The Ultimate Guide to Roof Top Tents: Benefits, Features, and Why They’re Perfect for Adventure Seekers
Roof top tents (RTTs) have gained immense popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and overlanders for their convenience, comfort, and versatility. Designed to be mounted on the roof racks of vehicles, these tents transform your car, truck, or SUV into a mobile campsite. If you’re considering a roof top tent for your adventures, here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Roof Top Tents?
A roof top tent is a compact, foldable shelter installed on a vehicle’s roof. They are typically constructed with durable materials, such as weather-resistant canvas, aluminum frames, and reinforced bases, making them suitable for all seasons.
Roof top tents come in two main types:
- Soft Shell Roof Top Tents: Lightweight and more affordable, these are perfect for weekend campers.
- Hard Shell Roof Top Tents: Sleek, durable, and easier to set up, these are ideal for frequent travelers.
Benefits of Roof Top Tents
- Convenience: Quick setup and takedown mean more time enjoying the outdoors.
- Safety: Elevated from the ground, they keep you safe from wildlife and uneven terrain.
- Comfort: Many RTTs come with built-in mattresses for a better night’s sleep.
- Versatility: Compatible with most vehicles, roof top tents allow you to camp virtually anywhere.
- Weather Protection: High-quality materials ensure protection from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
Key Features to Look for in a Roof Top Tent
- Ease of Setup: Opt for a tent with simple mechanisms, such as gas struts or telescoping ladders.
- Durability: Ensure the tent is made with heavy-duty materials that can withstand harsh conditions.
- Ventilation: Look for mesh windows and vents to reduce condensation.
- Space: Choose a size that fits your camping needs—most RTTs accommodate 2-4 people.
- Accessories: Additional features like annex rooms, awnings, and lighting systems can enhance your camping experience.
Why Choose a Roof Top Tent for Your Adventures?
Roof top tents are perfect for adventurers who value mobility, comfort, and freedom. Whether you’re exploring off-grid destinations, taking road trips, or camping with family, an RTT eliminates the hassle of traditional tent camping. With no need for level ground and minimal gear requirements, you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the great outdoors.
Tips for Buying and Using a Roof Top Tent
- Check Weight Limits: Ensure your vehicle’s roof rack can support the tent’s weight, including occupants.
- Practice Setup: Familiarize yourself with the setup process before your trip.
- Invest in a Quality Roof Rack: A sturdy roof rack is essential for safety and performance.
- Plan for Storage: When not in use, store the tent in a dry, cool place to extend its lifespan.
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Roof top tents are revolutionizing the camping experience, offering unmatched convenience, comfort, and flexibility. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, investing in a high-quality roof top tent can elevate your adventures to new heights—literally.
Ready to take your outdoor escapades to the next level? Explore top-rated roof top tents and gear up for your next adventure today!
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23 Zero
To Learn more click here 23 Zero Armadillo A3
$3799 MSRP – May Special $3199 including annex
Tel: 855 875 7755 info@23zero.com
Autohome:
AUTOHOME: When experience makes all the difference.
Having pioneered the commercial rooftop tent concept in 1958, Autohome secured the first worldwide patent, boasting over 65 years of history. Since then, the company has continuously advanced and perfected premier-grade rooftop tents, setting the standard for rugged usage and inspiring numerous imitations on the market today. Crafted by hand in Rivarolo Mantovano, Italy, Autohome is committed to ongoing research and development, establishing new benchmarks for quality, durability, and safety. Many Autohome products hold the prestigious International Certification of TÜV SÜD Rheinland, affirming the excellence of the world’s original and best-selling tent.
Using only the finest European-sourced materials and renowned performance fabrics, our hand-laid fiberglass hard-shell tents are engineered to withstand the most extreme climates worldwide. Designed with a seamless blend of form and function, our tents epitomize enduring performance year after year. Backed by our 5-year warranty, we are proud to say we have tents still in regular use that are older than almost every other roof tent company in existence.
For those seeking rooftop tent excellence on their adventures and those who must rely on performance, the choice is evident: Autohome. Join the legacy and ensure that an Autohome tent becomes a lasting fixture in your family’s adventures for years to come.
Autohome USA has been the sole distributor of Autohome rooftop tents in the United States since 2005.
To Learn more click here www.autohomeus.com
Price range: $4479.00 to $6299.00
Contact info: Autohome USA Sales 888.852.2359 or sales@autohomeus.com
Camp King:
Camp King Industries continues to develop and build the toughest roof top tent on the market today. This aluminum shell roof top tent comes fully insulated and finished with a carpeted interior and an ultra-comfortable mattress. Premium build quality using Australian materials means you can sleep like a baby even if you’re exploring rugged, remote terrain.
Built Tough. These tents are fully TIG welded, premium powder-coated, and secured with a specialized Orlock riveting system making it one of the most structurally solid units out there. The full tent body is made from Australian-Made Wax Convertor Coolabah Tear stop canvas AS2001.2.18.1987 (military grade). Good luck finding that at your local fabric shop.
Quick Set-Up. This clamshell roof top tent is designed to be set up or packed down in a matter of minutes. This tent was made with adventure and convenience in mind featuring ample space for all of your bedding. Life is too short to muck about with packing away your favorite pillow.
Fun Facts: New 4″ thick high density memory foam mattress – Ultra thick memory foam is great for side sleepers! Extra-Long Full/Double Size Mattress (53″ x 85.5″) completely fills the floor of tent for wall-to-wall comfort with no mattress shifting. Closed cell foam (water resistant) insulated roof and high quality seals to prevent dust and water entry. Massive internal opening height (5′ 7″) for a spacious internal sleeping area. Optional Camp King crossbar system so you can carry additional gear on top of the tent. Oh, and so much more!
Warranty: World Class warranty – 5 Years on Camp King workmanship, 5 years on the Canvas (deterioration and fading), and 1 year on incidentals such as latches, handles, and struts.
To learn more click here Camp King RTT
MSRP: $5999
James Baroud:
If you want the best rooftop tent money can buy, this is it. James Baroud is a Porto, Portugal based fabricator that’s been making rooftop tents by hand for 25 years, they source the highest quality materials from within Europe, and their craftsmanship is incomparable to any tent in the market.
They buy aluminized canvas from the same Netherlands based supplier that produces NASAs space suit fabric. Their Italian ABS is coated in the highest rated UV protectant to prevent sun bleaching and cracking. The aerodynamic shape of the tents is designed for low drag and less impact to fuel economy.
Because the tents are made in Europe, they are bound by European REACH regulations that have the highest standards for protecting consumers from toxic chemicals such as PFAS and fire retardants. These chemicals are commonly found in tents produced in Asia and are known to cause cancer, especially in children.
Lastly, the design details are incredible. Every zipper pull is covered in rubber to reduce sound, there’s a solar fan that removes moisture, they sew with a two-needle flat felled stitch which creates stronger bonds and allows for super tight canvas stretch, velcro is reinforced with nylon backing to prevent tearing, interior aluminum is covered with poly-fabric to minimize condensation, walls zip down at the corners to allow for a full 360 panoramic view, every tent comes with a multi-function rechargeable hand light, plenty of space to store camping gear while its closed, and they offer the industry best 5-YEAR warranty!
MSRP: $4395 – $5995
Contact: Sales@jamesbaroud.com
To learn more click here James Baroud
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Roofnest:
The long requested Condor Overland 2 XL has arrived. Just like our supersized Condor 2 XL but wrapped in a high-grade aluminum skin, the Overland 2 XL can take more campers to more places.
The Overland XL offers a generous sleeping area that accommodates up to 3-4 people. A stamped aluminum shell maximizes durability, while relocating the struts internally minimizes any potential snags and weather snafus. By boosting the overall carrying capacity with optional crossbars for toys and tools and six accessory channels for mounting off-road gear, the Overland 2 XL provides countless ways to prepare for your adventure.
To learn more click here Roofnest
Price: $3,945
Tel: 303 872 6797 info@roofnest.com
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Ironman4x4:
The Ursa 1300 is the perfect choice for any size vehicle with a small footprint to fit CUVs, SUVs, wagons, and most truck beds.
STAR-GAZING SKY WINDOWS: Sleep under the stars! Integrated star-gazing sky windows are built into the roof – simply roll back the protective fly and enjoy the view.
TEMPERATURE AND LIGHT CONTROL: There’s plenty of ventilation with 3 windows to help reduce condensation and awnings to help further protect from the elements.
HIGH-DENSITY FOAM MATTRESS: The included high-density foam mattress with a 3D anti-condensation mat provides support and comfort for a long night’s sleep.
HEATER HOSE INLET: Camping in cold weather? Our tent features a heater hose inlet for an external heat source such as a diesel heater.
SIMPLE SET-UP & PACK-DOWN: Simple set-up with two latches at the base of the tent, unlatch and unfold the tent with the assisted gas struts. Pack-down is as simple as folding the lid and locking the latches.
COMPACT ON-ROOF DESIGN: Sleek black hardshell casing with UV protection that’s compact for most CUVs, wagons, SUVs, and truck beds.
To learn more Click Here URSA 1300
MSRP: $2499.00
Tel: 855 476 5714
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EEZI AWN:
The GALAXY Rooftop Tent:Designed to revolutionize the way outdoor enthusiasts experience camping, the GALAXY Rooftop Tent offers unparalleled comfort, convenience, and versatility.
The GALAXY tent is a revolutionary take on soft shell tents. Thanks to its gas strut mechanism, opening and closing this tent is a breeze, taking less than 40 seconds. Weighing a mere 45kgs and featuring its own aluminium rack system, the Galaxy is designed for effortless portability.
Crafted from durable 260GSM ripstop canvas, this tent boasts two large windows on each side and clear PVC in the roof for optimal star gazing experiences. Complete with a 70mm laminated high-density mattress, flysheet, two storage pockets on each side, and an aluminium extruded ladder, it offers both comfort and convenience.
Its innovative design enables easy installation or detachment with just two people, making it adaptable to any vehicle. When on the move, the tent folds down to a compact size of 210cm x 140 cm x 16cm and is safeguarded by a PVC cover, ensuring hassle-free transportation and storage.
To learn more click here Galaxy
MSRP: $1995
Contact: sales@equipt1.com Tel: 8667031026
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Bundutec:
Experience the great outdoors confidently, knowing the BunduTop is a genuine, rugged off-road Roof-Top Tent. It’s been tested in countries around the world, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for the ultimate vantage point to enjoy nature.
Sleek and straightforward, the BunduTop is a unique, all-electric rooftop tent that is easy to set up and tear down. It comes in three sizes to suit different needs: the Standard and King tents are perfect for two adults, while the Super-king is excellent for families with ample space to mount it.
With 360-degree access and viewing, the BunduTop provides an unparalleled view of your surroundings. Its 100% aluminum construction makes it lightweight and heat-reflective, perfect for hot climates. The tent is designed to fit any rack on the market, from a simple 3-crossbar system to a full flat rack setup, making it easy to install no matter what your setup is.
The BunduTop is not just about adventure; it’s about comfort and convenience, too. Equipped with a 3” high-density foam mattress, air circulation fan, dual USB outlet, 12v Socket & LED Light, it’s your home away from home. With its SB50 Anderson plug connection, opening and closing the tent is as simple as pushing a button.
You don’t need to pack and unpack a separate bedding setup, as everything can be left in the tent. The tent deploys and retracts quickly and comes with a built-in rainfly, so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors without any hassle.
Choose the BunduTop for your next adventure and experience the freedom and convenience of an off-road Roof Top Tent that lets you go anywhere your heart desires.
To learn more click here Bundutop
MSRP: $4,510 – $5,650
Tel 319 234 0071 jenn@bundutecusa.com
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4X4 Colorado:
4×4 Colorado is becoming a leading business specializing in rooftop tents & camping gear, after-market off-road vehicle parts, and vehicle modification. With a keen understanding of the growing popularity and convenience of rooftop tent camping, we have become a go-to destination for individuals seeking unique and comfortable camping experiences.
At the heart of our offerings is a wide range of high-quality rooftop tent models designed in-house meant to elevate camping to new heights. These tents are meticulously crafted with durable materials and innovative features, ensuring durability, comfort, and protection against the elements.
Whether it’s a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, 4×4 Colorado has a diverse selection of rooftop tents to accommodate different group sizes and preferences. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are available to assist customers 6 days a week both online and at our brick-and-mortar location in Denver, CO. In addition to tent and camping equipment sales 4×4 CO also offers after-market vehicle part sales & full service at our Denver Service Department.
To learn more click here 4×4 Colorado
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Tuffstuffoverland:
The Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha Roof Top Tent epitomizes convenience and comfort for outdoor enthusiasts looking to elevate their camping experience. Designed for 2-3 adventurers, this tent offers a robust solution that fits neatly atop a variety of vehicles, ranging from trucks to SUVs. The Alpha model is noted for its quick and easy deployment system that allows campers to set up and break down their campsite in mere minutes, a perfect feature for those who prefer to spend more time exploring than assembling gear.
Constructed from 280 G Poly/Cotton Rip Stop, the Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha Roof Top Tent is built to withstand diverse weather conditions, ensuring it remains intact and comfortable irrespective of rain or sunshine. The tent’s base is made of sturdy aluminum with an insulated core, providing a firm and thermally controlled environment for sleepers inside, regardless of the external temperatures.
One of the tent’s standout features is its expansive windows and doors, which are designed with mesh screens to keep insects out while allowing for ample ventilation and panoramic views of the surroundings. The tent also includes a high-density foam mattress that guarantees a comfortable night’s sleep, essential after a long day of adventure.
The Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha Roof Top Tent also includes additional conveniences such as internal storage pockets and a retractable ladder. You can add on additional accessories such as awnings, shared walls or lights making it not only a shelter but a true home away from home in the wild.
To learn more click here Alpha Hard-shell
MSRP: $2,999.99
Contact: 866 220 0171
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Hitents:
Hitents has been bringing you exceptional quality camping equipment since 2015. Our goal was to provide heavy duty rooftop tents at an affordable price and we have been able to meet and exceed that for 8 years now!! Our 400g ripstop poly cotton canvas are the heaviest duty and most durable tent shells in the North American market and come standard on our Expedition Grade tents. For those of you that want a high quality tent but a little lighter duty then our Scout Edition line is for you, these use our very robust 280g ripstop poly cotton. Our products are globally sourced but stocked and warrantied from our shop here in California. We are a small family owned and run business and look forward to helping you get outfitted for your next adventure. We have 5 tent models to fit every need.
www.hitents.com
MSRP: $1875-3084
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OVS:
XD Everest Tents are a peerless marvel in the realm of rooftop camping, meticulously engineered to elevate your outdoor escapades to unprecedented heights. With a fusion of groundbreaking features and unparalleled craftsmanship, the Everest Tents emerge as your quintessential abode away from home. Anchored by an aircraft-grade aluminum shell, these tents establish a new pinnacle in durability and resilience, safeguarding your sanctuary regardless of the terrain you traverse. The cantilever opening design revolutionizes your camping experience, seamlessly morphing your compact rooftop refuge into an expansive sleeping haven. This innovative design caters to adventurers yearning for both comfort and convenience, optimizing space without compromising on luxury. Fabricated from premium 320G Rip Stop material, the tent body epitomizes ruggedness and reliability, enduring the rigors of the wilderness with unwavering fortitude. Setting the Everest Tent leagues apart is its blackout interior coating, an ingenious feature that banishes all light intrusion. Whether chasing dawn’s first light or seeking a tranquil night’s rest, this attribute ensures an optimal sleeping environment conducive to rejuvenation. Within, a high-density foam mattress awaits, promising unparalleled comfort amidst even the most remote campsites. The aluminum honeycomb base not only enhances the tent’s structural integrity but also renders it light, facilitating effortless setup and closure. For the discerning adventurer craving versatility, the XD Everest Tents are available in 2-person configurations, complete with crossbars for additional cargo atop the tent. These bars provide a secure mount for bikes, canoes, or any essential gear, ensuring you’re primed for every outdoor endeavor that awaits.
MSRP: $2799.99
To learn more click here XD Everest
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FSR:
FSR, or Freespirit Recreation, is a family-owned and operated business with a sole focus on rooftop tents and outdoor camping equipment. Built for the everyday adventurer and the extreme outdoor enthusiast alike, FSR products are built to last. We pride ourselves on our proprietary Tri-layer, insulated tent material and our flagship RTT, the Evolution V2. This rooftop tent is the solution for any camper wanting to have all the necessary features in one tent. Fully insulated tent body, slatted floor design for superior ventilation and dispersion of condensation, integrated heater and A/C ports, 9” profile allows you store all of your bedding inside, set up time in under 60 seconds, and a full hardshell design allows for added crossbars to carry some of that extra gear on top. Truly built with the customer in mind and iterated upon based on customer feedback, FSR pushes the limits with product testing and innovation to ensure we create the best possible rooftop tents and camp equipment possible.
This year we celebrate our 10 year anniversary as a business. Our goal has always been to innovate and improve every product based on our customer’s feedback. In 2024, we have exciting product lineups coming soon with kitchen systems, sleep systems and a couple of new tent designs that we have been testing for the past few months.
If you’re considering a rooftop tent that checks all the boxes, visit our website or give us a call today. Mention this article for an exclusive deal!
MSRP: Evolution series $3495-3695
To learn more click here FSR
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Alternative Roof Top Tents:
- Cascadia Vehicle Tents
- iKamper
- GFC
- ARB
- Big Foot Tents
- Front Runner
- TJM
- Yakima
- Thule
- Hutch
- Roost
- Treeline
- Smittybilt
- Terrapod
- AluCab
- C6 Outdoor
- Redtail Overland
- The Bush Company
- Antishanty
- Inspired Overland
- Badass
- Guana Equipment
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Things to look for when buying a RTT – HERE
For other Resource Guides check out:
Ultimate Resource Guide to Vehicle Supported Adventure
The Ultimate Guide to Off-Road and Overland Trailers
Adventure Vans – Ultimate Guide
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Great article Andy!! Have used Guana Equipment Roof Top Tent a few times. It’s really great. Definitely, a brand to watch out for.
Definitely a hit with my family !