Although rooftop tents have been around since the 1930s in Europe, a rising interest in four-wheel drive touring with these tents has only recently brought them into popularity in the United States. People love them for their classic adventurous looks, safety from animals on the ground, thick comfortable mattresses, and, of course, their ease of setup compared to the traditional stake-and-pole tents we were all raised on.
With so many aspects to consider and the massive array of choices in today’s market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Instead of leaving you to browse the web for hours in search of information, we’ve done some of the footwork and assembled a list of soft-shell tents currently available in North America. While it doesn’t contain everything you’ll need to make a decision, we certainly hope that it makes the process easier.
- Know the roof top tent you are going to buy: Many people assume that roof top tents are almost similar with small differences in branding. The truth is that quality and durability can vary widely from tent to tent. Just because two tents look alike, doesn’t mean they are the same. The structures, fabric types, and shell materials between tents may be different. However, sometimes, the roof top tents may be the same. The market has recently been flooded with various companies claiming to be producing “new” roof top tents. Amazingly they all look the same, and that is because for the most parts they are. Nearly all of the Chinese tents are manufactured in the same two or three plants, so only logos, colors, and some small components might change. This doesn’t always make them bad quality, but be sure to thoroughly investigate the price and materials before purchase.
Compatibility with Your Vehicle and Roof Racks: Before buying a rooftop tent, ensure it is compatible with your vehicle’s roof rack system. Check the weight capacity of your roof rack and the tent’s weight to ensure safe installation. Additionally, consider the dimensions of the tent and how it will affect your vehicle’s aerodynamics and clearance.
Material and Weather Resistance: The quality of materials used in the tent is crucial for durability and weather resistance. Look for tents made from high-quality, waterproof fabrics with sturdy zippers and reinforced seams. Consider the tent’s insulation and ventilation features to ensure comfort in various weather conditions, from hot summer nights to chilly winter camping.