Tailgate Tents for Cars & SUVs — Best Options UK 2026

Tailgate Tents for Cars & SUVs — Best UK Options 2026

Looking for a tailgate tent for your car in the UK? You're not alone — searches for tailgate tents have grown nearly 25x in the last 90 days. Below we explain what tailgate tents are, who they're for, and round up the best models you can actually buy today.

What is a Tailgate Tent?

A tailgate tent (or tailgate awning) is a tent or awning that attaches directly to the open boot of a car, SUV, MPV or campervan. It turns the boot into a sheltered "room" — perfect for weekend trips, festivals, dog walks, or full holidays without committing to a traditional driveaway awning.

Three big advantages:

• No campervan needed — fits regular cars and SUVs

• Sets up in minutes — usually inflatable or pop-up

• Lower price than a full driveaway awning

1. Kampa Tailgater Driveaway Awning 2024

The Kampa Tailgater is the original — built specifically as a tailgate tent for SUVs and large hatchbacks. Solid build, easy pitch, and a sensible price for the size.

• Driveaway functionality — detach from vehicle and leave pitched

• Pole structure with steel uprights

• Side door access

• Suits most SUVs and MPVs

Best for: Family weekend campers using a 4x4 or large hatchback.

[Shop Kampa Tailgater Driveaway Awning] → see here

2. Kampa Cross AIR T/G Tailgate Inflatable Awning

The Kampa Cross AIR T/G is the next-gen inflatable tailgate awning — no poles, just inflate the AirFrame beams and you're done in under 5 minutes.

• Inflatable AirFrame — no poles

• Driveaway design

• Quick-pitch (sub 5 minutes)

• Suits campervans and large SUVs

Best for: Weekenders who value fast pitch and pack-down.

[Shop Kampa Cross AIR T/G] → see here

3. Maypole Compact Air Driveaway Awning for VW Campervans

The Maypole Compact Air is a strong-value inflatable awning aimed at VW campervans (T4, T5, T6, T6.1) but compatible with many SUVs too. Great option if you want the inflatable convenience at a friendly price.

• AirPole inflatable structure

• VW-friendly height (180-210cm)

• Compact pack size

• Excellent stock and pricing

[Shop Maypole Compact Air Driveaway Awning] → see here

Maypole Warwick Driveaway Air Awning Low

If you've got slightly more room, the Maypole Warwick low-height (180-210cm) is a more spacious tailgate awning with a proper living-area feel.

[Shop Maypole Warwick Driveaway Air Awning] → see here

How to Pick the Right Tailgate Tent

• Measure your vehicle height — most tailgate tents are 180-210cm; check your roof line.

• Pole or inflatable? Inflatable pitches faster but costs more. Pole is cheaper, slightly slower.

• Driveaway? If you want to leave camp by car, get a driveaway version.

• How many people sleep? Some tailgate tents have inner bedrooms, others are awning-only.

• Don't forget pegs and storm straps for UK weather.

Shop the Full Range

Browse all our Driveaway Awnings, the Low-Height (180-210cm) range, plus storm straps and carpets.

Final Thoughts

If you drive a regular car, SUV or MPV and want the campervan-life feel without buying a campervan, a tailgate tent is the smartest middle ground. The Kampa Tailgater is the easiest entry point; the Kampa Cross AIR T/G for fast pitch; the Maypole Compact Air if you're keeping costs sensible.

Want help matching one to your specific car? Drop us a message and we'll check the fit for you.