Understanding the Lance Six Fifty
The allure of overlanding, the self-reliant travel to remote destinations where the journey is the primary goal, continues to captivate adventure seekers worldwide. This modern-day exploration often demands a specialized vehicle, a rig that’s both rugged and comfortable. While monstrous expedition vehicles are certainly impressive, the trend leans towards smaller, more agile setups. And in this realm, the Lance six fifty truck camper shines as a compelling option. When paired with a capable truck, the twenty sixteen Lance six fifty offers a compelling blend of compact size, off-road aptitude, and comfortable amenities, making it an ideal choice for tackling epic overland adventures.
Overview of Lance Campers
Lance Campers has established a solid reputation for quality and innovation in the truck camper industry. For decades, Lance has been producing campers known for their durability and user-friendly designs. The Lance six fifty occupies a unique space in their product line; it’s their smallest truck camper, specifically designed for short-bed pickup trucks, making it accessible to a wider range of vehicles and owners.
Key Specifications and Dimensions
Consider the key specifications to appreciate the Lance six fifty’s design. While exact weights vary depending on options, its dry weight typically hovers around nineteen hundred pounds, a critical factor when matching it to a truck. The floor length measures around seven feet, allowing for a surprisingly functional interior layout within a compact footprint. Overall length, including the overhang, is approximately sixteen feet, ensuring it remains manageable on the road and off the beaten path. These dimensions are crucial for understanding its compatibility with different truck sizes, typically half-ton or three-quarter-ton pickups.
Floor Plan and Interior Layout
Inside, the Lance six fifty features a well-thought-out floor plan that maximizes every inch. Typically, you’ll find a comfortable bed over the cab, a functional kitchen with a sink, stove, and refrigerator, and a dinette area that converts into an additional sleeping space. Clever storage solutions abound, making efficient use of every nook and cranny. A wet bath (a combined toilet and shower) is sometimes included, depending on the specific configuration. This interior layout prioritizes functionality, allowing travelers to live comfortably for extended periods in remote locations.
Off-Road and Overland Aptitude
The Lance six fifty’s ability to handle overland adventures hinges significantly on the truck it’s paired with. Matching the camper to the right truck is paramount for safety and performance. It’s essential to select a truck with the appropriate payload capacity to safely carry the camper’s weight, including water, gear, and passengers. Overloading a truck can lead to handling instability, premature wear and tear, and even dangerous situations. Half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks are popular choices, but it’s crucial to consult the truck manufacturer’s specifications and ensure the payload rating is adequate. Suspension upgrades, such as heavier-duty springs, airbags, or upgraded shocks, are often recommended to improve stability and ride quality, especially when traveling off-road. Tire selection also plays a crucial role in overlanding prowess.
Suitable Truck Considerations
Various features contribute to the Lance six fifty’s overlanding prowess. A suitable truck will naturally provide high ground clearance, essential for navigating uneven terrain. Four-wheel drive is a must-have for tackling challenging trails and unpredictable conditions. Good departure and approach angles prevent the truck from bottoming out or getting stuck on obstacles. Solar panel options and ample battery capacity are vital for off-grid living, allowing travelers to power appliances and electronics without relying on external power sources. The size of the freshwater and wastewater tanks determines how long you can stay self-sufficient in remote locations. Intelligent storage solutions are also critical for efficiently organizing gear and supplies for extended trips.
Features that Enhance Overlanding
There are, of course, some limitations to consider with the Lance six fifty. Its compact size means compromises compared to larger rigs. Living space is limited, so it’s best suited for solo travelers or couples. Maneuverability can be challenging on very narrow or technical trails, where larger vehicles might be able to handle things easier. Careful route planning is essential to ensure the truck and camper can navigate the intended terrain.
Comfort and Amenities on the Road
Despite its compact size, the Lance six fifty provides a surprisingly comfortable living space. Sleeping arrangements typically consist of a queen-sized bed over the cab, offering a cozy and private sleeping area. The mattress quality is a key factor in comfort, and many owners choose to upgrade to a more comfortable option. The kitchen is equipped with a stove, refrigerator, and sink, allowing travelers to prepare meals on the road. The refrigerator is typically powered by propane or electricity, providing convenient cold storage for food and beverages.
Interior Features
Heating and air conditioning systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable interior climate, regardless of the weather conditions outside. These systems are typically powered by propane or electricity. Entertainment options, such as a television and stereo system, can help pass the time during downtime or inclement weather.
Living Space
The dinette area serves as a versatile living space, providing a place to eat, work, or relax. It can also be converted into an additional sleeping space if needed. The bathroom, if equipped, typically includes a toilet, shower, and sink. While compact, it provides a convenient and private place to freshen up. The overall comfort level of the Lance six fifty makes extended trips enjoyable, allowing travelers to explore remote destinations without sacrificing basic amenities.
Modifications and Upgrades for Overlanding
To maximize the Lance six fifty’s overlanding capabilities, several modifications and upgrades can be considered. Upgrading the truck’s suspension is often a priority. Heavier-duty springs, shocks, and airbags can improve stability, load-carrying capacity, and ride quality, especially when traveling on rough roads.
Suspension and Handling
Selecting appropriate all-terrain or mud-terrain tires is also crucial for off-road traction. These tires provide better grip on loose surfaces, such as dirt, gravel, and sand. Expanding the solar power system and electrical capabilities is another popular upgrade. Adding more solar panels increases the amount of power that can be generated, while adding auxiliary batteries provides more storage capacity. An inverter allows travelers to power AC appliances and electronics, even when off-grid.
Tires
A water filtration system ensures access to clean drinking water, especially in remote locations where water sources may be questionable. Exterior protection, such as rock sliders, skid plates, and brush guards, can protect the truck from damage when navigating challenging terrain. Finally, reliable navigation and communication systems are essential for safety and peace of mind. GPS navigation systems help travelers stay on course, while satellite communication devices, such as a Garmin inReach, allow them to communicate with the outside world in areas where cell service is unavailable.
Pros and Cons
The Lance six fifty offers a compelling combination of advantages for overlanding enthusiasts. Its compact size and maneuverability make it easy to navigate tight trails and crowded campsites. Its off-road prowess allows travelers to reach remote destinations that would be inaccessible to larger vehicles. Its comfortable amenities provide a pleasant living space for extended trips. Its relative fuel efficiency, compared to larger RVs, helps keep travel costs down. Its lower cost, compared to larger overland vehicles, makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious adventurers.
Pros
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The limited space can be a challenge for larger groups or those who prefer more luxurious accommodations. The smaller tanks require more frequent stops for water and waste disposal. Its limitations on very difficult trails may require careful route planning and cautious driving.
Cons
Conclusion
The twenty sixteen Lance six fifty represents a sweet spot for overlanding. It delivers a well-rounded solution for those who prioritize nimble exploration without sacrificing essential comforts. Its strengths lie in its manageable size, reasonable off-road capability when paired with the right truck, and a functional interior layout.
Before making a decision, it’s paramount to consider your specific travel style, the size of your party, and the types of terrain you plan to explore. Research and compare different truck camper models to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the Lance six fifty offers a compelling option for adventurers seeking a compact and capable overland vehicle that unlocks the freedom to explore the world on their own terms. It’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences and self-reliant adventures in the great outdoors.
