How roof top tents came to be
Fast forward to today, and most rooftop tents practically set themselves up. Seriously, even if you’re a total newbie, you can have it ready to go in under five minutes. Modern designs use gas struts to lift the tent shell once you release the latches. Depending on the model, you might just need to unfold an expansion panel and set up the ladder.
How roof top tents came to be
Rooftop tents actually have a cool history. They first popped up in Europe during the mid-20th century, just as car tourism was taking off. These tents were a game changer for independent travelers. No more stressing about whether that roadside motel is fully booked when you roll into a new town! Plus, they save you some cash by skipping the hotel fees.
The original designs were pop-up styles with a hard shell and a fold-out canvas—now we call that the “soft shell” style. Back then, they were often referred to as “Air Camping” because, well, you were camping way up high on your car. The concept caught on quickly, and now we’ve got all sorts of designs: fold-out hard shells like the , hybrid tents, wedge-style tents, and even tiny ones that fit compact cars.
What is a Roof Top Tent The Ultimate Guide to Roof TopTents
August 01, 20
Now, whether you prefer a minimalist or maximalist approach to camping, there are a few essentials you’ll want to pack for your next adventure:
Check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing, bug spray, and sunscreen.
Bring lights like flashlights, lanterns, or headlamps—not just for comfort but also for safety after dark.
Don’t forget to pack enough water—about liter per person per day—and bags for your trash.
Toiletries, including toilet paper and hygiene items, especially if you’re camping in the wild.
And if you want to take your setup up a notch, consider adding an annex for extra shelter or some handy storage racks to keep essentials close by.
So, are you ready to hit the road with a rooftop tent? Let’s make some epic memories out there!
Do I need anything to go with a roof top tent?
Alright, friends, let’s talk about rooftop tents! With so many options out there, there’s definitely a rooftop tent for every vehicle—no need to have a fancy off-road rig. For instance, the PeakRoof LT Series works great for compact cars and truck bed racks, while the king-size PeakRoof Series is perfect for larger vehicles like SUVs.
The key is to do a little research and find a tent that fits your needs, your car, and your budget. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Weight Limits: Check how much weight your vehicle can handle—both static (when parked) and dynamic (when driving)—and compare that to the weight of the tent.
Tent Dimensions: Make sure the dimensions of the tent fit on your vehicle’s roof.
Mounting: Think about how you’ll attach the tent. Does your car already have rails or crossbars? Do those align with the mounting hardware on the tent? Sometimes your car might be the perfect size, but the crossbars just don’t work, and you might need a roof rack to make it all happen.
Most tent manufacturers will provide detailed specs to help you make an informed choice. If you’re unsure about roof racks or weight limits, don’t hesitate to reach out to the customer service teams of these RTT brands—they’re usually super helpful!
And if you really want to get hands-on, check out dealer locations for these tents. It’s a great way to see them up close and compare different models to find the perfect fit for your next adventure.
So, get out there and find the rooftop tent that suits you and your ride!
Do I need a special car for roof top tents?
So, why should you consider a rooftop tent? Here are ten solid reasons:
Easy Setup: No camping experience required. Just hop in your car, drive to a campsite, and lift the latch on your tent.
Starlit Sleeping: You can car camp while still enjoying the fresh air and views. Many rooftop tents even come with skylights for that extra romantic touch.
Better Views: Say goodbye to obstructed scenery. Being up top means you get to soak in those killer views without the picnic table or nearby campers in the way.
More Space Inside: They free up your vehicle's storage, letting you organize your gear without blocking your view.
Go Anywhere: If your car can reach it, so can your tent. Perfect for overlanding and dispersed camping without the hassle of towing a trailer.
Built-in Mattress: Most rooftop tents come with a mattress stored inside, so you can ditch the cots and air beds.
Comfort and Convenience: They’re comfier than traditional tents and way more affordable than RVs.
Up Off the Ground: You won’t have to worry about finding a flat spot to pitch your tent. Plus, being elevated means fewer critters wandering through your sleeping area.
Weather Protection: Camp more comfortably during the shoulder seasons. You won’t be wicking up mud, rain, or snow.
Warmer Nights: Sleeping on your vehicle's roof keeps you warmer compared to the cold ground.
What is the point of a roof top tent?
Roof top tents have been making headlines as one of the best ways to camp, but what is a roof top tent? A roof top tent is a portable shelter mounted to the roof of your vehicle or rack system. They are quick to deploy, favored by overlanders, and bridge the gap between a traditional tent and a recreational vehicle.
What is a roof top tent?
