Rooftop tents have revolutionised the way we camp. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape to the Lake District or embarking on a months-long overlanding adventure across Europe, these elevated shelters offer a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and adventure.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about rooftop tents, from choosing the right type for your vehicle to mastering the setup process. We’ll explore the pros and cons, dive into the different styles available, and help you make an informed decision for your camping adventures.
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What Are Rooftop Tents?
Rooftop tents are portable shelters that mount directly onto your vehicle’s roof rack system. Unlike traditional ground tents, they elevate you above the terrain, providing a flat, comfortable sleeping surface wherever you park.
These ingenious camping solutions originated in the overlanding communities of Africa and Australia, where campers needed protection from wildlife and uneven ground. Today, they’ve become increasingly popular among UK campers who appreciate the convenience of having their accommodation permanently attached to their vehicle.
The basic concept is simple: the tent folds down into a compact unit for travel, then expands to create a spacious sleeping area when you reach your destination. Most models include a built-in mattress, eliminating the need for separate sleeping pads.
The Rise of Rooftop Camping in the UK
The UK’s camping scene has embraced rooftop tents with enthusiasm. With our unpredictable weather and often soggy ground conditions, the appeal of sleeping elevated and dry is obvious.
Wild camping laws in Scotland make rooftop tents particularly attractive, as they allow for quick setup in remote locations without the need to find perfectly level ground. Even in England and Wales, where wild camping is more restricted, rooftop tents excel at campsites and designated areas.
Types of Rooftop Tents
Hard Shell Rooftop Tents
Hard shell tents feature a rigid outer casing, typically made from fibreglass or ABS plastic. They’re the premium option in the rooftop tent world, offering several distinct advantages.
Pros:
- Lightning-fast setup (usually under 60 seconds)
- Excellent weather protection
- Sleek, aerodynamic profile when closed
- Better fuel economy compared to soft shell alternatives
- Quieter during travel
Cons:
- Higher price point (typically £2,000-£5,000+)
- Limited internal space when open
- Heavier than soft shell options
- More complex mechanisms that can potentially fail
Best for: Frequent campers who prioritise quick setup and weather protection, or those doing serious overlanding where durability matters most.
Soft Shell Rooftop Tents
Soft shell tents use canvas or ripstop fabric construction, similar to traditional camping tents. They’re the original rooftop tent design and remain popular for good reason.
Pros:
- More affordable (typically £800-£2,500)
- Spacious interior with room to sit up
- Often include annex rooms for extra space
- Easier to repair if damaged
- Lighter weight options available
Cons:
- Longer setup time (5-15 minutes)
- Less weatherproof in extreme conditions
- Higher wind resistance when traveling
- Can be noisier on the motorway
- Fabric may degrade over time
Best for: Budget-conscious campers, families needing extra space, or those who don’t mind a slightly longer setup process.
Hybrid Rooftop Tents
Hybrid designs attempt to combine the best of both worlds, featuring a hard shell base with soft shell extensions or pop-up sections.
Pros:
- Balanced approach to space and setup time
- Often more affordable than full hard shells
- Good weather protection with extra room
- Moderate setup time
Cons:
- Can be complex mechanisms
- May not excel in any single area
- Potentially more points of failure
- Limited model selection
Best for: Campers who want a compromise between the two main types.
Rooftop Tents vs Ground Tents: The Real Comparison
Advantages of Rooftop Tents
Convenience Factor Your tent is always with you, pre-assembled and ready to deploy. No more forgetting tent poles or arriving at camp to discover a punctured groundsheet.
Ground Independence Rocky terrain, muddy fields, or uneven surfaces become irrelevant. You’ll sleep comfortably regardless of what’s beneath your vehicle.
Weather Protection Being elevated keeps you away from ground moisture, flooding, and most wildlife. The integrated mattress also provides excellent insulation from cold ground.
Security Rooftop tents offer psychological security, especially when wild camping. You’re harder to access and have a better view of your surroundings.
Setup Speed Most rooftop tents deploy faster than traditional tents, especially hard shell models.
Disadvantages of Rooftop Tents
Cost The initial investment is substantial. A quality rooftop tent costs more than several traditional tents combined.
Fuel Economy Permanent roof mounting increases wind resistance, reducing fuel efficiency by 10-20% or more.
Height Restrictions Car parks, drive-throughs, and some campsites become inaccessible. You’ll need to plan routes more carefully.
Vehicle Dependence Your tent is only as mobile as your vehicle. If your car needs repairs, you lose your accommodation.
Capacity Limits Most rooftop tents sleep 2-3 people maximum, making them unsuitable for larger groups.
Access Issues Getting in and out requires a ladder, which can be challenging for older campers or those with mobility issues.
What Vehicles Work With Rooftop Tents?
Vehicle Requirements
Weight Capacity Your vehicle’s roof must support both the tent’s weight and occupants. Most rooftop tents weigh 40-80kg, but with occupants, you’re looking at 200-300kg total.
Check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load rating (for driving) and static roof load rating (for stationary use). The dynamic rating is typically 75-100kg for most vehicles, while static ratings are usually much higher.
Roof Rack System You’ll need a proper roof rack system, not just crossbars. The rack should be rated for the tent’s weight and have mounting points spaced appropriately for your chosen tent.
Suitable Vehicle Types
4x4s and SUVs Land Rover Defenders, Toyota Land Cruisers, and similar vehicles are ideal. They typically have high roof load ratings and robust roof rack systems.
Pickup Trucks Excellent choice due to high load capacity and easy rack mounting. The higher driving position also makes ladder access easier.
Estate Cars Many estates work well with rooftop tents. Models like the Subaru Outback or Volvo V70 offer good load capacity and reasonable height.
Larger Hatchbacks Some larger hatchbacks can accommodate rooftop tents, though you’ll need to check load ratings carefully.
Vehicles to Avoid
Small Hatchbacks Most small cars lack sufficient roof load capacity and may look disproportionate with a rooftop tent.
Convertibles Obvious structural limitations make these unsuitable.
Vehicles with Panoramic Roofs Large glass roofs often have very low load ratings.
Key Features to Look For
Size and Capacity
Sleeping Dimensions Consider both length and width. A 2400mm x 1400mm tent sleeps two adults comfortably, while families might need 2400mm x 1600mm or larger.
Headroom Soft shell tents typically offer 1200-1400mm of headroom, while hard shells might provide 900-1100mm. Consider how you’ll use the space.
Pack Size Measure your roof rack spacing and vehicle height. Some tents are surprisingly large when closed.
Construction Quality
Fabric Materials Look for ripstop canvas with waterproof coatings. Polycotton blends offer good breathability, while pure synthetic materials dry faster.
Frame Construction Aluminium frames balance weight and strength well. Steel frames are stronger but heavier.
Zippers and Hardware YKK zippers are the gold standard. All hardware should be corrosion-resistant, especially for UK conditions.
Weather Protection
Waterproofing Look for fabrics with hydrostatic head ratings of 3000mm or higher. Taped seams are essential.
Ventilation Condensation can be a serious issue. Look for multiple ventilation points and breathable fabrics.
Wind Resistance Check maximum wind speed ratings. Most tents handle 50-60 mph winds when properly secured.
Comfort Features
Mattress Quality Thickness matters – look for at least 50mm foam. High-density foam or hybrid foam/air designs offer the best comfort.
Windows and Views Multiple windows improve ventilation and views. Some tents offer panoramic windows for stargazing.
Annex Rooms These provide extra space for gear storage or additional sleeping area.
Setup and Storage Tips
Initial Installation
Professional Fitting Consider professional installation for your first setup. Proper mounting is crucial for safety and tent longevity.
Weight Distribution Ensure even weight distribution across your roof rack. The tent should be centered and properly secured.
Clearance Checks Test your vehicle’s new height at various locations before heading out. Mark your new height clearly in the cab.
Daily Setup Process
Site Selection Choose level ground when possible. While rooftop tents handle uneven terrain well, a level vehicle makes setup easier and sleeping more comfortable.
Setup Sequence
- Engage parking brake and turn off engine
- Ensure vehicle is as level as possible
- Unlock tent latches
- Unfold tent (method varies by type)
- Secure tent to vehicle
- Install ladder
- Add bedding and personal items
Packing and Storage
Drying Before Storage Always ensure your tent is completely dry before closing. Moisture trapped inside leads to mold and fabric degradation.
Gear Organization Develop a system for bedding and personal items. Many campers use compression sacks or dedicated storage bags.
Maintenance Schedule Regular cleaning and reproofing extends tent life. Check hardware and zippers periodically.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Maintenance
Fabric Care Clean canvas regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage waterproof coatings.
Hardware Inspection Check all mounting hardware before each trip. Vibration can loosen bolts over time.
Zipper Maintenance Keep zippers clean and lubricated. A stuck zipper in bad weather can ruin your trip.
Seasonal Care
Winter Storage If storing for winter, ensure complete dryness and consider using moisture absorbers.
Reproofing Reapply waterproof treatments annually or as needed. Canvas typically needs more frequent treatment than synthetic materials.
UV Protection Prolonged sun exposure degrades fabric. Use covers when parked for extended periods.
Cost Considerations
Initial Investment
Tent Prices
- Budget soft shell: £800-£1,500
- Mid-range soft shell: £1,500-£2,500
- Premium soft shell: £2,500-£3,500
- Hard shell: £2,000-£6,000+
Additional Costs
- Roof rack system: £200-£800
- Professional installation: £100-£300
- Accessories (annex, ladder, etc.): £200-£500
Long-term Costs
Fuel Economy Impact Expect 10-20% reduction in fuel efficiency. On a 20,000-mile annual driving, this could cost £200-£400 extra per year.
Maintenance Budget £50-£100 annually for cleaning supplies, reproofing, and minor repairs.
Insurance Check if your tent is covered under vehicle or home insurance. Some insurers offer specific camping equipment coverage.
Safety Considerations
Weight and Balance
Centre of Gravity Rooftop tents raise your vehicle’s centre of gravity, affecting handling. Drive more cautiously, especially in crosswinds.
Braking Distance Increased weight and wind resistance extend braking distances. Allow more following distance.
Cornering Take corners more slowly. The tent’s weight and wind resistance affect vehicle dynamics.
Structural Safety
Load Ratings Never exceed your vehicle’s load ratings. Remember to account for tent weight, occupants, and gear.
Mounting Points Regularly inspect all mounting hardware. Vibration and weather can cause loosening.
Ladder Safety Always use the provided ladder. Check its condition before each use.
Accessories and Add-ons
Essential Accessories
Annex Rooms These attach to your tent’s side, providing extra space for gear storage or additional sleeping area.
Awnings Retractable awnings create instant shade and weather protection for your campsite.
Lighting LED light strips designed for tent mounting provide excellent interior lighting.
Comfort Upgrades
Mattress Toppers Memory foam or air mattress toppers can significantly improve sleeping comfort.
Insulation Reflective insulation helps regulate temperature and reduces condensation.
Ventilation Fans 12V fans improve airflow and reduce condensation buildup.
Final Thoughts: Is a Rooftop Tent Right for You?
Consider a rooftop tent if you:
Rooftop tents represent a significant investment in your camping future. They’re not for everyone, but for the right camper, they offer unparalleled convenience and comfort.
- Camp frequently and value quick setup
- Often encounter wet or uneven ground
- Prefer the security of elevated sleeping
- Have a suitable vehicle with adequate load capacity
- Don’t mind the impact on fuel economy
Avoid rooftop tents if you:
- Camp infrequently or prefer ultra-light backpacking
- Need accommodation for more than 2-3 people
- Drive a vehicle with low roof load capacity
- Regularly use height-restricted facilities
- Are particularly sensitive to fuel costs
The rooftop tent market continues to evolve, with manufacturers constantly improving designs and features. Whether you choose a budget-friendly soft shell or a premium hard shell, you’re investing in a camping experience that’s hard to match with traditional ground tents.
Remember, the best rooftop tent is the one that matches your specific needs, vehicle, and camping style. Take time to research, visit dealers if possible, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your elevated camping adventures await.
Roof Top Tents FAQs
How much weight can my roof support?
Check your vehicle’s handbook for both dynamic (driving) and static (stationary) roof load ratings. Dynamic ratings are typically 75-100kg, while static ratings are much higher. Most rooftop tents weigh 40-80kg, but you must account for occupants and gear.
Do rooftop tents affect fuel consumption?
Yes, significantly. Expect a 10-20% reduction in fuel efficiency due to increased wind resistance and weight. The impact is greater at motorway speeds and in headwinds.
Can I use a rooftop tent in winter?
Absolutely. Many rooftop tents perform well in winter conditions. The elevation keeps you away from ground frost and snow. However, ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation and consider additional insulation.
How long do rooftop tents last?
With proper care, a quality rooftop tent should last 10-15 years. Fabric may need reproofing every 2-3 years, and hardware should be inspected regularly.
Are rooftop tents waterproof?
Most quality rooftop tents are waterproof when new, but this depends on proper maintenance. Canvas tents typically need more frequent reproofing than synthetic materials.
Can I leave my rooftop tent mounted permanently?
While possible, permanent mounting affects fuel economy and vehicle clearance. Many owners remove tents during winter or when not camping regularly.
How do I choose between hard shell and soft shell?
Consider your priorities: hard shells offer quick setup and better weather protection but cost more. Soft shells provide more space and cost less but take longer to set up.
Can two people comfortably sleep in a rooftop tent?
Most rooftop tents accommodate two adults comfortably. Look for dimensions of at least 2400mm x 1400mm for a comfortable sleeping area.
Learn More
Like this review? Well, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- Wild Camping: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Best Tents For Wild Camping
- Best Hammocks + Best Bivvy Bags
- Best Portable Camping Fire Pits
- Best Places for Wild Camping Wales, Scotland and The Lake District
All images courtesy of Respective Brands, All Rights Reserved.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
