rOOF TOP TENT, oVERLANDING TENT, Overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, vehicle supported adventure,

Nothing seems to say I’m a Vehicle Supported Adventurer more than rigs sporting a ROOF TOP TENT (RTT). We’ve been using them on our overland rigs and off-road trailers for years and have had great experiences with quite a few brands. They’re not for everyone, but what you lose in MPG, wind noise, and higher center of gravity, you gain in comfort, speed of set up and “overlanding status”. (We all know that looks count!) The following Roof Top Tent Resource Guide does not reflect TAP’s personal preferences or opinions. It is simply a comprehensive look at what soft and hard shell styles and brands are currently on the market in the USA. If you’ve already read our Guide to buying a RTT and you’re now in the market to purchase one, then hopefully this will help your SEARCH.

Roof Top Tent Styles to look for:

  • Hard Shell Roof Top Tent: TOP Hard Shells
  • Soft Shell Roof Top Tent
  • Hybrid Hard and Soft Shell Roof Top Tent

__________________________________________________________________

23 Zero

23zero logo path orange TM
23 zero, overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, roof top tents, hard shell roof top tent, RTT,

The 23 Zero Armadillo A3 is a rugged, 14 GA, fully welded, Aluminum, 4-season, hard-shell roof-top-tent. It’s uniquely and aerodynamic styled with semi-textured, high-gloss, black, trail-hardened finish ready to deflect low hanging branches or high-speed roadways in all conditions. 

The shell includes T-slot mounting rails ready for you to mount solar panels, racks, gear boxes, etc, so you can travel with additional gear that might otherwise be left at home.

It also includes our new, sustainable, ECO13B fabric which is 100% certified recycled 900D Polyester Oxford. It looks and feels exactly the same, but it is produced using recycled PET bottles. This fabric results in huge energy savings as well as significantly less petroleum and chemical use during fiber production to bring sustainability to our industry – it’s good for the environment while getting you out in the environment!

There is no change to our revolutionary LST™ (light suppression technology) feature with the introduction of ECO13B fabric. In fact, we have found it to have improved LST™ to better adhere to the fabric and even further reduce light penetration so your RTT will maintain up to 15% cooler temperatures inside the tent. There is almost zero light penetration until any windows are opened. You can sleep better than ever before in our roof-top tents. 

Additionally, the Armadillo includes a portable USB LED clip-on-pole light, two internal power supply pouches, two external hanging boot bags and a 2” Rebound Foam™ mattress with a removable quilted topper.

The Armadillo A3 can be purchased with a right or left side deployment option which allows for optimized placement on your choice of overland.  It comes in two sizes, the A2 which is a 2-person tent, and the A3 which is a 3-person tent – see our website for all the dimensions, tech specs, etc.

www.23Zero.com

$3,995 MSRP – May Special $230 off!

Tel: 855 875 7755 [email protected]

_____________________________________________________________________

Autohome:

unnamed
Autohome, RTT, roff top tents, overland tents,  overlanding, overland, off-roading, off-road, roof top tents, hard shell roof top tent,

When success and survival depend on durability and reliability, Autohome products have been chosen again and again for expeditions in all conditions around the world.  From South American Jungles to the Steppes of Mongolia, Autohome tents have been entrusted to protect explorers, racing teams, mechanics, photographers, journalists, scientists, and adventurers over the past 65 years.

In 1958 Autohome Italy patented the first commercial roof-top tent in the world; since then the company has continued to refine and develop the worlds best professional grade roof-top tent for hard use spawning dozens of companies with imitations of the original. Handcrafted in Italy, Autohome continues to reinvest in research and development that sets the industry benchmarks for quality, durability, and usability.

Using only the finest European sourced materials available, we overbuild our hard-shell tents to survive the harshest climates across the globe.  With a sleek form that follows function, Autohome tents are the evolution of a product uniquely adapted to survive rigorous use year after year. With a 5-year warranty that exceeds the industry standard we have tents still in regular use that are older than most every other roof-tent company in existence.

If your adventures require the best roof-top tent in the world be sure to choose wisely; an Autohome tent will be a part of your family for a long time to come.  Be part of the legacy.

www.autohomeus.com

Price range: $3299.00 to $6299.00

Contact info:  Autohome USA Sales 888.852.2359 or [email protected]

_____________________________________________________________________

Camp King:

Screen Shot 2023 04 24 at 1.52.27 PM
Camp King RTT 70 Series, roof top tent, rtt, overland, overlanding, off- roading, off-road,

The Camp King Roof Top Tent was launched in 2018 and is Australia’s first-ever one-piece hardshell rooftop tent. It’s the original and the best. 

Tested in the Outback & Around the World: Designed in-house using the latest CAD design technology, and tested in some of the most remote off-road locations around the world. Our development, testing and QC process ensures each and every Camp King Industries clamshell rooftop tent meets the highest standards. As Standard we include a 100mm (~ 4”) memory foam mattress and our 12V Kit inside the tent which includes –  1 x hardwired LED light, 2 x USB ports and 1 x 12 volt charger. A range of accessories enhances the utility including optional roof load bars, solar panel, canvas storage bags and more.

This Aluminium Roof Top Tent is Built Tough: The one-piece roof design of our rooftop tent was exclusively developed by Camp King Industries. The rooftop tent roof is TIG welded and secured with a specialized Orlock riveting system creating the most structurally solid top unit on the market.

Australian-Made Roof Top Tent: A superior quality tent made from Australian Made Wax Convertors Tear Stop Canvas – Trusted worldwide for its uncompromising performance in even the harshest environments. This canvas is made using the latest state-of-the-art textile processing equipment to provide the highest quality tear-resistant fabric that’s the best rooftop tent canvas available, providing maximum breathability and unsurpassed performance in any climate.

Quick Set-Up: Our clamshell roof top tent is designed to be set up or packed down in a matter of minutes. This tent was made with adventure and convenience in mind because life is too short to muck about with tent poles.

Warranty:  World Class warranty – 5 Years on Camp King workmanship, 5 years on the Canvas (deterioration and fading), and 1 year on incidentals such as latches, handles, and struts.

www.campking.com

MSRP: $5999

_____________________________________________________________________

BADASS:

Roof Top Tent
bADASS TENTS, ROOF TOP TENTS, RTT, OVERLAND, OVERLANDING, roof top tent, rtt, off- roading, off-road,

NEW! 2023 PACKOUT™ Rooftop Tent – MADE IN THE USA!

Made in the USA, the tactically styled new 2023 PACKOUT™ clamshell Rooftop Tent joins its siblings of the “lightest & slimmest” soft top rooftop tent weighing in at only 100 lbs. and 3” tall. With a 1 min set-up time, this waterproof 400D ripstop all-season tent (get a good sleeping bag for under 30°) is just big enough to store your sleeping bags and a ladder inside with the included 1″ sleeping pad.

This PACKOUT™ tent uses our patented modular assembly method to save you freight shipping and labor by assembling it yourself using our step-by-step DIY instructions or following the video online, should take 4-5 hours for most mechanically inclined adventurists with an electric driver and flat surface. If you have any doubts about your ability or have to ask, then please pay a little extra and buy pre-assembled.

Fits most vehicles that have a roof rack or crossbars that will support 100+lbs in transit + campers while stationary, includes a sleeping pad and cover, and is backed by our 3-year warranty!

Available in 2 sizes:

  • STANDARD Size has a sleeping area of 45×78″ and fits 2 people under 5’10” without bending their knees. This size fits the roof line well for all Wrangler 2-doors, Grand Cherokee, Subaru’s, Rav4, Discovery Sport, or any midsized SUV or sedan.
  • The larger HICAP size has a sleeping area of 48×88″ and is great for anybody over 5’10” or for 2-3 people. We recommend HICAP for all trucks with cab height bed racks, 4-door Wranglers, 4Runners, Land Cruisers, LX460, Land Rovers, Vans, or any other vehicle with a larger roof.

WWW.BADASSTENTS.COM

Price Range: $1895 – $2695

[email protected] Tel: 858 842 1855

______________________________________________________________________

Roofnest:

Roof Top Tent
Roof Top Tents, Roof Top Tent, RTT, overlanding, overland, over land, off-road, off-roading, off road, vehicle supported adventure, camping, tents, car tents, car tent,

Roofnest’s Falcon 2 –  Thinner, sturdier, and more comfortable than its predecessor.
The Falcon 2 takes all the elements that made the Falcon our bestselling tent, and upgrades them to even loftier standards. Astonishingly thin at just 6.5” closed, the sleek aerodynamics of the Falcon 2 offer even more energy efficiency. A newly designed top shell reduces condensation by sandwiching two sheets of aluminum around an insulating foam layer, and a familiar honeycomb aluminum-constructed bottom shell is now equipped with a pair of accessory channels that can withstand up to 75 pounds of gear.
The tent material is an upgraded 320g poly-cotton canvas with a blackout coating on the inside that makes for the perfect sleeping cave, while a removable awning provides weather protection at all three entrances. Comfort is not sacrificed with an improved mattress that provides 2.5” of true memory foam. Using the optional crossbars allows for even more gear and toy carrying capacity.

www.roofnest.com

Price: $3,595

Tel: 303 872 6797 [email protected]

__________________________________________________________

Ironman4x4:

IM 4x4 Logo
UBERLITE RTT, RTT, roof top tents, overland tents, overlanding, overland, off-road, off-roading, vehicle supported adventure,

The Uber Lite Rooftop Tent is an excellent option for campers who prioritize mobility, convenience, and comfort. It’s lightweight aluminum slat base and frame make it easy to carry, install, and setup with a total weight of only 104 lbs. The Uber Lite features a universal mounting solution that can be mounted onto a variety of crossbars. When closed, this tent’s footprint is a compact 50″ x 48.4″ x 13.4″.  This is ideal for smaller CUV/SUV vehicles that may not have the capacity to carry heavier rooftop tents.  With no heavy structural poles to deal with, setting up the Uber Lite is a breeze. Simply remove the cover, pop it open, extend the ladder, and you’re just a few steps away from a comfortable night’s sleep. Packing up is just as easy with a foldable floor and a lightweight cover that latches securely. The soft outer shell is made from durable ripstop poly-cotton fabric that can withstand wet and windy conditions with a 3000mm water head rating. The entry is complete with ripstop solid covers and zipped insect-proof fine mesh. This ensures you stay dry in heavy rain and other harsh weather conditions. 

WWW.IRONMAN4X4AMERICA.COM

MSRP: $2499.00

Tel: 855 476 5714

__________________________________________________________

EEZI AWN:

Roof Top Tent
Equipt, RTT, The Sword, Roof Top Tent, Overlanding, overland,

The Sword is designed specifically with small families in mind as this larger footprint will accommodate two adults and two children with more ease than the clamshell or pop up design. To make this happen, the Sword is assembled with a one-piece hinge mechanism on the side with gas struts to help set up the tent in seconds. From there, a hidden platform unfolds to provide additional room in the tent footprint that securely hangs off the side of the vehicle. Upon opening, the walls of the tent are built from durable, rip-stop canvas with double entry privacy mesh panels, and both the roof and floor are insulated to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Much of the appeal that comes from a hardshell roof top tent is the quick setup and takedown, and the Sword is no exception. A single person can quickly unclip only two latches and easily lift to open, then push down gently to close and lock. The full process takes only seconds to complete.

These tents are assembled with a one-piece hinge mechanism on the side. Gas struts set up the tent in seconds. The included ladder stores under the tent for easy access. It also comes equipped with internal LED Light, two storage pockets, a USB Port and a 70mm high-density laminated mattress. The Eezi-Awn K9 track system is attached to the top of the tent for compatibility with mounting additional K9 accessories, load bars, and/or a solar panel bracket.

www.equipt1.com

Price: $4845

Contact: [email protected] Tel: 8667031026

_______________________________________________________________________

Bundutec:

2023 South Africa Designed New Logo USA 2
bUNDUTOP, Bundutec, Roof top tents, RTT, overland, overlanding,

Introducing the Bundutec BunduTop, the ultimate solution for hassle-free camping and outdoor adventure! Crafted with precision using top-quality Alu Extrusions and a built-in bottom frame, this tent boasts easy fitment and superior durability. In addition, the powder coating in an orange peel texture provides scratch resistance even in the most challenging off-road terrains.

Low profile at just 12″ when closed, this tent minimizes wind resistance, making it perfect for any vehicle or trailer. The tent features four large double-zippered windows that offer a 360-degree view of your surroundings.

The 300gsm Ripstop Canvas is UV resistant, providing strength and protection from harsh winds. The Raw Aluminum Top reflects heat away, keeping you comfortable in any weather. Additionally, the built-in Rain Fly ensures that your tent stays dry, regardless of the weather.

Gone are the days of wrestling with rain-fly’s and setting up camp in sweat-inducing conditions. Instead, the BunduTop is an all-electric operation that allows you to pitch the tent in less than a minute. It can operate directly from your house battery or off an auxiliary, providing convenience and flexibility. The electric operation also offers power inside the tent, including a single dome light, dual USB outlet, and 12v socket, ensuring you can quickly charge and use your devices overnight.

The BunduTop comes with a ladder sent loose, allowing you to choose the best point of entry for your rig. The ladder brackets easily rivet to the base of your tent, and the ladder folds down compactly inside the tent or your vehicle while traveling.

The BunduTop is available in three sizes, making it easy to choose the perfect fit for your setup. Visit our website or contact our friendly staff for additional information and assistance selecting the right tent for your needs. 

MSRP: $4,580 – $5,590

www.bundutecusa.com Tel 319 234 0071 [email protected]

______________________________________________________________

C6 Outdoors:

Roof Top Tent
Rev tent, C6outdoors, rtt, roof top tent, overlanding, overland,

The all new Rev Tent is the lightest Roof Top Tent in the world and works on the ground and in the bed of pick-up trucks too. 

This game changing 2 person tent features a lush 4” mattress (the thickest RTT mattress available), true 4-Season top to bottom outer fly, and 4 screened “win-doors” for superior ventilation.  The Rev Tent is quality built to satisfy all types of campers and camping styles, perfect for weekend camping as well as end of the world expeditions. 

The Rev Tent is sold in 3 configurations:  Starting at $799, the 25 lb Rev Tent is ready to go for ground or pick- bed camping.   For vehicle top sleeping, the 25 lb Rev Rack Tent at $799 is the first roof top tent designed to mount directly to popular platform style roof racks 84” or longer by Front Runner, Yakima, Rhino and many more.  The Rev Roof Top Tent, at 86 lbs, is only $1329 and works on top of most vehicles and mounts to load bars and roof racks.  Featuring modular components (tent, platform, ladder) that can easily be moved on and off the vehicle by 1 person, the Rev Roof Top Tent is not only the lightest Roof Top Tent in the world, it’s the only roof top tent that can also be effortlessly set up for camping anywhere at the camp site.  

Available in 5 different color styles, there’s a Rev Tent to fit all camp tastes.   

FREE Standard 1-2 day shipping to the lower 48 states.

WWW.C6OUTDOORS.COM

Price: $799-$1329

Contact: [email protected]

__________________________________________________________________

Thule:

Thule Logotype 3
Thule Approach rtt, RTT, roof top tents, overlanding, overland,

The spacious three-person Thule Approach rooftop tent transforms your vehicle into a mobile basecamp for adventure travel. With a modern design to maximize interior space and large panoramic windows for optimal stargazing and ventilation, Thule Approach will bring you close to nature without sacrificing premium comfort. When the weather takes a turn, Thule Approach’s removable rain cover protects you from the elements—and you can even look out the windows while the storm is passing through.

Innovative mounting brackets and a unique self-deploy design makes Thule Approach intuitive and easy to use. The mounting brackets are quick to install and even lock to your roof rack, giving you peace of mind that your tent is secure. Thule Approach is one of the fastest soft-shell tents on the market to set up and breakdown. After you arrive at your destination, just unzip the travel cover, unfold the base, and your campsite is ready in just under 3 minutes. Whether you’re traveling to the rugged wilderness or enjoying a weekend away with the family, Thule Approach will elevate and simplify your next camping adventure. 

 

www.thule.com

MSRP: $2799.95 – $3299.95

_____________________________________________________________________

Tuffstuffoverland:

Roof Top Tent
tUUF STUFF, tHE ALPINE rtt, Roof top tents, RTT, overland, overlanding,

The Alpine Roof Top Tent is a premium camping solution designed for adventurers who seek comfort and convenience while exploring the great outdoors. With its innovative features and sturdy build, the Alpine Roof Top Tent is the perfect solution for those who want to elevate their camping experience.

One of the standout features of the Alpine Roof Top Tent is its dual-action opening roof, which is made possible by four gas struts. Users can choose between a wedge or pop-up opening option to suit their needs. The roof rack on top of the tent adds to the versatility of the tent by allowing users to carry kayaks, bikes, and other gear.

The Alpine Roof Top Tent’s blackout fabric provides a full-screen room with optional 360-degree visibility, allowing users to enjoy the scenery without any distractions. The Alpine is constructed with durable antibacterial waterproof, high tear resistance, and stronger tensile than normal rooftop tent fabric. T-Slot surrounding the exterior of the tent allows for easy installation of additional equipment such as awnings, shower tents, and water supplies. The tent’s slim profile of under 8″ when packed up and latched makes it easy to store and transport.

The tent’s three entryway options, which can be selected based on the build, provide users with the flexibility to choose the most convenient access point. The window awnings are removable, allowing users to control the amount of light and ventilation in the tent.

The Alpine Roof Top Tent comes with mounting hardware and brackets that fit up to 3.25″ vehicle crossbars, making installation a breeze. The tent also features a comfortable memory foam mattress and a telescoping ladder with angled steps that won’t bite into your arches. The interior LED light strip, which requires power from a USB power pack (not included), adds to the tent’s overall convenience and comfort. The Alpine is available in 51” and 61”. Don’t settle for ordinary camping – go above and beyond with Alpine!

www.tuffstuffoverland.com

MSRP: $3,999.99

Contact: 866 220 0171

_________________________________________________________________

Hitents:

Roof Top Tent
HIT, Hitents, RTT, roof top tents, overlanding, overland,

Hitents has been bringing you exceptional quality camping equipment since 2015.  Our goal was to provide  heavy duty rooftop tents at an affordable price and we have been able to meet and exceed that for 8 years now!! Our 400g ripstop poly cotton canvas are the heaviest duty and most durable tent shells in the North American market and come standard on our Expedition Grade tents.  For those of you that want a high quality tent but a little lighter duty then our Scout Edition line is for you, these use our very robust 280g ripstop poly cotton.  Our products are globally sourced but stocked and warrantied from our shop here in California.  We are a small family owned and run business and look forward to helping you get outfitted for your next adventure.  We have 5 tent models to fit every need.

www.hitents.com

MSRP: $1875-3084

__________________________________________________________________

Intrepid:

ICG FullLogo July2022 BlackRed2
Intrepid, Intrepid RTT, iNTREPID Camp gEAR, RTT, roof top tents, overlanding, overland,

“The first and only tent of it’s kind, the Geo 2.5 is an innovative new rooftop tent engineered to maximize livable space and streamline the setup and breakdown processes. 

It’s patented hinged roof design gives the user 36% more livable space than clamshell style tents of the same area without creating a bulky profile. In fact, the Geo 2.5 is just 143lbs and 7 inches thick, making it one of the most lightweight hard shell tents on the market. At 86 inches long, the 2.5 is the ideal option for campers who enjoy the quick and easy set up of clamshell, but want more room to enjoy spending time in their tent. 

The design also boasts a unique closure system, which pulls fabric inward as you close the tent, minimizing the need to tuck in fabric when it’s time to move camp. A skylight, 2 inch thick mattress, and extra large doors on 3 sides ensure your experience in the 2.5 is as comfortable as it is efficient.” 

www.intrepidcampgear.com

MSRP: $3995

__________________________________________________________________

Alternative Roof Top Tents:

_________________________________________________________________

Things to look for when buying a RTT – HERE

For other Resource Guides check out:

Ultimate Resource Guide to Vehicle Supported Adventure

The Ultimate Guide to Off-Road and Overland Trailers

Adventure Vans – Ultimate Guide

_________________________________________________________________

Previous articleTop Adventure Vans:
Next articleFridges and Coolers
Raised in beautiful but rainy England, Andy moved to the sunny climes of Southern California in 1995 and hasn’t looked back since. Two and half decades working in the outdoor, bike and surf industries has given him a thirst for adventure and living life without a ceiling. When not working on the website, he can be found surfing Californian beaches, or in remote mountain or desert areas, either primitive camping, mountain biking or embarking upon vehicle assisted adventure in the backcountry with one of The Adventure Portal rigs.

2 COMMENTS

  1. Great article Andy!! Have used Guana Equipment Roof Top Tent a few times. It’s really great. Definitely, a brand to watch out for.

Comments are closed.