Why Are Rooftop Tents So Expensive? ( 9 Reasons And Alternatives)

Why Are Rooftop Tents So Expensive?

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If you’re in the market for a rooftop tent, you may have been surprised by how expensive they are. Why do they cost so much, and is there anything you can do to reduce the cost?

The rooftop tents are expensive because you have to buy third-party racks with them. These tents are also durable and easy to set up; they offer comfort and safety. They also have solid baseboards and come with a couple of accessories.

In this blog post, I will explore nine reasons why rooftop tents are so expensive and offer alternatives that may be more affordable.

Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell Rooftop Tents

It is important to note that there are two types of rooftop tents: hard shell and soft shell. Soft shell tents are foldable, thus enabling you to assemble them quickly, and are pretty spacious.

On the other hand, hard shell tents have a solid and rigid structure. They are also easy to set up but offer less space than their soft-shell counterparts.

Hard shell tents are more expensive than soft shell tents because they offer more features and benefits. For instance, hard shell tents are more aerodynamic, which means that they cause less drag when you are driving.

This, in turn, results in better fuel economy. Hard shell tents are more durable than soft shell tents and can withstand more wear and tear.

The assembly of the soft shell tents may also take time since you have to unfold them. Hard shell tents, on the other hand, come pre-assembled, which makes them easier to set up.

9 Reasons Why Rooftops Are Expensive

Here is a detailed discussion of why rooftop tents are expensive:

They Include the Price of Third-Party Racks

When you buy a rooftop tent, you will also have to purchase third-party racks to mount the tent on your vehicle. The rooftop tent is designed to require a sturdy anchor point, which is where the shelves come in.

The cost of the third-party racks can range from $200 to $600, depending on the brand and the type of rack. This is one of the reasons why rooftop tents are so expensive.

Durability

Rooftop tents are designed to be durable. They can withstand all weather conditions, from hot summers to cold winters. Most hardshell rooftops come with lifetime guarantees covering damage to their external shells.

The durability of the rooftop tents also makes them ideal for off-road adventures. They can handle all types of terrain, from rocks to mud.

Easy to Set Up

Another reason rooftop tents are so expensive is that they are easy to set up. Most tents come with an easy-to-follow instruction manual that will help you set up the tent in no time.

Hard shells have an automated mechanism that pops the tent up in seconds, while soft shells can be set up in minutes. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to hit the road immediately without spending hours setting up their tent.

Comfort

Rooftop tents are also known for their comfort. They are spacious and provide plenty of room for you to move around. Most tents come with comfortable mattresses and pillows so that you can get a good night’s sleep.

The tents are also well-ventilated, so you won’t have to worry about feeling claustrophobic. Some also include sky windows, sturdy walls, and mattresses to provide you with the ultimate camping experience.

Safety

Rooftop tents are also an excellent option for those who want to camp in safety. They are elevated off the ground, so you won’t have to worry about animals or bugs bothering you during sleep.

Most of these tents also come with rain flies, protecting you from the elements. The tents are also sturdy and can withstand high winds.

Privacy

Rooftop tents offer privacy, which is something that most campers crave. They are elevated off the ground, so you won’t have to worry about people seeing you while you sleep.

The tents are also roomy enough to change your clothes inside without feeling cramped. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to camp in peace.

Baseboard

The rooftop tents have a strong baseboard connecting the vehicle to the tent’s base. This ensures that the tent is sturdy and does not wobble when you are inside.

The baseboard also protects your vehicle from scratches and dents. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to keep their vehicle in good condition. Your tent will not topple over in high winds because it is securely attached to your car.

Versatility

Rooftop tents are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities. They are great for camping but can also be used for beach, fishing, and even road trips.

The tents are roomy enough to store all your gear, so you won’t have to leave anything behind. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to use their tent for multiple purposes.

Accessories

You will mostly find a field tent with only some of the necessary accessories when going for a field tent. For example, you will need to buy an annex separately, which can be used as a changing room or a storage area.

With a rooftop tent, it comes with accessories included. This is an excellent benefit for those who want to save money and get all the accessories they need in one purchase.

These accessories include additional awnings, rain flies, annexes, and more. If you are willing to spend more, you can get a customized tent with all the necessary features.

What are the Alternatives to Rooftop Tents

There are some alternatives to rooftop tents that offer similar benefits. These include:

Truck Bed Tents

These tents are similar to rooftop tents but are designed to fit in the bed of your truck. They are an excellent option for those who want to camp in their vehicle.

The tents are roomy and offer plenty of space for you and your gear. They are also well-ventilated and come with rain flies for protection from the elements.

Teardrop Trailers

Teardrop trailers are a great alternative to tents. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to tow. A teardrop is a streamlined, lightweight, compact caravan you can tow behind your car.

Pop-Up Campers

If you are budget conscious, you can go for this option. Pop-up campers are a great alternative to tents and offer many of the same benefits.

The campers are roomy and can accommodate up to six people. They can fold when not in use, making them easy to store and transport.

Regular Tents

You can also buy a regular tent if you want to save money. Traditional tents are an excellent option for those who wish to camp on a budget.

Traditional tents are available in various sizes, so you can choose one that is big enough for you and your gear. They are also easy to set up and take down.

Final Thoughts

Rooftop tents are an excellent option for those who want to camp in comfort and style. They are roomy, well-ventilated, and offer stunning views. However, they are also expensive. This article has helped you understand why rooftop tents are so expensive and whether they are worth the investment.

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