Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about roof top tents

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Use the filters on our Browse page to narrow down options by:

  • Price range - Set your budget with our slider
  • Sleeping capacity - 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5+ people
  • Tent type - Hard-shell or soft-shell
  • Tent style - Clamshell, pop-up, or fold-out
  • Weight - Important for smaller vehicles
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  3. View specifications in an easy-to-read comparison table
  4. Differences are highlighted to help you spot key variations
  5. Remove tents and swap in alternatives until you find your top choice

The comparison tool works on mobile too—just swipe to scroll through specifications.

We display the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) as listed on official brand websites. Actual prices may vary by retailer and region. Some models may be available at lower prices during sales or through authorized dealers.

Prices are updated regularly, but we recommend verifying current pricing on the manufacturer's website before purchasing.

No, we're an independent comparison database. We don't sell tents or handle transactions. When you click "Where to Buy" or "Check Price," you'll be directed to the manufacturer's official website where you can purchase directly or find authorized dealers.

We may earn a small affiliate commission on some purchases, which helps us maintain this free resource.

We update the database regularly:

  • New models are added as manufacturers release them
  • Prices are checked and updated monthly
  • Specifications are verified against manufacturer websites quarterly
  • Discontinued models are marked but kept in the database for reference

Last database update: 2025-11-30

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About Roof Top Tents

A roof top tent (RTT) is a tent that mounts to the roof rack of your vehicle. It provides an elevated sleeping platform with a built-in mattress, ladder, and weather protection. When not in use, it folds closed for aerodynamic transport.

RTTs eliminate the need to find level ground, set up poles, or worry about rocks and critters. Setup typically takes 30 seconds to 3 minutes depending on the design.

Neither is universally "better"—it depends on your priorities:

Hard-shell tents:

  • ✅ Faster setup (30-90 seconds)
  • ✅ More aerodynamic when closed
  • ✅ Better fuel economy when traveling
  • ✅ Can store bedding inside when closed
  • ❌ More expensive ($2,500-$5,000+)
  • ❌ Heavier (130-200+ lbs)

Soft-shell tents:

  • ✅ More affordable ($1,200-$3,000)
  • ✅ Lighter weight (90-145 lbs)
  • ✅ Often larger sleeping area for the footprint
  • ❌ Slower setup (2-5 minutes)
  • ❌ Must pack bedding separately
  • ❌ Less aerodynamic (taller when closed)

Clamshell (Hard-shell)

Opens like a clamshell with gas struts. Most popular hard-shell design. Setup: 30-60 seconds.

Wedge (Hard-shell)

Streamlined, angled profile that opens on one side. Ultra-compact when closed (4-6 inches tall), excellent aerodynamics. Setup: 30-60 seconds.

Wedge Expandable (Hard-shell)

Wedge design with expansion mechanisms (scissor-hinge or pop-out) that add 15-30% more interior space. Combines aerodynamics with increased comfort. Setup: 60-90 seconds.

Pop-up (Hard-shell)

Lifts straight up with expanding sides. Provides 360° views. Setup: 30-60 seconds.

Fold-out (Hard-shell & Soft-shell)

Extends outward from the base, often doubling sleeping area. Hard-shell versions use gas struts; soft-shell versions fold manually. Setup: 60 seconds (hard-shell) to 3-5 minutes (soft-shell).

Check your vehicle's dynamic roof load capacity (weight limit while driving) in your owner's manual. Most vehicles support 150-200 lbs dynamic, though some SUVs and trucks can handle more.

Note: Static roof load capacity (weight limit when parked) is typically 3-4x higher, so weight while camping isn't usually a concern.

Example calculations:

  • Tent weight: 150 lbs
  • 2 adults in tent: 300 lbs
  • Dynamic load needed: 150 lbs ✅
  • Static load when parked: 450 lbs ✅ (most vehicles support 600+ lbs static)

Yes, you'll need a roof rack system that can support the weight of your tent plus occupants (dynamic load while driving).

Options:

  • Crossbars - Basic rails (Thule, Yakima, Rhino-Rack). Works for most RTTs.
  • Platform racks - Flat platforms (Front Runner, Prinsu). Better weight distribution.
  • Bed racks (trucks) - Mounts over truck bed. Popular for overlanding.

Make sure your rack's weight capacity matches or exceeds your tent's total weight when occupied.

Hard-shell tents: Usually yes. Most hard-shells can close with bedding inside, though this adds weight and may affect aerodynamics slightly.

Soft-shell tents: No. You'll need to pack bedding separately as the tent compresses when closed.

Check manufacturer guidelines—some hard-shells have weight limits for stored bedding.

Hard-shell tents:

  • Clamshell: 30-60 seconds
  • Pop-up: 30-60 seconds
  • Fold-out: 60-90 seconds

Soft-shell tents:

  • Modern designs: 2-3 minutes
  • Traditional designs: 3-5 minutes

With practice, setup gets faster. First-time setup may take longer as you learn the process.

Hard-shell tents are more aerodynamic and have less impact on fuel economy than soft-shells.

Expected MPG impact:

  • Hard-shell clamshell: 1-3 MPG decrease
  • Hard-shell pop-up: 2-4 MPG decrease
  • Soft-shell: 3-5 MPG decrease

Actual impact varies by vehicle, driving speed, and tent size. Highway driving at 70+ mph shows the most noticeable difference.

Yes, but it depends on the tent's insulation and your comfort tolerance.

Look for:

  • Thick canvas (280-320 GSM poly-cotton)
  • Double-wall construction
  • Rainfly/weather covers
  • Ability to add insulation

Many campers use portable heaters (properly ventilated) or sleep in 0°F sleeping bags for winter camping. Some tents offer optional insulated liners.

Sleeping capacity ratings:

  • 2-person: Typically 50-56" wide (similar to full/double bed)
  • 3-person: 56-60" wide (approaching queen size)
  • 4-person: 70-85" wide (king size or larger)

Keep in mind:

  • Ratings assume cozy sleeping (like sharing a bed)
  • Larger adults may prefer the next size up
  • Include kids in your count—a "4-person" tent might fit 2 adults + 2 small children comfortably

An annex (also called a vestibule or room) attaches to your ladder area and creates extra space underneath the tent.

Great for:

  • Changing room / privacy
  • Gear storage out of weather
  • Cooking area (with proper ventilation)
  • Extra sleeping space (ground level)

Most annexes are sold separately ($200-$500). Not essential but very useful for extended trips or families.

All RTTs are designed for rain, but quality varies:

Waterproof ratings:

  • 1,500mm: Light rain protection
  • 3,000mm: Heavy rain protection (most tents)
  • 5,000mm+: Extreme weather (rare, unnecessary for most)

Key features:

  • Rainfly coverage (full vs partial)
  • Sealed seams
  • Waterproof zipper covers
  • Drainage design

Poly-cotton canvas (most common) breathes better than pure polyester and resists condensation.

After each trip:

  • Open tent fully to air out
  • Wipe down any dirt or moisture
  • Never pack wet (risk of mold)

Monthly (if used often):

  • Check ladder bolts and hardware
  • Inspect canvas for tears or wear
  • Clean zippers and lubricate if sticky

Annually:

  • Deep clean canvas with mild soap
  • Re-waterproof fabric if needed
  • Check gas struts (hard-shells) for proper tension
  • Inspect mattress for compression or damage

Storage:

  • Store in dry, ventilated area
  • Slightly crack open to prevent mildew
  • OR remove tent and store indoors if possible

Most people can install an RTT with a helper (it's a two-person job due to weight).

What you'll need:

  • Friend to help lift (tents weigh 90-200+ lbs)
  • Basic tools (wrenches, typically included)
  • 30-60 minutes

Installation steps:

  1. Mount roof rack to vehicle (if not already installed)
  2. Position tent on rack with helper
  3. Align mounting hardware
  4. Tighten bolts to manufacturer specs
  5. Test setup on the ground before your first trip

Many people pay shops $100-200 for professional installation if uncomfortable doing it themselves.

RTTs are worth it if you:

  • ✅ Camp frequently (10+ times per year)
  • ✅ Value quick setup and packdown
  • ✅ Camp in areas with rough/wet ground
  • ✅ Want a consistent, comfortable sleeping setup
  • ✅ Have a vehicle with adequate roof capacity
  • ✅ Don't mind the upfront investment ($1,500-$4,500)

They may not be worth it if you:

  • ❌ Camp only 1-2 times per year
  • ❌ Primarily camp at established campgrounds with flat pads
  • ❌ Need ultra-lightweight gear for backpacking
  • ❌ Drive a small car with low roof capacity
  • ❌ Want maximum budget flexibility

For weekend warriors and overlanders, RTTs offer unmatched convenience.

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