If you’ve never slept in a rooftop tent, it’s hard to imagine how different it is from sleeping in a traditional tent. In general, weve found that rooftop tent sleeping has certain key advantages over sleeping in a tent on the ground. Rooftop tents offer a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings, airflow that’s unheard of in a ground tent, protection (and peace of mind), and generally superior comfort.

　　After hundreds of nights of elevated sleeping and hours of poring over specs, expert tester Berne Brody has decided that the rooftop tents on this list are the best of the best. Not every rooftop tent fits every vehicle or every budget, so we cover a range of sizes and price points, with the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Mini being our favorite, while the Topoak Galaxy 1.0 is an awesome, less expensive alternative. Rooftop tents are all pricier than even the plushest backpacking tent, but if you’re able to invest, you won’t regret it.

　　In recent years, the GearJunkie team and our greater network of expert gear testers have researched and sampled all of the leading styles on the market. Weve used these tents for overlanding, car camping, and cross-country road tripping. Weve closely examined their features at trade shows and expos in far-flung corners of the globe.

　　Editors Note: Updated February 28th, 2025 to be fresh for spring adventuring, weve added our new favorite soft shell model, the Thule Approach M. We also included the Topoak Galaxy 1.0, a great RTT at a great price.

　　The Best Rooftop Tents of 2025 Best Rooftop Tent for Small Cars: iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Mini Best Budget Rooftop Tent: Topoak Galaxy 1.0 Best Rooftop Tent for Headroom: Roofnest Sparrow EYE 2 Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent: Thule ApproachM Best 3-Person Rooftop Tent: Yakima SkyRise HD Best Four Season Rooftop Tent: Roofnest Falcon 3 EVO Best Rooftop Tent for Overlanding: iKamper BDV Duo iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Mini $3,699 at REICheck Price at Backcountry

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 102 x 101 x 48 Dimensions closed: 57.5 x 55 x 13 Sleeping footprint: 83 x 51 Peak internal height: 46.5 Weight: 125 lbs. Static weight capacity: N/A Minimum bar spread: N/A Pros Fits all vehicles Ultrafast setup Cons Mattress may be too firm for some campers Berne Broudy The aerodynamic and lightweight Skycamp Mini 3.0 ($3,979) will fit any car you want to put it on, right down to a Mini Cooper. It’s also one of the easiest rooftop tents to deploy — setup takes less than a minute, and so does takedown.

　　It has a hardshell cover that flips open to become one wall of the tent, the only wall without a window. That wall is lined with a quilted panel printed with a world map. The quilting helps manage condensation, while the world map inspires tent dwellers to dream up their next adventure. Plus, the sidewalls, front, and ceiling of the tent all have oversized canopy windows for weather-protected airflow and great views.

　　The Skycamp Mini 3.0 is made from breathable blackout polycotton canvas with a waterproof polyester rainfly. The fly detaches for better airflow and uninterrupted views. In a storm, you’ll appreciate the fly’s waterproof zippers. And because there’s no vinyl coating on the tent or the fly, this tent is more breathable with less condensation than many others. It’s also quieter in the wind.

　　The base of the tent is made with honeycomb aluminum panels that capture air for extra insulation. A 2.25-inch firm polyfoam mattress rests on top of the honeycomb floor. If you like a firm mattress, you’ll love this setup. But if you don’t, you can always buy a softer aftermarket mattress and swap it out.

　　To get into the tent, climb iKamper’s integrated telescoping ladder. With the ladder attached to the tent, its rungs run parallel to the ground. This makes climbing the ladder both safer and more comfortable than climbing other rooftop tent ladders. On other tents, when the ladder leans against the tent, the ladder rungs are angled.

　　The Skycamp Mini 3.0 gives folks a choice of tent shell finishes. No matter which finish you choose, the 3.0s shell is made from insulated, fiber-reinforced, double-layer plastic that’s soundproof and condensation-resistant.

　　This tent mounts to a roof rack with iKamper’s quick-to-tighten version 3.0 brackets that are compatible with a broad range of crossbar sizes. For higher crossbars, use iKamper’s version 1.0 mounting brackets. You can also personalize your Skycamp Mini 3.0 with accessories. Options include an annex or awning, storage racks, and bracket locks that secure the closing straps.

　　If you drive a small car, are shopping for a tent for a short-bed truck, or want to mount a rooftop tent on your truck cab, the iKamper Skycamp Mini 3.0 is one of the best options available.

　　Best Budget Rooftop Tent Topoak Galaxy 1.0 $1,299 at AmazonCheck Price at Topoak

　　(Photo/Topoak) Specifications Dimensions open: 83 × 56 × 53 Dimensions closed: 83 × 56 × 8 Sleeping footprint: 79 × 52 Peak internal height: 53 Weight: 176 lbs. Static weight capacity: N/A Minimum bar spread: 30 Pros Great price Spacious interior volume Ample interior storage options Aluminum hardshell at this price point Cons No locking options Handwheels for installation brackets come loose easily Locking buckles could be prone to breakage Berne Broudy Read Review: Best Value Rooftop Tent Weve Tested: Topoak Galaxy 1.0 Review A worthy tent and a screaming deal, the Topoak Galaxy 1.0 ($1,300) easily snags our best-value pick. It has many of the same features as more expensive models, and set up and take down is a breeze. For folks on a budget or who are only looking to get out a few nights a year, this is an excellent choice.

　　GearJunkie editor Seiji Ishii put the Galaxy to the test with the help of his daughter and canine friend. They encountered mild temperatures and light precipitation. Between the Galaxy’s ample venting options and solid construction, they remained comfortable throughout the trip. 

　　The Galaxy has a unique internal U-bar that swings up and rearward, creating a more spacious feel than the standard wedge-shaped tent. Under this expansive canopy is a  79″ x 52″ sleeping space with a 2-inch foam mattress, and a suspended panel with 6 storage pockets. Additional storage pockets are located on each wall. The storage keeps the tent clutter-free and organized, and makes it feel bigger than it actually is.

　　USB-powered strip lights keep the tent illuminated for easy night-time visibility, and the tent arrives with a telescoping ladder and a very useful shoe bag that hangs outside the tent. Your muddy shoes can remain dry and accessible all night, but don’t need to go inside the tent.

　　Setup and takedown proved easy the first time around, and after some practice, Seiji found he could set up the tent in about 2 minutes and have it packed away in 5. His main caveats for this tent pertain to the hardshell closure buckles, which became difficult to latch after a few uses. Seiji also needed to swap out the handwheels that screw the tent to the crossbars with nylock nuts, as they repeatedly came loose. An inexpensive fix, but also a serious point of failure. Always check that anything on your roof rack is securely attached before you drive.

　　Gripes aside, the Galaxy is an awesome RTT for the money. Even if you need to throw down an extra sleeping pad for more cushioning or swap out the handwheels on the crossbar, you’re getting a whole lot of tent for your dollar.

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 84 x 48″ x 40 Dimensions closed: 85 x 50 x 11.5 Sleeping footprint: 83 x 49 Peak internal height: 44 Weight: 130 lbs. Static weight capacity: 650 lbs. Minimum bar spread: 28 Pros Tent-top storage bag included Solar panel mount on the roof Super easy to open Cons 270-degree views, not 360 degrees The low ceiling at the foot cuts down on internal storage space Berne Broudy Recently redesigned, Roofnest’s two-person, pop-up Sparrow EYE 2 ($2,995) has a taller peak than tents that lift in all four corners. This one is also super easy to open, even with gear storage on top.

　　By opting for a wedge shape instead of a tent that lifts in the tip and tail, you save weight and get a simple setup. A wedge tent only needs lifting struts at one end. Plus, the wedge stands up better against heavy wind and rain. Unclip the latch on the back, and the Sparrow EYE 2 opens with a gentle nudge to activate the struts on the front end. There are no tent poles to fiddle with and only one awning to prop up.

　　The massive door and side windows keep the inside of the tent breezy and cool, even without a fourth wall. Both side windows can also be used as doors, although they don’t have awnings. Zip them closed in a rainstorm, and you do lose some airflow.

　　The tent’s fiberglass-reinforced ABS shell is molded to be aerodynamic for best-in-class gas mileage and reduced road noise. The inside of the shell is insulated and lined with a quilted, condensation-busting fabric that also reduces noise and gives the inside of the tent a cozy den-like feel. Also inside is a 2.8-inch foam mattress that Roofnest claims will rival the comfort of your bed at home.

　　The tent portion of the Sparrow EYE is a breathable polyurethane-coated polyester and cotton blend that’s touted as three times more waterproof than most backpacking tents. It gives the tent a sturdy, protective, and secure feel, more like a safari tent than a backpacking tent.

　　In cool temps, the rugged side walls are insulating, and in the wind, they cut down on noise. The Sparrow EYE 2s dual side windows and its door have zippered mesh and zippered canvas covers for customizable bug-proofing, rain repellency, and airflow.

　　An 8.5-foot telescoping ladder clips onto the tent under any window or door opening. While it doesn’t store inside the tent for travel, it comes with a storage bag. This bag attaches to the roof gear storage zone on top of the tent for travel if you don’t want to pack it into your trunk. The rooftop bag can also be used to hold cooking gear, wet clothes, and other things you don’t want inside your car.

　　Also, on the roof of the Roofnest Sparrow EYE 2, there’s a dedicated spot to mount a solar panel. Mount one, and then park strategically so that the roof faces south and you’re generating max wattage.

　　Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Thule Approach M Check Price At Backcountry

　　(Photo/Thule) Specifications Closed dimensions: 49 x 56 x11 Open dimensions: 95 x 56 x 40 Weight: 128 lbs. Canopy material: 600D water-resistant polyester Rainfly material: Thermoplastic-coated nylon Cover material: Rubber-coated Cordura nylon Pros Super-easy and quick to deploy and stow Cavernous interior for a 2+ person tent Very comfortable foam flooring Extremely robust and weatherproof construction Easy to install for an rooftop tent Cons Travel cover completely separates from the tent Ladder was very uncomfortable for bare feet Rainfly a bit challenging to install Berne Broudy Read Review: Cartop Glamping: Thule Approach M Rooftop Tent Review The Thule Approach M ($2,500) is a soft shell RTT that’s light, spacious, weatherproof, and relatively easy to set up. While it has a bigger footprint and slightly more complicated setup than our favorite hardshell models, the Approach M shows that the older Tepui-style designs still have their advantages.

　　Editor and gear tester extraordinaire Seiji Ishii had this RTT on his vehicle for 4 months, and he used it in a variety of conditions and temperatures. He found the Initial setup rivals any of the hardshell models, and Seiji could be ready to crawl inside in approximately 2 minutes after parking. Weatherproofing is more involved, as securing the rainfly is a little bit more difficult than with a tent that’s on the ground. Once the rainfly is up, the tent is solidly protected against the elements. You can open large, mosquito-netted vents for stargazing once the weather gets good again. 

　　Thule states that this tent is big enough for two adults and a child. We feel like that’s a stretch because at 4.5 wide, that’s 1.5 feet per person. However, it’s a luxurious amount of space for two adults, and it’s 11 feet long, so there’s plenty of room for a dog to curl up at your feet. The dual-density foam mattress is one of the most comfortable we’ve tested, and the 40.2” internal height feels spacious. The vertical walls at the front and rear of the tent add plenty of headroom.

　　Packing the tent away is easier than some of the hard shell models we’ve tested. It took Seiji just 4 minutes to get it stowed away, and he appreciated that he didn’t need to walk around his vehicle stuffing the fabric inside as he’d need to do with a hardshell tent. The tent cover zips on easily but securely, and the bar attachment points are top-notch, as we’d expect from Thule.

　　The Approach M proves that the softshell RTT is still an awesome design and can be just as durable and easy to set up (and a little more affordable) than the sleeker hardshell models. 

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 96 x 56 x 48 Dimensions closed: 58 x 48 x 17 Sleeping footprint: N/A Peak internal height: N/A Weight: 115 lbs. Static weight capacity: N/A Minimum bar spread: 26 Pros Super easy to mount Locks securely to your roof Cons Lighter fabrics flap more on windy nights Berne Broudy Two of the biggest barriers to entry for campers considering rooftop tents are weight and price. Yakima’s SkyRise HD ($2,499) is not only relatively light, but it’s also competitively priced for a three-person tent. And it’s the most similar to backpacking and car camping tents that many backcountry enthusiasts are already familiar with.

　　The SkyRise is made from the same stuff as most tents you’d pitch on the ground. The 600D nylon tent body is light and breathable, with mesh ventilation panels that double as windows into the Milky Way. All the windows and the two skylights have mesh panels that zip open for ventilation and views.

　　Much like a standard ground tent, the SkyRise’s waterproof fly is polyurethane-coated, and the tent can be set up with the fly on or off. Aluminum poles give the tent structure. They’re strong, preset, and easy to engage once you manually flip this tent open.

　　Consider a three-person tent if you’ll be sleeping with a child. This is also a good option if you’re a dog owner whose dog climbs ladders, or if youre willing to shuttle your pooch into your rooftop nest. Everyone will appreciate the plush, 2.5-inch-thick, wall-to-wall mattress. And after this tent gets some use, you’ll also appreciate that the mattress has a removable cover for easy cleaning. 

　　The Yakima SkyRise HD is one of the easiest tents to mount on a roof rack. It goes on and comes off tool-free. It also locks to your roof with the same system used in all Yakima bars and mounts, SKS lock cores, which are included with the tent.

　　Best Four-Season Rooftop Tent Roofnest Falcon 3 EVO Check price at Roofnest

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 83” x 50” x 58” Dimensions closed: 83” x 50” x 8” Sleeping footprint: 80” x 47” Peak internal height: 58” Weight: 140 lbs. Static weight capacity: 650 lbs. Minimum bar spread: N/A Pros Four-season ready Extra aerodynamic Super slim but able to store bedding Optional insulation kit Available in XL Cons One of the pricier tents Berne Broudy Read Review: The Falcon 3 EVO

　　The shortest, slimmest, sturdiest, warmest, roomiest, and most aerodynamic Roofnest clamshell the company has ever made, Roofnest’s Falcon 3 EVO ($3,495) is also exceptionally aerodynamic with more liveable space once it’s set up than other comparable tents, according to Roofnest. 

　　Flick open the new easy-to-use and super-secure cam-over latches, push the tent open, and flip up the new U-bar, the same used in Roofnest’s Falcon Pro, and enter your home away from home. Inside, the living space is more than a third larger than the Falcon 2, 5 inches shorter, and 20 pounds lighter.

　　The tent fabric is a thick 320 GSM with a blackout coating perfect for sleeping in whatever time zone or latitude you find yourself in. The standard 2.0-inch-thick memory foam mattress has a quilted cover over a standard anti-condensation mat. Two side windows, an overhead moonroof, and twin meter-long dimmable LED light strips provide light. 

　　The Falcon 3 EVO combines the best features of the all-aluminum Falcon 2 and Falcon Pro clamshell rooftop tents with the weather-proof and rugged construction previously only found in Roofnest’s Condor 2 foldout tents. It’s shorter, lighter weight, with a pleasantly large living space, and a more aerodynamic shape when packed. It can sleep campers up to 6’2”. 

　　Falcon 3 EVO’s top shell is PC-ABS plastic finished with a scratch, dent, and UV-resistant Line-X coating. On your roof, it’s 3 inches thick at the edges and 8 inches at its peak. The molded, convex shape of the top shell increases this tent’s structural rigidity and internal space while achieving new levels of aerodynamics for a rooftop tent.

　　Forming the top shell from PC-ABS plastic instead of aluminum has multiple advantages. Extruded plastic makes the shell flexible and naturally weather-resistant, and it lowers the overall tent weight. What’s more, PC-ABS is ten times more insulative than aluminum. Not only does this keep campers warmer, but it also reduces condensation build-up.

　　To make sure you have what you need to fully enjoy this tent in all seasons, Roofnest sells a “Tent Insulation” kit for the Falcon 3. It zips into the interior of the tent without blocking LED light strips, gear grids, or storage pockets. It also has ports for heating and cooling. 

　　Both the Falcon 3 EVO’s PC-ABS top and honeycomb aluminum bottom shells each feature an exterior accessory channel. The top channel is compatible with the optional 6-Channel Crossbars, which can hold up to 150 pounds of gear. The Falcon 3 EVO’s aluminum bottom shell’s single accessory exterior accessory channel can support awnings up to 75 pounds, using Roofnest’s new accessory awning brackets.

　　Best Rooftop Tent for Overlanding iKamper BDV Duo $2,799 at REI

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 59” x 90” x 56” Dimensions closed: 6¾” x 90” x 56” Sleeping footprint: 83¾ x 53¾ Weight: 200 lbs. Static weight capacity: N/A Minimum bar spread: N/A Pros Four-season Spacious Super-fast setup Low condensation Loads of accessories Low profile — under 7” Cons Heavy Can sleep in only one direction One set of ladder pins has to be moved to relocate ladder Berne Broudy Read Review: The iKamper BVD Duo

　　A true four-season rooftop tent, iKamper’s BDV Duo ($2,799) impressed us with its comfort, its ruggedness, and how quick it was to set it up and break it down. Of the tents we tested for this roundup, it was the fastest to set up and pack up, though it also took the longest to install the first time we put it on the truck roof. This tent is best suited for rugged overlanding use but is just as awesome for casual campers as long as your roof rack can handle the tents weight plus people. 

　　iKamper’s BDV Duo has the fastest tent to set up weve seen. Two heavy-duty clips at the back of the tent unclip, and with a nudge, the ABS shell top pops up boosted by two large, external hydraulic lifters. An external bungee slides down. It assists in pulling the sides of the tent down when it’s time to pack it up.

　　Two knurled awnings stay inserted into machined holes in the back of the tent to prop out the awning/rainfly. It’s built on a rugged aluminum frame with a strong, scratch/UV-resistant fiber-reinforced plastic shell, and attached to the tent base with massive aluminum hinges. 

　　Inside, the tent is spacious with loads of headroom, and enough length that one 6’4” sleeper who tested this tent said it was awesome. Windows and doors create a fully blacked-out environment when closed. The tent fabric is breathable, black-out, 300gsm poly-cotton canvas.

　　With the windows open, being in the tent is like being outside, but high up and in the shade. The awning is also a rainfly. Its made from waterproof polyester 75D ripstop material with an eco-friendly water-repellent (DWR) coating. Toggles let us tighten it for wind resistance when needed. 

　　The bed is plush with a quilted mattress cover, and cottony-feeling fabric throughout, which seemed to trap condensation less than in other tents. Large wedge mesh pockets helped us keep track of clothing, headlamps, and other accessories.

　　But there was plenty of space for a couple of small duffels or a dog not too greedy with space inside as well as two occupants. Because the gas struts that lift the camper roof are on the outside, all the inside space was usable. 

　　The ladder can be moved to either side or the back of the tent, but there is only one set of quick-release ladder pins that lock on the ladder, so the process takes a few minutes of uninstalling and reinstalling those pins for the switch. 

　　iKamper makes loads of accessories for this tent, and we were lucky enough to test several. The annex is spacious and turned the BDV Duo into a full basecamp setup that was pleasant to use during sunny days and frosty nights. The annex, which zips to the BDV Duo, vented or sealed up as preferred, is quite spacious inside.

　　For cold weather, we recommend getting iKamper’s clear windows. They zip over the mesh and light-blocking window panels so that you can have light and block the weather. The clear windows have center zips so you can also use them as doors. We look forward to loading up iKamper’s BDV Accessory rack, which can hold up to 110 pounds. 

　　This tent is best for trucks or SUVs. Check out our top choice, the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Mini, if you have a smaller vehicle.

　　Other Excellent RTTs The following tents are all worthy contenders that fell just short of the top spots. However, one of them may be the best RTT for your specific needs.

　　Thule Tepui Foothill $1,700 at REI

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 84 x 47 x 40 Dimensions closed: 83 x 24 x 9.5 Sleeping footprint: 84 x 47 Peak internal height: 38 Weight: 108 lbs. Static weight capacity: 400 lbs. Minimum bar spread: 24 Pros Spacious Room for gear on the roof Cons No compatible vestibule Cumbersome for a two-person tent Ladder can’t be stored inside the packed tent Berne Broudy Read Review: The Thule Tepui Foothill

　　Thule’s spacious two-person Foothill ($2,000) is a rooftop tent that deploys compactly, so there’s still plenty of space on your roof rack for bikes, kayaks, and cargo. The symmetrical Foothill, which Thule says is half the width of other rooftop tents, can be mounted on either side of your rack. While not cheap, the foothill is quite a bit less expensive than some of its competitors, while still being a quality option.

　　Folded, it’s low-profile, with a soft cover and a new base that cuts weight but adds strength and stability. Unzipped and unclipped, it’s easy to set up with telescoping internal poles that click into place.

　　The Foothill’s wide door left plenty of space to climb in and out of this tent while carrying a duffel bag. Paired with its panoramic rear window and dual skylights, the tent had superb airflow, even on sweltering hot nights. And it provided stargazing from every angle.

　　Inside, Thule outfits this tent with a high-density foam mattress that practically guarantees sweet dreams. Four internal pockets hold a book, headlamp, and other small items. If you want to get fancy, buy Thule’s 310-thread-count fitted sheets that fit the mattress perfectly. You can also choose Tepui’s insulator, a quilted liner that gives the tent extra insulation for four-season use. Both are sold separately.

　　The Foothill’s canopy fabric is UV- and mold-resistant, designed to be used year-round. In wet weather, the rainfly attaches quickly. And when you just want air and to see the stars, it folds down and away.

　　When you’re not using it, the Foothill takes about 10 minutes to remove from the car. It attaches and detaches with four brackets that tighten with a 13mm wrench. Packed for travel, it sits about 9.5 inches taller than a car’s roof rack. Since it only takes up half of your roof space, it needs to be packed down pretty tight. Even leaving bedding in the tent made for a very tight fit when packing it away, so you’ll need to make sure there’s space in your car.

　　If you want a bigger sleeping area and a little more headroom, the Smittybilt Gen 2 Overlander Tent XL is a little bit larger for about the same price as the Foothill, but the Foothill is a much higher quality tent.

　　Dometic TRT 140 Air Check price at Dometic$1,500 at Amazon

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 86” x 57” x 45” Dimensions closed: 86” x 57” x 13” Sleeping footprint: N/A Peak internal height: N/A Weight: 103.7 lbs. Static weight capacity: N/A Minimum bar spread: 28” Pros Anti-condensation mat under the mattress Thin and comfortable mattress Inside and outside storage pockets One of the best-vented RTTs Sets up fast Extremely compact The lightest RTT in this roundup Tool-free installation Compatible with accessory crossbars Cons No space for blankets and pillows inside the folded tent Like anything inflatable, one of the tubes could get a hole if you’re not careful Louder than some others on the roof Ladder stores outside the tent Berne Broudy The first air-inflated rooftop tent to meet our tough standards for durability, ease of use, and comfort, Dometic’s 140 Air ($2,500) is a light and compact tent that’s as good for compact vehicles as it is for trucks. It has comfortable internal space for two, a super fast setup, and clever weatherproof external pockets for storage.

　　At just over 100 pounds, it’s a modest lift for two people, especially if you’re putting this tent on a lower-roofed car. It folds into thirds, so it takes up less room on the roof than other RTTs. And installation is tool-free. Once the ladder is installed — it attaches with two spring-loaded pins — it can stay outside the tent under the RTT cover, which slides over the folded tent and bungees to the attachment thumbscrews on the underside. 

　　Unlike other RTT ladders, this one has a bottom section that deploys first and extends to its full length. The upper section of the ladder, which is adjusted with separate release buttons, can be set to any of four heights depending on the height of your roof. 

　　This is the first air-inflated tent weve used, and once the cover is off and the side clips unclipped, the two sides of the tent unfold like unwrapping a burrito. That takes about a minute. And the tent takes about two minutes to inflate. The included 12v pump plugs into your car’s outlet.

　　Once the pump is on, it hits 3 PSI in about a minute, and the recommended 9 PSI within 2 minutes. The pictographic installation instructions are easy to follow, and if you need better instructions, there are plenty of video tutorials on installing this tent. 

　　Though 140 Air takes up less space on the roof, the remaining space isn’t usable like it is with an RTT like Thule’s Tepui Foothill, which leaves room for a bike or a narrow roof box depending on the length of your roof rack bars.  

　　This is an extremely airy and breathable RTT. The 30D brushed ripstop polyester shell traps condensation less than a standard nylon or polyester tent shell. Side mesh picture windows, the highly vented front door and back window, and a large roof vent provide more airflow than any other tent I’ve used.

　　The two side windows take up the full wall. The tent gives its occupants a 360-degree view. Overhangs on the windows pop out when the tent is inflated. They’re waterproof to keep the weather out. 

　　The tent has four smaller internal storage pockets big enough for an iPad, a headlamp, or a small water bottle. It also has two weather-resistant oversized outdoor pockets, one at either side of the entrance. If you’ve ever wondered where to put your shoes when you’re in the tent, now you have another option. Having shoes up high makes descending the ladder a lot more comfortable. 

　　The included mattress is thin and extremely comfortable. It stays inside the tent when you pack it up, and there’s room to leave a sheet on it too. But youll need to take out your comforter/sleeping bags and pillows when you pack the tent to drive away.

　　The roof has a massive mesh roof pocket that’s also a roof vent. Ceiling hooks hold a small lantern or string of lights. In hot weather, this tent fully ventilates, and in cold and rain, it buttons up to keep you sheltered from the storm. Adding Dometic’s aftermarket awning gives this compact tent living space for cooking and hanging out that the tent itself doesn’t provide. 

　　If youre weary of heavy tents with complex setups, the Dometic 140 Air could be the rooftop tent youre looking for.

　　Sylvan Sport Loft Check price at SylvanSport

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 82.6” x 50.7” x 41.3” Dimensions closed: 82.6” x 50.7” x 11” Sleeping footprint: 48 x 80 Peak internal height: 39 Weight: 116.8 lbs Static weight capacity: 480 lbs Minimum bar spread: n/a Pros Compact enough to fit on most vehicles Sets up and packs down fast Massive ceiling storage nets Comes with a fan/light combo Cons Windows are smaller than in other RTTs Mattress is more basic than some other RTTs Mounting hardware is more basic than on some RTTs and it requires tools Internal storage pockets are hidden behind hydraulic arms Ceiling storage nets take up headroom Berne Broudy A compact pod of a rooftop tent, Sylvan Sport’s Loft ($2,195) is a lightweight rooftop tent with a near-instant setup and an aerodynamic molded, composite ABS shell that protects the tent inside from weather when it’s on top of your car. 

　　The tent opens in seconds with four hydraulic assist arms. The arms are inside the tent and covered in fabric. They hold up the ceiling of the tent, which has vertical sidewalls. Once you’re inside, large openings on every wall provide ventilation and views. The windows aren’t quite as large as in most other tents, so Sylvan Sport includes a fan to keep air circulating. Awnings over the side windows provide shade and weather protection. 

　　The Loft tent material is lighter than most of the other tents in this guide, though it has a polyurethane coating for weather resistance. Inside, the Loft comes with a covered two-inch thick foam sleeping pad. Because of the mattresses’ low profile, there’s plenty of room inside to use it almost like a roof box for storage. As is becoming more common, the Loft’s mattress comes with an anti-condensation mat underneath the mattress to keep it from trapping moisture and getting moldy. 

　　One of our favorite features of the Loft is the massive two-bay storage mesh against the ceiling of this rooftop tent. We took one side down so that we had full headroom. But we left the mesh hammock on the foot side of the tent to hold clothes and more. 

　　Packing up the loft was just as easy as setting it up. Front and back buckles clip. Extra fabric tucks in, and the sides clip and Velcro shut. 

　　Roofnest Sparrow 2 check price at roofnest

　　Specifications Dimensions open: 84” x 48” x 40” Dimensions closed: 85 x 51″ Sleeping footprint: 84 x 48 Peak internal height: 40” Weight: 130 lbs Static weight capacity: 650 lbs. Minimum bar spread: n/a Pros The redesigned shell has internal ribs for increased structural integrity Ruggedized ABS shell with Line-X ruggedized anti-scratch coating Bedding fits inside Can support Roofnest’s crossbar system that holds up to 160 lbs of cargo on top 2.8” memory foam mattress Cons On a car without a rear bumper, it’s hard to get to the ratcheting close strap The hook ladder has to be removed before closing the tent which makes it hard for shorter people to close the tent Berne Broudy The hardshell, pop-up Roofnest Sparrow 2 ($2,995), a staple in Roofnest’s lineup has recently been upgraded. It still has the 360° views and venting, and the delightfully spacious and livable, interior. Vertical sidewalls make it super livable inside. Most other tent features have been redesigned, improved, and overhauled. The tent fabric is now 320 GSM blackout material for a good night’s sleep in any time zone at any time of day. The tent shell has been ruggedized with internal ribs for increased structural integrity. That makes it compatible with Roofnest’s crossbar accessory, which can support up to 160 pounds. The shell has been treated with a Line-X coating that adds durability and resists scratching. 

　　Inside, there are just as many upgrades. The tent now comes with a 2.8” high-density foam mattress with a washable cover. 

　　HVAC ports make the Roofnest Sparrow 2 climate-controllable. The tent can be both heated and cooled, and the ports can also be used as a cord passthrough if needed. The tent comes with three dimmable LED light strips. 

　　Unique to the Roofnest Sparrow is the option to lock your tent closed. The shell has heavy-duty lockable latches so you can secure whatever you left inside–bedding, pillows, and more. 

　　The tent attaches to a car roof rack tool-free. Once the tent is on the rack, the aluminum extruded bars in its base don’t need endcaps because they’re hidden below the tent.

　　Rooftop Tent Comparison Table

　　Testing the Thule Tepui in wet autumn conditions; (photo/Berne Broudy) The GearJunkie team is composed of overlanders, auto experts, and seasoned car camping fanatics. Over many years, we have tried and rigorously tested nearly every kind of camping gear on the market — including rooftop tents.

　　Our lead tester for rooftop tents is Berne Broudy. Based in Vermont, Berne has amassed over 20+ years of hiking, cycling, climbing, ski touring, and overlanding. Berne’s broad portfolio of outdoor activities has added up to many nights of camping outdoors — many spent in a rooftop tent.

　　To compile this list of the best rooftop tents, Berne and the rest of our team combed the market and compared the pros, cons, and specs of dozens of models. We’ve mounted tents on rigs of all shapes and sizes — from compact sedans to full-sized trucks. We’ve spent many nights — some glorious and others full of tosses and turns — testing the quality and comfort of rooftop tent mattresses.

　　Our assessment process is detail-oriented. No subtle feature or flaw goes unnoticed. On this list, we’ve included a wide variety of excellent rooftop tents to meet all sorts of needs. From compact SUV drivers to large-family road trippers, at least one of the models on this list should be a good fit.

　　For more info on car camping options, take a look at GearJunkies guide to truck campers and motorhomes.

　　Checking out the window awnings on the Roofnest Sparrow 2 (photo/Berne Broudy) Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Rooftop Tent

　　What Fits Your Vehicle? Not every rooftop tent will fit every vehicle. Know the load capacity of your roof rack, and the distance between your roof rack bars to determine if a specific rooftop tent will fit. The spread of the bars is the distance between the front roof rack crossbar and the back one. Most rooftop tents have a “minimum bar spread” spec. Before purchasing a rooftop tent, be sure to physically measure your rack’s spread to ensure your rack and tent are a match.

　　When in doubt, contact the rooftop tent manufacturer and verify that your planned setup will be safe and sound. Many tents on this list can work with sedans, trucks, trailers, and everything in between — provided you’ve got the proper rack and mounting system.

　　With a rooftop tent, you can comfortably camp anywhere you park your vehicle; (photo/Berne Broudy) What Else Do You Need to Carry? Some rooftop tents require you to carry the access ladder inside your car. Other tents incorporate the ladder directly into the tent’s packed-away design. Some tents have accessory options, including awnings and extensions. Typically, these will need to be stored separately inside a car or truck bed.

　　As for sleeping bags, and pillows, many rooftop tents can be fully folded and tucked away with the bedding stored inside. This feature is more common in hardshell models.

　　Some rooftop tents with smaller footprints leave extra space on your roof for bikes, boats, and other gear. Of course, the square footage of your leftover roof space will depend on the size of the tent and the dimensions of your rack.

　　Some hardshell rooftop tents provide gear storage on top or space to mount a solar panel. In most cases, you’ll need to purchase additional racks to utilize the roof of your tent’s shell for storage space.

　　Hardshell vs. Softshell Hardshell rooftop tents are sleeker looking when compressed and more aerodynamic. They also tend to be lower clearance when packed — an important consideration for those planning to park in a garage.

　　In general, hardshell rooftop tents are quick and easy to set up and pack up. Most come use hydraulic struts that do most of the heavy lifting for you. Softshell tents typically come with traditional aluminum or fiberglass poles that require assembly. Inflatable tents are relatively new to the market. They’re almost as quick and easy to set up as a hardshell, and can be spacious inside.

　　Some hardshells have useable storage space on top of the outer shell. But many are wedge-shaped and don’t give you 360-degree views.

　　Softshell rooftop tents are generally similar to traditional camping tents. They tend to be less expensive and harder to set up. But they usually have great airflow and some are large enough to accommodate three to five people.

　　Space vs. Weight Rooftop tents typically sleep two to five people and fit a double to a king-size mattress. The bigger the tent and mattress, the heavier and more cumbersome the rooftop tent.

　　Most rooftop tents weigh between 100 and 200 pounds — an important spec to know, especially in relation to your roof rack’s recommended capacity. For a family of three or a couple with a dog, we like the Roofnest Falcon 3 — a roomy and comfortable option with a plush wall-to-wall mattress.

　　If your roof space is limited and you’re looking for a svelte on your roof, full size when unfurled sleeper, the Dometic TRT 140 Air is compact and well suited to smaller rooftops.

　　The Dometic TRT 140 Air gets structural support from inflatable tubes. (photo/Berne Broudy) Manual vs. Automatic Opening Some hardshell rooftop tents lift with a gentle nudge, whereas most softshells have to be flipped open manually and the awning bars inserted. Rooftop tents with gas struts that lift the tent open are becoming more common. They often cost more, but they’re convenient — especially when you’re setting up your tent in the rain.

　　Whatever tent you buy, initial assembly can be challenging with a steep learning curve. Some tents offer the option to ship fully unassembled. That can save you up to $400, and it can take hours and tools to build the tent platform and attach the tent to it before you load it on your roof.

　　Once assembled, rooftop tents require a heavy lift to get the tent onto a vehicle’s roof rack. Pan to get a hand from a friend or two depending on the weight of the tent and the height of your roof. While you can repeatedly install and uninstall, it’s always an awkward operation.

　　(Photo/Berne Broudy) Durability Rooftop tents are a major investment — they can cost up to $5,000. Take care of your investment, and it will last for many years.

　　We recommend storing your rooftop tent in a dry, covered place when not in use. When the tent isn’t on your roof, place 2x4s or 4x4s on saw horses to mimic your roof bars and store the tent on top in the same orientation that the tent was on your roof. Go easy on the zippers, struts, ladders, and poles — these intricate mechanical components tend to break first. And always thoroughly dry the inside of your tent after use.

　　In our experience, all of the rooftop tents on this list offer competitive durability when properly cared for.

　　Take extra care with moving parts such as ladders and gas struts; (photo/Berne Broudy) Price Value Rooftop tents are more expensive than most ground-staked tents because of the materials required to build them. Theyre built on a strong and stable base. In some cases, that base folds for storage without losing structural integrity. Rooftop tents must withstand weather off the ground, where winds and rain can be severe. And they have to be weather-proof as a semi-permanent fixture on your roof.

　　That’s a whole lot more complicated than creating a structure with a fabric floor that gets placed on the ground. Size, ease of setup, and features all affect how a tent is priced. Remember, these tents are on the roof of your car as youre barrelling down the highway, so for safety, they need to be secure and durable.

　　Budget The least expensive tents (sub-$2,000) in our guide have a soft shell and usually take longer to set up and take down. Our budget pick, the Topoak Galaxy1.0($1,299), has a great feature set and is very easy to set up and take down.

　　Mid-Tier In the middle price range ($2,000-3,000), youll start to see some hardshell models that set up fast and easily. The Sylvan Sport’s Loft($2,195) is lightweight, and sets up and packs away quickly. It also includes a fan to maintain airflow from comfort and moisture control.

　　The Yakima SkyRise HD ($2,499) is a soft-shell tent, but it has room for three. The Thule Approach M ($2,500) is our favorite two person softshell with a great mattress and bomb-proof rainfly. Tents in the middle range use lighter materials and arent insulated, so youll need to spend more if you want better long-term durability and winter camping options.

　　Premium The premium tier ($3,000 and up) will get you the full-on go-anywhere-anytime convenience that youd expect from a rooftop tent. These tents are made from polyurethane-coated polyester and cotton blends like those found on wall tents, are insulated (or at least have the option) and once theyre mounted, set up and take down is a breeze.

　　Our top pick, theSkycamp Mini 3.0($3,979), has a waterproof cotton-poly shell that keeps the inside dark in the daytime (looking at you, festival goers), big windows, awnings, and plenty of headroom. The RoofnestFalcon 3 EVO($3,495) is of similar quality and has internal LED lighting, an optional insulation kit, and optional rack mounts so you can store even more gear on top.

　　Frequently Asked Questions What is the benefit of a rooftop tent? Rooftop tents get you off the ground, providing a great view. In most situations, they also provide more airflow than you’ll get when you’re sleeping in a tent on the ground.

　　When your tent is on the roof of your vehicle, you’re also out of the dirt and away from creepy crawly things on the ground. That makes a rooftop tent feel more secure.

　　Most rooftop tents are super quick and easy to set up. And when your tent is on your roof, it’s always with you, which can inspire some great impromptu adventures.

　　Rooftop tents typically come with a mattress and some can store bedding even when the tent is packed.

　　Can you put a rooftop tent on a car? Many rooftop tents are designed to be mounted on cars. But not every tent will fit every car. The size and weight of the tent need to match the size and carrying capacity of your cars roof rack.

　　For best results, use aftermarket bars, not standard factory-installed racks. Also, check the automakers and the roof rack manufacturers websites for compatibility.

　　What is the cheapest rooftop tent? You can buy a rooftop tent for under $1,000. It’s also possible to pick up a used one at a significant discount. As with campers, some people get excited about the idea of owning a rooftop tent, but they end up selling the tent because they don’t use it as much as they thought they would.

　　If you’re buying used, don’t forget that not every tent will fit every vehicle.

　　Will a rooftop tent affect my gas mileage? Yes. In our testing, we saw up to a 20% drop in fuel efficiency with a rooftop tent on the car and a mix of highway and local driving.

　　If I want to bring my dog into my rooftop tent, how do I do it? Historically, the best way to get your dog into the rooftop tent with you is the one-handed underarm carry or a harness carry. Keep in mind that once your dog is up, you’ll need to get it down too, both when you’re breaking camp and when your furry friend has to pee. If you have a big dog or a squirmy dog, consider letting it sleep in the car.

　　My rooftop tent ladder hurts my feet. What should I do? Rooftop tents all come with a ladder that clips or hooks to the tent. If it feels harsh on your feet, or you’re not 100% comfortable climbing a ladder, get iKamper’s HC Steps. The HC Steps are a fabric covering that Velcros over the rungs of your rooftop tent’s ladder, turning each ladder rung into a step

　　Should I buy an awning? Depending on the tent, an awning can turn your rooftop tent into a full basecamp, providing an enclosed area out of the wind, sun, rain, and other weather for cooking, gearing up, and hanging out. The biggest downside besides the cost is that adding an awning adds setup and breakdown time.

　　How hard is it to install a rooftop tent on my car? How hard it is to install a rooftop tent on your vehicle depends on the tent, and what you’re driving. Plan to have at least one other helper, and preferably three to lift your tent onto the roof of your vehicle. If you drive a truck and the tent is going on top of the cab or cap, make sure to recruit tall friends.

　　Once the tent is on top of your vehicle, you’ll have to install brackets and bolts. Many rooftop tents now boast tool-free installation. Some still require ratchets or wrenches. To install bolts in the rooftop tent frame you’ll need to lift the corners while sliding those bolds into their designated slots. It’s helpful to have a second person to help.

　　Depending on the tent model, some assembly is often required. For example, some tents come with noise-reducing inserts you only have to install the first time you use the tent.

　　Can I heat my rooftop tent?  Yes! Many rooftop tents have a special port for a diesel or electric heater. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe heater use inside your rooftop tent. Some electric climate control units will heat and also cool your tent.

　　The Best Camping Tents of 2025 Make the most of your home away from home by choosing the best camping tent for your adventure. We found the top car camping and family camping tents for every budget and use.

　　How to Choose the Best Tent for Camping or Backpacking Your tent protects you from the elements and forms years of outdoor memories. Your home in the hills, a tent is one of the biggest purchases an outdoor enthusiast can make.