Best Overland Roof Top Tents for Toyota Tacoma

Key Highlights

• Best Overland Tents for Toyota Tacoma: Top picks include Bundutec Electric RTT (luxury), Tuff Stuff Ranger (durability), OVS Nomadic 3 (lightweight soft-shell), and 23Zero Walkabout (large capacity).
• Factors to Consider: Size, weight, durability, ease of setup, comfort, ventilation, and storage options.
• Roof-Top vs. Ground Tents: Roof-top tents offer quick setup and better protection but are heavier and pricier, while ground tents are more affordable and flexible.
• Materials & Build: Opt for ripstop nylon or polyester with waterproof coatings for durability and weather resistance.

Overview

Are you a Toyota Tacoma owner looking to take your overlanding adventures to new heights?

Choosing the right overland tent can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment on the trail. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which tent is best for your Tacoma.

In this article, we'll walk you through the key factors to consider and share our top picks to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into the specifics of overland tents, it's essential to assess your needs.

Consider the following questions:

• How many people will be sleeping in the tent?
  
• Do you need a roof-top tent or a ground tent?
  
• What is your budget?
  
• What features are most important to you (e.g., ease of setup, weather resistance, storage space)?

Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect overland tent for your Toyota Tacoma.

Top Overland tents for Tacoma

Best Luxury Tent: Bundutec Electric RTT

• Sleeps 2-3 people
  
  
• Durable, water-resistant fabric
  
  
• Includes a high-density foam mattress
  
  
• Easy setup with a telescoping ladder
  
  

The Bundutec Roadrunner is a rugged and well-designed roof-top tent that offers excellent protection and comfort for your overlanding adventures.

Its fully electric, durable, water-resistant fabric ensures you stay dry and comfortable, even in inclement weather.

You can set it up with push of a button and takes only 20 seconds to setup.

The included high-density foam mattress provides a comfortable sleeping surface, while the easy setup with a telescoping ladder makes it a breeze to get your tent ready for the night.

With a capacity of 2-3 people, the Roadrunner is a great choice for couples or small families looking for a reliable and well-built roof-top tent for their Toyota Tacoma.

$4510

Bundutec BunduTop Electric RTT

Best Durable RTT: Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Tent

• Sleeps 2-3 people
  
  
• Durable, water-resistant fabric
  
  
• Easy setup with telescoping ladder
  
  
• Integrated LED lighting and storage pockets
  
  

The Tuff Stuff Ranger is a versatile and well-designed overland tent that offers excellent value for money.

Its durable construction, featuring a water-resistant ripstop poly-cotton blend fabric, ensures reliable protection from the elements.

The telescoping ladder makes setup a breeze, while the integrated LED lighting and storage pockets add to the tent's convenience and comfort.

With a capacity of 2-3 people, the Ranger is an ideal choice for couples or small families looking to explore the great outdoors in their Toyota Tacoma.

$1549

Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland RTT

Best Lightweight Soft Shell RTT: OVS Nomadic 3

• • Sleeps 3 people
    
    
  • Lightweight and compact design
    
    
  • Includes a high-density foam mattress
    
    
  • Comes with a heavy-duty cover for protection
    
    

The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 is a top-of-the-line roof-top tent designed for comfort and durability.

Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to mount on your Toyota Tacoma's roof rack, while the included high-density foam mattress ensures a restful night's sleep.

The heavy-duty cover protects the tent when not in use, and the spacious interior can comfortably accommodate up to 3 people.

If you're looking for a premium roof-top tent that offers exceptional quality and features, the Nomadic 3 is a fantastic choice.

$1799.99

OVS Nomadic 3 Extended

Best Large RTT: 23Zero Walkabout

• • Sleeps 2-5 people
    
    
  • Aerodynamic design for improved fuel efficiency
    
    
  • Includes a high-density foam mattress
    
    
  • Easy setup with a telescoping ladder

The 23Zero Walkabout is a sleek and aerodynamic roof-top tent that helps minimize wind resistance and improve your Toyota Tacoma's fuel efficiency.

Its lightweight design and easy setup with a telescoping ladder make it a convenient option for overlanding adventures.

The included high-density foam mattress ensures a comfortable night's sleep for up to 3 people.

With its durable construction and thoughtful features, the Walkabout is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient roof-top tent for their Tacoma.

$2247

23Zero Walkabout

Factors to Consider

When choosing an overland tent for your Toyota Tacoma, consider the following factors:

1. Size and Weight
   
   • Make sure the tent fits comfortably on your Tacoma's bed or roof rack.
     
     
   • Consider the weight of the tent and how it will affect your vehicle's handling and fuel efficiency.
     
     
2. Durability and Weather Resistance
   
   • Look for tents made from high-quality, water-resistant materials.
     
     
   • Check for features like reinforced corners and heavy-duty zippers for added durability.
     
     
3. Ease of Setup
   
   • Choose a tent with a straightforward setup process, especially if you'll be setting it up frequently.
     
     
   • Look for tents with telescoping ladders or other features that make setup easier.
     
     
4. Comfort and Features
   
   • Consider the mattress thickness and quality for a good night's sleep.
     
     
   • Look for tents with features like storage pockets, LED lighting, and ventilation for added comfort.
     

Roof-Top Tents vs. Ground Tents

When choosing an overland tent for your Toyota Tacoma, you'll need to decide between a roof-top tent or a ground tent. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages:

Roof-Top Tents

• Provide a higher vantage point for better views and protection from wildlife
  
  
• Offer a quick and easy setup, as they are already mounted on your vehicle
  
  
• Can be more expensive and heavier than ground tents
  
  
• May affect your vehicle's fuel efficiency due to increased wind resistance
  
  

Ground Tents

• Offer more flexibility in terms of location and setup
  
  
• Tend to be lighter and more affordable than roof-top tents
  
  
• Require more setup time and effort
  
  
• Provide less protection from wildlife and the elements

Consider your specific needs, budget, and preferences when deciding between a roof-top tent or a ground tent for your Toyota Tacoma.

Tent Fabric and Construction

The fabric and construction of your overland tent are crucial factors in determining its durability, weather resistance, and overall performance.

Look for tents made from high-quality materials like ripstop nylon or polyester, which offer excellent tear resistance and water repellency.

Many overland tents also feature a waterproof coating or lamination, such as polyurethane (PU) or silicone, to enhance their water resistance.

The tent's floor should be made from a durable, waterproof material like polyethylene or nylon to protect you from moisture and ground debris.

Well-constructed tents will have reinforced, sealed seams to prevent water leakage and maintain structural integrity.

Ventilation and Temperature Control

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your overland tent, regardless of the weather conditions.

Look for tents with features like mesh panels, windows, and vents that allow for cross-ventilation and reduce condensation buildup.

Some tents also offer additional temperature control options, such as removable rainflies or insulation layers, to help regulate the temperature based on the climate and season.

Storage and Organization

When you're overlanding, having a well-organized tent can make a big difference in your comfort and efficiency.

Look for tents with features like storage pockets, gear lofts, and organizer panels to keep your essentials within easy reach.

Some tents also come with additional storage solutions, such as awnings or vestibules, which provide extra space for gear, cooking, or relaxing outside the tent.

Setup and Takedown

The ease of setup and takedown is an important consideration when choosing an overland tent for your Toyota Tacoma.

Look for tents with a straightforward setup process, especially if you'll be setting it up frequently.

Roof-top tents typically offer a quicker and easier setup, as they are already mounted on your vehicle.

Ground tents may require more time and effort to set up, but they offer more flexibility in terms of location.

When evaluating a tent's setup process, consider factors like the number of poles, the complexity of the assembly, and the availability of color-coded or pre-attached components.

Tacoma Roof Top Tents FAQs

Where should I mount my roof top tent on my Tacoma?

Most Tacoma owners mount their RTTs over the cab, as it provides better weight distribution and stability.

Mounting the RTT over the topper is also an option.

Do I need a bed rack to install a roof top tent on my Tacoma?

Yes, you typically need a bed rack or roof rack system to securely mount a roof top tent on your Toyota Tacoma.

The rack should be compatible with your specific RTT model.

Can I leave my roof top tent set up while driving?

It's generally not recommended to leave your roof top tent set up while driving, as it can affect your Tacoma's handling, fuel efficiency, and clearance.

Most RTTs are designed for quick setup and takedown for each camping trip.

How much weight can my Tacoma's roof hold for a roof top tent?

The weight capacity for a roof top tent on a Toyota Tacoma varies by model year and trim.

Most Tacomas can safely support around 150-300 lbs on the roof, but it's best to check your owner's manual or contact Toyota to get the exact weight rating for your specific vehicle

Do I need to drill holes in my Tacoma's roof to install a roof top tent?

No, you typically do not need to drill holes in your Toyota Tacoma's roof to install a roof top tent.

Most RTTs use a clamping system that attaches to your Tacoma's factory roof rails or an aftermarket roof rack system without requiring permanent modifications

How do I maintain my Toyota Tacoma roof top tent?

To keep your roof top tent in good condition, regularly clean and inspect it.

Wipe down the fabric with a mild soap and water solution.

Lubricate the zippers and hinges as needed.

Store the tent in a cool, dry place when not in use. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific care and maintenance recommendations