Best Roof Top Tent

OK, so I’m ready to buy one and don’t want to make any purchases I’ll regret later. Will be used by two or three adults.

I watched this:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzSl2dZicy8&app=desktop

and really like the racks he’s using since I don't want to have to store a big complicated rack system when I’m not using the tent.

My question to all you experienced guys is, if you had to buy another RTT which would it be? I would like a good quality, comfortable, dry and durable tent that I won’t have to worry about constantly repairing don the road. Willing to spend a little more if the money spent is worth what you get for it. My main wants are comfort/usability, and durability.

Saw some reviews on the Smittybuilt tent but couple complained about the durability of the zippers and such.

Any help would be really appreciated. I need to pull the trigger as I have some plans.

Also any preference/thoughts on roof rack vs. bed rack placement would be appreciated as well...

Thanks!

 

Anyone??

 

Post in here. Its depending on your budget and the style that you want too

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-rtt-owners-thread-with-bs.312269/page-973#post-21262041

 

Noting wrong with our Smittybilt RTT, it has held up fine after a month’s worth of camping over a year and a half. Zippers are all good too. The black cover takes a beating if you drive a lot, had to do some repairs where it rubbed the ladder.

I have it ip on a Prinsu cabrack as my shell is a high topped ARE MX, else a RTT on a rack on that or on a bedrack would be good too.

 

I think at least 75% of all RTTs are made in the same Chinese factory, so they are very similar in all but logo. That may challenge someone to suggest a “best” one, since the were all made in the same place, with the same design and materials.

 

There must be some design aspects that make one better than another? Maybe cooler or warmer. Dryer or more airy, easier access, more room, etc...

Can’t imagine they’re all identical.

 

I would cash out for a nice hardshell RTT!!

 

I just saw a post you made where you were mentioning that most people that buy one regret it a short time later due to mold issues in wetter climes?

Certainly don’t have that issue most of the time where I’m at but I do plan on visiting areas where rain is possible if not likely.

 

I could do that. Hadn’t looked into that option. This is why I need help...

 

Best rtt is one that keeps you dry, is built well, and doesnt cost a whole heck of a lot. The Smittybilt is that rtt, IMO. I've been using it for 3 years now without so much as a hickup. Its kept me bone dry in sideways rain and always deploys with no issues. That's my vote.

 

^^^this for flip over style RTT’s, as it seems that the base, hinges, frame and hardware stays the same, but I think materials do differ.

 

I compared my buddy’s ARB-branded one to a CVT, and a couple no-name tents in the group of different brands I can’t remember. All four had different logos, and fabric colours, but were exactly the same....right down to the zippers and poles. Maybe that was just coincidence? I dunno.

 

Hmmm, interesting. Something to consider for sure... thanks.

 

The hard-shells are small, the fold over ones double their base size and have a much higher roof across most of the base, just since you mentioned three adults keep that in mind. We sleep three too.

 

Most outdoor enthusiast folk I know are now starting to move away from RTTs towards the new designs of stand-alone ground tents. There is too many disadvantages to RTTs in a rainy climate, and in general, but that’s a topic for another post.

The best purchase I ever made was a Gazelle Hub Tent. That’s a product that delivered more than I even imagined. Fantastic product.

 

I am in the same boat and pretty set on the CVT brand. The customer service is what sold me. They are great people to work with. If you want a hardshell that has space then look at the Ikamper.

 

No that’s exactly what this thread is for. Educate me whether good or bad. If there are better options out by all means there let me know please...

I like the idea of RTT’s because it keeps you off the ground where the nasty critters are. Much easier to get the wife out with that plus in the pro’s column.

 

I want the biggest one I can get within reason by the way.

 

Overland Pros Anza 1400 Extreme. Been very happy with it:

http://www.overlandpros.com/index.php/product/anza-1400-extreme-edition/

 

as others have alluded, most are similar so while people may be true to "their" brand there are many similarities. I have a Tepui, which is very similar to CVT. Look at the differences in fabric thickness in both the tent and rain fly - lightweight material makes for a lighter tent, but also may be more vulnerable to damage. Look at the diameter of the tubing that makes the frame - thicker tubing is more durable, but again it weighs more. Some have telescoping ladders (which I personally prefer as I weigh more than I should), some have extending ladders.

Different models have other nice features. I have an extended version which allows me to climb down the ladder in the rain and not have water run off the top down my back. It also has a wonderful annex that attaches and provides enough room for 4 people and a dog easily. Some used to have thicker bottoms which are less prone to damage when folded closed (think low tree branches), and newer models have clear panels in the roof for stargazing.

Personally, if you think you'll use it regularly I'd aim for one of the brands that uses thicker materials. If you are just using occasionally, one of the lighter ones may be the best solution.

FWIW, my biggest problem has been condensation, especially camping in the winter. After picking up an anti-condensation mat, which did help keep condensation off the bottom of the mattress and tucked in sheets, I finally picked up an inexpensive rechargeable clip on fan which worked wonders. On the low setting it's enough to run for 8-10 hours, and I can recharge off a USB outlet in the truck bed during the day.

Lastly, as with any tent, if you get rained on, you gotta get it open and dry as soon as possible. These things will mildew quickly. Every spring I take mine down, wash it and put a coat of 303 on it and it's been flawless in some really crappy rainy conditions.