Rooftop tent types: Who can do what? Advantages & disadvantages of fabric, hard shell and hybrid

Rooftop tent types – Would you like to buy a rooftop tent, but don’t know exactly which one to choose?
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?
Here you will find a list of some roof tent types along with their features and benefits to make your decision easier.
Otherwise, take a look at the different types directly in the store: Rooftop tents.

Camping Ratgeber:

Which type of roof tent is best for me?

There are different types of roof tents, but they all have one thing in common: regardless of their size, they fit on every car – whether Audi, BMW, Mercedes or VW! Apart from that, 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 various 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. [sv slug=”dachzelt”]

You should take this into account when making your choice:

Planned use
Length and type of your trip
Season during the trip
Weight and size of the roof tent
Your budget

No matter which type of roof tent you choose – every model offers you a carefree and eventful time in the great outdoors! You can choose from the following roof tent types:

Hard shell roof tent: Robust and weatherproof

Unlike some other models, a hard shell roof tent is made of hard plastic.
The roof is therefore very robust, stable and weatherproof.
This means you can camp outdoors in any weather conditions without any worries.
Thanks to the hard shell, the roof tent is very durable and will give you pleasure for several camping vacations.
Read more about this variant here:

Roof tent Hard shell

That’s what makes a hard shell roof tent:

Made from hard plastic
Robust and weatherproof
Sturdy hard shell roof

Advantages and disadvantages of hard shell

Roof tents made of hard plastic are able to withstand weather conditions that would normally cause the tent to be damaged or even break through.
They are particularly suitable for use in remote areas.
You are protected from wind and storms as well as falling branches and pine cones.
Their resistance to knocks and impacts is just as impressive.
Hard shells are also easier to clean and maintain, which only increases the longevity of your roof tent.
However, they are generally heavier and more expensive than other types of roof tents.

This is what makes hard shell roof tents so convincing:

Very robust, stable and durable
Withstand all weather conditions
Tent is protected from falling branches
Easy assembly and disassembly
Low driving noise and air resistance

These are the disadvantages of hard-shell roof tents:

Heavier than other species
Slightly more expensive to purchase
More difficult to assemble and disassemble

A hard shell roof tent offers optimum protection from wind, rain and storms both when folded up and when erected!

Fabric roof tent: Breathable and lightweight

Fabric roof tents are lighter and cheaper than hard-shell roof tents and generally offer better ventilation.
However, they are less robust and therefore offer less protection from the elements and, for example, falling branches during storms and thunderstorms.
These tents have a fabric roof, usually made of polyester or cotton, and an aluminum or steel frame.
This makes the entire tent very stable but also breathable, which is particularly advantageous when camping in summer.
Are you convinced?
Then you will find a recommended fabric roof tent model here:

Fabric roof tents offer these advantages:

Very light and easy to install
Less expensive to purchase
Good ventilation
Breathable polyester or cotton fabric
Sturdy aluminum or steel frame

These are the disadvantages of fabric roof tents:

Not too robust
Less protection from the weather

Fabric roof tents are easy to assemble, inexpensive and offer a comfortable sleeping space inside the tent!

Hybrid roof tent: advantages of both variants

A hybrid roof tent works just like any other roof tent.
This means it is easy to set up and take down and offers you an amazing living space with room for up to 5 people at any time – perfect for a vacation with the whole family!
What’s more, it combines the advantages of soft-cover folding tents and hard-shell roof tents: A large, wide-opening sleeping area with a small pack size, low driving noise and air resistance thanks to the hard shell, quick assembly and disassembly and the best weather protection thanks to the insulating and stable hard shell.
You also have an optimum combination of robustness and ventilation, making it the perfect all-rounder for every season!
If you are convinced, you will find a popular model here: