Best Rooftop Tent for Families in 2022

Is your family planning a camping trip this year? We have some advice for you: get a rooftop tent. They’re safe, convenient, and easy to set up and dismantle.

The Annual North American Camping Report of 2020 reports that there are nearly 79mn camping households in America. Those who camp more than three or four times are growing at an exponential rate of 72% since 2014[1].

That just goes to show the kind of demand for convenient camping gear. And what can be more convenient than a tent that can be set up right atop your car!

When you are looking for a family rooftop tent, size is a consideration. Apart from that, you would like it to be weatherproof, have a quality mattress, screened windows, and enough storage space. In this article, we take a look at the best rooftop tent for families.

If you are looking for just our top recommendation, we suggest the Smittybilt Overlander Tent. The tent is large enough to accommodate 3 to 4 people. The tent is made of a heavy-duty waterproof top. It also has mosquito netting, which is great to have. This overlander tent is easy to set up and build from durable materials.

#1 Smittybilt Overlander XL Rooftop Tent

The Smittybilt overlander tent is a standard-size tent. It can accommodate a family of three to four. It mounts quickly and easily at the cross bars of the car roof. The smittybilt overlander tent allows camping on the roof of the car. The waterproof tent folds out in minutes to its full height.

Features and Benefits

Comfort. The smittybilt overlander tent is made for comfort. It is easy to use. The tent comes with a nice foam full-size mattress. The dimensions are 92*55 inches. The side windows of the tent have mosquito netting to keep bugs out.

Durability. The tent’s top and rain fly is made of waterproof heavy-duty 600D ripstop polyester. The poles are constructed with anodized aluminum. This makes the tent durable. It can hold up to 40 mph winds well. The tent can also withstand heavy rains.

Flexibility. The smittybilt overlander XL tent is very flexible for camps. It gives you a versatile experience. The tent is more accommodating to your lifestyle and needs. It comes with a telescopic ladder and LED strips on the inside.

Size. The tent is standard size with open dimensions of 122-inch wide, 76-inch long, and 51-inch high. The maximum capacity load is 770 lbs.

Ease Of Use. The tent is easy to set and also dismantle. It folds out in minutes to full height.

Accessories. A telescoping aluminum ladder and LED strip interior light are included. The anodized aluminum frame poles are also included.

Why should you buy it?

---

#2 Thule Tepui Kukenam 3

Tepui Kukenam tent has a capacity of up to 3 people. It is made with a polyester-cotton blend. The canopy of the tent is thick. It comes with a PVC case to secure your tent. You need not worry about damages. The tent is durable, comfortable, and affordable.

Features and Benefits

Space and Comfort. The tent has a maximum height of 52-inches. It has a comfortable memory-form mattress.

• Size. The tent weighs 130lbs and is 12-inch tall when closed. It has plenty of headspaces—46-inches in the Centre and 34-inches on the side.
• Durability. The Kukenam 3 is durable and long-lasting. The opening and closing of the zipper multiple times show no sign of wear and tear.
• Easy To Convert. The Kukenam 3 is easy to convert from travel to camping mode. You can extend the ladder to open up the tent.
• Easy To Install. The tent has universal mounting brackets. The tent includes a 13mm wrench. The setting up directions are clear and easy to follow.
• Fabric. The canopy of the tent is made with 260g Polyester cotton. The 600D ripstop fabric comes with a water-resistant coating. It is UV and mold-resistant as well. It can withstand any weather.

Why should you buy it?

---

#3 LEER Gear Rooftop Tent

The leer gear makes your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. It will keep you dry, and you can enjoy the view and surroundings without worrying about animals.

Features and Benefits

• Dimensions. The open dimensions of the tent are 96-inch*56-inch*52-inch. It is constructed of aluminum with fiberglass sheets.
• It is protected From the Elements. The rooftop tent comes with screens on all windows and doors. It also has two sky panels on the roof. The tent is made from ripstop polycotton fabric. It has a water-resistant ventilated coating. The sky panel allows you to lay back and relax under the sun or stars.
• Room for 3. Three people can sleep comfortably in this rooftop tent with LEER gear. Its maximum weight of 600lbs should be there. The tent includes a 2.5-inch high-density foam mattress. It is machine washable, which makes your rest even better.
• Ladder. An 8.6-inch telescopic ladder is included with this rooftop tent. It makes it easy to get in and out of your tent.

Why should you buy it?

---

#4 Tuff Stuff Elite Rooftop Tent

The Tuff Stuff elite rooftop tent provides comfort, and ease and is convenient when traveling. It can mount to any vehicle with crossbars. The tent is easy to unfold in minutes, and no tools are required to set the tent. The tent is designed with extra space for family-style camping. The tent can accommodate 4-5 people on top.

Features and Benefits

• Tent Fabric Material. The tent is made of 280g polycotton ripstop fabric. It comes with a waterproof polyurethane coating, which gives maximum water resistance.
• Rainfly. The tents include 420D polyester-oxford material with a polyurethane coating for maximum water resistance. It sheds water immediately. Thus eliminating 50 percent of the overhead light. The polyester-oxford material maintains elasticity.
• Annex Room. The annex room is included in the tent. The dimension is 90-inch by 113-inch. It is made from 600D sidewalls. The annex room can also accommodate a queen-size mattress or a folding cot for the kid.
• Mattress. The tent has two 2.5-inch thick high-density foam mattresses. The mattress can be removed and is washable. You can store the bedding along with the mattress. It frees up space inside the car.
• Bungee Cord System. The tent has a bungee cord system, which helps assist in closing. You don’t have to hold the tent material.
• Doors and Windows. The elite rooftop tent comes with two doors and two windows at the top. It has two retractable ladders. You can fold up the ladder if you need more space.

Why should you buy it?

The tuff stuff elite is the largest rooftop tent that can accommodate 4-5 people. The tent is designed with extra space and comfort for family-style camping. The tent comes with a lower annex room, which provides extra shelter and privacy.

---

#5 Overland Nomadic 3 Rooftop Tent

Nomadic 3 is a high-end rooftop tent. It is made with high-quality materials and is durable. The tent is 51-inch high when opened. It can accommodate a family of 3 people.

Features and Benefits

• Dimensions. The closed dimension of nomadic three tents is 63-inch wide, 47-inch long, and 14-inch high. The open dimensions of the tent are 63-inch wide, 122-inch long, and 51-inch high.
• Rainfly. The tent has a 420 oxford ripstop rainfly. It can withstand rough weather conditions and lets air in through mosquito net rolls.
• Durability. The tent is a mix of polyester and cotton canvas. It is waterproof and long-lasting. The 600D ripstop polyester is robust and durable.
• Internal Space. The internal space of the tent is wide enough to stretch and sleep. It does not make you uncomfortable anytime.
  Accessories. The tent comes with a LED light, transport cover, and storage pockets for your camping trip.

Why should you buy it?

The nomadic 3-rooftop tent is constructed with waterproof 600D ripstop cotton canvas material. It keeps you dry all season. It is good for three people at a time.

#6 Tepui Autana 3

The Tepui Autana 3 gives you maximum comfort. The large sky windows and 2.5-inch foam mattress gives maximum comfort. The tent is easy to set up. It comes with a ladder, which is simple to use. You can enjoy the outdoors with your family.

Features and Benefits

• Space and Comfort. The Autana 3 is spacious and comfortable. Your family can easily get inside and be comfortable. The height of the Autana 3 is 52-inches. It leaves a lot of space to relax. The canopy opens up completely so you can enjoy the Skyview.
• Mosquito Net. The windows have mosquito nets that can be rolled up and unzipped easily.
• Annex. The Autana 3 comes with an annex. After converting the tent to camping mode, the annex is hung from the bottom. This adds an extra room to the tent, which can be used to store your stuff.
• Durability. The canopy is made with 600D ripstop fabric. It means it is durable and long-lasting. You won’t find any wear or tear. The canopy keeps you dry if it rains without the rainfly attached.
• Ladder. A telescopic ladder is included with the tent. Its height can be adjusted as per need.

Why should you buy it?

The Autana 3 is best for a couple or family of three who likes traveling a lot. This tent is suitable for any weather conditions and is durable. The tent is comfortable and spacious and also offers privacy.

Buyer Guide: Best Rooftop Tent For Families

Space and Comfort

Before purchasing a rooftop tent, think about how many people will be using it. Are you traveling solo? Or are you traveling with family?

The built-in mattress in the tent should be spacious enough to have a comfortable sleep all night. The rooftop tent should be comfortable and spacious enough for a family to stay in.

Durability

With any rooftop tent, durability is an important factor to consider. Choose a tent with high-quality canvas. It should be durable and weatherproof. The tent should be able to stand corrugations and rough roads as well.

Vehicle Compatibility

Before buying a rooftop tent, look if it’s compatible with your car. Not all vehicles can bear the weight of the rooftop tent and also for the family. Check your vehicle’s specifications before going for a rooftop tent.

Secure The Ladder

Rooftop tents come with a ladder to step up. Make sure your ladder is safe and secured before the kids step in. the ladder fits into the brackets below the tent’s doorways. Make sure the ladder is secured on the brackets and is safely fastened.

Doors And Windows

Make sure the kids stay safe inside the tent. Close the mesh windows with the zip at night. This is important if you are camping with young children since the tent is several feet off the ground. You can enjoy the view when it’s warmed out by opening the windows.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Rooftop Tent For Families

Will the rooftop tent fit in the garage?

This depends on the height of your garage and vehicle. Also, the height of the roof rack used to attach the tent. You can measure it with tape and look at the dimensions of the roof rack. We have dedicated a whole article about ceiling hoists if you’re interested.

What are the benefits of rooftop tents?

The rooftop tent allows you to camp off the ground. It keeps you secured if you fear animals being attacked. Rooftop tents keep you protected from sleeping on wet grounds when it rains. With a rooftop tent, you can camp anywhere you want. You just have to park your car with a perfect view to enjoy. Rooftop tents come with a built-in mattress as well.

Are there any negatives about Rooftop Camping?

Well, yes there are. We have dedicated a whole article about all the cons in our 10 reasons not to buy a Rooftop Tent, which you can find here. Make sure you read this article because we think it’s very important to be fully aware of all the downsides before you go out and splash a couple of grand on a Rooftop Tent.

Conclusion

Rooftop tents help your family get outdoors quickly and easily. They are very comfortable and durable. You can spend a good time with your family enjoying the view.

In our opinion, the Smittybilt Overlander Tent is the best choice among the various options that we have considered because it’s made of high quality and is durable. It’s good for anyone who likes to have a spacious tent. The tent is made for comfort and is easy to use. It uses heavy-duty materials and comes with functional features.

The Thule Tepui Kukenam 3 is our next best choice because it is great for any weather. It is durable, comfortable, and easy to use.

If you are looking for a value-for-money option, you can also consider the Overland Nomadic 3 Rooftop Tent, which is a great toy at a very reasonable price point.