Is Now the Perfect Time to Pick Up A Roof Top Tent?
There comes a time in every off-roader or overlanders life when they most contemplate one of life’s greatest mysteries: Should I get a Roof Top Tent? And yes, while it may seem like a daunting task to find the perfect roof top tent for your rig, this guide exists to simplify your roof top tent purchase decisions. Whether you’re looking to equip your Jeep, truck, Bronco or other 4x4 with a roof top tent for the first time or you’re looking to upgrade your existing tent, Northridge4x4 has a vast selection to choose from.
Why Do I Need a Roof Top Tent?
While roof top tents are more popular than ever, you may still be wondering if this is just a fad or maybe that soccer mom with a tent strapped to the top of her Subaru is truly on to something. Truth be told, roof top tents are not just a trend, they add real value to your outdoor adventures and don’t just exist for Instagram likes.
A roof top tent is a great option for just about anyone who is ready to ditch their hard to set up ground tent and wants to add more creature comforts to their camping trips. Many simply don’t want to sleep on the ground when they camp, which is a big reason why roof top tents are so popular. It also benefits overlanders as a roof top tent is fast and easy to set up, perfect for those who move campsites multiple times per trip.
What are the benefits of a Roof Top Tent?
- Fast set up and break down time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying camp and less time wrestling with ground tent poles.
- Weather resistance. Roof top tents are usually built with heavy-duty, waterproof materials that perform well in the wind, rain and even snow.
- Secure, elevated position roof top tents provide keeps you far away from wildlife such as bears, coyotes, mountain lions, Sasquatch, insects and other creepy crawlers.
- Frees up interior space. With a RTT you don’t need to store your bulky tent and mattress in the cab of your already cramped 4x4.
- Off the ground sleeping. Being up off the ground means you won’t have to worry about sleeping on rugged, uncomfortable terrain such as jagged rocks and muddy terrain. As a bonus, you get a pretty great view of your surroundings from up in the tent.
How do I mount a Roof Top Tent on my 4x4?
Before you start enjoying all the benefits of an RTT, you need the means to mount it to your 4x4! That’s where roof racks or truck bed racks come in, these serve as the mounting surface for your fancy new roof top tent.
Luckily, you don’t need to browse through sketchy Amazon listings when you can shop Northridge4x4 and get a high-quality rack that fits your vehicle perfectly right off the get go. With a roof rack or truck bed rack, you’re ready to get your tent mounted up and start enjoying your tent!
Soft Shell Vs Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
So, you’ve made the right choice and decided you’re ready to experience camping in the clouds, however, there’s still one more important choice to make! Soft Shell or Hard Shell Roof Top Tent? Let's compare some of the major benefits of both options!
| Soft Shell Roof Top Tent | Hard Shell Roof Top Tent |
|---|---|
|
+ Typically have larger sleeping spaces |
+ Set up time is much faster than Soft Shell Tents |
|
+ Generally more affordable |
+ More aerodynamic |
|
+ Most soft shell tents are compatible with Annexes |
+ Durable Exterior Shell |
|
+ Usually fold up to a smaller footprint than a hardshell |
+ Can include more space to store bedding inside |
|
- Less aerodynamic |
- Typically has less sleeping area than soft shell tents |
|
- Longer set up time |
- Generally more expensive |
Don't Let Another Camping Season Pass you By!
So, what are you waiting for? Camping season is here! Now is the perfect time to get a roof top tent and start enjoying quick, easy setups along with next-level comfort and convenience and ditch that ground tent for good. Check out some of our top roof top tent options below!
And while you're down there, let us know in the comments, are you planning to get a roof top tent, or do you already have one? If so, tell us what you think of it!
Click Here to view our entire Roof Top Tent selection!
Still have questions?
Roof Top Tent Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long does it take to setup and takedown a roof top tent?
A: Most soft-shell tents take around 5-10 minutes, while hard-shell tents can take anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
Q: Can I leave bedding inside a roof top tent when it’s closed?
A: It depends, Most RTTs have enough room to fit bedding such as pillows and blankets. Some only have enough room for the included mattress.
Q: What vehicles can you put a roof top tent on?
A: Most SUVs, Jeeps, Trucks and some crossovers can carry an RTT. As long as the roof rack or crossbars are rated for the tent’s static and dynamic load.
Q: Can I use a roof top tent in the winter?
A: Yes! With proper insulation and cold-weather gear, most Roof Top Tents can be used as 4-season tents.
Q: Are roof top tents comfortable?
A: Absolutely, Roof Top Tents are well known for their unparalleled comfort compared to other options such as ground tents.
Q: Are roof top tents safe from bears?
A: The elevated position of a roof top tent can make it more difficult for a bear to access. However, it’s more important to make sure your campsite is clean, and avoid keeping food or scented items inside or near your tent.