How to Pick Out a Rooftop Tent: Your Guide to Elevated Camping – Artemis Overland Hardware

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How to Pick Out a Rooftop Tent: Your Guide to Elevated Camping

How to Pick Out a Rooftop Tent: Your Guide to Elevated Camping

by Reed Hopper
Rooftop tents (RTTs) have surged in popularity among outdoor enthusiasts, blending the rugged appeal of camping with the comfort of an elevated sleep setup. Mounted on your vehicle’s roof rack, they offer a quick, cozy escape into nature—perfect for overlanding, weekend getaways, or cross-country adventures. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a practical guide to picking out a rooftop tent that suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Assess Your Vehicle Compatibility
Before diving into tent features, ensure your vehicle can handle an RTT. Check your roof rack’s dynamic weight capacity (how much it can support while driving) and static capacity (how much it can hold when parked). Most rooftop tents weigh between 100-200 pounds, and you’ll need a rack rated for at least that weight dynamically—plus extra for occupants and gear statically. SUVs, trucks, and Jeeps are popular choices, but even some sedans with beefy aftermarket racks can work. Measure your roof space too; a compact car might only fit a slim, two-person model.

2. Decide on Size and Capacity
How many people will be sleeping in the tent? RTTs typically range from solo models to family-sized options sleeping four or more. A two-person tent (around 48-56 inches wide) is standard for couples, while larger ones (70+ inches) accommodate kids or extra gear. Consider interior height too—some tents are low-profile for better aerodynamics, while others offer more headroom for sitting up. Think about your sleeping style: if you sprawl out, go bigger than you think you need.

3. Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell
RTTs come in two main designs, each with trade-offs:
  • Hard Shell: These have a solid roof (often fiberglass or aluminum) and fold out with minimal setup—sometimes in under a minute. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and often more aerodynamic, but they’re heavier (130-200 lbs) and pricier ($2,000-$4,000+). Great for frequent campers who value speed and longevity.
  • Soft Shell: Made of canvas or nylon, these fold out like traditional tents and are lighter (90-150 lbs) and more affordable ($800-$2,000). They offer more space and often include awnings, but setup takes longer, and they’re less insulated. Ideal for occasional adventurers or those on a budget.
Pick based on how often you’ll camp, your storage space, and how much you hate wrestling with poles in the wind.

4. Consider Weather and Seasonality
Where and when will you camp? For mild climates, a lightweight soft-shell tent with basic waterproofing (1,500mm-3,000mm rating) might suffice. If you’re braving rain, snow, or high winds, look for a hard-shell model or a soft-shell with a higher waterproof rating, sturdy poles, and a rainfly. Insulation matters too—some tents include padded mattresses or thermal liners for cold nights, while others prioritize ventilation with mesh windows for hot summers. Check zippers and seams; quality construction keeps the elements out.

5. Ease of Setup and Portability
Time is precious in the wild. Hard-shell tents often pop up with gas struts, while soft-shells require unfolding and securing guy lines—think 5-15 minutes total. Test your patience level: if you dread setup after a long drive, lean toward simpler designs. Also, consider storage. Can you leave the tent on your vehicle year-round, or will you need to remove it? Soft-shells fold flatter but take effort to stow; hard-shells stay bulky but are low-maintenance.

6. Look at Mattress Comfort
A good night’s sleep makes or breaks a trip. Most RTTs come with built-in foam mattresses (1-3 inches thick), but quality varies. High-density foam offers better support than thin padding—crucial if you’re camping multiple nights. Some models let you upgrade to memory foam or add a topper. Check size too; a cramped mattress defeats the purpose of sleeping off the ground, away from rocks and critters.

7. Extra Features and Accessories
The little things can elevate your experience. Look for:
  • Annexes: An attachable room below the tent for changing, storage, or extra sleepers.
  • Awnings: Built-in shade or rain cover for lounging outside.
  • Ladders: Adjustable, sturdy ones for easy access (check weight rating).
  • Storage: Internal pockets or gear lofts for organization.
  • Mounting Hardware: Universal kits fit most racks, but confirm compatibility.
These add cost, so prioritize what matches your camping style—minimalist or fully decked out.

8. Set a Budget
RTTs range from budget-friendly ($1,000-$2,000) to premium ($3,000+). Entry-level soft-shells work fine for casual use, while high-end hard-shells suit overlanders or frequent campers. Factor in rack upgrades if your vehicle needs them—those can add $300-$800. Used tents are an option, but inspect for wear on fabric, zippers, and poles.

9. Research Brands and Reviews
Trusted brands like Roofnest, Overland Vehicle Systems, and ARB 4x4 offer proven designs, but smaller companies can surprise with quality too. Read user reviews for real-world insights on durability, weather performance, and setup quirks. Watch setup videos to gauge ease, and if possible, see one in person at an outdoor store or camping expo.

10. Test Your Priorities
Ask yourself: Is speed more important than space? Durability over cost? Comfort over portability? A weekend warrior might love a lightweight soft-shell, while a full-time nomad might splurge on a rugged hard-shell with all the trimmings. Match the tent to your adventure goals.


Picking a rooftop tent is about balancing practicality with your outdoor dreams. Start with your vehicle, narrow down size and style, and weigh the features that matter most. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the desert or stargazing in the mountains, the right RTT can turn your rig into a home on wheels. So, take your time, do your homework, and get ready to camp higher—literally and figuratively—than ever before.
by Reed Hopper

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