Best Rooftop Tents for SUVs

If you love camping, road trips, or spontaneous weekends in the wild, a rooftop tent can completely change your experience. Instead of searching for flat ground, avoiding mud, or dealing with damp sleeping bags, you can sleep above it all — literally. Rooftop tents mount directly to your SUV’s roof rack and turn your vehicle into a comfortable home base. They offer better views, more comfort, and a unique sense of adventure that ground tents just can’t match.

But choosing the right rooftop tent is important. You’ll want something durable enough for wind and rain, comfortable to sleep in, and easy to set up after a long day of driving or hiking. In this guide, we review the 7 best rooftop tents for SUVs, covering soft shell, hard shell, ultralight, and family-friendly options.

Let’s get into the top picks.

Quick Summary

• Best Overall: Naturnest Polaris Plus Hard Shell Rooftop Tent
• Best Budget Soft Shell: Naturnest Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
• Best Hard Shell for Families: BAMACAR Naturnest Hard Shell Rooftop Tent
• Best Lightweight Soft Shell: SanHima Alpine Rooftop Tent
• Best Stargazing Hard Shell: SanHima Jervis Rooftop Tent
• Best Low-Profile Hard Shell: SanHima Hotham Rooftop Tent
• Best Heavy Duty Expedition Pick: Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 Roof Top Tent

The Best Rooftop Tents for SUVs: Reviews

1. Naturnest Polaris Plus Hard Shell Rooftop Tent – Best Overall

The Naturnest Polaris Plus stands out as a premium hard-shell rooftop tent built for campers who value durability, comfort, and quick setup. The shell is made from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, giving it impressive strength and resistance to bending. Even in high winds or heavy rain, the tent remains stable, secure, and reliable. This is the kind of tent you can depend on during a long cross-country trip or a rainy weekend in the mountains.

Inside, Naturnest focuses heavily on comfort. The 3-layer mattress design includes a supportive base, a condensation-reducing middle layer, and a moisture barrier — all working together to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable. If you’ve ever woken up to a soggy sleeping pad, you’ll appreciate this attention to detail. Ventilation is excellent thanks to mesh windows and felt-lined surfaces that help control interior moisture.

Its premium build quality, blackout fabric, and integrated USB/LED lighting help create a cozy, enclosed sleeping space — a real highlight for early bedtimes or late mornings.

What We Like

• Extremely durable all-aluminum hard-shell construction
• 3-layer mattress system offers excellent sleeping comfort
• Blackout fabric + great insulation for all-season camping

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than fabric soft-shell tents

2. Naturnest Soft Shell Rooftop Tent – Best Budget Soft Shell

If you’re looking for a rooftop tent that’s affordable, comfortable, and easy to live with, the Naturnest Soft Shell Rooftop Tent is a great choice. It folds out into a spacious sleeping area large enough for two adults and one child, making it ideal for couples or small families. The biggest highlight here is the full-view sunroof, which allows you to enjoy fresh air and stargazing without even leaving your sleeping bag.

The tent fabric is made from high-density Oxford cloth with a 420D outer layer for added protection. This gives it solid resistance to wind, rain, and UV exposure. During colder, damp mornings, the tent stays warm and insulated, and during summer camping, the breathable materials and insect-screened windows keep fresh air moving without letting bugs in. The rainfly is fully removable, so you get to decide between privacy and open sky views based on the weather.

One of the biggest frustrations people have with rooftop tents is setup — but this one is designed to simplify the process. The mounting tracks come pre-installed, meaning you won’t have to spend an afternoon figuring out brackets, rails, and bolt positions. The included telescoping ladder feels sturdy and secure when climbing in and out — especially helpful during late-night bathroom trips.

This tent is a smart pick if you want the rooftop camping experience without jumping to the higher price of a hard shell. It gives you space, comfort, and versatility while keeping the process simple and approachable for beginners.

What We Like

• Spacious interior comfortably fits 2 adults + 1 child
• Sunroof feature allows natural light and nighttime stargazing
• Tracks come pre-installed for quicker setup

What We Don’t Like

• Less insulated than aluminum hard-shell models in winter

3. BAMACAR Naturnest Hard Shell Rooftop Tent – Best for Families

The BAMACAR Naturnest Hard Shell is built for campers who want more interior space without giving up durability or weather protection. Designed for 2–3 people, it works well for couples who camp with a child, a dog, or simply like having extra elbow room. With an aircraft-grade aluminum exterior and strong gas struts, it pops open in about 30 seconds, making setup almost effortless after a long drive.

Inside, the mattress system is one of its strongest points. The 5 cm thick mattress rests on layers that reduce condensation and isolate moisture, keeping your sleeping surface dry. The blackout fabric is especially helpful for anyone who prefers to sleep in, or who camps where sunrise can be very early. The tent also includes thoughtful storage solutions — from interior gear pockets to exterior shoe bags — which helps keep the sleeping area clean and organized.

Weather resistance is where this tent really stands out. The 310G polyester fabric paired with high-pressure waterproofing and wind-resistant design allows the tent to handle rainstorms, coastal conditions, and cold mountain nights. It even has space to integrate a cooling/heating channel, making it a true four-season tent for year-round use.

If you take longer camping trips or are building an overlanding setup, the top-mounted crossbars let you carry extra equipment like solar panels, bikes, or storage bins. This flexibility makes it a practical option for extended travel where gear space disappears fast.

The BAMACAR Naturnest is best for campers who value comfort, organization, and real weather readiness, especially couples or small families.

What We Like

• Spacious sleeping room for 2–3 people
• Strong pop-up gas struts make setup fast and smooth
• Storage pockets, shoe bags, and roof crossbars add practical convenience

What We Don’t Like

• Higher price point, but reflects the build quality and durability

4. SanHima Alpine Soft Shell Rooftop Tent – Best Lightweight Option

The SanHima Alpine is perfect for campers who want the rooftop experience without the extra weight. At just 81 lbs, it’s one of the lightest rooftop tents available, making it ideal for smaller SUVs, crossovers, and daily-drivers. The compact folded size also reduces wind resistance and fuel consumption while driving.

Despite being lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy. The 300D PU-coated polyester fabric provides waterproofing up to 3,000mm, and the honeycomb aluminum floor gives it stability and strength under movement. When open, you get large doors and skyview windows that let in natural light and airflow. The mesh screens keep bugs out while allowing fresh mountain or ocean air to pass through — especially nice on warmer summer nights.

The included “cloud foam” mattress has enough cushioning to feel comfortable even on longer camping trips. And thanks to the interior pockets, hanging loops, and included shoe bag, you can keep your essentials off the sleeping surface and stay organized.

This tent is best suited to weekend adventurers, road-trippers, and solo travelers, or anyone who wants the experience of sleeping elevated without the extra weight or bulk.

What We Like

• Extremely lightweight and easy to install or remove
• Skylight and window design create great ventilation and scenic views
• Honeycomb aluminum flooring adds durability and comfort

What We Don’t Like

• Less insulated for cold-weather conditions

5. SanHima Jervis Hard Shell Rooftop Tent – Best for Stargazing

The SanHima Jervis is built for travelers who want wide views and fresh airflow. The standout feature is the stargazer roof, which gives you a clear view of the night sky without opening the tent. Combined with windows on every side, it creates an open, breezy atmosphere inside.

The ABS anti-aging hard shell keeps the packed tent slim and aerodynamic on the road. When opened, the cloud-foam mattress and included anti-condensation mat create a comfortable sleep environment that stays dry through temperature changes. The 5,000mm waterproofing and UV protection help the tent handle rainstorms and sunlight during multi-day camping trips.

Inside, pockets keep gear organized, loops let you roll windows open cleanly, and the built-in LED light makes the tent feel more like a cozy cabin than a temporary shelter.

This tent is a great fit for campers who prioritize airflow, open sky, and comfort, especially in scenic locations where the view is part of the experience.

What We Like

• Stargazer roof and windows offer immersive nighttime views
• Comfortable mattress + anti-condensation system
• Easy setup with a durable low-drag shell

What We Don’t Like

• Taller profile than ultra-slim hard-shell models

6. SanHima Hotham Hard Shell Rooftop Tent – Best Low-Profile Design

The SanHima Hotham is designed for drivers who want rooftop camping without compromising daily practicality. When closed, it is only 5.43 inches thick, which is one of the slimmest profiles available. This reduces wind noise, improves fuel efficiency, and allows most SUVs to still fit in garages.

Inside, it still provides plenty of room — comfortably fitting two adults and a child. The 1.97-inch memory foam mattress offers excellent support and contours to your body, while the raised base helps prevent moisture buildup during cold or damp nights. The skyview window brings in natural light and lets you enjoy starry skies.

Weather performance is strong thanks to 420D rip-stop Oxford fabric and a 5,000mm waterproof rating, making this a reliable tent for year-round traveling.

This tent is best for people who want premium comfort and rugged protection, but still need their SUV to function as an everyday vehicle.

What We Like

• Ultra-slim profile is garage-friendly and aerodynamic
• Memory foam mattress provides superior sleeping comfort
• Excellent waterproofing and UV resistance

What We Don’t Like

• Higher cost due to low-profile engineering and materials

7. Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 – Best Heavy-Duty Expedition Tent

The Nomadic 3 is built for serious overlanding, long-distance travel, and harsh conditions. It uses 600D heavy-duty poly cotton ripstop canvas, marine-grade hardware, and a 1000G PVC travel cover — making it extremely durable and well-sealed. If you camp in deserts, storms, or windy conditions, this tent stays stable and weather-tight.

Inside, the 3-inch high-density foam mattress is one of the thickest and most supportive in rooftop tents — a major benefit for long trips where you need real rest. The dual skylight system gives you both fresh air and nighttime sky views, adding comfort and atmosphere.

This tent also has excellent interior organization, including six storage pockets and a removable gear loft, which helps keep clothes and small items off the sleeping area. The 96-inch telescoping ladder provides secure entry and exit, even on uneven terrain.

Choose this tent if you want something rugged, long-lasting, and ready for real adventure travel.

What We Like

• Extremely durable heavy-duty construction
• One of the most comfortable mattresses available
• Built-in skylights for airflow and nighttime views

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than average soft-shell tents

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Rooftop Tent for Your SUV

Choosing the right rooftop tent makes a big difference in comfort, durability, and ease of use. Here are the key things to consider before buying.

1. Hard Shell vs. Soft Shell

• Hard Shell Tents
  Pop up quickly, offer better insulation, and handle wind and rain extremely well. They’re ideal for frequent travelers or anyone camping year-round. The downside is a higher price and slightly heavier weight.
• Soft Shell Tents
  Generally bigger when opened and more affordable. They often feature awnings and annex room potential. But they take longer to set up and aren’t as quiet in high winds.

Choose hard shell if: You road trip often, camp in mixed weather, or want fast setup.
Choose soft shell if: You want maximum sleeping space and a lower starting cost.

2. Weight & Roof Rack Capacity

Check your vehicle’s dynamic load rating (weight roof can support while driving) and static load rating (while parked). SUV roof racks vary, so make sure your rack can handle the tent.

• Lightweight tents (<100 lbs) work well for compact and mid-size SUVs.
• Heavier hard shells (150–200 lbs) require strong crossbars.

If unsure, always check your vehicle manual and rack manufacturer specs.

3. Mattress Thickness & Comfort

Comfort is one of the biggest advantages of rooftop tents over ground tents.

Look for:

• At least 2 inches of high-density foam
• Additional condensation pad beneath the mattress
• Blackout fabric to keep light out

Hard-shell models typically include better mattress systems.

4. Weatherproofing & Durability

These features matter most in real-world camping:

• Waterproof coating: 3,000–5,000mm is ideal
• Wind resistance: Reinforced frames + secure rainfly
• UV resistance: Prevents fading and fabric weakening

If you plan to camp in wind, cold mountain climates, or rainy regions, prioritize stronger materials over portability.

5. Setup Time

If you’re setting up camp every night, faster matters.

• Hard shells: 20–45 seconds
• Soft shells: 3–7+ minutes

If you’ll camp in one spot for several days, setup time is less important.

6. Interior Space & Sleeping Layout

Think about who’s sleeping inside:

• Solo traveler → lightweight 2-person tent
• Couple → comfortable 2–3 person
• Family with child → choose a true 3-person rated tent

Also consider internal height if you like to sit upright and change clothes comfortably.

7. Storage & Organization

Built-in pockets, loops, shoe bags, and gear lofts keep clutter under control.
This makes a huge difference on longer trips.

If you’re often on the move → choose a tent with interior pockets + exterior shoe bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special roof rack for a rooftop tent?

Yes. You need crossbars rated for the tent’s weight. Factory racks sometimes work, but many people upgrade to aftermarket racks for stability.

Can I drive with the tent mounted full-time?

Yes. Many campers leave their tent on all season. Hard shells are better for full-time mounting because they’re more aerodynamic.

Do rooftop tents get hot?

Soft shells can get warmer because they rely on airflow. Hard shells with blackout/insulating layers stay cooler and block morning light better.

Can rooftop tents handle snow or winter camping?

Hard-shell models and thicker canvas tents are best in cold weather. Adding an insulated sleeping bag or thermal liner helps a lot.

Final Verdict

If you want the best overall rooftop tent that balances comfort, durability, and ease of use, choose the: Naturnest Polaris Plus Hard Shell Rooftop Tent. It offers excellent sleep comfort, all-weather performance, and a fast, simple setup that doesn’t require wrestling with poles or fabric.

If you’re on a budget or just starting out, the: Naturnest Soft Shell Rooftop Tent gives you the rooftop camping experience at a friendlier price, with great airflow and a beautiful star-view sunroof.

For families, long road trips, or serious overland travel, the: BAMACAR Naturnest Hard Shell Rooftop Tent and Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 3 provide dependable space, comfort, and rugged build quality.