Your first time camping with a roof tent: what to look out for? Tips for a successful start to your vacation

Camping with a roof tent – The longing for freedom, adventure and unforgettable moments in nature has inspired many people to expand traditional camping and scale new heights – in the truest sense of the word.
With a roof tent, you can sleep comfortably on the roof of your car.
Here you have an enormous sleeping space that is available at all times.
However, there are a few things to consider before your first rooftop tent trip, especially if you are new to camping.
From preparing and setting up the rooftop tent to choosing the perfect campsite and practical tips for a comfortable outdoor life – these tips should make it easier for you to get started camping with a rooftop tent.
Are you still looking for a suitable model?
Then take a look here in the store: Rooftop tents.

Try out the set-up in advance

Before you go camping with a roof tent for the first time, it is advisable to practise putting up and taking down the roof tent at home.
Set up the tent on your vehicle and follow the manufacturer’s instructions step by step.
By practicing, you will gain confidence in the set-up process and can clarify any difficulties or questions in advance.
Also pay attention to how the roof tent is attached to your vehicle and check that all fasteners are working properly.
Familiarizing yourself with the handling in advance will make it easier and quicker to set up and take down on the road and make your vacation even more relaxing!

  • Practice putting up and taking down the roof tent in advance
  • This will give you confidence in the construction process
  • Possible difficulties or questions can be clarified in advance
  • Assembly is easier and faster on the move

Drive more carefully with the roof tent

Driving with a roof tent requires a little more caution and attention.
The additional weight and the changed vehicle dynamics can have an impact on your driving behavior.
Reduce your speed and keep a greater distance from other vehicles in order to be able to react to unexpected situations.
Note that crosswinds may affect the vehicle a little more.
Be particularly careful when cornering and be aware of the increased height of your vehicle to avoid collisions with low overhangs.
It can also be helpful to familiarize yourself with the handling of your vehicle with a roof tent beforehand by taking a few test drives.
A defensive and cautious driving style will ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.

  • Driving behavior can change with a roof tent
  • Be prepared for crosswinds and ride more carefully than usual
  • Reduce your speed and keep your distance from other vehicles
  • If necessary, familiarize yourself with the handling of your vehicle with a roof tent

You’re on vacation, so take your time driving and drive carefully from one destination to the next!

Choose the campsite carefully

Choosing the right campsite is crucial for a successful start to the rooftop tent season.
Look for campsites that allow rooftop tents and have enough space to park your vehicle with the rooftop tent.
Also check the availability of sanitary facilities, such as toilets and showers, if you need them.
Also consider the location of the campsite and the surrounding landscape.
Do you want to camp near forests, mountains, lakes or beaches?
Also think about the distance from your home and the travel time.
If you are traveling in popular camping areas, especially during the high season, it is also advisable to make a reservation.
Choosing your campsite carefully will allow you to enjoy a pleasant environment and get the most out of your rooftop tent camping adventure.

  • Find a campsite that allows rooftop tents
  • Make sure there is enough space and sanitary facilities
  • Choose the location of the campsite according to your preferences
  • Reserve your pitch in advance, especially during peak season

Organization and structure: Plan in advance

Good planning is the key to a successful rooftop tent vacation.
Take time to plan your camping trip in advance.
Choose the campsite carefully and check availability, location and facilities.
Find out about the camping rules and regulations to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Also consider the travel time and think about the best time to arrive in order to have enough time to set up the roof tent and make other preparations.
By planning ahead, you can ensure that your camping adventure goes smoothly and you have less stress during your stay.

  • Make sure you have enough time to arrive at the campsite
  • It is advisable to arrive early to avoid stress

Create a comfortable place to sleep

Although the roof tent has a mattress, you can use additional underlays to improve comfort even more.
A mattress pad, for example, is suitable for this, which is simply placed under the mattress to protect it from moisture and for more comfort.
Ideally, you should also pack comfortable pillows and warm blankets to ensure a good night’s sleep.
Adjust the number of blankets to the weather so that you neither freeze nor overheat. Blanket or sleeping bag? Depending on your destination and preferences, you can also take a sleeping bag with you.
There are different types of sleeping bag that are suitable for different temperatures.
For winter camping, for example, a winter sleeping bag is ideal.
Read more about the best equipment for a roof tent here:

This guarantees maximum sleeping comfort:

  • Use an additional carpet pad for more comfort
  • Pack more pillows and blankets
  • Take a sleeping bag that is suitable for the temperatures

Everyone has different preferences and needs when it comes to sleeping.
Take your time to find out which position, mattress firmness or sleeping environment works best for you and make sure you feel comfortable in the roof tent! Interior view of the Skycamp 3.0 roof tent with sleeping bags and fairy lights

Ventilate regularly to reduce humidity

Many roof tents have integrated windows or ventilation openings.
Make sure that these are open as often as possible to allow good air circulation inside the tent.
This helps to reduce moisture and condensation and ventilate the tent comfortably.
However, insects can be a problem when the windows are open!
So when choosing your rooftop tent, make sure it has mosquito netting to keep out unwanted visitors while maintaining ventilation.

  • Make sure there is sufficient ventilation
  • Open all windows to reduce condensation and moisture
  • Make sure that the tent has mosquito nets

Ensure sufficient, cozy lighting

Pack portable LED camping lights to ensure adequate lighting in the roof tent and around the camping area.
Choose lamps with different brightness levels to meet different needs.
Headlamps or flashlights are also practical, for example for going to the toilet at night.
In addition, a light chain can not only provide atmospheric lighting in the roof tent, but can also be practical.
It provides cozy light in the evening so that everyone can find their way safely into the roof tent and no tripping accidents occur.
You can find a recommended light chain in the store here:

  • Make sure that you have sufficient lighting options
  • Take headlamps or flashlights with you, especially at night
  • Attach fairy lights to your roof tent for a cozy atmosphere

Fairy lights create a cozy atmosphere and a little more light in the evening!

Be flexible and remember to hold on to memories

Camping with a rooftop tent for the first time can involve a learning curve.
It’s important to be prepared for the unexpected and remain flexible.
It may take longer than expected to set up the rooftop tent or you may be faced with new challenges.
Accept these challenges as part of the adventure and approach them with a positive attitude.
Be prepared to adapt and find alternative solutions.
Sometimes it’s these unexpected events that lead to the best stories and memories.
Stay open to new experiences and enjoy the moment.
Last but not least: don’t forget to capture memories of your rooftop camping trip!
Take a camera or smartphone with you to take photos or videos of your adventures and the impressive landscapes.

  • Be prepared to adapt and accept possible challenges
  • Over time, you will become more familiar and efficient in handling the roof tent
  • Don’t forget to hold on to memories

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Offroad
Raised and extra stable for road and off-road… What do you do if you are traveling in regions with poor roads or drive an off-road vehicle or SUV whose dome height does not fit conventional trailers? The solution: the off-road tent trailer from CAMPWERK – specially developed for extreme conditions. This unique model impresses with a raised and particularly robust AL-KO chassis that can withstand even the most demanding off-road routes. The entire body is made of lightweight but sturdy aluminum, reinforced with durable stainless steel components. So you are perfectly equipped for any terrain.
Black / Silver
Available now: The CAMPWERK Offroader in the exclusive Black/Silver Edition CAMPWERK is expanding its range and now also offers the popular off-road tent trailer in the coveted Black/Silver Edition. The high-quality aluminium body is completely anodized in matt black, while the mudguards are powder-coated in elegant “Gun Silver Metal”. An absolute eye-catcher on any road and in any terrain!
The off-road trailer from CAMPWERK impresses with its lightweight construction: Thanks to the aluminum body, the base only weighs around 300 kg when empty. With a permissible total weight of 1.5 tons, it offers an impressive payload capacity of up to 1.2 tons – ideal for small excursions, transport and even larger expeditions.

Visually, the trailer blends in perfectly with the appearance of an off-road vehicle or SUV with its coarse-tread MT tires and robust, full-length aluminium mudguards. The mudguards are also designed in such a way that they are ideal for the safe transportation of petrol and water canisters or gas bottles.

To ensure flexibility, the off-roader’s tyres can be individually adapted to the towing vehicle on request, so that only one set of spare wheels is required. The standard ball head coupling can also be optionally replaced with a DIN or NATO eye.
T-drawbar or V-fork ?
Thousands of trailer drivers know the problem of tight spaces only too well: if you drive into a narrow lane and have to turn, it is important to back your car as far as possible against the trailer in order to get around the bend without any problems. With a T-drawbar, you can utilize the maximum steering angle. This is precisely why we at CAMPWERK rely on this tried-and-tested technology – for optimum flexibility and maneuverability, no matter how tight things get.
T-drawbar
V-fork
T-drawbar
V-fork
Chassis
  • Extra strong square T-drawbar 100x100mm for maximum stability and best maneuverability
  • Axle up to 1,500 kg with maintenance-free hexagonal rubber spring axle
  • Optionally with watertight wheel hub
  • 2 crossbars
  • The chassis is exclusively from the renowned manufacturer AL-KO, market leader in the car trailer and caravan sector
  • Safety indicator on the clutch
  • Independent suspension
Aluminum body
  • Our aluminium trailers are equipped with anodized aluminium profiles
  • double-walled anodized aluminium side panels 30mm, 440mm high
  • Large emergency lighting with integrated rear fog light
  • Equipped with balanced tires as standard
  • Base plate stable screen-printed base, non-slip
  • Complete M8 stainless steel screw connection (V2A stainless steel)
  • Electrical system: Supply cable (wiring harness) standard with 13-pin plug
  • Tailgate latches very elaborate, made entirely of stainless steel
Wheels
  • Black powder-coated steel rim
  • 235/85 R16 tires optionally adaptable to towing vehicle
  • Mud Terrain tire tread
  • Special wheel connection for your towing vehicle on request
Terrain values
  • 350 mm ground clearance
  • 570 mm wading depth
  • 27° slope angle
Equipped for every situation thanks to the versatile accessories...

Raised dropside

20L canister

Towbar adapter for bike carrier with coupling connection

2-4 bike racks

Anti-drag clutch

Onroad

The perfect solution for your camping adventure:
Road trailer with tent
Imagine a first-class equipped road trailer that is ideal for camping trips in Germany and the surrounding countries.
This trailer comes with a sturdy holding device for a matching tent that can be set up in no time at all.
The result is your mobile home – ready for unforgettable tours!

Your decisive advantage: you are ideally equipped for your vacation in a particularly cost-effective way. And when you’re not on the road, you can use the trailer as a conventional utility trailer. We offer you the road trailer in two versions, depending on your needs: An unbraked version with a permissible total weight of 750 kg and the braked version recommended by us with a permissible total weight of 1,300 kg.
10-year guarantee
Our trailer base was not created in the laboratory – it was made for the real world. The robust construction is optimized for tough conditions. Oversized axles and virtually indestructible aluminum frames ensure exceptional durability. We are the only supplier in Germany to give you a 10-year guarantee on this unique quality!
T-drawbar or V-fork ?
Thousands of trailer drivers know the problem of tight spaces only too well: if you drive into a narrow lane and have to turn, it is important to back your car as far as possible against the trailer in order to get around the bend without any problems. With a T-drawbar, you can utilize the maximum steering angle. This is precisely why we at CAMPWERK rely on this tried-and-tested technology – for optimum flexibility and maneuverability, no matter how tight things get.
T-drawbar
V-fork
T-drawbar
V-fork
Chassis
  • 2 crossbars
  • Maintenance-free rubber spring axles
  • Independent suspension
  • The chassis is exclusively from the renowned manufacturer AL-KO, market leader in the car trailer and caravan sector
  • Safety indicator on the clutch
Aluminum structure
  • Our aluminium trailers are equipped with anodized aluminium profiles
  • double-walled anodized aluminium side panels 30mm, 440mm high
  • Large emergency lighting with integrated rear fog light
  • Equipped with balanced tires as standard
  • Base plate stable screen-printed base, non-slip
  • Complete M8 stainless steel screw connection (V2A stainless steel)
  • Electrical system: Supply cable (wiring harness) standard with 13-pin plug
  • Tailgate latches very elaborate, made entirely of stainless steel
Equipped for every situation thanks to the versatile accessories...

Raised dropside

20L canister

Towbar adapter for bike carrier with coupling connection

2-4 bike racks

Anti-drag clutch

Material and processing.
The tent fabric of our trailer tents is made from a high-quality, 450 g blended fabric, also known as canvas. This unique combination of cotton and polyester combines the advantages of a natural fiber with those of a modern high-tech material. The result is a robust, breathable fabric that impresses with its pleasant feel and high dimensional stability.

The tent fabric, which is also used by the military, is impregnated and particularly tear-resistant thanks to the ripstop process. In this special weaving technique, thicker threads are woven into the fabric at intervals of around 10-15 millimetres, giving the fabric its characteristic tiled structure and exceptional tear resistance. It goes without saying that our fabrics are opaque and therefore offer optimum protection and privacy.
The basis of our trailer tents is a robust stainless steel frame with a thickness of 3×3 cm. A 1.8 cm thick, water-resistant wooden floor panel is securely fastened to this sturdy frame with stainless steel screws. The frame of the trailer tents is also made of galvanized steel tubing and special stainless steel components that ensure maximum stability. The modern surface finish not only offers a high level of corrosion protection, but also gives the material a pleasant feel and ensures a durable, weatherproof construction.
We rely exclusively on yarn from the German market leader Amann. Thanks to the combination of a cotton core and a high-tenacity polyester core, this yarn is characterized by a particularly high tensile strength and excellent water resistance.

On contact with water, the cotton coating swells and closes the seam holes created during sewing. For additional protection, all seams in the roof area are fitted with a transparent sealing strip to ensure maximum waterproofness.
Less is sometimes more.
We are often asked: What about the water column? For tent fabrics, the impermeability of the fabric is specified in the form of the water column. For cotton tents, this value is usually around 300 to 400 mm. However, our tent fabric offers an exceptionally high water column for cotton fabric of around 750 mm. This means that theoretically more than 75 cm of water can stand on the material before the first drops penetrate.

A major advantage of cotton as a natural raw material is its ability to swell when it gets damp, which provides additional waterproofing. In contrast, synthetic fabrics, which cannot swell, must have a much higher water column (between 3,000 and 10,000 mm, depending on the material) in order to achieve comparable waterproofness.
Good night.
The comfort sleep set consists of a high-quality visco foam mattress that adapts perfectly to the individual body shape, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The set is complemented by the innovative Froli bed spring system, which guarantees an exceptional sleeping experience. Perfect sleeping comfort in a well thought-out overall package.
Premium mattress.
An excellent mattress is the basis for healthy and restful sleep. Just as every person is unique, their mattress should also be individually tailored to them.
Our premium mattress adapts perfectly to the contours of the body and promotes orthopaedically correct positioning of the spine. Thanks to targeted pressure relief, back muscles and intervertebral discs can relax optimally. The innovative construction and high-quality materials create an ideal sleeping environment.
There are no compromises at CAMPWERK: We rely on flexible visco foam with memory function. The unique combination of supportive foam core and relieving visco foam topper ensures maximum sleeping comfort.
  • Visco-elastic mattress.
  • High-quality Tencel® cover (38 % Tencel®, 62 % polyester).
  • Four practical turning loops.
  • Four-sided zipper.
  • Removable, divisible and washable.
  • Four practical turning loops.
Suspension.
Good ventilation is crucial for your well-being and sleep hygiene. To ensure maximum sleeping comfort, we combine our mattress with an innovative Froli slat base. The flexible spring elements form a comfortable slat base with individually adjustable firmness zones. This combination ensures orthopaedically correct positioning of the body and provides targeted, pressure-relieving support. This effectively prevents tension and one-sided strain. The open, air-permeable cells also enable optimum ventilation and create a healthy sleeping environment.
Are you allergic or do you have special health requirements? No problem! We cooperate with a renowned German mattress manufacturer to offer customized solutions. Simply contact us and together we will find the ideal mattress for your needs.