10 Best Rooftop Tents 2026 in the United States

The Sanhima Hotham Lite Rooftop Tent is a solid choice for campers looking for a lightweight and easy-to-set-up rooftop tent. Weighing in at just 134.48 lbs, it’s 32% lighter than its predecessor, which not only enhances transport and handling but also improves fuel efficiency when traveling. The tent has a slim profile, packing down to 4.57 inches, making it suitable for tight storage spaces and reducing wind resistance, which is a great advantage for on-the-road travelers.

The tent’s AquaShield technology offers impressive weather protection, boasting a waterproof rating of 5,000mm and UV 50+ protection. This means you can camp confidently in various weather conditions. The aluminum honeycomb structure provides good insulation, enhancing comfort whether in hot or cool climates. Inside, the tent features a spacious area for 2-3 people, alongside a cozy 1.97-inch thick mattress, which adds to a restful camping experience.

Setting up the tent is a breeze—taking only about 30 seconds, thanks to gas struts that assist with opening and closing. This quick setup feature is a major plus for those who want to spend less time assembling and more time enjoying the outdoors. The tent also includes handy features like storage pockets, a shoe bag, and a tri-color LED strip light, which enhances nighttime comfort. However, while the tent excels in many areas, it does have some drawbacks. The maximum occupancy of three people may feel cramped for some, especially on extended trips. Additionally, the setup requires a roof rack for installation, which might not be available on all vehicles. Despite these minor concerns, the Sanhima Hotham Lite Rooftop Tent remains an excellent option for camping enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, user-friendly tent that stands up well against the elements.

The SanHima Hotham Side rooftop tent is a solid choice for car or SUV campers looking for a spacious, durable shelter that sleeps 2-3 people comfortably. It offers a roomy interior (about 81 by 60 inches) and extra headroom thanks to its side-opening design, making it easy to get in and out. The included 1.6-inch cloud foam mattress adds a good level of comfort for restful sleep. Weighing 145.5 pounds and just 4.5 inches thick when closed, it keeps a low profile to help with fuel efficiency and parking convenience.

The tent’s hard shell and floor use aluminum honeycomb for sturdy insulation, keeping the inside warm in cold weather and cool when it’s hot. Made from waterproof and UV-resistant 420D Oxford and polyester-cotton fabrics, it’s built to withstand rain, wind, and sun – suitable for all four seasons. Ventilation is excellent with breathable mesh windows and a skyview window that lets you enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from bugs. Setup is straightforward and quick, requiring just a few simple steps, and handy storage pockets inside help keep things organized. The tri-color LED lighting offers adjustable brightness for different moods.

While 145.5 pounds is relatively light for a hard shell tent, it still requires a sturdy roof rack and vehicle capable of handling the weight. Additionally, the absence of assembly instructions may pose a challenge for first-time users. This tent is designed for those wanting a weatherproof, easy-to-use rooftop tent with a mix of comfort and durability for year-round adventures, though beginners might benefit from some extra assistance during setup.

The Thule Approach XL is a spacious rooftop tent designed to comfortably sleep 3 to 4 people, making it a great choice for families or small groups who want extra room. It features a large interior with panoramic windows that provide great ventilation and allow you to enjoy nature views and stargazing while keeping the tent cool. The tent is made from durable polyester material, offering good weather resistance, especially with a removable rain cover that adapts to different conditions. Weighing around 68 kilograms, it’s on the heavier side, so your vehicle will need to support that weight on its roof racks.

One of the standout features is how fast and easy it is to set up and take down—under 3 minutes—thanks to its soft shell design and smart folding system. The lockable mounting brackets add security and simplify installation compared to many other rooftop tents. The included dual-density memory foam mattress adds a touch of comfort that’s often missing in tents at this level. However, the tent's weight might make it less suitable for smaller vehicles or those with limited roof load capacity. Also, while the tent offers excellent ventilation, soft shell designs can sometimes be less insulated than hard shell versions, which may be a consideration for colder climates.

The Thule Approach XL is ideal for campers seeking a roomy, comfortable, and quick-to-set-up rooftop tent that performs well in various weather conditions.