Rooftop car tents are becoming increasingly popular for adventure seekers and campers, providing a unique way to camp in remote areas while staying elevated above the ground. However, not all vehicles are suited for rooftop tents. In this guide, we will explore the types of vehicles best suited for rooftop tents and provide insights into what makes them ideal for this camping setup.
1. SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles)
SUVs are one of the most popular vehicle types for rooftop tents due to their strong roof structures, high ground clearance, and off-road capabilities. These vehicles often come with 4WD and are designed to handle uneven terrain, making them ideal for overland travel and camping.
Suitable Models:
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Known for its ruggedness and reliability, the Land Cruiser series (Prado, 76, and 78 series) is perfect for long off-road trips and can support rooftop tents with ease.
- Toyota 4Runner: A robust midsize SUV, the 4Runner is frequently used for camping and overlanding, offering both strength and comfort.
- Jeep Wrangler/Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Jeep Wrangler, with its strong roof load capacity, is a popular choice for rooftop camping, especially in off-road conditions.
- Land Rover Defender: Designed for extreme terrain, the Defender has a high load-bearing capacity, making it perfect for rooftop tents and extended camping trips.
- Ford Everest: This versatile SUV is equipped for both on-road and off-road use, with a roof load capacity that makes it suitable for a rooftop tent.
- Mitsubishi Pajero: With excellent off-road capability and a durable roof, the Pajero is ideal for setting up a rooftop tent.
Why SUVs Work:
- Strong Roof Structure: Designed to handle heavier roof loads, making them perfect for rooftop tents and camping gear.
- Ample Roof Space: The size of the roof is large enough to accommodate a full-size rooftop tent, often for 2-3 people.
- Off-Road Capabilities: SUVs are built to tackle tough terrain, allowing you to camp in remote, hard-to-reach areas.
2. 4×4 Vehicles
4×4 vehicles, or four-wheel drives, are often used in off-road and rugged environments. These vehicles are specially designed to handle tough terrain and challenging conditions, making them an excellent choice for camping with a rooftop tent. They are particularly popular in safaris, overlanding, and long-distance road trips.
Suitable Models:
- Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series: Known for its durability in extreme conditions, this vehicle is often used in safaris and long expeditions.
- Toyota Hilux: This powerful 4×4 pickup truck is favored for off-road adventures and has a roof structure capable of supporting rooftop tents.
- Ford Ranger: The Ranger is a tough, reliable 4×4 with a strong roof load capacity, making it perfect for camping setups.
- Nissan Patrol: With a high roof load limit and great off-road handling, the Patrol is ideal for camping in rough terrain.
- Land Rover Discovery: Combining luxury and off-road ability, the Discovery is a great choice for overland travelers needing both comfort and practicality.
Why 4x4s Work:
- Off-Road Mastery: Built for rugged trails, they can take you to remote campsites that standard vehicles can’t access.
- Heavy Load Capacity: These vehicles are designed to handle significant weight, which is essential when carrying a tent and gear on the roof.
- High Ground Clearance: Necessary for navigating rough terrain, ensuring you can reach prime camping spots.
3. Pickup Trucks
Pickup trucks are a fantastic choice for rooftop tents due to their open beds and strong roof structures. They offer flexibility in terms of storage and camping setup, with the roof rack positioned on the cabin while the bed can be used for additional gear.
Suitable Models:
- Toyota Tacoma: A popular choice for overlanders, the Tacoma’s strong roof supports a rooftop tent, and the truck bed offers extra storage for camping gear.
- Ford F-150: Known for its power and capacity, the F-150 is perfect for carrying heavy loads, including rooftop tents and camping gear.
- Toyota Hilux: As a versatile and durable pickup, the Hilux is a common choice for overlanding in tough environments. Safari Cruisers offers one Hilux as safari car rental with rooftop tent.
- Nissan Navara: Known for its off-road capabilities, the Navara supports rooftop tents and handles tough conditions with ease.
- Isuzu D-Max: A reliable workhorse in off-road conditions, this vehicle has the strength and space needed for extended camping trips.
Why Pickup Trucks Work:
- Sturdy Roof Structure: Pickup trucks have reinforced roofs capable of supporting rooftop tents and gear.
- Extra Storage Space: The truck bed can be used for additional camping gear, cooking supplies, or equipment, leaving the rooftop tent purely for sleeping.
- Off-Road Capabilities: Pickup trucks can handle rugged and uneven terrain, making them ideal for adventurous camping trips.
4. Overland and Expedition Vehicles
These vehicles are specially built for extended off-road travel and often come with customized features for overlanding. Overland vehicles are designed for self-sufficient travel over long distances, making them the best option for serious explorers who spend weeks or months on the road.
Suitable Models:
- Land Cruiser 79 Series: Commonly used for overland expeditions in Africa and beyond, this vehicle has the strength to carry heavy gear and withstand rough terrains.
- Toyota Land Cruiser Troop Carrier: Also known as the “Troopy,” it’s a favorite for long-distance overland travel due to its durability and spacious design.
- Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Known for its superior engineering and off-road prowess, the G-Class offers luxury and performance for long expeditions.
Why Overland Vehicles Work:
- Built for Expedition: These vehicles are designed to carry heavy loads, travel on harsh terrain, and offer self-sufficiency for extended periods.
- Customizable Roof Racks: Many overland vehicles come equipped with heavy-duty roof racks capable of supporting large rooftop tents and camping equipment.
- Durability: They are specifically built to withstand the most extreme weather and road conditions, ensuring that your tent and gear stay safe.
What to Consider When Choosing a Vehicle for a Rooftop Tent
1. Roof Load Capacity
Each vehicle has a dynamic load capacity (the amount of weight the roof can handle while driving) and a static load capacity (the weight it can support when stationary). Ensure the vehicle’s roof load capacity is sufficient for both the tent and the people sleeping inside. Most rooftop tents weigh 40-70 kg (88-154 lbs), and a static load capacity of at least 200 kg (440 lbs) is recommended.
2. Roof Rack Compatibility
Ensure that the vehicle has a heavy-duty roof rack that is compatible with the rooftop tent. Many vehicles require aftermarket roof racks designed to handle the additional weight and provide a stable platform.
3. Off-Road Capability
For safari or wilderness camping, a vehicle with high ground clearance, 4WD, and off-road tires is essential. Vehicles with these capabilities will allow you to reach remote and rough terrain while ensuring that the rooftop tent remains stable.
4. Ease of Setup
Some vehicles are easier to set up with rooftop tents due to their height and roof design. For taller vehicles, an easy access telescopic ladder is necessary for convenience when getting in and out of the tent.
Conclusion
Choosing the right vehicle for a rooftop tent depends on the terrain you plan to travel, the weight the vehicle can support, and the level of comfort you need. SUVs, 4x4s, and pickup trucks offer the best balance of strength, space, and off-road capability, making them the top choices for camping with a rooftop tent. Whether you are embarking on a short camping trip or a long safari adventure, ensuring that your vehicle is compatible with a rooftop tent will make your outdoor experience safer and more enjoyable.