True for almost all consumers, you would prefer to not spend more money on an item if you’re just paying for the brand name. If all things are the same, wouldn’t you rather get a better value?
This is especially true for prospective roof top tent buyers. I searched for hours and watched all the review videos I possibly could before buying my first roof top tent (RTT). Even then, I was left wondering if I had overplayed because, at the time, I was new to the whole idea.
With the knowledge I have gained from researching, using, and talking to RTT users, I wanted to list what I believe to be the best roof top tents for your money in an unbiased way! This will provide you with the best value possible and hopefully, in the end, save you some cash.
Best roof top tents for the money
I figured the most simple way to go about this was by breaking it down into dollar amounts. So, I will talk about my favorite RTT for under $1,000, $1,500, and so on.
Each consumer has their own spending limit and budget. I aim to lend potential advice to as many RTT buyers as possible. And who knows, you may find a feature to be worth that extra $500 or $1000 you didn’t think would be worth it.
Best RTT for under $1,000
Smittlybilt Overlander
I would recommend this tent to anyone looking to enter the RTT world. I bought this tent for $899 brand new on Amazon with shipping included and I have seen it priced closely at other online retailers too. You just can’t beat that price.
Even more important, it is made by Smittybilt, a trusted and well-known brand in the vehicle accessory community. Smittybilt has been innovating Jeep and vehicle accessories for over 50 years and has created a strong brand name for themselves.
This tent is very durable and heavy-duty for the price. In no way does it look cheap or skip any corners. My first impression when I got my Smittybilt was more than satisfactory, I felt like I got a steal of a deal. Compared to other tents in this price range, It would be hard to justify another pick.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Size Open |
|---|---|---|---|
| $899 | 118 lbs | 2-3 | 95” W x 56” L x 51” H |
What’s great about this RTT?
For starters, it’s not overly bulky or heavy. Weighing just 118 pounds, it comfortably sleeps 2-3 people, which is more than most tents for under $1,000. If you need more space, Smittybilt offers an XL version (model 2883) for around $1,100 that has all of the same specs but sleeps 3-4 people!
The mattress is two inches thick and made of high-density foam. I can confidently say it is comfortable and absolutely beats any blowup mattress. Some prefer to add a little extra padding for more comfort but is by no means necessary. It is also easy to clean the bed’s fabric as all you need to do is unzip it, wash it, and let it air dry.
The fabric feels very durable. It has a 600D heavy-duty ripstop polyester fabric and dual-stitched lining. Smittybilt even adds a bit of luxury into the tent with a LED light strip, shoe bag, cigarette lighter adapter, travel bag, and a rainfly. The tent itself is waterproof and there are windows and mesh netting on every side of the tent for optimal airflow and views.
You can mount this RTT to just about any vehicle and hit the road. What’s also nice is you can have the RTT set up to open on the side or back of the vehicle.
What would I change about this RTT?
If I had to change one thing about this tent it would definitely be the sliding ladder. It is plenty strong and gets the job done, but after a few uses, dust and dirt will get into the sliding tracks. This makes sliding the ladder open and closed increasingly more difficult. Due to this, you probably want to clean the tracks every few uses.
Another feature I am not overly fond of is the PVC cover. I was pleasantly surprised to see the quality of the cover and how heavy it was. But when you got to undo or cover your RTT, the velcro is a huge pain in the butt. It takes a fair amount of time to tuck all of the tent fabric in and line the velcro up perfectly around the tent.
Final word
To quickly summarize my thoughts on the Smittybilt Overlander, I feel the pros vastly outweigh the cons. For the price of this RTT, you won’t find another option better than this one.
I would recommend this tent to anyone looking to buy for the first time. This way, you get the full experience and can see if you even like using a roof tent.
Best RTT for $1,500
Tepui Low-Pro 2
Tepui is a staple in the RTT industry and is one of the most popular and trusted brands. They make great tents that are reasonably priced for everyone.
This particular model is super lightweight and has a streamlined design. Priced right at the $1,500 mark, this tent is perfect for a couple looking to explore at any time of the year.
What’s great about this RTT?
A common complaint about foldable RTTs is the tall height they have when shut. This is the thinnest foldable RTT on the market at just 10″ tall. This allows for better aerodynamics and less drag when driving. What’s more, this is Tepui’s lightest RTT in their lineup which is great for all vehicle types!
Tepui uses lightweight but durable materials, which makes this tent useable in all-seasons. The mattress is two inches and made of high-density foam, which is on par with other tents at this price. The base of the tent has a honeycomb construction which means it is extremely strong and durable.
Lastly, the Low-Pro model has an 8 foot 6-inch telescoping ladder. This is the longest you will find a ladder on a RTT without buying an extension. More importantly, telescoping ladders are the more premium and preferred ladder-type by RTT users.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1,499.95 | 105 | 2 | 50″ W x 84″ L x 44″ H |
What would I change about this RTT?
Many campers bring a child or dog with them and it would be pretty tight in this model. They do have a three-person model, the Low-Pro 3, but it’s priced at $1,849.95.
You’re paying for high-quality materials and durability at this $1,500 price point. However, you don’t get much in terms of luxury included. No lighting, USB ports, or convenient shoe bags.
Lastly, one side of the tent is about two inches taller than the other. This is done on purpose to get that low profile, but you definitely notice it when you look at it. So, if you have OCD like me, this may bother you.
Final word
Wrapping up on the Tepui Low-Pro 2, I think this tent is exceptional for all vehicle types. It differentiates itself in a few major ways which make the price a fair ask.
If I am willing to spend the extra $500 or so over a Smittybilt, I would opt for a Tepui tent. Being so popular, you know they are extremely high-quality and will leave you satisfied with your purchase.
Best RTT for $2,000
CVT Mount Shasta
Cascadia Vehicle Tents (CVT) is a well-known brand in the RTT industry. They specialize mostly in softshell RTTs but have a couple of hardshell tents as well. They use premium materials throughout their tents which is why they have gained popularity and come with a cost.
They are based in Bend Oregon and have successfully made a name for themselves. I was recently at a camping expo and was able to check out all of their RTTs and speak to their salespeople. I already knew about CVT, but seeing the tents in person verified everything I had assumed about their RTTs.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1,895 | 117 | 2-3 | 48″W X 96″L X 50″H |
What’s great about this RTT?
The Mount Shasta Model features a comfy 3″ high-density foam mattress for a good night’s sleep. The flooring is insulated and made of aluminum, a great feature to stay warm throughout the night.
The fabric is made of a 280-gram poly/cotton ripstop. This thick and durable fabric can enable a camper to use it at any point of the year while standing up to high winds and heavy rains. The PVC cover protecting the tent when folded also uses a zipper, which is preferred!
The biggest selling point that stands out to me is the included annex, usually a $300 value. This space goes under your tent offering more storage, a sleeping area, changing room, or a place to eat! I can’t think of a more useful add-on than an annex when it comes to RTTs.
What you don’t see in the specs but is reflected in the pricing, is the true quality of these tents. CVT does it right, using the best materials in all components of their products.
What would I change about this RTT?
I do however have one major gripe about this model, and that is the ladder. I feel if you’re going to spend almost two grand on a RTT, you should have a telescoping ladder, not a sliding one.
Another note to make, the annex doesn’t enclose the ladder unless you upgrade to the extended model which costs $2,095. In my mind, it is worth adding the overhang to enclose your ladder.
Final word
When I look at the CVT Mount Shasta I feel confident in its ability to over-deliver on quality and how long it will last. You can use it during all four-seasons, have better insulation, and be sure you have one of the most heavy-duty softshell RTTs on the market.
Just about every camper I talk to and video I watch reviewing any CVT model is overwhelming positive. That is why I feel confident that at this dollar amount, the value justifies the cost!
Best RTT for $2,500
FSR High Country 55″
Coming in slightly below budget at $2,395, the High Country built by Free Spirit Recreation has some very unique features that differentiate itself from other softshell RTTs.
FSR has a great line-up of tents from top to bottom and I’ve noticed they like to stand out from the rest of the RTT brands out there. I have looked at their tents while at camping expo’s and have been very impressed. They are well known and respected throughout the overlanding community.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $2,395 | 141 lbs | 2-3 | 55″L X 98”W x 46”H |
What’s great about this RTT?
There is a lot to love about this tent. First, the design allows for a super quick set up which takes only 60 seconds. This is probably the fastest foldout RTT in the market. The base of the tent is also reinforced with aluminum which I love to see.
An awesome feature is the fabric used on the High Country RTT. It’s fitted with FSR’s tri-layer technology which is weatherproof, strong, and great for insulation. The seams of the fabric are double stitched with polyurethane tape for a watertight seal. High winds? No problem. This RTT can be used in all four seasons as well.
The High Country comes with an aluminum ladder that extends 7.5 feet for an easy set up. The tent weighs only 141 pounds because it uses ultralight fabrics. When the tent is closed, it maintains a low-profile for better aerodynamics.
This tent will fit on vehicles that are a mid-SUV or larger in size. Realistically, you can sleep two adults comfortably in this tent with enough room for a dog or small child.
What would I change about this RTT?
Looking through all of the specs, I am not left with much to complain about. One of the features I wish would be improved is the fabric for the mattress cover. It is more industrial, which is great for cleaning it, but it creates a lot of static shock and you will find your pillow slipping out from under you. I simple solution is to add a sheet over the slippery cover!
There is no overhang on the entrance of the RTT like you would see in some of the Tepui and CVT models. This feature is helpful for protection against rain and allowing you to keep a window open. If this feature is important to you, this model may not be right for you.
Final word
This is definitely one of the more premium foldout models on the market. FSR offers a very different product which is quick, durable, and comfortable. Overall, I am very impressed with this tent and find that the few cons don’t matter much to me.
Because of that, I would recommend the FSR High Country to anyone that could afford it. What’s also nice is they offer two bigger versions of this model if you’re looking for more space!
Best RTT for $3,000
Roofnest Sparrow and Sparrow Eye
At the $3,000 mark, you’re finally in the territory to shop between a few hardshell RTTs. Which, in the opinion of most campers, is by far the superior style to have.
If you’re curious why this style is preferred over softshells, read my article on hardshell RTTs. I quickly touch on over 30 features that differentiate the two.
I went with two picks on this price point because they are essentially the same RTTs. However, one features a pop-up style and the other is a clamshell. Roofnest makes some really attractive hardshell RTTs and they deliver them at an extremely competitive price point.
If I were to buy a hardshell today, it would be from Roofnest because I feel the value you get for the price is simply unmatched.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $2,895 | 130 lbs | 2 | 85″L x 50″W x 40″H |
What’s great about these RTTs?
First off, these models can fit on any vehicle type and the price is just untouchable. The shell is made of fiberglass plastic and has a designated area that you can mount a solar panel on. Other hardshell RTTs that are more expensive than this model don’t even have that option.
There is also a gear storage area with a waterproof bag that you attach to the top of the shell. This is a great option if you don’t want to keep your ladder in the tent. The ladder itself telescopes up to 8.5 feet and can be mounted under any window.
The fabric is 280-grams thick and waterproof. The inside of the tent has a mesh netting gear loft, a three-inch mattress, and an anti-condensation mat to fight off the cold. The top and bottom of the tent are both insulated.
For how durable the tent is, I am impressed with its lightweight at just 130 pounds. The entire tent can be unzipped in case you find a rip and need to replace it too.
What would I change about this tent?
I really can’t present a sufficient reason to not buy this RTT. I truly feel that Roofnest delivers a far superior tent, while other manufacturers ask for more money.
With their current model as of 2020, Roofnest has essentially taken every critique and improved upon them or corrected the issue.
Final word
I fancy myself to be a bargain shopper. I rather pay less for an item that has similar or even better features. You can watch a handful of reviews and barely find any negatives about the Sparrow model.
If you need more room, they also offer an XL model for $3,095, which you can check out at their website. If I were to give a genuine recommendation to someone looking to buy a hardshell, I would give a strong suggestion for any of Roofnest’s RTTs!
Best RTT for $3,500
Skycamp 2X by iKamper
iKamper makes amazing tents and pretty much every RTT user knows about them. The company is based in South Korea and they put out some very impressive models.
The Skycamp 2X sleeps two people comfortably, features a hybrid-like design, and is priced at $3,499.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $3,499 | 120 lbs | 2 | 85.8″W x 54.3″L x 43″H |
What’s great about this RTT?
All iKamper hardshells feature a double-layered shell with an inch of air insulation between them. This allows for better insulation and keeps the tent warm when in cold environments. To me, this is one of the biggest difference-makers when buying from iKamper!
The inside of the tent has a comfortable 1.8″ high-density memory foam mattress and a beautiful world map picture displayed. The floor itself features honeycomb aluminum panels for durability and optimal insulation. The perfect combo for four-season use.
The ladder telescopes and is stored inside the tent while not being used. The tent has hard shell locks that are stronger than stainless steal, keeping your tent safe from anyone opening it. Lastly, the outer fabric around the windows can be turned into canopies.
iKamper RTTs also come equipped with their mounting bracket 2.0 system. This offers a much quicker set up, a game-changer for anyone taking the tent on and off frequently between uses.
You can also buy an annex or awning for this model separately. Not many hardtop RTTs offer the ability to add an annex, so this is huge in my eyes!
What would I change about this tent?
Since the tent is tapered you can only store so much bedding inside the tent. If you put most of your belongings such as pillows or blankets towards the back of the tent, it should close without a problem.
This is the case for many hardshells but you do have to store the ladder inside the tent. This isn’t a huge deal, but many campers just keep it in the truck or vehicle. You can easily forget the ladder when going out for a spontaneous overnight trip and be left with no way to get into your RTT.
Final word
This tent is perfect for a couple looking to adventure at in time of the year and have the tent last them for years to come. You will be extremely comfortable and warm inside the Skycamp 2X.
On a side note, if you’re looking for a more compact RTT you can look at the Skycamp Mini, or if you want to fit four people check out the Skycamp 2.0. The features on these models are all about the same, the only difference is the size and foldable component for a more compact design.
Overall, people rave about iKamper tents and I have never heard a camper report a negative review of one. The money you spend on a iKamper will guarantee a top of the line RTT!
Best RTT for $4,000 and up
Alu-Cab Gen 3
Now we’re talking some serious cash for a roof tent at over $4,000. To be honest, if you’re spending this much money you really can’t go wrong with any of the options at this price point.
However, I do prefer one of the others and that’s the Alu-Cab Gen 3 RTT. I still highly recommend a James Baroud RTT if you prefer fiberglass and many accessory options like annexes or awnings. The Eezi-Awn Stealth is another amazing metal hardshell but lacks some features the Alu-Cab Gen 3 does.
| Price | Weight | Capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| $4,099 | 194 lbs | 2-3 | 90.6″L x 55″W x 78.7″H (External) 82.7″L x 51″W x 63″H (Internal) |
What’s great about this RTT?
I would say my favorite feature on the Gen 3 is the optional solar panel you can upgrade to. This makes installing and integrating a solar panel to your RTT effortless. Depending on the number of watts and electrical kit you choose, the cost will range from $500 to $1000 for the added solar panel system.
Inside the tent, you will find USB power points and a 12V plug-in. The mattress is as comfortable as it gets being three inches thick and made of high-density foam. There is also LED lighting, dual-layer canvas, and foam insulation on the top/bottom of the tent.
This tent is made completely from lightweight aluminum and has built-in cargo rails to carry optional load bars. The load bars are rated to hold around 100 pounds in weight.
I could go on and on about the specs of the Gen-3, but they really speak for itself. Also, you’re probably tired of hearing me talk about my dream tent.
What would I change about this tent?
I don’t know if I would so much change these features, rather they are just something to be aware of.
First, the doors and windows are top opening. Which simply means they are attached to the bottom of the tent. Some people complain because you have to crawl over the rolled-up window. While others prefer it because you can maintain privacy while having a window cracked open for some fresh air.
Some of the James Baroud models feature an electric air circulation vent that can run for 24 continuous hours off of a single charge. I would like to see that integrated if I am paying top dollar for a RTT.
Lastly, you still have to store the ladder inside the tent. The Eezi-Awn stealth actually stores the ladder beneath the tent which is a pretty cool feature. In all, these are some really minor additions I would like to see but are by no means a deal-breaker for me.
Final word
At this price point, there is a good chance you already know what tent you want and have for some time now! But the Alu-Cab Gen 3 is my pick based purely on preference, my knowledge of it, and what I see to be a better value.
I love the lightweight aluminum shell, optional solar panel, and load bars. While it is a lot of money, the price reflects a rather fair mark for everything you get with the Gen-3. There are a few more options out there for more money, but I don’t really see the point.
Consider buying used to save money
A great way to find a premium RTT on clearance is to look for them at online marketplaces such as Facebook Market, Ebay, and Craigslist. I often see a couple of listing each day in my area.
For example, I came across a Tepui Kukenam 3 which typically costs around $1,700. The asking price was only $850 and it included a weather cover ($200 value) and some other aftermarket additions they made to the tent.
More than likely, the person selling is looking to upgrade or simply didn’t get enough use out of it to justify the cost. Either way, this equals a steal of a deal for you!
As long as you know what to examine when looking at the tent, you will get a great deal. Check the fabric and cover for tears, mildew, or any odd odors. Look under the bedding, check all of the zippers, test the ladder, and set it up/break it down yourself.
This may seem like a lot, but the seller will understand you’re just doing your due diligence. One last tip, what is the seller and condition of their other belongings like? Is their vehicle well kept? Does their reasoning make good sense?
I believe the sure-fire way to save money and get a great RTT is to buy used. If you’re on a budget, you can get a screaming deal more times than not.
Closing thoughts
I don’t have a horse in this race. I wanted to give potential RTT buyers the best option possible given their budget. It can be extremely difficult to formulate your own opinions by just watching Youtube videos.
RTTs have so many different features, designs, and styles that are marketable to a wide variety of camper’s needs. While one recommendation may be perfect for someone, it could come short of the needs for another.
But if someone told me I have “x” amount of money to spend at each of these various costs, these are my unbiased picks. I hope you feel informed and confident in your next exciting RTT purchase!