Do I really need a pickup truck?

You likely need a truck if you regularly tow a heavy trailer, haul dirty or bulky loads, or carry gear that won't fit inside a vehicle. If you only haul a few times a year, a midsize SUV, a small trailer, or renting a truck can cost far less. Trucks are often pricier to buy, fuel and park. Be honest about how often you will use the bed, then compare total costs of a truck versus the alternatives.