7 Reasons to Choose a Rooftop Tent Over a Regular Tent

May 16, 2024

Novsight Rooftop Tent on a Jeep Gladiator

What is a rooftop tent?

A rooftop tent, as the name suggests, is a tent installed on the roof.

Rooftop tents have become a popular camping style for outdoor off-road camping in recent years. With the popularity of people going camping and outdoor activities, more and more camping enthusiasts are looking for more convenient and comfortable camping options. Against this background, rooftop tents came into being and became the ideal choice for off-road adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. A rooftop tent is a tent installed on the roof of a car that can be quickly unfolded through simple operations to provide a comfortable sleeping space and a convenient camping experience.

Types of Rooftop Tents

There are three main types of rooftop tents:

Hard shell rooftop tents:These tents are made with a hard shell, typically made of fiberglass or aluminum. They provide the most durable protection and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Hard shell rooftop tents are usually more expensive than other types of rooftop tents, but they are also easier to set up and take down.

Soft shell rooftop tents:These tents are made with waterproof fabric, typically made of polyester or nylon. They are lighter and more affordable than hard shell rooftop tents, but they are not as durable. Soft shell rooftop tents usually take longer to set up and take down than hard shell rooftop tents.

Inflatable rooftop tents:These tents are made with inflatable fabric, typically made of PVC or nylon. They are the lightest and most affordable type of rooftop tent, but they are also the least durable. Inflatable rooftop tents require an air pump to set up, which can be time-consuming.

When choosing a rooftop tent, consider the following factors:

Budget: Rooftop tents range in price from $1,000 to $5,000.
Capacity: Rooftop tents can sleep anywhere from 2 to 6 people.
Season: Some rooftop tents are designed for specific seasons, such as winter or summer.
Setup time: Some rooftop tents are easier to set up and take down than others.
Features: Some rooftop tents come with additional features, such as a skylight or an annex room.

Based on your needs and budget, you can find the perfect rooftop tent for you.

Here are some popular rooftop tent brands:

iKamper
Roofnest
Thule
Smittybilt
Novsight

Comparison of Rooftop Tents and Ground Tents

Rooftop tents and ground tents are both popular options for campers, but they offer different advantages and disadvantages. Here are 7 reasons why you should consider choosing a rooftop tent over a regular tent for your next outdoor adventure:

1.Safety

Rooftop tents are safer than ground tents because they are elevated off the ground, which reduces the risk of being bitten by insects or other animals.

2.Space Comparison

Rooftop tents are more space-efficient than ground tents because they can be folded flat and stored on top of the vehicle. This frees up space in the vehicle for other gear. Ground tents, on the other hand, must be folded and stored in the trunk or cargo area of the vehicle, which can take up a lot of space.

3.Price

Rooftop tents are more expensive than ground tents. Ground tents typically cost between $100 and $400, while rooftop tents typically cost between $1,599 and $3,999. However, rooftop tents are more durable than ground tents and are likely to last longer. They also come with longer warranties.

4.Ease of Setup

Rooftop tents can be more difficult to set up than ground tents, especially the first time. However, once they are installed, they are much faster to deploy than ground tents. Some rooftop tents, such as those from NOVSIGHT, even have automatic extension poles that make setup even faster. Ground tents, on the other hand, must be set up each time you use them, and you need to find a suitable location, such as a flat, grassy area.

5.Materials and Fabrics

Camping tents are typically made of nylon or oxford cloth, and the difference is usually in the water resistance rating and fabric thickness. For overnight camping outdoors, the tent fabric should have a water resistance rating of over PU1500mm and a fabric thickness of over 210D for the outer tent and 600D for the inner tent. However, the outer shell of rooftop tents is usually made of metal or high-quality ABS, while ground tents are simply made of fabric and poles.

6.Waterproofing

Rooftop tents are more waterproof than ground tents and have better sealing.

7.Tent Interior Space

In general, ground tents have more space because they are installed directly on the ground, and the sleeping area below depends on the size of the tent you buy. Rooftop tents, on the other hand, need to consider the size of the vehicle you buy and then choose the right size of rooftop tent. However, rooftop tents have better privacy than ground tents.

Who Should Use Rooftop Tents?

Rooftop tents are a great option for a variety of people, including:

Owners of off-road vehicles, trucks, or large SUVs:This is the most important consideration, as rooftop tents are not suitable for small cars. Small cars do not have the roof racks or the weight capacity to support a rooftop tent. If you have an off-road vehicle or a large SUV, then you can consider installing a rooftop tent.
People who frequently go on outdoor adventures with friends: Rooftop tents are a great way to have a comfortable and convenient camping experience, even if you are camping in remote areas. They are also a great way to socialize with your friends, as they provide a common area where everyone can gather.
People who enjoy spending time alone in nature: Rooftop tents can provide a peaceful and secluded retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They are a great place to relax and read a book, stargaze, or just enjoy the peace and quiet of the outdoors.
Families who enjoy camping together:Rooftop tents are a great way to create memories with your family. They provide a spacious and comfortable place for everyone to sleep, and they can also be used as a play area for children.
People who enjoy customizing their vehicles:Rooftop tents can be a great way to add a personal touch to your vehicle. There are many different styles and sizes of rooftop tents available, so you can find one that perfectly matches your taste and needs.

Novsight is an outdoor gear brand that specializes in making rooftop tents. We are committed to providing our customers with high-quality, affordable rooftop tents. Compared to other well-known brands, Novsight rooftop tents are just as good in terms of quality, but with more competitive prices. If you are looking for a high-quality, affordable rooftop tent, then Novsight is definitely the best choice for you. Visit the Novsight website today to learn more about our products and start your next outdoor adventure!