The Best Types of Cars to Install a Rooftop Tent

Are you someone who enjoys adventure and the great outdoors? Do you love exploring new places and the freedom of the open road? 

 

If so, you’re probably familiar with the charm of camping under the starry night sky. Roof tents can be a real game-changer for those seeking a more comfortable and elevated camping experience. These innovative and convenient shelters allow you to turn your vehicle into a cozy, elevated haven in the wilderness.

 

However, it’s important to note that not all vehicles are equally suitable for accommodating roof tents. In this guide, we’ll delve into the best types of vehicles for installing a roof tent, ensuring that your next adventure is filled with comfort, style, and unforgettable experiences.

 

The Best Types Of Cars To Install A Rooftop Tent

• Campers and Vans

Vans and campers are ideal vehicles for mounting a rooftop tent. They offer a spacious interior for comfortable sleeping, and a rooftop tent provides additional space and the freedom to spread out. 

 

Vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or campervans like the classic VW Westfalia are excellent choices for rooftop tent camping. 

 

These versatile vehicles are equipped to support the added weight and provide a convenient platform for your outdoor adventures. 

 

With a rooftop tent on a van or camper, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – the comfort of an indoor sleeping space and the adventure of camping under the open sky.

 

 Benefits of Choosing a Van

• Ample Space: Vans offer generous interior space, providing ample room to sleep comfortably and store your camping gear. Combined with a rooftop tent, you get even more sleeping space without sacrificing the interior.

 

• Customization: Vans like the Ford Transit are often customizable, allowing you to tailor the interior to your camping needs. Add shelves, storage solutions, and other accessories to make your camping trips more convenient.

 

• Ease of Setup: Setting up a rooftop tent on a van is often easier and quicker than on some other vehicles. The van’s flat and stable roof surface simplifies the installation process, so you can start enjoying your camping experience sooner.

 

• All-Weather Comfort: Vans provide better protection from the elements than traditional tents. The enclosed space keeps you dry during rain, and the roof tent offers elevated sleeping quarters to stay above damp ground.

 

• Versatility: Vans like the Ford Transit are versatile vehicles that can be used for various purposes. When you’re not camping, they serve as reliable and practical transportation for everyday use.

 

• Convenience: With the Ford Transit or a similar van, you can store camping essentials inside the vehicle, making it easy to access your gear whenever needed.

 

• Off-roaders and SUVs

In recent years, rooftop camping has gained immense popularity as people seek the adventure of sleeping under the stars. To embark on this thrilling journey, you’ll need a capable SUV or off-roader to support the tent’s weight, provide reliable transportation, and accommodate your gear.

 

SUVs are exceptional for mounting a roof tent due to their robust and stable roofs, capable of handling the tent’s weight. Moreover, they often come with excellent off-road capabilities, making them ideal for expeditions.

 

Popular models that fit the bill include the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Explorer, and Toyota 4Runner. These SUVs offer the required strength and versatility for your rooftop camping adventures.

 

Benefits of Choosing SUVs and Off-roaders 

• Ground Clearance: SUVs have higher ground clearance than standard cars, which is advantageous for navigating uneven or off-road terrain. This feature allows you to access more remote and picturesque camping spots.

 

• Roof Strength: SUVs typically have strong and stable roofs that can reliably bear the weight of rooftop tents. This ensures safety and comfort during your camping experience.

 

• Off-Road Capability: Many SUVs and off-road vehicles are equipped with features like four-wheel drive (4×4) and all-wheel drive (AWD), making them capable of handling various challenging terrains. This capability is especially valuable for off-road expeditions.

 

• Spacious Interiors: SUVs often have roomy interiors, allowing you to store your camping equipment and personal belongings inside the vehicle. This is particularly convenient for keeping your gear secure and organized.

 

• Weather Resistance: SUVs are designed with robust weather resistance features, keeping you dry and comfortable during inclement weather conditions.

 

• Pick-Ups

If you’re a fan of pick-up trucks, you also have the option of installing a roof tent. Pick-up trucks have become increasingly popular for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine the utility of a truck with the comfort of rooftop camping.

 

Pick-ups offer ample cargo space, versatility, off-roading capabilities, ruggedness, easy access, and customization options. Notable pick-up truck models for rooftop camping include the Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevrolet Silverado.

 

Benefits of Choosing a Pick-up 

• Off-Roading Capabilities: Many pick-up trucks are designed for off-roading, making them a great choice for adventurous campers. You can explore remote and challenging terrains with robust suspension systems and 4×4 capabilities.

 

• Customization: Pick-up trucks often come with customization options. You can add accessories like bed racks and storage solutions to enhance your camping experience. Personalize your truck to suit your camping needs.

 

• Ample Cargo Space: Pick-up trucks are known for their cargo capacity. Installing a rooftop tent on a pick-up truck doesn’t mean sacrificing cargo space. You can have the best of both worlds, with plenty of room for your camping gear and essentials.

 

• Ease of Access: The accessibility of a pick-up truck bed simplifies the loading and unloading of camping gear. You won’t have to lift heavy items onto a roof rack; everything is within reach.

 

• Weather Resistance: Pick-up trucks are built to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring you remain dry and comfortable during camping trips.

 

• Station Wagons and Estate Cars

Station wagons and estate cars deserve special mention regarding rooftop tents. These vehicles offer comfort and functionality, making them well-suited for rooftop camping. Their roomy interiors and robust roof rack systems can handle the weight of rooftop tents. Some models worth considering include the Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen, and Ford Flex.

 

Benefits of Choosing a Station Wagon or Estate Car

• Ample Cabin Space: Station wagons and estate cars are known for their spacious interiors, providing comfortable sleeping and travel space. You can rest easy, knowing you have plenty of room for your camping adventure.

 

• Cargo Room: These vehicles offer generous cargo space, making storing your camping gear and luggage easy. You won’t need to sacrifice interior space for your essentials.

 

• Affordable Options: Some station wagon and estate car models are budget-friendly, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy rooftop camping.

 

• Easy Setup: Setting up a rooftop tent on station wagons and estate cars is often straightforward. The stable roof design simplifies installation, allowing you to start your camping experience sooner.

 

Conclusion

Rooftop tents have revolutionized the camping experience, providing comfort and convenience while enjoying the great outdoors. When selecting a vehicle for your next adventure, consider your needs, budget, and the type of terrain you plan to explore. 

Are you ready to take your camping experience to the next level with a rooftop tent?  Explore our extensive range of Roof Top Tents and prepare for your next camping adventure. Contact us today to get started.