Weekend camping
A roof tent keeps the main sleeping equipment together and can reduce the time required to establish a simple overnight camp.
Devon 4x4 Buyer’s Guide
4x4 Roof Tent Buyer’s Guide
Learn how to choose a roof tent for weekend camping, touring and overland travel, including tent styles, vehicle compatibility, roof-load limits, mounting systems, comfort features and essential accessories.
Soft-shell and hard-shell tents
Vehicle compatibility
Roof-load limits
Camping comfort
Roof Tent Basics
What is a vehicle roof tent?
A roof tent is a vehicle-mounted sleeping system that folds or closes into a compact travelling position and opens into an elevated camping space. It is normally secured to suitable roof bars, a platform rack or another approved load-carrying system.
Most roof tents include an integrated mattress and ladder, allowing the sleeping area to remain off the ground and away from wet grass, mud and uneven terrain. Many designs can also carry some bedding while closed, although the permitted amount varies by tent.
Roof tents are popular for weekend camping, overlanding and extended touring because they keep the sleeping system attached to the vehicle and reduce the amount of loose camping equipment that must be set up at each stop.
Camping from Your Vehicle
When is a roof tent worth buying?
Roof tents are particularly useful for campers who move regularly, want a permanently mounted sleeping system or frequently stay on wet, rough or uneven ground.
Overland travel
Travellers moving between campsites can open and close the same familiar sleeping system throughout a journey.
Wet or uneven ground
The elevated sleeping platform avoids direct contact with mud, standing water, stones and uneven campsite surfaces.
Compact campsites
A vehicle-mounted tent usually requires less surrounding ground space than a large family tent with separate sleeping compartments.
Touring holidays
Roof tents can suit travellers who want to combine road touring with campsites, remote stopovers and changing overnight locations.
Organised vehicle builds
Mounting the sleeping system on the roof leaves the load area available for drawers, cooking equipment, water, refrigeration and luggage.
Roof Tent Types
Soft-shell or hard-shell roof tent?
The main choice is between a folding soft-shell tent and a hard-shell design. Both can provide a comfortable sleeping space, but they differ in packed size, setup, weight, internal room and price.
Traditional Folding Design
Soft-shell roof tents
Soft-shell tents normally fold out beyond the roof rack to create a larger sleeping platform. Their fabric walls and travel covers help keep cost and packed weight lower than many hard-shell designs.
- Often provide a large sleeping area
- Good value for occasional and family camping
- Fold-out section may create extra sheltered space
- Annex options are available for some models
- Usually take longer to open and close
- Travel cover must be secured correctly
Fast-Opening Design
Hard-shell roof tents
Hard-shell tents close beneath a rigid outer shell and are generally designed for fast setup, a compact closed profile and frequent use during touring or overland travel.
- Quick to open and close
- Rigid shell protects the packed tent
- Often has a slimmer travelling profile
- Well suited to regular touring
- Usually more expensive than soft-shell designs
- Sleeping platform may remain within roof dimensions
Opening Configurations
Fold-out, wedge and pop-up roof tents
Opening style affects the available sleeping space, setup process, interior height and how much room the tent occupies on the vehicle roof.
Fold-out tents
A hinged base unfolds to create a sleeping platform larger than the packed tent. This style is common among traditional soft-shell tents and larger family models.
Wedge tents
The shell lifts higher at one end to create a streamlined triangular profile. Wedge tents are often simple to operate and stable in exposed conditions.
Parallel pop-up tents
The roof rises at both ends to create a more uniform internal height. This can improve sitting room and interior space around the sleeping platform.
Vehicle Compatibility
Can your vehicle carry a roof tent?
A roof tent must only be fitted when the vehicle roof, mounting points, roof bars or platform and tent mounting system are all suitable for the intended load.
Always check the complete system
The lowest-rated component determines the usable limit
Vehicle roof limit
The manufacturer’s limit for the roof and approved mounting positions must not be exceeded.
Rack or bar limit
Roof bars, platform racks, feet and mounting brackets each have their own specified capacity.
Roof tent weight
Include the complete tent, ladder, mounting hardware and anything stored on or inside it while travelling.
Dynamic and static roof loads are different
The dynamic limit applies while the vehicle is moving and must account for the roof tent, rack and all equipment carried on the roof. Static load refers to the stationary vehicle at camp, when the tent is open and occupied. Never assume a static capacity without confirmation from the vehicle, rack and tent manufacturers.
Do not rely on the roof tent ladder as structural support
The ladder provides access and may form part of the setup arrangement on some tents, but the vehicle and mounting system must still be approved to carry the tent and its occupants. Follow the instructions for the exact tent model.
Roof Rack Compatibility
Roof bars, platform racks and mounting systems
A roof tent normally requires at least two suitably rated cross bars or a compatible platform rack. Bar spacing, cross-section, width and mounting hardware must all suit the tent manufacturer’s requirements.
Factory roof rails do not automatically confirm roof-tent compatibility. The rail, feet, bars, mounting points and vehicle roof each need to be suitable for the complete travelling load.
Platform racks can provide a strong and versatile base for touring equipment, but their own weight must be included when calculating the remaining dynamic roof-load allowance.
Check mounting-bar spacing before ordering
Confirm the required distance between support bars, the permitted bar profile, tent mounting-channel position and access to the fasteners. Some vehicles or racks may require model-specific brackets.
Driving with a Roof Tent
Weight, height and vehicle handling
A roof tent changes the vehicle’s weight distribution, overall height and aerodynamic profile. These changes must be considered before travelling on or off road.
Higher centre of gravity
Weight carried above the vehicle can increase body roll and affect cornering, braking and stability.
Additional vehicle height
Measure the complete travelling height and allow for car parks, barriers, garages, branches and low bridges.
Fuel consumption
Additional weight and aerodynamic drag can increase energy or fuel consumption, particularly at higher road speeds.
Off-road movement
Uneven terrain creates dynamic loads. Drive smoothly and remain within the vehicle and rack manufacturer’s off-road limits.
Wind sensitivity
Crosswinds can have a greater effect on a vehicle with equipment mounted above the roofline.
Regular fastener checks
Inspect tent, rack and vehicle mounting hardware at the intervals specified by each manufacturer.
Sleeping Comfort
Roof tent features worth considering
Interior dimensions and mattress comfort matter, but ventilation, storage and everyday usability can make an equally important difference during a longer trip.
Sleeping capacity
Compare the internal sleeping area with the number, height and preferred sleeping space of the occupants.
Mattress
Mattress thickness, density and support affect comfort and the amount of bedding that can remain inside.
Ventilation
Windows, vents and breathable panels help manage heat, moisture and condensation.
Interior height
Check sitting and changing room as well as the shape of the roof when the tent is open.
Internal storage
Pockets, storage nets and equipment organisers keep small items accessible without reducing sleeping space.
Lighting and power
Integrated lights or suitable power connections can improve convenience during evening setup and use.
Ladder access
Consider ladder length, rung comfort, doorway position and access around the vehicle.
Weather protection
Look at fabric, rainfly coverage, door design and the way water drains away from openings.
Roof Tents at Devon 4x4
Roof tent styles for different adventures
Devon 4x4 offers folding, hard-shell, wedge and lightweight roof tents from specialist camping and overland brands.
Spacious Camping
Folding roof tents
Traditional fold-out designs such as the ARB Simpson, ARB Flinders and larger TentBox models can provide generous sleeping space for touring and family camping.
Fast Touring Setup
Hard-shell touring tents
Models such as the ARB Esperance, Alu-Cab Generation 3 and TentBox Cargo or Classic provide fast setup for regular touring and multi-stop journeys.
Lower Roof Weight
Lightweight roof tents
Lightweight designs such as the Alu-Cab LT-50 and compact TentBox options may suit vehicles where roof weight, packed size and everyday use are priorities.
Complete Your Setup
Useful roof tent accessories
Accessories can improve comfort, weather protection, campsite storage and the speed of fitting or removing the tent.
Annex room
Adds enclosed ground-level space for changing, storage or sheltered campsite use.
Anti-condensation mat
Creates airflow beneath the mattress and helps manage trapped moisture.
Ladder extension
May be required for lifted vehicles or particularly high roof-rack installations.
Shoe storage
Keeps muddy footwear outside the sleeping area while remaining accessible from the ladder.
Awning
Provides sheltered outdoor living space beside the vehicle for cooking and relaxing.
Quick-release mounts
Compatible systems can make seasonal installation and removal more convenient.
Interior organiser
Provides accessible storage for lights, phones, keys and other small camping items.
Thermal liner
A compatible liner may improve comfort during colder conditions and help manage interior temperature.
Care and Storage
Looking after a roof tent
A roof tent is exposed to weather, road dirt, insects and movement while travelling. Regular cleaning and inspection help protect its fabric, shell, seals, hinges and mounting hardware.
The tent should be allowed to dry thoroughly before it remains closed for an extended period. Packing damp fabric can encourage mildew, odours and staining.
Follow the maintenance instructions supplied with the exact tent. Cleaning products suitable for one type of fabric, coating or shell may not be suitable for another.
- Dry the tent fully before long-term storage
- Remove mud, salt, leaves and loose contamination
- Inspect fabric, seams, zips and insect screens
- Check hinges, gas struts and opening mechanisms
- Inspect rack and tent mounting hardware regularly
- Store removable bedding in a dry environment
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions
Before You Order
Which roof tent should you buy?
Start with vehicle compatibility and roof-load capacity, then compare sleeping space, packed weight, setup time and the type of camping you expect to do.
Confirm the vehicle roof limit
Check the manufacturer’s dynamic roof-load limit and any vehicle-specific restrictions.
Check the rack or roof bars
Confirm capacity, bar spacing, mounting strength and compatibility with roof tents.
Compare packed tent weight
Include mounting hardware, ladder and anything carried inside the tent during travel.
Choose the sleeping capacity
Compare internal dimensions rather than relying only on the advertised number of occupants.
Decide how often you will move
Fast-opening hard shells can be valuable on trips with frequent overnight stops.
Consider packed dimensions
Check roof coverage, vehicle height, aerodynamics and space for other roof-mounted equipment.
Plan campsite access
Consider ladder position, doorway direction, awnings, annex rooms and surrounding vehicle access.
Confirm installation requirements
Check whether specialist brackets, additional bars or professional fitting are required.
Common Questions
Roof tent FAQs
Straightforward answers to common questions about choosing, mounting and using a vehicle roof tent.
Can any vehicle carry a roof tent?
No. The vehicle roof, approved mounting points, roof bars or rack and the tent mounting system must all be suitable for the complete load. Check the vehicle, rack and tent manufacturer’s requirements before ordering.
Do I need a roof rack for a roof tent?
A roof tent normally requires suitable cross bars, a platform rack or another approved mounting system. Factory roof rails alone are not normally the final mounting surface and do not automatically confirm compatibility.
What is the difference between dynamic and static roof load?
Dynamic load applies while the vehicle is moving and must include the rack, tent and all equipment carried on the roof. Static load applies when the vehicle is stationary at camp. Both limits must be confirmed for the complete system.
Are hard-shell roof tents better than soft-shell tents?
Neither type is automatically better. Hard-shell tents generally open more quickly and have a compact closed profile, while folding soft-shell tents often provide a larger sleeping platform for the price.
Can bedding remain inside a roof tent?
Some tents allow limited bedding to remain inside while closed, but the available space varies. Too much bedding can prevent the tent from closing correctly or place excessive pressure on the shell, fabric, hinges or fastening system.
Are roof tents waterproof?
Roof tents are designed to provide weather protection when correctly erected and maintained, but performance depends on the tent, fabric, rainfly, condition and setup. Doors, vents and openings must be used as instructed during poor weather.
Can a roof tent stay on the vehicle all year?
Many owners leave roof tents fitted for extended periods, but exposure to weather, road salt and UV light increases maintenance requirements. The tent and mountings should be inspected regularly and removed if required by the manufacturer.
Do roof tents affect fuel economy?
They can. The additional weight and aerodynamic drag may increase fuel or energy consumption. The effect varies according to the tent profile, vehicle, installation and driving speed.
Can I use a roof tent in strong wind?
Wind limits and recommended orientation vary by model. Follow the tent manufacturer’s instructions, select a sheltered position where possible and close the tent if conditions exceed its intended use.
Can Devon 4x4 help with roof tent fitting?
Contact Devon 4x4 with the vehicle, roof system and tent details to discuss compatibility and available fitting options. Additional roof bars, platforms or mounting components may be required.
Continue Planning Your Build
Related equipment and resources
Complete your touring setup with a suitable roof system, sheltered living space and organised camping equipment.
Vehicle-Based Camping
Find the right roof tent for your next adventure
Browse folding, lightweight and hard-shell roof tents for weekend camping, touring and overland travel, or contact Devon 4x4 for help checking your vehicle and roof system.