When it comes to adventure, camping has long been a favored pursuit of nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. But if you're looking to elevate your outdoor experience, quite literally, then rooftop camping might be the perfect solution. The allure of spending the night under the stars, perched high above the ground, brings a whole new dimension to your outdoor escapades.
In this blog post, we're delving into the exciting world of rooftop camping and exploring the top rooftop camping tent types that you should consider for your next adventure. Whether you're drawn to the rugged terrain of the wilderness or the urban allure of city skylines, these innovative rooftop tents can transform your camping experience, offering both convenience and breathtaking views that will leave you yearning for your next expedition.
Rooftop tents come in many flavors depending on what your camping needs and vehicle capabilities are. Read on to learn more about the different options you have to choose from.
Top Rooftop Camping Tent Types
Pop-Up Tents
This style of tent sits above the roof rack of the car and pops up on that platform similar to how a pop-up camper would. These tents generally come in a hard-case which is great for more rugged adventures, but they usually only fit 1-2 people.
Fold-Out Tents
These tents are similar to the pop-ups, but instead of rising straight up, they will unfold to double the size of the floor-space. These tents most resemble a traditional tent, in that they come with a rain-fly and static poles you’ll need to raise and secure. These are great for larger vehicles, and they can usually accommodate 3-4 people.
Trailer Tents
Trailer tents are typically reserved for pickup trucks with an open bed. These tents cover the bed of the truck, using it as the floor/base for the tent. They come in many sizes and can serve as a large shelter to protect you from the elements while hanging by the fire, or simply as a tent to sleep in. These tents are slightly easier to store as they don’t require attachment to the roof, but they are also slightly more challenging to set up, as they will have more removable pieces during setup and breakdown.
Awning Tents
This style of tent is most similar to the fold-out style, however they also come equipped with a larger footprint, providing an awning or additional coverage that extends well beyond your vehicle. These tents are typically larger and provide more protection from the elements, giving you a great space to hang out near your bed at the campsite.
Car Shelters
These tents are very closely related to the awning tent, but they provide a slightly different sleeping arrangement, in that they use the natural size of your van or SUV to position a shelter next to your car. These can be reserved specifically for having protection at the campsite, giving you shelter and shade, however they can also be utilized for a lightweight camping set up if you still want to sleep on the ground and have plenty of room. Most times they’ll use the trunk as an extension of the natural room in the car, giving you direct access to the items in your vehicle.
Elevate your adventure with a rooftop camping tent
As we wrap up this exploration of top rooftop camping tent types, it's evident that these ingenious shelters are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. From pop-up tents to awning tents, there's a rooftop tent to suit every style of adventure.
As you plan your next journey, consider the factors that matter most to you, from ease of setup to the destinations you wish to explore, and make an informed choice that aligns with your unique preferences. So, gear up, hit the road, and let the world of rooftop camping unlock a world of possibilities for your next unforgettable adventure. And if you don't want to buy one just yet, consider renting a rooftop tent from the GeerGarage community!