Roof-Top Tents
(15 products)ThuleTepui Foothill Tent
$1,699.95Sleeping Capacity:2-personPackaged Weight:108 lbs.Seasons:3-seasonPeak Height:38 in.- Top Rated
KeltyWaypoint Car Tarp
$139.95Weight:8 lbs. 5 oz.Covered Area:85 sq. ft.Peak Height:94.5 in. iKamperBDV Duo Tent
$2,799.00Sleeping Capacity:2-personPackaged Weight:200 lbs.Seasons:4-seasonPeak Height:59 in.KeltyBackroads Shelter
$169.95Weight:11 lbs. 9 oz.Covered Area:55 sq. ft. (Sprinter Van); 75 sq. ft. (Subaru Forester) sq. ft.Peak Height:108 in. (Sprinter Van); 80 in. (Subaru Forester) in.REI Co-opTrailgate Shelter
$199.00Covered Area:99.2 sq. ft.Peak Height:75 in.REI Co-opBase Camp Vehicle Connector
$199.00Weight:7 lbs. 9.9 oz.Covered Area:62.2 sq. ft.Peak Height:92 in.Big AgnesSand Wash Car Tarp
$218.73Save 45%compared to $399.95Peak Height:164 in.REI OUTLET- Top Rated
KeltySideroads Car Awning
$129.95Weight:8 lbs. 14 oz.Covered Area:55 sq. ft. (Sprinter Van); 75 sq. ft. (Subaru Forester) sq. ft.Peak Height:108 in. (Sprinter Van); 80 in. (Subaru Forester) in. DometicTRT 140 Air Tent
$2,500.00Sleeping Capacity:2-personPackaged Weight:104 lbs.Seasons:3-seasonPeak Height:43 in.DometicRT Awning L - Tall
$530.00Weight:18 lbs. 4.2 oz.ThuleApproach Awning - Small/Medium
$349.95Covered Area:92 sq. ft.DometicRT Awning S - Low
$500.00Weight:17 lbs. 6.7 oz.YakimaMajorShady 270-Degree Roof-Mounted Awning - LH
$758.93Save 20%compared to $949.00Weight:46 lbs. 8 oz.Covered Area:80 sq. ft.YakimaMajorShady 270-Degree Roof-Mounted Awning - RH
$758.93Save 20%compared to $949.00Weight:46 lbs. 8 oz.Covered Area:80 sq. ft.Big AgnesSand Wash Car Tarp
$238.73Save 40%compared to $399.95Weight:7 lbs. 6 oz.Covered Area:141 sq. ft.REI OUTLET
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Frequently asked questions about roof-top tents
Roof-Top Tents
Part treehouse and part glamping tent, roof-top tents are an intriguing alternative to traditional tents that you see pitched at most car campgrounds. You can find models that fit on top of a car or truck.
If you're thinking about buying a roof-top tent, consider a few pros and cons:
- Easy setup: Simply undo a few straps, pop it open and secure a few things.
- Burly yet comfy:Made to withstand stormy weather while also including creature comforts like a foam mattress.
- Camp anywhere:Find a place to park and you've found a place to pitch it.
- Pricey:Many will cost more than $1,000.
- Roof-bound:Causes drag when driving; has to be taken down if you drive away from camp for the day; removing/remounting from the roof between trips can be a chore.
Fitting a Roof-Top Tent to Your Vehicle
If you don't have one, you'll need to buy a roof rack to serve as the tent's foundation. Rack brands like Yakima, Thule and others typically have greater weight capacities than factory car racks, which make them well-suited for a roof-top tent.
Next, check your owner's manual or contact your vehicle and rack manufacturers to get the information below, which can narrow down models that will work for your vehicle.
- Total tent weight: Find it in product information for each tent.
- Car and rack dynamic weight capacity:This will be a separate spec for your vehicle and your rack.
- Static weight capacity:Confirms that your vehicle and your rack will support the weight of your tent, plus everyone in it and their sleeping gear.
- Rack compatibility:Some racks are listed as "not compatible" with certain tent models.
Mounting your tent to your car rack: It can be a little complex, so follow mounting directions carefully. Also, roof-top tents are heavy, so having a partner helps.
Add-on options: Some tents offer separately purchased annexes or awnings for more living space.
Other Types of Tents
If you're not yet sure that a roof-top purchase is exactly what you want, below are some other tent types to consider:
- Camping tents: When shopping for a camping tent, consider sleeping capacity, seasonality and other features. Read Best Camping Tents of 2020 for quick picks.
- Backpacking tents: Pack weight and budget are some key considerations when choosing a tent to take into the backcountry. Best Backpacking Tents offers a curated short list.
- Shelters: Whether you're seeking sun canopies, bug refuges or a simple tarp, REI gives you options.
- Hammock tents: These ultralight shelters combine a hammock with weather protection overhead and bug protection all around.
More Reasons to Shop at REI
REI carries top roof-top tent brands like Thule, iKamper and Tepui. We also offer checklists and a vast selection of the best camping gear to help get you ready for your next outdoor adventure.