If you often go car camping, a rooftop tent can take your camping to the next level.
Not only does it keep you elevated from the ground, but the set-up is quick and convenient compared to a traditional tent.
Of course, a rooftop tent is more expensive compared to regular tents, so you need to know what you’re looking for.
Here are the best rooftop tents on the market today:
- Best Overall Rooftop Tent: Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland
- Best Budget Rooftop Tent: Smittybilt GEN1 Overlander Tent
- Best Premium Rooftop Tent: Thule Approach Tent – Medium
- Best Large Rooftop Tent: Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander Tent XL
- Best Hardshell Rooftop Tent: Roofnest Sparrow EYE 2
- Best Rooftop Space Rooftop Tent: Thule Tepui Foothill Tent
- Best Low-Profile Rooftop Tent: Roofnest Falcon 2
- Best Couples Rooftop Tent: Crua Outdoors AER Maxx
- Best Easy-Set-Up Rooftop Tent: Yakima SkyRise HD Medium
- Best Annex Rooftop Tent: Thule Tepui Explorer Autana
Best Rooftop Tent – Our Top Picks
Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland
Size: 3-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 132 lbs | Max Inside Height: 52″ | Packed Size: 65″ x 48″ x 15″ | Open Size: 65″ x 96″ x 52″ | Set-Up Time: 2-5 mins
8.4 9 8 7 9 8 9 9.2
Ample space, affordable price, easy installation, and excellent weather resistance – what more could you ask for in a rooftop tent? Well, this model by Tuff Stuff checks all the boxes.
This tent lets plenty of air and light in. It features three window openings, all of which have mesh screens and awnings.
In the case of a drizzle, you can lower the awnings to prevent the raindrops from getting in.
This softshell tent features a 420D Oxford polyester rain fly. This strong, lightweight fabric provides great protection from the elements.
When not in use, the included 1000D PVC driving cover keeps the tent safe from damage.
The waterproof storage bag is a nice addition, too. Made of the same material as the cover, the bag is extremely rugged and suitable for storing anything you might need fast access to.
The same goes for the storage hammock, which can be mounted inside or outside the tent.
Pros
- Comes with an annex room that encloses the ladder and gives space for additional storage or a sleeping area
- Features three windows with mesh screens for plenty of air and light
- Low profile and sturdy frame can withstand severe weather, including +70 mph winds, rain, hail, and snow
- Features a storage bag and hammock for keeping essential things close at hand
Cons
- Not the easiest tent to set up
Best for: campers looking for the best value rooftop tent
Smittybilt GEN1 Overlander Tent
Size: 2-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 116.5 lbs | Max Inside Height: 51″ | Packed Size: 58″ x 49″ x 13″ | Open Size: 95″ x 56″ x 51″ | Set-Up Time: 3 mins
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Rooftop tents are generally quite expensive, with high-end models costing up to half of an average monthly salary.
But that’s not the case with this tent by Smittybilt. And what’s great is that, for more than an affordable price, you get a really high-quality product.
First, the heavy-duty 600D Ripstop polyester rain fly has a PU layer that is suitable in rain.
The inner tent features a sunroof and windows with mesh, so it allows plenty of light and air in while keeping the bugs out.
This tent also provides plenty of storage options, with four pockets inside, as well as an external bag for your dirty shoes.
I also like the addition of the LED light strip. It can be attached to the inside with Velcro tape and powered by your car outlet or a USB battery pack.
The only thing I don’t like is that the tent comes with no manual. While you can download one online, you don’t want to find yourself without a manual in an area with no service.
Pros
- You can open the sunroof and enjoy the view of the night sky
- Has plenty of storage options with four pockets and one external shoe bag
- Has an LED light strip attached with Velcro and powered by your car outlet
- Affordable compared to other rooftop tents on the list
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a manual
- Awnings are a little time-consuming to set up
Best for: car campers on a budget
Thule Approach Tent – Medium
Size: 3-person | Season: 3-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 147 lbs 9.6 oz | Max Inside Height: 40″ | Packed Size: 56.3″ x 48.8″ x 11″ | Open Size: 95″ x 56″ x 40″ | Set-Up Time: 3 mins
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Does paying a pretty penny get you a high-quality rooftop tent? Well, it does in the case of this model by Thule.
Considered an all-season model, this tent is excellent for any occasion, be it a ski trip, a surfing expedition, or anything in-between.
The canopy is 600D Ripstop polyester while the removable rain fly is polyurethane-treated nylon. This combo is great for water resistance.
The rain fly can be completely or partially removed to get a better view of the night sky, while the mesh on panoramic windows keeps the insects out.
Unlike most softshell rooftop tents on the market that have an angled roof, this model has a rounded roof shape.
This creates almost-vertical walls, which provide additional room inside for a more enjoyable sleep.
Of course, the thick foam mattress with a supportive bottom foam layer and a soft upper layer also makes for a comfortable experience.
Pros
- Rounded roof creates almost vertical walls, increasing interior space
- Dual-layer foam mattress is supportive and soft
- 3-minute set-up time is quite fast
- Features panoramic windows for stargazing, plus mesh keeps the bugs out
Cons
- Unlike other models, the travel cover needs to be completely removed when not in use
Best for: campers who value comfort above all else
Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander Tent XL
Size: 4-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 170 lbs | Max Inside Height: 51″ | Packed Size: not listed | Open Size: 122″ x 76″ x 51″ | Set-Up Time: 5-10 mins
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Although all rooftop tents on our list are spacious, this model by Smittybilt wins by a large margin. With dimensions of 122” x 76” x 51”, this tent can fit a king-size mattress inside.
In other words, there’s enough room for 3–4 people to sleep inside. Not only that, but the extra length also makes this tent suitable for tall people.
The durability and weather resistance of this tent are also commendable.
The top is 600D heavy-duty Ripstop polyester and coated with polyurethane. So, it can withstand pretty much any kind of weather.
The tent features a telescopic ladder made of anodized aluminum, which makes it quite sturdy.
It’s also rather wide compared to other models on the list, so climbing is fairly easy. And since it’s mostly covered by the tent, the ladder will remain dry in the rain.
Pros
- Longer than typical rooftop tents and great for taller people
- Made of 600D Ripstop polyester and suitable for year-round camping
- Features a wide, sturdy, telescopic ladder made of anodized aluminum
- Tent is covered with a 2-year warranty on defects in craftsmanship
Cons
- Setting up the awning is a bit tedious and time-consuming
Best for: tall campers and those looking for additional interior space
Roofnest Sparrow EYE 2
Size: 2-person | Season: 3-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 135 lbs | Max Inside Height: 40″ | Packed Size: not listed | Open Size: 51″ x 85″ x 40″ | Set-Up Time: 2 mins
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If you’re looking for a good hardshell rooftop tent, you can’t go wrong with this model by Roofnest. The brand is known for making amazing tents in this category, and the Sparrow EYE is no different.
Made of fiberglass-reinforced ABS, the shell is lightweight but extremely sturdy. It’s also pretty easy to set up, thanks to heavy-duty hydraulic pistons.
Basically, all you have to do is release the buckles and safety straps, and the pistons will do the rest.
The wedge design provides plenty of headroom on the high side of the roof. As for the low side, it’s a bit tighter. But rest assured, you won’t feel cramped.
This tent comes with a 2.8″ foam mattress that’s soft enough to sleep comfortably, but firm enough to prevent sinking. The mattress also comes with a soft cover that can be removed for washing.
Pros
- Shell is lightweight but sturdy and made of fiberglass-reinforced ABS
- Tent can be set up within seconds thanks to hydraulic pistons
- Mattress is comfortable and provides decent support to your joints
- Plenty of storage options, from side pockets to a cargo net
Cons
- One of the most expensive models on the list
Best for: camping in windy weather
Thule Tepui Foothill Tent
Size: 2-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 122 lbs | Max Inside Height: 37″ | Packed Size: 83″ x 24″ x 9.5″ | Open Size: 84″ x 47″ x 37″ | Set-Up Time: 15-20 mins
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If you need your car rack for packing other things aside from your tent, then this tent by Thule is an excellent option.
It folds down so compactly that it leaves enough room for your bike, kayak, or whatever else you need to strap on.
Once pitched, the tent has similar dimensions to other 2-person rooftop tents. Since it has a classic A-frame design, there’s plenty of headspace inside with a maximum inner height of 37″.
However, with the door being on the side, the person sleeping further away from it would have a somewhat harder time getting out of the tent.
During warm nights, you can enjoy the starry sky through the two large roof panels that open lengthwise. You can also open the windows on the walls for a panoramic view of the landscape.
A 600D Ripstop fabric canopy will keep you safe in the rain. In the case of a heavy storm, you can add the rain fly made of the same material to ensure you remain dry even when it’s raining cats and dogs.
Pros
- Tent leaves enough room on the rack for additional gear even when folded
- Dual roof panels and side windows provide optimal airflow and offer an almost unobstructed view of the landscape
- Canopy and rain fly are water-resistant and breathable
- Telescopic internal frame poles allow easy set-up even for a solo camper
Cons
- A bit difficult to convert from travel to camping mode compared to most tents on the list
Best for: trips involving outdoor activities that require you to bring additional gear from home
Roofnest Falcon 2
Size: 2-person | Season: 3-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 160 lbs | Max Inside Height: 60″ | Packed Size: not listed | Open Size: 88″ x 50″ x 60″ | Set-Up Time: 2 mins
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As you probably know, aerodynamics contributes to your fuel consumption. Well, you definitely don’t need to worry about that with this tent, as it’s one of the lowest-profile rooftop tents on the market nowadays.
The tent features a clamshell design that converts from travel to campsite mode within minutes. With the high side of the tent reaching up to 60″, this tent provides plenty of headroom to feel comfortable inside.
The canopy is made of polycotton, which is among the most durable fabrics used for this type of tent. Plus, this material is more breathable than its synthetic counterparts, so you don’t need to worry about condensation.
Storage options are also worth mentioning. The ceiling-mounted gear grid features five large pockets for keeping essentials close at-hand.
There’s also a clear pocket that can hold the tablet or phone for watching movies while lying down.
Pros
- Features USB-powered LED lighting on the inside edges so you can see inside even at night
- Ceiling-mounted gear grid features five large pockets for essentials and one clear pocket for your tablet or phone
- Features a 2″ memory foam mattress with a removable cover
- Blackout canopy coating makes the tent darker, preventing the sunlight from waking you up
Cons
- Rather expensive
Best for: keeping fuel consumption low
Crua Outdoors AER Maxx
Size: 4-5-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 196 lbs | Max Inside Height: 50″ | Packed Size: 81.6″ x 48.4″ x 9.6″ | Open Size: 81.6″ x 98.4″ x 50″ | Set-Up Time: 5 mins
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This tent by Crua Outdoors might not have tons of bells and whistles like some premium models. But it does have all the necessary features for making your camping trip enjoyable, all that for a fair price tag.
For a softshell rooftop tent, this model is fairly easy to set up. Basically, all you have to do is fold out the ladder and that will open up the tent.
If you’re camping solo, having a tent that’s a breeze to set up is quite handy. The canopy is made of 190D Ripstop polycotton, while the rain fly is made of 210D Ripstop polyoxford.
Both fabrics have high PU ratings, which makes the tent suitable for year-round camping. What makes Crua AER stand out from other models on the list is the fact that it can double as a ground tent.
Plus, its size makes it very roomy for couples or smaller groups who want to camp without having to leave their car behind.
Once you find the perfect location to set up camp, you can pitch the tent on the ground. The built-in mattress will keep you comfortable regardless of the terrain.
Pros
- Quite a steal for the price
- Has thick fabric with a high PU rating and suitable for year-round use
- Will fit most standard rooftop bars
- Comes with a 2-year warranty that covers defects in material or craftsmanship
Cons
- Mattress is firmer than some other tents from this list
Best for: couples looking for a roomy shelter
Yakima SkyRise HD Medium
Size: 3-person | Season: 3-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 114.6 lbs | Max Inside Height: 48″ | Packed Size: 58″ x 48″ x 17″ | Open Size: 56″ x 96″ x 48″ | Set-Up Time: 5 mins
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For most people, the biggest put-off of rooftop tents is set-up. Well, that’s definitely not the problem with this model by Yakima, as it’s one of the easiest models to both put together and install.
What’s also great about this tent is that it’s suitable for year-round camping. It features a 600D Ripstop polyester canopy with a 3000mm PU rating, which means it has excellent protection against the elements.
Both the door and windows are extra-large, so they provide gorgeous views of the landscape and excellent ventilation. The tent also features rooftop panels, which can be open completely for stargazing during dry, warm nights.
The mattress on this tent is also worth mentioning. It’s 2.5″ thick and provides support to your joints while remaining quite comfortable. It also features a removable cover, which makes cleaning easy.
Check out our full review of the Yakima Skyrise here.
Pros
- Both rain fly and canopy are practically waterproof
- Large side windows and roof panels provide great views and ventilation
- Fairly quick and easy to set up and install
- A 2.5″ thick foam mattress strikes the right balance of softness and comfort
Cons
- Attaching a cover to the tent can be somewhat difficult
Best for: year-round camping trips
Thule Tepui Explorer Autana
Size: 3-person | Season: 4-season | Tent Type: SUV, rooftop | Weight: 127 lbs | Max Inside Height: 43″ | Packed Size: 48″ x 56″ x 12″ | Open Size: 122″ x 56″ x 52″ | Set-Up Time: 10 mins
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If you find most rooftop tents to be small for all of your gear, then you should consider a model with an annex. The Autana features an ample annex that can be attached and removed depending on your needs for a specific camping trip.
The annex, as well as the actual tent, features large windows with mesh that let light and air in while keeping the bugs away. There are also two panoramic skylights that allow you to enjoy stargazing while lying inside your tent.
With an ample annex available, storing your gear shouldn’t be an issue. Still, the tent also features exterior attachment points that you can use to attach a lamp or whatever else comes to mind.
Four large internal pockets let you keep all the essentials close to hand. The canopy is made of 600D Ripstop polycotton, which is further treated to provide resistance against water and UV rays.
This makes the tent suitable for use in most weather conditions.
Pros
- Plenty of space to comfortably sit and lie inside the tent
- Removable annex provides additional space for gear or hanging out
- Features large pockets and attachment points for keeping things organized
- Large windows and roof panels let plenty of air and light inside
Cons
- Conversion takes quite a bit of time
Best for: campers in need of lots of storage space
Factors To Consider Before Buying a Rooftop Tent
Most rooftop tents seem pretty similar at first glance.
However, there are some key differences between models you should keep in mind when choosing the best one. In this section, we’ll go over each of them individually.
Vehicle Compatibility
First things first, you want to make sure your vehicle is compatible with a specific tent. In most cases, if your car, SUV, or whatever type of vehicle you own is compatible with a roof rack, then it can probably hold a rooftop tent.
However, that’s not always the case, so there are a few things to check out…
The first one would be the weight capacity of your car’s roof. In most cases, you should be able to find that in the vehicle’s manual or a quick online search.
If you have made sure your car can withstand the weight of a rooftop tent plus yourself, then it’s time to make sure the tent is compatible with your vehicle.
Luckily, most manufacturers offer specs on their website, so you can easily check that out by typing in your car’s model and year or production.
Size & Capacity
Given there’s limited space on your rooftop, it’s no wonder most rooftop tents come in just a few capacities, ranging from 2–5 people.
When choosing the right size, how many people plan on sleeping in the tent is the first factor to consider.
But you should keep in mind that the larger the tent, the heavier it gets. This is especially due to the fact that they feature mattresses that cover the entire floor area.
Now, certain models offer an annex, be it included or bought separately.
In any case, an annex creates an enclosed area underneath the tent, which can be used as a storage, kitchen, or even an additional sleeping space.
Material & Durability
Generally, rooftop tents are quite expensive compared to regular ones. For that reason, you want to buy one that will last you a good while. And as you know, materials play a huge role in durability.
Rooftop tents can be divided into two categories: softshell and hardshell.
Between the two, hardshell tents are somewhat more durable thanks to the sturdy material the roof is made of.
But the walls of hardshell tents are made of the same fabrics as the ones on softshell counterparts, so that’s something to keep an eye on.
The three most common fabrics used are polycotton, polyester, and nylon. Polycotton is the strongest by far. It combines the characteristics of polyester and cotton to make a very strong and tear-resistant fabric.
Furthermore, this fabric has better UV resistance compared to polyester and nylon. With that being said, this type of fabric is more expensive than the aforementioned synthetic counterparts.
Plus, that’s not to say that polyester or nylon are necessarily bad. When choosing a rooftop tent, pay attention to the thickness of the fabric, which is expressed in “denier”. The thicker the material, the stronger it usually is.
Ease Of Set-Up & Breakdown
Here’s the thing with rooftop tents – they require initial set-up. Certain models can be mounted without tools, but others do require having certain tools at your disposal.
Once mounted, they’re generally much easier to pitch and fold down compared to standard tents. Of course, there are clear differences between models in that sense. Between softshell and hardshell tents, the latter are much easier to pitch.
In most cases, all you need to do is unclip the shell, unlock the hinges and the tent roof will rise. With softshell tents, you need to remove the cover and insert poles to prop the roof up.
The difficulty of doing that can vary greatly between softshell models, just like it does with regular tents. If you’re camping only occasionally, the extra set-up time of a softshell tent shouldn’t be too big of an issue.
But for those who are often on the road, the convenience of a hardshell tent is worth consideration.
Comfort & Interior Features
In terms of comfort, the most important things to keep in mind are the mattress and overall interior space.
Rooftop tents come with mattresses, but they’re not made equal. Typically, they range in thickness from 1-3 inches and can vary in firmness.
Of course, different people have different mattress preferences that range from cloud-like softness to firm as a stone. Whichever side you might lean to, make sure the mattress provides enough support to your body so that it doesn’t put pressure on your joints.
When it comes to interior dimensions, keep in mind that they’re not always lined up with the tent capacity. That’s because the capacity is determined by the dimensions of the tent floor, not taking into consideration the headspace.
As you can see, rooftop tents come in different shapes, including the classic A-frame and dome style. Both have the highest point in the middle of the tent, with sides sloping down.
Some hardshell tents may also have a clamshell design. They optimize headroom while leaving little room for your feet to wiggle around.
Weather Resistance & Seasonality
Certain rooftop tents are designed to withstand any kind of weather, while others will only serve you in nice weather.
In most cases, hardshell tents have better weather resistance, due to the sturdy top material.
The shell is waterproof so it keeps the rain and snow out, but it also mutes down the sound of the wind.
When it comes to softshell rooftop tents, weather resistance differs from model to model.
How well it can withstand rain and snow depends on the type of fabric used as well as the PU rating. As for the wind, expect the fabric to flap in the wind, which can be somewhat annoying.
Safety Features & Considerations
While many people worry that a rooftop tent will get blown away in the wind or get detached during the ride, that can’t happen if it’s properly secured.
However, there are certain safety features to keep in mind, and they have nothing to do with the irrational fear of the tent falling down.
Mainly, the ladder.
Rooftop tents feature ladders made of metal, mostly aluminum. Untreated aluminum is very smooth, which also means it’s slippery, especially when wet.
Now, a little bit of rain shouldn’t make getting in and out of the tent so difficult. Non-slip covering on both steps and rails will make your life much easier in bad weather.
Having adjustable rails is great, as it allows you to park your vehicle on uneven terrain and still have the ladder firm in place for use.
Price & Value
Finally, is the rooftop tent you want to buy worth your money? This type of tent usually costs much more compared to a traditional tent. But of course, there’s also a range of prices between models.
However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that those prices are a good reflection of the tent’s quality. Generally, you can expect hardshell tents to be less expensive than softshell tents.
But there’s a crucial trade-off with hardshell tents, which is ease of installation and conversion. Another thing to keep in mind when figuring out the value of a rooftop tent is the aerodynamics.
The tent attached to your car racks will affect the car’s wind resistance, negatively. As a result, it will also increase your fuel consumption.
While low-profile tents are generally more costly, they will have a lower impact on your fuel economy.
FAQs
Is A Rooftop Tent Worth It?
If convenience, safety, and fast set-up time are your main priorities for camping, then rooftop tents are absolutely worth it.
They’re also generally very durable, so you’re set for years to come.
What Cars Can Hold A Rooftop Tent?
Generally, most cars that have racks can hold a rooftop tent.
However, you should also make sure that the roof of your car can withstand that much weight, which can easily be checked in the car’s manual.
Can You Put A Rooftop Tent On A Subaru, 4Runner, Or Tacoma?
These vehicles, and generally SUVs are suitable for rooftop tents as they can withstand the weight and size.
How Can I Make My Rooftop Tent More Comfortable?
Rooftop tents typically feature a foam mattress. But you can make them even more comfortable by adding pillows and covers along with your sleeping bag.
How Much Does A Rooftop Tent Cost?
Generally, rooftop tents cost between $1,000 and $4,000, but you can find models with price tags below and above that.
The price of a rooftop tent mainly depends on the materials and additional features it includes.
Can You Camp Anywhere With A Rooftop Tent?
With a rooftop tent, you can camp anywhere where you can park your vehicle.
Be it a national park, abandoned lot, or a parking lot, you can just pull off and expand your tent.
Why Shouldn’t I Get A Rooftop Tent?
If you’re not willing to spend that amount of money on a tent, then a rooftop tent is not for you.
You should also keep in mind that they can be loud, due to the wind blowing into the fabric, as that’s something that might trouble light sleepers.
To Sum Things Up
There are many great rooftop tents on the market nowadays. Among them, the Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland stands out for its value.
It’s easy to install, has excellent weather resistance, and offers plenty of space. And all that comes for a rather affordable price!
Happy rooftop camping!
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