Kathryn Elrod

Written by Kathryn Elrod

Published: 10 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

5-best-rooftop-tents
Source: Outdoorgearlab.com

If you enjoy spending time outdoors and camping, then you may have heard about rooftop tents. These innovative camping shelters provide a unique and comfortable way to sleep under the stars. In this article, we will be discussing the 5 best rooftop tents available on the market. Whether you're an experienced camper or new to the world of outdoor adventures, this list will help you find the perfect rooftop tent for your next camping trip. So, let's dive in and explore the top 5 rooftop tents that are worth considering for your next outdoor excursion.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 9/10

The Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell is a spacious and convenient hardtop rooftop tent designed for camping. The tent is equipped with a comprehensive set of accessories, including LED light strips and a thick mattress. Its aluminum alloy shell and stainless steel gas bar provide durability and strength. The three-layer mattress ensures a comfortable rest, while the ample storage space and mesh windows offer convenience and functionality. Additionally, the waterproof and breathable fabric makes it suitable for various weather conditions. The tent's specifications include a large size and a color of black.

Key Features

  • Complete accessories for convenient travel
  • Easy to set up in seconds
  • Aluminum alloy shell + stainless steel gas bar
  • Top configuration 3-layer mattress
  • Spacious with ample storage space
  • Truck bed tent with LED lights and mesh windows
  • Sun protection, waterproof, and breathable

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 83.00Lx51.00Wx59.00H
  • Size: Large

Pros

  • Comes with complete accessories for convenience
  • Easy to set up in seconds
  • Durable aluminum alloy shell
  • Spacious with ample storage space
  • Waterproof and breathable

Cons

  • Main entrance zipper design issue
  • Heavy to lift onto the car
  • May affect gas mileage due to wind resistance

The Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell offers exceptional value for its price, with high-quality materials, convenient features, and excellent customer service. While there are minor design issues, the overall durability, functionality, and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for camping enthusiasts.

Overall Score: 9/10

The Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent is a standard size tent that sleeps 2-3 people. It comes with a high-density foam mattress, waterproof top, rain fly, side windows with mosquito netting, telescopic ladder, and interior LED strips. It is easy to set up and take down, and includes mounting brackets for installation. The tent is compatible with the Smittybilt Tent Annex for additional privacy, and is available in Size XL for larger groups. The customer rating is 4.6/5, and reviews highlight the tent's quality, comfort, and ease of use.

Key Features

  • Standard size tent sleeps 2-3
  • High-density foam mattress
  • Waterproof top and rain fly
  • Side windows with mosquito netting
  • Telescopic ladder
  • Interior LED strips

Specifications

  • Color: Tan
  • Dimension: 0.00Lx0.00Wx0.00H

Pros

  • Quality material and parts
  • Roomy and sturdy design
  • Quick and easy setup and takedown
  • Comes with interior LED light
  • Good ventilation and waterproofing

Cons

  • Ladder may be difficult to use
  • Thicker mattress needed for side sleepers
  • Rain fly poles can be challenging to set up
  • Customer service response time
  • Nuts and bolts may require frequent tightening

The Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent offers exceptional quality, ease of setup, and comfortable camping experience. Despite some minor issues with accessories and customer service, the tent’s outstanding features, solid construction, and positive user reviews make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Smittybilt Overlander XL Roof Top Tent (Coyote Tan) – 2883 is a large rooftop tent designed to comfortably sleep 3-4 people, with a heavy-duty 600D rip stop polyester construction. The tent is waterproof, equipped with mosquito screens, and features a 60mm high density foam mattress with a removable cover. Other features include telescoping aluminum ladder, LED strip interior light, anodized aluminum frame poles, and mounting brackets. The tent comes with a one year manufacturer warranty and has dimensions of 76.00Lx122.00Wx51.00H. Customer reviews generally praise the tent for its comfort, roominess, and durability, while some have noted minor issues such as the mattress comfort and customer service.

Key Features

  • Coyote tan || Stainless steel hinges
  • Heavy-duty 600D rip stop polyester
  • Open size: 122" W x 76" L x 51" H || Load capacity: 770 lbs || Sleeps: 3-4
  • Waterproof || Mosquito screens
  • 60mm high density foam mattress with removable cover
  • Telescoping aluminum ladder || LED strip interior light
  • Anodized aluminum frame poles
  • Mounting brackets included
  • One year manufacturer warranty

Specifications

  • Dimension: 76.00Lx122.00Wx51.00H

Pros

  • Comfortable and roomy
  • Durable materials and construction
  • Easy setup and breakdown

Cons

  • Issues with mattress comfort
  • Some complaints about customer service

The Smittybilt Overlander XL Roof Top Tent offers a spacious and comfortable camping experience with its durable construction and thoughtful features. While there may be some minor issues reported by customers, the overall feedback is positive, making it a great option for camping enthusiasts.

Overall Score: 8/10

The TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly Tan Base & Green Rainfly is a spacious, durable, and waterproof rooftop tent suitable for 3 people. Made with high-quality materials, this tent comes with a comfortable foam mattress, insulation, and breathable windows, making it suitable for different weather conditions. The tent can be installed easily without the need for drilling or modification to your vehicle if equipped with a factory or aftermarket roof rack. With a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5, users love this tent for its quality construction, ease of assembly, and durability. However, some users note the lack of instructions for assembly and minor issues with the rain fly collecting water. Overall, this rooftop tent offers great value for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.

Key Features

  • Marine Grade 600D Rip-Stop Polyester Body
  • 420D Polyester Oxford Waterproof Rain Fly
  • Breathable Windows and Foam Mattress
  • Insulated Base and Stainless Steel Hardware

Specifications

  • Color: Tan Body with Green Rain Fly
  • Dimension: 50.00Lx12.00Wx57.00H
  • Size: 3 person

Pros

  • High-quality materials and construction
  • Spacious and comfortable design
  • Easy installation without vehicle modification

Cons

  • Lack of instructions for assembly
  • Rain fly collecting water

The TMBK 3 Person Roof Top Tent with Rain Fly is a reliable and well-built option for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers. While it may have some minor issues, its overall quality, durability, and spacious design make it a great choice for camping and adventurous trips.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Campoint 2-3 Person Sunroof Rooftop Tent is a spacious and durable tent designed for comfortable outdoor camping. It features an extra-large rain fly, side windows, and front/back entrances with mosquito netting. The high-density foam mattress provides a cozy sleeping experience, while the aluminium telescopic ladder adds convenience. While some customers have mentioned issues with assembly and durability, others have praised the tent's portability and value for the money. Overall, it offers a practical and affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Key Features

  • 2-3 person tent with high-density foam mattress
  • 600D heavy-duty waterproof top with sunroof
  • Side windows, extra-large rain fly, and mosquito netting
  • Aluminium telescopic ladder and PVC rooftop cover

Specifications

  • Color: Khaki
  • Dimension: 57.09Lx49.21Wx11.02H

Pros

  • Spacious and durable design
  • High-density foam mattress for comfortable sleep
  • Convenient aluminium telescopic ladder
  • Extra-large rain fly and side windows for ventilation

Cons

  • Assembly and durability issues reported by some users
  • Thin mattress may require additional padding for side sleepers
  • Potential for water pooling above the ladder

The Campoint 2-3 Person Sunroof Rooftop Tent offers a practical and affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts, with its spacious design, high-density foam mattress, and extra-large rain fly. While some users have reported assembly and durability issues, many have found it to be a valuable purchase. Overall, it provides a comfortable and convenient camping experience.

Best Rooftop Tents Buyer's Guide

  • Consider Your Vehicle: Make sure your car or truck can support the weight of a rooftop tent, and that it has the proper roof rack or mounting system.
  • Size Matters: Choose a tent that fits your needs, whether it's for two people or a whole family. Consider the weight and size of the tent when making your decision.
  • Material Quality: Look for tents made from durable and waterproof materials. You want something that will hold up in various weather conditions.
  • Ease of Setup: Check how easy it is to set up and take down the tent. You don't want to struggle with it every time you go camping.
  • Comfort: Consider the thickness and quality of the mattress that comes with the tent. You want to ensure a good night's sleep.
  • Storage: Look for tents with extra storage pockets or gear lofts to keep your belongings organized.
  • Ventilation: Make sure the tent has enough windows and ventilation to keep the air circulating while you sleep.
  • Access: Consider how easy it is to get in and out of the tent, especially if you have kids or pets.
  • Durability: Look for tents with strong zippers, reinforced stitching, and sturdy poles to ensure they can withstand the elements.
  • Additional Features: Some tents come with add-ons like annex rooms, awnings, or LED lighting. Consider if these extras are important to you.
  • Warranty: Check the warranty and customer service of the tent manufacturer in case you encounter any issues.
  • Reviews: Read reviews from other campers to get a sense of the overall quality and performance of the rooftop tents you're considering.
  • Price: Set a budget and stick to it. Remember that you get what you pay for, but there are options to fit every budget.
  • Weight Capacity: Pay attention to the weight capacity of the tent, ensuring it can accommodate the number of people you plan to have inside.
  • Seasonality: Look for tents that are suitable for the types of weather and seasons you plan to camp in. Some are designed for all-season use, while others are better for specific conditions.
  • Installation: Consider how easy or difficult it is to install the rooftop tent on your vehicle. Some may require professional installation.
  • Compatibility: Make sure the tent is compatible with your specific vehicle and roof rack system. Not all tents fit all vehicles.
  • Accessories: Think about any additional accessories you may want to accompany your rooftop tent, such as a ladder extension, anti-condensation mat, or storage bags.
  • Storage Space: When the tent is collapsed, consider how much space it will take up on your vehicle's roof. Some models are more compact than others.
  • Aesthetics: While not the most crucial factor, consider the visual appeal of the tent and how it will look on your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions about 5 Best Rooftop Tents

How do rooftop tents work?

Rooftop tents are designed to be mounted on top of a vehicle and can be easily set up when you reach your destination. They usually unfold, pop up, or slide out to provide a comfortable sleeping area.

Are rooftop tents safe?

Yes, rooftop tents are safe when installed properly and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Just make sure to double-check the setup before using it to ensure it’s secure.

Can any car have a rooftop tent?

Not all cars are suitable for rooftop tents. You’ll need a vehicle with roof racks or a roof rack system to securely attach the tent. It’s important to check the weight capacity of your vehicle’s roof as well.

What are the benefits of using a rooftop tent?

Rooftop tents allow you to elevate your camping experience by providing a comfortable and elevated sleeping area. They also free up space in your vehicle and provide better views of the surroundings.

Are rooftop tents easy to set up and take down?

Yes, rooftop tents are designed to be user-friendly and can be set up and taken down relatively quickly. Some models even come with convenient features like telescoping ladders for easy access.

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