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Introduction
Adding a roof top tent to your camper shell can open up a world of exciting new camping possibilities. Whether it’s for quick weekend away or a longer trip, a roof top tent offers added protection from the elements and opens up the possibility of camping in areas and places that would otherwise be inaccessible. It also allows you to get closer to nature, by camping atop your car.
In this guide, we’ll start by discussing the different types of roof tents available and give you advice on choosing the right one for your needs, before moving onto how to fit it securely onto your camper shell. We’ll then look at how to camp safely with your rooftop tent attached, as well as giving you other tips and advice on how to get the most out of this setup. Finally, we’ll take a look at some useful accessories to make life easier when camping with a roof top tent. Hopefully this guide will make setting up your own rooftop tent much more straightforward!
Pros and Cons of Rooftop Tent Camping
Pros:
1. Roof top tents can often be easier to setup than traditional ground tents. This is because they are usually secured onto the vehicle’s roof rack and simply need to be unfolded, instead of requiring many poles and stakes to stand up.
2. Rooftop tents provide more protection from the elements due to their higher elevation, meaning that campers have more shelter from wind and rain while sleeping above the ground.
3. They provide an additional layer of safety since they are elevated, making them difficult for creatures or other potentially unwelcome visitors to reach you in the middle of the night.
4. Roof top tents come with an integrated mattress, saving packers from having to lug around a separate one as well as providing a comfortable place for sleeping—no need for uncomfortable pads or hammocks!
Cons:
1. They are much heavier than traditional ground tents, weighing up to 150 lbs or more depending on size and build quality. This means those carrying them may have difficulty ascending hilly or off-road terrain when fully loaded with gear and equipment.
2. Height restrictions can also be an issue when driving certain roads, tunnels, bridges and overpasses – If your vehicle/tent combination is too tall this may leave you stranded or subject to fines by authorities if caught deviating from posted height requirements which can vary per location jurisdiction (i.e city vs highway).
3. Cost can be prohibitive due to their previous pros – a rooftop tent will cost significantly more than the average backpacking tent due their relative complexity and added durability needed to withstand hauling across hundreds of miles in all weather conditions (assuming it’s form-fitted correctly).
Benefits of Installing a Rooftop Tent on a Camper Shell
Installing a rooftop tent on your camper shell can be a great way to maximize your vehicle’s storage and sleeping space. It can also provide some additional benefits, such as:
1. Increased Safety and Comfort – Rooftop tents can protect you and your passengers from harsh weather conditions like rain or snow, as well as providing additional insulation for temperature control. They also have superior weight-bearing capacity compared to RV campers, which is especially beneficial for off-road vehicles.
2. Versatile Storage Solutions – Rooftop tents are great for utilizing all of the storage space underneath them when needed. With just one unit up top, you can fit all of your camping gear in the rear hatch and still have enough room left over to store bikes, surfboards and other camping supplies beneath the tent.
3. Opportunity To Bundle Items – Unlike traditional RV campers, you don’t necessarily have to buy every single item separately when it comes to rooftop tents on camper shells; many manufacturers offer bundles so you can save money by purchasing everything together in one package.
4. Easy To Install – Installing a rooftop tent on a camper shell is relatively easy; the entire process can usually be completed in an hour or two with just basic tools necessary. Additionally, they’re typically lightweight enough that no special lift assistance is needed when installing them onto vehicles.
Choosing the Right Rooftop Tent for Your Camper Shell
When choosing a rooftop tent for your camper shell, it’s important to consider a few important factors. First of all, you should make sure you have enough space on your existing rack or camper shell roof to mount the tent securely. If your roof is too small, you may need additional mounting hardware and tools to attach the tent safely.
In addition to making sure there’s enough space, you’ll also want to take in account the weight of the tent and the limits of your current set up before mounting it. You don’t want anything weighing down your vehicle’s frame or stressing out any other components.
When selecting materials for your rooftop tent, look for something lightweight yet durable. The material should also be rated for extreme temperature variations and waterproof in order to protect both you and your gear from the elements. Finally, consider how much storage you’ll need inside and what type of doors and windows best accommodate that need.
Choosing the right rooftop tent for your camper shell doesn’t have to be difficult; just keep these few tips in mind! With careful planning and research, you’ll be ready to hit the road with comfortably secure shelter that stands up strong against sun, rain and wind no matter how far away from home base!
Setting Up and Maintaining Your Rooftop Tent
Setting up and maintaining a rooftop tent on camper shell can be quite easy so long as you have the right tools and instructions. First, make sure your vehicle’s roof rack is in good working order to support your rooftop tent. If not, install racks built for weight-bearing cargo that will support your tent. Securely attach the roof rack to the roof of your vehicle with nuts and bolts. After installation, ensure the hardware connections are tight and check all hardware twice more before raising the tent on your camper shell. Make sure it stays securely locked in place when no one is inside; you don’t want it setting up shop somewhere else!
Once it’s secure, you’ll need to do some maintenance periodically. Whenever setting up for a new camping trip, remember to test out all zips and poles so you know they’re secure before loading equipment. You should also check seals around seams and windows for cracks or splits which may require sealant or replacements parts depending on how deep the damage is. Plus, routinely clean off dirt, leaves or debris which can accumulate over time especially after heavy rain or wind storms. When not in use, be ready to store the tent accordingly if necessary; harsh winds in certain locations could possibly damage your tents fabric even when not in use. Fortunately there are so many models on the market today designed specifically for storage convenience even when space is limited – an investment worth considering!
Different Types of Rooftop Tents for Camper Shells
If you’re looking for a more comfortable camping experience and have a camper shell on the back of your vehicle, then investing in a rooftop tent is a great option. Rooftop tents can be easily attached to most camper shells, providing an added layer of camping convenience without taking up extra storage space. There are several types of rooftop tents for camper shells on the market, including pop-up tents, hardshell models, and inflatable varieties.
Pop-up tents come with poles that make them easy to assemble and disassemble when transitioning from campsite to campsite. They provide an enclosed space where you can relax or sleep. Hard shell rooftop tents are light and extremely durable, but they can be heavier than other varieties. They also offer more protection against the elements since they come with an aerodynamic design that helps dramatically reduce wind drag noise at highway speeds. Inflatable models offer superior comfort as they come complete with insulated walls that help regulate interior temperatures and provide insulation against heat loss during cold nights. Each model comes with its own pros and cons, so it’s important to find the one that works best for your needs before making a purchase.
Conclusion
There are many wonderful benefits to owning a rooftop tent on your camper shell. You can enjoy the convenience of having a quick and comfortable place to stay without making any big investments in camping gear. Additionally, this setup gives you the opportunity to explore unique camping spots with an unbeatable view. Furthermore, installing a rooftop tent is safer and more secure than traditional ground camping, eliminating the worry associated with wild animals and other potential threats. Finally, you can travel light and be ready to explore at any time. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or just taking a weekend getaway, owning a camper shell with a rooftop tent offers an easy way to camp that ensures comfort and security.
