10 Best Rooftop Tents 2025 in the United States

The Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell (Sirius 1 Plus) offers a roomy and practical solution for car camping, accommodating 2-3 people comfortably. Its folding design makes it compact (62x51x12 inches) when closed, expanding to a spacious 82.6x63x43 inches when opened. Constructed from ABS plastic and aluminum alloy, the tent is durable yet lightweight, reducing strain on your vehicle and fuel consumption.

The 420D Oxford fabric ensures the tent is waterproof, windproof, UV-resistant, and blackout, making it suitable for all four seasons. High-quality components like 316 stainless steel gas springs and YKK zippers contribute to its longevity, with a service life of up to 15,000 uses for the springs. The two-layer mattress design (1.38-inch non-deformed mattress and 0.19-inch condensation pad) enhances comfort and reduces internal condensation.

Setup is user-friendly and quick, typically taking around 10 minutes. The tent includes support rods, an extension ladder, shoe bags, and necessary tools for assembly. However, weighing 160 pounds, it might be relatively heavy for some users to manage alone. Additionally, its price point might be on the higher side for those on a budget. Despite these drawbacks, the tent's strong weather resistance and comprehensive warranty make it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable rooftop tent for extended outdoor adventures.

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.

The Thule Approach M rooftop tent stands out for its spacious design and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for campers looking for comfort on the go. With a roomy interior that accommodates up to three people and their gear, it shines in the size and sleeping capacity department. The tent's modern shape maximizes living space, allowing for a more enjoyable camping experience.

One of its significant advantages is the quick setup—taking just under three minutes to unpack and unfold. The lockable mounting brackets also simplify installation, securing the tent to your roof rack faster than traditional options, which is a real time-saver for adventure seekers. Furthermore, the panoramic skylights and windows enhance ventilation and provide a great stargazing experience, bringing you closer to nature.

In terms of durability, the tent is made from water-resistant materials, which is essential for outdoor use. It has a water resistance rating of 5000, suitable for light to moderate rain. However, it’s not entirely waterproof, so heavy downpours could be a concern. The removable rain cover offers versatility in varying weather conditions. The tent's weight of 128 pounds may be cumbersome for some users, particularly when it comes to lifting or maneuvering it onto a vehicle. While it’s designed for three seasons, those planning to camp in harsher winter conditions might find it inadequate.