Uncategorized – Roof Tent Insider

Exploring remote locations in your rugged Jeep Wrangler is a journey in itself. However, many Jeep owners take it further and spend the night in the unexplored wilderness using a rooftop tent. Roof top tents make these wild excursions safer and more comfortable — yet how do you know which tent is right for you? The best rooftop tent for Jeep Wranglers is the Falcon 2. It's durable and reasonably priced and features comfortable sleeping quarters with weather protection. Other good rooftop tents include the Condor Overland, Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha, Smittybilt Hard Shell, and the Smittybilt Overland Gen2. This article dives into the five best rooftop tents for Jeep Wranglers, as well as their materials, weight, and other features. Read on to find the rooftop tent that works for you and your Jeep. Best Overall: Falcon 2 Those looking for a comfortable, durable, and moderately-priced rooftop tent are sure to enjoy the Falcon 2. This model is a bestseller, thanks to its durability and features. https://youtu.be/XTqVVHwPDq8 Materials This hardshell rooftop tent utilizes a sandwich construction, consisting of an insulating layer of foam between two aluminum sheets, which helps prevent condensation within the tent. The bottom shell features a honeycomb aluminum fabrication for increased durability. In addition, two accessory channels provide room for mounting up to 75-pounds (34 kg) of gear and help keep the load evenly distributed. Weight & Dimensions The Falcon 2’s aerodynamic design has an ultra-low profile, standing only 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) when closed. It has a load capacity is 650 pounds (295 kg), and weighs approximately 160 pounds (72.6 kg), making it one of the heavier options when it comes to rooftop tents. Interior Overlanders can access the tent’s interior via the 8.5-foot (2.6-meter) ladder. However, since there’s no extension panel, the ladder blocks the vehicle doors. A poly-cotton canvas blend lines the interior, complete with a blackout coating, creating a dark interior that makes it easier to sleep, no matter what time of day. Included LED lighting illuminates the inside of the tent. When you’re ready to lie down for the night, you and one other person can sleep comfortably on the 2.5-inch (6.4-cm) memory foam mattress. A downside is that bedding cannot be stored within the tent when closed. Weather Protection Are you concerned about inclement weather? Don’t be. The Falcon 2 can keep the interior dry and you protected from rain, thanks to the removable awnings over all three entrances (that won’t impede your view of the surrounding wilderness). Pros Honeycomb aluminum construction Ability to mount up to 75 pounds (34 kg) of gear Anti-condensation mat Cons Higher weight - 160 pounds (72.6 kg) Blocks vehicle doors/no extension panel No bedding/vehicle storage Best Durability: Condor by Roofnest PC: Roofnest Materials This fold-out-designed tent features all-aluminum construction that’s versatile, rugged, and strong. The honeycomb aluminum bottom shell provides extra strength, and the aluminum sides protect you from inclement weather. With support crossbars, overlanders can attach up to 40 pounds (18 kg) of gear to the side when open and 100 pounds (45 kg) when closed. Weight & Dimensions When closed, the tent measures 60 inches (1.5 m) long, 50 inches (1.3 m) wide, and 10 inches (0.25 m) tall. These dimensions easily fit over the bed of a Jeep Wrangler. The tent weighs 165 pounds (75 kg), putting it at the higher end of the weight scale for rooftop tents, and has a 650-pound (295 kg) weight limit. Interior Users access the interior via the 7.5-foot (2.3 m) ladder. The tough tent sleeps two to three people on a 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) foam mattress with a machine-washable quilted cover. For lighting, it utilizes battery-powered LED light strips. A skylight allows for nighttime stargazing while drifting off to sleep. In addition to the rooftop tent, it comes with a 4-foot by 4-foot (1.2 x 1.2 m) ground mat and a pop-up privacy tent so that you don’t have to worry about climbing in and out just to change clothes. Additionally, it comes with two detachable pockets for extra storage space. Weather Protection The Condor Overland is waterproof and features two windows with canvas and mesh zip closures. That way, you can open the canvas windows or main door for a breeze or close them if the weather takes a turn. There’s a clear plastic viewing window built into the tent cover. Pros All-aluminum construction Skylight for stargazing Large sleeping area Cons Higher weight - 165 pounds (75 kg)Tough to bolt to roof racksOnly packs down to 10 inches (0.25 m)Usually requires more than one person to take the tent on or off Best Basic Tent: Smittybilt Hardshell Roof Top Tent PC: Smittybilt Looking for a tent that has all the basics and a reasonable price point? Look no further than the Smittybilt Hardshell Roof Top Tent. Materials This low-profile aerodynamic tent features an anodized aluminum frame that’s lightweight with a strong build. For easy setup and take-down, it utilizes gas-assisted lifts. Stainless steel closures keep everything secure while traveling. The interior features a fabric-lined ceiling. Weight & Dimensions It weighs about 175 pounds (79 kg) and isn’t vehicle specific, so it’s perfect for a Jeep Wrangler. Users climb the 300-pound (136 kg) capacity telescoping ladder to access the tent. It features a load capacity of 661 pounds (300 kg). Interior The interior sleeps two to three people on its 2-inch (5 cm) foam mattress and a quilted cover. For lighting, there’s a pop-up LED solar-powered lantern. Additional storage comes from the included pouches, hooks, and shoe storage. Weather Protection Weather protection for this tent includes a 3000mm waterproof rating and gusseted awnings on all four sides. Together, they work to protect overlanders from any harsh weather conditions. Stainless steel closures also work to keep the tent securely closed and protected from winds and rain when traveling. Pros Aerodynamic shell Aluminum frame Gas-assisted struts for easy opening and closing Cons Heavy - 175 pounds (79 kg) Weak metal rods for window awnings Poor quality bolts Best Bang for the Buck: Smittybilt Overland Gen 2 PC: Smittybilt Budget tents may not provide as much luxury as their more expensive counterparts, but they can still offer an enjoyable overlanding experience. The Smittybilt Overland Gen 2 is significantly less costly than other models on the market and is also a fan favorite of Jeep lovers. With hardshell roof top tents being a more attractive option for many, I wrote a buyer's guide for the cheapest hardshell RTTs if you're interested to learn more! Materials This modest design utilizes an aluminum and polyurethane sandwich-constructed base for durability, rip-stop polyester, and a waterproof polyurethane top. An aluminum tent frame and stainless steel hinges provide extra strength. However, the sandwich base is thinner than other rooftop tents, and the tent’s fabric is quite thin. Weight & Dimensions The Smittybilt Overland Gen 2 is the lightest tent on this list, weighing only 117 pounds (53 kg). It comes in two sizes: the standard size, which has a max load capacity of 660lbs (299kg), and the XL size, which has a max load of 770lbs (349 kg). Interior The two models of the Smittybilt Overland Gen 2 are the 2683 and 2583. The main difference is the 2683 features a king-size bed and sleeps three to four people, whereas the 2583 model sleeps two to three. The interior includes LED strip lights and a removable cover on the mattress, and all bedding and accessories can remain inside the tent when taken down. Weather Protection The Smittybilt tent features a waterproof, polyurethane-impregnated rip-stop polyester top shell for superior protection from rain and wind. It also has no-see-um mosquito screens on the windows, and velcro is utilized for complete waterproofing. Pros Inexpensive Waterproof polyurethane top Aluminum frame poles with stainless steel hinges Cons Thin sandwich base Thin polyester fabric Poor customer service Best Aerodynamics: Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha Jeep Wrangler owners looking for a luxurious, aerodynamic rooftop tent should opt for the Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha. This hybrid side-opening tent doesn’t require much effort when setting up, thanks to the hydraulic-assisted lift brackets. Setting up can take as little as two minutes! Additionally, the telescoping ladder makes things even more effortless. Materials The tent material is 280 G polyester-cotton rip-stop fabric. The bottom shell features a heavy-duty aluminum honeycomb design. This light, versatile, and sleep rooftop tent allows you to drive without having to take it down. The sloped shell offers minimal wind resistance. With that said, it does feature a high-profile design, but this allows overlanders to keep their bedding inside, even once closed. Weight & Dimensions The Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha weighs 176 pounds (80 kg). To mount this tent to your Jeep Wrangler, you’ll need crossbars left to right, at least 50 inches (1.27 m) apart. The crossbars must be able to hold 190+ pounds (86+ m) for proper support of the Tuff Stuff Overland Alpha. The weight capacity is 1,100 pounds (499 kg). Interior The interior sleeps up to four people and features plenty of window space for taking in those breathtaking views. Users can also use the skylight to stargaze at night. Access to the tent is via the passenger side only. The amber and white light LED fixtures are mounted on the interior and exterior of the tent. Weather Protection There are two removable window awnings for the side windows. These rain awnings zip off and on, so users can attach them quickly if the weather conditions begin to deteriorate. Additionally, there are three window openings that utilize mesh screens and window rods for extra durability. Pros Easy, quick, hydraulic-assisted setup Sloped aerodynamic shell Can store bedding inside Cons Opens on the passenger side only Heavy - 190+ pounds (86+ m) High price point Final Thoughts When heading out on an overlanding adventure, knowing that you’re safe, protected, and comfortable provides peace of mind. One of the best ways to ensure this security and comfort is by investing in a quality rooftop tent. There are several rooftop tent options available, each with its own features. By looking through this list, you should be able to quickly find one that’s right for you and your Jeep Wrangler.