Soft Shell Roof Top Tents

Soft Shell Roof Top Tent

Soft shell roof top tents offer a convenient and comfortable way to elevate your outdoor adventures. These innovative tents combine the flexibility and ease of use of soft materials with the ruggedness and reliability required for camping in various conditions. Whether you're a seasoned explorer seeking a more streamlined camping setup or a beginner looking to make camping more accessible, soft shell roof top tents provide a versatile solution.

Soft shell roof top tents are also a lot more affordable than their counterparts; the hard-shell roof top tent, while still providing that well-insulated, year-round shelter that you can use on your next overlanding or camping trip. Unlike the hard shell roof top tents that have many opening styles, soft shell roof top tents usually always have a fold out opening style, meaning that one half od the tent stays on the roof rack when it is unfolded and the other hangs in the air.

The following guide will go over the different tents we have available, and hopefully by the end of this read you will know which one is yhe best choice for you.

Why Get A Soft Shell Roof Top Tent?

Soft shell RTTs are typically lighter than their hard shell counterparts. This weight advantage can translate into better fuel efficiency for your vehicle and easier handling. They are often more budget-friendly than hard shell options, making them accessible to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Soft shell roof top tents have a slimmer profile when closed, which can be beneficial for those who want to maintain their vehicle's aerodynamics, have minimal wind noise, or fit into tight spaces like garages. Many of the soft shell roof top tent models come with additional features like annexes or awnings, offering extra space for storage, changing, or shelter. They also often have more mounting options for accessories.

Soft shell roof top tent models are also well-suited for a variety of vehicles, including smaller SUVs and crossovers, as well as larger trucks. Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for different types of vehicles and camping styles. While soft shell tents might not be as rugged as hard shell options, they are still built to withstand various weather conditions. Many feature robust, waterproof materials that keep you dry during rain or snow.

Ultimately, choosing a soft shell roof top tent can be a practical and cost-effective way to enhance your camping and overlanding experiences while maintaining flexibility and adaptability for different vehicles and camping scenarios.

Best Soft Shell Roof Top Tent Models

Guana Equipment Wanaka Roof Top Tent With Annex

Here we introduce one of the highly sought-after models from Guana Equipment, the Wanaka RTT. It's essential to note that this model is available in three different sizes, catering to various needs. The smallest option is the Wanaka 55, followed by the medium-sized Wanaka 64, and the largest, the Wanaka 72. Regardless of size, they all share the same robust construction and impressive features.

The Guana Equipment Wanaka RTT is a soft shell roof top tent suitable for all four seasons. Its construction is exceptionally durable, crafted from rugged materials capable of withstanding even the most extreme weather conditions. Depending on the size you choose, this tent can comfortably accommodate anywhere from 3 to 5 people. An outstanding feature of this Guana Equipment tent is the included annex.

This annex serves a dual purpose; it can store additional camping gear or provide shelter for extra occupants. As previously mentioned, all sizes of this tent share the same rugged material, which is the 600D waterproof poly-oxford canvas featuring taped seams and a PU coating for added resilience. Furthermore, the Wanaka roof top tent includes a 600D waterproof poly-oxford rainfly.

For its construction, Guana Equipment employs 1-inch thick aluminum poles and a diamond anti-scratch aluminum plate for the base, which also features edge protectors to prevent canvas tearing. Another notable aspect of this Guana roof top tent is the presence of windows on all sides, allowing you to immerse yourself in the surrounding scenery. Additionally, it incorporates a skyview window that lets in ample daylight and provides a breathtaking view of the night sky.

When not in use, the tent can be securely stored in the heavy-duty 1000D PVC travel cover that comes with it. Surprisingly, this soft shell roof top tent is one of the most budget-friendly options available for its size and boasts one of the thickest mattresses on the market. Inside the tent, you'll find a 3-inch thick high-density foam mattress with its machine-washable cover.

The interior of the tent is equipped with multiple storage pouches, perfect for organizing smaller gear, clothing, toiletries, or personal belongings. Additionally, an LED light strip illuminates the tent's interior, annex, and the surrounding area, ensuring visibility during nighttime. Tent dimensions and weight vary based on the chosen size, and you can explore the details of all three available options below. Guana Equipment roof top tent models are not only affordable but also durable, making them an excellent choice for your next off-road adventure. Be sure to explore these options further!

Why do we like it?

• One of the highest quality soft shell roof top tents on the market
• Has one of the biggest annexes out there
• One of the most budget friendly tents
• Has a lot of integrated internal storage pouches

Smittybilt XL Soft Shell Roof Top Tent 4 Person

What we present here is one of the most lightweight 4-person roof top tent models available in the overlanding market today. It's a product of Smittybilt, a 4-person soft shell roof top tent that defies its lightweight design by excelling in resilience, capable of withstanding strong winds and the most extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for your upcoming overlanding adventure.

The Overlander, as a soft shell rooftop tent designed for three to four occupants, boasts a robust construction featuring 600D heavy-duty ripstop polyester canvas. This emphasis on durability extends to the canvas, which is both waterproof and polyurethane impregnated. Complementing the tent is a lightweight 420D oxford rainfly with water-resistant properties, bolstered by sturdy 4mm steel spring flysheet poles. For secure storage and transport, the package includes a robust 650gsm, 1000d PVC travel bag equipped with UV-resistant straps and a Velcro lining, ensuring complete waterproofing.

At its core, the base of this rooftop tent, designed for 4 individuals, incorporates a robust 1-inch thick aluminum/polyurethane composite, significantly contributing to its overall strength. Remarkably, despite its substantial features, the entire tent maintains a svelte weight of just 139 lbs while impressively accommodating an exceptional load capacity of 770 lbs. Inside the tent, occupants will discover a 60mm high-density foam mattress complete with a removable cover, promising a comfortable night's sleep. To keep pesky mosquitoes at bay, the tent is thoughtfully equipped with mesh-covered windows and openings on all four sides.

Adding to the camping experience, the Overlander XL soft shell roof top tent incorporates a sky view window, welcoming natural daylight during the day and providing a captivating stargazing vista by night. To enhance visibility, an LED light strip is included. Moreover, the tent introduces interior storage pockets, facilitating the organized arrangement of camping essentials, toiletries, and even footwear, contributing to a neat and orderly interior ambiance.

Why do we like it?

• One of the lightest roof top tents on the market
• Very robust aluminum construction
• Thick mattress and comfortable interior
• Integrated LED light strip for better visibility

IKamper X-Cover Insulated Roof Top Tent

Continuing our list we have another impressive soft shell roof top tent designed to comfortably accommodate up to four individuals, crafted by the reputable manufacturer, iKamper. Known for producing top-quality roof top tents, iKamper has once again demonstrated their expertise with the X-Cover 2.0. This all-season roof top tent comes loaded with a range of exceptional features that are bound to enhance your upcoming camping experience. Let's delve into the details to see what makes it stand out.

The iKamper X-Cover 2.0 is specifically engineered to be a four-season roof top tent, ensuring durability in the face of strong winds and various weather conditions. Thanks to its remarkably sturdy rainfly and rugged tent canvas, it boasts 100% waterproof capabilities, keeping you dry even during the most torrential downpours and providing insulation to keep you warm on the chilliest nights. Additionally, it creates a well-ventilated environment for hot sunny days.

One distinguishing feature of this soft shell roof top tent is its breathable, blackout 300gsm poly-cotton canvas, which effectively blocks out light and creates a dark, sleep-friendly atmosphere. Unlike previously mentioned iKamper roof top tents, this one boasts mesh-covered windows on all sides, providing a 360-degree view of the surrounding nature while keeping unwanted insects at bay. It even incorporates a Skyview window, allowing you to sleep under the stars for a truly immersive outdoor experience.

The interior of the iKamper X-Cover 2.0 is generously spacious, comfortably accommodating up to four individuals on its luxurious 2.75-inch thick, high-density insulated polyfoam mattress. Its well-insulated interior minimizes condensation and prevents moisture buildup.

In addition to its rugged canvas, this iKamper roof top tent boasts a highly durable, lightweight honeycomb aluminum panel floor that ensures both sturdiness and reduced weight. Notably, the tent shell is crafted from scratch-resistant and UV-resistant Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer.

Another standout feature of the shell is the integrated cross bars, which expand your carrying capacity, allowing you to transport even more gear for your outdoor adventures. Considered one of the finest soft shell roof top tents on the market, the iKamper X-Cover 2.0 comes highly recommended as an ideal addition to your camping setup. Be sure to explore it further!

Why do we like it?

• Very spacious 4 person roof top tent
• Very durable and rugged construction
• Easy to set up and use
• Well-insulated interior suitable for year round use.

TJM Soft Shell Roof Top Tent

Here we have another robust and dependable soft shell roof top tent. This particular model comfortably accommodates three individuals and has undergone rigorous testing in harsh weather conditions to validate its durability. When closed, it maintains a lightweight and low-profile design, ensuring it doesn't disrupt your vehicle's aerodynamics or create wind resistance and noise, even during high-speed travel.

The TJM Yulara roof top tent showcases a resilient construction capable of withstanding the most challenging weather conditions. Its sturdy aluminum base, combined with a 280gsm ripstop polycotton fabric, provides both strength and a lightweight build. Furthermore, it includes a waterproof and UV-resistant 420D polyester flysheet, ensuring occupants remain dry and protected from the sun's rays.

One of the tent's standout features is its spacious interior. With a sleeping area designed to comfortably house 2-3 adults, the TJM Yulara offers ample room for a restful night's sleep. Additionally, the interior is equipped with integrated LED lighting, delivering just the right amount of illumination after dark.

The tent prioritizes excellent ventilation, featuring mesh screens and awnings on all three sides. This design ensures a cool and comfortable interior throughout the night while effectively keeping bothersome insects at bay. Should you require additional space, there's the option to attach an annex, which can serve as extra sleeping quarters.

Setting up the TJM Yulara soft shell roof top tent is a straightforward process. Its unique design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling you to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors and less time struggling with complicated gear. When not in use, simply stow it away in the durable 1000D polyester cover provided, protecting it from the elements.

Why do we like it?

• Spacious 3 person soft shell roof top tent
• Very lightweight yet durable construction
• One of the most affordable RTTs on the market

ARB Series III Cheap Roof Top Tent

The ARB Series III Simpson roof top tent is a premium choice tailored for camping and overlanding enthusiasts. This soft-shell roof top tent boasts spaciousness, durability, and straightforward setup, catering to adventurers of all experience levels. Let's delve into the impressive array of features offered by this soft shell roof top tent.

A standout feature of the ARB Series III Simpson roof top tent lies in its robust construction. Crafted from high-quality materials, it can endure challenging weather conditions and extreme temperatures. The tent's structure incorporates a rugged poly/cotton canvas that provides protection against UV rays and waterproof capabilities, ensuring a dry and comfortable interior, regardless of the weather.

The tent's foundation is equally impressive, featuring a heavy-duty anodized aluminum frame. This frame is not only exceptionally strong but also lightweight, enhancing the tent's portability. Restful nights are guaranteed with a high-density, 2.5-inch thick foam mattress that offers a comfortable sleeping surface. Furthermore, each of the tent's openings is equipped with fine insect mesh, effectively keeping even the smallest bugs at bay.

Ease of use is another remarkable aspect of this soft shell roof top tent. Setting it up is a breeze, requiring just minutes for both assembly and packing away. The tent also incorporates a unique bungee cord system that maintains tautness and stability during windy conditions, making it a versatile option suitable for year-round and all-weather camping. For those in need of extra space, the tent includes an annex!

In conclusion, the ARB Series III Simpson roof top tent is an outstanding choice for individuals seeking a rugged, high-quality tent for their upcoming camping or overlanding adventure. Its sturdy build, comfortable interior, and user-friendly design ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience, regardless of your travel destination.

Why do we like it?

• The entrance point is located on the underside of the tent for added privacy
• Annex is included
• High quality canvas and construction
• All around weather proof

Freespirit Recreation Roof Top Tent

Here we have another exceptional soft shell roof top tent, crafted by FSR. This versatile all-season RTT comfortably accommodates 4 to 5 individuals and is purpose-built to endure severe weather conditions and strong winds. Surprisingly, given its size, it maintains a lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 154 lbs. Now, let's delve into the other remarkable features of this tent.

The tent body is constructed from 150D poly-oxford rip-stop tri-layer canvas, which has undergone treatments to resist UV rays, fire, and mildew, ensuring the fabric's durability. Included in the package is a 210D rip-stop poly-oxford rainfly featuring a silver and polyurethane coating. The tent's foundation is built upon a robust and durable extruded aluminum alloy, offering unwavering reliability. Furthermore, the double-stitched seams, reinforced with polyurethane seam tape, guarantee an impeccable, watertight seal.

For storage convenience, a 1200D PVC waterproof travel cover is provided, featuring an elastic underbelly for easy removal and installation, along with UV protection. Inside this 5-person roof top tent for trucks, you'll discover a 3" thick Air Core mattress, ensuring your comfort, while a 2" thick EPE foam layer beneath it provides additional cushioning. The tent is fully enclosed with windows, including a sky view window that welcomes natural light during the day and offers a fantastic view for stargazing at night.

Accessing and exiting this soft shell roof top tent is simplified by the telescoping aluminum ladder, which extends over 7 feet. The ladder is also detachable, providing flexibility in choosing the side of the tent for entry or exit. Moreover, the tent incorporates practical storage solutions such as shoe pouches and storage pockets, ensuring an organized and neat interior. Its versatile design accommodates full-size SUVs, mid-size trucks, and even full-size truck beds.

Why do we like it?

• One of the most spacious 5 person roof top tents
• Very lightweight construction
• Able to withstand harsh weather conditions and suitable for year round use
• Huge windows for enjoying the nature around you

Tepui Tents

Thule Tepui Explorer Ayer 2

Thule has carved out a well-deserved reputation for crafting top-tier overlanding and camping equipment, and their rooftop tents are a testament to their commitment to quality. These tents have earned a distinguished reputation for being among the lightest in the overlanding domain, upholding Thule's legacy of excellence. This particular model, classified as a soft shell variant, stands out as potentially one of the lightest choices within its category, boasting an incredibly low weight of just 95 lbs. Despite its featherweight nature, it retains the strength to brave strong winds and confront adverse weather conditions that frequently challenge your outdoor journeys.

Remarkably, this soft shell roof top tent, designed for two occupants, not only ranks among the lightest options available but also showcases exceptional compactness. Its adaptable design allows it to seamlessly mount onto various vehicle sizes, making it suitable for solo adventurers or couples eager to embrace the wonders of the great outdoors. Setting it up is a breeze, taking just a few minutes, and packing it away is equally hassle-free, perfectly aligned with your on-the-go lifestyle.

Crafted from 260g polyester cotton, the tent utilizes a robust 600D ripstop fabric further fortified with a water-resistant ventilated coating. It's engineered to withstand the rigors of UV exposure and mold growth. To complement this, a 420D polyester oxford fabric coated with PU enhances waterproofing, guaranteeing that both you and the tent's interior stay dry even in the most torrential downpours.

Thanks to its welded aluminum construction, this two-person soft shell roof top tent steadfastly resists strong winds and challenging conditions, maintaining its structural integrity. Inside, you'll discover a high-density 2-½" foam mattress outfitted with a machine-washable cotton cover. The tent incorporates openings on all four sides, offering a panoramic vista of your natural surroundings. Each opening comes furnished with no-see-um mesh, effectively warding off pesky insects. Additionally, this exceptional and cost-effective two-person tent includes an aluminum telescoping ladder, reaching a maximum height of 8' and 6", with adjustable features to accommodate varying vehicle heights.

Thule's expertise in crafting premium camping gear shines through in their lineup of rooftop tents. The blend of a lightweight, compact design with top-of-the-line materials, thoughtful engineering, and a comfortable interior makes this tent an enticing choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Its ability to seamlessly integrate convenience, protection, and expansive views positions it as an indispensable companion for unforgettable journeys. Whether you're venturing solo or with a companion, Thule's two-person rooftop tent promises elevated comfort and enjoyment for all your outdoor escapades.

Why do we like it?

• Lightest soft shell roof top tent on the market
• Durable build able to withstand harsh weather conditions
• Very easy to set up

Tepui Autana 3

The Thule Tepui Autana 3 rooftop tent offers an outstanding choice for those in search of a premium, rugged, and spacious soft shell roof top tent solution. This particular Thule rooftop tent is meticulously designed to comfortably house up to three individuals, making it an excellent fit for small families or groups of friends who relish camping and outdoor exploration.

A standout feature of the Thule Tepui Autana Ruggedized 3 rooftop tent is its robust construction. Crafted from top-quality materials, this soft shell roof top tent is engineered to endure harsh weather conditions and challenging terrains. Its tent body is fabricated from heavy-duty 600D ripstop fabric, delivering waterproof capabilities, while the rainfly is composed of sturdy 420D polyester. To further enhance its durability, the tent boasts an aluminum frame, striking a balance between lightweight design and impressive strength, ensuring stability and support even in demanding situations.

Another noteworthy aspect of the Thule Tepui Autana 3 rooftop tent is its generous interior space. When unfurled, the tent spans a spacious 122 x 56 inches, providing ample room for three occupants to sleep in comfort. Additionally, the tent features a high-density foam mattress that combines both comfort and support, promising a restful night's sleep, regardless of your location. Furthermore, the tent includes an annex that can serve as additional storage for camping gear or an extra sleeping area.

Setting up and taking down the Thule Tepui Ruggedized Autana 3 soft shell roof top tent is made easy by its uncomplicated design and user-friendly features. Equipped with a telescoping ladder, the tent can be adjusted to accommodate various vehicle types. Its large zippers, which are easy to operate, further simplify the process of opening and closing the tent as needed.

Why do we like it?

• Very rugged build
• Can withstand strong winds and hostile conditions
• Features integrated storage pockets
• Comes with a big annex

Soft Shell Roof Top Tent FAQS

What is the best soft shell roof top tent out there?

That all depends on you and your needs. But some of the best and highest quality soft shell roof top tents would have to be those that were manufactured by iKamper and Guana Equipment.

What is the difference between a hard shell vs soft shell roof top tent?

Well, the major difference is that the hard shell tent has a, well, a hard shell which makes it more aerodynamic especially when driving at high speeds. However soft shell roof top tents are a lot more budget friendly option. Both hard shell and soft shell roof top tents have their pros and cons but you won’t make a mistake getting either of them.

What is the cheapest soft shell roof top tent?

The cheapest soft shell roof top tent would have to be the OVS TMBK3 person soft shell roof top tent.