Ultimate Guide on How to Choose the Perfect Rooftop Tent for Adventures

Rooftop tents provide a convenient, comfortable, functional camping experience, whether you’re overlanding to rugged, remote locations, or simply heading to a campground with the family. A rooftop tent is favored for outdoor enthusiasts who prefer camping in the backcountry, national parks, or off-grid locations. It is a tent mounted on a vehicle, typically an SUV or a pickup truck. Rooftop tents provide a more secure and comfortable sleeping environment by elevating those from the ground. It also offers better protection from wildlife and adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. Rooftop tents come in various sizes, designs, and materials, each with unique features and benefits.
The roof tent is a reasonably recent phenomenon – but the idea of sleeping wherever you can park is steadily growing in popularity, especially in the UK. These elevated sleeping spaces actually fit within their own category of adventuring, rather than being in direct competition with either hiking tents or larger campsite tents. That’s because, despite its name, the roof tent is more akin to turning your existing car into a small campervan. Roof tents give you the freedom to camp anywhere your vehicle can take you, plus the comfort of an elevated sleeping space, next to zero setup time and a built-in mattress which rivals the comfort of bed at home. You can also keep the tent totally clean and away from wet or muddy kit, which can then be stored in the car below.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rooftop Tent

Choosing the right rooftop tent is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your outdoor experience. Here’s what to look for when selecting the perfect rooftop tent for your adventures.

1. Size and Sleeping Capacity

Consider how many people will be using the tent. Tuff Stuff offers rooftop tents in various sizes, typically accommodating 2-4 people. Ensure the tent’s size aligns with your camping group’s needs. For example, the Latitude Pioneer is very roomy inside and can officially sleep 3 adults, but that would be snug! Far better for a couple or maybe one parent with two young kids. The Pioneer’s mattress is 6cm high-density foam, and we can vouch for its comfort. The mattress dimensions are 140cm x 240cm, so it’s bigger than a double bed, and you can even fold the tent down with sleeping bags and pillows already in position.

2. Material and Durability

Look for tents made from high-quality materials. Tuff Stuff tents often use heavy-duty ripstop fabric and robust zippers to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. Ensure the tent’s construction is durable and built to last. Being called the Classic is very apt because this rooftop tent pretty much nails the concept. Real thought has gone into the design of the Classic 2.0, and it shows. Working from the outside in, the Classic 2.0 tries to be as aerodynamic as possible when collapsed down, partly by having a hard ABS shell rather than folded fabric and partly by being just 35cm thick. The tent fabric is durable canvas, and the seams are silicone-taped.

3. Ease of Setup

One of the primary advantages of rooftop tents is their quick and straightforward setup. Check if the tent you’re considering is easy to deploy. Most Tuff Stuff rooftop tents can be set up in minutes, providing convenience at the campsite. The Latitude Pioneer can be set up in a matter of minutes by simply folding out and popping up into full tent form. This tent is perfect for the efficient at heart. Why waste time setting up a tent? Let the engineers at Quechua do the work for you and let it pop open, almost on its own.

4. Comfort Features

Evaluate the tent’s comfort features, including the mattress’s quality. Tuff Stuff rooftop tents have high-density foam mattresses to ensure a restful night’s sleep. For easy access, look for additional features like built-in windows, interior pockets, and a sturdy ladder. A 2.5-inch thick foam pad offers plenty of long-term comfort, and it comes in a removable cover that’s easy to clean when your adventures come to an end. The Thule Tepui Autana 3 includes some subtle yet great design features that improve user experience, like the sturdy straps that hold the cover up when you’re in camping mode or the internal bungee system that assists in folding the canopy when you’re converting to travel mode. We love the easy-to-use travel cover and the incredibly comfortable memory foam mattress.

5. Weather Resistance

Keep an eye out for waterproof and weather-resistant materials, sturdy zippers, and a rainfly to keep you dry. Some rooftop tents are designed to combat rain, sleet, and snow, while others will serve you only when the sun is out. Consider when and where you intend to use your rooftop tent, as this will dictate how much weather resistance it needs. With a canopy that converts from open-air to complete weather lock-down, the Thule Tepui Autana 3 has more coverage than any model we tested. The added awning above the entrance and an included annex mean you’ll never be climbing up and down slippery, wet steps, and the button-free ladder is handy.

6. Vehicle Compatibility

To check if a roof-top tent will work on your vehicle, look up the following information: Total tent weight: That should be in the tent’s product specs. Most roof-top tents weigh more than a hundred pounds, so you need to be sure that your rack is up to the task. If you don’t have a roof rack yet, then you’ll need to consider your tent weight as you shop for a rack to serve as its foundation. The specs you need aren’t always easy to find, so you might have to contact your vehicle manufacturer and rack manufacturer directly to get the information you need. Static weight capacity: The ability of the rack (and vehicle roof) to support its designated number of sleepers and their gear isn’t typically an issue. Most car roofs are already engineered to withstand loads relating to a rollover accident.

Types of Rooftop Tents: Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell

Rooftop tents come in two primary styles: hard shell and soft shell. Each has its advantages and trade-offs, depending on your camping needs.

Hard Shell Rooftop Tents

• Aerodynamic Design: Hard shell tents, like the TentBox Classic 2.0, are designed to be as aerodynamic as possible when collapsed, reducing wind drag and improving fuel efficiency.
• Durability: The hard ABS shell provides excellent protection against the elements and physical damage.
• Ease of Setup: Many hard shell tents, such as the iKamper Skycamp 3.0, can be set up in minutes with a pop-up mechanism.
• Cons: Heavier and more expensive than soft shell tents, often requiring two people for installation.

Soft Shell Rooftop Tents

• Cost-Effective: Soft shell tents, like the Thule Approach M, are generally less expensive than hard shell models.
• Lighter Weight: These tents are lighter, making them easier to install and less impactful on fuel economy.
• Spacious: Soft shell tents often provide more interior space when deployed, ideal for families or larger groups.
• Cons: Less aerodynamic when collapsed and may require more time to set up and pack away.

Comparison Table: Top Rooftop Tents for 2025

Steps to Choose the Perfect Rooftop Tent

• Determine Your Budget: Rooftop tents range from $1,000 to over $3,000. Set a realistic budget to narrow down your options.
• Assess Your Vehicle: Check your vehicle’s roof rack weight capacity and ensure compatibility with the tent’s weight and mounting system.
• Consider Your Camping Style: Decide if you need a tent for quick weekend trips or extended overlanding adventures. This will influence whether a hard shell or soft shell is better.
• Evaluate Weather Conditions: If camping in harsh weather, prioritize tents with strong weather resistance, like the Thule Tepui Autana 3.
• Test Comfort Features: Look for high-density foam mattresses, ample ventilation, and storage options for a comfortable experience.
• Read User Reviews: Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the tent’s performance. Check reviews on sites like REI Expert Advice.

Best Practices for Using and Maintaining Your Rooftop Tent

• Proper Installation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when bolting the tent to your roof rack. You’ll need at least one strong partner to lift the tent onto your vehicle.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean the mattress cover and tent fabric after each trip to prevent mold and mildew. Use mild soap and water for canvas tents.
• Storage: Store your tent in a dry, UV-protected area to extend its lifespan. Avoid leaving it on your vehicle for extended periods between trips.
• Check Zippers and Seams: Inspect zippers and seams regularly for wear and tear. Use silicone-based lubricants for zippers to ensure smooth operation.
• Practice Setup: Before your first trip, practice setting up and packing away the tent to familiarize yourself with the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can any vehicle support a rooftop tent?

Most vehicles with a compatible roof rack can support a rooftop tent, but you must check the static weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof and rack. Most tents weigh 100-200 pounds, plus the weight of sleepers and gear. Consult your vehicle and rack manufacturer for specific weight limits.

2. Are rooftop tents safe from wildlife?

Rooftop tents offer better protection from wildlife than ground tents because they’re elevated. However, always store food securely and follow local wildlife safety guidelines to minimize risks.

3. How do rooftop tents handle high winds?

High-quality rooftop tents, especially hard shell models, are designed to withstand moderate winds when properly secured. Soft shell tents may require additional guying out in windy conditions. Always check weather forecasts and secure your tent properly.

4. Can I leave my rooftop tent on my vehicle year-round?

While possible, it’s not recommended. Leaving a tent on your vehicle can increase fuel consumption, expose the tent to UV damage, and cause wear on the mounting system. Remove and store it in a dry, protected area when not in use.

5. Are rooftop tents worth the investment?

For frequent campers or overlanders, rooftop tents are a worthwhile investment due to their convenience, comfort, and durability. They’re more expensive than ground tents but offer a unique camping experience and can last for years with proper care.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Camping Adventures

A rooftop tent can be an excellent investment for anyone who loves camping and the outdoors. By choosing the right size and style, considering essential features, and shopping at reputable retailers, you can find the perfect rooftop tent to suit your needs and make your camping trips more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re overlanding through remote landscapes or setting up at a family campground, a rooftop tent offers a home away from home that’s ready to go whenever adventure calls. For more camping gear insights, check out OutdoorGearLab for expert reviews and recommendations.