Thread: Rooftop "tents"

Originally Posted by steadwah

Nice solution to a problem. You're an ideas man.

Thank you. Works really well. some 50x25x2.5 RHS with a small bit of flat bar tigged on is a lot cheaper than the rhino rack bars. And a $40 6x pulley block from M10. The rope is shit but does the job. Have one permanently set up in a shed and carry another when travelling around. Especially when we go to the south island and stay with family. Find a tree, shed or anything high enough to get under and lift it off. Once on the ground the RHS sticks out one side and i can walk it across the ground vertically on its side and clip the roof racks back in.

I will just reiterate that there is an awful lot of naysaying in this thread from guys that have never used a roof tent. And probably never will.

The only two guys to have replied that actually own roof tents, love them.

Nothing quite like hands on experience to form an objective opinion.

Originally Posted by Flyblown

I will just reiterate that there is an awful lot of naysaying in this thread from guys that have never used a roof tent. And probably never will.

The only two guys to have replied that actually own roof tents, love them.

Nothing quite like hands on experience to form an objective opinion.

Are there any guy lines to set out, or is it 100% self supporting? I’ve never used one, but think they’re probably the best option for their intended purpose. Which is extended off-seal trips. I know I’d rather be in a roof tent on the side of a track, than set up a tent on the side of a track. Your not searching around for a suitable spot to pitch, just parking up. As for not being able to drive off once you’re set up, well where are you going anyway? I’m not that keen on driving off and leaving my tent camp all set up. If it suited me, I’d not be at all concerned about increased fuel usage or noise etc, the convenience at the other end cancels that out. Can they be mounted above a flat deck flush with the roofline, or does that create dust issues?


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No guy lines unless you get the extended Feldon Shelter which would be nice as if its pissing with rain and you have to get out you get a wet arse. Just 8 sprung loaded poles to hold the fly out. Pretty quick to install there is a hole in the alu base and then spring into the fly. You don't need them if in a hurry but if its windy stops the flapping.
Im 1.8m tall and can comfortably sit up inside. I have found them nice and cool even in the heat with all 4 sides having windows and bug mesh.

Can be a little annoying to get level on a track but i just carry some ramps made out of decking off cuts.

Yes can be mounted on a tray above the tub. OverlandNZ on youtube and insta has a hilux set up like that. Good if you don't need the tub.

If it was just me and not the lady friend i would probably just carry a swag and stretcher, and have a bigger awning out the side so it doesn't get covered in dew or rain. But she likes the space and the comfort so thats all good.

Cheers

I think Ranal has got the right idea, by having a setup that makes taking it off and on as easy as possible.

They are a great idea for places like Africa, where there so many nasties wanting to make your acquaintance at night. But you certainly want to have the right roofrack setup. Not sure how many 'modern' utes have several hundred kg roof rack specifications these days?

My gawd am I glad I'm not so cynical!

Just imagine all the fun you've been missing... Gentle breeze, beautiful sunset, cozy bedding, hot chick, the amazing view... scenery wasn't bad either!

Jesus I might be tempted to sell the children just to time travel back to those days. Shit did I say that out loud?

Yours is solid as anything. And incredibly, yes, rivets!

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Even I wouldn't put rivets through my roof. And hope that 7 rivets each side will hold. On that note, just got an air pop rivet gun...best tool ever.

Gesipa battery rivet gun is way better


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Yep a battery one would be handy but wanted to expand tools to run off the compressor.

Night time pee's in the tent are not so big an issue. I have an opaque Nalgene bottle, a good wide mouth to drop into and fill it up.
I've suggested to the Mrs to get She-Wee so she doesn't have to go out either.