Best Rooftop Tent for Winter: Top Picks for 2023

Winter adventures often require extra planning and gear, and when it comes to camping, having a great rooftop tent can make all the difference. This specific type of tent is perfect for winter camping since they’re elevated and can withstand harsh conditions.

Among the many rooftop tents available in the market, the ones designed for winter camping are typically built with more robust materials and insulation to keep the cold at bay. It’s essential to consider factors like the tent’s warmth, weather resistance, and ease of installation when looking for the perfect rooftop tent for winter use.

Before deciding on a specific rooftop tent, campers should prioritize the tent’s insulation properties for warmth and look for features such as reinforced seams and waterproofing to handle winter elements more effectively. Furthermore, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your vehicle size and load capacity to guarantee safe and secure setup.

In order to find the perfect rooftop tent for your winter excursions, we have pinpointed the ones that stand out among the rest. So bundle up and get ready to discover the best rooftop tents for winter camping.

Best Rooftop Tents for Winter

We’ve gathered the top-notch rooftop tents perfect for braving those chilly winter nights. Check out our handpicked selection below.

Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent with Annex 4-person Explorer Haze Gray

We’d recommend this rooftop tent for winter campers seeking comfort, durability, and extra space with a removable annex.

Pros

• Durable and weather-resistant materials
• Spacious with room for up to four people
• Comfortable high-density foam mattress included

Cons

• High price point
• Might be challenging for some to set up initially
• Annex zipper may be stiff at first

Campers who took the Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent out on a winter camping trip couldn’t be happier with the experience. The tent’s durable coated 600 denier and 260g poly-cotton blend fabric held up well to the harsh winter elements. It has a UV-resistant feature, so it’s versatile enough for camping in any season.

Setting the tent up wasn’t too difficult, but it might be slightly challenging for first-time users. The good news is that once the tent is set up, it offers ample space for up to four people. It comes with a comfortable high-density foam mattress, so there’s no need to worry about finding a separate sleeping pad.

The extended private canopy entrance and removable annex add valuable space to the tent, which can be used for storing gear or for shelter during snowy weather. The tent has large internal pockets for storage and mesh panels for ventilation, ensuring a cozy stay inside.

One downside we noticed was that the annex zipper was stiff at first, but it should improve over time and with use. Although the Thule Tepui Autana Rooftop Tent is on the pricier side, its features and quality construction make it worth the investment for winter camping enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and durable rooftop tent for their adventures.

Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Extended Rooftop Tent

If you’re serious about winter camping, the Nomadic 3 Rooftop Tent is your go-to choice for its impressive durability and comfort.

Pros

• Sturdy, weather-resistant materials
• Spacious interior for up to 3 occupants
• High-density foam mattress for superior comfort

Cons

• Slightly difficult to install
• A bit heavy at 165 pounds
• Annex not included and sold separately

The experience with the Nomadic 3 Rooftop Tent for campers has been nothing short of incredible. When it comes to winter camping, they found it to be a reliable and durable option, thanks to its marine-grade waterproof materials. The 600D ripstop polyester cotton canvas body and waterproof rainfly keep you dry and warm even in harsh weather conditions.

They appreciated the comfortable sleeping quarters, especially the 3-inch high-density foam mattress with a quilted cotton cover. This, combined with the insulated base, made for a cozy night’s sleep even in freezing temperatures. The tent also provides ample space for up to three people, making it a great option for small groups or families.

Although they encountered some hiccups during the installation, once properly installed, the tent was quite sturdy and secure. The extra weight (165 pounds) might be a downside for some people, but it’s a trade-off for the tent’s outstanding performance in harsh conditions. Just remember to double-check your roof rack’s weight capacity.

The only real con they found in our experience with the Nomadic 3 is that the annex is sold separately. While it would’ve been preferable for it to be included, the overall quality and performance of the tent definitely make up for it.

Roofnest Condor Overland 2 XL

The Roofnest Condor Overland 2 XL is worth considering if you’re seeking a durable, comfortable, and spacious rooftop tent for winter adventures.

Pros

• Durable aluminum shell with locking latches
• 3000mm waterproof rating and blackout coating
• Built-in 2″ high-density foam mattress for comfort

Cons

• Heavy at 280 pounds
• Slightly challenging installation process
• Limited cross ventilation

For campers who recently had the opportunity to test out the Roofnest Condor Overland 2 XL Hard-Shell Roof Top Tent, the first impression was highly positive. They highlighted the super-durable aluminum shell with locking latches, which inspired confidence in its ability to withstand harsh winter conditions. Moreover, the 3000mm waterproof rating and blackout coating ensured that they stayed dry and warm throughout the chilly nights.

Inside the tent, they were impressed by the built-in 2″ high-density foam mattress, which provided surprising comfort whether they were sleeping or simply lounging during the day. Another feature they appreciated was the 7.5-foot integrated aluminum telescoping ladder, making access to the tent easy and convenient. With the addition of dimmable LED lights and a ceiling-mounted gear grid, their nights felt cozy and organized, even when the weather outside was less than pleasant.

There were a few drawbacks noticed. For one, the tent is quite heavy at 280 pounds, making the installation process somewhat challenging, especially for first-time users. Additionally, while the overall interior space was ample, they noticed there’s limited cross ventilation, which may be an issue if you prefer more airflow.

Campoint 2-3 Person Sunroof Rooftop Tent with Skyline Rainfly and Ladder

This rooftop tent is worth considering for its affordability and features, despite some minor drawbacks.

Pros

• 2-3 person capacity and 661 lb. max load
• Waterproof with extra large rain fly and sunroof
• Multiple entrances and windows with mosquito netting

Cons

• Installation can be difficult
• Thin mattress padding for side sleepers
• Potential for water pooling above the ladder

The Campoint Sunroof Rooftop Tent is spacious enough for 2-3 people and supports a max load of 661 lbs. This makes it perfect for a small group outing or a cozy camping experience for a couple. With its heavy-duty waterproof materials, you can trust this tent to keep you dry during unexpected downpours, while the sunroof offers added ventilation and natural light.

However, we also found that the installation process can be a bit challenging, taking some time to set up. This might not be ideal for those who look for a quick and easy assembly. Additionally, for those who sleep on their sides, the mattress padding is a bit thin. You might need to add extra padding for a more comfortable sleep.

In terms of ventilation, this rooftop tent offers multiple entrances and windows with mosquito netting to ensure airflow and protection from insects. This is especially important in warmer weather or humid environments. One downside, however, is that water might pool above the ladder during heavy rain. You might need to make sure the ladder is positioned well to avoid this issue.

Overall, the Campoint Sunroof Rooftop Tent with Skyline Rainfly and Ladder is a good choice for its price, offering solid features and spacious accommodation.

Campoint Rooftop Tent Annex for 2-3 Person

This rooftop tent annex is a decent choice for winter campers seeking additional space and protection.

Pros

• Quick and easy setup with zipper system
• Comes with mesh netted doors and windows for ventilation
• Durable PVC floor and polyester fabric for weather resistance

Cons

• Not perfectly compatible with all rooftop tents
• May receive different color than expected
• Some issues with missing hardware

Campers who recently tried out the Campoint Rooftop Tent Annex on a winter camping trip reported that it provided them with some extra space for gear storage and lounging. The setup was quick and easy, thanks to the zipper installation system, and it took only a few extra minutes to attach it to the rooftop tent.

The annex comes with a door and two windows, complete with mesh netting for ventilation. This feature was helpful in keeping the interior fresh while the inside stayed warm and protected from the cold. The durable PVC floor and polyester fabric proved to be resilient against the elements, ensuring that belongings stay dry and safe throughout the trip.

On the downside, we noticed that the Campoint Rooftop Tent Annex wasn’t a perfect fit for all rooftop tents. This may cause some gaps and alignment issues, so double-check compatibility before purchasing. Additionally, some campers experienced a discrepancy in color – an order for a tan annex came in dark blue instead. Lastly, some customers reported missing hardware.

BAMACAR Naturnest Hardshell Rooftop Tent

If you’re seeking a highly functional rooftop tent for winter camping, this hardshell option from BAMACAR is worth considering.

Pros

• Quick and easy setup
• Durable aluminum alloy shell and stainless steel gas bar
• Spacious and well-designed storage options

Cons

• Limited customer reviews available
• Heavier than some other options
• Potentially higher price point

Campers who recently had the chance to take the BAMACAR Naturnest Hardshell Rooftop Tent out for a spin were pretty impressed. Its air pressure rods make setting up a breeze; within 10 seconds, the tent is ready to go. The tent’s aluminum alloy shell and stainless steel gas bar hold up well against strong winds and provide excellent durability.

In terms of space, this tent comfortably fits two adults and one child. Plus, its storage solutions are a game-changer. With 10 storage bags for daily necessities and 2 waterproof bags for shoes, it’s more than enough to keep gear organized. We also appreciated the multiple entrances and mesh windows that provided ample ventilation without sacrificing warmth.

The BAMACAR Naturnest Hardshell Rooftop Tent really proved its worth in winter conditions. It’s waterproof, windproof, and provides UV protection, ensuring we were protected from the elements. The 3-layer mattress keeps you cozy during our cold nights, while the LED lights and mesh windows make the interior feel bright and inviting.

However, we should note that there are currently limited customer reviews available for this product. Additionally, the tent’s weight and potentially higher price point may be a downside for some shoppers.

iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Rooftop Tent

The iKamper Skycamp 3.0 should be your go-to choice for winter camping, offering comfort, space, and weather protection.

Pros

• Spacious and comfortable
• Weather-resistant materials
• Aerodynamic design

Cons

• A bit on the heavier side
• May require some practice for installation
• Might be pricey for some

Campers who used the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 can attest to its amazing comfort, making it feel like we’re right at home. It offers plenty of space to stash all the cozy gear, while its award-winning hardshell design cuts through the wind with ease – no dragging you down on our journey.

During those chilly winter nights, the insulation in the king-sized mattress kept them toasty and warm. They appreciated how the waterproof fly stayed true to its purpose and kept them dry in the rain, while the canvas walls did an amazing job of blocking out any unwanted light.

Furthermore, the convertible windows were a nice touch. Adjusting the airflow to their liking was a breeze, making sure they stayed comfortable in any conditions. However, it’s worth noting that the tent is somewhat heavy, so make sure your vehicle can handle the extra weight.

Installation may require a bit of practice and patience, particularly on your first few attempts. But don’t worry – once mastered, it’s quite straightforward. The price tag might not be ideal for everyone, but we truly believe you get what you pay for with the iKamper Skycamp 3.0.

Buying Guide

Winter camping can be a blast, but you need the right gear to keep you warm and cozy up there on the roof of your car. That’s why finding the best rooftop tent for winter is crucial. In this buying guide, we’ll share a few tips on how to choose the best one and what features to look for.

Insulation

First off, a good winter rooftop tent should have adequate insulation to keep you warm in freezing temperatures. Look for tents that have a high R-value, which measures the thermal resistance of the insulation material. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation.

Weather Resistance

Your rooftop tent needs to be able to withstand heavy snow, wind, and rain. When shopping, pay attention to the tent’s materials and how they’re rated for water resistance. You’ll want to choose a tent with a durable, waterproof outer layer and robust zippers that can handle harsh weather conditions.

Ventilation

Condensation can be a problem in small enclosed spaces like rooftop tents, especially in cold weather. Make sure the tent you choose has proper ventilation to reduce moisture buildup inside. Look for features like mesh windows, adjustable air vents, and a breathable fabric to promote airflow.

Size

Rooftop tents come in various sizes, so you’ll want to find one that fits your vehicle and meets your space requirements. Consider how many people you’ll be camping with and the amount of gear you want to store inside your tent. A compact 2-person tent might be great for a solo traveler, but a big 4-person model will be more accommodating for a group.

Ease of Setup

Let’s face it – nobody wants to spend hours setting up a tent in freezing cold weather. Look for rooftop tents that are quick and easy to set up and take down. Features like color-coded poles, pre-attached guylines, and quick-release buckles are a plus.