Roof top tents have been popular around the world for over thirty years, but it hasn’t been until recently that they exploded into the American market. If this product is new or familiar to you, you’re probably still wondering if a roof top tent is really worth all that money?
In this article, I state all of the reasons to buy a roof top tent and what I have learned to love from using mine! Many of my friends and family ask me the same questions quite often, so that is where the inspiration for this article stems from.
Now that we’ve had a proper introduction, let’s get into the first of many good reasons to buy a roof top tent (RTT)!
1. Built-in mattress
Leave the padding and blow up mattress at home! One of my favorite things about a RTT is the fact that they are way more comfortable and easier to bring on a camping trip than any other bedding.
A mattress, bedding, and pads take up a bunch of space when you pack up the car. This isn’t an issue since the mattress is packed inside the RTT.
Most roof tents have a 2-3 inch thick mattress which offers a great night of sleep. Multiple tent manufacturers offer mattress upgrades when you buy your tent too.
2. Freedom
I love not being tied down to a location. You can camp anywhere your car can go.
Campgrounds, RV sites, BLM lands, national forests, parking lots, and much more! I have found being spontaneous usually brings me my favorite and most memorable camping trips.
If you’re on a road trip or looking to explore, you don’t need to have a set plan. All you need is a place to park the car and pop open the tent!
3. The views
This is hard to explain to someone until they experience it for themselves. When I first camped in my RTT I was shocked how high up it actually was. This vantage point really makes a picture perfect view and amazing scenery.
I don’t know about you, but when I’m camping I use it to relax and forget about the minutia of day to day life. Sleeping on top of your car or trailer offers a fulfilling sense and ability to soak in your surroundings.
4. Looks
Let’s be honest, they look awesome! For years I saw them on cars as I drove passed them but never gave it much thought. It wasn’t until I saw one being used while I was camping and thought, “Now that’s the way to camp!”.
As the RTT industry has become increasingly more competitive, the design of the tents has improved dramatically. If you want something sleek and unnoticeable, you can certainly find that.
Manufacturers have also put more effort into adding color options to differentiate themselves from other companies.
5. Insulation
This is an easy feature to overlook but it is a game-changer in my eyes. Softshell RTTs are made with thick fabric, 260-grams on the low end, and 360-grams on the high. This thick fabric retains heat very well.
If you buy a hardshell, those will perform even better at retaining heat. Companies like iKamper put an emphasis on this feature, they have an inch of air insulation between the double-layered shell.
Many other companies implement their own form of insulation technology. The flooring of almost all RTTs is also insulated. Most of all, being off of the cold ground saves you many degrees in a drop in temperature.
6. Speedy set up
Roof tents are faster to set up than most ground tents. While some styles can be much quicker than others, you never have to worry about cleaning the dirt off of your RTT.
Even though there are a few pop-up tents in the ground tent category, there are also softshell and hardshell RTTs that be set up in just 60 seconds. And that includes having the mattress ready to go for use.
Humans are constantly looking for the most convenient option and I have no doubt roof top tents are that!
7. Pick any style
This is key for consumers because you’re not stuck on choosing between only a few styles or brands.
You can really take your pick between over 50 quality RTTs from various manufacturers. This is important because all campers have different needs that have to be met. You can find the perfect RTT for you and your family by doing just a bit of research.
This can take a lot of time, the biggest thing you need to decide on is hardshell or softshell? Each has its own set of pros and cons. If you’re looking to save some time and learn more, here is another article I wrote listing 30 Differences Between Hard and Softshell RTTs. After reading this, you should have an exact idea of which style RTT to buy!
8. Cleanliness
I teased it earlier when talking about setting up your tent but it’s true. Best case scenario when using a ground tent, you hope it isn’t wet or muddy so you only collect and track in dust/dirt. And good luck if you’re camping on the beach!
RTTs stay way cleaner being off the ground. No mud, dirt, or sand gets tracked into the tent at the volume a regular tent would. Even the entry-level models have a shoebag so you can easily take off and store your shoes once you’re up to the tent.
I would argue most campers want to stay moderately clean when camping. If not, this will at least save you from the frustrating process of shaking out your tent when you get home after a long camping weekend.
9. Accessories
You can buy tons of aftermarket accessories from RTT brands to trick out your tent. So many in fact, I made a condensed version of My Favorite RTT Accessories to give you a better idea of what’s out there!
LED lighting, anti-condensation mats, movie stands, weather-covers, you a name it! This is nice because you may really want a brand that a buddy told you was great, but you like another RTT that has a certain feature. No problem, odds are you can get the recommended brand and buy the missing accessory separately.
Whether you’re a “glamper” or not, being able to upgrade your tent down the road is a great option to have.
10. Brand names
I’ll admit, I am a sucker for going for the brand name when I know the store brand is probably just as good.
Brands ensure quality and value, the RTT market is no different. There are so many big players in the industry that you can’t really go wrong with any tent. Some may be better than others in certain areas, but you will likely see the same handful of brands pop-up everywhere you search.
There are plenty of value options, and even then some of the bigger brands make a competitive tent to those. You don’t have to worry much about the quality of a RTT when you’re shopping around.
11. Cargo Carrier
Living in the Pacific Northwest I see cargo carries on what seems like every other car!
What’s awesome about hardshell RTTs is some can be switched from a tent to a cargo box with a simple zipper. For example, the Tepui Hybox has this feature!
Rather than switching between your cargo carrier and RTT, find one that does both, saving you both time and money!
12. Annex
Adding an annex to a roof tent set up will significantly improve your camping experience.
An annex offers space for storage, dining, shelter, and even sleeping. You connect it right to your tent and it often covers the ladder. This will protect you from bad weather and help retain heat.
Quite a few RTTs come with an annex and if not, can be bought separately. Buying an annex is also a great solution for a large family looking for plenty of space for everyone!
13. Luxury
When you first sit in a RTT you quickly understand why they cost as much as they do.
Comfort, lighting, and insulation are all added luxuries that come with RTTs. There are even bigger luxuries to be added like 12V/USB plugins, solar panels, and much more.
This is the perfect stepping stone between a ground tent and a camper trailer. While RTTs are expensive, they cost pennies compared to a decent camper trailer.
14. Waterproof
We all try to avoid camping in the rain but sometimes it happens. When it does, I prefer to be prepared.
This is much easier in a RTT for a couple of reasons. Being off the ground, you’re not going to be sitting in a puddle of water and neither will your tent. The fabric on high-quality roof tents is waterproof, making preparations very simple.
It’s super annoying when water pools up on your tent and you have to push it off. Most softshells are good at this, but especially hardshells. I would pick an RTT over a ground tent any day of the week if I am stuck in the rain.
15. Pick your size
RTT companies do well at offering a wide variety of sizes to fit different party sizes.
If you’re riding solo or camping as a couple, a two-person tent would suit you fine. Have a child or dog? Bump it up to a three-person tent! For families, you can even find 4-5 person tent capacities and that’s not including the annex which can often fit a queen size mattress itself.
Being able to tailor an RTT to your demands is quite nice. For me, I bring my girlfriend and dog along so we are plenty comfortable in a 2.5 person tent (the half person is my dog alder).
16. All-season use
We already covered insulation, but going further than that, many RTTs are rated for four-season use.
I would much rather get off the cold snow-covered ground and be in a cozy roof tent. The thick fabric is sufficient, going a step further you can buy anti-condensation mats and added insulation. As you know already, you also won’t have to worry about getting wet!
I would feel comfortable taking my RTT out in some pretty cold temperatures and I have seen many that do it!
17. Solar panels
RTTs have been very popular in Australia for over three decades. These companies with a long line of history have thought of it all.
Adding a solar panel is quite a luxury. While you can always pack one in the car, it doesn’t beat having one mounted and wired to your tent. This way you, can power any item of your choice from the comfort of your bed.
This add-on is featured in hardshell models and comes at a premium. If you have the money, this would be a great accessory to have.
18. Leave bedding in the tent
Setting up camp takes a fair amount of time, but breaking down camp always seems to take longer.
Either way, deflating the blowup mattress and gathering the bedding from inside the ground tent is a nuisance. Hardshells, and even some softshell RTTs, allow you to leave bedding inside the tent. And by bedding, I mean pillows, sheets, or sleeping bags!
This saves more time than you think and it’s just one more convenience RTTs add.
19. Durable
I saved this one for later on the list because everyone will say this as well, but I have to throw my hat into the ring too.
The materials used to build RTTs are premium and in some cases use only stainless steal and aluminum. These tents are meant to last so long as you treat them well. Even if they’re not metal, fiberglass shells and thick non-rip polyester fabric stand up to the test of time.
Your money isn’t just going towards a tent you can put on your roof, rather a high-quality product that was given much thought!
20. Cozy
Some people may disagree with me on this point, but I like being in a more compact space. Not to the point where I am crammed in like a sardine, but small enough where I don’t have a bunch of unneeded space.
I find the smaller and enclosed space of RTTs very cozy. Speaking in more practical terms, they stay much warmer throughout the night!
21. Customizable
As the RTT industry because more competitive, companies offer a huge variety of colors, add ons, and upgradable features.
Being able to add solar panels, a nicer mattress, a condensation mat, or extra lighting are all huge perks. The options are virtually limitless on how much you can add to your set up.
In the first couple of years, you might not feel the need to buy any add ons. But three or four years into it, you can easily justify some upgrades to your RTT!
22. Elevated off the ground
Being off the ground is great for views, warmth, and staying dry. This isn’t news to you, but let me give you my take on it!
I personally find being off of the ground gives me a feeling of safety. While a bear or mountain lion can certainly climb 8 feet up if it really wants to, it beats being a sitting duck on the ground. Plus you don’t have to worry about creepy crawlies either!
Being elevated 8 feet in the air just provides you with a sense of enjoyment too. I find it really fun showing friends and seeing their faces for the first time!
23. Save time
We already talked about the set up time for the tent, but you will also save time not having to clear out rocks or find the perfectly flat camping area.
You can bring blocks or traction pads to help level your vehicle out on an uneven surface. With RTTs, you don’t need to find a level campground as long as you can level your vehicle.
24. Leave the air mattress at home
Don’t you love it when you blow up your air mattress and wake up in the middle of the night to find yourself sleeping on a deflated bed?
This may or may not have happened to you, but the point is they’re a pain in the butt! Packing the bulky mattress in the car and then slowly waiting for the air to seep out as you deflate it to pack up camp.
Air mattresses are certainly more comfortable than the ground. However, I’m glad I will never have to deal with one again!
25. Spontaneity
The more I got into camping the more I wanted to explore different areas. Breaking down camp can be a hassle at times and that might stop you from exploring another site.
There is is no need to call ahead and make a reservation for a campsite. If you want, you can simply bounce from location to location and plan as you go!
If you’re on a long road trip and find yourself tired, find a place to park the car and set up “camp”!
26. Fits any vehicle
The bigger your vehicle is, the more likely you are to take just about any pick of RTT you want.
That said, you can still find RTTs that fit a sedan! You will be limited to a two-person RTT around 100 pounds, but at least you can still experience a RTT.
No matter your vehicle type, roof tents are inclusive for all campers!
27. Air circulation
More times than not, you’re bringing a small fan to help cool you down in and out of the tent. Top of the line tents like the James Baroud line up has built-in circulation vents. They can run for 24 hours straight off of a single charge.
Opening up all of the doors and windows works great until that cool breeze stops passing through.
28. Conversation starter
Depending on if you’re an introvert or an extrovert this may be a pro or a con in your eyes!
I can guarantee you that people will approach you at a campground and ask you all about your tent. I find it fun and will often lecture them on the many perks my RTT brings me!
29. Wind
Nothing is worse than camping in high winds and having the tent fabric or rainfly flap loudly in the wind.
Hardtops are exceptionally good at canceling any noise caused by wind. Furthermore, the sturdy frame of RTTs can handle high winds too. Some companies even test their tents in 60 miles per hour wind!
The best part is you don’t have to worry about staking a tent into the ground too.
30. Frees up packing space
As you pack to leave for your camping trip you soon realize how precious the space in your car is for gear.
A tent and blowup mattress takes up a large amount of that coveted space. Being able to pack those items on the roof will give you more room to bring the gear you need.
Our FJ Cruiser would fill up quick when we packed our gear into it, now we have much more wiggle room to bring items we couldn’t fit before!
31. An excuse
Sometimes you need an excuse to get away for a weekend and go camping. When you spend the money on a RTT you gain the perfect excuse! You have to justify the purchase somehow, right?
In all seriousness, after buying a RTT I was more committed to camping. Not just because of the money, rather I truly enjoy using it!
32. Community
A really cool part about overlanding and RTT camping is the community around it.
I have joined multiple Facebook groups and have learned how to best optimize our set up, find great camping spots, use best practices, and what apps to use for travel.
I don’t think I would have immersed myself into these groups without buying a RTT, and since then I have gained invaluable knowledge to best enjoy my trips.
33. Easy to resell
While RTTs are a decent sized purchase, once you buy one you’re not married to it.
I have found a bunch of roof tents on Facebook market, Ebay, and Craigslist. Sometimes you can find a really good deal for a tent that wasn’t even used that much. The point is, you can easily sell a tent and put that cash towards a new one you’ve been eyeing!
If you’re looking to buy a used tent, you can save a considerable amount of money buying from someone who simply didn’t get enough use out of it!
My favorite roof top tents
- Entry level – The Smittybilt Overlander
I can speak from personal experience on this suggestion because I actually own it! Like any other person, I wanted to see if I would even enjoy a RTT.
I bought mine off Amazon for $900 with shipping included. You just can’t beat that. It is made by a reliable and trusted brand, plus has tons of consumers that swear by it. By no means is it the fanciest, but it’s not a piece of crap.
It is durable and you get the full experience of a RTT when using it, and that what matters for your first RTT.
- Mid tier – The CVT Mount Shasta
CVT is a great company that makes premium RTTs. They specialize in foldable tents and you can snag this model for a reasonable $1,895. The quality of the tent from top to bottom is the best in its class.
You can also upgrade to the Summit edition for a total of $2,595. This upgrade increases the thickness of the fabric, adds insulated flooring, and a telescoping ladder. Even more, it comes with an anti-condensation mat, LED lighting, USB ports, a softer mattress, and much more.
CVT’s are very popular in the PNW since they’re based in Bend, Oregon. They have grown a lot in popularity over the years and I think that is in part to having a truly great product!
- Dream tent – James Baroud Explorer
In all honesty, I would love to have any hardshell tent from the James Baroud line up. These bad boys will cost you anywhere from around $3,500 and up.
They are a huge player in the market and manufacture extremely durable and luxurious tents. If I had the money to spend on a brand new hardshell it would be one from their line up. I had my eyes on the explorer model, I prefer the pop-up style personally.
I think the model you choose depends a lot on the amount of space you need and the weather you will use it in. From the added air circulation, insulated shell, and comfy mattress, I don’t see where you could go wrong!
Conclusion
While roof top tents may not be for everyone, they certainly are gaining popularity. People prefer comfort and the ability to get up and go at a moment’s notice.
If I were talking to a friend that was considering buying a RTT, I would tell him all of the reasons I just gave you! I know I enjoy mine, and after much deliberation before buying, I was ecstatic once I finally got it.