Renting a 4×4 with a rooftop tent has become a top trend amongst self-drive safari goers. For those lucky enough to own a 4×4 vehicle, a rooftop tent represents a significant investment, which makes some particularly reluctant to trade in their traditional ground tents.
As many of our customers have found, however, once you use a rooftop tent you never go back, with this handy off-roading upgrade unlocking a number of great perks. But how does a roof tent compare to a widely used ground tent?
Here we share a handy guide comparing ground tents and roof tents, and detail just some of the reasons why a roof tent is an investment well worth making.
What are the benefits of rooftop tents?
Up until recent years, a rooftop tent was known for providing a niche camping experience that could only be enjoyed by a select few. Now thanks to the range of rooftop tents and awnings currently available from the leading brands we collaborate with, the rooftop tent experience is accessible to all.
Far from the contraptions of yesteryear, modern rooftop tents are the premium installs they should be, offering optimum convenience wherever you pitch up for the night both on the road and off.
With an elevated view of your destination there for the taking, and all-important protection from creepy crawlies and local wildlife, turning your vehicle into a treehouse on wheels is the scenic and safe option.
How do ground tents compare?
Unlike ground tents, rooftop tents are quicker to set up and pack away; flood, bug and animal proof; and more robust and secure.
Many premium roof tents have even been applauded for their cosier interiors, with good quality rooftop tents made from thicker canvas material facilitating better temperature regulation than ground tents. With this, you can stay warm on those chilly nights, a fact that puts winter 4×4 adventures back on the menu.
When planning those off-road adventures, you’ll also find you have more options when choosing places to camp. With a roof tent in tow, you can pretty much camp anywhere, with the usual rules for pitching ground tents (on flat, dry but soft ground) not applying.
Once packed away, your rooftop tent takes up minimal space in your vehicle, giving you and your passengers more storage to play with.
What things should I consider when purchasing a roof tent?
There is a growing range of rooftop tents available, which can make finding the right one for you, your vehicle and your budget particularly painstaking. Thankfully, we stock a selection of top-rated roof tents for a variety of 4×4 makes and models right here at 4×4 Works.
Before you choose your rooftop tent, it’s important to understand the limits of your vehicle however, as Roof Tent Insider details:
“It is vitally important to understand what dynamic and static weight limits are and how they play a roll in your set up. In order to safely use a RTT, it needs to be secured properly and not exceed any weight limit thresholds. The last thing you want to happen is your brand new beautiful RTT to fly off your roof, possibly damaging your vehicle, rack, or others.”
Most vehicles will need a roof rack to mount a roof tent. Modular roof racks work particularly well, especially if you need to make your 4×4’s storage more versatile and practical when travelling for work or leisure. Find out more about the benefits of adding a modular rack to your 4×4.
You can also read our guide to fitting a rooftop tent to your vehicle, and shop our range of rooftop tents and awnings, including our newest additions from Front Runner.