Rooftop tent: How safe am I in thunderstorms and storms?

Rooftop tent – A camping vacation in bad weather is always somewhat uncertain and associated with restrictions.
Nevertheless, this shouldn’t stop you from going camping with your loved ones.
Although a rooftop tent is not as stable as a camper and can be damaged more easily in storms, it still has many advantages and is a suitable choice for camping trips.
However, there are a few things you should bear in mind in order to be as well protected and prepared as possible in all weather conditions and to be able to enjoy a carefree time in the great outdoors.
Find out everything you need to know here.

Sleeping in a roof tent during storms and thunderstorms?

A roof tent has a number of advantages that can make it an attractive choice for camping trips, even when a storm is on the way.
These include the fact that roof tents are very wind-resistant as they are attached directly to the car.
The elevated position on the roof is also an advantage.
However, you should not stay in the roof tent itself during a real thunderstorm!
In the event of a lightning strike, you are not protected in the roof tent as it does not provide an electrical conductor with a closed cover, as is the case with a car. This means that if there is a heavy thunderstorm on the way, you should get in the car with your loved ones or, ideally, seek shelter for the night! [sv slug=”dachzelt”] You should be aware of this during storms:

  • You don’t need to worry about storms and rain in the roof tent
  • However, get into your car or seek shelter during thunderstorms

While you are safe in a closed car during a thunderstorm, you should avoid the roof tent for this time!

How to recognize an approaching thunderstorm

To recognize an approaching thunderstorm while camping, you should look out for the following signs:

  • Dark clouds in the sky that move quickly
  • Sudden gusts of wind or strong gusts
  • Thunder and lightning in the background
  • Sudden cooling of the air
  • Rain clouds approaching fast

If you notice one or more of these signs, you should definitely take action and do the following:

  • Find a safe place to hide, for example in your car
  • Leave open areas during excursions and seek shelter
  • Avoid high buildings or tall trees
  • Also stow your equipment and secure it against the wind
  • Stay away from bodies of water, as these are a dangerous place for lightning strikes
  • Wait out the storm before you lie down in your roof tent

If you notice that a thunderstorm is approaching, you should definitely look for safe shelter as soon as possible!

The roof tent is a suitable choice in the rain

Especially on longer camping trips, you can never predict the weather exactly, let alone influence it.
Therefore, especially in fall or winter, bad weather and rain showers can always occur.
However, if it stays that way, you can stay in the roof tent without any worries.
You have the following advantages in a roof tent in bad weather:

Elevated position

A roof tent is mounted on the roof of your vehicle, which means that it is in a higher position than traditional tents on the ground, for example.
This reduces the risk of flooding and increases safety during storms.

Wind-stable and robust

Roof tents are generally more stable against wind than simple tents, as they are attached to the vehicle and therefore offer less surface area for the wind to attack.

Protection from rain & damage

Rooftop tents are also better protected against rain than classic tents, as they have a higher roof and therefore less water can penetrate.
Rooftop tents are also made of a high-quality, waterproof and robust material, which means you hardly notice anything of the storm inside.
Some roof tent models also have a hard shell so that the tent is protected from falling branches and is less likely to be damaged.

Increased ventilation

Roof tents often have large windows and ventilation slits that allow air to circulate better inside, thereby reducing the risk of moisture and mold growth.

More space for outdoor equipment

Roof tents do not take up any storage space inside the vehicle, so this space can be used for luggage and outdoor equipment during storms.
This means, for example, that Camping furniturewhich are otherwise outside on the campsite, dry,

Protection from animals

As the roof tent is raised on the roof of the car, you are also protected from animals, such as bears or snakes, which can be startled by the storm and may therefore be in the vicinity of your tent.
If it rains, you can stay in the roof tent without any problems and use the time to play or plan your trip!

What you should bear in mind in bad weather

It is important to note that, despite its advantages, a roof tent requires special precautions in bad weather to ensure the safety of all passengers.
You should park the car on a level surface and avoid very windy, unprotected places.
Secure it well and check that it is properly attached to the car roof before you start your journey.
Also check your roof tent regularly on the road and, ideally, think of a plan B in case the tent is damaged.
It is also advisable to monitor the weather forecast and always prepare for possible weather conditions.
In severe weather conditions, however, it is best to stay in accommodation that is safer than a roof tent.
It is better to be safe than sorry and avoid the risk of damage or injury rather than sit out the weather.

Conclusion: What to do in the event of storms

  • Park the car on a level surface
  • Avoid windy, unprotected locations
  • Secure the roof tent well and check it regularly
  • Always keep an eye on the weather forecast
  • Find shelter during a severe storm
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