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Rooftop tents (RTTs) have become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts who want a comfortable and convenient camping experience. They offer a way to camp without setting up a traditional tent on the ground, providing a safe and elevated sleeping area.
However, one of the biggest concerns regarding RTTs is their weight. If you plan to take your vehicle off-road or on long trips, a heavy RTT can weigh you down and negatively affect fuel efficiency.
This article will discuss the top 10 lightest rooftop tents on the market, so you can find one that meets your needs without adding extra weight to your vehicle. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with a group, there’s a lightweight RTT out there for you.
How to Choose the Lightest Rooftop Tent
If you’re looking for a rooftop tent that won’t weigh down your vehicle, there are a few factors to consider when selecting.
Here are some essential features to keep in mind when choosing the lightest rooftop tent:
Weight
The weight of the rooftop tent is the most critical factor to consider when looking for a lightweight option. Remember that the weight listed by the manufacturer may not include any additional accessories or the importance of the mounting system.
The total weight of the tent and accessories should be considered to ensure that you’re within your vehicle’s weight capacity. A lighter tent will also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, which is vital for planning a long trip.
Quality of Material
The quality of the material used to construct the rooftop tent is another important factor. Look for a tent made from durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Materials such as ripstop nylon, waterproof coatings, and sturdy aluminum frames are all indicators of quality construction.
Price
The price of a rooftop tent can vary greatly depending on the brand, features, and quality of construction. Consider your budget when selecting a tent, but a higher price may indicate better quality materials and construction.
Space
Consider how many people will use the rooftop tent and how much space you need. Look for a tent that comfortably accommodates everyone, but remember that larger tents may be heavier. Also, consider the headroom and storage options in the tent.
Ease of Use
Choose a rooftop tent that is easy to set up and take down. Look for a tent that includes clear instructions and a straightforward mounting system.
Features such as a built-in ladder and easy-to-use zippers can make the camping experience more enjoyable.
Warranty
Finally, consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A more extended warranty can provide peace of mind and indicate that the manufacturer has confidence in the quality of their product. Look for a warranty that covers any defects in materials or craft for a reasonable period.
Top 10 Lightest Rooftop Tents
Here is our list of the best ten lightest RTTs:
Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland
The Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent is a lightweight, durable option designed for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
The tent is made from waterproof polyester fabric and features a high-density foam mattress for a comfortable sleeping surface. The tent can accommodate up to 2 people and is easy to set up.
Key Features:
• Waterproof polyester fabric
• High-density foam mattress
• Easy setup and installation
• Accommodates up to 2 people
• Lightweight and durable construction
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• It comes with a comfortable foam mattress for a good night’s sleep
• Durable and designed for severe outdoor use
Cons:
• More expensive compared to some other options
• Only suitable for up to 2 people
Verdict: The Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent (Amazon link) is an excellent choice for severe outdoor enthusiasts needing a lightweight, durable, and comfortable adventure.
It may be more expensive than other options, but its quality and durability make it worth the investment.
Thule Tepui Ayer 2
The Thule Tepui Ayer 2 Rooftop Tent is a lightweight and spacious option accommodating up to 2 people. The tent is made from durable, waterproof polyester fabric.
It also comes with a high-density foam mattress for a comfortable sleeping surface. It also includes a telescoping ladder and a built-in awning for added convenience.
Key Features:
• Waterproof polyester fabric
• High-density foam mattress
• Accommodates up to 2 people
• Built-in awning
• Telescoping ladder
Pros:
• Lightweight and spacious
• It comes with a comfortable foam mattress for a good night’s sleep
• Includes a built-in awning and telescoping ladder for added convenience
Cons:
• More expensive compared to some other options
• It may be more challenging to set up compared to some other options
Verdict: The Thule Tepui Ayer 2 Rooftop Tent (Amazon link) is an excellent choice for those who need a lightweight and spacious option that can accommodate up to 2 people. Its built-in awning and telescoping ladder makes it a convenient and comfortable choice for outdoor adventures.
Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent
The Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent is a lightweight and durable option that can accommodate up to 3 people. This tent comes in polyurethane-coated polyester fabric. It also includes a telescoping ladder and built-in LED strip lighting.
Key Features:
• Waterproof, polyurethane-coated polyester fabric
• High-density foam mattress
• Accommodates up to 3 people
• Built-in LED strip lighting
• Telescoping ladder
Pros:
• Lightweight and spacious
• It comes with a comfortable foam mattress for a good night’s sleep
• Includes built-in LED strip lighting and telescoping ladder for added convenience
Cons:
• It may be more challenging to set up compared to some other options.
Verdict: The Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent (Amazon link) is a great choice that can accommodate up to 3 people. While it may be more expensive, its features, including the built-in LED strip lighting and telescoping ladder, make it worth your money.
iKamper Skycamp 2.0
The iKamper Skycamp 2.0 Rooftop Tent is a lightweight option that weighs 155 pounds. It can accommodate up to four people and features a hard-shell design for added durability and protection.
The tent also includes a comfortable memory foam mattress, skylight windows for ventilation and views, and a large canopy for additional shade.
Key Features:
• Hard-shell design
• Comfortable memory foam mattress included
• Skylight windows and a large canopy for ventilation and shade
Pros:
• Lightweight for a hard-shell option
• Durable materials
• Added features for comfort and convenience
Cons:
• It may not be suitable for larger groups
Verdict: The iKamper Skycamp 2.0 Rooftop Tent is an excellent option for those looking for a lightweight hard-shell rooftop tent with added features for comfort and convenience. Its high-quality materials and additional features make it worth the investment.
DANCHEL OUTDOOR Lightweight Rooftop Tent
DANCHEL OUTDOOR Lightweight Rooftop Tent
The DANCHEL OUTDOOR Lightweight Rooftop Tent is a high-quality option that weighs only 95 pounds, making it one of the lightest rooftop tents on the market. This tent is made from high-quality, waterproof 420D Oxford fabric and features a rainfly and a heavy-duty aluminum frame.
The tent has ample interior space, measuring 96 inches by 56 inches, and can comfortably accommodate up to three people. The tent also has large windows for ventilation and a built-in skylight for stargazing.
Key Features:
• It weighs only 95 pounds
• Made from high-quality, waterproof 420D Oxford fabric
• The ample interior space measures 96 inches by 56 inches
• Accommodates up to three people
• Large windows on both sides for ventilation
• Built-in skylight for stargazing
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• High-quality materials and construction
• Spacious interior with ample ventilation
• Built-in skylight for stargazing
Cons:
• Some users have reported needing help with the included ladder.
Verdict: The DANCHEL OUTDOOR Lightweight Rooftop Tent (Amazon link) is a high-quality option that offers ample space and ventilation for up to three people. It comes with sturdy construction and a built-in skylight, making it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and durability.
Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup
This tent is a durable and lightweight option that weighs only 89 pounds. It features a sturdy aluminum frame, a high-quality, waterproof fabric shell, and a built-in rainfly for added protection from the elements.
The tent has a spacious interior, Made to fit a 5.5 ft bed like a glove. It also fits 6.5 foot and 8 foot 8ft beds and can comfortably accommodate up to two people. The tent also features large windows for ventilation and a built-in awning for additional shelter.
Key Features:
• It weighs only 13.5 pounds
• Sturdy aluminum frame and waterproof fabric shell
• Spacious interior measures 4 x 8.5 x 8.1 feet
• Accommodates up to two people
• Large windows on both sides for ventilation
• Built-in awning for additional shelter
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Durable construction with high-quality materials
• Spacious interior with ample ventilation
• Built-in awning for additional shelter
Cons:
• A bit pricey
Verdict: The Truck Bed Tent Automatic Setup (Amazon link) is a durable, high-quality option offering ample space and two-person ventilation.
TMBK 3 Person Rooftop Tent
The TMBK 3-Person Roof Top Tent (Amazon link) is a lightweight, compact solo or two-person camping option.
It has a durable, waterproof polyester fabric reinforced with fiberglass poles for added stability. The tent can be easily installed on most roof racks and has a telescoping ladder for easy access.
Key Features:
• Waterproof polyester fabric
• Fibreglass poles for added stability
• It fits most roof racks
• Telescoping ladder included
• Lightweight and compact design
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Affordable price point
• It comes with a telescoping ladder for easy access
Cons:
• Not as spacious as some other options
• It may not be suitable for extreme weather conditions
Roofnest Falcon Rooftop Tent
The Roofnest Falcon Rooftop Tent is a lightweight, aerodynamic option for easy installation and comfortable camping. It has a durable, waterproof polyester fabric reinforced with light aluminum poles for stability.
The tent can accommodate up to 2 people and features a comfortable, high-density foam mattress for a good night’s sleep.
Key Features:
• Waterproof polyester fabric
• Lightweight aluminum poles for added stability
• Accommodates up to 2 people
• Comfortable, high-density foam mattress
• Aerodynamic design
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• Aerodynamic design reduces wind drag and noise
• It comes with a comfortable foam mattress for a good night’s sleep
Cons:
• More spacious than other options, only suitable for up to 2 people.
• Very expensive.
Thule Tepui Baja Series Ayer Rooftop Tent
The Thule Tepui Baja Series Ayer is a high-quality rooftop tent designed to provide exceptional comfort and protection from the elements.
It is made with durable and weather-resistant materials, making it an excellent choice for outdoor adventurers. It is also relatively lightweight, weighing in at only 95 pounds.
Key Features:
• Made with high-quality ripstop nylon material
• Features a durable aluminum frame that can support up to 400 pounds
• It comes with a comfortable 2.5-inch foam mattress
• Features mesh windows and a high-quality rainfly for ventilation and weather protection
• It can be set up in minutes with no tools required
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to install
• It provides excellent weather protection and ventilation
• Durable and built to last
Cons:
• It may be too small for some users
• Pricey
Verdict: The Thule Tepui Baja Series Ayer is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality and durable rooftop tent that is relatively lightweight and easy to install.
Darche Hi-View 1600 Rooftop Tent
The Darche Hi-View 1600 is a spacious, comfortable rooftop tent that provides exceptional views and ventilation. It is made with high-quality materials and features a sturdy aluminum frame supporting up to 661 pounds. Despite its size, it is relatively lightweight, weighing only 132 pounds.
Key Features:
• Made with high-quality ripstop poly-cotton canvas material
• Features a durable aluminum frame that can support up to 661 pounds
• It comes with a comfortable high-density foam mattress
• Features a large skylight and windows for exceptional views and ventilation
• It can be set up in minutes with no tools required
Pros:
• Spacious and comfortable
• It provides exceptional views and ventilation
• Durable and built to last
Cons:
• Pricey
Verdict: The Darche Hi-View 1600 is an excellent choice for a spacious, comfortable rooftop tent with exceptional views and ventilation. However, it is relatively heavy and may not be suitable for smaller vehicles.
Yakima SkyCamp Rooftop Tent
The Yakima SkyCamp Rooftop Tent is another great option for a lightweight tent. It weighs only 115 pounds and can accommodate up to four people.
The tent features a durable 210D nylon ripstop fabric with a waterproof and breathable coating. It also includes a built-in mattress with high-density foam that provides a comfortable sleeping surface.
Key Features:
• Lightweight and spacious
• Waterproof and breathable fabric
• Built-in mattress with high-density foam
• It can accommodate up to four people
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to set up
• Spacious and comfortable
Cons:
• It may not be as durable as other options
Lightest Roof Top Tents: FAQ
Are rooftop tents easy to set up?
Yes, rooftop tents are designed to be easy to set up. Most models come with an attached ladder and can be opened and closed with just a few simple steps.
However, practicing setting up your tent before you hit the road is vital to ensure you’re comfortable with the process.
Can I leave my rooftop tent set up while I drive?
It is not safe to leave your rooftop tent set up while you drive. While some models may claim to be “driveable,” it’s not recommended as it can create wind resistance and affect vehicle handling. Always take down your tent before hitting the road.
Do I need a unique roof rack to install a rooftop tent?
You will need a sturdy roof rack to install a rooftop tent. The frame should be rated to carry the weight of your tent and be securely mounted to your vehicle’s roof.
It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and seek professional installation if you need more confidence installing the rack.
Can I use a rooftop tent in any weather condition?
While many rooftop tents are designed to withstand various weather conditions, choosing a tent appropriate for your climate is crucial.
Some models are better suited for extreme temperatures or heavy rain than others, so research your options and choose a tent that meets your needs. Additionally, it’s essential to properly maintain your tent to ensure that it stays in good condition over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the lightest rooftop tent for your camping needs can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. By considering factors such as weight, material quality, price, space, ease of use, and warranty, you can find a tent that meets your needs and fits your budget.
With the top 10 lightweight rooftop tents reviewed here, you have a good starting point to search for the perfect tent. Always prioritize safety and comfort when choosing your rooftop tent, and enjoy your outdoor adventures.
We’re passionate about getting the most from your car when it comes to going on adventures and road trips. When you take one of these trips you often need more room in your car than you usually would. This is when we come in, to help you find the best roof tent for your car and needs.