In this article, we’ll talk about the different uses and comforts of a Campervan or a Pickup Camper with rooftop tent. We’ll look at which age and target groups would be best suited to a camping adventure in Panama in the different vehicles.
The Campervan
The Campervan is the ultimate camping vehicle. It’s got all the comforts you need for an unforgettable trip in Panama. Whether you’re hitting the road along the Panamericana, parking at Playa Venao for the night, or exploring the mountains in Boquete, a campergives you the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. As long as the roads are good, a Morpho Van is all set for any adventure.
The gear you get varies, and you can pick what you want. The basic set has a camping table and chairs, a cooler box, a big sleeping area for two people, and a solar system that gives you the power you need for lighting at night and charging your cell phone or laptop. The mobile shower and toilet are a huge plus if you’re camping away from the beaten path or in the countryside. You’ll also get all sorts of kitchen stuff, like a gas stove, pans and pots, cutlery, washbowls, and soap, plus a little outdoor BBQ grill.
The Campervan is a Volkswagen Transporter that’s always been known as the hippie bus, surfer bus, or simply camping bus, and it still has that reputation today. It’s grown up a bit, and with the added extras and high level of comfort, it can also be used perfectly by the 60+ generation.
But there are some drawbacks, as this is a campervan and not a fully-equipped motorhome. These models don’t have water and wastewater tanks, 24-hour air conditioning, and similar features, but that’s usually not a big deal. The nights in Panama are nice at 20-26 degrees most of the year. And our magnetic mosquito nets are quick and easy to set up and keep you comfortable at night without mosquito bits.
You can get a second mobile solar system as an optional extra for the campervan, which can also be used to operate a Starlink satellite antenna for internet reception in Panama. Please also check out our additional packages.
The campervan also provides a fridge and freezer that can be charged and operated via the permanently installed and a mobile solar system. To keep it running, though, we suggest charging it directly—especially in cloudy weather.
And if you’re traveling with a baby, you can also book a baby seat and a travel bed. The “Fun” package has everything you need, including paddleboards and diving masks. You don’t have to transport these to Panama by plane—you can rent them directly from us.
The Rooftop Tents
The Pickup Camper is a Volkswagen Amarok, an adventure vehicle with 4×4 drive. It’s great for reaching destinations, even in the rainy season, when many roads are too bad to pass. The hardtop on the loading area provides extra comfort, as you can easily spend the night underneath in the rainy season. But really, the main thing the loading area is used for is storing your stuff and the pickup’s extra equipment.
The best part and the main sleeping area is the rooftop tent, which you can count on. Thule, a Swedish brand, makes tents that you can set up quickly. The sleeping area on the roof of the pickup can be set up in less than ten minutes, or three minutes with practice. Climbing up a ladder can be tough for some people, so we only recommend renting a pickup with a rooftop tent up to the age of 60. If you’re feeling young and raring to go, then go for it!
Most of the rooftop tents in Panama are good for two or three people. If you’re traveling with more people, we will provide an extra tent for the ground.
Comparison
As we’ve discussed, there are pros and cons to both a campervan and a pickup camper with a rooftop tent. Let’s break down the space. The Pickup Camper can comfortably fit up to five adults, which is a major advantage over the campervan, which only has room for two adults and a young child.
The rooftop tent on the Amarok always provides a nice cool breeze in the vehicle, which is nice since it’s a bit more open. It’s a breeze to set up, and it really feels like you’re camping.
On the flip side, the campervan has air-permeable and magnetic mosquito nets for max sleeping comfort in the back. You can shield yourself better from other travelers, which can be annoying in the pickup, and you sleep more openly in the rooftop tent.
The campervan’s solar system is a big plus, something you don’t get with the pickup. You can’t put a fixed solar system on the roof of a pickup because of the rooftop tent, but you can book a mobile system with our packages. This independence is important to a lot of people, so the campervan definitely has the upper hand here.
The pickup is a winner in every way when it comes to adventure. The 4×4 drive is awesome and you can reach most destinations in Panama, even in the rainy season, which is something the campervan doesn’t offer. But, as Panama’s road system is very well developed, you can reach almost all destinations with both cars.
Conclusion
The Campervan is the best vehicle for two travelers or a small family with a baby or toddler who want maximum comfort. It’s got everything you need for most tourists in Panama, and if you need more, just book one of our additional packages. It’s suitable for almost all groups of people, regardless of age or fitness level.
The Pickup Camper with rooftop tent is perfect for larger groups of up to five people. While the basic equipment is slightly reduced, additional packages can provide all the necessary comfort. It’s got 4×4 drive, so you can take it pretty much anywhere, even in the rainy season. And with the rooftop tent, you’ll sleep comfortably and get some fresh air. Just remember, climbing the roof with the ladder can be tricky, and it’s not for everyone. If you’ve got any other questions about the different vehicles, just give us a shout!
