10 Best Roof Top Tents
Roof Top Tents: Top Choices for 2024
Are you interested in buying a roof top tent but need assistance to decide which one to go for?
As there are many roof top tents to choose from, choosing the best roof top tent can be overwhelming. You might be asking questions like:
- Which roof top tent is the most durable and weather-resistant?
- Which roof top tent fits my budget?
- How do I find a tent that's easy to set up and take down?
- What features should I look for to ensure a comfortable night's sleep?
Overview
In this comprehensive guide, we will provides an overview of the best rooftop tents, highlighting their key features, pros and cons, ease of setup, weather resistance, mattress comfort, and suitability for different camping scenarios.
The article likely evaluates and compares popular models from reputable brands, offering insights to help readers make an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences.
Whether you're a seasoned overlander or just getting started with car camping, find the perfect roof tent to elevate your next road trip. From hardshell low-profile models to spacious canvas tents, this article will address some common pain points and provide you with the best roof top tents to help you choose the right one.
Table of Contents
- Best Electric Roof Top Tent: Bundutec Bundutop
- Best Luxury Roof Top Tent: Freespirit Recreation Evolution V2 XL
- Best Lightweight Roof Top Tent: 23Zero Walkabout
- Best Roof Top Tent for Winter: 23Zero Armadillo A2
- Best Budget Roof Top Tent: OVS TMBK
- Best Hard Shell Roof Top Tent: Tuff Stuff Alpha
- Best Soft Shell Roof Top Tent: OVS Nomadic 3
- Best Clamshell Roof Top Tent: OVS Mamba 3
- Best Mattress Roof Top Tent: Freespirit Recreation Aspen Lite
- Hard Shell vs Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
- Roof Top Tents FAQs
Best Overland Roof Top Tents
Bundutec Bundutop Electric Roof Top Tent
Best Preimium Electric Roof Top Tent: Bundutec Bundutop
What we love the most
- Electric opening and closing system
- Spacious interior with built-in mattress
- Durable hard shell construction
- Waterproof and insulated for all-season use
If you are looking for ease of use and quick setup, then Bundutop fully electric RTT is the right choice. This electric roof-top tent opens and closes at the push of a button, so you can spend more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time fussing with setup. The spacious interior features a comfortable mattress and plenty of room for two adults. Due to its durable hard shell construction, it provides reliable protection from the elements.
Pros
- Effortless setup and takedown
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Superior protection from the elements
- Convenient electric operation
Cons
- Higher price point than manual options
- Requires a power source for operation
Freespirit Recreation Evolution V2 XL
Best Luxury Roof Top Tent: Freespirit Recreation Evolution V2 XL
What we love the most
- Spacious interior with king-size mattress
- LED lighting and storage pockets
- Hard shell construction for superior protection
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
For those who refuse to compromise on comfort, the Freespirit Recreation Evolution V2 XL is the ultimate choice. This spacious tent features a king-size mattress, LED lighting, and plenty of headroom for even the tallest campers. The hard shell construction provides superior protection from the elements, while the quick setup and takedown make it easy to move from one luxury campsite to the next.
Pros
- Luxurious and spacious interior
- Superior protection from the elements
- Convenient features like LED lighting and storage pockets
- Easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Higher price point than other options
- Heavier than some other RTTs
23Zero Walkabout
Best Lightweight Roof Top Tent: 23Zero Walkabout
What we love the most
- Lightweight design for easy transport
- High-density foam mattress
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
- Aluminum poles and telescoping ladder
If you want to minimize weight and maximize adventure, the 23Zero Walkabout is the tent for you. This lightweight design weighs at just 93 pounds, making it easy to mount on smaller vehicles or take long trips. Despite its featherweight status, the Walkabout comes with a high-density foam mattress and waterproof fabric, thus offering a comfortable sleeping space for two adults.
Pros
- Easy to mount on smaller vehicles
- Minimizes impact on fuel efficiency
- Comfortable sleeping space for two adults
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
Cons
- Smaller interior than some other options
- Less insulation than expensive roof top tents
23Zero Armadillo A2
Best Roof Top Tent for Winter: 23Zero Armadillo A2
What we love the most
- Insulated hard shell construction
- Thermal liner for added warmth
- Spacious interior with built-in mattress
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
Don't let cold weather keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. The 23Zero Armadillo A2 is built for four-season adventures. This hard shell tent features a thermal liner and insulated shell to keep you warm and cozy in even the chilliest conditions. The spacious interior and built-in mattress provide a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring. Its quick setup and takedown make moving from one campsite to the next easy.
Pros
- Excellent insulation for cold weather camping
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Durable hard shell construction
- Easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Higher price point than some other options
- Heavier than non-insulated designs
Overland Vehicle systems TMBK
Best Budget Roof Top Tent: OVS TMBK
What we love the most
- Spacious 3-person design
- High-density foam mattress
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
- Aluminum poles and telescoping ladder
Who says you have to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of a roof top tent? The OVS TMBK offers all the essential features at an affordable price. This 3-person tent is spacious enough for the whole family. It has a high-density foam mattress and plenty of headroom to feel comfortable inside the tent. The durable construction and waterproof fabric will keep you dry and comfortable in any weather.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Roomy interior for families or groups
- Durable materials for long-lasting use
- Easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Heavier than some other options
- Longer setup time compared to hard shell designs
Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha
Best Hard Shell Roof Top Tent: Tuff Stuff Alpha
What we love the most
- Durable hard shell construction
- Quick and easy gas strut setup
- Spacious interior with built-in mattress
- Waterproof and insulated for all-season use
If you want convenience, comfort, and protection, then the Tuff Stuff Alpha is a great choice. This hard shell tent sets up in seconds, with a gas strut system that does the heavy lifting for you. Once inside, you'll enjoy a spacious, well-ventilated interior with a plush foam mattress. When it's time to hit the road, the Alpha folds down into a sleek and aerodynamic package.
Pros
- Lightning-fast setup and takedown
- Superior protection from the elements
- Comfortable and well-ventilated interior
- Aerodynamic design for improved fuel efficiency
Cons
- Higher price point than soft shell options
- Heavier than some other hard shell designs
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3
Best Soft Shell Roof Top Tent: OVS Nomadic 3
What we love the most
- Extended design for extra headroom and space
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
- High-density foam mattress
- Aluminum poles and telescoping ladder
If you prefer a soft shell tent's classic look and feel, the OVS Nomadic 3 is a top choice. This extended model offers extra headroom and living space, making it a comfortable option for taller campers or those who like to spread out. The waterproof fabric and sturdy aluminum poles provide reliable protection from the elements, while the foam mattress and quilted interior keep you cozy all night long.
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Durable materials for long-lasting use
- Versatile soft shell design
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Longer setup time compared to hard shell options
- Heavier than some other soft shell designs
Overland Vehicle Systems Mamba 3
Best Clamshell Roof Top Tent: OVS Mamba 3
What we love the most
- Unique clamshell design for easy setup and takedown
- Spacious interior with built-in mattress
- LED light strip and storage pockets
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
With its innovative clamshell design, the OVS Mamba 3 offers the best of both worlds. This tent opens up like a book, creating a spacious, well-ventilated interior with panoramic views. It comes with a built-in mattress and LED light strip to provide added comfort and convenience. This RTT has a waterproof fabric and sturdy frame to protect you from weather elements.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Panoramic views and excellent ventilation
- Durable materials for all-weather use
Cons
- Higher price point than some other options
- Heavier than traditional soft shell designs
Tuff Stuff Overland Alpine
Best Aluminum Roof Top Tent: Tuff Stuff Alpine
What we love the most
- Lightweight aluminum shell
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
- High-density foam mattress
- Telescoping ladder and mounting brackets included
The Tuff Stuff Alpine is a rugged and reliable choice for adventurous people who love to explore rough terrain. This aluminum shell tent is built to withstand the most challenging conditions, with a sturdy frame and waterproof fabric. Inside, you'll find a cozy foam mattress and plenty of room for two adults. The easy-to-use mounting system and telescoping ladder make setting up camp a breeze.
Pros
- Durable construction for all-weather use
- Quick and easy setup
- Comfortable sleeping space for two adults
- Lightweight design for improved fuel efficiency
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other options
- Limited color choices
Freespirit Recreation Aspen Lite
Best Mattress Roof Top Tent: Freespirit Recreation Aspen Lite
What we love the most
- High-density foam mattress for superior comfort
- Lightweight design for easy transport
- Waterproof and UV-resistant fabric
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
A good night's sleep is essential for any camping trip, and the Freespirit Recreation Aspen Lite delivers. This tent features a high-density foam mattress that rivals your bed at home, ensuring a comfortable and restful night under the stars. The lightweight design and quick setup make it easy to take this tent on any adventure. It is built with waterproof fabric, and sturdy construction provides reliable protection from the elements.
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable sleeping surface
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Durable materials for long-lasting use
- Quick and easy to set up and take down
Cons
- Smaller interior than some other options
- Less insulation than expensive roof top tents
Hard Shell vs Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
Hardshell rooftop tents, also known as clamshell tents, feature a rigid, weatherproof exterior that offers several advantages:
- Quick and easy setup: Most hard shell tents can be set up in under a minute, making them ideal for frequent campers or those who value convenience.
- Aerodynamic design: The streamlined shape of hard shell tents reduces wind resistance and noise while driving, thus improving fuel efficiency and overall driving experience.
- Durability: The sturdy construction of hard shell tents provides excellent protection against the elements and can withstand heavy rain, wind, and even snow.
- Increased security: When closed, hard shell tents create a secure, lockable storage space for bedding and gear.
However, hard shell tents also have some drawbacks:
- Higher cost: Hard shell tents are generally more expensive than soft shell alternatives due to their complex design and materials.
- Added weight: The rigid construction of hard shell tents makes them heavier, which may affect your vehicle's handling and fuel consumption.
Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Softshell rooftop tents are made from flexible, lightweight materials and offer their own set of benefits:
- Affordability: Soft shell tents are more budget-friendly than hard shell models, making them a great choice for those looking to save money.
- Lightweight design: Soft shell roof top tents are constructed with lightweight materials that make them easier to handle and less likely to impact your vehicle's performance.
- Spacious interior: Many soft shell tents offer more headroom and living space than hard shell tents, thus offering a more comfortable camping experience.
- Versatility: Soft shell tents can be adapted to fit a broader range of vehicles, especially those with lower load capacities.
On the other hand, soft shell tents also have some limitations:
- Longer setup time: Soft shell tents usually require more time and effort to set up and take down than hard shell models.
- Reduced aerodynamics: The soft, flexible material can create more wind resistance and noise while driving.
- Less durability: While soft shell tents are sturdy, they may not withstand extreme weather conditions.
Making Your Choice
The decision between a hard shell and soft shell roof top tent depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors such as:
- Frequency of use
- Desired setup time
- Vehicle compatibility
- Climate and weather conditions
- Available storage space
- Personal comfort preferences
By weighing these factors and understanding the unique benefits of each type of roof top tent, you'll be well-equipped to choose the perfect shelter for your next camping adventure. Whether you opt for the quick setup and durability of a hard shell tent or the affordability and spaciousness of a soft shell model, a roof top tent is sure to elevate your outdoor experience to new heights.
Roof Top Tents Common Questions
Are roof top tents easy to set up and take down?
Yes, roof-top tents are designed for quick and easy setup and takedown. Many models can be fully set up in under 5 minutes by just one person. For the fastest setup, look for tents with pre-assembled frames, hydraulic struts, and quick-release ladder brackets.
How secure are roof top tents on my vehicle while driving?
Roof top tents mount very securely to your vehicle's roof rack or aftermarket roof bars. High-quality mounting systems use heavy-duty metal brackets and bolts to create a stable, wobble-free attachment, even at highway speeds. For maximum security, make sure to follow the manufacturer's installation and weight limit guidelines.
What do I need to install a roof top tent?
To install a roof top tent, you'll need the following essential gear:
- Roof rack or crossbars
- Mounting brackets (usually included with the tent)
- Ladder (often included with the tent)
What tools are required to install a rooftop tent?
You'll need the following tools to install your rooftop tent:
- Wrench or socket set
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
Can I leave my bedding inside the tent during travel?
Yes, a major advantage of roof top tents is being able to leave your sleeping bags and pillows inside during transport. This is a huge time-saver compared to ground tents. Most roof top tents have ample headroom to accommodate bedding while in the closed position. Some even have built-in mattresses.
How well do roof top tents handle windy or rainy weather?
Roof top tents are built to withstand harsh weather much better than ground tents. The thick, waterproof canvas and sturdy frames can handle heavy rain and moderate winds with ease. Some models also have wind-resistant aerodynamic designs. For the best protection, look for tents with fully-taped waterproof seams and included rainflys.
Will a roof top tent affect my vehicle's fuel efficiency?
A roof top tent will have a small impact on your vehicle's aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. However, the difference is minimal, usually averaging less than 1-2 mpg. The convenience of having a comfortable, go-anywhere sleeping solution is well worth the slight reduction in fuel economy for most owners.
Can I use a roof top tent with any vehicle?
Most roof top tents are compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, crossovers, wagons, and pickup trucks. The key requirement is having a factory or aftermarket roof rack that can support the weight of the tent and occupants. Always check the tent's weight rating and your vehicle's roof load capacity before purchasing.
How do I choose the right roof top tent?
When selecting a roof top tent, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a tent that comfortably fits your desired number of occupants and bedding.
- Weight: Ensure your vehicle's roof rack can support the tent's weight and the weight of the occupants.
- Ease of setup: Look for tents with quick, one-person setup systems for convenience.
- Durability: Opt for tents that are made with high-quality, waterproof materials and sturdy frames for long-lasting performance.
- Seasonality: Consider the climate you'll be camping in and choose a tent with appropriate insulation and ventilation.
- Additional features: Look for tents with useful extras like built-in mattresses, LED lighting, and gear storage pockets.
- Budget: Determine your budget and look for the best value tent that meets your needs and quality expectations.
What is the typical weight of a roof top tent?
Roof top tents vary in weight depending on their size, materials, and features. Most hardshell roof top tents weigh between 100-200 pounds, while softshell tents usually weigh between 75-150 pounds. Always check the manufacturer's specifications and ensure your vehicle's roof rack can support the tent's weight.
How do I maintain and clean my roof top tent?
To keep your roof top tent in top condition, regularly clean the fabric with a mild soap and water solution, and rinse thoroughly. Lubricate zippers and hinges with silicone spray to prevent sticking and corrosion. When storing the tent for extended periods, ensure it is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions for best results.
Can I use a roof top tent for winter camping?
Yes, many roof top tents are suitable for winter camping with proper insulation and preparation. Look for tents with thick, insulated walls and condensation-resistant fabrics. Some tents even have built-in insulation and ventilation systems for optimal cold-weather performance. Additionally, use warm bedding and a portable heater for a comfortable winter camping experience.
Are roof top tents more expensive than traditional ground tents?
Yes, roof top tents are generally more expensive than traditional ground tents due to their durable materials, sturdy construction, and specialized mounting systems. However, many campers find the added comfort, convenience, and versatility of roof top tents well worth the investment. Additionally, roof top tents often have a longer lifespan than ground tents, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
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