Thule Approach M Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
Thule
Thule Approach M
Best for: Stargazing and luxury year-round glamping.
Smittybilt
Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent
Best for: Affordable all-season vehicle roof top camping.
Our Take
Both are suv tents, so this is a direct apples-to-apples comparison.
The Thule Approach M sleeps 3 versus 2 for the Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent — if headcount matters, that's the deciding factor before you even look at scores.
The Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent is noticeably taller inside (4'3" peak height versus 3'4"), giving you more headroom to move around.
The Thule Approach M and the Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent are remarkably well-matched, both scoring 8.1 overall.
The biggest gap is build quality, where the Thule Approach M holds a clear advantage.
The Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent also has a price edge — $1373 less at $1325 versus $2699.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
Ask our AI for a personalised recommendation based on your camping style, group size, and budget.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
Thule Approach M
- Massive panoramic skylights
- 3-minute quick deployment
- Lockable mounting brackets
- Square ladder rungs
- Separate travel cover
Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent
- Integrated LED light strip
- Wide sturdy telescopic ladder
- Included external boot bag
- Velcro cover system
- Manual ladder drilling
Full Specs
| Spec | Thule Approach M | Smittybilt Overlander 3 Person Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | SUV, Rooftop | SUV, Rooftop |
| Capacity | 3 people | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 4 Season |
| Est. Price | $2,700 | $1,326 |
| Weight | 147 Lbs. | 116.5 Lbs |
| Floor Area | 33.6 ft² | 36.9 ft² |
| Peak Height | 40 | 51 |
| Doors | 1 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 94.5 X 51.2 Inches | 95 X 56 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Anodized Aluminum Tent Frame Poles With Stainless Steel Hinges |
| Floor Fabric | — | 600D Heavy Duty Rip Stop Polyester, Waterproof And Polyurethane Impregnated |
| Rainfly Fabric | — | 600D Heavy Duty Rip Stop Polyester, Waterproof And Polyurethane Impregnated |
| Packed Size | 56.3 X 48.8 X 11 Inches | — |
| Setup Time | 3 Mins | 5 Mins |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | 1 Year |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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