Roof-Top Tents: A Buyer’s Guide

Roof-top tents are a new, popular, and innovative way to camp.

These tents attach directly to your vehicle’s roof-top and can be assembled by one person in less than five minutes.

They offer a simple solution for anglers looking to go deep into the woods on their next fishing vacation. However, there are some things you should know before making this purchase:

Cost

Roof-top tents range anywhere from $300-$500 depending on how many people sleep comfortably inside them and what additional features they have (e.g., solar panels). While not incredibly expensive upfront, these costs will add up over time, especially if you plan to use them multiple times per year.

Size

Often, a roof-top tent will take up almost the entire width of your vehicle’s roof-top. This means you’ll have to measure beforehand and plan for enough space. Thus, interference with other things in your car, such as fishing poles or kayaks, will be avoided. Otherwise, they risk damage or being removed by strong winds. Why? Because there are no stakes in place at all times to hold them down securely against the wind.

Protection From Rain And Snow

Roof-top tents aren’t waterproof like traditional camping gear. They are typically made of a material that can withstand wetness with no issues. Instead, these tents protect mainly against the sun and provide shade during hot days.

However, they offer little protection if it is raining or snowing. This means it’s essential to plan accordingly and be prepared for rain by carrying extra tarps, ropes, and stakes with you on your trip to get the most out of this outdoor adventure.

Storage

Roof-top tents can’t store anything inside them at all. Therefore, they’re mounted onto a vehicle roof where space permits. If not attached to a car, these are usually carried around as backpacks while being pulled behind a person walking (or running).

So, before purchasing, make sure there’s enough room on top of your vehicle for storing other items such as fishing poles and kayaks, so nothing falls off when driving down the highway.

Durability

Roof-top tents are more durable than a typical tent and can withstand strong winds better. No wonder they are favored by those who want to fish in faraway places but don’t have the time or resources to set up a traditional camping site. However, these tents do not last long because of their material (which won’t protect against rain).

Unlike traditional ones that could patch holes because of heavy wear from constant use over the years, they cannot be repaired. So before purchasing, make sure you know how often you plan on using it so that there’s enough longevity for your investment!

There are many benefits associated with roof-top tents:

• You can take it anywhere, even to the most remote places where there’s no established campsite.
• This is a workable option for those who only fish and don’t want to invest in expensive camping gear that they may use.
• And, if you’re going on an overnight fishing trip with friends or family, roof-top tents allow everyone to sleep. Why? Because each person has their own space. Unlike traditional two-person tents, which are often too cramped and uncomfortable for adults sleeping side by side.

On the side, to install a roof top tent for Toyota 4runner, remove any roof rack accessories before placing them onto vehicle roof racks with arms or an aftermarket roof rack system. Choose either front-pointing straps (aka full ratchet) for the installation of smaller roof-top tents alone. Use half ratchets to install larger models such as those designed for two people who can be used solo.

Final Thoughts

Roof-top tents can be used anywhere with no established campsite (e.g., remote areas). They’re also workable options for those who only fish occasionally because they don’t want to invest in expensive camping gear that may get little use. But before purchasing this product, make sure there’s enough space on top of your vehicle so nothing falls off when driving down the highway.

Plus, they offer no protection against rain, so if you plan on using it during the rainy season, then have tarps, ropes, and stakes with you at all times. These tents do not last as long because of their material, so they are best for occasional use or just a few days, maximum.