Rei Rooftop Tent

Jordan York
17 min readMar 21, 2024

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Get ready to elevate your camping experience to new heights with the versatile and stylish Rei Rooftop Tent. In this roundup article, we’ll be diving into the features, benefits, and top models of this innovative rooftop tent that sets the standard for comfortable and convenient outdoor adventures.

The Top 11 Best Rei Rooftop Tent

  1. Rough Country Roof Top Tent: Luxury Camping Tent for Adventures — Enjoy a comfortable and durable rooftop experience with the Rough Country (99050) Roof Top Tent, featuring a bed size of 92" x 62", a gray tent with rain fly, and 600D Oxford Rip Stop fabric with UV protection.
  2. Comfortable Bronco Roof Tent for Adventurers — Experience the ultimate in comfort and convenience with the TentBox Classic Roof Tent, now with a 60-second setup time, designed to feel like a cozy bedroom on your adventurous Bronco!
  3. Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent: Ultimate Off-Road Shelter and Camping Experience — Discover ultimate off-road shelter with the Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell Rooftop Tent, a versatile and low-profile option designed for all-terrain enthusiasts.
  4. Autohome Columbus Variant Rooftop Tent: Versatile Camping Solution for Adventurers — The Columbus Variant Cvbs/01 rooftop tent offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience with fully adjustable windows, and secure installation on any vehicle.
  5. Ultra-Compact, Spacious Roof-Top Adventure Tent — Thule Tepui Foothill Tent — Compact, durable, and perfect for two, revolutionizing rooftop adventures while maximizing storage space.
  6. Versatile Roof Top Tent for All Seasons — The Rev Rack Tent is a versatile, heavy-duty 4-season option with a built-in mattress for roof-top camping, weighing just 25 lbs / 11 kgs, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  7. Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3: All-Season Roof-Top Tent for Unforgettable Camping Adventures — The Thule 901300 Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3 Haze Gray Tent offers all-season performance with weather-resistant materials, accommodating up to three people in its spacious interior, and featuring an aluminum base and UV-resistant canopy.
  8. High-Quality 4-Season Roof Top Tent for Outdoor Adventures — The Crua Culla Haul Maxx: The perfect inner tent for all-season temperature regulation and noise reduction, perfect for rooftop tents, RVs, and boats.
  9. Rooftop Tent for Excursions — Tuff Stuff 65" Ranger Overland 3 Person — Experience ultimate comfort and convenience with the 65" Ranger Overland Roof Top Tent by Tuff Stuff, featuring a 3-person sleeping capacity, durable materials, and easy mounting options for enhanced outdoor adventures.
  10. Smittybilt Universal Overlander Roof Tent — Convenient, Spacious 2 Person Tent — Upgrade your outdoor experience with the Smittybilt Universal Overlander Roof Tent, offering a secure, spacious, and self-contained sleeping solution in minutes.
  11. TentBox Lite 2.0 — Compact, Easy-to-Install Rooftop Tent for Adventures — Embark on unforgettable adventures with the TentBox Lite 2.0 — the ultimate rooftop shelter designed for effortless exploration, providing top-notch comfort and convenience on your quest for adventure.

Reviews

Rough Country Roof Top Tent: Luxury Camping Tent for Adventures

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Embarking on overlanding adventures would never be complete without a Rough Country Roof Top Tent. This tent stands out for its unique design and functionalities. The tent can accommodate 2–3 people comfortably and comes with a queen-sized mattress made of 2" thick high-density fire-retardant foam. The tent’s structure is built using durable 600D Oxford Rip Stop fabric, a 420D rain fly extension, and a strong aluminum frame. The structure comes with a 2000 water resistance level, so even during heavy rains, you can stay cozy and dry.

The tent also comes with a convenient 12-volt accessory and LED light kit to brighten up the interior for those late-night adventures. If you’re worried about mosquitos, the tent features mosquito screens to keep them at bay. Finally, the mounting hardware provided with the tent allows it to work seamlessly with most Rough Country roof racks and aftermarket racks. The reviewers loved how easy it was to install, use, and pack away when not in use. Some even mentioned that they were thinking of getting a second one for their trailers. Overall, the Rough Country Roof Top Tent is a convenient addition for those who love to travel and camp in style.

Comfortable Bronco Roof Tent for Adventurers

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I recently took a weekend trip with my tent-box classic roof tent, and I was blown away by the comfort it provided. The high-density foam mattress truly made a difference and brought luxury to my outdoor camping experience. The vehicle-grade ABS body frame with a 2000mm HH rating gave me the feeling of safety and security while sleeping on the roof of my car.

One aspect of the tent-box classic that I particularly enjoyed was its easy setup, taking no more than 60 seconds to put up or take down. The boxy shape made it feel more like a bedroom than a rooftop tent, adding a sense of coziness and familiarity. Additionally, the UV protection feature was also beneficial, as it ensured that our belongings were protected from sun damage.

However, one downside I encountered was the condensation issue, which I had to address to make the most of my camping trip. Despite this minor setback, the overall experience was positive, and I would highly recommend the tent-box classic to anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient rooftop tent for their adventures.

Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent: Ultimate Off-Road Shelter and Camping Experience

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The Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell Rooftop Tent is a versatile, durable solution for the adventurous spirit. With its sleek, aerodynamic design, setting up camp has never been easier. The tent itself is lightweight yet sturdy, with a low-profile ABS shell that effortlessly blends in with your vehicle.

One of the standout features is the massive sleeping area, which accommodates 2–3 people comfortably. As someone who’s made use of this tent for weekend adventures, I can vouch for the plush, 2" thick high-density foam mattress that makes for a restful night’s sleep.

However, I also noticed the slight challenge in its storage capacity. Despite the presence of internal storage pouches, hooks, and even a shoe storage bag, the overall space does feel a bit cramped.

Nevertheless, the Smittybilt Overlander Hard Shell Tent never felt unsafe, thanks to the secure stainless steel closures and the thoughtful inclusion of gas-assisted struts for opening and closing.

Overall, this tent successfully strikes a balance between comfort, durability, and convenience, making it a top choice for those who long for a home away from home amidst the wilderness.

Autohome Columbus Variant Rooftop Tent: Versatile Camping Solution for Adventurers

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I had the chance to test out the OK4WD — Autohome Columbus Variant Cvbs/01 tent for a weekend camping trip. Right off the bat, I was impressed with its sleek design and the ease of setting it up on my car’s roof rails. The adjustable openings of the rear door came in handy when I needed extra ventilation or visibility.

One of the best features was the ample space provided by the tent’s overall length, which allowed me to comfortably sit up and store my gear without feeling cramped. The adjustable-size windows really made a difference when it came to controlling light and airflow. Even with the windows open, the Columbus Variant kept my privacy intact.

However, there were a couple of downsides to this tent. First, the handcrafted techniques resulted in slight variations in size, so it was essential to double-check the dimensions before purchasing. Second, while the tent’s pillows and night-time accessories were a nice touch, I found that they took up valuable space when it came to storing other essentials.

Overall, the OK4WD — Autohome Columbus Variant Cvbs/01 roof top tent proved to be a comfortable and convenient choice for my camping needs, but prospective buyers should be aware of the potential size discrepancies and storage limitations.

Ultra-Compact, Spacious Roof-Top Adventure Tent

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When I first heard about the Thule Tepui Foothill Tent, I was excited to try out this compact roof-top tent for my next adventure. With just 61 cm of foldable width, it was a dream come true for someone like me who always wants to travel light and make the most of the space.

As soon as I set up the tent, I was amazed at how much room it had, even though it was designed for two people. The internal telescopic poles were a breeze to configure and set up, allowing me to personalize the experience based on my needs.

One thing I did notice, however, was the weight. It was a bit of a struggle getting it on and off the vehicle, although with two people, it wasn’t too much of an issue. The low-profile design was great when it came to aerodynamics and storage space, but I did have some concerns about the cover and straps holding up over time.

The zips on my tent were a bit of a letdown, with issues showing up by the third time I used it. I was grateful for bungie cords and ratchet straps I kept on hand, but the thought of dealing with zippers at a moment’s notice was disheartening. I even tried to order replacement parts, but my inquiries fell on deaf ears.

Despite these downsides, I must admit that I enjoyed the overall experience with the Thule Tepui Foothill Tent. It was comfortable, roomy, and provided an unforgettable sleeping experience. It’s a bit pricey, but the memories and convenience it brings are priceless.

Versatile Roof Top Tent for All Seasons

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Using the C6 Outdoor Rev Rack Tent in the middle of a camping trip, I couldn’t help but be impressed by its durability and ease of use. The sturdy construction made it perfect for the great outdoors, while the built-in mattress provided a comfortable and cozy spot to rest my head after a long day exploring. However, the weight of the tent felt a bit heavy, making it a bit of a challenge to transport from place to place.

Overall, the Rev Rack Tent offers a variety of features that make it a great option for anyone looking to up their camping game.

Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3: All-Season Roof-Top Tent for Unforgettable Camping Adventures

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I recently had the chance to camp with the Thule 901300 Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3 Haze Gray Tent, and I must say, I am in love. This tent is perfect for an outdoor enthusiast like me who loves to explore the wilderness.

One of the highlights for me was the size. It’s spacious enough for three people, making it perfect for my family of four. The mattress was comfortable, and I appreciated the removable cotton mattress cover that came with it. It added a layer of comfort that made a significant difference during our camping trips.

The setup was straightforward, and I could easily set it up at any of the camping sites we visited. I also liked that the tent was designed for all-weather use, making it perfect for any season. The waterproof canopy, large no-seam mesh windows, and water-resistant YKK zippers were an added bonus that I appreciated during our camping trips.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks I encountered. The straps that hold the tent down were somewhat weak and needed more strength to store the tent away. I also wished the mattress was softer, but it was still comfortable enough for our needs.

Overall, the Thule 901300 Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3 Haze Gray Tent was a great investment for my camping adventures. Its size, comfort, and all-weather performance make it a standout choice for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.

High-Quality 4-Season Roof Top Tent for Outdoor Adventures

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Imagine waking up to a cozy and warm night’s sleep after a long day of adventure with the Crua Culla Haul Maxx. This innovative inner tent was designed to fit perfectly with the Crua Aer Maxx and offers a unique versatility that adapts to various scenarios. From rooftop camping to boat trips or RV vacations, it’s your reliable companion for the ultimate restful experience in any environment.

The Crua Culla Haul Maxx goes beyond mere temperature regulation. It also serves as a blackout and noise-cancelling tent, providing you with a comfortable and undisturbed night’s sleep. Its modular design ensures quick and easy setup, expansion, and insulation, while the air-frame beams allow you to inflate it in just 60 seconds.

However, it’s essential to note that the Culla Haul Maxx is not a standalone tent; it only functions as an inner tent when paired with another shelter. Also, customers must purchase the air pump separately as it doesn’t come with the package. If you’re seeking convenience and peace of mind, consider the secure payment method, hassle-free returns, and flexible financing options offered by Crua, the tent experts.

Rooftop Tent for Excursions — Tuff Stuff 65" Ranger Overland 3 Person

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I’ve been living the rooftop tent life for a few weeks now, and let me tell you, it’s not for the faint of heart. I chose the 3-person Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland from the sea of choices, and boy, am I glad I did.

The tent is a sturdy beast, weighing in at a hefty 164 lbs. But that weight can be deceiving. The first time you flip it open, you’re greeted with a spacious living area — 65 inches by 96 inches by 52 inches. It feels like a real-life tent house, and it’s perfect for those who love car camping.

The 280G Poly/Cotton Rip-Stop fabric used in the construction is the real deal. In my case, the rainfly was a must-have. I had a night where Mother Nature decided to challenge the tent with a downpour. But, guess what? Not a single drop found its way in. The tent was as dry as a bone, and I slept in comfort and peace.

However, there were a couple of downsides to this tent. Firstly, I felt like the mounting brackets were just a little too close together. I’m sure I’ll figure it out eventually, but it’s something I needed to work around.

Secondly, I faced a minor issue with the ladder. It only locks into one position, fully extended. For my 360-pound physique, climbing that ladder made me feel like I was about to join the circus, performing acts of daring.

Despite the couple of hiccups, I can confidently say that this Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland is a solid choice. It offers enough space for us to feel at home, even if we’re in the middle of a forest. And in a world where comfort on the road is a luxury, it’s a luxury I’m glad I’ve invested in.

Smittybilt Universal Overlander Roof Tent — Convenient, Spacious 2 Person Tent

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I’ve recently tried out the Smittybilt Universal Overlander Roof Tent, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience! The tan 2.5cm aluminum and polyurethane sandwich base made setting up the tent in minutes a breeze. The secure and spacious above-ground sleeping quarters were perfect for my trips.

One of the most impressive features was how self-contained the tent was. All bedding and accessories were conveniently stored inside the tent, allowing me to save crucial storage space while traveling. Tear down and packing were also a breeze, making the tent quite hassle-free. However, the base seemed to take up more space than I would have liked. It also took a bit of getting used to, but once I did, the overall experience was excellent.

TentBox Lite 2.0 — Compact, Easy-to-Install Rooftop Tent for Adventures

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As an adventurous traveler, I recently had the pleasure of using the Sunset TentBox Lite 2.0. The moment I saw it, I knew it was going to be an excellent addition to my car. Easily mounted on my roof bars, the TentBox Lite 2.0 allowed me to enjoy a cozy bed amidst the wonders of nature.

The welcome kit, which included fairy lights, was a delightful surprise and a wonderful touch. It added a touch of magic to my camping experience. The travel cover and storage straps also proved to be invaluable, ensuring my gear remained dry and secure when I wasn’t using the tent.

However, I did encounter a slight issue with the stiffness of the mattress initially. Although I found that adding a mattress topper resolved the problem, it could be a consideration for others as well.

Overall, my experience with the Sunset TentBox Lite 2.0 has been nothing short of exceptional. Its ease of set up, durability, and comfortable sleeping space have made it an essential companion for my adventures. I highly recommend it to any fellow travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable rooftop tent!

Buyer’s Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive buyer’s guide for the REI Rooftop Tent! If you’re new to the world of rooftop tents or considering upgrading your camping experience, this guide is designed to provide you with valuable information, expert advice, and general considerations to help you make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

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Rooftop Tent Features and Functionalities

Rooftop tents offer a unique combination of portability, comfort, and convenience. Let’s dive into some important features and functionalities of these tents that set them apart from traditional camping gear:

  1. Mounting system that allows easy attachment to your vehicle, 2) Compact design for better fuel efficiency and ease of storage, 3) Quick setup and take down, and 4) Enhanced protection against weather elements while providing a comfortable sleeping space.

Important Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Rooftop Tent

When shopping for a REI Rooftop Tent or any other brand, there are several crucial factors to consider. First, you need to evaluate your camping needs, such as the number of campers, preferred sleeping height, and desired convenience features. Next, consider factors like weight and size of the tent, ease of setup, durability, and warranty coverage.

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Advice for Maximizing Your Rooftop Tent Experience

Once you’ve chosen the perfect REI Rooftop Tent, it’s time to make the most of your investment. Here are some general tips for enhancing your rooftop camping experience:

  1. Ensure proper mounting and secure attachment of your tent to your vehicle, 2) Choose a suitable campsite with decent access to nearby facilities like restrooms, 3) Pack extra gear such as a portable power bank, and 4) Don’t forget to read the user manual and practice setting up and tearing down the tent in advance.

Additional Considerations and Cautions

While rooftop tents offer numerous advantages, they also come with their own set of considerations and potential challenges. For instance, make sure to follow safety guidelines during installation and removal of the tent. Additionally, consider potential height limitations when towing your vehicle, and always check the compatibility of your chosen tent with your vehicle’s roof.

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FAQ

What are the key features of the REI Rooftop Tent?

The REI Rooftop Tent offers several features to enhance the camping experience. It has a solid, weather-resistant construction with a polycotton canopy for protection from the elements. The tent also has pre-attached straps to make installation and removal easy. Other features include full mesh panels for ventilation, and the interior and exterior of the tent have been designed with easy setup in mind.

Additionally, the tent is roomy, providing plenty of space for gear storage and sleep, and it comes with an easy-to-use adjustable bed system for optimal sleeping comfort. The tent also has a stargazer window for enjoying nighttime vistas and comes in multiple colors to suit personal preferences. Overall, the REI Rooftop Tent has a sleek and functional design that caters to varied camping needs.

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What is the weight capacity of the REI Rooftop Tent?

The REI Rooftop Tent can accommodate up to 400 pounds (181 kg) of gear and two people. This weight capacity ensures that the tent can support the average adult or a combination of gear and passenger weight without compromising its structural integrity or stability. The use of high-quality materials also contributes to the overall durability of the tent, allowing it to withstand various weather conditions and prolonged usage.

It is essential to adhere to the weight limit guidelines to ensure the longevity of your REI Rooftop Tent and to maintain a safe camping experience. Always check the tent’s weight capacity before using it, and consider sharing the weight among camping gear and supplies to stay within the recommended limit.

How does the REI Rooftop Tent attach to a vehicle?

The REI Rooftop Tent attaches to a vehicle using an easy installation method called a base rack. Base racks are typically designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks, making this tent versatile in terms of compatibility. Most base racks are made of a strong, lightweight material, such as aluminum or steel, and are adjustable to ensure proper fit and stability.

To attach the tent, simply place the base rack on your vehicle, secure it using straps or clamps, and then mount the REI Rooftop Tent onto the base rack. The tent’s pre-attached straps help with the mounting process, allowing for a secure and stable installation. Always follow the provided instructions and safety guidelines when attaching the tent to your vehicle to ensure that it is properly secured and ready for use.

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What size is the REI Rooftop Tent?

The REI Rooftop Tent is available in two different sizes: the REI Rooftop Tent 2 and the REI Rooftop Tent 3. The 2-person tent measures approximately 71 inches (180 cm) in width, 100 inches (254 cm) in length, and 47 inches (119 cm) in height when set up. The 3-person tent offers slightly more space, measuring approximately 82 inches (213 cm) in width, 100 inches (254 cm) in length, and 47 inches (119 cm) in height.

Both sizes provide ample space for sleeping, storage, and relaxation, making the REI Rooftop Tent an excellent choice for solo travelers or small groups of campers. When choosing the size, consider the number of people who will be using the tent and how much gear or equipment you plan to bring on your camping trips.

How does the REI Rooftop Tent handle rain and other adverse weather conditions?

The REI Rooftop Tent is designed to handle various weather conditions, including rain. It features a polycotton canopy material that provides protection from rain and helps keep campers dry. The tent’s sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand strong winds as well, with sealed seams and a tight-fitting canopy to reduce air circulation and help maintain warmth inside the tent.

Additionally, the tent has full mesh panels for excellent ventilation, which not only helps control moisture buildup but also contributes to a comfortable sleeping environment. In cases where heavy rain or adverse weather conditions are expected, always follow the proper installation and safety guidelines to ensure a secure and stable tent setup. This may include checking for any loose components, securing the tent more tightly, and considering the ideal location for camping.

What is the warranty coverage for the REI Rooftop Tent?

The REI Rooftop Tent comes with a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty covers defects in workmanship and materials, ensuring that the tent will perform as expected. Should a defect arise, REI will repair or replace the affected part(s) free of charge. Customers can also contact REI for additional warranty information and to initiate the warranty process.

It is essential to register the REI Rooftop Tent with the company to validate the warranty, as unregistered products may not be covered. Always follow the care and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer and store the tent in a dry, clean environment when not in use to extend its lifespan and maintain warranty eligibility.

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