7 things to consider BEFORE you buy a Rooftop tent!
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There are many different Roof Top Tent options out there these days, so how do you know which is the right one for you?
After personally using rooftop tents ourselves for over 10 years we’ve learned a few things which might help you in your search for the perfect setup.
Here are the topics we’ll cover:
The short answer here is comfort and convenience.
We’ll get deeper into the specific pros and cons of different styles of rooftop tents later but one thing they all have in common is that, once mounted to your vehicle, setup and pack up is much faster than a traditional camp site and is usually more comfortable, drier, easier to keep clean and often warmer than sleeping on the ground.
They also generally remain fitted to your car over the camping season, so come Friday night, all you need to pack is some cold beer and you’re ready to tackle the weekend!
2. What are the different types of Rooftop Tents available?
There are two main categories of rooftop tent, and then some sub-categories within these two main groups.
Let’s look at Softshell tents first.
This style of tent is the most common and it’s the style you’ve likely seen whist driving around. They appear as a square box fitted to roof racks, measuring approximately 1.2mx1.5mx0.35m wrapped in a canvas cover which is usually grey or black.
These tents fold open to the side or rear of the car, opening the tent as you unfold. (A little bit like those awesome pop-up birthday cards you had as a kid)
Model sizes can vary but are usually intended to sleep 2-4 people.
They will have an adjustable ladder attached which is used to assist with opening and for access once the tent is setup.
They will also have a foam mattress stored inside which unfolds automatically with the tent.
Softshell tents usually take around 5 minutes to setup and pack up in their most basic configuration.
These RRTs are generally cheaper in price and lighter in weight than their Hardshell equivalents. They can be used on a wide variety of vehicles from small cars to large 4x4s, SUVs and vans.
Now let’s consider Hardshell tents.
This type of tent is rapidly growing in popularity. As the name suggests the casing with which the tent is contained is a solid shell. This shell is generally made from either aluminum or plastic and can present itself in a variety of different styles.
Again, let’s consider two of these styles:
Clamshell or Wedge style hardshell tents, as the name suggests, are hinged at one end and have gas struts to assist with their opening. These are by far the fastest and simplest RTTs to use. Operation usually consists of releasing 2 latches and watching the gas struts open the tent into its fully setup position. This type of tent can easily be setup by one person, regardless of size or strength, in a matter of seconds. These tents usually measure around 2.1mx1.5mx0.2m so are generally better suited to larger cars, 4x4s, SUVs and vans. If you have one of these vehicles and are looking for the fastest and easiest to operate RTT available this style might be a good option for you. This style is also the thinnest when packed up meaning they look less ‘boxy’ and are much more aerodynamic.
Fold-open is the second type of Hardshell RTT. This style is very similar in concept and size to the traditional Softshell style tent but with the addition of a hard plastic or aluminium shell. Their operation is usually assisted with gas struts to open the shell itself and then the internals of the tent can be folded out to the side or rear of the vehicle. This style of Hardshell tent packs up to a smaller footprint than the clamshell or wedge style so can often be suitable for smaller vehicles. They take a little longer to setup than a Clamshell, but are faster than a Softshell and have the added durability of the protective outer.
Hardshell tents in general offer ease and speed of setup and great long-term durability. An additional bonus of this type of tent is that some models allow accessories to be fitted directly to the tent, expanding your campsite or allowing you to carry more gear on your roof. Awnings, shower tents and roof racks are some of the options available.
Not all the tents you see online are created equal. You'll see a variety of similar looking products spread over a large price range and it can be hard to tell which ones are rubbish, which ones are over-priced and which ones are a practical combination of value and quality.
So here’s a few things we’ve learnt after years of using all types of Rooftop Tents.
In our opinion, comfort is the most important aspect of your purchase.
If you don't sleep well then your tent isn't serving it's number one purpose. If this happens you'll hate sleeping in it and so will you wife/partner/camp buddy. Make sure which ever tent you choose has a good quality high density foam mattress which is at least 60mm thick. Not only does this provide more comfort, especially for side sleepers, but it also creates a greater thermal barrier from the cold outside. You are more likely to get a good night’s sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day's activities.
Useable functionality is the second most important consideration.
Does it work in a simple, reliable and well thought out fashion day after day and trip after trip? If you're like us you've probably spent more time sleeping at campsites than in hotel rooms. That's our preference every time, but let's be honest, camping is not always seamless. There's the pre-trip packing to sort out, followed by what is usually a long drive and then the inevitable en-route delay or un-forecast rain shower on arrival. These things all add to the flavour of the adventure, but there are some things we can do to make our lives easier, such as choosing well thought out reliable equipment which has been thoroughly tested by real people in your local environment. With a quality Roof Top Tent strapped on your roof your camp setup will be quick, easy, stress free and comfortable.
Well, we’re a little biased, but you should obviously buy a SMRT Tent…. HA. But seriously, this is an important consideration.
We understand buying a RTT is a big purchase. It can be tempting to do a quick scroll through the various options online and simply choose the cheapest product… after all, they all look the same, right..? Well yes, and no. There can be a large difference in the quality of the materials used, from the bolts to the brackets to the quality of the fabric and everything in between. We prefer to use stainless steel and aluminium for all of our fixings and brackets, we like 25mm covered poles for durability, telescopic ladders which suite all types of vehicles straight out of the box, quality shoe bags to keep the dirt out of your tent, lots of pockets, quality fabrics and zippers, mesh windows to keep the bugs out and a quality mattress is a MUST! The last thing you want is a cheap product letting you down when you’re off grid.
At SMRT Tent we provide products which we believe are right in the sweet spot, balancing great features and quality with reasonable pricing.
No matter which brand or model you choose just make sure you do a little research. It’s worth taking the time to investigate the detail and quality of each tent to ensure you’re getting the best product for your money. We’d also suggest reaching out to the company you’re considering buying from and see what response you get. Ask questions about your specific needs. You want to be sure you are comfortable with the support you’ll be getting both before you buy and in the years ahead.
This is a critical question! Ideal fitment and specific roof carrying capacities can vary dramatically across vehicle types, but before we get into choosing our favorite tent there are a couple of terms we should get comfortable with.
As a general rule, larger cars, 4x4s, SUVs and vans have a larger roof carrying capacity than smaller passenger cars.
Both the dynamic and static limitations of your vehicle and your rack will be listed in their respective owner’s manuals. (If the static load is not listed, a general rule of thumb is 3 x the dynamic capacity)
It is critical for both safety and insurance purposes that you comply with these limitations!
Once you’ve established how much weight you can carry, you can start choosing a tent!
If you have a ute with a tub rack, a van or a large SUV then you have all options available to you and can choose based on your preferences and budget.
Larger hardshell tents, with all the accessories, are a popular option on these vehicles.
If you have a smaller vehicle a light weight hardshell tent could be a good option.
The most popular option however, due to it’s flexibility and lower cost, especially for smaller vehicles or twin cab utes is the Softshell fold-open style tent.
This can be a more complicated question than it initially seems on the surface. Firstly you’ll need to ensure which ever rack you choose can carry the weight required. Refer to the topic above on dynamic and static weight capacity.
Then there are some other considerations depending on which tent you want to use. Some tent models require support across their entire width, therefor requiring roof rack cross bars of a minimum width.
We would strongly recommend contacting you Rooftop Tent supplier prior to ordering your new racks to discuss your best options.
Once you’ve confirmed the correct type of rack for your chosen tent, you will need to find a rack with the correct fitment for your vehicle. There are plenty of online and shopfront stores selling racks across NZ so we recommend googling ‘roofracks’ in your local area to find a suitable supplier. The rack supplier will be able to guide you on the correct model to fit your vehicle.
It is also worth noting that supply of roof racks in New Zealand can be a little patchy. If you are considering getting your mobile campsite setup for summer we recommend getting your racks sorted ASAP. You don’t want to have your holiday plans ruined by a lack of availability!
There are many add-on options available to take your RTT experience to the next level. Some tent models, particularly fold out style tents, have optional annex and room extension attachments which connect to the tent itself. If you have a larger family, if the weather is poor or if you are planning to stay in one location for a few days these extensions can be a great addition. They will add an additional 5-10 mins to you setup time but can be well worth the effort!
Another option is a universal quick-setup annex, which can be mounted and operated independently of the tent for some quick sun or rain protection. This type of annex only takes a couple of minutes to setup.
There are also shower/toilet specific tent options which take 15 seconds to setup and give full height privacy at the campsite.
As you can see there are a lot of things to consider when planning to setup your mobile campsite, but we hope this has made things a little clearer.
As always, we are happy to chat so if you have any questions or need some advice feel free to reach out, we’re always here to help! dan@yellowmountain.co.nz
In the world of outdoor adventure and camping, your choice of shelter can significantly impact your experience. Traditional ground tents have long been the standard, but there's a rising star on the horizon - the rooftop tent.
These innovative shelters have gained a lot of popularity, and for good reason. In this article, we'll delve deep into the world of rooftop tents, exploring the reasons why you should consider one for your next camping trip.
USEFUL:
Why Consider a Rooftop Tent?
Rooftop tent camping redefines convenience: When it comes to camping, comfort and ease of setup matter. Rooftop tents offer an incredible level of convenience, making your camping experience more enjoyable.
Imagine arriving at your campsite after a long day on the road, and with a few simple, quick steps, your sleeping quarters are ready! And even better, you're new home is high above the ground, away from bugs, animals and rocks.
No more struggling with tent stakes and guylines in the dark. With a rooftop tent, you can enjoy a quick and hassle-free setup that allows you to focus on what truly matters – your outdoor adventure.
Types of Rooftop Tents: Rooftop tents come in two primary types, hard-shell and soft-shell. Each has its unique advantages, and choosing the right one can make or break your adventure.
The choice between hard-shell and soft-shell rooftop tents often comes down to your specific needs and budget. Hard-shells provide luxury and convenience, while soft-shells offer flexibility and affordability. Understanding these differences will be crucial in selecting the right rooftop tent for your outdoor adventures.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Rooftop Tent
Before embarking on the journey of purchasing a rooftop tent, it's essential to conduct thorough research. Several key factors will significantly impact your decision:
So, whether you're new to the world of rooftop tents or you're already a seasoned rooftop tent owner looking for insights, this article will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your next camping style. As we continue, we'll also address common questions to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of rooftop tents.
Part 2: Choosing the Right Rooftop Tent
The company is the world’s best roof top tent trailer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Now that we've laid the groundwork, it's time to delve deeper into the world of rooftop tents and explore the features and factors that will help you make the right choice for your camping style. In this section, we'll provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision and hit the road for your next outdoor adventure.
Weight of Your Roof Top Tent Matters
One of the most crucial considerations when selecting a rooftop tent is its weight. Here's why it matters:
The weight of your rooftop tent affects not only your vehicle's performance but also its fuel economy. Overloading your vehicle can lead to reduced gas mileage and increased wear and tear. Therefore, it's essential to know your vehicle's capabilities and choose a rooftop tent that falls within the recommended weight limits.
RTT Capacity and Compatibility
Choosing the right rooftop tent also involves understanding your vehicle's roof space and the tent's capacity:
Choosing the right tent for your vehicle's roof space is vital for safety, stability, and ensuring a comfortable camping experience. We'll help you understand the nuances of compatibility, so you make the right choice.
Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Camping
The next step in your rooftop tent journey is deciding between hard-shell and soft-shell options. Both have their advantages and drawbacks:
The choice between hard-shell and soft-shell rooftop tents ultimately depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. We'll provide you with a detailed comparison, so you can make an informed decision.
Mounting a Rooftop Tent on Your Car Roof Rack
Before you begin your camping adventure, you need to know how to properly mount a rooftop tent. Here's a glimpse of what to expect:
Choosing a rooftop tent that's compatible with your vehicle and knowing how to attach it safely is crucial for a successful camping trip. Our detailed instructions and recommendations will make the process less daunting, even for first-time rooftop tent owners.
As we conclude Part 2, you now have a better understanding of the factors to consider when choosing a rooftop tent. We'll continue our exploration in Part 3, where we'll dive deeper into the features of rooftop tents and their setup, ensuring that you're well-prepared for your next outdoor adventure.
Part 3: Exploring Rooftop Tent Features
With a solid foundation in place, it's time to venture deeper into the world of rooftop tents. In this section, we'll explore the features that make these tents stand out and ensure your camping experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Inside the Rooftop Tent
One of the most exciting aspects of rooftop tents is their interior setup:
Tent Fabric and Durability
The materials used in rooftop tent construction play a pivotal role in their durability and longevity:
Setup and Takedown of Rooftop Tents
Setting up and taking down a rooftop tent can be a concern for many campers:
Additional Features to Consider
Rooftop tents offer a range of additional features that can enhance your camping experience:
As we conclude Part 3, you have a better understanding of the interior of rooftop tents, the durability of their materials, and the ease of setup and takedown. We've also explored some of the extra features that can make your camping experience even more enjoyable. In Part 4, we'll guide you through the process of shopping for a rooftop tent and the installation steps to ensure you're fully prepared for your next outdoor adventure.
Part 4: Rooftop Tent Shopping and Installation
As you progress on your rooftop tent journey, you're now well-versed in the various aspects of these ingenious shelters. In Part 4, we'll focus on the practical aspects of shopping for a rooftop tent and the installation process. These steps will ensure you're fully equipped and prepared for your next outdoor adventure.
Shopping for a Rooftop Tent
Purchasing a rooftop tent is a significant investment, and it's important to make an informed choice. Here's what you need to know:
Tent Needs and Installation
Once you've made your purchase, the next step is to ensure your rooftop tent is safely installed and ready for your adventures:
Weight of a Rooftop Tent and Fuel Economy
While we've discussed the weight of the tent earlier, we'll delve further into how it can affect your vehicle's performance and fuel economy:
FAQs
1. What's the price range for rooftop tents?
The price range for rooftop tents (rtt) can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of tent (hard-shell or soft-shell), brand, size, and included features. Generally, rooftop tents can range from around $1,000 to $4,000 or more. High-end models with advanced features and accessories may be on the higher end of the price spectrum, while more basic models tend to be more affordable.
2. Do rooftop tents fit on all types of vehicles?
Rooftop tents come in many shapes and are designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, and some smaller cars. However, compatibility depends on the type of roof rack or crossbars your vehicle has. Some vehicles may require a specialized roof rack or additional mounting systems to support the weight and load capacity of the tent. The dynamic load restrictions of your car is essential to know before buying; for this reason, verify compatibility with your specific vehicle and check the owner’s manual for weight and mounting recommendations.
3. Can rooftop tents be used in extreme weather?
Many rooftop tents are designed to withstand various weather conditions while sitting on top of your car, including rain and wind. However, their performance in extreme weather, such as heavy snow or severe storms, can vary. It's crucial to check the specifications and features of the tent to ensure it's suitable for your intended use. Some rooftop tents come with added weatherproofing features and are better equipped for bad weather.
4. How do rooftop tents impact the resale value of a vehicle?
The impact on the resale value of your vehicle largely depends on several factors, including the condition of your vehicle, the type of rooftop tent, and its installation. When properly installed and maintained, a rooftop tent is unlikely to significantly impact your vehicle's resale value. In fact, it may even increase the appeal to potential buyers who are outdoor enthusiasts.
5. What's the best way to maintain and clean a rooftop tent?
To maintain and clean the exterior and inside the tent, follow these steps:
Conclusion
In this section's conclusion, we'll summarize the key points discussed in the article. We'll emphasize the importance of making an informed choice when it comes to rooftop tents and how these ingenious shelters can revolutionize your camping experience.
But before you head out on your next outdoor adventure, we'll address some more frequently asked questions to ensure you have all the information you need for your rooftop tent journey.
Are you interested in learning more about roof top tents for cars? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!