What’s It Like to Sleep in a Rooftop Tent?
Whether you’re traveling with a group or on your own, camping with a rooftop tent can be very convenient. Unlike ground tents, a rooftop tent stays attached to your vehicle while you’re driving, eliminating the hassle of setting up and packing away a tent each time you move.
Rooftop tents are usually pop-up tents, making them easy to set up and collapse. You can leave your bedding in place, saving time and effort. Additionally, they tend to be warmer than ground tents.
Rooftop tents are also safer. Being elevated, they are less likely to attract insects and keep you away from dirt, debris, and water seeping in from the ground. For added comfort, you can use a quilted insulating insert to minimize heat loss.
For those concerned about safety, some rooftop tents come with built-in lighting and USB outlets. They may also include built-in gear hammocks. Some models are made with thicker materials for better insulation.
While most rooftop tents are designed for two people, larger models are available. These offer more room and can be mounted on vehicles suitable for three or four people.
How Many People Can a Rooftop Tent Hold?
Depending on the size, a rooftop tent can hold two, three, or four people. A typical two-person tent measures around 84″ x 48″, while a three-person tent measures about 86″ x 72″.
Hard shell rooftop tents are usually made from thicker materials than soft shell models. The top shell is made of thick aluminum, and the walls are typically constructed from heavier fabric designed to prevent mold and condensation.
Although hard shell rooftop tents tend to be heavier, they are more durable. They can be mounted on smaller vehicles and are made from materials that resist degradation from ultraviolet light. The walls are also designed to be waterproof.
When it comes to size, the largest rooftop tents can sleep four or five people and may accommodate an annex. This addition can be used as a toilet or camp shower and may include an LED lighting system.
The average hard shell rooftop tent measures about 48″ x 84″ and weighs between 100-200 pounds. These tents are typically faster to set up than soft shell models, often featuring gas struts or electric crank systems.
