Find the Right Roof Top Tent
Answer the steps and we'll recommend the best tents for your vehicle and camping style.
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Rooftop Tent Buyer’s Guide: 5 Simple Steps
Step 1: How Often Do you camp?
Are you a weekend warrior, a seasonal camper, or someone who’s out exploring year-round? Frequent campers may want a more durable, faster-deploying tent, while occasional adventurers can prioritize simplicity and value.
Step 2: Sleeping Count
Rooftop tents come in different sizes to accommodate solo travelers, couples, families, or even pets. Choosing the right sleeping capacity ensures everyone stays comfortable and gets a good night’s rest.
Step 3: Vehicle Type
Your vehicle plays a big role in tent compatibility. Weight limits, roof rack systems, and overall size vary between trucks, SUVs, and crossovers—so it’s important to choose a tent that’s designed to work safely with your setup.
Step 4: Tent Style
Hard shell or soft shell? Hard shell tents offer faster setup and a sleeker profile, while soft shell tents provide more interior space and flexibility. Each style has its advantages depending on how you travel and camp.
Step 5: Determine Your Adventure Style
Are you overlanding long distances, camping at established sites, or heading deep off-grid? Your adventure style influences key features like weather protection, durability, storage options, and ease of setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a rooftop tent fit on my vehicle?
Most rooftop tents can fit on any vehicle that has a strong, compatible roof rack system. The key is to check your vehicle’s roof load capacity (both static and dynamic) and make sure your rack system supports the tent’s weight. Always verify mounting requirements with the tent manufacturer.
What’s the difference between a soft shell and a hard shell rooftop tent?
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Soft Shell: Usually larger and more spacious — great for families or long trips. They often include annex rooms and offer more interior space.
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Hard Shell: More compact, aerodynamic, and faster to set up — perfect for weekend adventurers or frequent travelers.
Can I leave my rooftop tent on all year round?
Yes, you can — but it depends on your climate. Hard shell tents are more weather-resistant and can stay mounted year-round. For soft shell tents, it’s best to remove and store them during long periods of heavy rain, snow, or inactivity to extend their lifespan.
How long does it take to set up and pack down a rooftop tent?
Hard shell rooftop tents can be set up in under 2 minutes, while soft shell tents usually take 5–10 minutes. The process becomes quicker once you’re familiar with it.