Do you want to explore nature and the outdoors despite weather conditions during camping? If yes, then this guide on 10 Best Rooftop Tents is just what you need.
A Rooftop Tent keeps you safe from the ground, so you do not have to worry about getting dirty or being bitten by a poisonous creature.
And the tents that we have shared are high-quality tents and are highly durable and ideal if you love camping. You can invest in any one of these if you want to stay dry in rainy weather while enjoying your time on a trip.
Also the guide we have shared covers the best options based on quality, material, price, durability, space, etc. So let’s get into it!
How does A Rooftop Tent Work?
It is a type of tent that is adjusted on the bed or roof of a vehicle so you can safely and comfortably sleep while on a trip without consuming the internal load space of your vehicle.
Read: How Do We Review A Tent?
Best Rooftop Tents
Here are our 10 best options of Best Rooftop Tents:
- Best quality: YAKIMA Rooftop Tent
- Best resistant: SAMCAMEL 6 Person Camping Tent
- Best round shape: Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent with Annex
- Best weight: Cabin Screen Shelter
- Best for extreme weather: Front Runner Roof Top Tent Shower Skirt
- Best rainfly: TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent
- Best for comfort: Campoint Rooftop Tent Annex
- Best facilities: 270 Awning Rooftop Tent Sun Shelter
- Best for SUV: KingCamp Awning Shelter SUV Tent
- Best for couples: Car Rooftop Tent
1. YAKIMA Rooftop Tent – Best quality
A waterproof PU-coated 210D ripstop nylon constructed rooftop tent is perfect for having a dry space so you can sleep well.
A storage duffel bag comes with the tent for storage purposes and to save the tent from getting wear and tear.
Features:
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Floor-length: 24 inches
- Maximum height: 96 inches
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It will add additional dry space at a base camp so you can sleep and get recharged for the next day’s adventure.
- The waterproof material will keep the living space, and you dry
- Easy entry and exit from the tent
- There are 2 zippered mesh windows for better ventilation
Cons
- Attaching this tent to the rooftop is a little hard
What makes it a better option than all others?
It’s built with waterproof material, so your items and you don’t get wet while it rains outside.
Setting up this tent is not difficult. Entry and exit from the tent are also quite easy and simple.
You are getting mesh windows, so you don’t feel suffocated while lying or sleeping in the tent. These are the reasons that make this tent simply great.
Our experience with the product
Okay, I was a bit confused about whether I need to buy this add-on for my vehicle’s rooftop or not.
Well, I then made up my mind that I would get this. I ordered, and voila, I received and am super satisfied with the quality of the material.
This rooftop tent is great. I am an adventure lover, and while on an adventure, I never liked to sleep in my car.
I don’t have to anymore because I have got my rooftop tent. I loved it. So, order it, folks. You will also like it, and it would work for you.
2. SAMCAMEL 6 Person Camping Tent – Best resistant
This camping tent would be able to accommodate 6 sleeping bags. It has a water resistance of 1000 milliliters.
There are two windows on the front side and one large window on the backside that would be enough to maintain the ventilation system inside the tent.
Features:
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Water resistance: 1000 milliliters
- Space: 10.5ft long, 6.8ft wide, 6.2ft high
Pros And cons
Pros
- The durable 210T waterproof polyester top and walls make this camping tent durable
- The tent floor is 210D Oxford with PE coated polyester, so you don’t have to worry about getting water inside the tent
- 2 people can set up this tent within 5 minutes
- Moving inside the tent is super easy
Cons
- The inside space is not what you read in the features. It is quite small
3. Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent with Annex – Best Round Shape
For 4 people, this rooftop tent is simply ideal. Setting up this tent would be a simple, easy task for you.
This tent comes with an extended privacy canopy with a removable annex. There are mesh panels for better ventilation and airflow inside the tent.
Features:
- Weight: 150 pounds
- Material: Polyester
- Special feature: UV protection
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Imported material has been used in manufacturing this tent, making it durable and long-lasting.
- You can get all the privacy you need inside the tent
- It can withstand the elements of any season
- It has got a special feature, and that is UV resistance
Cons
- It is an expensive 4 person rooftop tent
4. Cabin Screen Shelter – Best weight
For extra protection against windy and rainy weather, this tent comes with 7 stakes and 7 tie-downs.
The rain fly would provide extra protection, so you and your belongings stay dry inside the tent. This tent would easily accommodate 6 people.
Features:
- Weight: 50 pounds
- Occupancy: 6 persons
- Frame material: fiberglass
Pros And Cons
Pros
- An oversized carry bag is part of the package for easy re-packing
- You get all the extra protection from windy weather once you are inside the tent
- It has extra-large and flexes tested 11mm fiberglass poles to make the tent super sturdy
- The hub pulls straps make the setup procedure easier for you
Cons
- The screen area doesn’t have a floor
5. Front Runner Roof Top Tent Shower Skirt – Best for extreme weather
It is an accessory for your rooftop tent to keep it safe from different seasons. Additional private space for sleeping.
The two screened windows with screen doors with solid roll-down flaps. It also has an easy entrance and exit because of the zippered door.
Features:
- Weight: 17.6 pounds
- Floor-length: 134 inches
- Closure type: drawstring
Pros And Cons
Pros
- It is light in weight and waterproof
- This tent annex will provide you with extra space for sleeping
- The zip-off waterproof floor would be ideal for having extra dry sleeping space
Cons
- Attaching the annex with a tent won’t be easy
6. TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent – Best Rainfly
It has a marine-grade 600D rip-stop polyester waterproof body and a 420D polyester oxford waterproof rain-fly.
It has stainless steel hardware with a 550g transportation cover. It also comes with a telescoping ladder. This tent accommodates two adults.
Features:
- Weight: 108 pounds
- Material: Rip-Stop Base & Rain Fly
- Special feature: Insulated Reinforced Base
Pros And Cons
Pros
- It is waterproof, so it would work in any season
- Assembling this rooftop tent will take minutes
- It is extremely light in weight
- It is a universal fit rooftop tent
Cons
- It doesn’t have any specific con
7. Campoint Rooftop Tent Annex – Best for comfort
This tent uses good quality fabric and has even sealed sewing. It can accommodate 3 people.
With the zipper closure type, you can conveniently enter and exit the tent. The heavy-duty PVC floor is removable in this tent.
Features:
- Floor-length: 96 inches
- Closure Type: Zipper
- Fabric: Polyester
Pros And Cons
Pros
- It comes with a zippered rear door to enter your vehicle from the tent directly.
- The two mesh windows will maintain the airflow inside the tent
- It is easy to carry and works for the long term too.
Cons
- The zipper system for installation doesn’t come with the tent.
8. 270 Awning Rooftop Tent Sun Shelter -Best Facilities
Waterproof ultra-thick 600D ripstop Oxford cloth fabric has been used to make this item, and it will work with any vehicle.
It is a great fit for Jeeps, SUVs, trucks, and other large vehicles. It has a very nice sized awning too.
Features:
- Weight: 550 grams
- Material: Aluminum
- Dimensions LxWxH: 104.33 x 3.94 x 5.91 inches
Pros And Cons
Pros
- A perfect fit for your outdoor picnic and outing plans because it provides you with some shelter
- It will reduce the temperature and offers comfort on summer days
- Installing this awning is super easy, and it won’t take you long
- It uses waterproof, durable and long-lasting material
Cons
- The product is flimsy and not stable
9. KingCamp Awning Shelter SUV Tent – Best SUV
The car shelter comprises rip-stop 210T polyester fabric with a 1500mm PU coating. There are air vents for better airflow.
It consists of 3 shock-corded fiberglass poles and 2 steel canopy poles. It can be used as a gazebo by roping the shelter to the vehicle.
Features:
- Weight: 9.7 pounds
- Dimensions LxWxH: 124 x 84.6 x 74.8 inches
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 3 persons
Pros And Cons
Pros
- High-quality material and sturdy construction make this product more durable and long-lasting.
- Assembling this awning shelter is an easy job.
- It only weighs 9.7 lbs, making it highly portable
- It includes 2 wind ropes to provide extra protection against windy weather
Cons
- It doesn’t have any specific con
Read: 10 Best 20×20 Tent
10. Car Rooftop Tent – Best for couples
This car rooftop tent is a mixture of ABS hardshell and PU 3000mm waterproof coating. It has an automatic setup system.
The opening size of 124 x 84.6 x 74.8 inches gives you ample space to enter and exit the tent. The telescopic ladder will connect both sides of the tent.
Features:
- Weight: 154 pounds
- Water resistance: 3000 millimeters
- Design: Vehicle-mounted tent
Pros And Cons
Pros
- This rooftop tent can withstand strong, windy and rainy weather for a safer camping experience
- It will take you about 10 seconds to set up this tent
- For a wonderful family camping and adventure plans, this car rooftop tent is an ideal option
- You get to enjoy comfortable and better sleep with the sponge and soft cushions
Cons
- You will have to buy a roof rack separately to mount the tent on your vehicle’s roof
Comparison
| PRODUCT | Rating | Price | Best For | Material | Recommended For | Capacity |
| YAKIMA Rooftop Tent | 3.9/5 | $248.95 – $298.95 | Quality | Nylon, Polyurethane | Camping & Hiking | 3 Person |
| SAMCAMEL 6 Person Camping Tent | 4.3/5 | $168.89 | Resistance | Polyester | Camping & Hiking | 6 Person |
| Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent With Annex | 3.7/5 | $2,249.96 | Round Shape | Polyester | Camping & Hiking | 4 Person |
| Cabin Screen Shelter | 4.4/5 | $479.99 | Weight | Polyester | Camping & Hiking | 6 Person |
| Front Runner Roof Top Tent Shower Skirt | 4.5/5 | N/A | Extreme Weather | Fabric | Tailgate | N/A |
What To Keep In Mind While Buying Rooftop Tent?
You have to keep in mind many factors when buying a rooftop tent. Find below.
Quality of material
The first thing you need to make sure of is that the rooftop is made up of quality material.
If you want durability, the rooftop tent must have good material that can resist extreme usage in the long term.
Sleeping Arrangements
You should see what type of equipment the rooftop tent comes with. It should have a good floor.
It will enhance your sleeping arrangements, and you will be able to sleep peacefully within your rooftop tent.
Softshell Versus Hard Shell
There are two types of rooftop tents available. One comprises a soft material. However, the other comprises a hard rigid material.
Depending upon the place where you are traveling and the size of your vehicle, you should choose according to your convenience.
Read: 10 Best 20×20 Tent
Read: 10 Best Trampoline Tent
Conclusion
A rooftop tent is the best accessory for travelers. You should keep it in your home if you are traveling long distances.
The rooftop tent can be one of your travel partners as it will make sure that you get quality sleep during your travel.
If you take a good and comfortable sleep, that is the only case that you will enjoy even the small details of your trip.
We have discussed some of the best rooftop tents that you can buy. You can choose the one that serves you the best.
Frequently asked questions
Do we need a roof rack for a rooftop tent?
Yes, it is required to have a roof rack for a rooftop tent. This will keep your rooftop tent fixed, and you can adjust it firmly.
You can easily get a roof rack along with the rooftop tent. It can also be available separately.
Is a rooftop tent easy to steal?
You need to make sure that you do not leave your rooftop tent on your vehicle while you are away.
This is because the rooftop tent can be easily stolen. It can be easily detached and attached to your vehicle, which is the main reason it can be stolen easily.
How much weight does the rooftop tent support?
The rooftop tent will support as much weight as the vehicle can support without the roof rack or the crossbar.
According to estimation, it can be between 100 to 160 pounds.
You do not have to worry about that because the rooftop tent is made to support your body weight easily.
You just need to be sure about the size and space of the rooftop tent according to the vehicle you have attached it to.
Shefali Jain is a Content Editor & Writer at National Planning Cycles.
After completing her graduation in hospitality, Shefali decided to follow her passion and started writing. Shefali has been writing for two years now and contributes to our website as a skilled editor and content writer with strong research skills. Writing product and service reviews, biographies, and book reviews are some of her key areas, among many others in which she specializes.
ARTICLE SOURCES
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- https://www.kingcampoutdoors.com/products/awning-shelter-suv-tent[↩]
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