A Quick Guide to Roof Tents
A Roof Tent is a sleeping pod that attaches to the roof of any vehicle. Learn how to start your Roof Tent journey with our 4-step guide.
Step 1. Get roof bars
You can get roof bars for any vehicle, even if there are no obvious fixing points or rails.
They're super easy to install and come with clear instructions.
It’s a good idea to buy your roof tent and roof bars at the same time, so you can install them in one go.
Step 2. Check roof load limit
Every vehicle has a dynamic roof load limit, i.e. how much weight can be put on the roof whilst driving. You can usually find this in your vehicle manual.
Your roof load limit must be greater than, or equal to the weight of the roof tent.
A dynamic roof load limit of 50kgs or more will be compatible with most 2-person, soft top tents. Lots of cars have a limit of 75kg or higher, so will work with all most hard top or larger models.
What about the about the added weight of people inside?
When a car is stationary (the only time people are inside), the roof can take 5x the dynamic roof load limit, so can easily handle the weight of several people too.
Step 3. Choose your Roof Tent
Once you know your roof load limit, you can compare this against the weight of each roof tent model to work out which ones will work with your car.
Then, compare the features of each model to see which one best suits your needs.
Once you've chosen your roof tent, choose any accessories to build your perfect adventure package.
If you're still in doubt, drop us a line for personal advice.
Step 4. Delivery and Intallation
Your roof tent will be delivered by our 2-person service, on the date of your choice. Installation is straightforward and takes 20-30 minutes. Everything you need comes in the box alongside clear instructions.
Alternatively, add an installation to your basket when choosing your tent and book a slot with us. Simply arrive, leave the car with us for 30-90 minutes whilst your tent is professionally installed for you and drive off on your roof tent adventure!
FAQs
Is a roof tent easy to install?
Yes, a roof tent is really easy to install and should take no longer than 30 minutes in most cases. You will need an extra pair of hands to help lift it onto your roof bars, but after that, it’s just a case of sliding in the fixing brackets and tightening 8 nuts.
Contact us if you need any help with installation or to book your slot for us to do it for you.
Will a roof tent work with my car?
There is a roof tent model for almost any vehicle, even small cars. You just need to get roof bars, which are available for every vehicle, and check your vehicle roof load limit to see which roof tent models are compatible.
If you’re struggling, we are experts in roof tents. You can contact us for help with any of the above.
How do I choose the right roof tent for me?
Take a look at the product pages to get a real flavour for each model.
Facebook Communities are also a good place to explore other people's setups and see what takes your fancy.
If you want expert advice, just speak with our specialists, who will be more than happy to help you choose your roof tent.
Can I fit a roof tent to a roof rack, instead of bars?
You can fit a roof tent to a roof rack. We do not list these individually, but are able to supply ARB and Front Runner racks alongside your tent.
Some rack installations will require addiitonal feet for the tent to sit on, which we are happy to advise on. Just get in touch to discuss.
Will a roof tent work on a small car?
Yes absolutely, a roof tent will work with most small cars.
You just need to find out your vehicle roof load limit to understand what models are compatible.
Sometimes for very small cars, models such as the TentBox GO, Lite or Tuff Trek Ultralite are the only options. However, our larger roof tent models are also suited to a lot of smaller cars.
If you need help finding out which models are compatible with you car, contact our team.
Will a roof tent work on a van/truck?
Yes, putting a roof tent on a van/truck is a popular option. A roof tent makes a great addition to a van or even a campervan (as an extra bedroom).
The easiest way to install one on a truck is over the front cab, as roof bars are easier to find and install. However, some people also attach them to the back cab - you just need to find suitable cross bars and/or bed top, which we can help with.
Can I install a roof tent on a trailer?
Lots of people install a roof tent on a trailer, we even have two of our demonstration tents trailer mounted.
If you want mount your roof tent on a trailer, you will just need to make sure your trailer has suitable load ratings and cross bars to mount it to.
Trailers can be a great option for a roof tent because they can be unhooked easily and left at camp or stored in a garage. They also provide extra space for carrying gear and camping equipment.
What are the benefits of a roof tent?
Despite the name, a roof tent is more of a sleeping pod than a tent, and it’s just one step away from a campervan. You can sleep anywhere you can park your car, including on hard surfaces like car parks or driveways, and don’t need to look for a flat grassy pitch.
Being high off the ground makes not only for amazing elevated views from the windows but also means you are well away from the cold, wet mud and creepy crawlies. The natural air barrier between the roof tent and the car roof acts as an insulation barrier and means you stay warmer as the heat is not sucked into the ground.
After the initial investment, it’s a super cost-effective way to travel as there are tons of free places to park up for the night, and campsites are far cheaper than hotels.
Does a roof tent take long to set up?
They are also super quick to set up and come fitted with a mattress; depending on the model you choose, you can also leave your bedding laid out inside when driving so that it’s already made for you when you pop it open.
Do I have to remove my roof tent for winter?
You can leave a roof tent on your car all year round, which means you are ready for spontaneous adventures at the drop of a hat. Whether that be a weekend away at a campsite after a long week at work, or sleeping on a friend's driveway after a dinner party, everything is possible once you have a roof tent..
Why buy from you and not from the manufacturer directly?
As an independent and approved dealer, Adventure Equipped not only offer unbiased advice but are able to offer discounts and incentives, which aren't always matched by other retailers.
For example, Hire Before You Buy or claim a Blue Light Discount. We are also able to offer a wider range of accessories to go with your new roof tent, plus viewings/demonstrations in Bristol.
Can you fit my roof tent for me?
We do not hold large stocks of tents ready to go in order to keep our costs low and pass these savings onto you. All tents are usually available within a few days for collection or installation, or can simply be delivered direct to you for installation at home.
This means you can not click & collect, but can book viewings of several tents, ordering the one you want there and then, or even buy online and book an installation with us.
© Copyright. All rights reserved.
We need your consent to load the translations
We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.