10 Best Rooftop Tents for the Perfect Adventure (Covid Edition)

Traveling locally has been ever-more popular since the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns started. Camping is arguably the best solution, as it distances you from the crowd while letting you enjoy the nature surrounding your tent.

Unfortunately, sleeping in a tent might be the biggest turn-off when it comes to camping, as both the assembly and teardown process can sometimes be quite complex. Not to mention the hassle of finding a decent campground and figuring out a sleeping system that doesn’t always guarantee comfort. However, these are common problems associated with traditional tents, which may explain why outdoor enthusiasts are now shifting their attention to rooftop tents instead, a much more practical (and comfortable) solution.

With a rooftop tent, the setup process is almost instantaneous. The tent folds compactly on top of your vehicle’s roof rack and pops up with very minimum effort once you arrive at the campsite. Moreover, most roof tents can withstand inclement weather conditions and have a built-in mattress for a comfier stay—what’s not to like?

Luckily, there are plenty of great rooftop tents options, made by some of the most reputable brands in the industry. Alternatives are also broadly available at just about any price point. To help you decide which one’s best for you, we’ve curated and reviewed 10 of the best rooftop tents out there, including a complete buying guide so you can make an informed decision.

Enjoy!

Rooftop Tent Reviews

1. Raptor Series RAP-100000-126800 Voyager Rooftop Tent – Budget Pick

The list kicks off with the Raptor Series Voyager, which is simply a bargain for what it offers. It’s a 2-person softshell rooftop tent made of a 600D rated polyester fabric, held together by a solid aluminum frame and floor construction. And worth mentioning, despite being the cheapest tent on this list, it’s still made using the same high-quality materials as the more expensive ones below.

There’s a built-in 3.0-inch thick mattress, which is not the most comfortable one I’ve seen but still much better than sleeping on the ground (you can also add another portable mattress on top if the stock one ain’t enough for you). Meanwhile, the big guys will be happy to hear it has a 750 lbs weight capacity, which might even be a bit overkill for such a compact tent (but I’ll take it!).

But speaking of sizes, the interior space does feel a little bit tight. The lack of proper interior storage pockets and sunroof are also slight drawbacks for such a modern tent—but at that price, it had to have some.

Yet, if you want a really decent tent that won’t break the bank, this is what you need. Of course, if you want something a little more high-end, we’ve got more of that below.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum
• Capacity: 2 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 83.5” x 52” x 11”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 83.5” x 52” x 48.5”
• Weight: 159 lbs.
• Max load: 750 lbs.
• Mattress size: 78” x 48” at 3.0-inch thick
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• Rainfly
• 2 exterior storage pockets/shoe bags
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Budget-friendly, without much compromises on quality
• High load capacity
• Thick mattress

Cons

• Not the most spacious tent out there
• No awnings
• No interior storage pockets and sunroof

2. Smittybilt 2783 Overlander Tent

The first generation of Smittybilt Overlander has been Amazon’s best-selling rooftop tent for years now, and it comes as no surprise. This close-to-perfect softshell tent is very reasonably priced, despite being super well equipped. Also, the materials used are as heavy-duty as it gets at this price point, with 600D polyester cover and aluminum construction.

While Smittybilt claims it’s spacious enough for three people, the sweet spot is really two. Regardless, the tent is prepared to withstand a chunky weight of up to 661 lbs. Moreover, you’ll feel safe in the rain with the heavy-duty 420D rated rainfly, while the large screened windows provide enough ventilation. And unlike the previous model, interior storage pockets, sunroofs, and awnings are all present here.

However, the Overlander rooftop tent is not without slight drawbacks. First off, the 6.5 ft. ladder is shorter than most newer tents, requiring you to buy an extension if you want to mount it onto your jacked-up truck/SUV. On top of that, while the factory-fitted awnings are lovely, they do tend to pool some water when it rains. And honestly, I don’t see why Smittybilt didn’t de-facto include the annex it specifically built for this model but sells it as an add-on instead.

Nonetheless, those flaws are minor, and there are more than enough pluses to make up for all that. The fact that many bought this tent and confessed how satisfied they were with their purchase also speaks for itself. Thus, this is probably the most suitable budget rooftop tent to get for couples.

And if you’re looking for the larger version of this same tent, we’ve also reviewed the bigger Overlander XL model below.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum/polyurethane
• Capacity: 2-3 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 47” x 55” x 11.5”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 95” x 56” x 51”
• Weight: 132 lbs.
• Max load: 661 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.4-inch
• 6.5 ft. aluminum ladder
• 420D polyester rainfly
• Sunroof
• Screened windows
• Interior LED strip
• 4 interior storage pockets and an external shoe bag
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Useful LED light
• Reasonably priced
• Also offered in a larger size (2883 Overlander XL)

Cons

• Rainwater may pool on the awnings
• Shorter ladder than the competition
• Annex is sold separately

3. Thule Tepui Low-Pro 2 Rooftop Tent

Thule makes some of the best vehicle roof accessories, and in 2018, the brand made a superb decision by acquiring the famous premium tent manufacturer, Tepui. The company didn’t hesitate to make all of its rooftop tent lineup a Tepui collection series. And while you’ll see a couple more Thule Tepui tents later in the review, this Low-Pro 2, in particular, is the most affordable one.

This is a compact 2-person softshell unit that also happens to be the lightest rooftop tent on this list, weighing in at just 98 lbs. It’s somewhat surprising, as it has a heavier fiberglass base than the lightweight aluminum ones that most other tent adopts. The frame poles are still aluminum, and the cover is a 600D polyester, which is the same material as the rainfly—so no problem with rain here!

While the clean and compact design stands out the most, the Low-Pro 2 lacks a little in interior space. The rated weight capacity is also relatively low at just 400 lbs. However, this does make the tent suitable for solo travelers with their small hatchback/crossover (or those who want to avoid bad gas mileage). I’m also a fan of its extremely low-profile look when folded, which is a rare compliment received by a softshell tent.

In short, this is a low-profile well-equipped rooftop tent. And if you fancy its design but wish for a larger size, Thule also offers the 3-person capacity version – the Tepui Low-Pro 3.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Fiberglass
• Capacity: 2 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 43” x 50” x 10”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 84” x 50” x 44”
• Weight: 98 lbs.
• Max load: 400 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.5-inch
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• 600D polyester rainfly
• Sunroof
• Insect screened windows
• 4 interior storage pockets
• 2-year warranty

Pros

• Lightweight
• Clean design
• Low profile when closed
• Also offered in a larger size (Tepui Low-Pro 3)

Cons

• Tight interior space, especially for its price point
• Load capacity on the lower side
• Only offered in light gray color

4. Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent

The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 is one of the most heavy-duty rooftop tents on this list, despite having a reasonable price tag for a 3-person softshell tent. The aluminum frame poles are covered with a 600D polyester fabric, and it has a thick rust-resistant aluminum base construction with a diamond plate pattern. As a result, the large interior has a weight capacity rated at an extraordinary 850 lbs.

Not only being generous in the living space department, but the Nomadic 3 also gives you more (and better) features than most rooftop tents in this price range. First off, there’s a 3.0-inch thick foam mattress with two memory foam pillows and six interior storage pockets. Furthermore, you’ll get fancy bits like a portable reading light, and a 40-inch LED light strip inside. Outside, there are two waterproof shoe bags and a 420D rated rainfly. Oh, and the reassuring 4-year warranty deal is only icing on the cake.

If there’s a downside to this tent, it’s probably the weight, tipping the scale at 165 lbs. You may need a more capable (and probably more expensive) roof rack system to support it. Also, a specific Nomadic 3 Annex is also available for this tent, but it’s also sold separately, just like the Smittybilt Overlander discussed earlier.

Nonetheless, it’s still genuinely one of the most durable and well-equipped rooftop tents you can buy at a fair price. Those who seek a budget heavy-duty tent that will last for years may find the Nomadic 3 an interesting proposition.

Take a look at the Nomadic 2/Nomadic 4 if you want a smaller/larger version of this rooftop tent model.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum (diamond plate)
• Capacity: 3 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 47” x 63” x 14”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 122” x 63” x 51”
• Weight: 165 lbs.
• Max load: 850 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 3.0-inch
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• 420D polyester rainfly
• Sunroof
• 6 interior storage pockets and 2 external shoe bags
• Portable LED light
• 40-inch LED light strip
• Tent bonus pack: 2 memory foam pillows, lap table, broom, and dustpan
• 4-year warranty

Pros

• Excellent load capacity and ample living space
• Diamond plate base for added durability and protection
• Thick mattress
• Plenty of storage pockets and added accessories
• Also offered in more compact/larger version (Nomadic 2 Extended/Nomadic 4 Extended)
• Very generous warranty

Cons

• Heavyweight
• Aannex sold separately

5. ARB 803804 Simpson III Rooftop Tent

ARB is a highly reputable 4×4 accessories maker, so it was unthinkable not to add the Simpson III rooftop tent to this list. This is a 2- to 3-person softshell tent with a poly/cotton ripstop canvas cover and an aluminum chassis. And while I’m happy to report it has the same affordable price as the Nomadic 3 earlier, they also share the same weight. However, it’s still a versatile tent that should fulfill travelers’ demands just fine.

The ARB Simpson III seems to be getting plenty of love on Amazon, partly because it’s user-friendly and partly because it’s one of the few rooftop tents to include an annex as standard. The annex erects pretty broadly (about half the size of the tent’s footprint), and fully covers the ladder, creating a nice upstairs/downstairs feel. But while it’s great to have it as a standard feature, it’s unfortunate there’s no built-in floor in the annex, so it’s not likely you’ll sleep in there.

Nonetheless, there’s not much to whine about the tent’s equipment. Though the lack of a sunroof is a bummer, ARB makes up with larger windows, resulting in a well-ventilated interior. Also, the pretty generous 3-year warranty is quite appreciated.

So, if you want an affordable but still better-equipped tent than most, including a free built-in annex, look no further—this is what you need!.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: Poly/cotton ripstop canvas
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum
• Capacity: 2-3 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 49” x 57” x 15”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 94.4” x 55” x 51”
• Weight: 171 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.5-inch
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• Polyester rainfly
• Built-in annex
• 4 interior storage pockets
• Insect screened windows
• 3-year warranty

Pros

• Very well ventilated
• Strudy construction
• Annex is included
• Generous warranty

Cons

• Heavy
• No sunroof

6. Thule Tepui Foothill Rooftop Tent

The Tepui Foothill is Thule’s best effort in offering a super compact rooftop tent with a small footprint. This newly developed 2-person softshell tent targets those who wish to store more stuff on their rack alongside the tent, such as a bicycle, surfboard, or canoe. As a result, interior space is unsurprisingly on the smaller side, and the weight capacity is kept as low as the Low-Pro 2 model discussed earlier at 400 lbs.

Despite that, Thule didn’t compromise on quality, as you’ll still find a sturdy aluminum construction and ultra-resistant 600D polyester cover and rainfly. Large windows and panoramic roofs also redeem the tight space, so the bright sunlight creates the illusion of ample living space during the day. Also, it looks super clean and low profile, both when deployed and closed, which I’m a fan of!

Still, I’m not a fan of the price, which is pretty steep for its size. However, measuring just 24 inches when closed and weighing only 122 lbs. makes installing the tent on your roof rack a lot easier, especially with the pre-installed mounting rails out of the box. Hence, it’s pretty clear the Tepui Foothill aims to impress minimalist travelers who don’t mind sacrificing a bit of money for extra comfort.

It might not be for everyone but it’s definitely worth considering!

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum
• Capacity: 2 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 83” x 24” x 9.5”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 84” x 47” x 40”
• Weight: 122 lbs.
• Max load: 400 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.5-inch
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• 600D polyester rainfly
• Panoramic roof
• Insect screened windows
• 2 interior storage pockets
• 2-year warranty

Pros

• Clean and low profile when closed
• Small footprint, doesn’t take the whole roof space
• Oversized window on each side
• Roof allows great lighting and maximum airflow
• Pre-installed mounting rails

Cons

• Tight interior space
• Low load capacity
• Quite pricey for its size

7. Smittybilt 2883 Overlander XL Tent – Best XL Model

The Overlander XL tent is an enlarged version of the “regular” Smittybilt Overlander, making it ideal for families. But the differences don’t only lie in its size, as the weight capacity is also beefed to 770 lbs. (109 lbs. more than the regular Overlander). And as for the weight of the tent itself, it’s also slightly bumped up but still manageable at 148 lbs.

Although there isn’t anything truly concerning to report, there are a few awkward facts worth mentioning. While the regular Overlander model has a built-in annex sold separately, there is no annex pairing for the Overlander XL. Also, with the obviously higher price, the 1-year warranty does feel a bit short. But aside from that, the XL model receives only improvements and no downgrades, making it as durable and well equipped as its little brother.

Thus, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly rooftop tent large enough to house three to four people, this one is a no-brainer.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum/polyurethane
• Capacity: 3-4 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 47” x 76” x 11”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 122” x 76” x 51”
• Weight: 148 lbs.
• Max load: 770 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.4-inch
• 6.8 ft. aluminum ladder
• 420D polyester rainfly
• Sunroof
• Insect screened windows
• Interior LED strip
• 4 interior storage pockets and an external shoe bag
• 1-year warranty

Pros

• Ample living space
• Sleeps up to four people
• Practical LED lights
• Reasonably priced for its size

Cons

• Not compatible with the annex for the 2783 Overlander model
• Poor warranty at this price point

8. Thule Tepui Ruggedized Kukenam 3 Rooftop Tent – Editor’s Pick

The Thule Tepui’s Ruggedized series consists of the brand’s most durable tents, designed for proper off-roaders and 4×4 trailers. The ruggedized version of the Kukenam 3 has a thicker 600D canvas cover with UV and mold resistance capability. Added to that is also a sturdier aluminum construction and diamond plate base for maximum protection and durability.

While all that sounds like a recipe for the most heavy-duty rooftop tent you can buy, it’s surprising to learn there’s barely any compromise in comfort. In fact, the 2.5-inch thick foam mattress is fitted with an anti-condensation mat as standard, and it’s the only product on this list with that feature. Also, the interior is large enough to accommodate three adults, and the two huge sunroofs and eight interior storage pockets are worthy additions. Oh, and it’s nice to see that (finally) there are few color options available for a rooftop tent here – Haze Grey or Olive Green.

However, it doesn’t come cheap. Besides, I think Thule could’ve provided a better warranty at this price point and include the built-in Kukenam 3 annex as standard instead of selling it separately. But regardless of those somewhat minor catches, if you’re looking for the most durable softshell rooftop tent with a premium build quality, the Tepui Ruggedized Kukenam 3 is hard to beat.

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum (diamond plate)
• Capacity: 3 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 48” x 56” x 12”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 96” x 56” x 52”
• Weight: 162 lbs.
• Max load: 600 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.5-inch
• Anti-condensation mat
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• 600D polyester rainfly
• Panoramic roof
• 8 interior storage pockets
• Color options: Haze Grey, Olive Green
• 2-year warranty

Pros

• Sturdy and rigid construction, suited for hardcore off-road vehicles
• The only tent on the list to feature a built-in anti-condensation mat
• Offered in two color options
• Plenty of storage pockets

Cons

• Steep price
• Annex is sold separately

9. Smittybilt 2983 Overlander Hard Shell Tent – Best Hard Shell Model

Were you wondering why there wasn’t any hardshell tent on this list? Here you go. The Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell tent is extremely well built and has one of the largest living spaces offered in a hardshell rooftop tent, measuring 85 inches long and 55 inches wide. Moreover, the frame and base are made of aluminum and the roof is built out of a rugged ABS (plastic) material, a highly protective setup against the outside elements.

Despite being larger than most when used, it still measures less than 10 inches thick when closed, making this 2- to 3-person tent extremely low-profile. And when it’s time to pop it up, the process is simple and can be done in just a few seconds by unlatching a few hooks. Moreover, the tent is quite light, weighing just 104 lbs. but can still bear up to 661 lbs., thanks to the sturdy construction

That said, keep in mind that hardshell tents don’t have the same flexibility as their softshell counterparts. Thus, in exchange for the larger footprint, the tent will most likely take up the whole roof space. It’s also unfortunate that the most expensive rooftop tent on this list has the thinnest mattress of all, measuring just 2.0 inches thick. So you may have to buy an additional/replacement mattress to fix that.

Yet, frankly, if you can live with that (which I think is an easy compromise), you’ll be delighted by its well-equipped interior, rugged build quality, easy setup and teardown, and class-leading 5-year warranty. It’s simply one of the best hardshell rooftop tents you can buy today—period.

Key Features

• Category: Hardshell
• Cover material: Polyester walls with ABS shell roof
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum
• Capacity: 2-3 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 85” x 55” x 9.4”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 85” x 55” x 37”
• Weight: 104 lbs.
• Max load: 661 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.0-inch
• 7.7 ft. aluminum ladder
• Insect screened windows
• Interior LED strip
• 6 interior storage pockets and an external shoe bag
• 5-year warranty

Pros

• Extremely low-profile and lightweight
• More compact and aerodynamic than most softshell tents
• Extra durable nature of a hardshell tent
• Practical LED lights
• Class-leading warranty

Cons

• Expensive
• Thin mattress
• Takes the whole roof space

10. Thule Tepui Explorer Autana 4 Rooftop Tent – Premium Pick

The Thule Tepui Explorer Autana 4 is the largest rooftop tent featured in this review. It measures 122 inches long and 72 inches wide, making it a great addition for a family of four on a camping trip. Material-wise, Thule nailed it again, using rigid aluminum framing and a 600D polyester fabric with UV- and mold-resistance coating.

However, the party piece of this tent is the standard annex. But sadly, once again, it doesn’t come with a floor, so it’s not that ideal for spending the night in. That said, you’re able to form a fully enclosed area with the annex, which can be a great place to set up a portable shower or toilet or even to store more gear out of sight.

In terms of equipment, you won’t find the Autana 4 lacking anything significant. In fact, it over-delivers by providing two huge sunroofs, large window and door awnings for added privacy, and a rainfly that’s as thick as the tent cover itself. However, mind that this full-blown rooftop tent weighs a hulking 180 lbs. So check your roof rack system’s weight capacity beforehand.

Overall, if you’re looking for a premium-built rooftop tent unit that gives you the most real estate and a built-in annex, the Tepui Explorer Autana 4 is highly recommended. It’s pricier than most but it’s all worth it!

Key Features

• Category: Softshell
• Cover material: 600D polyester
• Frame material: Aluminum
• Base construction: Aluminum
• Capacity: 4 people
• Closed size (LxWxH): 48” x 72” x 12”
• Opened size (LxWxH): 122” x 72” x 52”
• Weight: 180 lbs.
• Max load: 650 lbs.
• Mattress thickness: 2.5-inch
• 8 ft. aluminum ladder
• Built-in annex
• 600D polyester rainfly
• Panoramic roof
• 4 interior storage pockets
• 2-year warranty

Pros

• Really spacious
• Sleeps up to four people
• Inclusive of the annex
• Also offered in lighter and more affordable 3-person version (Explorer Autana 3)

Cons

• Heavy
• Pricey

Buying Guide: What to Look for in the Best Rooftop Tent

The starting price of a rooftop tent isn’t exactly low, and you don’t want to end up buying a tent that doesn’t suit your needs. Hence I’ve compiled a few things you may want to consider before purchasing one.

Softshell vs. Hardshell

Like suitcases, rooftop tents are divided into two categories — softshell and hardshell. Both carry their pluses and minuses, so let’s have a closer look.

Softshell

Softshell rooftop tents are just like any standard tent. It has a fabric roof and walls, keeping its price and weight down. The fabric is often made from polyester or nylon with various thicknesses, measured in Denier (D). A Higher D-rate essentially translates to a thicker and more durable fabric that contributes significantly to its longevity. Thankfully, most softshell tents featured in this article have 600D rated polyester erected by aluminum frame poles. Hence, they’re thick enough to be durable without adding too much weight.

Sadly, the softshells are fragile and have no significant protection against low-hanging branches or sharp teethed animals. They’re also more prone to molding due to moisture buildup when stored, requiring extra maintenance to keep them dry. But regardless, if you want a tent with a larger footprint or living space, softshell tents serve better than hardshell ones, thanks to their excellent folding capability.

Just note that setting up a softshell tent is quite a chore compared to hardshell units. First, you need to remove the softcover, erect the tent, and put the ladder in place. Followed by that is inserting a few poles to prop up the rainfly and awnings. But even so, passionate campers might enjoy this process and won’t be bothered by the hassle.

Hardshell

Hardshell rooftop tents use hard compound materials such as plastic (polycarbonate or ABS), fiberglass, or aluminum to house the fabric tent walls/canopy inside. The standard opening mechanism is either with a hinge (like a clamshell) or a popup roof that reveals all four sides of the wall (like a box). Both are much easier than erecting a softshell tent.

Hardshell tents also shine with their superior durability and waterproofing, making their lifespan less of a worry. They also have a low profile look when closed too, helping with aerodynamics. However, they usually cost a lot more, and the footprint can only be as large as the vehicle’s roof area (meaning you need larger vehicles to mount larger tents).

Regardless, if you’re looking for an excellent hardshell rooftop tent and willing to compromise with the downsides, you should check out the Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell unit. It might have more than enough features to make you want one.

Interior Space

Like any traditional tent, the interior of a rooftop tent is often minimalist and can only accommodate a limited number of people (usually 2 to 4). While the headroom should always be sufficient for most occupants (as long as you don’t stand in your sleep), the size of the floor and mattress matters most here.

Note that a tent’s listed capacity doesn’t always align with its interior dimensions. Different manufacturers often have different interpretations regarding their tent’s capacity. Thus, it’s wise to do a few measurement checks beforehand to ensure the tent can comfortably accommodate your desired number of people.

From experience, getting a tent with the extra capacity leads to more comfort and a less claustrophobic feel, so it’s generally worth the price bump. Though, remember that a tent with a larger interior will be heavier and more likely to take up more space on the roof rack when it’s stowed. So it’s something to consider if you plan to carry extra gears along with the rooftop tent.

Roof Rack System

Rooftop tents can only be mounted on your vehicle via a proper roof rack system. While some SUVs and crossovers have them built-in from the factory, know that they can’t always handle the weight of a rooftop tent, as most of them serve more aesthetic purposes than practicality. Hence it’s better to be safe and arrange the budget to install a heavy-duty aftermarket roof rack system.

In addition, mind the weight capacity of the roof rack system you’ll use, which needs to fully support the tent’s weight along with its occupants and stored items. A system that can handle at least 200 lbs. would be your safest bet.

Weight

A rooftop tent is one of the heaviest accessories you can mount on top of your vehicle. Even a compact 2-person softshell tent is expected to weigh at least 100 lbs. Thus, mounting a tent on a roof rack isn’t exactly a one-person job.

Furthermore, remember that most vehicles aren’t meant to bear anything too heavy on the roof. This means that fitting a rooftop tent could affect your car in a few ways, like reducing stability and fuel economy or increasing suspension wear due to overloading. Thus, be considerate of the weight you’re going to put on it. And let’s not forget, tents also have their own load capacity that you shouldn’t exceed, as that’s as much weight as its base construction can handle.

All in all, preferably, you’ll want a lightweight rooftop tent with a high load capacity mounted on top of a heavy-duty roof rack system. For that, I recommend checking out the Thule Tepui series, which has plenty of tents with those characteristics. Besides, the brand also makes some of the highest-quality roof rails on the market.

Ventilation

While most modern rooftop tents have excellent insulation towards extreme climate, airflows are just as essential for sustaining a good air quality inside the tent. Hence it’s never wrong to go for tents with oversized windows on their sides. Even a panoramic roof is a welcoming feature for enhancing the tent’s atmosphere.

That said, opening the windows for too long can also cause moisture, dust, or even insects to enter the tent. So make sure you have the option to fit insect netting to the windows and erect the rainfly to minimalize the amount of moisture coming in. This way, you’ll have the best of both worlds — the tent’s airflow is maintained while still being protected from the unwanted outside element.

Built-in Accessories

Here are a few things to note regarding the typical accessories you usually get/pair with your rooftop tent purchase.

Mattress

Another thing the rooftop tent excels from a traditional tent is its integrated mattress, usually made from memory foam or gel foam material. While the length and width will roughly follow the tent’s footprint, the thickness of the built-in mattress varies from 2.0- to 3.5-inch, depending on the product you go for. However, if you still find it slightly too thin (I bet many of you will), you can always buy another foam mattress to replace/put on top of your current mattress. Just be sure the size fits, and you can still fold the tent properly even with that slightly added thickness.

Moreover, although not all tents come with an anti-condensation mat underneath, getting one is highly recommended to prevent molding. And if you plan to go camping with it now and then, consider investing in a mattress sheet for added cleaning convenience. You can also remove the mattress from the tent between trips during the day or switch the top and bottom sides to expose it to dry air.

Ladder

The ladder attachment will always be included when purchasing a rooftop tent, as it’s the only way to get in and out of it. It’s usually made out of aluminum and has either a telescopic or sliding mechanism. Both are equally fine.

That said, in seeking a high-quality ladder, you should try to find the one with rust-resistance coating for a longer lifespan. Also, if your vehicle has a jacked-up suspension, getting the one that stretches pretty tall (up to 7 or 8 ft.) can save you from purchasing an extension.

Rainfly

Nowadays, most rooftop tents also come with a removable rainfly, protecting the tent during heavy rain. Usually, a rainfly is made of a similar material as the tent, with equal or slightly less thickness. A 420D- or 600D- rated fabric rainfly is basically the best one you can get.

But note that attaching a rainfly requires more effort, and you might need an extra hand to do it. And although it acts as a shield against rainy weather, it tends to amplify the rain sound that could disturb your sleep.

Mounting Hardware

Your rooftop tent must come with a complete set of the necessary mounting tools for proper installation. Although not all tents have the same mounting hardware set, they should feature the support rails, ladder brackets, rack-mount brackets, and essential nuts and bolts.

Check the completeness of the set by referring to the tent’s installation manual, and don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer if you notice anything missing.

Awnings and Annexes

Awnings and annexes are not always included with the tent’s purchase, but they’re often bought together when available. Both are great solutions to increase your tent’s weather-protected area and private living space.

Awnings are like a roof extension from your tent, which creates a sort of large canopy at the side/back of your vehicle. These are great if you want to do some activities outside the tent but still want to be away from the hot sun or light rain. And although this is usually an add-on accessory you need to buy separately, most rooftop tents are actually equipped with smaller factory awnings on each of their side windows and door, just to prevent moisture from entering the tent and also adding a bit of privacy.

Meanwhile, annexes conveniently attach to the tent’s extended platform to create a fully protected enclosed area underneath. It’s a suitable place for a portable shower/toilet or just to accommodate extra sleeping capacity. So if this feature intrigues you, check out the ARB Simpson III and the Thule Tepui Explorer Autana 4 for rooftop tents that come with annexes as standard.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to mount a rooftop tent on my vehicle?

Once you’ve fitted your vehicle with the capable roof rack system, you should be ready to mount the tent. It’ll be a relatively quick process, but you’ll need at least two people to help with the lifting.

Not all rooftop tents have the exact tools needed nor the step-by-step mounting process, which is why YouTube is probably the best answer source to your question here. But the whole idea is pretty similar as I’ll summarize it into a few steps below:

1. Once you’ve unboxed your brand new tent, make sure to take out all of the tent’s content (except for the mattress) and empty it. The mounting hardware, tent cover, ladder, and built-in accessories are usually packed inside the tent.
2. Install the support rails (usually two) at the bottom of the tent using the bolts that came in the package. Note that you can skip this step if your unit has pre-attached mounting rails (e.g., Thule Tepui Foothill)
3. Install the ladder bracket and screw the ladder. Remember to not put the screw in too tight to allow free movement on the ladder pivots.
4. With the aid of a friend, carefully lift the tent onto the roof rack (assuming the roof rack is already in place). Ensure to put the tent as centered as possible on the roof rack to avoid potential problems when installing accessories like awnings or annexes later on.
5. Position the hold-down hardware near the rail location. And once the position is confirmed, screw the crossbar clamps until it’s snug, holding together the rails of both the tent and the roof rack.
6. Try setting up the tent and inspect any problem that might occur. If there’s none, you’re done! You’ve successfully mounted your rooftop tent.

Can I put a rooftop tent on a car?

Yes, you can. As long as you have a supportive roof rack system, you can fit a rooftop tent to any vehicle with a roof. That said, the tent’s size and weight must match the ones of your roof rack system.

Additionally, it would help if you tried not to put too much weight stress on your car’s roof to avoid any damage. Cars, in general, have even softer suspension than standard trucks or SUVs, making them more fragile. Hence do your best to keep the roof strictly for you, the tent, and the roof rack, while storing everything else inside the car.

How fast can I drive with the rooftop tent attached?

Vehicles with a mounted rooftop tent should be fine being driven at average speed. But attempting to drive at a higher speed may cause you to notice some aerodynamic drag, unusual wind noises, and a decrease in fuel economy. Thus, it’s best to keep the pace under 70 mph to be safe, which won’t be a problem anyway if you take the countryside road or forest trails.

Verdict

Most of us are victims of this pandemic and its uncertain ending. And to you who craves to travel safely while keeping yourself socially distanced from the crowd, mounting a rooftop tent on your vehicle could be the answer. So I’d say grab one and claim that adventure!

However, with plenty of choices and things to consider, choosing a rooftop tent might not be a quick decision to make. But if you ask me, for the budget-friendly tent seeker, your most suitable choice is the Raptor Series Voyager if you travel in pair, the Smittybilt Overlander if you want a little more room, and the Smittybilt Overlander XL if you’re taking a whole family of four with you. They’re simple, well-built, and provide excellent returns on your investment.

However, if comfort and durability are your priority and you don’t mind paying a little extra, strongly consider the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 for its ultra-rugged design and excellent value. Or perhaps you can go for the full-blown premium Thule Tepui Ruggedized Kukenam 3 if you want an overly engineered heavy-duty rooftop tent, which allows you to take it anywhere worry-free.