Car roof tent guide: important questions and answers about camping with a roof tent

Car roof tent – Are you a passionate camper, but don’t want to camp with a simple tent or travel with a caravan or motorhome?
Then a car roof tent is the perfect solution!
You can enjoy absolute comfort, but at the same time have the feeling of complete freedom and closeness to nature!
A roof tent is mounted on the roof of your vehicle and offers you comfortable space for several people when opened up.
There are many different roof tent models that are quick and easy to set up, offer excellent value for money and allow you to enjoy a flexible camping vacation!
Are you convinced and want to buy your own roof tent?
Then all the important questions about car roof tents are answered here.
Otherwise, visit the store directly: Rooftop tents.

Definition: What is a car roof tent?

A car roof tent is a portable tent that is mounted on the roof of a car.
It allows you to camp comfortably outdoors and offers protection from the weather and insects.
The roof tent is simply attached to your car and is then ready for you to sleep in after long, eventful days on the road.
All you have to do is unfold the tent with a flick of the wrist and you can climb right in. [sv slug=”dachzelt”]

You have these advantages with a roof tent

Car roof tents offer a comfortable way to camp without having to sleep on the ground or drive a bulky camper van.
They are easy to handle and combine all the advantages you could wish for when camping!
With an integrated mattress and comfortable living space, a rooftop tent guarantees you a comfortable and carefree night so that you can start the day fit and alert the next morning.
Most roof tents are very robust and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about this.
Once folded down again, you don’t need any unnecessary storage space, as the roof tent simply stays on the car while you continue your journey.

A roof tent offers you these advantages:

  • Large sleeping and lying area
  • Can be flexibly mounted on almost any car
  • No unnecessary transportation
  • Does not take up any storage space
  • Simple and quick assembly
  • Robust and waterproof
  • Window with mosquito net

With a roof tent you are flexible, have enormous comfort, freedom, huge space and guaranteed lots of fun!

How mounting on the roof works

A car roof tent is mounted on your car roof using roof racks.
The roof tent usually has at least two rails located at the bottom of the tent.
With the help of these, the tent is then simply pushed onto the roof racks already attached to the car and firmly mounted.
You can find out everything in detail here:

This is how the attachment to the roof works:

  1. Determine the roof load of the vehicle
  2. Fitting suitable roof bars to your car
  3. Coordinate roof load and roof tent
  4. Push the complete roof tent with at least 2 people onto the rails
  5. Fasten the whole thing securely

Don’t worry!
The experts at the point of purchase will help you with the correct installation!

Instructions: Assembling and dismantling the roof tent

The most difficult part is done with the assembly before the trip, during your trip comes the easy part!
Once you arrive at the campsite or during breaks on the road, all you need to do is remove the protective cover, loosen the loops and simply unfold the entire tent with one hand movement.
At the end, all you have to do is check everything and set up and secure the integrated ladder.
A fully equipped, comfortable and huge sleeping area is then ready for you.
Dismantling is just as easy.
Instructions – How to set up your roof tent:

  1. Open the protective cover and detach it from the tent
  2. Fold out the roof tent completely
  3. Secure entrance area
  4. Set up and lock the ladder
  5. Climb up and enjoy the sleeping area

In the following video, you can see how quick and easy it is to set up a roof tent and what you need to bear in mind: https://youtu.be/mgXEmc_5OW8

How big are car roof tents?

The size of car roof tents varies depending on the manufacturer and model.
However, most are designed for 2 to 3 people.
However, there are also models for up to 5 people, so that the whole family can sleep in them.
We recommend the Skycamp or the X-Cover, for example!
Read more about the different models here to find the perfect option for you and your loved ones:

The X-Cover roof tent offers enormous space so that the whole family can sleep here without any problems!

Which car do I need for a roof tent?

Good news: Car roof tents can be mounted on most vehicles that have roof racks!
However, it is important to make sure that the tent is suitable for your vehicle and that the load capacity of the roof racks is sufficient to support the weight of the tent and its occupants.
You can read more about this here:

Roof load: what you should bear in mind

It is important to know the maximum roof load that the vehicle can carry.
If you want to attach a roof tent to your car roof, you should therefore know the weight of your roof tent model and match it to the maximum roof load of your car.
A roof tent weighs between 50 and 70 kg, which means that the roof load should be at least this high.
Would you like to find out more about the roof load of a roof tent?
Then read on here:

Can I attach a roof tent to any car?

Even though a roof tent can be attached to almost any car, not all cars are suitable for the use of a roof tent.
It is important that roof racks can be mounted on your vehicle and that your car can carry the weight of the tent and its occupants.
Whether you have a Mini, Opel, Audi or even a Porsche – as long as your car has roof racks, nothing stands in the way of your vacation with a roof tent!

How much does a car roof tent cost?

The price of a car roof tent varies depending on size, materials and equipment and is between 800.00 and 4,000 euros.
However, a mattress, ladder and mosquito net are usually included.
Costs for additional interior fittings, a mattress base and, if necessary, an extension tent can be added if required.
At first glance, this sounds like a lot of money, but the investment is well worth it, as you only have to pay once and can then use the roof tent for several years without any problems.
What’s more, you always have your home on wheels with you and save on accommodation costs on the road.
You will incur these costs with a roof tent:

  • 800.00 Euro for smaller roof tents
  • 1,000 – 4,000 euros for fully equipped roof tents

Where can you stand with a roof tent?

You can park your car and roof tent at any campsite and spend the night there.
It is also generally permitted in Europe to park your roof tent in public parking spaces and parking lots, so you can take a break at any time while on the road.
Hard-shell roof tents in particular are designed in such a way that they do not protrude beyond the prescribed dimensions and are therefore permitted everywhere.
Please note, however, that wild camping is generally prohibited in Germany!
You can park your car with a roof tent here without any problems:

  • At any campsite
  • On public parking spaces / parking lots
  • Note that wild camping is prohibited

Always check in advance whether you are allowed to park and stay overnight at the respective location! Skycamp 3.0 roof tent on a white station wagon at a campsite

How durable are car roof tents?

The longevity of car roof tents depends on the quality of the materials and workmanship.
High-quality tents can last for several years if they are properly maintained, well looked after and stored correctly when not in use.

Cleaning and care of roof tents

Car roof tents should be cleaned and maintained regularly to prolong their service life.
Cleaning should be done with a mild detergent and a soft sponge.
It is also important to dry the tent thoroughly after each use to prevent mold growth.
Get more helpful tips here:

You should bear this in mind when cleaning and caring for them:

  • Use a mild detergent
  • Use a soft sponge
  • Always allow the roof tent to dry completely

What is the best way to ventilate my roof tent?

Ventilation is an important factor for comfort in a roof tent, especially in warm weather conditions.
It is important to ensure that the tent is adequately ventilated to avoid moisture and condensation.
Most car roof top tents have vents and windows that can be opened and closed to increase air circulation inside.
It is helpful to choose a tent with a mosquito net to keep insects out while allowing sufficient air exchange.
In the event that moisture has already formed in the roof tent, you can find out what you can do here:

Always remember to open and ventilate the windows of your roof tent regularly!

How do I protect my car roof tent from theft?

Even if car roof tents are normally well secured, it is important to protect them from theft.
Always park in a guarded parking lot and do not leave any valuables in the tent when you are on the road.
Ideally, you can also buy an anti-theft device for the roof racks.
Since every car model must be equipped with roof racks if a roof tent is to be used, the anti-theft device works without any problems with all roof tents.
Read more about the Roof tent anti-theft device or buy protection for your roof tent directly here:

Can I always leave my roof tent outside?

It is generally recommended to store the car roof tent in a sheltered and dry environment when not in use to protect it from the weather and prolong its life.
However, if you want to leave the roof tent outside all year round, it is advisable to use a protective cover or cover to protect the tent from direct sunlight, rain and snow.
Find out more here about how to store your roof tent correctly, for example in winter:

What do I need to bear in mind when using a roof tent?

When camping in a rooftop tent, you should make sure that you have assembled the tent properly and that it is stable and secure.
You should also always park your car on a level surface before pitching the roof tent and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone in the tent.
Especially when camping with children, you should never leave them unattended in the roof tent and teach them how to use it responsibly!
This is what you should bear in mind when using a roof tent:

  • Proper assembly
  • Parking the car on level ground
  • Check correct fastening regularly
  • Take the necessary precautions
  • Always supervise children

Rooftop tent vacation with children – Helpful tips

Are you taking the whole family, including children, on a camping vacation with a roof tent?
Camping is a great way to spend time with the family and enjoy nature to the full.
With a roof tent, you have the opportunity to travel flexibly and independently and have a comfortable place to sleep at all times without much effort.
However, when children are involved, it is important that you take certain precautions and preparations to ensure that all family members have a carefree and memorable time.
Here are 7 things to keep in mind with kids:

Safety comes first – so always supervise your children when climbing up into the roof tent!

Rooftop tent types – hard shell, fabric or hybrid?

As camping is becoming increasingly popular, the number of different roof tent manufacturers and roof tent models is also growing.
All variants differ in terms of size, equipment, handling and, above all, material.
So which one is right for you?
Whether hard shell, fabric or hybrid – each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
There is no general answer as to which roof tent is best, as it depends on individual requirements and preferences.
It is therefore important that you compare the different options before you buy and before your trip and then choose the roof tent that best suits your needs.
Take into account your planned use, whether you are traveling in summer, autumn or winter, the weight and size of the roof tent, as well as your budget.
Read all about the different models here to make your decision easier:

What is the best car roof tent?

There are many different types of car roof tents on the market and the best roof tent will depend on your individual needs and requirements.
However, there are some reputable manufacturers such as iKamper and CAMPWERK that are known for their high quality and durable products.
It’s important to read ratings and reviews and compare the tent in terms of size, material, ventilation and comfort to find the best rooftop tent for you and your needs.
Read more here:

You can also browse the store for a suitable model, which you can then configure yourself according to your wishes and ideas:

Rooftop tent accessories – What else do I need?

What could be nicer than coming back to the campsite in the evening after a long, eventful day and sitting down comfortably in front of the roof tent with some camping furniture to relax with your loved ones? [sv slug=”mobel”] In the best case scenario, an awning provides the necessary protection from the wind and also serves as a screen for more privacy.
This is a wonderful way to end the day and enjoy the starry sky above you while having a nice chat.
So it definitely makes sense to take outdoor accessories with you on vacation.
Read more about practical roof tent accessories for camping.
Otherwise, you can go directly to the store here to browse through the category for camping and roof tent accessories:

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