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Home » Roof Tent Camping: A Step-by-Step Guide

Roof Tent Camping: A Step-by-Step Guide

You’re thinking of buying an option for a roof tent for your car? This article we’re going to discuss the advantages and drawbacks of acquiring an roof tent for your vehicle. It is always advisable to conduct the necessary research prior to buying and we hope that this article can help you decide whether a roof tent is suitable for your camping trips within the UK or elsewhere.

What are the benefits of a tent on the roof?

1. Camp wherever you want

There’s no grass to be cut regardless of whether you’re on a mountain path or sand dunes, or in the Tesco car park A roof tent lets you to camp almost everywhere.

2. Take a trip anyplace

It’s much easier to travel with the roof tent. You can go to places you only dream of using the trailer trailers motorhomes, campervans, and caravans particularly if you own the 4×4.

3. Fast set-up and tear down

The installation of a roof tent is a breeze and fits the majority of vehicles that meet a couple of conditions. It is extremely easy to set up and takes only just a few minutes. You’ll become the envy of your typical camping buddies once you’re all set and sipping an ice cold glass of wine or a cold drink.

4. Tough

Roof tents are made of an extremely durable canvas that is designed to withstand the elements and nature’s elements. The canvas is waterproof and mold and UV resistant. A sturdy aluminium support structure is the most durable and long-lasting tent.

5. Comfort

A quality rooftop tent should include mesh windows and doors to provide cooling, perfect for an extremely hot summer’s day or at night. A comfortable high-density foam mattress is recommended and some tents come with windows that offer a view of the sky for stargazing at night, as well as extra light during daytime.

6. Beasts and bugs

The fact that you are on the roof means that you’re away from insects such as scorpions and spiders. It is not a good idea to have creatures crawling about inside your sleeping bag or tent! The wildlife in the UK is not an issue, but if you are in a foreign country that has bears, snakes, tigers or wolves. You will be well out of their reach from a rooftop tent.

7. View

You’ll have your private viewing platform that offers stunning views you won’t find by using tents that are on the ground. The panorama of the lake, ocean, mountains, or a river is always better higher up. You’ll never be camping in the same spot again.

8. Value

In comparison to the cost of motorhome, campervan or trailer tent, a roof tent can be much less expensive to purchase and maintain.

Are there any disadvantages for a tent that is pitched?

1. Wind

The fact that you are higher implies that in areas with windy weather conditions, a roof tent is susceptible to being tossed around. But, they’re designed to withstand the force of wind and the rumbling will make you uncomfortable or make you go to sleep.

2. Economy of fuel

The additional load and the wind drag from the roof tent on your vehicle will cause the consumption of fuel, which means that your fuel consumption will be decreased. This could result in the removal of the roof tent during times in which you don’t plan to use it.

3. Day trip

If you’re planning to go off to explore for the day and want to go out, you should fold your roof tent. It’s a pain when contrasted with a standard ground tent, where you can simply leave it in place while you’re exploring the area. One option is to take bikes with you to allow you to explore the area without the need for a vehicle. If you have to drive, you could put the rooftop tent in a fold and put your bed inside for convenience.

4. Toilet trips

We’ve all been there: an exhausted trip into the toilet in the late at night. Going to the bottom of a ladder and then back up can be a bit more difficult than standing in a tent, but it’s not that difficult. Another alternative could be keeping a water bottle close by, as one of my rooftop friends told me!

5. Aren’t able to stand

So, unless you’re below 4 feet tall, you’re not able to be seated in a roof tent. But, some roof tents include an annex which means that you can sit up or cook, eat and much more.

What’s the verdict?

Ok, so we could be biased, but we’ve attempted to be as fair as we can regarding the advantages and disadvantages of the roof tent. The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages when compared to ground tents, or the price of a motorhome or campervan. Also, don’t overlook the roof tent could be affixed to an RV if additional space is required, or on a trailer if you plan to use your motorhome for day-trips.