Roof top tents, also known as car-mounted tents, are becoming increasingly popular in Australia as a way to explore the country’s beautiful outdoors. These tents are mounted on top of a vehicle, most commonly a 4WD or ute, and can be easily set up and taken down for camping trips. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best roof top tents available in Australia.
Before we dive in, it’s important to note that when choosing a roof top tent, you must consider the weight and ease of setup. As a first step, check your vehicle’s weight capacity and make sure that the tent you choose is compatible with your vehicle.
Front Runner Roof Top Tent
The Front Runner Roof Rack rooftop tent is the ultimate solution for comfortable and convenient shelter on the go. Designed to sleep 2+ people, it mounts easily to the top of your Front Runner Roof Rack and opens in one smooth motion for an instant bedroom. Weighing only 43kg, it is lighter than comparable roof top sleeping solutions, making it an ideal option for adventurers on the move. The tent body is constructed of water-repellent and durable 260g poly-cotton ripstop fabric, while the full-coverage rainfly is made of waterproof, UV-resistant 400d polyester oxford fabric that can be easily removed or installed using side-release buckles. The tent’s durable base, made with an aluminum frame, sheeting, and dense foam core, provides a sturdy, insulated foundation for a comfortable high-density foam mattress (6cm thick) with a washable moisture and mildew-resistant polyester oxford fabric cover. Skylight vent windows in the roof can be unzipped for fresh air, sunlight, or starlight views, or sealed to trap heat and seal out the elements. The side window privacy panels can be zipped upwards to adjust the size of the opening based on privacy needs or weather conditions. Additionally, two hanging pockets provide ample storage for personal items (34cm x 22cm). When not in use, the tent is protected by a durable, heavy-duty PVC-coated 650g nylon tent cover while in transit. Mounting tracks (included) can be mounted front-to-back or side-to-side, depending on your needs, making this rooftop tent a versatile and reliable solution for all your adventures. RRP $1350.
ARB Simpson III Rooftop Tent
This rooftop tent includes an annex made of waterproof poly-cotton that offers UV protection. The tent itself is manufactured from high quality 300GSM PU impregnated canvas, with taped sealed seams for double protection and all weather vents for reduced condensation. The ARB Simpson weights in at 70kg and comes with a 1″ diameter anodized aluminum retractable ladder that can support up to 120kg, and a 6cm thick density bonded chip foam mattress with removable cover for increased comfort and durability. The tent also features a twist lock pull-out all-weather awning and optional zip-on annex, fine insect screened windows and doors, and a UV stabilized laminated welded PVC cover with high quality vision zippers. The tent is easily mounted to ARB’s purpose-designed roof racks or most rated cross bar systems and can be unfolded off either the side or rear of the vehicle. The all-weather entry door has grab straps to assist in getting into the tent, and all aluminum components feature an anodized finish for improved corrosion resistance and appearance. The tent comes complete with mounting hardware, wrenches, ladder, travel cover, and of course, comprehensive instructions. ARB Awnings can also be paired with the rooftop tent for added functionality. RRP $1799.
James Baroud Discovery Evolution
The James Baroud Discovery roof top tent is a cost-effective entry into the hard shell category of tents. With only one side opening, this tent is very easy to open and close, even for one person. It is also wind-tested and waterproof to the same high standards as the other hard shell tents in the James Baroud range. The Discovery Evolution has a compact size that reduces the height profile of your vehicle, allowing you to travel deeper into hidden 4WD locations. The tent comes with a removable and rechargeable LED torch, as well as a sturdy aluminium ladder with sliding action and storage cover. The aluminised polyester fabric is of high quality, double-stitched, and has six ISO ratings, making it tear-resistant. The back door has tear-resistant mosquito mesh, zipper, and Velcro fastening, as well as an integrated window. This tent has six fabric coatings, which reflect the sun rays, are anti-UV, non-perishable, 100% waterproof, and breathable. The Discovery is 100% waterproof and breathable, measuring in at 200cm (length) x 140cm (width) x 145cm (height) and weighing 60kg. RRP $5699.
Adventure Kings Roof Top Tent
The Adventure Kings Roof Top Tent is a great option for the budget conscious camper. The tent offers great value being constructed from tough 320gsm poly cotton ripstop canvas, the roof top tent is fully waterproof and insect proof, making it perfect for tropical environments, and can be setup in under 3 minutes according to the manufacturer. The tent’s flat fell seams ensure minimal fraying and wicking, and its high-density open-cell mattress dries quickly. The windows feature a sand-fly and midge-proof mesh, which maintains its anti-tear characteristics.
The ladder included is designed for lifted 4WDs and is suitable for installation on almost any model, while ladder extensions are available for higher vehicles. The PVC cover is made from heavy-duty 600 GSM, providing excellent protection against low overhanging trees or obstacles.
Additionally, the tent boasts a huge 2.5m x 1.3m wide bedding area with an extra-thick and comfy 75mm high-density foam mattress, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. The total weight is 57kgs and an optional Four or Six Person Annex is available, providing a fully enclosed room downstairs for extra sleeping space or a private area to eat, relax, or get changed out of the elements. RRP $899.
Rooftop Tents Australia – Final Word
Roof top tents are a great way to explore Australia’s beautiful wilderness and are becoming increasingly popular among campers. There are many different options available, but the Blackwolf Turbo Lite 300 Plus, Front Runner Roof Top Tent, ARB Simpson III Rooftop Tent, James Baroud Discovery Evolution, Patriot Campers X1 and Adventure King are some of the most popular options on the market.