Hey everyone! I finally joined the club and picked up a clean 2022 Dodge Ram 1500 Big Horn last week. I’ve always wanted a Ram, and I’m absolutely loving the Hemi power and the smooth ride, but I’ve quickly realized that the bed is basically a blank canvas—and not in a good way. Right now, it’s just the bare painted metal back there, and everything I put in it slides around like it’s on ice every time I take a turn or hit the brakes.
I’m looking to turn this truck into a versatile "do-it-all" machine. During the week, I’m usually hauling tools or picking up lumber and supplies for home DIY projects, but on the weekends, we’re loading up the cooler, camping gear, and maybe a couple of mountain bikes. I’m definitely feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer amount of aftermarket parts and accessories available online. It's hard to tell what's actually high-quality and what's just cheap plastic that's going to crack after a summer in the sun.
I’ve been looking at bed liners first—I'm torn between a rugged spray-on or a thick rubber mat to stop the sliding. I’m also really curious about organization. I hate it when my groceries or smaller gear bags end up at the very front of the bed near the cab, and I have to crawl in there like a caveman just to grab them. I’ve seen those swing-out storage boxes and bed dividers, but are they actually durable enough for daily use? Also, for those of you with the 5'7" bed, do you find that a tonneau cover is a lifesaver or just a hassle when you need to haul taller items?
I’ve got about $1,200 set aside to get the bed squared away for now. If you had to start over with a bone-stock Ram 1500 today, which 2 or 3 accessories would be at the absolute top of your list for a mix of utility, protection, and convenience?
In my experience, grab a Dee Zee DZ86972 Heavy Duty Bed Mat to stop sliding and the Tyger Auto T3 Soft Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover. Basically the best utility combo for ur budget, ngl.
just found this thread! in my experience, i'm still learning what works best but i've found some great budget deals: - Herculiner Brush-on Bed Liner Kit (~$100)
- Keeper 05059 Ratcheting Cargo Bar ($40)
- UnderCover SwingCase Truck Bed Toolbox the bar is literally a lifesaver for groceries so u dont have to crawl in there like a caveman. good luck!
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
Yep, this is the way
In my experience, loose gear's a safety hazard! You're gonna wanna secure it. Line-X Premium Spray-On Bedliner offers indestructible durability, but BedRug Classic Bed Liner provides superior cargo protection. Love them!!