Author: DARCHE
Choosing a new rooftop tent is a big decision. Selecting the right one for you and your camping needs can turn a good experience outdoors into a great one. The right rooftop tent can provide you with comfort, convenience, and protection from the elements. But how do you know if it’s the right one? Today we are sharing our top five things to consider before you buy a rooftop tent so you pick your purchase with confidence.
1. Is It Compatible with Your Vehicle?
Not every rooftop tent is going to be a good fit for your vehicle; that's why it's important to make sure the one you're considering will work with your car or truck to avoid any headaches later on. Rooftop tents attach to roof racks or crossbars on top of your vehicle. You’ll need to know how much weight your vehicle and roof rack can handle on its roof, including the tent itself and the people who'll be sleeping in it. You can find this information by looking through your vehicle's manual or reaching out to its manufacturer.
Not every rooftop tent is going to be a good fit for your vehicle; that's why it's important to make sure the one you're considering will work with your car or truck to avoid any headaches later on. Rooftop tents attach to roof racks or crossbars on top of your vehicle. You’ll need to know how much weight your vehicle and roof rack can handle on its roof, including the tent itself and the people who'll be sleeping in it. You can find this information by looking through your vehicle's manual or reaching out to its manufacturer.
2. Do You Want a Hard Shell or Soft Shell Roof Top Tent?
There are two main types of rooftop tents: hard shell and soft shell. Hard shell rooftop tents, just like the name suggests, feature a hard top design usually made of aluminium alloy and are known for their durability. They’re also super simple to set up thanks to their clamshell or pop-up design. Softshell rooftop tents like the DARCHE Intrepidor 1400mm Roof Top Tent offer the same durability but a better space-to-weight ratio as their canvas roof makes them lighter. They also typically have a more affordable price point.
Choosing between a hard shell and a soft shell rooftop tent depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of camping you plan to do. Consider the pros and cons of each type, focusing on features such as setup time, space, weight, and cost, to make an informed choice.
3. Is the Design and Layout Right For Me?
The design and layout of the right rooftop tent for you comes down to comfort and functionality. For example, if you’re mostly a solo traveller, then a rooftop tent designed for 1-2 people such as the Streamliner 1250 should suit your needs just fine. Group and family travellers on the other hand should consider the space inside the tent as well as the ease of access if there’ll be people going in and out or you’ll be taking little ones to the bathroom during the night. More people also means more heat, so if most of your outdoor adventures take place during summer, then considering the number of windows and doors for ventilation is vital.
4. Do I Need Any Accessories or Add Ons?
Rooftop tents aren’t just a place to sleep - they also offer a bunch of cool add-ons and accessories like annexes, storage, and more that can take your outdoor adventure to the next level. But it all comes down to the kind of camping trips you're planning and what you might need to make them even better. If you need more protection from the sun or would like some added privacy at your site, then choosing a rooftop tent that can accommodate an annex attachment might be the way to go. Or if you’re camping in wet or muddy conditions, an externally-mounted storage bag is the perfect way to keep them close and your tent interior clean.
5. Is It Durable & High-Quality?
Whether you’re just a casual camper or are exploring the outdoors every weekend, investing in high-quality equipment that you can rely on is vital. Rooftop tents are no different; you want a shelter that can handle everything Mother Nature throws at it, from torrential downpours or gusty winds. When choosing a rooftop tent, look for brands which utilise waterproof materials like canvas, polyester, cotton or nylon that won't let water in and can block out harmful UV rays. You should also confirm the poles and frame are manufactured using aluminium, steel or other durable materials. Investing in a tent that's built to last means you're setting yourself up for countless future camping adventures with adequate protection from the elements.
Picking out a rooftop tent involves thinking about a few key things to make sure you end up with something that suits your needs and makes your camping trips even better. Why not swing by your local BCF and check out the whole DARCHE rooftop tent range? Our expert team will help you find a rooftop tent that has everything you're looking for.
For more information, check out the DARCHE range on the BCF website
About the author
Darche
Darche dominate the camping and touring scene, and have been for over 30 years with their wide range of quality, tough, and innovative swags, awnings, rooftop tents, sleeping gear, furniture, and accessories built for the avid camper or 4x4 adventurer. Whether you’re heading out bush, on a road trip, or just down to the beach for the day, Darche has all your exploring and adventuring needs covered.
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