Is a Rooftop Tent (RTT) Right for You? Here’s What You Need to Know!


I absolutely love my rooftop tent, but let's be real—it’s not for everyone. Before diving into the RTT life, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown that might help you make your decision:


Pros:

Quick & Easy Setup: Pop it open in under a minute, and you're ready to camp. No fumbling with stakes or struggling with poles—just pure convenience.

All-In-One Storage: Keep your bedding essentials (pillows, blankets, even your ladder) tucked inside, ready to go for the next adventure. No need to unpack and repack every time you camp.

Best Sleep While Camping Ever: Seriously, RTTs offer a level of comfort that traditional tents just can't match. The built-in mattress and elevated position will give you the best sleep while camping.

Blackout Windows: No more waking up at the crack of dawn. Enjoy uninterrupted sleep with blackout windows that keep the morning sun at bay.

Critter-Free Camping: Elevated off the ground, you’re less likely to have unwanted encounters with curious wildlife. Your tent is your safe haven.


Cons:

Pricey: Let’s not sugarcoat it—RTTs are an investment. Be ready to shell out a decent amount of cash.

Heavy Load: These tents aren’t exactly light. Your vehicle will need to handle the added weight, and you’ll need to consider how it impacts your driving.

Additional Roof Rack Needed: Most cars won’t have the roof rack required to support an RTT right out of the box. Factor in the cost and installation of a sturdy rack.

Not for Every Car: Some vehicles just aren't built for RTTs. Make sure yours is up to the task before committing.

Lower MPG: Expect your fuel efficiency to drop. The added weight and aerodynamics of an RTT can lead to more frequent gas station stops.

Extra Noise: Wind noise is another factor to consider. While driving, you might notice a bit more sound due to the RTT on top.


So, what's your verdict? Does the convenience and comfort of a rooftop tent outweigh the downsides? If you’re all about quick setups, comfy sleep, and critter-free camping, an RTT might just be your new best friend. But if the cons give you pause, it might be worth considering other options.

My Gear Setup: What I Use for My Rooftop Camping Adventures


When it comes to rooftop camping, having the right gear can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials I rely on for every adventure:

Curious about how these items perform in the wild? Keep reading for my detailed pros and cons on each one!

Gear Spotlight: Terra Firma Overland Co. Minimalist Rooftop Tent


When it comes to my RTT, I’ve found there’s a lot to love—but a few things that require some workarounds. Here’s my breakdown of the pros and cons:


Pros:

Loaded with Features: This tent comes fully equipped with all the extras you need—built-in LED lights, a shoe bag, ceiling storage pockets, and cross bars. No need to splurge on add-ons later!

Flexible Ladder Placement: You can attach the ladder to any side of the tent, giving you easy access no matter how you’re parked.

Top-Notch Quality: Every component feels premium, from the materials to the zippers. You know this tent is built to last.

Sleek Design: It’s surprisingly low-profile, so it won’t add too much height to your vehicle. Perfect for keeping your car’s aerodynamics in check.


Cons:

No Installation Instructions: Setting up the tent on your roof rack might be a bit tricky—there aren’t any clear instructions, so expect some trial and error.

Hefty Weight: At nearly 200 pounds, this tent isn’t exactly lightweight. You’ll need a sturdy roof rack and possibly a friend to help with installation (maybe two if you're short like I am).


My Adjustments:

To make life easier, I added S-biners to the bungee cords. This little hack lets me use the tent without having to unzip the entire thing just to remove the bungee and use the tent—saving time and hassle on every trip!


*The tent features a bungee cord that wraps around the middle, pulling the fabric inward as you close it. This clever design makes packing up the tent much easier by keeping the fabric neatly tucked away.

Gear Spotlight: iKamper HC Steps


When it comes to rooftop tent steps, these have been a game-changer for both me and my dogs. However, like any piece of gear, they have their ups and downs. Here’s my take:


Pros:

Dog-Friendly: These steps make it easy for your dogs to climb into the RTT on their own—no more heavy lifting required. It’s a win-win for you and your furry friends!

Sturdy Build: The solid construction gives you confidence with every step. You can trust these steps to hold up.

Quality Materials: Built to withstand the wear and tear of all your adventures, these steps are made to last.


Cons:

Pricey: These steps alone come in at $159 before taxes and shipping, making them an investment on top of an already pricey setup when you factor in the tent and roof rack.

Hard to Find: These steps are often sold out, so if you find them in stock, act fast!

Awkward Storage Fit: One downside is that the ladder doesn’t fit into the carry bag with the steps attached, which can make storing them a bit of a hassle.

Gear Spotlight: Prinsu Toyota 4Runner Prinsu Roof Rack Full Non-Drill | 2010-2024


When it comes to roof racks, this one checks a lot of boxes. But like any gear, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s what I’ve found:


Pros:

Top-Quality Build: This rack is built to last. The durable construction ensures it can handle the toughest adventures.

Aerodynamic Design: Designed to cut through the wind with ease, this rack helps minimize drag and noise while driving.

Impressive Load Capacity: With a 600-pound dynamic load capacity and 1,000 pounds static, it’s perfect for heavy gear and a fully loaded RTT setup.

Factory Mounts: No drilling is required! It uses your car’s factory mounts, making installation much simpler and cleaner.

Easy Installation: Overall, setup is straightforward, so you won’t be spending all day on the install.


Cons:

Limited Access: To attach larger items, you’ll need to remove the crossbars. There’s also not enough space to attach the RTT without taking them off first, which can be a hassle.

Pricey: While it’s definitely an investment, the quality and performance you get make it worth the cost. It is also comparative to similar roof racks.

Pro Tip: Avoid the Whistle! 


When attaching your RTT to your roof rack, it's crucial to eliminate any small gaps—these gaps can cause annoying whistling noises while you drive.


To prevent this, adjust the position of your tent forward to minimize gaps as much as possible. It might take a bit of trial and error to find the perfect fit for your tent and roof rack combination, but it's definitely worth it for a quieter, more peaceful ride!

In summary, a rooftop tent can significantly enhance your camping experience with its convenience, comfort, and versatility. While there are a few considerations to keep in mind—like the initial investment and the occasional need for adjustment—the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks. With the right setup and a bit of fine-tuning, you’ll be enjoying many memorable adventures with your RTT. Here’s to countless nights under the stars and effortless mornings on the road!