Do you want to experience an Adventure in nature, but an RV is too expensive and a traditional tent is too cumbersome? Then a car roof tent is just right for you! It is mounted directly on your car roof and offers you a stable sleeping place that is quick to setup and securely fastened – ideal for any camping Adventure.
With a car roof tent, you can experience the freedom of nature without being dependent on the limitations of a fixed camp. Whether you’re traveling with a small car, an SUV, or a van – a roof tent fits on almost any car roof and offers enough space for you, your partner, friends, or the whole family.
In this article, we show you how to choose the perfect roof tent for your vehicle. We explain the differences between softshell roof tents and hardshell roof tents and what you should pay attention to regarding the roof load. Additionally, we present various roof tent models from CAMPWERK and show you which cars are best suited for using a roof tent.
Camping Guide
Overview: Car Roof Tents – What You Need to Know
A car roof tent offers the comfort of a stable sleeping place directly on the car roof – ideal for camping and Adventures. It fits on almost any vehicle, from small cars to SUVs.
- Suitable car brands include: Audi, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Jeep, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Suzuki, Toyota, VW.
- Hardshell roof tents are quicker to setup and offer better weather protection.
- Softshell roof tents offer more space and are more affordable, but less weather-resistant.
- Pay attention to your vehicle’s roof load and choose a suitable roof tent depending on the number of people and space requirements.
In this article, you will learn which roof tent suits your vehicle and what you need to consider when choosing.
Hardshell or Softshell Roof Tent? – Differences Compared
Car roof tents are divided into 2 main types: hardshell roof tents and softshell roof tents. The choice of the right roof tent depends on various factors: for example, the vehicle type, the available space, and the weather conditions. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages and are suitable for different camping experiences.
To make your decision easier, we have summarized the most important differences in a table.
| Criterion | Softshell Roof Tent | Hardshell roof tent |
| Assembly time | Slightly longer (approx. 5–10 minutes) | Very fast (usually under 1 minute) |
| Comfort | Ideal for mild to warm weather – additional protection is recommended in cold weather | Higher comfort, especially in bad weather |
| Space | More space, especially with larger models | More compact, offers less space |
| Weather resistance | Perfect for warm, dry days | Very stable in wind, rain, and cold |
| Roof load | Lighter, lower roof load required | Heavier, higher roof load required |
| Transport of Equipment | Offers more space for accessories like awning and ladder | Less space for additional equipment |
| Price | More affordable in comparison for the same amount of space | Costs a bit more, but this is reflected in the quality |
| Mounting on Vehicle | Ideal for small cars, passenger cars, and smaller vehicles | Ideal for SUVs, off-road vehicles, or larger cars |
Which Roof Tent Suits You and your Vehicle Better?
- Hardshell roof tents are particularly suitable for SUVs, off-road vehicles, or larger vehicles that can carry a higher roof load. They offer better comfort and are quicker to setup – ideal for Adventures in any weather.
- Softshell roof tents offer more space and are more affordable, but are better suited for lighter vehicles such as small cars or passenger cars. If you want to transport a lot of accessories, a softshell tent might be the better choice.
The choice of the right roof tent ultimately depends on how often you camp, under what weather conditions, and how much space you need. Both options offer you the freedom to seek Adventure and experience nature up close – whether you choose a hardshell or softshell roof tent for 2 people or a 4-person roof tent.
How to Correctly Consider the Roof Load
The roof load is crucial when using a car roof tent. Every vehicle has a maximum roof load, which must not be exceeded to ensure the car’s stability. Excessive weight can impair driving behavior and cause damage to the roof or chassis.
Here’s how to Proceed Correctly:
1️⃣ Check the roof load: It is specified in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
2️⃣ Choose the right model: Make sure that the roof tent, including accessories like mattress and ladder, does not exceed the permissible roof load.
3️⃣Optimize the roof load: Remove unnecessary accessories or choose a lighter roof tent to reduce the total weight.
💡Tip: Choose a roof rack that matches your vehicle’s brand and roof load to ensure safety.
Differences between Carrier Systems:
- Standard carriers: Ideal for lightweight softshell tents or smaller models.
- Rain gutter mounting: Offers more stability and is suitable for heavier roof tents
The Best Car Roof Tents – our Recommendations
There are different types of roof tents, which vary depending on space requirements, travel conditions, and vehicle type.
The good news: A roof tent fits almost any car model. All you need is a sturdy crossbar to securely mount the roof tent.
Below, we take a look at the various roof tent models from CAMPWERK, which are suitable for different cars and camping trips:
Adventure: 2–3 Person Roof Tent
The Adventure roof tent from Campwerk is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a practical car roof tent. It offers enough space for 2–3 people and can be setup on the car roof in a few seconds. The hardshell roof tent is ideal for Adventures and guarantees a great view through the panoramic windows.
The tent comes with a mattress, so you can sleep directly in it. Thanks to the ladder, which can be easily stowed away after use, access is hassle-free. Whether in a small car, passenger car, or van, the Adventure roof tent fits almost any car, as long as you have a sturdy roof rack.
👉🏻 More about the Adventure Roof Tent
Facts:
- 2–3 people
- approx. 1 min. Assembly time
- two widths 140 / 165 cm
- up to 240 × 160 cm sleeping area
- 140 × 120 cm packing size
- approx. 60 kg Featherweight
Skycamp: 1–4 Person Roof Tent
The iKamper Skycamp roof tent is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to spontaneously experience nature with their car – whether for a weekend in a small car or a bigger Adventure with an off-road vehicle. The roof tent offers enough space for up to 4 people, making it perfect for families or groups traveling together.
Thanks to its quick setup, the Skycamp saves valuable time, allowing you to immediately enjoy the comfort and freedom of a car roof tent. With a sleeping area of 197 × 203 cm, it offers enough space even for longer trips. The sturdy aluminum hardshell protects you from bad weather and ensures a comfortable overnight stay.
Perfect for every Adventure – from camping in remote campsites to unforgettable trips into nature.
👉🏻 More about the Skycamp Roof Tent
Facts:
- 1–4 people
- approx. 1 min. Assembly time
- 197 × 203 cm sleeping area
- 410 kg load capacity
- approx. 74 kg Featherweight
- 217 × 139 cm packing size
Skycamp Mini: 1–2 Person Roof Tent
The Skycamp Mini is the compact roof tent for 2 people and the smaller version of the popular Skycamp model. It offers the same quick setup in just one minute as the larger Skycamp, but has a shorter hardshell. This roof tent is ideal for small cars, passenger cars, or pickup cabins if you want to save space on the car roof for additional camping accessories like an awning or ladder.
Whether you’re traveling alone or as a couple, the Skycamp Mini offers everything you need for your Adventure: Quick setup, high comfort levels, and a sturdy hardshell, which offers protection from ground moisture and bad weather. The dimensions are perfect for smaller vehicles, allowing you to securely mount the roof tent even with limited space.
👉🏻 More about the Skycamp Mini Roof Tent
Facts:
- 1–2 people
- 130 × 210 cm sleeping area
- Approx. 1 min setup time
- 410 kg load capacity
- 217 × 139 cm packing size
- approx. 57 kg Featherweight
X-Cover: 4 People & Additional Sports Equipment
The X-Cover is a hardshell roof tent for 4 people and offers more than just sleeping space. It is the first car roof tent that can additionally transport sports equipment such as bicycles, surfboards, or suitcases securely. With the iKamper X-Cover, you get a multi-talent that offers you maximum comfort on your Adventures.
This roof tent is ideal for family or group trips and can be mounted on your car roof in no time. It offers plenty of space and protects your tent from ground moisture and bad weather. Thanks to the robust aluminum hardshell, it is perfectly suited for any Adventure.
👉🏻 More about the X-Cover Roof Tent
Facts:
- 1–4 people
- 230 × 190 cm sleeping area
- Approx. 3 min setup time
- 410 kg load capacity
- 195 × 120 cm packing size
- 55 kg Lightweight
Car Brands and Roof Tents: which Roof Tent Suits your Car?
A roof tent can be mounted on almost any car roof – provided your vehicle has a sturdy roof rack. Whether you’re traveling with a small car, passenger car, or an off-road vehicle like a Land Rover or Jeep – there’s a suitable roof tent for almost every car.
Here we present some car models that are particularly well-suited for roof tent camping:
Audi – A6, Q7, SUVs
Audi offers not only sports cars but also powerful SUVs and off-road models, which are excellently suited for camping with a roof tent. Particularly suitable are the A6 Avant and the Q7, which offer enough roof load to securely transport a hardshell roof tent.
Learn more here:
Ford – Ranger, Kuga, Focus, Fiesta
Ford models like the Ranger or the Kuga offer space for a roof tent and have the necessary roof load for longer camping trips. Whether small car or SUV, with a roof rack, you can securely mount your car roof tent on any Ford.
We present the most popular Ford models and those that are particularly well-suited for off-road use, and show you which roof tents are suitable for your Ford:
BMW – X5, iX, X1
BMW is known for sporty vehicles, but also offers off-road vehicles like the X5 and X1, which are ideal for an Adventure with a roof tent. With a roof rack, any roof tent can be securely mounted, whether you choose the Skycamp for 2-3 people or a 4-person roof tent.
Which models are particularly well-suited for off-road use or are popular among BMW customers, you can find out here:
Hyundai – Tucson, Santa Fe, Kona
Hyundai offers with the Tucson, Santa Fe, and the Kona robust SUVs, which are ideal for roof tents. These vehicles offer enough space and the necessary stability for the secure transport of a roof tent, whether it’s an aluminum hardshell model or a lighter variant.
Which other popular models Hyundai offers and what a trip with a roof tent and a Hyundai can look like, we’ll tell you here:
Jeep – Wrangler, Compass, Renegade
Jeep is the epitome of off-road vehicles. Since 1941, Jeep’s off-road vehicles can take you almost anywhere. Into the jungle, the desert, or on country roads. Models like the Wrangler or the Cherokee offer ample space and roof load to securely mount a roof tent. These vehicles are perfect for adventurous camping trips and offer freedom and comfort.
Read more here:
Land Rover – Discovery, Defender, Range Rover
In April 1948, the first Land Rover was presented at the Amsterdam Motor Show. Since then, no other brand has so clearly stood for Off-road Action like Land Rover. Land Rover offers off-road vehicles like the Defender and Range Rover, which are ideal for any roof tent. These robust vehicles not only offer sufficient roof load but also the comfort you need on your journeys through rough terrain.
Here you can find out everything about the models:
Mercedes-Benz – G-Class, GLA, GLB, EQC
Mercedes stands not only for luxury sedans but also for Off-road Action! The Mercedes G-Class offers a mix of off-road and lounge feeling and is perfectly suited for roof tents. The entire GL series is suitable for rougher terrain. The GLA and GLB also offer enough roof load for a tent and a comfortable journey.
More information can be found here:
Mitsubishi – Outlander, Pajero
Mitsubishi offers with the Outlander and the Pajero robust off-road vehicles, which are perfect for roof tents. These vehicles offer enough space and a high roof load to securely transport even heavy roof tents.
Which models are best suited for camping with a car and roof tent and what else Mitsubishi has in store, you can find out here:
Nissan – Navara, Pathfinder, Micra, X-Trail
Nissan’s off-road models like the Navara and the Pathfinder offer enough roof load and are robust enough for use with a roof tent. But the Micra and X-Trail also offer the necessary stability to mount roof tents.
Find out here which Nissan models are best suited for traveling with a roof tent and what else you should consider on such a trip:
Toyota – Land Cruiser, Hilux, RAV4
The Land Cruiser and Hilux from Toyota are perfect roof tent partners for camping adventures. These off-road models offer sufficient roof load and comfort for your trips.
Learn more here:
Peugeot – Rifter, Partner, 280, 380
A trip with a roof tent and Peugeot – not possible? Oh yes, see for yourself, a roof tent fits on almost any car roof. With models like the Rifter and the Partner, Peugeot offers enough space to safely mount a roof tent. These small cars and SUVs are a good choice for spontaneous camping trips.
Find out here which Peugeot models are perfect for a roof tent or the alternative of a tent trailer:
Opel – Astra, Crossland, Corsa, Grandland X
Opel models such as the Astra or the Grandland X are also ideal for roof tents. With a roof rack, any roof tent can be safely mounted, so that short adventures in a camper van or roof tent are possible.
Which models does Opel offer specifically for off-road trips, and which are the German car manufacturer’s best-selling models? You can find out all this and much more here:
VW – Touareg, Golf, Amarok, Tiguan
VW models such as the Touareg and the Golf offer enough space and roof load for your roof tent. The Amarok and the Tiguan also offer comfort and freedom to make your trip relaxed.
Find out here which models are particularly suitable for camping with a car, which off-road versions VW has on offer and much more about roof tents for VW:
👉🏻 VW roof tent
Suzuki – Swift, Jimny, Vitara
Does Suzuki stand for small cars and city speedsters? Not at all! In addition to the (Grand) Vitara and the new compact SUV Jimny, the Japanese car manufacturer has other models in store that can handle off-road terrain well.
And even for smaller cars, traveling with a roof tent is possible with the right substructure. Find out which are the most popular Suzuki models and off-road cars, and how you too can travel and camp comfortably with your Suzuki in the future:
Conclusion: why Roof Tents for Cars are the Perfect Choice
A car roof tent is ideal if you want the comfort of a fixed sleeping place without an expensive camper van. Here are the reasons why a roof tent is a good choice for your adventure:
✅ Quick setup: A roof tent can be mounted on your car roof in just a few minutes, without wasting a lot of time setting up a conventional tent.
✅ Weather resistance: Hard shell roof tents offer better protection from wind and rain. They are more stable and insulate better than conventional fabric tents.
✅ Space and comfort: Depending on the model, roof tents for 2–4 people offer enough space for longer trips or spontaneous camping trips.
✅ Versatility: Whether small car, SUV or bus – almost any vehicle can carry a roof tent if the appropriate roof rack is mounted.
✅ Independence: With a roof tent, you are independent of campsites and can spend the night anywhere – from remote natural spots to popular travel destinations.
A roof tent is a cost-effective alternative to a camper van and allows you to experience nature directly. Whether alone, with friends or family – a car roof tent offers you comfort and enough space for any adventure. It is the ideal choice for camping independently and spontaneously.
Check out the best models in our roof tent shop now and find the perfect roof tent for your car at CAMPWERK!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Car Roof Tents
1. What is a car roof tent?
A car roof tent is mounted directly on the car roof and offers you a stable sleeping place for adventures and camping. It is a cost-effective alternative to a camper van and can be set up quickly without sacrificing comfort.
2. Which roof tent fits my vehicle?
The choice of the right roof tent depends on your vehicle. Small cars, cars, SUVs or buses can almost all carry a roof tent, as long as you choose the right roof rack. Pay attention to the roof load of your vehicle to safely transport the weight of the roof tent and accessories.
3. What is the difference between a hard shell roof tent and a fabric roof tent?
Hard shell roof tents offer better weather protection, are more stable and quicker to set up, while fabric roof tents offer more space and are cheaper. Hard-shell roof tents are particularly suitable for larger vehicles and more demanding weather conditions, while fabric tents are ideal for mild weather and smaller vehicles.
4. How do I choose the right roof rack for my roof tent?
Make sure that the roof rack supports the roof load of your vehicle and is compatible with the roof tent. A more robust rack is required for heavier hard shell roof tents, while a simpler rack system is sufficient for lighter fabric tents.
5. How much space does a roof tent offer?
Roof tents are available in various sizes – from tents for 2 people to roof tents for 4 people. Depending on the model and space requirements, you can choose a roof tent that offers sufficient lying space and is ideal for your trips or camping adventures. At CAMPWERK you will find a large selection of roof tents in different sizes.
6. Can I also camp with a roof tent on small vehicles such as a small car?
Yes, many roof tents are suitable for small cars. Fabric roof tents often offer more space here and are ideal for 2 people or small groups. Make sure that the roof rack fits your vehicle and that the tent can be safely mounted.
7. How safe is the roof tent while driving?
A well-mounted roof rack ensures that your roof tent stays safely on the car roof. Check the connections regularly to ensure that the tent is stable and securely fastened, especially with larger hard shell roof tents or a car roof tent for several people.
8. How much does a car roof tent cost?
The price of a roof tent varies depending on the model, brand and functionality. Hard shell roof tents tend to be more expensive than fabric roof tents, but offer better comfort and weather resistance. You can choose a suitable roof tent depending on your budget and space. Just have a look in our roof tent shop.
9. How quickly can a roof tent be set up?
A hard shell roof tent can usually be set up in under a minute, while fabric tents take a little longer – about 5 to 10 minutes. Both variants offer quick setup, so you can quickly start your adventure.
10. Which car brands are particularly suitable for roof tents?
Many car brands are well suited to mount a roof tent, including Audi, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Jeep, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Suzuki, Toyota and VW. Make sure that your vehicle has a stable roof rack that can safely carry the weight of the roof tent.
