Trailer Tent 2026: Build the Perfect Roof Top Tent Trailer Setup
Trailer Tent 2026: Build the Perfect Roof Top Tent Trailer Setup
A trailer tent is one of the smartest ways to camp. You mount a roof top tent on a trailer instead of your vehicle — keeping your roof free for kayaks, bikes, and cargo while towing a complete campsite behind you. It's the best of both worlds: the elevated comfort of an RTT with the towing simplicity of a small trailer. Whether you're converting a utility trailer into a camping rig or building a purpose-built overland tent trailer, this setup gives you a dedicated mobile campsite that's ready to deploy in minutes.
At Off Road Tents, we carry both the tent campers and the trailers you need to build a complete trailer tent setup. We've helped hundreds of customers pair the right rooftop tent trailer combination for weekend camping, month-long overland expeditions, and everything in between. Whether you're shopping for tent trailers for sale, looking for a trailer for a roof top tent you already own, or building an RTT trailer from scratch, we stock tent campers from the brands that serious overlanders trust — Smittybilt, iKamper, Bundutec, Overland Vehicle Systems, and GoFSR.
This guide covers everything you need to know about trailer tent camping. We'll explain why mounting an RTT on a trailer beats mounting on your vehicle for many campers, which tent camper models work best on different trailer types, how to choose between a utility trailer tent kit and a purpose-built camping trailer, and how to get the mounting and weight right. We'll also feature the six best rooftop tent trailer options we sell — tents specifically chosen because their weight, footprint, and mounting systems work perfectly on trailers.
📞 Building a trailer tent setup? Call us at 844-200-3979. We carry both tents and trailers — we'll help you match the right combination for your rig and your budget.
📋 Quick Navigation
What Is a Trailer Tent?
The term "trailer tent" covers a few different camping setups, and understanding the differences helps you find exactly what you're looking for.
The most popular version in the overlanding world — and what we specialize in — is a roof top tent mounted on a trailer. You take a camping utility trailer or a purpose-built off-road trailer, add crossbars or a roof rack, and mount a rooftop tent on top. The tent folds down compact for towing, then pops open at your campsite to give you a comfortable elevated sleeping platform. Your vehicle stays completely free — no rack modifications, no aerodynamic drag, no weight on your roof. You simply hitch the trailer and go.
Other types of trailer tents include pop-up tent trailers (fold-out campers like Jumping Jack trailers with canvas walls that expand from a trailer base), side tents (screen rooms that attach to existing camper trailers for extra living space), and expedition camper trailers (fully self-contained units like the OPUS Camper with built-in kitchens, showers, and sleeping areas). Each has its place, but the RTT-on-trailer approach offers the best balance of cost, simplicity, and flexibility for most campers.
Why? Because you're not locked into a single product. You pick the trailer that fits your tow vehicle and budget, then pick the camper tent that fits your camping style. You can upgrade either piece independently. And when you're not camping, the trailer hauls lumber, dirt bikes, or furniture — it's not a single-purpose camping rig gathering dust in the garage. It's the most practical way to get out into nature without permanently modifying your vehicle.
Why Mount an RTT on a Trailer Instead of Your Vehicle
Mounting a roof top tent on your vehicle works great — we sell thousands of them that way. But a trailer tent setup solves several real problems that vehicle-mounted RTTs create.
🚗 Free Up Your Vehicle's Roof
An RTT on your roof means no room for bikes, kayaks, cargo boxes, or extra gear up top. A rooftop tent trailer takes the tent off your vehicle entirely. Your roof rack is free for whatever else you need to carry. This is a massive advantage for adventure campers who haul toys alongside their tent.
⛽ Better Fuel Economy on the Road
A roof-mounted tent creates aerodynamic drag and wind noise that can cost you 2-4 MPG on the highway. A compact trailer tows low behind the vehicle where air resistance is minimal. Most tent trailers add only 0.5-1.5 MPG of towing loss — often less than a roof-mounted setup on long highway stretches.
🏕️ Leave Camp Set Up While You Explore
This is the biggest reason overlanders love trailer tent camping. Unhitch the trailer at your campsite, leave the tent deployed, and drive your vehicle to town for supplies, day hikes, or trail exploration. With a vehicle-mounted RTT, breaking camp means packing everything down every time you move. A trailer tent gives you a permanent basecamp.
📦 Extra Storage Space Built In
Camping trailers and utility trailers give you built-in storage that your vehicle doesn't have. Stow recovery gear, camp kitchens, water containers, firewood, and accessories in the trailer bed. Your vehicle's interior and truck bed stay clean and organized. Some overlanders build full drawer systems and cargo slides into their trailer — turning it into a mobile gear locker.
The Bottom Line
A tent trailer setup costs more upfront than mounting directly on your vehicle — you need both the tent and the trailer. But for campers who want to leave camp standing, keep their roof free, and store more gear, the trailer tent approach pays for itself in convenience. It's especially smart if you already own a utility trailer that's sitting idle between projects.
Best Roof Top Tents for Trailer Setups
Not every RTT works well on a trailer. Weight matters more because trailers have lower capacity than vehicles. Footprint matters because trailer decks are narrower. And mounting compatibility matters because trailer roof racks differ from vehicle racks. These six tent camper options are specifically chosen because they pair well with camping trailers and utility trailers.
OVS LD TMON Hard Shell RTT
Type: Hard Shell — Clamshell
Sleeps: 2 | Weight: Lightweight | Price: $1,249.99
Trailer fit: Compact footprint, ideal for utility trailers
The most affordable hardshell tent camper in our lineup and a perfect fit for utility trailer camping setups. The clamshell design pops open in seconds. Lightweight construction won't overload a small trailer. Waterproof, durable, and compact when closed — sits low on the trailer for easy towing. If you're building your first tent trailer on a budget, this is where to start.
Why it works on trailers: Lightweight keeps trailer tongue weight manageable • Compact footprint fits utility trailers • Clamshell opens fast at camp • Most affordable hardshell tent trailer option
Smittybilt Overlander Gen 1
Type: Soft Shell — A-Frame
Sleeps: 2-3 | Weight: 117 lbs | Price: $1,365.99
Trailer fit: Light enough for any trailer, proven reliability
The Smittybilt Overlander is one of the most popular tent campers in America for good reason. At 117 lbs it's feather-light — you can mount it on even the smallest utility trailer without worrying about capacity. 600D heavy-duty ripstop polyester canvas handles rain and wind. Features include LED interior light, shoe bag, large mesh windows on all sides for ventilation, and a sunroof for stargazing. Optional annex adds extra living space. Over 60 years of Smittybilt engineering in a tent that costs less than most weekend getaways.
Why it works on trailers: Only 117 lbs — lightest tent on this list • 600D waterproof canvas • Optional annex adds campsite living space • Budget price leaves room for trailer upgrades
OVS HD Bundu Hard Shell RTT
Type: Hard Shell — Pop-Up
Sleeps: 2-4 | Price: $1,699.99
Trailer fit: Doubles as cargo carrier, excellent for overland trailers
The HD Bundu brings serious capability to your tent trailer build. Pop-up hardshell design deploys fast and handles harsh weather. 280G ripstop canvas with blackout coating blocks morning light for better sleep. Key features include an aluminum honeycomb base for durability at low weight, ample storage pockets, and large mesh-covered windows for ventilation. When closed, it doubles as a roof top carrier — store clothes and gear inside during the journey. UV-stable ABS shell handles years of outdoor exposure.
Why it works on trailers: Pop-up design opens in seconds • Doubles as cargo carrier when closed • 2-4 person capacity for families • Blackout interior coating • Aluminum honeycomb base
GoFSR Aspen Lite RTT
Type: Hard Shell — Premium Compact
Sleeps: 2 | Price: $2,495
Trailer fit: Compact, lightweight, premium build quality
GoFSR builds some of the most refined hardshell tents in the overlanding world, and the Aspen Lite delivers premium quality in a compact package that's perfect for trailer mounting. The lightweight construction keeps tongue weight low while the hard shell provides genuine four-season protection. If you want a tent camper that looks as good as it performs and will last through years of trailer tent camping trips, the Aspen Lite is a serious contender.
Why it works on trailers: Compact footprint fits small trailers • Premium build quality lasts years • Hard shell protects against all weather • Lightweight for low tongue weight impact
iKamper Skycamp 3.0
Type: Hard Shell — King-Size Platform
Sleeps: 4 | Price: $4,595
Trailer fit: Best for larger off-road trailers, family camping
The iKamper Skycamp 3.0 is the gold standard for family tent trailers. King-size sleeping platform comfortably fits four adults. Poly-cotton blackout canvas keeps the tent dark in the morning and cool during summer. 9-zone insulated polyfoam mattress prevents condensation buildup. The hardshell opens in under a minute and looks stunning on an overland trailer build. For families who want the ultimate rooftop tent trailer experience, this is the one.
Why it works on trailers: King-size platform fits the whole family • Blackout canvas for better sleep • 9-zone insulated mattress • Opens in under 60 seconds • Best-in-class build quality
Bundutec BunduTop Hardshell
Type: Hard Shell — Electric Pop-Up
Sleeps: 2-3 | Price: $4,972.95
Trailer fit: Premium overland trailer builds, electric convenience
The BunduTop is the most advanced tent camper we sell. Push a button and the electric motor opens the aluminum hardshell in under 30 seconds — no climbing on the trailer to set up. South African engineering means expedition-grade durability. 300gsm rip-tech canvas, foam-backed insulated roof lining, built-in 12V fans for summer ventilation. Optional annex adds a private changing room or gear storage area. Built for overlanders who want a long-lasting, no-compromise trailer tent setup.
Why it works on trailers: Electric motor — open from the ground with one button • Aluminum shell is durable and insulated • 12V fans built in • Optional annex for extra space • South African expedition-grade quality
Quick Comparison: Trailer Tent Options Side-by-Side
Compare every tent camper we recommend for trailer setups. Find the right match for your trailer type and budget:
| MODEL | PRICE | TYPE | SLEEPS | WEIGHT | BEST TRAILER FIT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
OVS LD TMON ⭐ BEST VALUE |
$1,249.99 | Hard Shell | 2 | Light | Utility trailers, budget builds |
|
Smittybilt Overlander Lightest Option |
$1,365.99 | Soft Shell | 2-3 | 117 lbs | Any trailer, first-time builds |
|
OVS HD Bundu Cargo Carrier Hybrid |
$1,699.99 | Hard Shell | 2-4 | Moderate | Overland trailers, families |
|
GoFSR Aspen Lite Premium Compact |
$2,495 | Hard Shell | 2 | Light | Compact trailers, premium builds |
|
iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Family King-Size |
$4,595 | Hard Shell | 4 | Heavier | Large off-road trailers |
|
Bundutec BunduTop Electric Premium |
$4,972.95 | Hard Shell | 2-3 | 270 lbs | Heavy-duty off-road trailers |
Choosing Your Trailer Type for a Tent Camper Setup
The trailer you choose defines your entire tent camping experience. Each type has strengths and tradeoffs for utility trailer camping and overlanding.
Utility Trailers — The Budget-Friendly Foundation
A standard utility trailer is the most affordable way to build a trailer tent setup. These flatbed trailers are easy to find, cheap to buy used, and simple to modify with crossbars or a roof rack for mounting a tent. Most utility trailers weigh 500-1,200 lbs empty, and any vehicle with a Class II or III hitch can tow them. The open deck gives you flexible storage space for camping gear, recovery equipment, water containers, and firewood.
The tradeoff? Utility trailers aren't designed for off-road use. The suspension, tires, and ground clearance are made for highway and gravel roads. If you're sticking to established campgrounds and maintained forest roads, a utility trailer tent kit works perfectly. For serious backcountry overlanding, you'll want something more capable.
Off-Road & Overland Trailers — Built for Adventure
Purpose-built off-road trailers feature heavy-duty suspension, all-terrain tires, higher ground clearance, and reinforced frames designed to handle the same trails your vehicle can. Many come with integrated roof racks ready for tent mounting, plus built-in storage compartments, water tanks, and electrical systems with solar panels and lithium batteries. If you're looking for the ideal trailer for a rooftop tent, these purpose-built options are designed exactly for this use — pairing a quality RTT with a capable trailer to create a complete overlanding tent trailer.
These cost more, but they're purpose-built for the job. Many also include mounting points for an awning or retractable awning, giving you shaded outdoor living space alongside your tent. If you love camping and plan to use the setup regularly, an off-road trailer with a roof top tent is an investment that pays back in years of adventure. Check out our off-road trailer collection for available options.
Teardrop Trailers — Compact Versatility
Teardrop trailers offer built-in sleeping for two people inside the cabin, plus a roof rack on top for mounting an additional tent. This gives you a two-level camping setup — sleep two inside the teardrop and two more in the rooftop tent. Teardrops are compact enough to tow with smaller vehicles and easy to store in a standard garage. Many come with a rear galley kitchen built in, so you have cooking facilities without packing a separate camp kitchen.
Mounting & Setup: Building Your Trailer Tent
Getting the mounting right is critical for a safe, functional trailer tent setup. Here's what you need to know.
Roof Rack & Crossbar Requirements
Your trailer needs crossbars or a roof rack to mount the tent. Purpose-built camping trailers usually include integrated racks. For utility trailers, you'll need to add crossbars — either welded to the trailer frame or bolted to side rails. The crossbars need to be spaced 24-36 inches apart (check your specific tent's requirements) and rated for the tent's weight plus the weight of occupants while sleeping.
Weight Distribution & Tongue Weight
This is where trailer tent setups get tricky. The tent weight sits on top of the trailer, raising the center of gravity. Proper weight distribution keeps the trailer stable during towing. As a rule of thumb, 10-15% of total trailer weight should rest on the tongue (hitch point). Mount the tent centered over the axle or slightly forward to maintain proper tongue weight. If the tent sits too far back, the trailer can sway at highway speeds.
⚠️ Important: Never exceed your trailer's roof rack capacity or your tow vehicle's tongue weight rating. A 150 lb tent plus two 180 lb adults means 510 lbs of static load on the trailer rack while sleeping. Your rack, crossbars, and trailer frame all need to handle this safely. Call us at 844-200-3979 if you need help calculating weight for your specific setup.
Leveling Your Trailer at Camp
Sleeping on a slant is miserable. Unlike vehicle-mounted RTTs where you can find level ground for the car, a trailer gives you more flexibility — you can unhitch and reposition the trailer independently. Carry leveling blocks or ramps. Deploy the trailer's stabilizer jacks (if equipped) to prevent rocking when you climb in and out. A level, stable platform makes the difference between great sleep and a frustrating night.
Trailer Tent FAQ
What is a trailer tent?
A trailer tent is a roof top tent mounted on a trailer instead of directly on your vehicle. The tent folds down compact for towing, then pops open at camp to provide an elevated sleeping platform. This setup keeps your vehicle's roof free for other gear, lets you leave camp standing while you explore, and gives you extra storage space in the trailer bed. It's the preferred setup for overlanders, tent trailer campers, and anyone who wants a dedicated mobile campsite.
Can I put a roof top tent on a utility trailer?
Yes. Utility trailer camping with an RTT is one of the most popular and affordable ways to build a trailer tent. You'll need crossbars or a roof rack mounted to your utility trailer, rated for the tent weight plus occupant weight. Most utility trailers can handle tents up to 200 lbs. Lighter tents like the Smittybilt Overlander (117 lbs) and the OVS LD TMON ($1,249.99) are ideal for utility trailer tent setups.
Is a trailer tent better than mounting an RTT on my vehicle?
Neither is universally better — they serve different needs. A trailer tent frees your vehicle's roof for bikes, kayaks, or cargo. It lets you leave camp standing while you drive to town or explore trails. It reduces aerodynamic drag on your vehicle and adds storage. Vehicle-mounted RTTs are simpler (no trailer to tow), cost less overall, and work for vehicles without towing capability. If you value a basecamp setup and already have towing capacity, a rooftop tent trailer is the smarter long-term investment.
How much does a trailer tent setup cost?
A complete tent trailer setup ranges from $2,500 to $10,000+ depending on your choices. A used utility trailer ($500-1,500) plus an affordable tent like the OVS LD TMON ($1,249.99) gets you camping for under $3,000. A purpose-built off-road trailer ($3,000-6,000) with a premium tent like the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 ($4,595) runs $8,000-11,000. We carry both trailers and tents to fit any budget.
What's the best tent for a trailer tent setup?
For utility trailers and budget builds, the Smittybilt Overlander ($1,365.99) and OVS LD TMON ($1,249.99) are the best options — lightweight, affordable, and easy to mount. For families and larger overland trailers, the iKamper Skycamp 3.0 ($4,595) sleeps four in king-size comfort. For premium overland builds, the Bundutec BunduTop ($4,972.95) with its electric motor setup is unmatched.
Do I need a special trailer for a roof top tent?
No. Any trailer with a flat deck and the ability to mount crossbars can support a roof top tent — utility trailers, off-road trailers, flatbed trailers, and teardrop trailers all work. The key requirements are: crossbars rated for your tent weight plus occupant weight, proper tongue weight balance, and enough deck space for the tent's footprint when closed. Purpose-built camping trailers make this easier with integrated racks, but a modified utility trailer works just as well for the tent itself.
How do I set up a trailer tent at a campsite?
Setting up a trailer tent is straightforward. Park and level the trailer using leveling blocks or built-in stabilizer jacks. Deploy the stabilizer jacks to prevent rocking. Then open the tent — hardshell models pop up in under 60 seconds, while soft shell tents unfold in 5-10 minutes using the telescoping ladder as leverage. Extend the ladder, climb up, and you're home. The whole process takes under 15 minutes from pulling in to sleeping. When it's time to leave, reverse the process — fold the tent, secure the travel cover, and hitch up.
Can I leave my trailer tent set up while I drive my vehicle?
Yes — this is one of the biggest advantages of trailer tent camping over vehicle-mounted setups. Unhitch the trailer at camp, leave the tent open and your sleeping gear inside, then drive your vehicle wherever you need to go. Return to a ready-made campsite. This is why overlanders and multi-day campers love the tent trailer approach. Just make sure to deploy stabilizer jacks and secure the trailer so it doesn't move while the tent is open.
Are trailer tents waterproof?
Yes. Every tent camper we sell is built with waterproof materials — from the Smittybilt's 600D ripstop polyester with 1500mm water column rating to the iKamper's eco-friendly water-repellent coated rainfly. Hardshell tents like the OVS HD Bundu and Bundutec BunduTop offer superior rain protection because the rigid shell sheds water completely. The canvas and fabric components on all models feature reinforced seams and waterproof zippers. If packed away wet after camping in rain, dry the tent out at home to prevent mildew — the fabric is treated to resist it, but prolonged wet storage should be avoided.
How much weight can a trailer support for a roof top tent?
This depends entirely on your trailer's rack system and frame rating. Most utility trailers can handle 300-500 lbs on a properly mounted roof rack — enough for any RTT plus two adults. Off-road and camping trailers with integrated racks typically support 500-800+ lbs static (the weight while sleeping). Always check your specific trailer's rack capacity and frame rating before purchasing. The tent, occupants, and bedding all count toward the static load. For help calculating your specific setup, call us at 844-200-3979.
Why Buy Trailer Tents from Off Road Tents
We sell both halves of the equation — the tents and the trailers. That means we can help you build a complete trailer tent setup from scratch, matching the right tent to the right trailer for your vehicle, your camping style, and your budget. Most retailers sell one or the other. We sell both and understand how they work together.
Every tent camper we carry ships free. Whether you're browsing trailer tents for sale on a budget or investing in a premium overland build, we stock options from $1,249 to $4,972. We're authorized dealers for every brand we carry, which means full manufacturer warranties and genuine products. We also carry awnings and accessories that complement your trailer tent setup perfectly. If you're not sure which tent works on your trailer, call us. We answer these questions every day and we'll make sure you get the right fit.
📞 Need help building your trailer tent? Call us at 844-200-3979. We'll match the right tent to your trailer and get you on the road.
Related Trailer Tent Guides
Learn more about mounting, planning, and getting the most from your tent trailer setup:
Roof Top Tent Mounting & Installation Guide
Step-by-step mounting guide covering weight calculations, crossbar spacing, dynamic vs static loads, and installation tips. Essential reading before mounting any RTT on a trailer.
How to Plan an Overlanding Trip
A proven five-step planning system for your next adventure. Covers route planning, camp selection, gear checklists, and how to stay flexible on the road with your tent trailer setup.
Off-Road Trailers Collection
Browse our full selection of camping trailers and off-road trailers — the perfect foundation for your trailer tent build. Ready for RTT mounting out of the box.
All Roof Top Tents
Looking beyond our trailer tent picks? Browse our full RTT collection — hard shell, soft shell, 2-person to 4-person. Any roof top tent that fits your crossbar spacing can work on a trailer.
Ready to Build Your Trailer Tent?
We carry the tents, the trailers, and the knowledge to help you build a complete camping setup. Call us for expert advice on matching the right tent to your trailer.
