Best Cars for Rooftop Tents: A Detailed Guide

Have you ever gone for any African safari adventure in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda or Uganda. If so, you’re probably familiar with the charm of camping under the starry night sky. Rooftop tents can be a real game-changer for those seeking a more comfortable and elevated camping experience. These innovative and convenient shelters allow you to turn your vehicle into a cozy, elevated haven in the wilderness.

Rooftop tents (RTTs) have become increasingly popular for camping enthusiasts, offering a convenient and elevated sleeping space. However, not every vehicle is suitable for mounting a rooftop tent.

Choosing the right car depends on factors such as roof load capacity, terrain compatibility, and overall stability.

This guide explores the best cars for rooftop tents, key considerations when selecting a vehicle, and the pros and cons of different car types.

What you need to consider while selecting a Roof Top Tent Vehicle?

Before choosing a car for a rooftop tent, consider the following factors:

Roof Load Capacity

Vehicles must have a high dynamic roof load capacity (the weight the roof can support while driving).

Static roof load capacity (weight when parked) is much higher but should still be considered.

Roof Rack Compatibility

Check if your car supports factory-installed or aftermarket roof racks.

Off-Road Capability

If you plan to camp in remote areas like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, a 4×4 or AWD vehicle is recommended. Higher ground clearance and rugged suspension help on rough terrain.

Vehicle Stability

Cars with a wider wheelbase and lower center of gravity are more stable with a rooftop tent. Avoid vehicles that are too tall or have poor weight distribution.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Carrying a rooftop tent can slightly affect fuel consumption due to added weight and wind resistance. If going off-road, consider fuel range and availability of refueling stations.

Best Types of Vehicles for Rooftop Tents

SUVs (Best for Versatility and Comfort)

These types of cars typically have larger cabins and cargo areas compared to other vehicles thus a perfect extra room for passengers and luggages. This makes the car very convenient for long road trips, camping and many more.

Why SUVs Are Great for RTTs

Strong roof structures to support heavier loads.

Comfortable for long drives and off-road adventures.

Plenty of storage for camping gear.

Best SUV Models for RTTs

Toyota Land Cruiser – Excellent off-road capability and durability.

Jeep Wrangler – 4×4 system perfect for rugged terrain.

Ford Bronco – Great for overlanding and has strong roof support.

Toyota 4 Runner – Reliable, spacious, and well-suited for RTTs.

Land Rover Defender – High roof capacity and off-road capability.

ADVANTAGES

Strong roof and body structure

Ideal for long trips and rough terrain

Very comfortable for families or groups

DISADVANTAGES

Higher fuel consumption

Larger models may be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces

Pickup Trucks (Best for Heavy Loads & Overlanding)

Why Pickups Are Great for RTTs

Strong payload and roof capacity.

Can mount RTTs on the roof or in the truck bed.

Excellent for off-road camping.

Best Pickup Models for RTTs:

Toyota Hilux – Durable, off-road ready, and widely used for overlanding.

Ford Ranger – Strong suspension and high payload capacity.

Jeep Gladiator – Combines Jeep off-road ability with a truck bed.

Toyota Tacoma – Reliable, with plenty of aftermarket support.

Ford F-150 Raptor – High roof capacity and excellent off-road performance.

ADVANTAGES

High weight capacity

Can be configured with bed racks for better tent mounting.

Great for rugged terrain and overlanding

DISADVANTAGES

Less enclosed storage space compared to SUVs

Some models have a high roof, making tent setup challenging

Vans (Best for Comfort & Extended Camping)

Why Vans Are Great for RTTs

More interior space for storage and living.

Can be modified into full camper vans with extra gear.

Better for long-term camping and road trips.

Fuel efficiency

Best Van Models for RTTs

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 – Excellent for long trips with added off-road capability.

Ford Transit AWD – Spacious and can handle moderate off-roading.

Toyota Hiace 4×4 – Reliable, widely used for camper conversions.

Volkswagen Transporter – Compact but great for van life with an RTT.

ADVANTAGES

More storage for gear and supplies

Can double as a mobile home

Comfortable for families or groups

DISADVANTAGES

Heavier, which affects fuel efficiency

Limited off-road capability for some models

Crossovers & Compact SUVs (Best for Light Camping & City Driving)

Why Crossovers Are Good for RTTs

More fuel-efficient than larger SUVs.

Easier to drive in cities while still offering adventure capabilities.

Can support smaller rooftop tents.

Best Crossover Models for RTTs

Subaru Outback – Good ground clearance and all-wheel drive.

Toyota RAV4 Adventure – Reliable with decent roof capacity.

Honda CR-V AWD – Fuel-efficient and practical.

ADVANTAGES

Great for casual campers and weekend trips

Fuel-efficient compared to larger vehicles

Easier to maneuver than full-size SUVs

DISADVANTAGES

Lower roof weight capacity, limiting tent size

Not suitable for extreme off-road conditions

Rooftop Tent Mounting Options

1. Roof Rack Mount

Most common method, using crossbars and a strong roof rack system.

Ensure weight is evenly distributed for stability.

2. Truck Bed Mount

Pickup trucks can have RTTs mounted on bed racks, keeping the tent lower and more stable.

This setup allows for extra storage in the truck bed.

3. Trailer Mount

If your car has a lower roof load capacity, you can tow an off-road trailer with an RTT.

Allows for more flexibility while driving.

Conclusion

The best car for a rooftop tent depends on your camping style and terrain needs:

Best Overall: Toyota Land Cruiser / 4Runner / Jeep Wrangler (Great for off-roading and long trips)

Best for Overlanding: Toyota Hilux / Ford Ranger / Jeep Gladiator (Rugged and durable)

Best for Van Life: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter / Ford Transit AWD (Comfort and storage)

Best for Budget & Light Camping: Subaru Outback / Toyota RAV4 (Fuel-efficient and compact)

When selecting a vehicle, always check its roof load capacity, stability, and terrain capability to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Would you like recommendations on specific rooftop tent models for different cars? Feel free to contact our team of expert who will guide you further to enable you make an informed decision

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