10 Best Rooftop Tents 2026 in the United States

This rooftop tent is designed for car camping and fits SUVs, trucks, and sedans, comfortably sleeping 2 to 4 people depending on how you arrange sleeping space. It’s quite sturdy, weighing 80 kg (about 176 pounds), mainly due to its aerospace-grade aluminum frame, which offers strong support for up to 400 kg statically. While it’s heavier than some soft-shell tents, this solid construction promises durability and safety, even in tough weather conditions.

The tent’s hard shell and triple-coated 600D Oxford fabric make it waterproof and windproof, standing up well to rain, snow, and winds up to 65 mph. It also offers UV protection and is insulated to keep the inside comfortable across seasons, from cold alpine nights to warm desert days. Ventilation is managed by thermal-insulated liners and anti-condensation pads, helping reduce noise and maintain temperature, which is a great feature for noisy campgrounds or bad weather.

Setup is straightforward with a patented QuickSnap buckle system, allowing one person to open the tent in about 90 seconds. The tent extends from a compact 18 cm profile to a full 110 cm height, providing enough headroom to move around comfortably. Included roof racks add utility for carrying extra gear like kayaks or ladders. The tent’s weight might make installation and removal challenging for some users if done frequently. Its large size requires a suitable roof rack and enough roof space on the vehicle. Although it claims to fit 4 people, that could be tight depending on the users’ sizes and gear. This rooftop tent suits outdoor enthusiasts looking for a robust, weather-resistant shelter that’s relatively easy to set up and comfortable in all seasons. It’s particularly good for longer trips and rough conditions but might be less ideal for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight or compact gear.

The Joyinrute Rooftop Tent is a solid choice for campers wanting a durable, all-weather shelter that fits 2 to 3 people comfortably. Made from high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum, its hard shell is built to last and can handle significant weight, reducing worries about durability over time. The tent measures about 83 by 52 inches with a rectangular shape, providing enough space for two adults with some room to spare. While it weighs around 178 pounds, which is on the heavier side, this weight reflects its sturdy build and the inclusion of winter insulation.

Setup is designed to be user-friendly thanks to four hydraulic support rods that help the tent open and close smoothly. You can expect to spend about 20 minutes assembling it onto your vehicle, with all necessary tools included. This makes it accessible even if you're new to rooftop tents. Ventilation is well thought out, featuring four windows with mesh, windproof, and thermal layers to keep airflow balanced while protecting you from bugs and weather. The tent’s polyester fabric offers a strong 5000mm water resistance and UV protection, suitable for sun, rain, and moderate wind conditions (up to grade 6). The included winter insulation liner can be removed when not needed, making this tent adaptable across seasons.

Additional features like a flocked lining floor help reduce condensation, improving sleeping comfort. The package also includes useful extras such as a telescoping ladder, mattress, internal storage bags, LED lighting, and shoe organizers, making camping more convenient. The heavier weight may require a sturdier vehicle roof rack and could impact fuel efficiency. Also, while the tent is sized for 2-3 people, larger groups might find it cramped. Installation is straightforward but still requires some effort due to the weight and size. This rooftop tent is ideal for those seeking a durable, all-season setup with thoughtful extras for comfort and organization, particularly suited to SUV, truck, or van owners who prioritize toughness and a quick 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.