viewing area inside the rooftop test, as well as more than 50% more venting area, for a start. All three windows can be opened up, allowing for the better airflow. Multi-color LED lighting comes inside the tent itself and underneath the platform, both of which run off a 12-volt power outlet that modern rigs like the new Ford Ranger conveniently have in the bed.
More details
Speaking of airflow, one of GFC’s biggest concerns for the V2 Pro was dealing with moisture and condensation. The fabric incorporates vents into the top-most points of the tent that are shielded by full-coverage hoods. The idea there is that warm air can passively move through on its own, preventing condensation, while cool air is drawn in when they’re used in conjunction with the open windows. The company says its also improved the zippers it uses around the tent windows for easier use, and so the zipper pulls don’t rattle.
As far as sleeping accommodations, the GFC V2 Pro camper uses the same 3-inch “Turbo Nap” dual density form as the later-production (November 2023-June 2024) V2s. Prior V2 models had a 2-inch foam mattress. Side pockets near the front window are another tweak to the design, as are other small storage points inside the tent including some underfloor cubby.
Now, if you’re looking to fit this sort of upgrade to something like a brand-new Ranger, you will still need to set aside some serious cash. Pricing starts at $8,450 and heads north from there depending on options you select like a beef rack, tent windows and a cabinet add-on. With installation, a fully-kitted V2 Pro for a new Ford Ranger could set you back more than $12,170. If you already have a GFC V2 and don’t want to completely replace it, the company does sell a retrofit kit that you can use to get most of the upgrades for between $2,000 and $2,800 (although they’re currently on sale for about $800 to $1,000 off, at time of writing).
Check out all the details in the video below:
