10 Best Rooftop Tents 2026 in the United States

The Arctwonder Rooftop Tent is designed for two people and offers a sturdy, durable setup thanks to its aluminum alloy hard shell and high-quality polyester fabric with 5000mm waterproof rating. This makes it a solid choice for all-season camping, including winter, as it features a removable thermal layer to keep the interior warm. The tent measures a spacious 83 by 51 inches on the floor, with a triangular shape that fits well on various vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and vans.

Despite its substantial weight of 198 pounds, the tent is designed for relatively quick installation, featuring air pressure rods that allow one person to pop it open in about 10 seconds and close it in two simple steps. The low 7-inch closed height helps maintain vehicle clearance. Ventilation is addressed with mesh windows, helping reduce condensation and improve airflow. Additional practical features include a built-in solar panel for charging devices, a 12V outlet, a thick 6cm mattress for comfort, LED strip lighting, and multiple storage bags that help organize gear.

Its weight requires careful consideration of the vehicle roof capacity, and the initial full assembly may take up to 30 minutes. While the hard shell and materials enhance durability and weather protection, the tent’s size and shape might be less convenient for smaller vehicles or those seeking ultra-lightweight setups. This tent is well suited for campers looking for a rugged, weather-resistant two-person rooftop tent with winter readiness and extra tech conveniences.

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 S rooftop tent is designed to comfortably fit two people, offering a spacious interior thanks to its modern rectangular shape. Measuring about 7 feet long and 4 feet wide, it’s ideal for couples or solo campers who want extra room for gear. Weighing 110 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, so you’ll need a sturdy roof rack and vehicle capable of supporting that weight. Made with durable materials like aluminum poles and a polyethylene floor, it promises good longevity and solid protection.

Its 1500 mm water resistance rating and removable rain cover with multiple modes mean it can handle various weather conditions, making it suitable for year-round camping. Ventilation is a strong point here, with panoramic skylights and a window that allow air flow and let you enjoy starry nights. Setup is impressively quick—under 3 minutes—thanks to the lockable mounting brackets and simple unfolding design, which also secures the tent safely to your roof.

While it’s a bit heavy and might require some effort to install initially, the torque-limiting tool helps make this process safer and easier. Some may find the size better suited for shorter trips or smaller vehicles due to its compact footprint, but the compatibility with awnings adds extra living space if needed. If you’re looking for a durable, weather-ready rooftop tent with fast setup and good ventilation for two people, the Thule Approach S is a solid choice.