Why Roof Top Tents Are So Popular
In today’s blog we aim to demystify roof top tents. We’ll break down what they are, what to look out for when buying one and how to make the best use out of yours.
What is a roof top tent?
A roof top tent is a type of camping tent that can be mounted on top of a vehicle, usually a car, truck or a camper trailer.
Roof top tents are not a new invention but they are becoming increasingly popular as people look for fresh ways to set up camp. Roof top tents are ideal for people who want to go camping with the ease of setting up in seconds and sleeping off the ground on a nice comfortable mattress.
Roof top tents may not be historically mainstream, but have existed for decades. They provide an affordable and comfortable way to camp with your vehicle. All you need is a set of roof bars and you’re away when it comes to getting your vehicle roof top tent ready.
But why should you buy one?
We’re an official TentBox dealer and will use the this product as our primary roof top tent case study today.
Quick To Set Up And Pack Away
You will need to purchase the TentBox itself, as well as a set of roof bars. Roof bars are inexpensive and easy to install. After installing your TentBox on the roof bars, you can secure it using the clamps that are included (we provide a fitting service to make this as easy as possible)
A TentBox can be left on your vehicle all year round, ready for spontaneous getaways.
More affordable than Caravans, Campervans And Motorhomes
Roof tents are a great alternative to campervans, caravans and motorhomes as they’re cheaper to buy and have fewer ongoing costs. There’s no outgoings for additional storage space or extra van insurance with a roof tent and so is great cost saver the longer you own one. In addition, you don’t have the same maintenance costs that comes with campervans and motorhomes.
Provide more freedom
You no longer have to worry about finding a large, flat, dry, soft surface to get set up. This can be invaluable when visiting areas with difficult terrain and wet conditions. No one enjoys fiddling around with tent poles in the rain on a wet field! What’s more, you can also camp in areas with less space around the vehicle that would otherwise be limited with traditional tents.
Stronger than tents
TentBox have been tested, upgraded and improved over many years. Those roof tents are made of the best quality materials, have a stronger structure, and are leakproof, making them more comfortable shelters than many regular tents.
How to choose a roof top tent?
We are offering all three TentBox models to choose from: the TentBox Lite -the entry level model, the TentBox Classic - built for comfort and the TentBox Cargo - built for adventure.
To help you choose the right TentBox for you and your lifestyle we will run through their key differences.
Whether you're looking for a soft shell or hard shell roof tent, we've got what you need.
All TentBox models come with a fitted mattress, a ladder for access and all of the fixing parts needed to attach it to your roof bars.
If you're looking for a roof top tent that's easy to use and lightweight, the TentBox Lite is the perfect choice. The soft shell model means it has a PVC travel cover. It weighs just 50 kilograms meaning it works well with even the smallest of cars.
The TentBox Lite has a manual opening system. Once you’ve got the hang of it, it takes around 5 minutes to set up and 5 minutes to pack away. With TentBox Lite you have to remove your bedding and pillows before packing it down as there is no additional space inside for anything other than the mattress. So bear this in mind as you need to save space for you bedding inside your car.
The Classic and Cargo, on the other hand, are hard shell models with more durable shells and insulation. They are a little heavier, at 64 and 74 kilograms respectively, but they will still fit on most vehicles. The Cargo in particular is made of aluminum, which makes it ideal for anybody who likes to go off road because it can withstand any branches or trees that might get in your way! The gas assisted opening mechanisms help the TentBox Classic and Cargo pop open in a matter of seconds - no more struggling with those flimsy poles! This makes setting up and packing away a complete breeze.
One of the key benefits of the Classic and Cargo is that they have additional internal space for storage when they are closed. This means that when you're driving around in your car, your pillows and sleeping bags will stay safely tucked away inside the tent until it's time for bed.
All three models have exceptional, elevated views out of the windows. The TentBox Lite, however, has a unique feature of a skylight; it gives you extra light in your tent so that you can enjoy your outdoor experience even when it's dark outside.
Roof top tents are getting more popular these days as more and more people are discovering their usefulness. Whether you're driving from city to city or going on a vacation, you should consider purchasing one of these for your vehicle.
Each model has their own pros and cons. Hopefully, our post will help you decide which is best for you. If you have any other questions, get in touch with us and we'd be happy to help.
