A Beginner's Guide to Rooftop Tents

So you've been camping before, slept under the stars, cooked over an open fire, and experienced nature in all its rugged glory. But maybe sleeping on the hard ground has lost its appeal. Or perhaps you're looking to up your camping game to the next level. Have you considered ditching the tent poles and opting for a rooftop tent instead? Rooftop tents are elevated tents that attach to a vehicle's roof rack. They elevate your camping experience, literally, by getting you up off the ground so you can sleep comfortably and wake up to panoramic views. If you're ready to take your camping adventures to new heights, here's your beginner's guide to rooftop tents: what they are, how they work, tips for getting started, and why you'll wonder how you ever camped without one. 

What Is a Rooftop Tent and Why Do You Need One?

So what exactly is a rooftop tent and why do you need one? A rooftop tent is a tent that mounts on top of your vehicle's roof rack, allowing you to sleep up high and under the stars.

No more worrying about finding a campsite or clearing the ground of rocks and sticks. You can set up camp anywhere your vehicle can take you. All you have to do is park, climb up, and you're ready to bed down for the night.

Rooftop tents provide extra security since you're off the ground. You'll stay dry even if there's rain, and you won't have to deal with bugs or critters crawling into your tent. Our rooftop tents sleep two people and sets up in under a minute.

If you like to get off the beaten path for camping and overlanding, a rooftop tent is a game changer. You'll gain access to rugged, remote destinations without needing a campground. And there's nothing quite like falling asleep under a sky full of stars and waking up to a breathtaking sunrise.

For the ultimate adventure, a rooftop tent offers comfort and convenience. Once you try one, you'll never want to camp any other way. 

Types of Rooftop Tents: Hard Shell vs Soft Shell

The two main types of rooftop tents are hard shell and soft shell. Hard shell tents have a rigid, fiberglass shell and soft shell tents have a pliable shell made of canvas or polyester fabric.

Hard shell tents are more durable, while soft shell tents may require more maintenance. Rugged Rooftops has created a hard-shell rooftop tent with aluminium shell construction (aluminium frame, aluminium honeycomb board) making it highly durable and weather resistant.

With a hard shell tent, setup and takedown are also much faster since the shell retains its shape. The hard shell also protects the tent from outside elements better. In comparison, soft shell tents require more time to set up as you have to deploy the tent poles to give the structure shape each time. The tent material also needs to be secured to the vehicle to prevent flapping at high speeds. 

Overall, we would suggest a hard shell tent to our campers, as it is the most robust and durable option for all-weather camping!

How it can save your camping trips

A rooftop tent can save you from uncomfortable camping experiences. Ever had a tent leak in the rain or blow over in high winds? Rooftop tents are securely attached to your vehicle’s roof rack, so you don’t have to worry about it toppling over or flooding.

Stay Warm and Dry

Rooftop tents keep you elevated off the cold, wet ground. No more sleeping on uneven ground or waking up in a puddle! The floor and walls provide insulation to keep you warm on chilly nights. When it’s raining, you’ll stay cozy and dry inside while listening to the pitter-patter on the tent ceiling.

Epic Views

Imagine waking up to a stunning sunrise over mountains or a sky full of stars. Rooftop tents give you a unique vantage point for stargazing and enjoying scenic vistas. You’ll get views you just can’t experience in a ground tent.

Quick Setup and Takedown

Rooftop tents allow for fast setup and takedown. No more struggling with tent poles or fighting the wind while pitching your tent. Just unfold your rooftop tent, secure the ladder, and climb right in. When it’s time to leave, simply fold it up, secure the cover and you're ready to hit the road! This convenience means more time enjoying your trip and less time fussing with equipment.

Rooftop tents can transform an ordinary camping trip into an epic adventure. Save time, stay comfortable, and enjoy the views - your rooftop tent has you covered!

Conclusion

You now have all the basics to get started with rooftop tent camping. These innovative tents open up a whole new world of adventure right on top of your vehicle. Whether you want to escape for a quick weekend getaway or embark on a cross-country road trip, a rooftop tent provides shelter and a comfortable place to rest under the stars. With stunning views and the freedom to roam, you might just find yourself falling in love with rooftop life. 

To explore and learn more about our Rooftop Tents check out our Instagram where you'll find scenic photographs of Rugged Rooftops in the wild and are happy customers sharing their camping adventures. Feel free to call us for a chat or send us a message if you have any questions.