A rooftop tent is an excellent investment for anyone who likes to spend time outdoors. Rooftop tents are perfect for camping, road trips, and even music festivals. But how long do they last? And how many years will you get out of them?

Rooftop tents are made from high-quality materials designed to withstand the elements. The average lifespan of a hardshell rooftop tent is 10-15 years, while that of a softshell rooftop tent is 5-10years. However, your tent can last much longer with proper care and maintenance. 

In this blog post, I will discuss the durability of rooftop tents and how long you can expect them to last. I will also provide some tips on prolonging your rooftop tent’s life.

How Long Do Rooftop Tents Last?

Many rooftop brands boast a lifespan of 10-15 years for their hardshell tents and 5-10 years for their softshell tents. However, these are just averages. With proper care, your rooftop tent could last much longer than that.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Rooftop Tent

The following factors will significantly affect how long a rooftop tent will last:

Material Quality

The material quality determines how long a rooftop tent will last. The tent’s shell and rainfly are typically made from polyester or nylon. The floor is usually made from either PVC or polyethylene.

The quality of these materials will determine how long your tent lasts. For example, a cheap tent with a thin floor will only last for a short time as a more expensive tent with a thicker base. Likewise, a poorly made rainfly will only last for a short time as a high-quality rainfly.

Hard Shell or Soft Shell

The two different types of rooftop tents are hardshell and softshell. Hard shell tents are made from a rigid material, such as aluminum or fiberglass. On the other hand, softshell tents are made from flexible materials, such as nylon or polyester.

Hardshell tents are more durable than softshell tents and will last longer. This is because hardshell tents can better withstand the elements and are less likely to tear or rip.

Care and Maintenance

The way you care for your rooftop tent will also affect its lifespan. For example, if you regularly clean and waterproof your tent, it will last longer than if you do not. Likewise, if you store your tent correctly when not in use, it will last longer than if you leave it out in the elements.

Manufacturing Quality

The manufacturing quality is also crucial in determining the lifespan of a rooftop tent. Poorly made tents are more likely to develop holes, leaks, and other defects. These problems can lead to the tent’s premature death.

Brand

Some brands are known for making high-quality tents that last for many years. Others are known for making lower-quality tents that last less long. Do your research and read reviews before purchasing a rooftop tent to ensure you get a quality product.

The Frequency of Use

The frequency of use is another critical factor in determining how long a rooftop tent will last. If you only use your tent a few times per year, it will last longer than if you use it frequently. This is because tents used more often are more likely to develop wear and tear.

The Conditions You Use It In

Your tent will also last longer if you use it in favorable conditions. For example, if you only use your tent in warm, dry weather, it will last longer than if you use it in cold, wet weather. This is because extreme weather conditions can damage the materials of your tent.

Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of a Rooftop Tent

Here are some tips for prolonging the lifespan of your rooftop tent:

Clean Your Tent Regularly

You should ensure that you clean your tent regularly. This will help to remove any dirt, dust, or other debris that could damage the materials of your tent. Use a soft brush or cloth and mild soap to clean the tent. Avoid using harsh detergents, as these can damage the materials of your tent.

Waterproof Your Tent

Waterproofing your tent is also essential for prolonging its lifespan. This will help to protect your tent from the elements and prevent it from developing leaks or holes. There are various waterproofing products on the market, so choose one compatible with your tent’s materials.

Store Your Tent Properly

You should ensure that you store your tent correctly when you’re not using it. This will help to protect your tent from the elements and prevent it from developing holes or tears. To store your tent, fold it and put it in a bag. Keep your tent in a cool, dry place.

Choose a Quality Tent

As mentioned above, the brand and manufacturing quality are essential factors in determining the lifespan of a tent. So, research before purchasing a tent to ensure you’re getting a quality product.

Inspect Your Tent Regularly

Regularly inspect your tent to check for any holes, leaks, or other defects. If you find any problems, repair them immediately to prevent further damage. When inspecting, check the seams, zippers, fabric, and poles.

Set Up the Tent Properly

Sometimes when setting up the tent, you might accidentally damage it. So, be careful when unfolding and assembling the tent to avoid any problems. If it happens you do damage the tent, don’t worry. Most tents come with repair kits that you can use to fix any minor issues.

How Long Do Rooftop Tents Last? | FAQs

How fast can you drive with a roof tent?

It would be best to drive slowly with a rooftop tent. I recommend a speed of 75 miles or less. A speed more than this will create a lot of wind noise and can damage the tent cover.

How do I know if my roof tent is waterproof?

To know if your rooftop is waterproof, look for a certification label from a trusted organization like The Rainforest Alliance. This will ensure that your tent has been tested and meets the necessary standards. You can also waterproof your tent by using a spray-on waterproofing product.

Can you leave a roof tent up all year?

I recommend leaving your roof tent up only some of the year. The materials will start to degrade over time, and it’s unnecessary unless you use them frequently. If you leave your roof up all year, I recommend you take it down at least once per season to clean it thoroughly.

Can you leave your rooftop tent on top of your car?

Most cars were not originally designed to support the weight of a rooftop tent. I recommend you take your tent down when you’re not using it and store it in a cool, dry place. It will save you on gas as well.

Final Thoughts

Rooftop tents can last many years if properly cared for and used in favorable conditions. Be sure to clean, waterproof, and store your tent correctly when not in use. Additionally, choose a quality tent from a reputable brand. This article has helped you to understand how long rooftop tents last.