Choosing Thule Roof Tent Mounting & Gear
Roof tents put your bed up off the ground - drier, cleaner, away from insects, and ready in 60 seconds. They mount to your roof bars or a dedicated rack and pop up when you're parked. Sized for couples (130cm wide) up to families of four (180cm+).
Soft-Shell
Fold-out style with a fabric cover - largest sleeping area for the closed size, lower profile when driving, lighter weight.
Hard-Shell
Solid lid that lifts straight up. Faster to deploy (under 30 seconds), more weatherproof, but less interior space than a soft-shell of the same closed size.
Clamshell
Hybrid that lifts at an angle - opens fast like a hard-shell but with a larger sleeping area. Premium price, premium experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a roof tent fit my vehicle?
Most cars and vans can take a roof tent if rated for 75kg+ static roof load. Always check your vehicle's static load rating (often higher than the dynamic rating). 4x4s, vans and estates handle them best.
How long does it take to deploy?
30-60 seconds for hard-shell and clamshell; 2-3 minutes for soft-shell. Packing up is similar - much faster than pitching a ground tent.
Are roof tents secure?
Yes - all use weather-tight closures and most have lockable ladder mounts. The unit is high enough off the ground to deter most opportunists.
Can I leave the tent on the roof full-time?
Yes - hard-shell and clamshell tents are designed for permanent fitting. Soft-shells can stay on but the cover does wear faster than removed-and-stored use.
