Looking to add a little adventure to your camping trip? Then you need a rooftop tent! Rooftop tents are the perfect way to spice up your camping game and take things to the next level. With a rooftop tent, you can experience camping in some of the most unique and exciting places that otherwise wouldn’t be accessible.
Here are 9 of the best rooftop tents for your next camping adventure! So, whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for a new spot to camp out, be sure to check out one of these fantastic units! And don’t forget, with a rooftop tent…the sky is the limit! Happy camping!
What are the Best Rooftop Tents?
If you love the outdoors and are looking for an easy way to camp in comfort, rooftop tents might be a perfect choice. Rooftop tents provide a convenient solution for those short on storage space; rooftop tents require just a simple roof rack for set up, meaning there’s no need to own or rent a trailer or worry about finding space in your trunk.
Plus, rooftop tents can be set up in seconds and come equipped with mesh panels that protect against bugs while still letting cool breezes through and a foam mattress that’s comfortable enough to ensure a restful sleep at night. With these features, rooftop tents are the best way to explore nature either by camping in an improved campground or on an overland adventure, without sacrificing comfort.
The following are our top picks, so continue reading!
iKamper X-Cover 2.0
Overview
The iKamper X-Cover 2.0 hybrid rooftop tent offers the best of both worlds, allowing you to carry additional gear with special cross bars and sleep up to four people. This is constructed with breathable, high-density poly-cotton canvas, waterproof zippers and rainfly, convertible windows, and insulating mattresses all designed to keep you dry and comfortable in every season. Uncompromising quality is guaranteed as each iKamper tent is precision-crafted at our own factory and tested for real-world conditions.
Highlights
- Sleeps up to four campers
- Designed to keep you dry and comfortable in every season
- Expansive windows and high-density, polyfoam mattress for comfort
- Able to fold down the tent with sleeping bags and pillows inside
- Waterproof rainfly made with ripstop polyester
- Integrated crossbars allow you to carry gear on top of the tent
- 42.6 sq ft and weighs 150 lbs
Price
$3,499
My Take
This award-winning rooftop tent is packed with features such as cross bars to carry additional gear, a tough exterior, and integrated crossbars for more room for bikes, skis, kayaks, and more. Constructed with high-quality materials like breathable poly-cotton canvas, waterproof zippers and rainfly, convertible windows, and insulating mattresses to keep you dry and comfortable all year round.
Roofnest Condor XL
Overview
The Roofnest Condor XL is a 4-person tent with an expanded width of 14 inches for an almost king-size sleeping area. Perfect for families and those who need extra space to move around, it’s no wonder why this is their best-selling tent. Plus, it’s compatible with a range of accessories so you can easily upgrade and customize your experience – like the Condor Awning and Annex, or their optional solar panel. Get ready for big adventures in the Condor XL.
Highlights
- Accommodates up to 4 campers
- The aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance & noise
- It is relatively lightweight and fits most roof racks
- Made with high-quality materials to withstand harsh weather conditions
- The large windows and built-in skylight provide excellent light & ventilation
- Includes built-in storage pockets, a shoe rack, and gear loops
- 47.79 sq ft and weighs 160 lbs
Price
$3,695
My Take
The Roofnest Condor XL is a 4-person tent with an additional 14-inch width for more room for big families or lots of friends. Plus, you can customize your experience and upgrade with next-level accessories like the Condor Awning and Annex – or even a solar panel.
Tuff Stuff Ranger
Overview
The Tuff Stuff Ranger 65-inch rooftop tent is perfect for the family that needs a bit more space. At 10 inches longer than the original Ranger, this tent offers plenty of room for 3 full-sized adults and their bedding. Keep your vehicle free from clutter with convenient storage inside the tent – plus a pre-installed thick foam sleeping mat for added comfort.
Highlights
- Has a roomy interior that sleeps up to 3 campers
- Made with high-quality ripstop fabric that can withstand harsh weather
- Features a high-density foam mattress for comfort
- Side windows and mesh screens provide good ventilation & natural light
- Under tent storage hammock that can be mounted inside or outside
- Optional annex room with floor
- 36.67 sq ft and weighs 164 lbs
Price
$1,549
My Take
Enjoy the extra room of the Tuff Stuff Ranger 65-inch rooftop tent for you and your family. This upgraded version adds 10″ to the original Ranger, enough space for 3 full-sized adults and their bedding. Keep your vehicle storage free with convenient storage inside the tent. Plus, a pre-installed thick foam sleeping mat completes the package – perfect for a great night’s sleep on any adventure.
Yakima Skyrise HD
Overview
The SkyRise HD tent is perfect for any outdoor enthusiast seeking excellent comfort and protection in any season. With a heavy-duty 600D Ripstop polyester body and 3000mm PU coating, this tent provides waterproof coverage against the elements. Not only will you stay dry – its extra large windows, doors, and thick foam sleeping pad let you take in grand views while getting all-night cushy comfort. When camping outdoors, keep your base camp safe, dry, and comfortable with the SkyRise HD tent.
Highlights
- Provides room for two campers
- Take in the vistas with the large doors, windows, and skylights
- 4-season weather protection: 600D Ripstop Polyester fabric
- The tent floor is abrasion-resistant and textured for durability
- 2.5″ thick foam mattress
- The tent frame is light, strong, and pre-set for easy pitching
- 28 sq ft and weighs 101.41 lbs
Price
$1,999
My Take
Get ready to take your mobile base camp outdoors with the SkyRise HD tent! With its robust 600D Ripstop polyester body, 3000mm PU coating, and waterproof rainfly, you’ll get complete protection from the elements. Keep your campsite comfortable – enjoy grand views from extra-large windows and doors, or sink into the wall-to-wall foam sleeping pad for cushy all-night comfort. Make sure your outdoor adventure isn’t ruined by bad weather – trust in the SkyRise HD tent for ultimate coverage.
Thule Tepui Explorer Autana
Overview
The Thule Tepui Explorer Autana rooftop tent offers optimal comfort and convenience for your car camping adventures. With a space-saving design and a spacious interior that can fit up to three people, this high-quality tent is perfect for all your year-round outdoor explorations. It’s made from tough 600 denier poly/cotton blend, providing excellent weather protection, plus an extended canopy for shielding against any climate or surprise storms. And to ensure maximal comfort throughout your trip, the Explorer Autana includes a 6.5 cm high-density foam mattress – so wherever you go, you’ll be comfortable and secure in the Thule Tepui Explorer Autana rooftop tent.
Highlights
- Can sleep up to three campers
- Includes an extended private canopy entrance with a removable annex
- Panoramic skylights and windows keep the tent cool and well ventilated
- Exterior attachment points for various accessories make a cozy, more personalized camp
- Weather-resistant and durable main tent fabric withstands harsh weather conditions
- Four, large internal pockets for storing gear and camping accessories
- 47.44 sq ft and weighs 127 lbs
Price
$2,499.95
My Take
Whether alone or with family, go out and explore the world in ultimate comfort with the Thule Tepui Explorer Autana rooftop tent. This spacious three-person tent is made from high-quality 600 denier poly/cotton blend for unbeatable weather protection and includes an extended canopy to guard against any climate or unexpected weather. Plus, it features a 6.5 cm high-density foam mattress for extra cushioning throughout your journey, so you can be sure to travel in confidence knowing you’ll stay secure and comfortable with the Thule Tepui Explorer Autana rooftop tent.
Thule Foothill
Overview
Make your outdoor adventures even better with the Thule Foothill rooftop tent. It offers the same interior space as a traditional 2-person tent but folds up to half the size of most rooftop tents on the market. With its compact width of just 61 cm when folded and low profile design that sits 24 cm above your roof rack, it takes up minimal storage space – both while traveling and in the off-season. The highest quality materials were used to craft this tent, which has been tested rigorously both in the field and Thule’s world-class testing labs – so you know it’s reliable enough for all your adventures with family and friends
Highlights
- Sleeps up to two campers
- Folds compactly to preserve valuable space on your roof
- Features a wide entry, oversized panoramic rear window, and dual skylights for maximum airflow
- Exterior attachment points for various accessories make a cozy, more personalized camp
- Weather-resistant and durable main tent fabric withstands harsh weather conditions
- Internal pockets provide extra storage space
- 27.42 sq ft and weighs 122 lbs
Price
$1,999.95
My Take
Make your next outdoor adventure easier and more space-efficient with the Thule Foothill rooftop tent. It is half the size of most rooftop tents on the market when folded, yet provides just as much interior space as a traditional 2-person tent. Plus, its low-profile design takes up minimal storage space in a garage or on the car – so you can focus on spending quality time with friends and family. To top it off, this tent is made with the highest quality materials and has been fully tested for reliability.
Smittybilt Gen1 Overlander
Overview
The revolutionary Smittybilt Overlander Tent brings the versatility of truck and Jeep camping to your fingertips. Set up in seconds with just one person – no tent pegs or ropes necessary. Enjoy total rain protection, so you can camp at ease no matter what the weather throws at you. This tent comes fully loaded with all the features and amenities you need for a comfortable and reliable camping experience.
Highlights
- Sleeps up to 2-3 campers
- Comes with a waterproof rainfly and a fully seam-sealed construction
- Features a high-density foam mattress for comfort
- Side windows and mesh screens provide excellent ventilation & light
- Includes built-in storage pockets, a shoe bag, and a telescoping ladder
- Compatible with most roof racks and is not vehicle specific
- 36.94 sq ft and weighs 118 lbs
Price
$1,325.99
My Take
Smittybilt’s revolutionary Overlander Tent offers you the versatility to camp anywhere your truck or Jeep can take you. Enjoy an easy one-person setup in just seconds – no messy tent pegs and ropes like regular ground tents. Stay dry and worry-free with total rain protection.
Roofnest Sparrow
Overview
The Sparrow is a great tent for all outdoor adventures. Its pop-up design provides a 360-degree view and a great breeze, while its vertical walls give tall folks almost 7 feet of usable interior length. This durable tent is also unique in its ability to store thick bedding – like pillows – inside the tent itself, so you can save room in your car and make setting up camp easy.
Highlights
- Ample interior space that sleeps up to 2 campers
- Hardshell constructed with reinforced fiberglass
- The tent’s unique design allows for a quick & easy setup
- Integrated foam mattress for sleeping comfort
- Large windows provide good ventilation and natural light
- Made from high-quality waterproof material
- 27.67 sq ft and weighs 130 lbs
Price
$3,195
My Take
This pop-up tent offers durability, usability, and space and is perfect for tall folks who can enjoy almost 7 feet of usable interior length. Get sweeping 360-degree views and a great breeze every time you open it up. Plus, its ability to store thick bedding – including pillows – saves room in your car and makes setting up camp a breeze.
Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Overview
The Front Runner Roof Top Tent boasts low wind resistance and a compact profile, this tent offers both convenience and luxury. With its total size of 1.3 meters wide and 2.4 meters long, you can stay in the great outdoors without worrying about packing or lugging around bulky items. It also includes large opening windows for excellent airflow and a durable base with an aluminum frame for stability during storms. This lightweight product is designed to provide safety while giving you all the luxuries of camping.
Highlights
- Sleeps 2 campers comfortably
- Opens in one smooth motion for an instant bedroom at your camp
- Comfortable high-density foam mattress with washable fabric cover
- Two hanging pockets provide plenty of storage for personal items
- Skylight vent windows in the roof can be unzipped for fresh air, sunlight, or starlight views
- Tent body is constructed of water-repellent, durable ripstop fabric
- 34 sq ft and weighs 93 lbs
Price
$1,209
My Take
Drive in style and comfort with the world’s lowest-profile rooftop tent. The Front Runner Roof Top Tent measures 49 inches wide and 52.4 inches long when opened, while its super-low profile reduces wind resistance on the road and lowers your vehicle’s total height. Enjoy premium features while keeping safe and stylish on your journey.
What is a Rooftop Tent?
A rooftop tent is an innovative and convenient way to camp. It is a hardshell tent or softshell tent that is installed and secured on the car roof. Rooftop tents are spacious and provide substantial sleeping space and weather protection, enabling you to enjoy nature without being bothered by pests or adverse conditions. This is because these tents are raised off the ground, unlike traditional ground tents.
They also offer easier setup because installation does not require much time and effort. Most notably, when the trip is done, all you need to do is close the tent and drive off—this eliminates the extra hassle of having to take down a ground tent before departing.
What to Consider when Buying a Rooftop Tent?
Rooftop tents provide a convenient and comfortable experience when camping, but there are several fundamental considerations to make when buying one.
First and foremost, canopy fabric is important to consider as it will be the primary defense against water, sun rays, and debris.
Additionally, interior space matters. You should ensure that the interior space allows for people of all sizes to sleep comfortably along with any additional gear you may want to take with you.
Vehicle compatibility is also a necessity as each make and model requires specific measurements for proper mounting.
Furthermore, insulated cold-weather coverings can be an added benefit during colder climates or seasons so investing in these items may be worth exploring.
All these factors should be taken into account before purchasing a rooftop tent.
What is the Difference between Hardshell & Softshell?
Rooftop tents come in two different varieties – hardshell and softshell. The key difference between the two tent types is the tent body. While both tent bodies are mounted to a roof rack, hardshell rooftop tents are typically constructed from materials such as plastic or fiberglass, which gives them the rigid properties of a ‘hard’ shell.
On the other hand, softshell rooftop tents are not as ‘rigid’; their tent body is made of an exterior canvas that is typically water-resistant and lined with an insulated foam core. This tent design provides increased insulation against heat and cold weather elements, as well as greater flexibility when packing down for transport.
Additionally, softshell rooftop tents are generally much lighter weight than hardshell ones; so they can be used on smaller vehicles where space is limited. It really comes down to personal preference and what features you need in your tent since both tent types offer unique advantages to adventurers looking for their own piece of comfort while out exploring.
Is Vehicle Compatibility Important?
When it comes to selecting a rooftop tent, vehicle compatibility should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re driving a pickup truck, SUV, or car, the vehicle’s roof rack must accommodate the proper weight and size of the tent you select.
Additionally, it is important to consider factors like gas mileage and how adding the weight of the rooftop tent may impact your vehicle’s performance. That being said, larger tents that mount directly on a vehicle’s roof will have higher weight limits than tents mounted on vehicles with aftermarket racks.
Making sure that your vehicle remains fuel-efficient and safe should be a top priority when choosing vehicle compatibility for rooftop tents.
Is Installation Difficult?
Installing a rooftop tent can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite straightforward. No specialized tools are needed and the adjustment process is straightforward. Assuming your car has a roof rack capable of carrying the weight of the tent, then you’ll find that it only takes a few minutes to attach the carabiners and clamps to secure the tent to your car’s roof rack or truck shell rack.
It’s important to ensure that all carabiners and ratchets are properly tightened so that you don’t risk having any mishaps while in transit. Proper installation of your rooftop tent will result in a safe, secure environment wherever you pitch up.
What are the True Benefits of Rooftop Tents?
Rooftop tents offer a unique option for car camping that is becoming increasingly popular. These tents have a number of advantages over traditional ground tent camping. For instance, rooftop camping eliminates the need to search for flat ground to set up a tent, which can save time on longer trips.
Rooftop tents also provide superior protection from the elements with their elevated sleeping space, unlike standard backpacking tents that require a quite level surface in order to maintain stability. The rooftop tent design also makes packing and unpacking your car much quicker than other types of tents, so you can maximize your time in nature and enjoy more activities outside.
As rooftop tents become more accessible and affordable, campers looking for a comfortable yet convenient sleeping experience are taking advantage of their true benefits.
Wrapping Up
Camping has become much easier with the introduction of rooftop tents. Whether you’re looking for a hardshell or softshell option, these tents provide a secure and elevated sleeping space that helps to protect you from the elements.
It is important to make sure that your vehicle is compatible with the tent you select, as well as familiarize yourself with installation instructions so that you can properly secure it to your vehicle.
Unlike other tents, rooftop tents offer a comfortable yet convenient experience that allows campers to maximize their time outdoors. Though I wouldn’t say to throw out your traditional tent just yet, a rooftop tent will be a great addition to your camping gear.
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