Anyone who has camped on the ground knows how uncomfortable it can be, but the experience is still well worth the pain. Nothing beats activating your brain’s full-disconnect mode and sleeping under the stars, far away from city lights and sounds. But what if you could do it in comfort? Luckily, there are several camping, outdoor, off-road and overlanding supply companies that offer various styles of roof top and truck bed tents for an elevated experience.
Rough-and-rugged diehards may call traveling with a roof top or truck bed tent “glamping,” but the overlanding and camping enthusiasts who opted for the upgrade are living it up. Roof top tents are especially good for long road trips when getting a restful undisturbed sleep is most important. You’ll be safely snoozing above the nighttime creepy crawlies and protected from ever-changing ground conditions with any of the following five top-rated tents.
It’s important to note that all roof top tents, because of their weight and that of their occupants, require a sturdy roof rack (typically costing between $99-$250) installed on your vehicle or trailer’s roof.
For our list of the best roof top tents for 2021, we specifically chose roof top tents that feature the quickest setup and breakdown procedures possible for people who want to spend less time preparing and more time enjoying nature.
Most spacious: Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent with Annex
Thule Tepui Explorer Autana 4 with Annex, Haze Gray
$2,999.95
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Why We Picked It:
If you plan on adventuring with your family year-round in various climates, the Thule Tepui Explorer Autana 3 with annex is a supremely comfortable roof top tent setup that can sleep up to four. Despite its considerable size, this tent is easy enough for one person to set up, and the extended canopy and removable enclosed annex below provide a private space to freshen up and change clothes. There are also four large pockets inside for storing gear or necessities.
The Tepui tent’s surrounding canvas is constructed from UV and mold-resistant coated 600D polyester and a 260g poly-cotton blend that is tough enough to withstand any environmental abuse. The mesh side panels and zip-open windows offer excellent ventilation. Purchasing a separate anti-condensation mat is recommended to rid the interior of any access moisture, especially on cold nights.
Pros:
- Accommodates up to 4 people
- Durable in any season
- Includes a privacy canopy with annex
Cons:
- Steep Price
- Sides may get wet in rain if weather hood is not used
- Separate anti-condensation mat recommended
Most durable: KingCamp Rooftop Tent
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KingCamp Rooftop Tent Hard Shell for SUV Travel Pop-up Installation Tent Large Space Suitable for 2 People with Ladder & Waterproof Hard Shell Tent Overland Roof Top Tent (Black/Grey)
$2,909.99
−$500.00
$2,409.99
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Why We Picked It:
The KingCamp Rooftop Tent features a rugged hard-shell design, which eliminates worries about rips and leaks that could occur with a canvas roof and may last longer overall than conventional tents. It’s equipped with gas springs, so the tent pops up automatically once the straps are released. The setup weighs in at 116.8 pounds when empty.
The included thick cotton pad is reported to be comfortable and sleeps two adults. Two windows and doors zip open to provide ventilation, however, if the ventilation points are zipped closed during sleep, the tent may accumulate condensation.
Pros:
- Durable hard top
- Sets up in seconds
- Comfortable thick pad
Cons:
- Heavier than soft top competitors
- May accumulate condensation when closed
- Expensive
Best low profile: Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Roof Top Tent – Lightweight Low Profile Durable for Outdoor Travel and Camping for Truck,Van, SUV or Car Front Runner
$1,169.00
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Why We Picked It:
The Front Runner roof top tent is the most low-profile tent on the market at only 7.87-inches tall when collapsed. Weighing in at just over 90 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest. Since roof top tents add weight and aerodynamic drag, if you’re concerned about fuel economy this setup is worth your consideration.
Despite its smaller size, the Front Runner tent still sleeps two adults comfortably. The aluminum base keeps the unit lightweight but has been reported to feel cold through the included mattress during chilly nights. It unfolds with one swift motion of the retractable ladder and features zippered privacy panels on all screened windows and doors. In addition, the purchase includes a removable fly-sheet cover that offers shade during the day and helps prevent condensation overnight. Built-in roof ventilation backed with mosquito netting further prevents condensation.
Pros:
- Low-profile and lightweight
- Good ventilation
- Can be mounted to open on any side of the vehicle
Cons:
- Protective cover can be difficult to zip
- Aluminum base can get cold at night
- Shipping not included in cost
Best for Stargazing: Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent
Smittybilt Overlander Tent
$1,205.59
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Why We Picked It:
The Smittybilt Overlander roof top tent elevates your camping experience with stargazing possibilities. The two zip-open panels on the roof backed by an anti-mosquito screen also offer optimum ventilation. Even when it’s raining, just strap on the included rain cover and leave the roof panels opened for more airflow. Heavy rain can cause rainwater to pool over the entryway and window awnings, so lowering the awnings during storms is recommended.
The tent has a hook and loop strap that secures an included multi-LED light strip. It also includes four interior storage pockets and a fifth to hold the light cord, plus an exterior bag to hang shoes. According to reviews (and personal experience), the sleeping mat could use more cushioning but is easily remedied by adding layers. This Smittybilt tent weighs 116 pounds empty and fits up to two adults and a small child. If more room is desired, there’s also an XL model that can sleep up to four adults.
Pros:
- Roof panels open for star gazing
- Great ventilation
- Affordable
Cons:
- Some complaints about the ladder quality
- Rain water may pool on the awnings
- Included sleeping mat a bit stiff
Best Waterproof Roof Top Tent: Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3
Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent RTT – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black Travel Cover Universal
$1,449.99
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Why We Picked It:
Overland Vehicle System’s Nomadic line of roof top tents use heavy-duty materials that will withstand even the biggest rainstorms, time and time again. The premium 600D double ripstop polyester-cotton canvas body allows for breathability to prevent condensation, but also offers protection for the harshest conditions. Screened windows and a skylight offer more airflow. A removable waterproof rainfly provides additional cover and an annex room is available as a separate purchase. The enclosure is constructed on a diamond plate base that features marine-grade steel hinges and hardware.
This tent also includes an insulated base, 3-inch high-density foam mattress with quilted cotton cover, a heavy-duty transportation cover, six built-in pockets, a storage loft and a power bank pouch. Bonuses include LED lights, memory foam pillows, a lap table, and a mini broom and a dustpan. Installation is straightforward and does not require drilling or modification of stock roof racks, however, it is best to have two people available to lift it onto the roof.
Pros:
- Lots of bonus items included
- No factory roof rack modification required
- Five-year warranty
Cons:
- Rain is loud on rainfly
- Takes up storage space
Bestselling Truck Bed & Tailgate Bed Tents
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19,092 Reviews
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Bestseller No. 2
7,742 Reviews
- THE BEST GOT BETTER: Thanks to input from thousands of customers, we’ve made dramatic improvements for the new decade to provide more warmth and value. Unlike cheaper blankets, Arcturus wool blankets are triple-washed during production, making them softer, more hygienic, and less susceptible to shedding. Check out recent customer feedback to get the most accurate reviews from your fellow Arcturus fans.
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$39.99
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Bestseller No. 3
175 Reviews
- Dimensions when full: 42″ x 15″ x 15″ (L*W*H) with extra-large capacity, COOLBEBE travel bag with roomy interior for storing items; Ideal for camping, hunting and sport travel and even fits for umbrella style strollers
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$21.99
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Bestseller No. 4
4,889 Reviews
- Quality Large Duffel Bags are BIG, please choose the right size for you.
- Durable Big Cargo Rack Roofbag with High Quality Adjustable/removable shoulder strap with Anti-Slip shoulder pad and Extra Heavy Duty metal hardware.
- Heavy Duty Travel Bag made in High Density water resistant material to stay wear and tear handling.
$33.98
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Bestseller No. 5
7 Reviews
- Official Product of Camping Season and the Pick-up Truck
- Featuring the pickup truck camper
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$19.99
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Bestseller No. 6
1,675 Reviews
Rightline Gear Mid Size Short Bed Truck Tent (5′)
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$179.95
−$18.45
$161.50
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Bestseller No. 7
18,717 Reviews
Sport-Brella Versa-Brella 4-Way Swiveling Sun Umbrella (Midnight Blue), 38×39
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$21.99
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Bestseller No. 8
9,452 Reviews
ABCCANOPY Canopy Weights 112 LBS Gazebo Tent Sand Bags,4pcs-Pack (Black)
