While we’ve shed light on the Lance 650 before, quite a few things have happened since we last checked in with this crew, so in the hopes of getting you into the camping game ASAP, I’ve decided to bring the 650 to light once again.
Now, if you don’t know anything about Lance, then this introduction to the 650 is sure to put this crew on your map. For instance, fresh off-the-press 2026 units can be found selling for under $40K in dealers, and some of these units include a plethora of extra gear, so if you’re looking for a bare unit, you may find them even cheaper. Go back a model year or two and watch the savings pile up.
Photo: Lance Camper Mfg. Corp. | REV groupWhile close to $40K may sound like a bit much for a truck camper, this is a Lance we’re talking about, so expect a habitat that can indeed proudly stand up to its price and say, “I’m worth it.”
For instance, the 650 is built and designed for short-bed trucks, while it’s also the smallest and lightest of the Lance RVs. It rolls in with a dry weight of 1,813 lbs.
It also offers 6 ft and 10 in of floor space, even though the unit is 15.5 ft long. The latter is due to the fact that this one is built with a cover design and one that doesn’t make its owners feel like a downright sardine, a feeling that’s carried out through the entire camper.
One reason the 650 is heavy is that it includes everything a typical RV would, but it is stuffed into a habitat that can fit on the rear of your truck. Larger Lance units are even equipped with slideouts and multiple rooms.
Photo: Lance Camper Mfg. Corp. | REV groupThat said, the interior of the 650 begins at the rear of the unit. As we stand in the doorway to the right, Lance adds a three-person dinette, which also becomes an extra berth in the evening.
To our left, on the other hand, believe it or not, there’s a wet bath in place, and not one of those weird and hidden ones either, but a full-blown fiberglass construction with swivel toilets and even vanities. Again, Lance is known and cherished for its ability to offer such features in such small spaces, which is the true definition of compact.
As we head toward the front of the 650, beyond the wet bath, we find nothing more than a complete kitchen. Lance gives us a cabinet storage space to the left of a microwave, and down below, a countertop with a two-burner top and a sink with a faucet is also in place.
But what about the fridge? This feature is actually located at the entrance to the bedroom, which makes for some very relaxing moments in bed with your spouse, but can also be considered a downside or flaw.
Photo: Lance Camper Mfg. Corp. | REV groupBecause the fridge sits so deep into the camper, you risk dragging in mud and grime from outside anytime you want to grab a cold one. Luckily, the floor is laminated, so cleaning it up should be easy.
Last but clearly not least, we have the bedroom, which is accessed by taking a few steps and climbing into your elevated haven. Up here, we have space for two adults, windows on each side, reading lights, and even a skylight.
This interior is supported by features like AC and heating, a gas/electric water heater, and even some light off-grid goodies like 100 W of solar power, a lithium battery, LED lighting, and controls over your system within arms’ reach.
Photo: Lance Camper Mfg. Corp. | REV groupIt’s also important to note that the entire shell is built around an aluminum framework, which is then closed off with dual Azdel walls and stuffed with block foam insulation. Throw on a one-piece roof membrane, and you’re set to experience why Lance is where it is today.
Typically, this is where we would part ways on the 650. However, there’s a bit more to cover, and it all has to do with this camper’s exterior. Since outdoor living is the name of the game, future owners find a power and roll-out awning on their 650, along with outdoor power outlets, LED lighting, a washing station, and prep for just about anything you can think of.
Still, the best way to see if Lance’s 650 is for you is to simply head down to a local dealer that may have any of these babies in stock and see if it’s fit for you. Bring along your significant other and ask their opinion, too. Just be sure to have your funds ready because chances are that you’ll be leaving the lot with a new camper.
