This post may contain affiliate links so we may receive compensation if you sign up for or purchase products linked to below. As an Amazon Associate, I can earn from qualifying purchases. Read our disclosure for more information.
I hope you’ll agree with me when I say:
“Touring and camping are such great adventures that everybody yearns for one. However, if you are not well prepared, you will be dismayed by how low the performance will be.”
Are you going to plan a road trip in the near future? If so, you would have to be equipped with the best gear to have the best time of your life. There are numerous activities that you can explore out there to have the best holiday or weekend trips. Camping close to nature is one of the favorite activities for many people. However, one major problem with this activity is setting up camps on the rough surface that is close to insects and other prowling animals like bears.
If you are facing such hurdles of not being comfortable with your tent on the ground, all you need is a rooftop tent. Such tents save you from numerous insects, rocky surfaces, and hard setting up procedures. These RTTs will save you immense time and effort as well. As these mount upon the roof of your vehicle, you will feel safer with them.
Best Rooftop Tents Reviewed
Here are our recommendations for the best rooftop tents reviewed to help you pick the perfect brand for a guaranteed safe & comfortable camping experience:
1.iKamper Skycamp 2.0
iKamper assumes the happiest moments are to explore, experience, and travel around the globe with those whom company you enjoy the most. Although iKamper goods are manufactured with pride at the South Korean factory, their 100 percent USA-based staff is there to help offer you the greatest overall local experience. iKamper USA has its headquarters in Seattle, WA, and its products are delivered and packaged in the US. The brand has created a strong image in the industry through the production of quality tents. From their diverse and successful line-up, here are our two cents on the Skycamp 2.0 by iKamper.
Whereas, it will not be fair to mention the tremendous upside of this Skycamp by iKmaper. At this side, you will find a protracted list of beneficial factors. As far as the set-up procedure of this model is concerned, it does not require much time. You will only have to invest one minute in setting it up. As it is light in weight, your vehicle will not have to bear much weight on it. Hence, there will be no negative effects on your truck or car. The comfortable king-size mattress in there provides ample space for up to four people to sleep in there. With the sleek and aerodynamic design, you will be able to store it in compact places, and it won’t get damaged on the highway while you are driving as well.
As the company allows you to get this cargo tent customizes, you can get it in your favorite color and choose different suitable accessories as per your requirement. Additionally, the insulating poly-cotton canvas tent fabric makes this tent well-ventilated. So, no matter if it’s hot out there, you will have a comfortable night here. The featured hard shell locks on this rooftop tent make it more secure. It comes with two keys for you to open these locks. The stainless steel frame sets up a sturdy foundation for this RT tent so that it never collapses. As it is resistant to water, you won’t be having any problem even if it is raining.
All in all, iKamper Skycamp 2.0 brings a lot to the table. On the upside of this model, the easy installation, quick set up time, ample space, and breathability, all these factors contribute to making it a successful and promising option for you to have. However, the underside does not remain any behind, as there are multiple drawbacks there as well. On one side, the Skycamp 2.0 is exceptional in handling rain due to waterproof polyester, but on the other side, you will not be impressed by the fact that it cannot stand strong against strong winds.
Pros |
---|
1 Minute Set-up |
Comfortable king-size |
Density memory foam |
Lightweight |
Sleek Aerodynamic Design |
Customizable |
Breathable |
Hard Shell Locks |
Stainless steel frame |
Waterproof |
Cons |
---|
Thin mattress |
Side entrance only |
2.Roofnest Falcon
Roofnest is a top-notch brand with a goal to take a break from the everyday ambiance of your regular life and indulge yourself in nature to renew, calm, and inform you of what matters the most. They render camping outdoors safe, affordable, practical, and pleasant by designing sturdy and simple-to-use rooftop tents for campers of any level for a delightful experience. It is the team’s vision to bring every client closer to the glory, wonder, and adventure of the great outdoors. Here, let us have a discussion on one of their top models known as Roofnest Falcon.
Whereas, as far as the upside of the Roofnest Falcon cargo tent is concerned, numerous advantages are present to offer you the most facilitating adventure close to the natural setting. First of all, the best thing about this model is that it is waterproof with a rating of 3000mm. Having this featured will put you at ease in case of rainy weather. When it comes to the installation procedure and set up the tent, you will be pleased by both these points. The installation procedure will not require much effort from the user. Moreover, the tent pops up quite quickly for your use. So, you will not have to invest both effort and time in this model. The sleek design makes it easy for you to store, as it is less than 7 inches thick when closed.
Apart from all these pros, the fact that it is made up of honeycomb aluminum shell makes it quite sturdy and ever-lasting. You will have no issue regarding the durability of the product. The mesh screen used in the unit will allow the air to pass through and maintain the inner temperature during the summer season. The tent comes with three doors having zipper closure for your convenience. As it features a built-in seven cm mattress as well, you will not be getting any discomfort while sleeping. The ladder that comes along this RTT is foldable and lightweight yet sturdy. As this tent is capable of handling weight up to 650lbs, you won’t have to worry about your gear as well as you being in there.
In a nutshell, the Falcon by Roofnest is one of the top models in this category. By providing plenty of facilities, this tent can get you hooked to it. The level of comfort that it offers due to the mattress is matchless. Plus, as it is both waterproof and breathable, you will not have to bow down before the harshness of the weather. The multiple doorways add to the level of convenience that you will get with this option. Whereas, at the downside, you will have to deal with the less head-space, less aerodynamic design, and hefty price. However, the durability of this roof top tent cannot be questioned due to the sturdy frame construction.
Pros |
---|
Waterproof |
Installs easily |
Instant set up |
Aluminum Honeycomb Shell |
Mesh material |
Zipper closure |
Three doors |
7 cm foam mattress |
Collapsible lightweight ladder |
Supports up to 650 lbs. |
Cons |
---|
Less headroom |
Less aerodynamic |
Relatively expensive |
Check It Out On roofnest Store
3.iKamper X-Cover
iKamper is one of the best-selling brands that has been contributing to the sector for a long period. The expertise that the team of this brand holds is truly commendable. It is evident in their massive product line-up as well. Every roof top tent that they launch sets up high competition in the market. With the innovative designs and top-notch quality, the iKmaper lives up to the expectations of its clients. The brand has worked to introduce various fantastic models out of which iKamper X-Cover outshines itself. So, let us move on to know about the offerings of this model in detail.
Whereas, there is a broad domain of plus points that iKamper X-Cover model arrives with. All the beneficial features work excellently to appeal to the masses. The patented design of this model sets you free from carrying other bulky and heavy models available. As this tent is made from waterproof polyester fabric, you do not have to worry about the uncertainty of the weather. The use of insulating poly-cotton canvas in the making of this model makes it highly breathable so that you or your family do not feel suffocated in there. This tent comes with a built-in king-size mattress with appropriate thickness to offer you the highest level of comfort during your trip. It is capable of accommodating 3 to 4 people with the ample space that it offers.
Apart from the spacious nature and other qualities, the main highlight of X-Cover by iKamper is that it saves you much space in your vehicle by allowing you to mount your camping gear such as bicycle, inflatable paddle board, etc. on it. The cross bars on top of this unit allow you to do so with a maximum weight capacity of 65 lbs. The setting up procedure is quite fast as well. As this model comes with mounting brackets 2.0, you will have no inconvenience in installing it in your car. The powder-coated aluminum bars help in making the frame robust and durable. Moreover, this frame does not make the whole tent heavy. So, the lightweight nature of X-Cover RTT makes it easier for you to handle. You can customize it by adding the accessories that you want.
The X-Cover by iKamper with its open and airy design suits many people. As it offers you different advantages in combination with the facility to sleep under the starry view of the sky, you will definitely feel hooked to this model. The best part about it is that you can easily mount additional gear on top of it. As the ladder that comes with it is easily adjustable and collapsible, you will have no problem in using it either. However, you will have to store it separately in your car, and with this tent, you will only get a single entrance. But, the sturdiness, waterproof nature, and many other qualities clearly manage to win over the cons.
Pros |
---|
Patented design |
Waterproof |
Insulating Poly-Cotton Canvas |
Quick setting up process |
Cross bars |
Powder-coated aluminum bars |
King-size mattress |
Light in weight |
Mounting Brackets 2.0 |
Open design |
Cons |
---|
One entrance only |
4.Tepui Ruggedized
Tepui Outdoors Company began in 2010 and had been outshining itself in the industry ever since then. The brand’s emphasis has been on producing innovative, trendy goods from the beginning, which in effect are environmentally friendly, good quality, healthy, and simple to use as well. They want you to spend more time chasing your dreams, and less time thinking about whether how can you make the perfect trips possible. With this aim, they are continuing to bring top-quality goods at your service. Ruggedized is one of their most famous models of rooftop tents, so let us jump towards the detailed discussion on its offerings.
While on the other hand, the upside about the Tepui Kukanam Ruggedized tent is quite broad as well, as many factors contribute to making it the best choice. This RTT is available in two aesthetic colors so that you do not have to feel restricted in choosing your favorite one. The ample space of this tent allows it to accommodate up to three people inside. Moreover, it also features large inner pockets so that the users can easily organize their gear or essentials. The welded aluminum construction of this model, in combination with the diamond plate base, set the best example or sturdiness and durability. The base material set your free from worries regarding its decline, as it is quite robust.
Another brilliant spec about this unit is that it comes with an anti-condensation mat. This part helps in keeping the internal temperature balanced by allowing air to flow perfectly through it. The built-in high-density foam mattress with two and a half inches of thickness is there to grant you a comfortable night sleeping time. The ultra-robust rip-stop 360 g stitched fabric adds more to the already sturdy nature and ever-lasting performance of this model. Furthermore, it also comes with a rainfly, so that you can remain protracted throughout the hard weather. Another plus that this model offers you is that unlike many other options, the canopy comes with zippers so that you can change it with other Tepui canopies if needed.
All in all, the Tepui Kukanam Ruggedized is one of the most robust options that is bound to last longer than your expectations. The thick high-density foam mattress and sturdy frame, it offers you both comfort and durability. The main highlight of this item is that it comes with a diamond plate base. With this feature, it sets a strong base to resist the high weight of the users. However, Tepui Kukanam Ruggedized is relatively heavy and offers a single door only, but the pros still weigh heavier. The night sky view from the window in the ceiling and breathable nature of this tent, all add more to its already applaud image.
Pros |
---|
Accommodates up to 3 people |
Available in two color options |
Large internal pockets |
Welded aluminum construction |
Diamond plate base |
Rip-stop 360 g stitched fabric |
Rainfly |
High-density foam mattress |
Anti-condensation mat |
Cons |
---|
Relatively heavy |
Single door |
Check It Out On Amazon
5.Front Runner
Front Runner Outfitters has become a world-famous, and top leading vehicle focused adventure equipment business that specializes in the design, production, and selling of the strongest roof tents and accessories for vehicles. Thanks to the enthusiasm it holds for off-road experiences, the company has been operating in this area for a long time. The team at Front Runner Outfitters has devoted itself to making premium equipment, which will allow customers to get the ultimate outdoor experience.
However, on the upside, the Front Runner overshadows the drawbacks with the extended list of impeccable pros. The best thing this RTT model brings to you is the sturdy, breathable, and waterproof fabric that the manufacturers have used in its making. The 400D Oxford tent fabric is strong enough to serve you years of joy and fun during your camping activities. As this is the most lightweight option available on the market, you will have many conveniences in moving around with it. Moreover, this plus point also helps in keeping your vehicle’s fuel usage sane. As it folds compactly, carrying it around or storing it will not be a problem as well. With the help of the heavy-duty PVC cover that comes along with this brand, it will not get damaged while you are traveling.
Apart from all the above-mentioned spectacular features, the built-in mattress of above 2 inches is also there to give you comfort throughout the night. One massive plus point is that the Front Runner RTT comes with two zipper doors that allow you to have two separate entrances for the sake of your convenience. As there are two zippers windows with screens, you will have a beautiful view of the natural world and great ventilation without the fear of flying insects. The aluminum ladder that comes along is quite sturdy and offers great support to the whole tent. The rainfly that you will get with this model will protect you from the rainy weather as well. Other than this, the roof ventilation system keeps the inner away from humidity and suffocation.
The Front Runner cargo tent is the most lightweight option available in the market. With this quality, you will be able to handle it with higher ease, and it will not affect the mileage of your vehicle as well. The sturdiness of the ladder and fabric used in the making of this tent will undoubtedly succeed in impressing you. The breathability and waterproof nature of the fabric are also commendable. Moreover, the tent is equipped with the utmost ventilation system and a comfortable high-density foam mattress to allow you comfort. While on the other hand, it may feel risky to invest in Front Runner due to the inconsistent durability that it shows. Plus, you will also have to buy the mounting kit separately.
Pros |
---|
400D Oxford tent fabric |
Lightweight |
Mattress included |
Two zipper doors |
Two side zipper windows |
Aluminum Ladder |
Rainfly |
Heavy-duty PVC cover |
Roof ventilation system |
Cons |
---|
Mount kit is sold separately |
Inconsistent durability |
Check It Out On Amazon
6.TMB Pop Up
TMB Motorsports has been in the business because of its utmost passion for helping people in exploring nature. The brand has worked hard to built-up a successful portfolio so that the users can get the best gear possible. The team has the vision to aid people in getting a safer and more comfortable experience away from the facilities of their home. TMB Pop Up by TMB motorsports is a famous model, and all its offerings are described below.
Whereas, on the upside of the TMB Pop Up tent, you will also get numerous appealing specs. All of these specs will definitely prove worth it. As this tent is available in multiple colored options, you will have to face no restriction in choosing your favorite one. The outer and inner zippers installed in this option are for the ease of closure of the tent. Moreover, this mattress comes with a pre-installed mattress so that you can have a comfortable time while sleeping. The mattress is made from memory foam and grants you the ultimate level of comfort. Furthermore, this product also includes an extra storage bag so that you do not have to invest in buying another one if needed. The quick set up time of this model also makes it worth having.
Apart from all these fantastic specs, the bungee net roof storage space is also there for you to store all your essentials safely. This will allow you to store extra gear without compromising on your sleeping space. Other than this, the side pouches of this tent also give you the facility to keep your gear safe and sound. As the upper part of this tent is made from a hard shell, it will protect you from rainfall as well. The lightweight nature of this product makes it even more attractive, as, with 100lbs of weight, it does not affect your vehicle’s millage. The sleek and compact design of this tent when it folds up is another positive point, as this allows you to store the product easily. The manufacturers also offer you a backing warranty of six months.
All in all, the TMB Pop Up tent for the rooftop of your vehicles is a pretty decent option as it is quite easy for one to install and requires less time to set up as well. The waterproof nature of this option will save you from getting affected by the harsh weather. As it offers you multiple compartments to store your gear, you will not have to worry about compromising on the space that you will get inside the tent. With a sleek and lightweight design, it will be easier for you to move around. You will not be impressed by the fact that the quality of the fabric is quite low. However, the backing warranty of six months will grant you relief.
Pros |
---|
Multiple colored options are available |
Zippers for easy closure |
Memory foam mattress pre-installed |
Extra storage bag |
Bungee net roof storage |
Side pouches |
Waterproof |
Light in weight |
Sleek and compact design |
Six months of warranty |
Cons |
---|
Single door |
Poor quality fabric |
Check It Out On Amazon
7.Yakima SkyRise
The story of this brand is more like a long journey, for they have never been good to sit still. They have an immense passion for this field, and this is what keeps them going. Their trustworthy technologies have changed the way humans travel for almost four decades. They are the pioneers in this genre. They have the great outdoors at their doorstep, as they are situated in the Pacific Northwest. Together with their network of respected retailers, they are giving everyone the freedom to go wandering, the right to be unruly, and the confidence to go and explore.
While on the flip side, the SkyRise by Yakima also comes with numerous points that help in making it a great RTT. The lightweight of this tent is what makes it special. With only 95lbs of weight, you will have no problems in moving around with this unit. This lightweight design will also save you from the trouble of poor millage. The rainfly that comes along with this Yakima version in combination with the waterproof PVC coating work tremendously well in offering you a firm shield against the harsh and tough weather conditions. Additionally, the 210D nylon fabric is robust enough to offer you a long period of reliable use. Hence, you would not have to make any compromise regarding the longevity of the tent material.
Further about the construction of this unit, the aluminum poles are there to offer you a robust yet light structure so that the tent’s foundation can be strong enough to support the weight. With such impeccable features, the relatively low cost of this tent will not fail to attract the customers. As it holds mesh panels in it, you will not have to worry about the insects, and these panels will also help in keeping the tent well-ventilated. The fast setting up procedure will save much of your time and effort. Moreover, the wide-open view of this tent will allow you to gaze at the starry night sky and beautiful natural scenes as well. With the built-in mattress of 2.5 inches, you will be able to have the utmost comfort while sleeping as well. This tent is available in two different sized options too. The limited warranty of two years is also there to make you feel risk-free.
All in all, the Yakima SkyRise tent will allow you to get all the extraordinary features in a single product. The lightweight nature of this tent is the best thing that you will get as your millage won’t get disturbed, and you will have no problem in both setting up the procedure and traveling with this model. The rainproof fly is there to save you from heavy or light rainy weather. With the robust yet breathable material, you will be able to get the ventilation on point with this cargo tent. The mesh panels will add more to this aspect. However, at the downside, some parts may not be able to stand long enough, but the two years of the limited warranty are there so that you can contact the company in case of problems.
Pros |
---|
Light in weight |
Rainfly comes along |
Mesh panels |
210D nylon fabric |
Low cost |
Waterproof PU coating |
Faster set-up |
Wide-open view |
Available in two different sizes |
2.5” foam mattress |
Aluminum poles |
Two years of the limited warranty |
Cons |
---|
One door |
Slight quality problems |
May trouble in alignment |
Check It Out On Backcountry Store
8.Smittybilt Overlander
Smittybilt Inc. confidently sells the revolutionary vehicle and SUV products to thousands of participating retailers and distributors across the globe. Smittybilt has extended its model selection to more than 2000 separate items targeting the worldwide truck and SUV industries. Management’s constant involvement in the off-road markets has kept Smittybilt at the forefront of engineering and design, in touch with the latest market trends. From the vast line-up of this brand, many models have received success in establishing the upright and reliable image of the company. Here, we offer our take on the Overlander tent model by Smittybilt. So, let us move on.
Whereas, on the other hand, the Overlander rooftop tent by Smittybilt comes with many pros on the upside as well. This tent is able to accommodate up to three people. With a maximum load capacity of 661lbs, you will have no concerns regarding the limit of the weight you are putting in there. Plus, the tent comes with a pre-installed high-density foam mattress. With this comfortable mattress, you will be able to sleep well and start the next day freshly. If your concerns about the unpredictable weather problems are bothering you, do not worry, as the Overlander model comes with a 600D heavy-duty waterproof top. In combination with this sturdy fabric, the rainfly also helps you in keeping safe from the tough weather conditions.
Other than all these benefitting pros, another thing you will be pleased to know is that the Smittybilt Overlander RTT comes with a heavy-duty PVC cover. This cover is resistant to punctures and will save your product from UV rays as well. As for ventilation, the windows installed in this unit will help as well. Moreover, these windows also feature netting so that you can get comfortable while being safe from mosquitoes. The LED strips inside this tent will help you during the night by providing light. With the help of aluminum tent frame poles, your tent will be able to stand firm as well. The mounting brackets are also included so that you can have somewhat ease in the installation of the tent.
With the help of the Overlander by Smittybilt, you will be able to get many advantages, but you will also have to face some primary drawbacks as well. Hence, this version is a mix of some pros and some cons. At the brighter end, you will be pleased to know about the sturdiness of the frame and the tent’s ability to stand strong against tough climatic conditions. However, on the downside, you will not feel impressed by the customer support that the brand offers. Plus, the installation procedure will also be quite difficult. So, it is better for you to know about your priorities before purchasing this tent.
Pros |
---|
Accommodates up to 3 people |
High-density foam mattress |
661 lb. max load |
600D heavy-duty waterproof top |
Rainfly included |
Netting at windows |
Aluminum tent frame pole |
LED strips |
Heavy-duty PVC cover |
Mounting brackets included |
Cons |
---|
May come damaged |
Non-durable ladder |
Difficult to install |
Poor customer services |
Check It Out On Amazon
9.Offgrid Voyager
Since 2004 Raptor Series has been working as the leading manufacturers for outdoor equipment. The brand has produced many different models to meet the different needs of its customers. With every passing year, the company is growing to be stronger than ever before. It has an immense zeal that keeps it going and makes it possible for the designers to come up with innovative and out of the box ideas. Let us now have a sneak peek at the Offgrid Voyager by Raptor Series.
Whereas, if we have a glance at the brighter end of this RTT, many points make it worthy of your attention too. The maximum load capacity of this tent is up to 750 pounds. This capacity puts you at ease as you will be able to carry additional gear in it as well. The high-density mattress installed in this unit works to provide you a comfortable sleeping time. It may not be thick enough, but it can certainly last long. The setting up and packing time of this unit are quick as well. So, do not worry, as none of your precious time will get wasted. With the aluminum ladder, the tent gets great support. This ladder is sturdy and collapsible as well.
Apart from the great features that we have mentioned above, another great thing about it is that the manufacturers have designed it aerodynamically so that your millage does not get negatively affected. The heavy-duty cover that comes along this unit will protect it throughout your trip. Other than this, the Offgrid Voyager comes rainproof, so you do not have to worry about the rainy nights at all. For your convenience, it also features two hanging shoes and storage pockets. These compartments enable you to store all your additional belongings safe and sound. The air vents installed in this RT tent are perfect for allowing the air to flow inside the tent. With the net door, you will get two main benefits. This door will help you get perfect ventilation and save you from flying insects as well.
All in all, the unit allows you to get several benefitting points while there are some problems associated with it as well. The high maximum load capacity and sturdy nature, you will have no problems regarding the use of this unit. The aerodynamic design will put you at ease. Plus, you will also get protection from the rainy weather. With the perfect ventilation system, this unit will help in keeping the internal temperature normal as well. However, the space inside this tent is not too much. Moreover, it will be a hassle to install it as the directions are quite weak. The thin mattress may not provide you the utmost comfort as well.
Pros |
---|
750 pounds of max load |
High-density foam mattress |
Quick set up and packing time |
Aluminum ladder |
Aerodynamic design |
Heavy-duty cover |
Rainproof |
Two hanging shoe and storage pockets |
Air vents |
Net door |
Cons |
---|
Thin mattress |
Small interior space |
Poor installation directions |
Check It Out On Amazon
10.DragonLi
DragonLi is yet another successful company in this field. The brand has been in the field for many years and operates on strict values regarding the quality of its products. With a vast line-up of brilliant options, the company holds pride in being the top manufacturers of such gear. The main aim of this brand is to offer the utmost comfort to the users so that they can explore the natural world without any worries. The brand shares a mutual passion with its customers for camping, and this is the reason behind its commitment to the field as well. Below here is all about the DragonLi rooftop tent that you would want to know.
However, the downside gets compensated with the extended list of benefitting features that come along with this tent. The best thing that you will get with his product is that it comes with a built-in mattress with 3.15 inches of thickness. Such thickness helps you in getting the utmost comfort while sleeping. Plus, the patented base of this tent helps in offering you great support so that you never fear to get inside the tent. Moreover, unlike many other options, this option offers you a quick and easy opening and packing. You will not have to invest extra effort, and the tent will set-up in only five seconds, as it comes with the pop-up style design. The LED lights featured inside the DragonLi will allow you to have much ease during the night time as well.
Apart from this, the extra storage bags that you will get with this RTT will allow you to have spare options and get free from the long-term worries. With the help of the sturdy telescopic ladder made from aluminum, the tent gets perfect support from the side as well. Furthermore, you will undoubtedly be impressed by the fact that the ceiling of this tent is waterproof. So, you do not have to cancel your plans due to the rainy weather as well. The sleek and compact design of this product will aid you in driving easily throughout your trip, and storing this unit will also become much easier. As the material of this unit is highly breathable, the users will not feel suffocated inside.
In a nutshell, the DragonLi rooftop tent is a wonderful addition to the market that gives tough competition to the rivals. The sturdiness of this unit allows it to become the best. Moreover, the breathable nature of this tent will help in ventilating the interior. You will also get LED lights with this product. The sleek design is yet another brilliant aspect that will offer you much convenience during your trip. However, beware as the delivery services are quite poor. You may get a pre-damaged RTT.
Pros |
---|
3.15-inch super-soft mattress |
Patented base plate |
Easy to open and close |
LED lights |
Extra storage bags |
Aluminum Telescopic ladder |
Sleek and compact design |
Waterproof |
Breathable and strong fabric |
Cons |
---|
Poor delivery services |
Single doorway |
Check It Out On Amazon
Rooftop Tents – The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide:
How to get the best rooftop tents? A common question for which many people seek answers is about the considerations that one has to make before purchasing the best rooftop tent. There are many different aspects that need attention; whether it is about the quality and construction of the tent or the type that you need, every point requires deep research and care. Below here, we offer you our take on the ultimate buying guide for rooftop tents.
Construction quality:
Don’t waste money on the tents that do not provide you the perfect quality. We understand that these tents generally come expensive, and paying less for these can feel quite enticing. Some businesses are dedicated to experimenting in the rooftop tent market while the others are professionals in this field. Buy from such dealers who render this their living. This is after all your furniture, and home-on-the-road. Make sure the cloth is solid, the seams are smooth and rugged, the frame is heavy-duty, and the ladder is secure and sturdy.
Type of rooftop tent:
When you are searching for the perfect rooftop tent for your use, you will come across two main types. Choosing between these types is the most important decision to make before moving any further. The two different types of rooftop tents include:
- Hard-sided rooftop tent
- Soft-sided rooftop tent
Typically the hard shell tent would be easier to put up and will offer more security for the tent as it rolls down the hill. If you are planning for a long road trip, then a hard shell will definitely suit you more. They are costlier and weigh more on the underside. The soft shell tents would be more affordable and lighter in weight, so when you spend in them, you will not have to worry about your limited budget. But, it is also important for us to mention that such tents are a little difficult to put up and take longer, though, so they do not survive the climate and other circumstances as perfect as the hard shell tents.
Size:
If you determine which type of tent you are in need of, then you will need to pay attention to the size of the tent that you want to purchase. Both size and type of the tent are significant decisions to make. When you’ve got these things down, the options are obvious. The size of the tent is a consideration not only in the seating area you’ll have in it but also in the amount of room that the product can require on your vehicle when it’s folded up. A tent that is too big in size is not appropriate for a small vehicle. Do remember how much storage room you have in your house while the tent is not in operation, so make sure that the tent that you are about to buy is also able to get folded up for compact storage.
Installation:
Set-up is yet another significant consideration, so if you’re going to have to struggle 20 minutes with a tent just to get prepared, that’s going to be a hassle for you and especially bother you when you are in a hurry. A decent hard-faced tent can go up in 3-5 minutes with the aid of multiple pistons or struts. It will take no longer than 7-10 minutes for a perfect soft-sided shelter.
Weight:
Before you purchase your new rooftop tent, it is important to know the load capacity of your vehicle. Don’t take this point for granted as every SUV or truck is not capable of holding a tent on it. Most of them are capable of handling several hundred pounds, but to know their maximum capacity, always refer to your vehicle user manual. This factor is somewhat close to size.
Considering the weight of the rooftop tent is essential for two main reasons. First of all, the tent must be 100 percent stable on your vehicle and rack, and its weight should be according to the weight that your car will allow installing on it. Other than this, if you choose to buy a comparatively lighter option, such a tent will allow you to handle it more easily, and the set-up procedure will also be less complicated.
Accessories:
We will not focus only on accessories for the purchase of our rooftop tent, but if you have shortlisted all the appropriate options, the accessories become a consideration. Few tents have built-in mattresses or bedding, although others can require an upgrade.
Many tent manufacturers have accessories for bedding that match the products. Such have the additional benefit of not requiring separate packing before closing camp. Many other accessories to think upon include adapters for illumination and an optional annex for additional protection. Awnings will allow it to be more convenient to sit in. And if you have space for a tank of water, there is also a shower there.
Ventilation:
Proper ventilation is one of the most vital things that one needs to consider before purchasing a rooftop tent. This is because during those summer nights, it may get very warm inside, and you would never want to feel uncomfortable in there, right? So, try to choose an option that comes with a perfect ventilation system installed in it. In this way, you will get more comfort and better nights to spend there.
Roof Top Tents FAQs & Answers
Are roof top tents worth it?
It is relatively simpler to put up the roof top tents than conventional ones. They make you stay away from the rocky surfaced ground, prevent you from prowling bugs, and let you camp in unusual areas. If you feel attracted by these features, a roof top tent can prove to be a worthy investment.
What is the advantage of a roof top tent?
Roof top tents arrive with numerous advantages so that the users can get the best camping adventure. These tents are comparatively easier to set up than the traditional ones. As they gather the space at the roof of your car, you will have much space left in your vehicle for other gear. Moreover, the best part about these tent designs is that they offer you high security. As these are placed at a certain height, you will not have to fear animals and insects reaching you at all.
Why are roof top tents so expensive?
As far as the price of the roof top tents is concerned, they come quite pricey. The reason behind their high price is that they feature many specs that make the overall cost hefty. With these tents, you will get collapsible aluminum ladders, sturdy aluminum frames, robust and long-lasting fabric canopy that will save you from rainfall and other tough weather conditions. Moreover, it also comes with built-in mattresses to offer you comfort at night time. Some may also come with inner LED lights. Whereas, the hardshell tents for roof top include more expensive materials in their making. These factors result in making the final price higher.
How are roof top tents supported?
RTT’s are built to sustain rated weight without a ladder. The ladder is built to ascend up and enter inside the tent but also offers some extra support. When you take a look upwards while being inside your tent, you will discover that there are some straps that are going up and across the top of the cross supporting bars. These straps contribute to supporting much weight.
Can you put a roof top tent on any car?
Knowing that roof top tents can and should fit on any vehicle is important to you, but that doesn’t guarantee that your vehicle is the best suitable for anyone of them. That is because roof top tents are an additional weight on top of the vehicle’s roof, and all of them are not quite aerodynamic. So, do not forget to have a look at the payload capacity of your vehicle.
Do you need a roof rack for a roof top tent?
You may mount Roof Top Tents on flat shelves, crossbars, or a canopy. Only make sure the racks have at least the tent’s weight with a Dynamic Weight Capacity (DWC).
How much does a roof top tent affect gas mileage?
The effect on the mileage of your car depends upon the design and weight of the tent that you have installed. A product that has been designed aerodynamically will cause a less adverse effect. Similarly, you choose to buy a tent with a lighter weight; it will also result in affecting the mileage very slightly. However, generally speaking, the fuel economy may drop up to 17 percent by installing a roof top tent.
Are roof top tents comfortable?
An additional dimension of comfort, as opposed to camping on the ground, is one of the greatest aspects of roof top tents. Most of these tents contain a foam mattress, which is far more relaxing than air mattresses or other types of sleeping pads.
Are roof top tents safe from bears and other animals?
So, are bears free from roof top tents? Roof top tents were created to keep campers safe and secure from predatory animals such as hyenas and lions. Although they are not completely bear-proof and strong sided structures, they can still keep you more secure than traditional land-based tents.
Are roof top tents waterproof?
The fabrics used in the making of the canopy of such tents are generally waterproof. For preventing you from getting affected as a result of heavy rainfall, these roof top tents come with rainfly. This additional facility saves you from getting wet by the rain as these are entirely waterproof, and no drop of water can penetrate them.
Do roof top tents get stolen?
The main reason behind the requirement of a lock on the roof top tent is that these products can be easily stolen. Though some tents come weighing over 100 pounds, still, there are several examples of crooks trying to steal roof top tents when the campers are away for hiking, boating, or other such activities.
The Conclusion
While planning your ideal trip on the road or enjoyable weekends, you cannot ignore the importance of suitable gear. In the case of rooftop tents, you would have to be quite skeptical as there are many things that require your focus. Be sure to look for the weight that your car will allow loading on it, or else you will have to face serious consequences. The comfort of the tent also matters, especially when you have planned long trips. Also, you would have to be skeptical about the construction quality of the product so that you can get the benefits that it offers for a long period of use.
Leave a Reply