Storing roof tents: tips for correct storage in winter

Storing rooftop tents – Even in winter, a camping vacation in a rooftop tent can be wonderful.
However, if this is too cold for you and you decide to store your roof tent, we have some important tips for you on how to store it correctly.
This way, your roof tent will survive storage undamaged and be ready for use again in spring.

Store your roof tent: In the garage or cellar – the right way to do it

It’s gray, it’s wet and, above all, it’s cold and uncomfortable.
In winter, the roof tent often remains unused.
So take it off the car roof and put it in storage.
But to ensure that your roof tent is ready for use again as soon as the first warm days arrive next spring, you should choose the right storage location.
Because mildew stains, musty smells or, in the worst case, mold can be avoided with a few simple tricks.
First things first: Before your roof tent can be stored, it should be cleaned and aired.
Because only a dry and clean roof tent will survive storage undamaged.
Regardless of whether you decide to store it in the garage, cellar or attic: It is important that the storage location is as dry and protected as possible.
Once you have found the right place, continue with these three tips for roof tent storage.

Roof tent storage upright on the wall – Tip 1

The easiest and cheapest way to store your roof tent is upright against the garage wall.
The hinge side should be facing downwards.
To prevent the hinges from being damaged, you can place a pool noodle underneath as protection.
You should also stretch the cover that came with the tent over your roof tent to protect it from dust.
If you no longer have the protective cover, you can buy a new one or place a large blanket over the tent.
Leaning the roof tent up against the wall is a good storage option if you have limited space in your garage and don’t want to incur higher storage costs.
This is how you proceed with this variant:

1. Cut the pool noodle into several small sections.
   Now place these on the ground at equal intervals across the bottom edge of the roof tent so that you can place the tent on them and lean it against the wall.
   To be able to set the roof tent down safely, it is best to lift the roof tent with two people.
2. Next, cover the roof tent with the protective cover or blanket.
   If you use a blanket and want to be absolutely sure that the tent is well protected, wrap the blanket additionally with adhesive tape.

Storing the roof tent flat on the ground – tip 2

If you have enough space in your garage, you can also simply store your roof tent flat on the floor.
You can also place the roof tent on some larger pieces of pool noodle.
Storage on a pallet also works well.
The underside should be facing downwards – how could it be otherwise?
It is important that the roof tent does not lie directly on the ground.
This ensures sufficient ventilation and prevents moisture from collecting.
And even if it is very tempting, you should not place anything heavy on top of the roof tent.
Although the roof tent is very robust and can withstand a lot, you should not risk any damage unnecessarily.
You should pay attention to this with this variant:

1. Place your pool noodles in the same place in your garage where you want your roof tent to be later.
2. Together with another person, lift the roof tent off the car roof and lay it flat on the pool noodle pieces.
3. Cover your roof tent with the cover provided or a large blanket.
4. Do not use the roof tent as a storage area.

Hanging the roof tent under the ceiling – Tip 3

Another option for storing your roof tent for a longer period of time is to store it under the garage ceiling.
Storage under the ceiling is somewhat more complex and expensive than the first two options.
However, it is worth the effort:

• You don’t take up any space on the garage floor.
• All the storage space in the garage can be used for other purposes.
• The tent is lifted from the car roof using a cable system and then securely fastened under the ceiling.
  This storage method makes it very easy for you.
  The roof tent is conveniently lifted directly from the vehicle and hung from the ceiling.
• Lifting the roof tent back onto the car roof after the winter is just as easy.

You can find ceiling lifts, roof box lifts and cable hoist systems in DIY stores or online stores, where you can choose between a motorized lift and a manual cable and pulley system.
What you should definitely pay attention to is the maximum load capacity of the lift.
It should definitely exceed the weight of your roof tent and be able to safely carry the entire tent.
If you want to be on the safe side, you can also build a wooden substructure on which the roof tent can be placed.
Stored in this way, mildew or mold hardly stand a chance and nothing stands in the way of your next spontaneous camping trip: as soon as the roof tent is safely and securely mounted on your car, you can set off on your journey.
Once you arrive at the campsite, all you have to do is quickly unfold it and your home on the car roof will provide you with a cozy place to sleep next summer.
Or would you like to try winter camping in Germany, for example?
Glistening snow, freezing cold, fabulous peace and quiet …