From bush tracks to beach camps its undeniable the roof top tent has taken over as the sleeping arrangement of choice for 4X4ers. There’s second hand $200 offerings ratchet strapped high above P-platers first cars, and high-end insulated offerings with LED lighting and charging points clamped firmly to the lightweight alloy rack of brand new 4X4s. They’re universal from hardcore weekend rigs to outback proven tourers, and there’s as much variety in the tents themselves as the rigs you can bolt them to.
Sound great? Yeah, they kind of are. But before you dive in and slap one on your rig, there’s a bit to consider. The market’s packed with options, and while choice is a good thing, it can also leave you scratching your head. That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying a rooftop tent, so by the time you’ve finished reading, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision and hit the road with confidence.
WHAT IS A ROOFTOP TENT?
First off, let’s cover the basics. A rooftop tent is exactly what it sounds like, a tent that mounts to the roof of your 4X4, or beat up hatchback if you’re a backpacker “finding yourself” in the Aussie Outback. Unlike your standard ground tents that require flat, even ground (which we all know isn’t always easy to find in the bush), a rooftop tent is level if your 4X4 is, even if that means with one wheel parked up on a stack of Exitrax. They’re generally easier to set up, keep you off the cold, hard ground, and can offer some pretty epic views come morning.
These tents usually fold out from a hard or soft-shell base and come with a built-in mattress, ladder, and various other bits and bobs to make life easier. When you’re not using it, it packs down into a relatively compact unit that sits on your roof rack.
WHY ARE THEY SO POPULAR?
Rooftop tents have really taken off in recent years, and for good reason. Here are a few of the main reasons people are ditching the swag and moving up in the world, literally.
Convenience: Rooftop tents are quick and easy to set up and pack away. No more fiddling with tent poles and pegs in the dark after a long day’s drive. Just pop the tent open, climb up, and you’re good to go.
Versatility: These tents let you camp just about anywhere your vehicle can go—whether that’s deep in the bush, by the beach, or even on the side of the road. No need to worry about finding a flat, dry spot on the ground.
Comfort: Built-in mattresses mean you’ll get a decent night’s sleep, and being off the ground keeps you warmer and drier, especially during wet seasons. Plus, you’re safe from critters that might be interested in sharing your sleeping bag.
Adventure Ready: Got a 4×4? Then a rooftop tent is your new best mate. They’re built for rough and rugged conditions, making them ideal for overlanding and off-roading.
Safety: Being elevated gives you an extra layer of security, especially if you’re in areas where wildlife might be a concern. Snakes and spiders can’t get to you as easily, and you’re less likely to get flooded out during a heavy downpour.
Scenic Views: Ever wanted to wake up to a sunrise over the outback or look out over the ocean first thing in the morning? With a rooftop tent, that’s your everyday reality.
SO, WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?
So, you’re sold on the idea of a rooftop tent. But now comes the hard part, choosing the right one. There are a few key factors to consider to make sure you’re getting the best tent for your needs.
Vehicle Compatibility
Before you even start looking at tents, you need to check your vehicle’s roof load rating, both dynamic (while driving) and static (while stationary). Rooftop tents aren’t light, and the last thing you want is to overload your roof and damage your vehicle. Most 4X4s can handle the weight but double-check the specs for peace of mind.
Next, make sure your roof racks are up to the task. We’re talking sturdy, reliable roof racks with a minimum load rating of 100kg.
Tent Size
Rooftop tents come in all shapes and sizes. You’ll need to pick one that suits your needs. Think about how many people will be using the tent, most are designed for 2-3 people, but there are larger options available. You also need to consider the size of your vehicle’s roof and the length of your roof racks.
Tent Design and Layout
Design and layout can make or break your camping experience. Soft-shell roof top tents were the go-to a few years back and were essentially what they said on the box, a tent that’s on your roof. Typically, these were more affordable at the expense of comfort and longer setup and pack up times. They’re also typically pretty feature poor, don’t expect to plug your phone in to charge overnight.
Hard-shell roof top tents are definitely the new hotness these days and are what you’ll find on the Mr 4X4 fleet. They provide insulated roofs so better protection from the elements, more comfortable bedding, and quicker setup times. Spec things right up like the Penthouse from Bushwakka and these tents can include solar power, internal lighting, charging, even internal fans for those hot nights.
Also, consider the tent’s internal layout, do you want plenty of windows for airflow and views? Does the tent have enough internal storage for your essentials? Are there mounting options if you want to throw a kayak or mountain bike on top.
Hard Shell Pros:
– More durable and weather-resistant
– Easier and faster to set up
– Better aerodynamics, meaning less drag and better fuel efficiency
– You can leave your bedding inside when packed down
– Often more stylish (if that matters to you)
Soft Shell Pros:
– Lighter weight, so easier on your roof and fuel economy
– More affordable
– Packs down smaller, freeing up roof space for other gear
– Generally roomier inside
Your choice will depend on your budget, your vehicle’s capabilities, and your personal preferences. If you’re planning on doing a lot of off-roading and don’t mind spending a bit more, a hard shell is the way to go. But if you’re after something lighter and cheaper, a soft shell could be your best bet.
Material Quality and Durability
Not all tents are created equal, and the materials used can vary widely. Look for tents made from durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant fabrics like ripstop polyester, nylon, or canvas. These materials will hold up better in harsh Australian conditions and keep you dry when the weather turns sour.
Pay attention to the hardware, too. High-quality zips, hinges, and mounting brackets will ensure your tent stays secure and lasts for years to come.
Accessories and Add-Ons
Finally, think about what extras you might want down the line. Some tents come with the option to add annexes, awnings, or additional rooms, which can be great if you’re camping with family or just want a bit more space. You might also want to look at options for solar panels, roof racks, or other gear that can be mounted on top of your tent.
SO, WHAT’S IT GOING TO BE?
By now, you should have a pretty good idea of what to look for in a roof top tent. Whether you’re planning to tackle some of Australia’s most remote tracks in style, or just want a comfortable, convenient way to camp on the weekend, there’s a rooftop tent out there with your name on it.
Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between size, weight, and features that suit your needs and your rig. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. After all, this is a big investment, and you want to make sure you get it right.
