Reminder to Check Your Rooftop Tent Covers Before Putting Them Back on Your Car!!

When you're finishing up an epic camping trip or an adventurous overland journey, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitting the trail and enjoying the great outdoors. But before you store away your beloved rooftop tent (RTT) for the next adventure, take a moment to check it thoroughly. Trust me, it's a small task that can save you from larger headaches later, especially when it comes to the care of your OPENROAD rooftop tent.

Whether you're using a soft top roof tent or a hard shell rooftop tent, ensuring that your tent cover is in top condition before putting it back on your car is crucial. This seemingly simple step helps maintain the longevity of your tent, keeping it safe from elements, insects, and potential damage. Here’s why you shouldn’t skip this check:

1. Insects and Critters: A Hidden Problem

One of the most overlooked aspects of storing your rooftop tent is ensuring it’s free of any unwanted visitors. Spiders, insects, or even larger critters like hexapods may have found refuge in the corners of your tent, especially if you’ve been camping in areas rich in nature. Imagine packing up your tent and unknowingly bringing some unwelcome guests back with you. Not only is this unpleasant, but insects like spiders can sometimes damage your tent fabric or even lay eggs. Before sealing your hard shell rooftop tent or soft top roof tent back onto the car, check for any signs of infestation.

2. Moisture and Mold Prevention

A wet or damp tent cover is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This is especially important if you’ve experienced rain during your camping trip. If the tent cover is still damp when you put it back on the vehicle, you may be setting the stage for a musty, smelly tent next time you deploy it. Always dry your rooftop tent thoroughly before closing it up, and if it's soft-top, be sure to remove any moisture from the folds of the material.

3. Avoiding Wear and Tear

Another good reason to check your rooftop tent covers is to ensure there are no rips, tears, or damage that might have occurred during your camping trip. Whether you're using a cross bar for rooftop tent or the more secure mounting system for your hard shell rooftop tent, ensuring that the cover is still in perfect condition will prevent further damage and ensure its integrity during the next season.

4. Keeping it Clean

Debris, dirt, and even mud can accumulate on the top of your vehicle and on your rooftop tent during an overland or camping trip. Cleaning the tent before you store it away helps prevent dirt build-up that could potentially harm the material or make it harder to clean later. Use a gentle brush or cloth to wipe off any surface dirt or debris before you close the tent cover.

5. Check for Proper Seal

Lastly, don’t forget to check the zipper and seals on your rooftop tent. If any of the zippers are stuck, damaged, or missing teeth, it’s better to fix it before you store it away. A tightly sealed tent will prevent the entry of water, wind, and insects, preserving its integrity during storage.

The Final Checklist:

· Inspect for insects and critters (spiders, insects, hexapods)

· Dry thoroughly to avoid mold or mildew growth

· Clean the tent to remove dirt and debris

· Check for any damage (rips, tears, or punctures)

· Ensure seals and zippers are intact and functional

By taking these simple steps, you can extend the lifespan of your rooftop tent, keeping it ready for your next trail adventure or overland journey. Whether you’re using a hard shell rooftop tent or a soft top roof tent, proper care ensures your tent is in the best shape when you're ready to hit the road again.

Remember, the road to adventure is always waiting for you, but only if you take care of the gear that makes it possible. So, before you put your tent back on the car, check it thoroughly and make sure it’s ready for the next trip to the great outdoors!