Is the weight of your rooftop tent a concern? It should be. Rooftop tents can be heavy so it’s important to know how much they weigh before you buy one.
On average, your rooftop tent will weigh approximately 100 to 200 lbs. The weight is dependent on the size, materials, and design of the tent, but generally speaking, they are not lightweight.
This guide is designed to give you all the information that you need so you can use this equipment with ease. We’ll cover everything from what’s available, to how much they weigh and even some tips for choosing the right one for your needs!
Table of Contents
How Much Does a Rooftop Tent Weigh?
The first thing that we need to consider is the tent itself and its materials. Rooftop tents come in two main types: soft-sided and hard-shelled. While most tents in both categories fit into the same weight range, a softshell tent is the best choice if you’re looking for the lightest option.
A soft-sided tent is made of a waterproof and breathable fabric, which typically weighs less than an ounce per square yard. A hardshell tent, on the other hand, is made of a heavier but more durable material like aluminium or fiberglass. It will weigh more than a soft-sided option, but it’s also more durable in the long run.
The capacity of your rooftop tent is also a factor to consider when looking at weight. A four-person tent will naturally weigh more than a two-person model. Most models can accommodate between 1 and 4 people in the weight range of 100 to 200 lbs.
Can My Vehicle Support a Rooftop Tent?
You’ll need to make sure that your vehicle can support the weight of a rooftop tent. Here are some considerations:
1. The Overall Weight Capacity of Your Vehicle
This is an obvious consideration and we can’t stress enough how important it is to make sure that your vehicle’s maximum weight capacity matches the size of your tent. It may seem like a common-sense thing, but you’d be surprised at how many people overlook this.
If you want to know how much your vehicle can actually hold, check out the owner’s manual. These can also be found online, and you can contact the manufacturer by phone or email as well.
You will want the weight capacity of your car to match or exceed the weight capacity of your tent.
2. The Type of Roof Your Car Has
Not all rooves are created equal and not every car can support a rooftop tent. Generally speaking, cars with a metal roof or an elevated roof (like an SUV) can handle the weight, while cars with a fabric or soft-top cannot.
3. Roof Rack Type and Fit
This is another important factor to consider when purchasing a rooftop tent. Your car’s roof rack will need to be able to support the weight of your tent, and it also needs to fit properly. You’ll want to make sure that the rack is securely attached and won’t move or sway while you’re driving.
The rack that comes factory installed on your car may not have a large enough weight capacity to support your rooftop tent. If this is the case, you may need to purchase a rack that is specifically designed for tents.
4. Weight Distribution
When your rooftop tent is fully loaded, the weight will be distributed across your car’s roof. If your tent’s weight isn’t properly distributed, this can put a strain on certain parts of the car and may cause damage over time. You can help to mitigate this by using weight distribution bars or pads.
Why Are Rooftop Tents So Heavy?
One of the biggest factors when it comes to rooftop tent weight is their design. Many roof tents are designed for rugged off-road use and frequent camping so they need to be tough enough to handle all types of weather conditions.
The base of a rooftop tent is made from a solid piece of metal, which adds to the weight. This metal needs to be a few inches thick so that it can support the weight of the tent as well as the people inside.
The poles that hold up the tent are also made from heavy-duty materials, like aluminium or fiberglass, to ensure stability in windy conditions.
Hardshell rooftop tents are also made of a heavier but more durable material, like aluminium or fiberglass. They will weigh slightly more than the average soft-sided option, but they’re also much more durable in the long run.
Add all of this together and you have a rooftop tent that is significantly heavier than your average camping tent.
How Can I Reduce the Weight of My Roof Top Tent?
There are a few different ways that you can reduce the weight of your rooftop tent without sacrificing its durability.
If possible, go with an ultralight design. These tents will weigh less than half as much as standard options and they’re perfect for people who want to travel lightly or prefer camping in mild weather conditions.
Purchasing a softshell rooftop tent is another way to reduce weight. These tents are made from a different type of material that’s less durable but also significantly lighter in comparison with hardshell designs.
The ladder that comes with your rooftop tent is another factor that can help to reduce weight. You can detach your latter and leave it in your vehicle when not in use to help save on weight.
You can also purchase a lightweight roof rack that is specifically designed for tents. This will help to reduce the amount of strain that is placed on your car’s roof while driving.
Removing some of the accessories that come with your tent, like the rainfly or footprint, can also lighten the load, although this may only make a minimal difference overall.
Keep in mind that one of the best ways to reduce the weight of a rooftop tent is to make sure to get a smaller size. If you don’t need to host an entire family in your tent, go ahead and purchase a 1 or 2 person option. This will naturally be smaller and lighter than a larger size.
Are Rooftop Tents Too Heavy?
If you’re wondering whether rooftop tents are too heavy, this totally depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in a camping experience.
If you’re someone who wants to camp in all types of weather conditions or frequently go off-road, then a rooftop tent is the perfect option for you. They are designed to be tough and withstand all kinds of environments.
However, if you’re only interested in occasional camping trips and don’t need all the extra features that a rooftop tent offers, then you may want to consider a standard camping tent instead. These tents are significantly lighter in weight and can be set up much more easily.
In the end, there are many factors that go into their weight and what you’re looking for in a camping experience. Do your research and decide what’s best for you.
What Is the Lightest Weight Rooftop Tent?
There is no one definitive answer to this question as the weight of a rooftop tent can vary greatly depending on its design and features. However, there are a few tents that are lighter than average and perfect for people who want to travel lightly or camp in mild weather conditions.
Some of the lightest weight rooftop tents include the following:
The Skycamp Mini
This hardshell tent weighs in at 125 lbs, which is impressive for such a durable design. This tent can be set up in less than 60 seconds, making it perfect for quick setups. It also comes with a dense and comfortable polyfoam mattress and can fit up to 2 adults comfortably and safely.
It’s wind-resistant, quiet, insulated, and has waterproof accessories to ensure that you stay dry and warm no matter what the weather throws your way.
This design has one several awards and is one of the lightest weight rooftop tents on the market.
If you want a little more space, consider the Skycamp 2x, which comes with the same features, but is slightly bigger and can accommodate a small child as well.
The Cascadia Mt. Baker Tent
This tent is one of the lightest hard shell tents, weighing only 98 lbs. This clamshell-style tent is perfect for people who are looking to go on frequent camping trips in all weather conditions.
It’s windproof, waterproof, and insulated so you can stay dry no matter what the forecast looks like when you head out into nature.
This tent sets up quickly with a color-coded design that makes it easy to install by yourself. It also includes a waterproof and windproof carrying case to help you keep your tent protected when it’s not in use.
If you’re looking for a lightweight hardshell rooftop tent that can do it all, the Cascadia Mt. Baker Tent is an excellent option.
The Thule Tepui Foothill
This 2 person tent weighs 105 lbs, making it a great option for those who want less weight overall. This spacious tent can fit two adults and also allows space for other supplies you may bring, such as kayaks, bikes, and additional storage.
The Roofnest Sparrow EYE
This tent is one of the lightest on the market, weighing in at only 130 lbs. It’s perfect for people who want to travel light and it doesn’t require any assembly – just take it out of the bag and put it up.
The Sparrow EYE also has a waterproof design that will keep you dry in any weather conditions and has a spacious interior that can fit up to two adults.
It also comes with an easy-to-follow installation guide, so you won’t have trouble getting it together when the time comes. This tent can fit on top of all vehicle types, making it a great option for any type of camping trip.
These are just a few of the lightest weight rooftop tents on the market today. You can find many more options by doing a little research online, but make sure to choose one that is perfect for your needs.
Advantages of Lightweight Roof Top Tents
Some advantages of lightweight roof top tents include:
- The lighter-weight rooftop tents are often still durable and will outlast the average ground tent.
- It will be easier to transport by airplane on a commercial airline. For traveling or long-distance campers.
- It will put less strain on your car or camper when you’re driving, which can be a big help on long trips.
- The lighter weight also means that it will be easier to set up and take down, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time getting your tent ready for bed.
- You’ll be able to get better gas mileage with a lighter rooftop tent.
- You can fit lightweight rooftop tents onto a larger variety of vehicles since they have a larger weight load and size overall.
- You can fit other items onto the roof of your vehicle with a lightweight rooftop tent, such as kayaks or bikes.
Disadvantages of Lightweight Rooftop Tents
Some disadvantages include:
- The lighter-weight design may mean that it will not be able to handle snow and rain like heavier-weight roof tents can. You may need an additional waterproof cover for the tent.
- It may not be as durable and will wear out faster than heavier-weight rooftop tents.
- It can be hard to find a lightweight rooftop tent in a larger size.
- The smaller size may not be comfortable for larger campers.
Are Rooftop Tents Safe?
In general, rooftop tents are safe. They’re designed to withstand wind and rain, so you don’t have to worry about being out in the elements. However, it’s always important to do your research before purchasing a rooftop tent to make sure that it is right for your needs.
In order to make sure you have the safest and best experience possible, you need to find a rooftop tent that meets the specifications given by your camper or vehicle.
You also want to make sure it can handle any terrain where you’ll be camping and choose one with all of the features you desire such as an attached rainfly and windows for ventilation.
Make sure that your rooftop tent comes with a sturdy ladder to make getting up onto the roof easier, and also choose a model that is easy to set up and take down.
Being elevated off of the ground can also make it easier to see wildlife and stay safe. You also won’t have to worry about flooding if you camp near a river or lake, or on a lower spot of land.
Always take the time to fully read the product description and specifications for any rooftop tent you purchase so that it meets your needs. If you have any questions about using your rooftop tent, be sure to ask the manufacturer or find a forum or website with questions from other customers.
How Fast Can You Drive With a Rooftop Tent?
One of the most common questions surrounding rooftop tents is how fast you can drive while using one. You’ll want to check your specific tent’s specifications for this information, but generally speaking, they are built to handle speeds up to 75 mph without any difficulties.
Many users have reported that they have driven up to 100 mph while keeping their cargo and rooftop tents secure.
You may need an additional tie-down system if you plan on driving faster than that, but it’s important to know that your rooftop tent can handle speeds up to that point without any problems.
When choosing a rooftop tent, make sure to take into account the speed you’ll be driving and find one that is built for those speeds. That way, you’ll avoid any potential damage to your tent or vehicle.
Are Rooftop Tents Worth the Money?
The bottom line is that a rooftop tent can be a great investment, but it depends on your specific needs.
They are perfect for those who want the added benefit of being elevated off the ground and have easy access to their gear or who want to spend more time outdoors without having to worry about finding a place to set up camp.
If you are looking for extra space inside your tent, then a rooftop model may not be the best option.
Additionally, they can be an expensive purchase, so it’s important to do your research and find the right one for your needs. Will you use it enough to justify the cost?
They are typically lightweight and easy to set up, so it’s a great option for those who aren’t too handy with tools or building things. They also provide extra security from animals since you’ll be off the ground.
Rooftop tents can come in all shapes and sizes as well as different materials, so it’s important to find the one that is perfect for you and your needs.
Why You Should Buy a Rooftop Tent
They’re More Comfortable
Using a rooftop tent is often much more comfortable than sleeping on the ground. You’ll be off the damp or rocky surface, and you won’t have to worry about bumping your head against low-hanging branches either. They often come with high-quality bedding that is likely more comfortable than anything you would use in a ground tent, and they provide plenty of ventilation as well.
They’re Great For Camping Near Water
If your family loves to camp near water like lakes or oceans, then using a rooftop tent is definitely one of the best options out there. You’ll be able to see more wildlife since you will be off the ground, and you won’t have to worry about flooding either.
They’re Secure from Animals
While having food stored in a rooftop tent may invite animals like bears, they are still much more secure than having it stored in a tent on the ground. You’ll also be able to see them from inside your tent, which is helpful for those who love camping but are worried about safety and harmful wildlife.
They’re Easy To Set Up
Rooftop tents can usually be set up or taken down by one person within minutes, making them perfect for those who don’t have a lot of time or patience for setting up their tent.
They’re Easy to Transport
Many rooftop tents can be folded up for easy transport or storage, so this is another great option for those who don’t want to deal with bulky camping gear. They’re lightweight and often include straps that allow you to wear them like a backpack.
They’re More Affordable Than an RV
While an RV may be a great option for some, it can cost tens of thousands of dollars to purchase and maintain one. A rooftop tent is much cheaper in the long run since you won’t need to worry about paying high utility costs or looking for places to park your vehicle when traveling.
Where Can I Camp With My Roof Tent?
Rooftop tents provide you with the freedom to camp almost anywhere you want. Here are some great places to keep in mind when thinking of where you will take your rooftop tent:
- Mountainous areas with plenty of trees for cover
- Near rivers or lakes where you can take advantage of the views
- National parks and other public lands that allow camping
- Off-the-grid locations like deserts, beaches, and woods
- RV parks or campgrounds with large open spaces for your rooftop tent
- Designated parking spots during a road trip
- On your friend’s or family’s private property
When choosing a location to camp in your rooftop tent, make sure to take into account whether or not there are any regulations or restrictions in that area.
Final Thoughts
A rooftop tent is a great investment for anyone who loves camping. They provide a wealth of benefits over traditional ground tents, and they’re often more affordable than an RV. Make sure to do your research before purchasing one so you can find the perfect model and weight for your needs.
Happy camping!