What To Look For When Choosing A Rooftop Tent?

A rooftop tent is a tent that you can attach to the top of your car and use while off-roading. There are various varieties, and you can adjust how you use it to your comfort depending on other aspects, such as how many people you wish to use it with. The best rooftop tent for your car is one of the most crucial decisions you can make if you want to enjoy your camping trip with a car. 

Let’s look at the considerations you should make when purchasing a rooftop tent for your automobile since it is a long-term investment. 

1. Dimension and Fit

Before you buy a rooftop tent, you should be informed of the measurements of your automobile because fit is one of the most important considerations. The owner’s manual of your car or online resources can help you establish its size, after which you can choose the right tent size. 

The tent’s size impacts how much room it will take up on your car when stored and how much room you will have inside for sleeping. A huge tent can be too big for a little car. 

2. Hard-shell versus Soft-shell

Both soft-shell and hard-shell rooftop tents are available. The former is constructed of a soft, cloth-like substance, as suggested by the names, whilst the latter contains a strong and solid core. The most crucial decision may be between a hard-sided and a soft-sided tent.  

Although it may seem counterintuitive, the hard-shell tent is typically easier to set up and provides greater protection for the tent when traveling. One disadvantage is that they are more expensive and heavier. Soft-shell tents are more affordable and lighter than hard tents.  

However, they are less weatherproof than a hard tent, more challenging to erect, and occasionally clumsier. One may be preferred over the other by some. 

3. Optimal Ventilation 

When you’re outside, your rooftop tent will serve as your living room, bedroom, and general home base. Opting for a tent with sufficient ventilation is essential to guarantee that there is air to breathe inside. Look for mesh panels because this help to maintain the airflow in your tent. Additionally, it can prevent insects from entering. Next, check to see whether there are any airports or special vents. For better and ongoing ventilation, it would also be beneficial to have a second door or, at the very least, a window. 

 4. Enough Sleeping Room and Tent Size

The size and capacity of a rooftop tent are the first features you should consider. Verify if the brand or model has enough capacity for you. It entirely depends on the size of your group and the capacity of your tent. Consider the occupants’ number, body types, sleeping habits, and preferences. There is no industry standard for the measurements; you may assume the closest fit and increase or decrease by one the amount of room you require. 

The size and amount of room provided will greatly influence how comfortable the tent is while used. It might soon become uncomfortable and claustrophobic if you don’t have the right amount of room.

5. Suitable weight for the tent

You must consider the weight of the tent, much like the size. Only a particular amount of weight can be placed on your car. Your vehicle and rack can only support so much weight, including yours and the tent’s weight. The tent’s weight must be suitable for your vehicle and rack to ensure your safety. The tent needs to be designed with a load distribution system, a stable platform, and a ladder. 

The correct weight should be chosen because it will be simpler to handle, install, and transfer. You will find it challenging if the tent is heavier than designed and beyond your carrying capacity.

6. Cost-Effective

Finding a rooftop tent that fits your budget might be challenging because it can be fairly pricey. But if you do your homework, you may find a tent worth your money. Make a list of the features you desire in a tent, then look for tents locally and online. After that, determine if it is worth the price, along with an analysis. Although getting the least expensive one is tempting, keep in mind that it will be an investment over time. It will be in use for a while, and people’s comfort and safety will rely on it.

7. Setting up the Roof Top Tent

Ensure you understand how to erect the roof tent to avoid any problems camping. Setting up your second home in your automobile is difficult, but if you know exactly how to do it, you can set it up easily. Before going off the grid, you can build the rooftop tent and work out any problems you run into so you can become familiar with it and set it up quickly when you go camping. 

Bottomline 

People who want the adaptability of camping but don’t want to sleep on the ground should consider a rooftop tent a great option. Given the wide range of options available, choosing the one that best fits your needs might be difficult. A rooftop tent is simple to purchase. Consider doing considerable research on various brands and models before making a purchase. Don’t just glance at the object; get to know it. Additionally, consider reliable brands, appropriate accessories, maintenance, and after-sales services.