You’re thinking of buying an option for a roof tent for your car? Here, we’re going to look at the benefits and drawbacks of acquiring an roof tent for your vehicle. Always do the necessary research prior to buying and we hope that this article will help you determine whether a roof tent is suitable for your camping trips within the UK or elsewhere.
What are the benefits of a tent with a roof?
1. Camp wherever you want
There’s no grass to be cut regardless of whether you’re on a mountain path or sand dune, or even the Tesco car park A roof tent lets you to set up camp virtually everywhere.
2. You can go wherever you want to go.
It’s much easier to travel with an open-air tent. You are able to travel to places that you only imagine with camping trailers and trailer tents motorhomes, caravans, and campervans particularly if you own the 4×4.
3. Rapid set-up and tear-down
The installation of a roof tent is simple and can be fitted to all vehicles that meet certain number of specifications. It is extremely easy to set up and can be completed in just a few minutes. You’ll become the envy of all your traditional campers when you’re all set and sipping the cool beverage of wine or beer.
4. Tough
Roof tents are built from a tough canvas designed to withstand nature’s elements. The canvas is waterproof, as well as resistant to mould and UV. A sturdy aluminium support structure creates the most durable and long-lasting tent.
5. Comfort
A quality rooftop tent should include mesh doors and windows for airflow, which is great for the hottest summer day or at night. A comfortable high-density foam mattress should be included as standard and some tents come with windows that offer a view of the sky for stargazing at night, as well as extra light during daytime.
6. Beasts and bugs
The fact that you are on the roof means that you’re away from insects such as scorpions and spiders. There is nothing worse than finding creatures crawling about inside your sleeping bag or tent! The wildlife in the UK is not danger, however if travel to a place in which there are bears, tigers, snakes or wolves. You will be well out of their reach when you are in a roof tent.
7. View
Your personal viewing platform, with stunning views you cannot get from tents on the ground. Awaking to the panorama of the ocean, lake mountains, or a river is always better higher up. You’ll never be camping in the same spot again.
8. Value
In comparison to the cost of a motorhome, campervan or trailer tent the roof tent is much less expensive to purchase and maintain.
Are there any disadvantages of a tent with a roof?
1. Wind
The very nature of being higher, means that in a windy location or conditions, a tent on the roof could be tossed around. However, they’re made to withstand the force of wind and rocking can make you uncomfortable or cause you to go to sleep.
2. Economy of fuel
The additional burden and drag from the roof tent on your vehicle will cause gas consumption, and consequently the fuel efficiency will decrease. This could result in the removal of the roof tent during times in which you don’t plan to use it.
3. Day trip
If you are planning to go off to explore for the day then you need to fold down your roof tent. This can be a headache as compared to a conventional ground tent that you could simply leave it in place while you’re out exploring. Another suggestion is to bring bikes with you so that you can travel without the need for a vehicle. If you need to drive, you could put up the roof tent and put your bed inside for the speed.
4. Toilet trips
We’ve all been there: getting tired and unable to go for the restroom in the late at night. The process of climbing to the bottom of a ladder and then back up is slightly more difficult than standing in a tent, but not too difficult. Another alternative can be to have a water bottle in your backpack, as a rooftop buddy told me!
5. Aren’t able to stand
So, unless you’re below 4 feet tall, it’s impossible to sit up on a roof tent. But, some roof tents include an annex, which means you can sit up to cook, eat, and much more.
What’s the conclusion?
Ok, so we could be a bit biased, but we’ve attempted to be as fair as we can about the advantages and disadvantages of the roof tent. The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages when compared to ground tents or the expense of a motorhome or campervan. Also, don’t overlook the roof tent may be put on an RV if additional space is required or you’ll need trailers if you’re planning to use your motorhome for day-trips.
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