Top 5 Rooftop Tents for Adventurous Campers

Your Guide to Choosing the Best Rooftop Tent

Rooftop tents are becoming a popular choice for campers due to their quick and easy setup. Being elevated keeps you safe from rain, mud, and wildlife.

With a variety of sizes, styles, and features available, selecting the right model can be challenging. To assist with your decision-making, we’ve compiled a shopping guide that covers essential aspects to consider when looking for your ideal rooftop tent.

Understanding Rooftop Tent Types

Rooftop tents can be broadly categorised into two types: soft-sided and hard-shell tents.

Soft-sided rooftop tents are similar to traditional tents:

• Constructed from polyester or a cotton/polyester blend.
• Feature a hard PVC or aluminium floor.
• Require poles and ties for setup, which may take longer to assemble and disassemble.
• Fold down to occupy less roof space.
• Generally more affordable than hard-shell models.

Hard-shell rooftop tents come with a rigid structure:

• Made from materials like fibreglass or aluminium.
• When closed, they resemble cargo carriers.
• Open up to reveal a fabric interior.
• Can be opened along one edge or by lifting the top.
• Some are designed to be self-contained in a trailer.

For those needing extra space, many rooftop tents can be extended with annexes or awnings.

Key Features to Look For

Weight

While occupancy is important, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle can handle the tent’s weight. Most vehicles have a maximum dynamic loading weight, typically around 150 to 170 pounds. Exceeding this weight can affect handling and braking.

Occupancy

Soft-sided tents often overhang the vehicle’s roof but still have space limits. Most accommodate two adults or a combination of two adults and a child, while larger options exist. Hard-shell tents are generally built for two people with a few larger models available.

Size and Compatibility

Most rooftop tents attach to roof racks or bars, so ensure you have these before purchasing. While many models claim universal fittings, checking compatibility with your vehicle is wise.

Materials

The strength of tent materials is measured in denier (d). Higher numbers indicate thicker, more durable fabric. Look for tents classified as “three-season” for spring, summer, and autumn use, while winter tents are available for more extreme conditions.

• 200d to 300d: Lightweight summer tents.
• 600d to 1,000d: Suitable for most weather protection needs.
• 1,000d to 2,000d: Often found in travel covers with waterproof coatings.

Other Structural Elements

When shopping for a rooftop tent, consider:

• Floor: Typically PVC but can also be aluminium for added durability.
• Poles: Aluminium poles are lighter than steel.
• Seams: Look for double-stitched and taped seams for extra strength.
• Mesh Screens: Effective for ventilation while keeping bugs out.
• Zippers: Should be sturdy and waterproof.
• Room Divider: Available in some larger models for privacy.

Additional equipment may vary with each tent, so check for:

• Mattresses: Often included, especially in hard-shell models.
• Folding Ladders: Essential for access, with telescopic models being more robust.
• Annex: Provides more room for changing or storage.
• Lock: Consider a locking mechanism for hard-shell tents.

Price Range of Rooftop Tents

Rooftop tents tend to be pricier than standard tents due to their complexity. Prices typically range from £100 to £5,000 depending on the type and features.

Budget Options: Truck tents offer a cost-effective solution starting around £100, though an air mattress or sleeping pad is usually an additional cost.

Mid-Range Tents: Soft-sided models start around £800, with robust options reaching about £1,800.

High-End Tents: Hard-shell models are convenient and often luxurious, with entry-level versions costing around £1,500 and more advanced models ranging up to £3,000.

Useful Tips for Rooftop Tents

• Portable Power Pack: A useful addition for lighting and cooling.
• Choose a Suitable Location: Avoid hard ground for securing annexes or awnings.
• Height Considerations: Be mindful of increased vehicle height when parking.
• Installation Time: Hard-shell tents may require more time for fitting.

FAQs

Q. Is fitting a rooftop tent to my vehicle difficult?

A. Not typically, but due to their weight, it’s best to have a second person assist with installation.

Q. Why are some big-name rooftop tents so cheap?

A. Always check product descriptions; some items may not include essential components.

Q. How long does it take to set up a rooftop tent?

A. Setup times vary, but most soft-sided models can be ready in about five minutes, while hard-shell tents are quicker.