10 Best Rooftop Tents To Buy In 2021
rebecca malachi 
Image: TheBridalBox Design Team
In This Article
Rooftop tents help you create a makeshift shelter or camp on your off-road vehicle, no matter where you are. The tent system attaches to the vehicle roof and allows you to spend the holiday in your vehicle, removing the need to find a camping spot.
Rooftop tents are designed for comfort and protection from natural elements like mud, gravel, weather, and wildlife, and are a part of essential gear for regular campers. They also let you enjoy the bird’s eye view of your surroundings as you wake up each morning.
Here, we list some of the best rooftop tents for campers. Choose one that could come with you on your next adventure.
Top Picks
10 Best Rooftop Tents
1. Smittybilt Overlander Tent
Features
- High-density 92x55in foam double or full mattress
- Heavy-duty waterproof PVC top keeps tent dry and protects from sun
- Side windows with mosquito meshes
- Aluminum tent frame poles
- Telescopic ladder and LED strips with power adapter
- Easy to set up and remove
- Compatible with Smittybilt annex room
2. Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room
The Tuff Stuff ranger overland rooftop tent comes with the largest annex room. It is constructed from a durable and sturdy aluminum frame, and installation takes about two hours. The hardware required for the installation is included with the set.
Features
- Three windows with awnings for ventilation
- High-density 2.5-inch foam mattress
- Large area that can accommodate two adults
- Retractable and foldable ladder
- Blend of polyester and cotton ripstop fabric
- Waterproof and breathable
3. UBOWAY Awning Sun Shelter
This rooftop tent could be used as a car tent for MPVs, SUVs, hatchbacks, sedans, and trucks. You may also use it as a separate sun shelter when camping. The tent comes with a unique rain-resistant design and adhesive seams.
Features
- Large shade that is rainproof and waterproof
- Easy to install and store
- Extra sky window for ventilation
- Better lighting in the tent for reading
- Includes two sandbags and six ropes with stakes for stability
- Anti-UV 210D polyester fly with a silver coating material
4. Raptor Series OFFGRID Voyager Jeep Truck SUV Camping Rooftop
Made especially for Jeeps, this Raptor Series rooftop tent can also mount on other vehicle’s roof rack. It is aerodynamically engineered to resist rains and heavy winds. The tent door rolls down from the top for airflow, and the built-in awning gives a panoramic view from inside.
Features
- Accommodates up to 750lb weight and two persons
- High-density 78x48in foam full mattress
- Heavy-duty eight-foot telescoping aluminum ladder
- Built-in air vents with an adjustable control feature
- Two hanging shoe and storage pockets
- Large living space and place to hang the gear
5. Tepui Explorer Kukenam Rooftop Tent
The Tepui Explorer Kukenam tent works in all seasons, whether rain, shine, or snow. Designed with an interchangeable canopy, it adapts with ease in changing situations when you strap it to the top of the car. Constructed with a heavy-duty polyester and cotton fabric, it has good aesthetics, too.
Features
- Accommodates up to three people
- Mesh panels provide plenty of ventilation
- UV and mold resistant fabric withstands elements of any weather conditions
- Waterproof zippers and taped seams
- Mounting brackets for quick and easy installation
- Includes ladder for easy reach
6. TMB Sand White Shell Pop Up Roof Tent
Crafted with care and precision, this TMB rooftop tent gives ultimate comfort for campers. It includes a free flashlight, ladder, and an extra storage bag. You get them in five different colors and a pre-installed memory foam mattress that is comfortable for two people.
Features
- Suitable for vehicles with roof rails and crossbars
- Comes with a six-month manufacturer warranty
- Side pouches for storage
- Inner and outer zippers for easy closure
- Shock assisted arms for easy opening
- Sturdy and durable
7. Front Runner Rooftop Tent
The Front Runner rooftop tent is quick and easy to install, making it a good option for weekend camps. It features a mattress, zippered windows, and mesh screens in the roof for stargazing. Weighing less than 88.18lb, it is a good alternative to a lightweight tent.
Features
- Accommodates two people comfortably
- Leaves enough room for placing essentials
- The open dimensions are 4.3×7.9in
- Requires a Front Runner Tent mount kit for installation
- Waterproof, breathable, and mold-resistant
- Interior pockets and Velcro light loops
8. Yakima SkyRise Rooftop Tent-S
The Yakima skyrise rooftop tent can fit up to two people at a time. Constructed from a durable Nylon material and fitted with aluminum poles, it gives protection from winds and rains. It comes with an aluminum ladder, travel cover, SKS lock core, and 2.5-inch foam mattress.
Features
- Double-layer windows with zippers for protection from harsh weather
- Mesh layers on the windows for ventilation
- Built-in waterproof rain cover
- Lightweight and breathable
- Withstands a maximum capacity of 600lb
- Compatible with Yakima’s other great accessories – kayak rack and annex room
9. Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 4 Extended Rooftop Tent
The Nomadic line of tents from Overland Vehicle Systems uses the finest materials, including a double-insulated, one-piece diamond-plate base, reinforced stainless steel hardware, and hinges. Made of premium double ripstop cotton-polyester canvas, it can handle the harshest of the weather conditions.
Features
- Polyester waterproof rain cover
- Fade-resistant gaze breathable windows
- Three-inch foam mattress with quilted cotton cover
- Overhead storage loft for essentials
- Large collapsible tubular telescoping ladder
- Pair of polycotton shoe exterior pockets
- 40-in LED light strip
- Heavy-duty Velcro straps
- Includes memory foam pillows, lap table, dustpan, and mini broom
10. Silverwing SWT90 Hard Shell Roof Tent
Large enough for two people and their gear, this could be an outstanding tent from the Silverwing brand. It is a pre-assembled unit that sets up in one minute and measures 82x48x39in on opening. It includes an aluminum ladder that is adjustable up to 8.5in.
Features
- ABS reinforced hard shell and water-resistant tent fabric
- Large rain awning for entry
- Mesh windows and fully zipped doors offer protection from dust and snow
- Hanging storage net on the ceiling
- Two storage pockets for essentials
- Two extra metal hooks
- Thick foam mattress
- Safety straps hold the ladder in place
How To Choose The Right Rooftop Tents?
Some key considerations before planning to buy the best rooftop tent are mentioned below.
- Storage capacity: Consider the number of campers in your trip. Buy the one that has enough space to accommodate all or most, with room for essentials.
- Weight: Hardshell rooftop tents weigh more than traditional counterparts. Check for the maximum capacity your car can withstand and then pick accordingly. For some cars, you may also need to have a stronger rack, which can also add to the weight.
- Material: Check if the materials used for the frame, mattress, and the ladder are comfortable with added durability. Also, check if the exterior material is waterproof and weatherproof.
- Ease of installation: Any rooftop tent should be easy to install and remove. Go for the one with easy-to-read instructions, and that comes with the hardware needed for the installation.
Rooftop tents offer ground clearance, weather resistance, and can set up wherever you park the vehicle. Take time to check the features, read the reviews, and compare the technical aspects to get an outstanding tent.
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