Everybody sees camping differently and enjoys the outdoors in various ways. It isn't easy to understand how different sleeping in a rooftop tent is from sleeping in a conventional tent if you've never done it.
Unlike their conventional ground counterparts, rooftop tents are a type of camping shelter, designed to be mounted or attached to the vehicle's roof using the racks or bars on top of it. Their foldable design makes for collapsible and compact storage when not in use, and easy setup when it’s time to camp. They come in various sizes, styles, and configurations and have many benefits, making it challenging to decide whether this option is right and how to choose.
What to Know Before Buying a Rooftop Tent?
Advantages. Rooftop tents for camping are quick to set up and take down and have great benefits over ground tents. A major one is that it just takes a few minutes to put up and deploy and they’re also quite easy to stow when it's time to break camp. Most come with a mattress, and many have strong fabric that works well in bad weather. They come in many sizes, from tents that can accommodate two people to ones that can accommodate the entire family. Additionally, by keeping campers off the ground, rooftop tents reduce the risk of animal encounters and flooding (or snowing) during inclement weather. Some options even feature lights, USB ports for electricity, and pockets to hold goods and clothes.
Disadvantages. On the other hand, rooftop tents are more costly than ground tents. Additionally, your car must have the proper roof rack to mount this type of tent. They can also increase wind noise and reduce a rig's fuel efficiency at highway speeds. Additionally, they're always attached to your vehicle, increasing its centre of gravity and weight, unless you have one installed on a trailer to leave at camp.
What to Consider When Choosing One?
When searching for an adventure-ready and easy-to-setup roof top tent for sale, you must consider several factors to choose the right one for your camping needs. Here are the most important questions when deciding between the most convenient options.
Will It Fit My Vehicle?
Can you put a rooftop tent on any roof rack? Not every car can accommodate a rooftop tent. To check if a particular option can fit on your vehicle's roof, find out how much weight your roof rack can support and how far apart the bars are. The distance between the front and rear roof rack crossbars is known as the bars' spread. Most rooftop campers have a "minimum bar spread" specification. To ensure your rack and tent match, measure the spread of your rack before buying a rooftop tent.
When in doubt, get in touch with the rooftop tent manufacturer to check the safety of your intended configuration. As long as you have the right rack and mounting mechanism, many tents are compatible with sedans, trucks, trailers, and other vehicle types.
Does It Require Bringing Other Stuff?
Some tents have an access ladder that must be carried inside your vehicle, while the same comes integrated into the packed-away design of other options. Some tents have awnings and extensions as accessories available. In most cases, these must be kept apart in a truck or automobile bed. Regarding pillows and sleeping bags, many roof top tents for sale are foldable and may be rolled up completely to store the bedding inside. Hardshell models are more likely to have this functionality.
Certain smaller-footprint rooftop tents allow additional room for bikes, boats, and other equipment on your roof. Naturally, the tent’s size and the rack’s dimensions will determine how much square footage you have left over on the roof. Some hardshell rooftop tents even have a place to put a solar panel or storage for equipment on top; you'll typically need to buy extra racks to use the roof of your tent's shell as storage space.
Do I Need Hardshell or Softshell?
Hardshell rooftop tents are sleek, aerodynamic, and easy to set up, often using hydraulic struts. They’re compact for parking in garages and may offer exterior storage, though many lack 360° views. Softshell tents, similar to traditional camping tents, are more affordable, ventilated, and spacious, accommodating 3-5 people but require more effort to assemble. Inflatable tents, a newer option, combine quick setup with roomy interiors.
What Design Features Do I Need?
The design of a rooftop tent greatly impacts your camping comfort. A functional, cosy setup can make it feel like a true home on the road. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the design of a rooftop tent for sale.
Side vs. Rear Opening
The tent’s opening style affects accessibility and space. Side-opening tents offer wider sleeping areas and work well with annexes or awnings, providing vehicle access from the inside. Rear-opening tents are ideal for tight spaces but might block rear vehicle access if the boot opens upwards. Both styles have their perks, but side-openings are often more versatile.
Storage Solutions
While rooftop tents lack internal storage, gear bags on the ladder or internal pockets can hold essentials. Solo campers typically find ample space inside the tent.
Windows and Airflow
Good ventilation is vital, especially in summer. Look for tents with insect mesh on windows and vents to ensure airflow while enjoying elevated views.
Lighting
Built-in lighting, like USB-powered LED strips, adds convenience and comfort. While not essential, it enhances the experience, making your tent feel even more like home.
What About the Material?
The quality and materials of a rooftop tent are key to its performance. Durable fabrics like ripstop polyester, nylon, or canvas are common, but cheaper options may use lower-grade materials. Check the fabric specifications and ensure they’re suitable for diverse conditions. The fly and tent should be waterproof, with the fly having a higher rating, and UV-resistant for sun exposure. Don’t overlook the hardware—mounting bars, bolts, zips, and latches are just as crucial for reliability.