Car-top tents are a relatively new genre of camping gear in North America. They are essentially tents that pop-up, or fold out, from on top of a vehicle.
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After spending a month traveling with the Tepui model, I’ve truly embraced this camping style for various scenarios. Rooftop tents have emerged as a fantastic new tool for campers everywhere.
Often referred to as rooftop tents, car-top tents, or pop-ups, these innovative camping solutions are gaining a lot of attention in the outdoor community. Based on my experiences over the past month, it’s safe to say you’ll likely encounter them in campgrounds near you soon.
Using a tent mounted on your car or truck might seem unconventional at first. Why not simply pitch it on the ground? However, after my journey from Colorado to Alaska with a Tepui Kukenam Ruggedized rooftop tent on my Ford Ranger, I’m convinced of its advantages.
The rooftop tent has revolutionized my camping experience, offering new possibilities. While there are ups and downs to this method, it stands out as the best new product I’ve discovered in years for obtaining a restful night outdoors.
This article aims to provide clarity about rooftop tents, sharing insights about these camping innovations and addressing common inquiries from fellow outdoor enthusiasts. We’ll keep this information updated as we learn more about this emerging genre.
For an in-depth review, check out our post on the Tepui Kukenam Ruggedized rooftop tent.
And no, my trusty backpacking tent isn’t going anywhere. Yet, during car camping trips, I can confidently say that the rooftop tent will be my go-to choice for the foreseeable future.
A Quick Intro to Rooftop Tents
Car-top tents are still a unique sight in North America, despite being a popular option in Australia and other regions plagued by pesky insects and wildlife for quite some time. When you set one of these up, you’re sure to attract curious glances.
Such curiosity is understandable; it certainly looks unconventional, and many will wonder about its stability. The key is having a robust roof rack. My experience with the Tepui model has shown me it’s exceptionally sturdy, withstanding gusts over 50 mph without issue.
Setting up the Tepui and most rooftop tents is a breeze, one of the features I appreciate most. Not only can you keep bedding inside the tent if desired, but it also includes a built-in memory foam mattress—far more comfortable than any sleeping pad I’ve tried.
Accessing the tent is done via a ladder. In many ways, it resembles a traditional, heavy-duty camping tent, but it sits on a flat steel platform atop your vehicle. For my setup, I’m about 7 feet above ground, offering an impressive view from my campsite.
Rooftop camping positions itself uniquely between RVs and ground tents, and you may find yourself wondering whether to pay an RV or tent fee at campgrounds. Since I don’t utilize electricity or water facilities, I prefer the more economical tent rate.
This setup offers RV-like advantages, specifically enabling you to camp in locations where traditional tents would present challenges.
Spending the Night at Walmart
While driving the ALCAN from Colorado to Alaska one late night, my wife and I decided to stop at a Tim Hortons for Wi-Fi and a donut. When I asked one of the officers there for advice on where to camp, he suggested:
“There’s a Walmart just down the road. Set up next to the other RVs.”
It’s an interesting quirk that many Walmarts allow overnight parking, a notion I had never entertained as a tent camper. This particular Walmart was closer than the next available campground, which was likely closed for the season anyway. So we decided to give it a try.
Within minutes, we had our rooftop tent set up in the Walmart parking lot in Grand Prairie, Alberta. I had a fantastic night’s sleep in a spot I would never have considered for traditional camping.
This scenario has arisen multiple times since adopting the rooftop tent; it allows for camping in locations that would otherwise be quite impractical with a standard tent. The durable material of the Tepui provides excellent concealment and a greater sense of security compared to sleeping on the ground.
This elevated position keeps you away from rocks, uneven surfaces, or pine cones, ensuring a consistently flat sleeping space, even on paved lots.
The Pros and Cons of Rooftop Tents
Advantages: The Tepui I tested has proven to be comfortable, easy to set up, durable, and weather-resistant. The flat sleeping surface it provides ensures I wake up refreshed. Although I can’t speak for every rooftop tent, the heavier materials accommodate thick mattresses and provide superior weather protection.
When compared to RV camping, the rooftop tent system presents a far more budget-friendly option. Additionally, it’s easier to drive, as you’re using your regular vehicle instead of a cumbersome RV. While you forgo amenities like bathrooms and kitchens, my wife and I carry along a large water supply, a two-burner stove, and a durable cooler. Essentially, we’ve created a budget-friendly RV setup.
In contrast to sleeping in the bed of your truck or inside the car: A significant advantage is that the truck bed remains available for additional gear since it’s no longer designated as a sleeping area. This was especially beneficial during our extended trip to Alaska, where we had to mix work attire with biking and hiking gear.
Moreover, especially in bear country, you can secure your gear inside the truck bed at night or when it’s not in use, offering added protection for valuable items you prefer not to leave in camp. Now, the truck bed serves as our gear storage and kitchen area, while our sleeping quarters are comfortably elevated above the ground.
On the downside, sleeping with a rooftop tent draws attention; it’s not as discreet as other options. While it’s less efficient and pricier than sleeping inside the vehicle, it offers distinct advantages for explorers.
Disadvantages: The most significant downside is that you cannot leave your tent set up while driving elsewhere. If you plan to go on day trips away from your campsite, you’ll need to dismantle the tent each time. Additionally, you might need to leave some gear at your site to reserve your spot.
It’s important to keep in mind that taking the tent down to set it up on the ground for short excursions isn’t practical; most rooftop tents weigh over 100 pounds and are designed for rooftop use only.
Another drawback is that the tent does slightly decrease fuel efficiency and may affect vehicle performance. I haven’t noticed a significant change in my Ford Ranger, but I suspect I’m losing about a half-mile per gallon.
While my truck handles fine, a raised center of gravity is something to consider for serious off-road journeys, although anyone venturing into challenging trails likely already knows this.
Price is also an essential consideration. Rooftop tents are not cheap, typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 and the rack system can add several hundred dollars to your investment. While some high-quality tents and sleeping pads might close the gap, the rooftop tent system still tends to be more expensive overall.
Types of Car-Top Tents
There are three primary types of rooftop tents: those that open like a book with a heavy canvas body and roof, true pop-ups with hard tops, and those integrated into vehicles as after-market customizations (like VW pop-tops).
The full-fabric Tepui I tested can be configured to open to the side or the back depending on the vehicle and layout. An advantage of this option is the ability to extend it over the tailgate, offering substantial shelter for cooking or relaxing during rainy spells.
Hard-top tents, on the other hand, pop up straight or tilt from one side, generally being quicker to set up. While I haven’t utilized this style overnight, I do have concerns about wind stability compared to a canvas tent like the Tepui.
Installing Your Rooftop Tent
Rooftop tents require a sturdy roof rack capable of supporting them, which can weigh over 100 pounds. Ensure the rack you opt for can handle this weight.
For my setup, I employed a Yakima system with Core Bars and Skyline Towers, which has worked exceptionally well. The towers can be conveniently removed, allowing for easy lifting of the entire system when needed.
The initial installation of the Tepui on my truck was straightforward and completed by three people in about an hour. Your experience may vary based on the tent and vehicle used, but I recommend setting aside an afternoon and having the necessary individuals and tools on hand. More details on the installation process can be found in my Tepui Kukenam review.
Rooftop vs. Ground Tents
Rooftop tents are particularly beneficial for extended road trips, making them ideal for travels along the scenic Alaska Highway or challenging weather conditions.
If your travels consist of many days packed into your vehicle, the added comfort of a rooftop tent is a major perk. However, traditional tents may better suit those on a budget or who only camp a few times during the summer, especially if they plan to set up camp for multiple days while unhitching their vehicle in between.
Have any questions about rooftop camping? Feel free to leave them in the comments, and we’ll do our best to provide answers.
Benefits of Rooftop Tents
When planning a camping trip, the traditional image of a tent under the open sky often comes to mind. Although conventional tents have long served as go-to shelters for campers, more innovative options, like rooftop tents, have emerged to enhance your outdoor experience.
Rooftop tents are specifically designed to be mounted on the rooftops of trucks or SUVs, fundamentally changing the way we camp. They’re revolutionizing overland adventure gear, and here are a few reasons why you should consider a rooftop tent for your next excursion.
What Is A Rooftop Tent?
Rooftop tents are a contemporary camping alternative that serves as elevated sleeping quarters, conveniently mounted on your vehicle's roof.
In contrast to traditional tents requiring multiple poles and complex setups, rooftop tents allow campers to easily create a comfortable sleeping area overhead.
These tents make for excellent traveling companions, solidly attached to your vehicle, which is their most significant benefit.
Materials Used in Rooftop Tents
Rooftop tents are made from various materials catering to different camping requirements. The type of fabric employed directly influences aspects like weight and seasonal suitability.
Some common materials include:
- Cotton: Fabrics made from 100% cotton are known for their breathability, durability, and resilience against wear. While they offer ample ventilation, they may require added insulation during colder seasons. Though strong, cotton tents can absorb moisture, making them challenging to dry out after rain. They perform best in summer.
- Polyester: These tents are lightweight and naturally water-resistant, allowing for quick drying. While not as breathable as cotton, they are tear-resilient and suitable for all seasons.
- Poly-Cotton: Combining the best features of both cotton and polyester, poly-cotton tents offer moderate breathability, abrasion resistance, and are relatively lightweight. They are water-resistant and provide an excellent choice for campers.
- Nylon: Nylon rooftop tents provide durability and are generally more budget-friendly than cotton or polyester options. They’re flexible, water-resistant, dry quickly, and can be treated for UV resistance.
Apart from the canvas material, rooftop tents incorporate several other components, such as frames that provide structure and stability.
How Are Rooftop Tents Mounted?
Rooftop tents, designed for adventure camping, must not sit directly on your vehicle’s roof for safety reasons. Instead, they utilize roof racks for secure installation.
These tents attach to your vehicle’s existing roof rack. If there isn’t one, you can buy crossbars to accommodate the tent. Before purchasing, ensure your vehicle can support the tent's weight and check the specifications for crossbar size and weight capacity.
There are two weight classifications to keep in mind: dynamic and static. Dynamic weight refers to the tent’s weight when the vehicle is moving without anyone inside. It affects performance and fuel efficiency, while static weight applies when the tent is open and occupied, providing a sturdier foundation.
Ensure your roof rack is compatible with your tent’s weight rating, maintaining at least 32 inches between installation points unless indicated otherwise in the manual. When mounting your rooftop tent, have appropriate tools and reference the manual for specific installation instructions.
Verify the completeness of the tent's components: bolts, ladder brackets, etc.
Install the mounting tracks onto your vehicle’s roof
Attach the ladder securely
Cover the tent appropriately
Follow the manual to mount your tent safely
Once installed, you’ll have a ready-to-use rooftop tent for all your camping adventures. Setup times vary, but with the right tools and assistance, you can typically complete installation in one to two hours.
Types of Rooftop Tents
Rooftop tents generally fall into two categories: soft shell and hard shell, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Your preferences for durability, space, cost, and setup ease will help determine the ideal choice for your needs.
Soft Shell Rooftop Tents
Lightweight and easily transportable, soft shell rooftop tents can offer greater accommodation space. Their setup, however, can be intricately challenging due to securing every edge into the cover.
While they usually allow for larger floor areas, they suffer from aerodynamic inefficiency, potentially affecting your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
Hard Shell Rooftop Tents
Hard shell options feature a solid construction, resembling boxes, making them popular among campers for their durability and ease of setup. While they tend to cost more than soft shells, their aerodynamic design minimizes drag, preserving fuel efficiency.
However, the rigid structure limits available space, but they allow for lightning-fast setup and takedown.
Advantages of Using Rooftop Tents
Rooftop tents are rapidly gaining traction as more campers recognize their unique advantages over traditional ground tents. The comfort and convenience they offer can make them an appealing option among outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s why you should consider incorporating a rooftop tent into your next camping trip:
1. Efficient Setup
While traditional camping requires finding level ground and clearing the area of obstruction, rooftop tents allow for a straightforward setup process. Simply park, remove the tent cover, detach the straps, set up the ladder, and unfold the tent to have your sleeping area ready in no time.
Some tents can even hold your mattress and bedding when collapsed, eliminating the need for multiple trips between the vehicle and setup area.
2. Ease of Movement
If you love road trips or camping at different locations, rooftop tents enhance mobility. Their quick setup and takedown make them favorable for spontaneous overnight stops, allowing you to easily explore a diverse range of terrains.
Whether in the forest or on rugged landscapes, as long as you find a safe parking spot, a rooftop tent ensures you’ll have reliable shelter.
3. Elevated Comfort
By sleeping in a rooftop tent, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep above ground level, protecting yourself from insects, mud, and wildlife hazards.
Ground tent campers often contend with insects and wild animals, but sleeping elevated eliminates these concerns, helping to ensure a restful slumber. Many rooftop tents also have mesh windows for extra ventilation while keeping ants and mosquitoes at bay.
Erecting a rooftop tent keeps your sleeping area dry, significantly reducing dirt accumulation, especially during rain. The heightened position also provides an added layer of security as it allows you to lock your vehicle.
4. Enhanced Comfort
Those who have camped on a hard ground mat know the discomfort of rocks and pebbles; rooftop tents come equipped with high-density memory foam mattresses, surpassing even the most luxurious sleeping pads.
Typically constructed with sturdy floors made from fiberglass or aluminum, they provide a more comfortable camping experience overall.
5. Superior Durability
Rooftop tents, while lightweight, are made of strong materials, fortifying against potential hazards. Furthermore, many utilize solid panels and aluminum frames, providing a reliable structure.
They are less prone to tears than traditional ground tents and often handle wind and weather conditions without yielding.
6. Effective Use of Space
Rooftop tents allow for easier packing, as you can store your sleeping supplies inside without having to dismantle them daily. This provides more room in your vehicle to pack additional camping gear, making your adventure more organized.
Some hard-shell variants even allow for storage on their roof, maximizing your vehicle’s capacity.
7. Customization Options for Additional Space
You can customize rooftop tents by attaching awnings, annexes, or curtains for added room and outdoor comfort.
Annexes often create a private changing area or kitchen, and awnings offer a shaded patio-like space, enhancing your camping environment.
8. Luxurious Camping Experience
You don’t need to purchase a pricey RV to enjoy luxury in the great outdoors. The right rooftop tent delivers comfort comparable to RV living without the hefty price tag.
Much like RV users, you may still enjoy solar electricity, however, you’ll save considerably—without sacrificing comfort or mobility.
9. Year-Round Utility
Rooftop tents are built to withstand various climates; those made of heavier-duty materials can perform exceptionally well throughout the seasons.
With robust fabric designs, insulation, and other features, these tents keep campers comfortable during both hot summers and chilly winters.
Embrace the Advantages of Rooftop Tents
Rooftop tents have advanced camping options beyond traditional ground tents. They are durable, cost-effective, and provide substantial comfort and convenience.
To maximize the benefits of your rooftop tent, ensure you select the right model that suits both your needs and your vehicle’s capabilities. Research diverse rooftop tent options to gear up for your next camping adventure!
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