I’m Kevin Black from Vancouver Island in Canada. After I purchased my 2024 Toyota Tacoma Offroad in May of 2024 I immediately started planning my overland build. Having had many different set ups over the years – from a soft shell, hard shell rooftop tent and even a custom built flat bed – after seeing an Alu-Cab setup I knew I had to have one.
Retrofitting a Ranger for a Tacoma
I found a used Alu-Cab Canopy Camper from a Ford Ranger. That meant I had to get to work making the required fitment kit for my Tacoma. Since the Tacoma was an all new redesign, the existing fitment kit would not work, but I had trips planned, which I needed the Canopy Camper for, so I got to work…
I started with an empty shell, then slowly built the interior out exactly how I wanted. The interior is all made with 1” square aluminum, die bond paneling and marine carpet. I wanted to keep the weight down low so I Installed a Front Runner angled water tank (50L) with a 12V pump. This, along with all the lights and my diesel heater, is powered by a Bluetti AC240. I’m using the Charger 1 system to maintain the battery while I drive. I don’t currently have a solar set up as I find I travel every few days to a new location.
Confidence to Explore
Once I had the Canopy Camper fully mounted, I went on my first trip to a river side spot. The first night was spent with friends and my dog, Cedar. Having a rig like this gives me the confidence to pick a spot on a map and just go and explore. The memories created with family and friends will live on forever. Memories that I wouldn’t be able to make without the vehicle I have today.
My most memorable moment was making it to Farnharm Glacier in the Kootney region of British Columbia. I was with a group of friends and we were the first vehicles to gain access to the glacier that year. After spending some time shoveling out the snow on the path, the experience was made even more memorable by the waterfall camp we had that evening.
The 10 Essentials
If I could give any advice to someone starting out, it’s to get the 10 essentials. The 10 essentials is a common term for safety gear when you are going out hiking, but I use the same term and packing list for all of my off-grid adventures.
- Navigation. I bring paper maps and electronic ones. You never know if something will fail on your GPS so its good to have a back up.
- Sunscreen. Trust me.
- Clothing. You want extra clothing for a day or two incase something happens. Its important that this clothing is warm in case the temperatures drop overnight unexpectedly.
- Light. Most phones work as a flashlight, but its good to have a dedicated headlamp or flashlight. Especially if you’re under the vehicle fixing something.
- Recovery kit. If you have to fix something its good to have the right repair tools. Especially a tire repair kit.
- First aid kit.
- Fire.
- Food and water.
- Emergency shelter. The Alu-Cab Canopy Camper a great living space, but if you break down and need to walk for help then this is essential.
- Backpack. You’ll need something to put all this gear into if you have to start walking.
Just Go Explore
You don’t need a fancy rig to start seeing the beauty around you. But it does help make things more comfortable. Starting off with a basic ground tent I worked my way up to the set up I have now.
If you plan on spending lots of time out of cell service, I suggest some sort of two way messaging device. Staying connected with friends and family through a Garmin Inreach, I also always share a rough trip plan before I go out of service.
One Year of Adventure
I have had my Canopy Camper on the truck for just under one year. The ease of setup means I can pull into camp and have my kitchen and bed ready within minutes. This is important after a long day of hiking. Or a long drive to get to a trailhead before I head out to hike the next day.
I’ve explored British Columbia and will head to Haida Gwaii next to tick off some more less explored areas. On the list is a trip to Alaska and the northwest territories which I have been planning for 2026!
Community Makes It Better
When I first installed my Canopy Camper I had no idea the global community that stands behind the Alu-Cab name. So many different companies make products that help enhance the outdoors. The Canopy Camper allows endless customization. The Official Alu-Cab Community Facebook group has more than 15 000 members. It’s so helpful for anyone with questions about Alu-Cab or its products. And it always manages to inspire me to want to travel to places outside of my continent.
Follow my adventures @greatislandadventures. I would love it if my story inspires even one person to get out there and explore nature. Just make sure you bring the 10 essentials, and leave the places you visit better than when you arrived.