Hard-shell rooftop tents put you safely on top of your vehicle and away from critters. (BestReviews)
It’s easy to see why rooftop tents have gotten so popular. They assemble or fold in minutes, offer the same kind of comfort as their ground-based counterparts, but also keep you off the dirt and away from beasts and bugs. Most attach to standard vehicle roof racks or bars, so you can stop for the night anywhere you can legally park your vehicle.
Our concise guide is designed to help you choose the best rooftop tent for your needs, and we’ve made a number of recommendations at the end to help you decide. To learn more, keep reading.
You have two basic options with rooftop tents: soft shell or hard shell. Soft-shell models are much like ground-based tents. They are generally made from tough polyester fabrics, with fiberglass or aluminum poles and a PVC base. They take a little longer to erect than their hard-shell counterparts but are lighter and more compact.
Hard-shell models go up very quickly, either hinged at one end, or on extending poles at each corner thus creating a box. Some have gas struts and take just a few seconds. The hard shell offers better protection during travel, and a solid roof once up, but they still have fabric sides. Most hard-shell models are for two people, whereas soft-shell models may extend on supporting poles and might offer accommodation for four. You may also be able to add annexes and/or shower tents.
Whether the roof tent will fit your vehicle is clearly a major consideration, but it’s vital to check weight as well. Your vehicle will have a maximum-load rating (it should be in your owner’s manual) and exceeding that is not only dangerous (because of the impact on handling and braking), it could also get you a citation for overloading.
Installation also needs to be checked. Don’t take the manufacturer’s word for it when they say “universal.” Also, look at the ventilation offered. Mesh screens let in air and keep bugs at bay. Finally, you’ll need a ladder. They are usually included but you want to be sure. You may also get a mattress.
Another option that will appeal to many is a truck tent. They are similar in concept to rooftop tents, except they fit in the bed of a truck rather than on the roof. While usually limited to two people, they are significantly cheaper than rooftop models.
Many people are attracted to what’s often known as “van life” — the freedom of life on the road full time. With modern communications, it’s even possible to earn a living while traveling. The trouble is even modest vans cost tens of thousands of dollars.
An increasing number of people are choosing the lifestyle, but with an affordable rooftop tent instead. The added durability of a hard-shell rooftop tent makes that the more common option, and the addition of a power inverter gives you the option to run household appliances. Add a cheap portable toilet and shower, and you can go anywhere your imagination takes you.
As we’ve already mentioned, truck tents are the budget option coming in at somewhere from $100 to $250. The cheapest rooftop tents are soft-shell models, which start at around $900, rising to $2,000 or so if you fit an annex. Hard-shell rooftop tents are anywhere from a little over $2,000 to over $5,000 depending on size and specification.
XPHW Hard-Shell Roof Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: Fully featured model for those who like camping the easy way.
What we like: Made from durable ABS shell and tough, tear-resistant Oxford fabric. Pneumatic struts give almost instant setup. Supportive aluminum floor. Lots of storage. Full awning. Anti-mosquito screens, ladder and mattress.
What we dislike: Very little. 2-3 adults is optimistic — more like 2 adults plus child or pet.
Thule Tepui Low-Pro Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: Low-profile design is easy to accommodate in the vehicle and while traveling.
What we like: It comes in 2-person and 3-person models. The tent is made of durable and recyclable materials. The canopy is suitable for all seasons around the year.
What we dislike: Initial installation is tricky.
Smittybilt Overlander Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: Feature-packed model at a very competitive price.
What we like: Made from durable polyester with heavy-duty waterproof cover. Strong but light aluminum frame. Sleeps 2-3. Mattress and telescopic ladder included. Annex also available.
What we dislike: Not much. Faults are rare, but owners have been critical of customer support.
Offroading Gear Rooftop Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: Great value model for the SUV or truck owner.
What we like: High-quality construction that can be raised and lowered in under a minute. Comes with all the accessories and hardware required for installation. Includes ladder, mattress, and travel cover.
What we dislike: Modest interior size.
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: High-quality models in sizes to suit all trucks, from 5-foot short bed to 8-foot-long bed.
What we like: Sets up in 10 minutes. Tall roof adds spacious feel. Full sewn-in floor. Full-length rain fly plus storm flaps for superior weather protection. Several storage areas.
What we dislike: A very small percentage report fabric tears or poles breaking.
Guide Gear Full Size Truck Tent: available at Amazon
Our take: All the features of high-end models at a bargain price.
What we like: Tough 190T polyester fabric with weatherproof coating. Good internal space with full floor and mesh windows for ventilation. Includes carry bag and weighs just 11 pounds.
What we dislike: Poor instructions, and fitting can be awkward. Inconsistent component quality.
Bob Beacham is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.