Getting the most from the great outdoors

What are rooftop tents?

what are rooftop tents

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If you like to enjoy the great outdoors but don’t feel comfortable camping in a tent on the ground, then it’s possible that a rooftop tent might be for you.

Providing comfort and a place with a view, rooftop tents are a recent addition to the world of camping and offer extra options for campers.

They can be found in different sizes including common 4 man tents and more.

A rooftop tent is an easy to erect tent that is mounted to the roof of a vehicle. Rooftop tents provide a safe sleeping area for the occupants on the roof of the vehicle. They normally mount onto roof bars or use a plastic roof box that fits on the vehicle roof and provide a different camping experience to more common ground based tents.

Best Value Rooftop Tent

Sale
Overland Nomadic 3
  • Fitment: Anything with a factory or aftermarket roof rack; Please confirm rack weight capacity prior if you’re unsure

What is the advantage of a rooftop tent?

Simplicity, convenience and ease of use are the key advantages of using a rooftop tent.

You don’t have the hassle of pitching a tent with guy ropes and tent pegs and you don’t even need to find a campsite to use one.

As the tent is on the roof of your car you can set up virtually anywhere that you can park your vehicle. 

Can you put a rooftop tent on any car?

It very much depends on the type of vehicle, size and the types of roof mounts that are available for use on your car.

Most four wheel drives, SUVs and larger cars can accommodate roof top tents and options for smaller cars can be limited.

That said, in Italy, where rooftop tents have been popular for many years, there are rooftop tents that will fit onto Fiat Pandas, which are small hatchbacks.

Rooftop tent options

TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly
Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent - 2783
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT - Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Travel Cover Universal
OVS Nomadic 4 Extended Roof Top Tent - Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Cover
No. of people
3
2
3
4
Product
TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly
Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent – 2783
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Travel Cover Universal
OVS Nomadic 4 Extended Roof Top Tent – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Cover
Weight
108 lbs
48 lbs
165 lbs
183 lbs
TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly
No. of people
3
Product
TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly
Weight
108 lbs
Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent - 2783
No. of people
2
Product
Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent – 2783
Weight
48 lbs
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT - Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Travel Cover Universal
No. of people
3
Product
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Travel Cover Universal
Weight
165 lbs
OVS Nomadic 4 Extended Roof Top Tent - Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Cover
No. of people
4
Product
OVS Nomadic 4 Extended Roof Top Tent – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Cover
Weight
183 lbs

How long does it take to set up a roof top tent?

One of the great things about rooftop tents is the speed with which you can get one set up and ready for camping.

They are already attached to the roof of your vehicle and all you need to do is open it up, ensure that the structure and ladder are secure and your are ready to go.

No complicated erection like traditonal ground tents.

Most rooftop tents can be set up in as little as 60 seconds with the longest set up being about 5 to 10 minutes.

Do rooftop tents affect fuel economy?

Rooftop tents do affect fuel economy. They are carried on the roof of your vehicle and therefore create some wind drag and resistance which will affect your mileage.

Top 10 Rooftop Tents

Are rooftop tents worth it?

We think so. They are more comfortable than normal tents, they are well made, sturdy and easy to set up.

By having a rooftop tent you keep the interior of your car free from most of the bulky camping items that would normally clutter your vehicle.

You also get a great view and benefit from a safer camping experience.

What is a rooftop tent and how does it work?

A rooftop tent is a type of portable shelter that is mounted on the roof of a vehicle, typically a car or an SUV. It is designed to provide a convenient sleeping space while camping or traveling. The tent unfolds or pops up from its compact form on the roof, providing a comfortable sleeping area.

Are rooftop tents easy to set up?

Yes, rooftop tents are generally designed for ease of setup. Most models come with a foldable design and can be set up within minutes. They often feature telescoping ladders that allow easy access to the tent on the roof. The setup process typically involves releasing a few straps, unfolding the tent, and securing it in place.

Can any vehicle accommodate a rooftop tent?

Rooftop tents can be installed on various types of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks. However, it’s important to check the weight limits and roof rack compatibility of your vehicle before installing a rooftop tent. Some vehicles may require additional modifications or a specific roof rack system to safely support the weight of the tent.

Are rooftop tents durable and weatherproof?

Most rooftop tents are designed to be durable and weather-resistant. They are typically made from rugged materials such as waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics, reinforced frames, and sturdy zippers. However, the level of durability and weatherproofing can vary between different brands and models, so it’s important to research and choose a reputable and well-reviewed tent.

Can rooftop tents be used in all seasons?

Yes, rooftop tents are suitable for use in various seasons, including spring, summer, fall, and even mild winter conditions. Many tents come with features like ventilation windows, rainfly covers, and insulation to provide comfort and protection in different weather conditions. However, it’s important to note that rooftop tents are not designed for extreme cold or heavy snowfall, and additional precautions may be required in such conditions.

Final Words

Rooftop tents are a great option for anyone looking for a more comfortable and easier camping experience.

Well made and easy to setup there are many options available to suit most vehicles and accommodation needs.

Simply turn up, open up and camp.

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