That's exactly what I was doing. And as I laid down in my really high quality $300 backpacking tent I looked up at my RTT that cost 4 times as much, sucked my MPG, and made me top heavy and thought, "Why the hell am I dragging that around? My whole point enjoying camping is simplifying life. Why not just bring the one tent that does everything, instead of also hauling a heavier and more expensive tent that isn't as versatile?
It’s like this: buy the gear you like, keep the gear you love, upgrade the gear you no longer care for, and respect that people will always have different opinions.
*Our lumber-racked F250 work truck is a great budget camping platform. We use a few sheets of pre-drilled 1/4 inch marine plywood and zip ties to create a rooftop platform onsite (too windy to drive with it) and throw two two man tents up there. With D rings bolted to the plywood for the stake points total setup is 12 minutes and I don't have to put up with my 17yo son farting all night in the same tent.*
Thanks for this. This is the kind of straight-talk you don't get about most overlanding stuff because everyone is secretly trying to sell you something through affiliates. I appreciate the honesty.
I've been doing the RTT thing for six years, ten to 20 trips per year. Everything he says in this video is true. It's very tough to find a level spot (for your car) that is also a spot you want to be. Half of Explore Southwest's issues would be solved with a hard shell RTT though. Ease of opening and closing is more important than weight, aerodynamics, cost, or anything else. It's also supremely important to pick a tent that will store ALL your nighttime gear when closed. (blankets, pillows, and everything else). Another important point is to make sure that your hard shell tent only has latches on one side or one end....not both. Latches on all sides is twice as much jumping up and down on your bumpers to both open and close the tent. And, the weight of a "convenient" RTT, awning, and all the other stuff is going to ruin the way your vehicle drives and ruin your gas mileage. It's a very bad idea to build one of these rigs on your daily driver. Just the way it is. :(
I hear you but there are always solutions. The rig I’m building is for my ford f250 6.7 liter diesel. Fuel economy isn’t my issue and i made all the gear including the tent easily removed and put into storage so if I won’t be camping for a month my daily is back to normal.
Only one I thought about here was the extra gas and the performance loss because of the loss of aerodynamics... Didn't think about the storage. Weight right now isn't too much or a consideration, I'm designing a full hard side and top RTT to be built out of foam board and carbon fiber. Good points on the latches too, I was going to do 2 on the opening side, but I'll probably cut it down to 1. Granted it's only going on my mini countryman and maybe my audi tt later on so height won't be an issue. Weight and performance are my main 2 concerns right now. Any thoughts on anything I should look into?
I put my rtt on a trailer i built for it to be the same exact height as my rig so i know it can clear anything my jeep will. If i cant find a level spot i use farm jacks on all four corners with ratchet straps holding them in place and max tracks under them. 6x4 trailer, i can move it around by hand even on a pretty decent slope.
Also incase i dint feel like popping the tent i just carry a throw out tent that pops out instantly and a hammock. At all times incase im feeling lazy lol.
I've been camping in the shell of my truck for 20 years now. My camp is always set up, doesn't flap in the wind, and is secured and lockable. I also have three backpacking tents for going places on my atv or hiking. Total cost....$350. The shell came free with the truck.😄
I specifically measured out the length of my truck bed before I bought it with the intention of getting a shell and building a "mini camper" in it I could sleep on. But a new quality shell is expensive and that's when I got the idea of using an RTT. But your idea is literally what I was going for and I ended up with the RTT as a similar alternative. Turns out I don't think it was a good alternative.
yeah back of SUV works for me. Put all the camping equip in the roof box. I mean how much crap do you need on a camping trip. I wouldn't want to live that way.
Hmm $150 for a tent on the ground, or $2k so you can sleep 6 feet off the ground, tough one. My 87' Toyota van that I sleep in all time is probably worth $2k lol.
These are all great points. I have a Roofnest on top of a 2012 Subaru Outback. All of these points in this video are correct. However, The 120 lbs roof capacity weight is “dynamic weight”. That is for when the car is in motion. The “static weight” for when the car is parked should be 600 - 800 lbs. So your car/truck can still handle the weight of anything extra than 120 lbs when parked.
As a hunter and camper who strictly goes out in the middle of nowhere, rooftop tents are amazing. I also tow a trailer with my quad which is what I use to get around. If you’re going to spend the money, spend a little more and get a hard shell.
This guy honestly just bought the wrong tent. My tent setup time is less than 2 minutes. I can pack up and move spots in less than 1 minute. My tent was half the price and Way more convenient.
I am a life-long camper. I have never considered a rooftop tent for one reason: I have no doubt that, the first or second night I used it, I would get up in the middle of the night needing to pee, and while still 2/3 asleep, I would walk off the roof. The cost alone would be a deal breaker for me. I don't remember whay I paid for my current car camping ground tent, which is roomy well-made, now several years old and holding up well, but I'm sure it was less than $200. The fact that you can't go anywhere in your vehicle without breaking it down and setting it back up, as mentioned in the video, is another serious drawback for me.
As an Australian, im buying a trailer with an RTT. Leaves the tow vehicle to be a very decent daily, lets you base camp and be fairly mobile, keeps you off the ground. Also crocs are only common in certain parts of Australia, its the snakes and spiders that you need to worry about. Sure you are a bit limited as a result, but its not so bad
Finally, an Overlander that can stand on his own two feet. Many of us appreciate you not trying to keep up with the Joneses and dishing out the truth! Keep up the good work. Awesome video!
I absolutely love my 23zero RTT. Cost of the tent was a little over 1200.00 when I bought it and the rack was 750.00 so yes roughly 2000.00 total. To be honest though mine is canvas and a good canvas ground tent is going to run about 1400.00. Because of the tear down requirement in order to go somewhere eventually mounted it on a trailer 750.00 from TSC and that gave me the ability to store all my camping stuff under the tent like you do in your truck. Set up and tear down are not as easy as the you tube video show but easier than my old ground tent in my opinion. For remote camping I honestly can't beat it at that price. I am very happy with my tent purchase and would do it again.
Thanks for the candid opinion. The RTT I was considering is only 80lbs, clam shell design that sets up/down much quicker, mounts on my existing pickup ladder rack (not a roof rack), and costs $1500. I decided the versatility of using my camping hammock or being able to sleep in the pickup topper remains the best solution by far. Gee, I can build another nice PRS rifle instead ;-).
@@MuskratOutdoors I have a small utility trailer and I've thought about making a panelled box that could be bolted on to it. Possibly that could collapse a little. It wouldn't be quite a popup but related. I did have a popup but we got rid of it because of space issues.
@@chaos.corner I thought about that also, but couldn't really think of a design that would work. If you do make one, please let me know! I would love to see it. There is a need for compact, small campers for two adults. A good design might make a lot of money!
@@MuskratOutdoors It depends what you're looking for. For my size of trailer, it would basically be just for sleeping. Though it would also be good for storage. I was actually thinking of it from my old job because sometimes you just need some peace and quiet away from all the noise.
I agree with everything said, but I am sticking with my RTT - here's why. I am a life long back packer but my wife came to camping as an adult and was never comfortable sleeping on the ground. She didn't feel safe and spent all night listening to every sound and worrying. So camping was not fun for her. Sleeping up high on top of our FJ she feels safe. Sleeping in blankets and sheets vs a sleeping bag - she sleeps better. Now she enjoys camping! I went hard shell so setup and teardown is about the same as a ground tent. I bought a used to save money. It's a Roof Nest and is quieter and darker than our ground tent. The occasional midnight relief trip is less of an issue than I thought it would be. Thanks for the great videos. We share the same camping ethics and I appreciate you talking about it. Stay on the trail and leave no trace!
I was thinking of an RTT. My wife is iffy about it. I then looked at adventure trailers...if I am towing I may as well get a teardrop with a real bed. Then I saw the Roofnest Sparrow? I think. It is on my list. But I am still not sold on the RTT. Your points make me think again.
I have mine on a 5x8 utility trailer. Very light and low cost. If the side gets scraped no big deal. I have the annex and put a porta potty in there for the wife. It's no Hampton Inn but that's the fun of it.
Get a dog you will sleep like a log anywhere ! They Love acting as security besides they will thank you for not sleeping in a tent where they can’t climb a ladder to....Millennials ugh 🤦🏼♂️
I have a large 23zero rtt, your points are great. Especially levelling and campsites where you park separate from the site. But I really don't want to camp anywhere away from my vehicle since so much other gear/ supplies then need to be hauled to and from that I avoid those sites anyway. But I'd like to add that the bed racks people purchase often aren't rated for the static weight loaded onto them. My tent holds four people and weighs close to 200lbs, with people I'm often over 1000 pounds. I ride behind trucks and see the racks having a noticeable shimmy. Just looks like a tragedy waiting to happen. My point is that your investment in the bed rack has to be as well researched as the tent you buy. I welded mine from 1/8" rectangle. I would visit a fabrication shop before buying a bolted together bed rack made of 1/16" plate. Just my thoughts.
The feeling of safety is a good reason to ignore "rational" arguments. You could argue until you are blue in the face that a ground tent is as safe as a roof top tent, but that doesnt escape the fact that she feels better and sleeps better in a roof top tent. In your case a RTT is the right choice for you because a good nights sleep is very important.
Refreshing to see a very real take on something like this. Not to say that other people can’t love these or that this is the universally correct opinion, it’s just great to see some contrast so that people can consider the cons and make informed decisions.
I 1000% am getting into this and was thinking of getting one of these. Everything you said would drive me crazy. Will not be getting one. Thank you. Great work
I have had All of my overland buddies tell me how cool they are. But the money and weight on top of my 5th gen 4runner I just can't justify that when I can get a cot, pad and gazelle for a 1/4. But to each there own too.
I must be one of the only dissenters because I really enjoy my RTT which I purchased new for under $900 (which is still probably too expensive for what you get). I do agree with point #2 that it makes you immobile, and that it can be noisy in wind. The immobility is probably what I would view as the biggest downside. Otherwise, it has been great. It's easy to set up with no blood spilled, and I've never had a problem getting the vehicle leveled enough using logs or stones under a tire or two. It has provided many good night's sleep on quite a few outings so far. So, maybe they're not for everybody, but they're not all bad either.
@@43cdb No real impact on speed. I still drive pretty normally. About a 12-15% reduction in fuel economy depending on conditions. It's on a Jeep Wrangler in my case. So, mileage is terrible to begin with. I definitely notice that it is up there while off-road. Nothing scary, but you can tell that the center of gravity is a little higher. I'm willing to bet if I mounted it over my F-150 bed instead (staying low) that it wouldn't have any impact at all.
yakima skyrise here and love it very much, I use rainfly only when I need to and I can set it up in 1 min or two. It sucks not being able to move, but I mainly bought it for overlanding trips, so no big issue there.
I spent $45 total for both of my old school military shelter half’s. After 15 years it’s still in perfect condition and not a single hole. Canvas is extremely durable material. Why fix what ain’t broken?
I think that sentiment is the key point. An RTT is a "Solution" to a problem that never existed. Mountain men traveled all over the country with a horse and a bed roll. It's not like we were incapable of camping until RTTs came along. They just overcomplicate something that didn't need to be complicated in the first place.
@@shibblesshalzabot6320 Brotherman, I’ve seen it from the inside out.... and I couldn’t agree with you anymore knowing the goat roping that was going on a bit ago...
I love that campsite! Another issue: It is harder to show occupation of your campsite. A number of first come first serve campsites require you leave stuff on the site to show it is occupied. As soon as you drive off, there is nothing reserving the site. “Tent on site” is the universal sign showing the site is occupied. You don’t have that option.
We have a stand alone awning, actually we have two, one we attach to the side of our van, one to the back, neither take long to put up, so we have loads more room than we had with our pain in the arse tent with all its fidgety carbon poles, the whole lot can be erected in a few minutes and we can drop the roof ten in less than a minute, put the cover on in two or three minutes. Leave the awning(s) up to mark our pitch and come back later.
@@trvsball ya they could, but most people will respect it, and if it's secluded and you put it at the entrance most people won't even go down to check if you're there 😁
It's true. Everything has its positive and negative. I think if you get a rooftop tent anticipating that it will be appropriate for some situations but not all (in the same way you might find more use with a truck and cabover camper than a class A or vice versa) then you will know its limitations and be able to plan accordingly.
@zoom zoom they both have their positives and negatives. It all depends on when, where, and how you do your camping, really. A heavily insulated tent with a memory foam bottom for comfortable sleeping in cold weather is difficult to carry around on your back. A trailer is great for hauling your gear until you get into a tight spot and need to back out.
@@Russianmafia10 you can get a decent one for 1000 . Most of these tents are made in 2-3 different factories in china , just like his brand , couple different features and price bump
Thanks for the honest review. I was on the fence about buying one. All of your points are valid to me. I’ll stay on the ground (been doing it for years) and save the rack for additional gear.
One important topic you forgot to mention. I don't know too many of the over 60 crowd, especially if you're carrying a few extra pounds, who go through the entire night without having to take a trip to the toilet. With a roof top tent this is difficult, especially if you're over 60 and carrying a few extra pounds. That's why I camp in a class A.
not only this, but who goes camping and doesn't have some type of alcoholic drink, or other... and getting up a ladder, when you might not be coherent enough to even remember you have a tent, is going to be an interesting challenge lol
This is why camping in a campervan is far superior. Nothing to do but "turn the van ignition key on or off" . You have a toilet , kitchen, sink, bed etc immediately available. It does matter what the weather is, rain or shine, hot or cold. Your investment in a van and conversion cost can total no more than the cost of a quality pick up, or RV, and a roof top tent
I guess I should have read further down on the comments. 90% of my camping is now in the RV and I pull my Jeep where as in the past it was about 50%. You’re so right, some of us are into multiple nighttime excursions. I tell my younger friends that I’d probably forget I was in a rooftop and go splat on the ground at night!
I liked seeing a different perspective. I just bought one that takes a minute to setup and about 5 to tear down. If I’m leaving camp I bring my tent anyway because I’m not leaving all my gear for someone to steal so I’d rather have it with me.
@@jacobwhite9006 I did. It’s the ikamper sky camper mini. It sets up so fast. I got it at rei at a garage sale so it was half off and they’re normally 3,500 bucks. After having this for a month there are a few points I disagree with that this guy made Leveling your truck for your tent is awesome. There were so many spots that were on slopes that having a ground tent would have never worked with. Leveling is not a con Camp set up and tear down does take time. But that happens anyway. If you want to be fast or pickup camp to take sunrise pictures there’s nothing stopping you from bringing a ground tent. They’re really comfortable. Or at least mine is anyway. Inn the end it depends what you’re using it for. My wife and I are trying to save money on hotels when we do our 40 mile hikes in random places. I made an awesome hot water system and it’s already paying for itself. I feel like it’s a camper trailer with none of the negatives of towing a trailer
Years ago I worked in a off-road shop and we used to install the hard shell rooftop tents all the time. Everyone that had 1 installed loved it. They're easy to set up and easy to take down, takes about 2 minutes. Problem solved with not being able to drive around. And as of today they cost around $2000.
Have been camping for over 30 years in just about everything. Yah, that whole getting up in the middle of the night to pee thing....watch out for that first step! The RTT cool stopped there for me. Have a Tacoma with a canopy, put a plywood platform over the top of the wheel wells. Lots of storage underneath in totes, queen-sized bed on the top. Has worked really well for us. Put a clamshell shelter at the back that can remain in place to back into if you need more cover. Many of those points can also apply to camper van vs. camping trailer. As much as I don't care for towing something, can drop the trailer, level it, leave it and still have 4WD to go explore
Great point. Who wants to climb down a ladder to take a whiz? I was sure he would mention that in the video. I considered the RTT option but instead I spent a fifth of the money for a quick setup 9-man tent with a screen room, a queen size air mattress, a portable toilet and shower. I can use them all without leaving the tent, and have room to stand up and change clothes as well. If you want to bring a woman and not make her hate it, this is the way to go.
Pee bottle lol I'm putting attempt up in back of the truck for close to 30 years not all the time but if it's raining or snowing it sure is nice to get off the ground. Then if you want to move somewhere just have to pull the rods out of the tent pockets let it drop down with the bags and everything inside. It also has air shocks on all four corners. Can also control each shock independently. My Bush plane is a different story. have a tent that Clips up underneath one of the Wings and then some. But we can stand completely up in it. even has a 2 gal water tank in the wing so we can take a shower. And have a no-see-um screen that goes up under the other wing. 2 gal water tank in that wing also for doing dishes and putting out the campfire. Yes it's an experimental plane I designed and built myself. And all that stores in the belly pod.
I have a Roofnest sparrow that I’ve been using for 2 years, on top of my 2015 Jeep Patriot. I absolutely love it. I keep my bedding and pillows up there and a fan. I have LED strips inside and my Jackery powers it all. It’s ready to go 100% of the time. I grab my camping totes and hit the roads to the mountains. It’s worth the $$ for me. It’s in perfect shape still and sometimes I take my Weenie dog camping and he loves it too. They’re not for everyone. But I’m a big fan.
I'm about to buy the Sparrow XL. You have to spend money if you want a great experience. The rooftop tent in this video looks cheap so that's probably why this guy had a bad experience. I hear Roofnest is one of the best in terms of quality. "Expensive", but worth it.
Great video. I love my RTT and would never give it up. But every point you made is totally valid. Def great pointing out the things that people need to consider before purchasing RTT’s. Most of the guys I know are now building small trailers to put the RTT on to alleviate a lot of the issues. That of course has its own issues lol. But we’ll done video 👍
When I saw the title of your video, I was pretty skeptical. I have been considering a RTTS despite the very high cost. I have some questions, though, and honestly the videos that I have been looking at were not answering those questions. ALL the I have been watching have been sponsored by the tent manufacturers, so I assumed they were probably not giving me the whole story. But they did a great job of promoting the highlights, and those were pretty close to convincing me to pull the trigger and get one. Now, this EXTREMELY comprehensive video has opened my eyes. Most of your complaints don't apply. You and I camp very differently, and a lot of what irritates you wouldn't bother me. That's fine because you were able to point out those details in such a way that I could ignore them. But there were a few others, details about which I had unanswered questions, that you covered in such a way that they answered almost all my concerns. As a result, I am no longer considering a RTTS. So I thank you for your frank and articulate review and for saving me a shit-ton of money.
i've always just assumed roof top tents were really just for mall cruisers. I had no idea people actually ever used them. theres always an un-used winch and a brand new hilift jack with it too. seems like people just buy them so they can have the gas station conversation about it.
As someone who frequents ATV trails in my Rubicon (don't ask 😅) Rooftop tents are definitely not just a gimmick. They are quick to set up/ take down and I can park in standing water if I really wanted and walk around the body of my Jeep to set up the tent without ever putting a foot to the ground... 😁 There are a lot of places not made for a ground tent or where I at least don't want to clear the ground
I have a hard shell roof top tent that is quick to setup and take down and the bedding all fits inside, so that helps, plus it doesn’t stick out past either side of the vehicle. Doors on both sides of the tent and I have a Honda trail 90 on a back hitch for adventuring around away from camp, and I take a normal tent with me if I don’t want to deal with the roof top or want to camp somewhere I can’t park. 🤷♂️ I think a lot of these complaints are specific to your tent and needs, but I totally get your points. Thanks for making this though, definitely some good info.
I never understood the whole “gotta get off the ground” RV crowd. Then I went camping with my neighbors. Their aversion to ground tents seems to be based on years of crappy Walmart grade tents poorly setup that will of course leak/flood in bad weather. They were quite shocked how dry my good marmot tent stayed when we had a rainy night. It’s seems they never consider mid range actual good gear (and learning how to set it up properly) they go for the cheapest tent, get frustrated with it then go for a big RV/rooftop rig.
@FloEvans I have had a Walmart/Academy (I don't remember) $100.00 tent for 17 years. We use it at least once a month. My kids grew up using it. We have been on all kind of weather. Is not meant for cold/snow weather, but we learned to make it work. The tent looks still like new, except a little hole on the floor due to a burn. You just have to know how to use it and care for it.
The roof top tent is very popular in Africa because our wildlife has a tendency of up rooting standard ground tents. My uncle was dragged of his ten by a lioness after it had ripped through a side wall, a Ranger eventually has to come down and shoot the lion to get it off my uncle, and he is a very large man. Then a friend of my father was dragged out of his tent by a lion who only managed to grab the bottom end of his sleeping bag, so he was able to slip out and climb a tree. My other friend wasn't so lucky. I lion attacked and took him away when he was sitting with 6 other people around the camp fire. Unfortunately the lion ate him for dinner. But this is Africa, it why we live here. If the door of your ground tent is not secure the hyena will get in and bite off your face or ears. And elephants, oh fuck ! Too many experiences with those guys !!!
I admit that RTT's look cool as hell but I'll never own one. Peeing at night as a major event. Raises CG and effects handling of vehicle. A topper on a pickup has been the best I've found in 60 years of camping.
Do you pee in your topper or do you still get out of it? A few more ladder steps are not really a bigger deal than popping down your tailgate and getting out of your topper.
That 120 pounds of weight a car roof can take, according to the Toyota rep I talked to, refers to "dynamic" (traveling at speed) weight not "static" weight (parked, standing still) which is approx. 3 times more. Big difference. Btw... great vid!
I agree with you on all of your points. I sold my Yakima RTT after 4 years of using it and switched back to a ground tent (gazelle) with sleeping cot. I can have it set up as quick as my RTT if not quicker and I don't have to pack it if I leave the campground. One negative point I'd like to add is getting up to the bathroom at night (yes, some of us have to do it once or twice every night). It was a royal pain to climb the ladder half asleep, especially in the rain. For me the biggest negative was driving with the tent when I was not using it, pretty much entire spring, summer and fall. At first I would take it off when not in use but it became too much hustle and I just left it on, which limited my truck bed space. Thanks for this review, I really enjoyed it.
Yeah, think I’d rather crash in the back seat of the cab or have a regular or extended cab with a long bed and a raised top shell over the bed. At least the latter would allow for dry storage and could be insulated if so desired.
the manufacturers maximum roof load only really matters for as long as youre driving. higher centre of gravity = worse handling, duh when stationary, most cars can handle over 5 times of their maximum declared roof-load-capacity without an issue. people are putting 40kg rooftents on their VW up! in combination with 7kg mounts theyre staying below the max capacity of 50kg for that car. and the roof aint folding up! once theyre getting in. even with company (lets say all together 240kg). just keep in mind that the load should be mounted on the door-frames and not in the centre of the roof.
i don't doubt this man, anyone that can properly use the word "crestfallen" in casual convo is someone I can trust ..i wouldn't get one simply because i don't need to be climbing down steps at 3am just to take a piss..
There's enough monkey in a reasonably fit human being for that ladder to be no hardship. But it looks like an accident waiting to happen, especially in the middle of the night when you're just awake enough to empty your bladder. I'm not a big drinker, but the most likely place and time for me to drink beer is on one of those trips out in the woods. I want my camp pretty safe and easy to navigate. That bit about not being able to situate yourself ideally to take advantage of (morning) shade can be a big factor. Maybe you're an early riser and seeing the sun come up is one of the highlights of your trip. @Explore Southwest is taking pictures of dawn and sunset, so he's up before the heat is a factor. He just mentions it sort of in passing, as an issue in a parking lot. One of the things I like about trips is I can decide to sleep in if I want. Some people aren't wired like that. I am. And I'll set up drinking beers and swapping lies until everybody else has gone to bed, and I'll enjoy the fire and my thoughts all by my lonesome. Maybe even make a coffee, because it's the thing I most crave at that moment, and stay up to see the sun come up THAT way! LOL!
This was good to know. I was thinking i liked the fold out roof tents more than the hard top because they have more room. But now I'm thinking the hard tops are better sealed, quicker setup, and that small lack of room might be worth it.
Yeah if you're going with an RTT I think the hard top ones aren't sulerior, unfortunately like all things that also means there is a price increase to go along with it.
@ReasonablySkeptic - it’s not the style of RTT that’s important, design and build quality are the most important as are materials used. A cheap unit of either may not be as well designed or built as a more costly option of either. But it could be a good way to enter the game to know what works and doesn’t work for you - or what to look for in your next purchase if you decide this is for you. Several of the issues mentioned have work-arounds. If you know you’re going to base camp you can create a setup where your RTT can be removed and transported to a ground site for the duration of your stay - your vehicle is the accessible for those sunrises, sunsets and restaurants? (Who goes camping to go to a restaurant that’s not a pub on the way to camp?). Alternatively a set of legs could be made like those for the slide on/off camper to help remove it from the top of your vehicle. Everything is a compromise of some sort. The use of a car Jack can be an easy way to level your vehicle rather than trying to find that level spot by moving your vehicle around heaps in how to find that levelled feeling you want. It’s not always achievable either, same for a ground tent or swag sometimes. One good thing about the RTTs not mentioned is the cross breezes you get in summer that helps cool the tent, I always liked hat in our Australian summer heat. The clam shell design worked well for us and was the best before kids. Now we’re in swags but that’s getting too painful so we’re back looking for a clamshell RTT for the car and a hard top RTT for the camper trailer for ease of setup and pack up. Also worth mentioning that in some parts of Australia tents and swags are not allowed in some areas and finding a caravan park that allows them can be difficult too. We experienced this along the east coast of Oz from NSW to southern QLD. Not much fun had chasing a camp space we could legally stop off at and use. Anything ground tent-able was a short hike down a track we didn’t want to walk. That got away from me! I hope it was useful to someone!
Exactly what I did, also I feel like I don't have 1/2 the issues with my FSR that he does with the Tepui, I do understand the concerns for sure though, trailer for life!
@@BabaYaga_Beatz I have an offroad tent trailer with a deck on the front. It can be a little long but it's no longer than my truck. We absolutely love it. Easy to tow, quick to set up. Prefer it over a small travel trailer.
Man, I am sorry you have had such a bad time with your RTT. I have owned an ARB RTT for a little over three years and a good number of these issues seem to be brand specific; as I have not had those issue in mine. Now they are slower to setup, it does limit the use of the vehicle when they are setup, but other than that, I have had a very different experience with mine. I regularly keep two sheets (fitted and normal) three blankets (for those really cold nights) the default three inch mattress and a 2 inch memory foam mattress (for insulation and comfort) and a thick memory foam pillow, in my tent with no issues closing it up. After three years of using it almost every weekend (will camp in the ski resort overflow lot in the winter), I love mine and would not go back to ground tents unless I had to. And I did years of backpacking before I moved into overlanding. Also, whenever I do have to camp in normal camp grounds, I usually will get an RV spot (level and pull through) or I make sure that the spots are pull up and not walk up. I hope you experience gets better. After all, we are all out here to enjoy the outdoors.
@@johnnytremain8017 New pop-up rooftop tents take about two minutes to set up or break down. Easy to do. Also, if your idea would be to "drive a car with the tent up - you can do that too - it's called a camper.
Great review. Really bloodly honest. Hard shell RTT are far better and faster and more expensive, but to most worth it. My son uses one and it works for him because he needs his tray to carry lots of tools, material and gear. Swags are very popular over here in the Land of Oz, but I don't use them. I either sleep on the ground under a tarp or a gazebo or I use my one pole canvas tent. It is 9 foot by 9 foot square and about 7 foot 6 high. I love it. You can stand up to get changed! One half is a double bed, the other, changing and your gear! If the weather is a little inclement, (pissing down raining), stay inside, cook, read a book, get on your phone if you must. You guys really need to learn about the beauty of old school canvas tents! My first one died at 33 years of age (I inherited it). But that was because of a material fault in the floor. My next two (an extra for guests) And you don't fall that far getting into your tent when your pissed! Hope that helps. Cheers.
I agree with some of these points but I also really really like being up off the ground. Putting a RTT on a small trailer seems to solve many of your cons in having one.
@@glennbeadshaw727 because an rpod is completely different beast. they are a huge jump in price and most importantly, weight. i can also carry 2 hard kayaks underneath a rooftop tent. i can also take my trailer on roads/trails an rpod can only dream of.
I appreciate the brutal honesty of this video, and will likely buy one anyway. I already tow an ATV on a utility trailer. The plan is to build a rack for the trailer and keep the tent up there. This will address the biggest issues. One thing he didn’t address with ground tents is lumpy and uneven ground. Hard to level the truck or trailer, but brutal for a ground tent.
I purchased the roofnest falcon because of the set up time. When I camp I can fully set up and close down my tent in around 3 minutes or less. The tent has great ventilation and I love the benefits of being raised up as a barrier against wild life.
it might take you only 3 mins or less to set up the tent, but to truly camp, you set up all your gears in the tent to make it homey as well. I can't imagine to take everything out and everything back in just so i can fold the tent away so I can leave the camp site. unless you just set up the tent in 3 mins and sleep in there with nothing in there... I mean it takes more than 3 min to just inflate and deflate the air mattress or whatever sleeping pad system you have lol.
@@lixmos make it homie? A RTT is for seeping. Not hosting a dinner party. I can get out of my vehicle, pop 2 latches, push up the top and get out the ladder and be in bed in 2 minutes. Pack up is about the same time. All in all, I can set up/pack down my entire camp (RTT, awning, couple of chairs and a table and BBQ) in under 10 minutes. I can pull up and be in bed in 2 minutes. Honestly, camping is about being outside in nature, fresh air and the sights. A tent is just somewhere to sleep. As long as it’s warm, dry and comfortable.
Honestly as janky as it seems, I bought a 6’ x 10’ enclosed trailer and added a mesh door, some removable carpet and an air mattress and it worked perfect. Just bring accessories like an awning and you will have plenty of room to store stuff on the go and lock it up if you want to leave.
I went with a quick setup hub style ground tent for most of the reasons you stated. I've been off roading / camping for decades and we usually use our campsite as a "base camp". The thought of constant setup and tear down never made sense to me. It also cracks me up when people use "you're more secure from wildlife"....having spent hundreds of nights in the woods, I've never had an issue that couldn't be solved by a bit of yelling and arm waving...lol. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I opted for a hard shell and I don’t know how anyone does a soft shell. It takes me 2 minutes to fully set up mine (two poles) and I added a level to my roof rack lol. These are all very valid points especially the if you want to go somewhere part. I trailer my rzr so it works wel for me. I just take the rzr wherever I want to go. If you don’t have a second vehicle you may want to use a trailer setup
I'm getting a soft top cuz it's easier for me to convert from camping to cargo with it more so than having to figure out how I'll remove and store a hardtop by myself at my apartment
@@Shuturulsdad I’ve got a friend that did that for that reason, come to find out his particular soft shell weighs more than my mt Washington does! Takes 2 people to remove mine (180*) but it’s really not bad. I’ve got a tundra with a bed rack so I haven’t noticed much loss in cargo space. Mine also has a roof rack on top that helps with storing kayaks and paddle boards but I think it’s limited to 150lbs or so
@@clayboy_20 I have the new inspired overland hardtop/softtop rtt it’s amazing 87 pounds I can throw it on my ford 6.7 all by myself. The soft tops are too much work and don’t cost any less
Friend of mine loves his. His issue is mold developed especially when damp weather at time of close up. Hassle when have to open up to dry out at home, cleaning included.
As someone that entirely hammock camps, I like the idea of a roof top tent. The hammock I use for all the spots I want to camp. The roof top tent I can use almost any day at the beach when I go surf. I could just camp out I’ve right and go surf. Difficult to find a level spot and obviously the spot you can park your truck/rig is not always where you wanna camp.
For me the worst part is how it negatively impacts the gas mileage, height, handling, wind noise, and center of gravity of the vehicle itself. I have an expensive hardshell RTT and am already having second thoughts after one season. Unfortunately a ground tent isn’t a great option in dusty desert environments where your stuff gets covered in dust/sand if the wind picks up, and I can’t use my hammock most of the time because suitable trees are lacking in much of the Southwest. Sleeping in the vehicle may be the best solution.
3rd season with an RTT, and I couldn’t agree more! I just got back from a 3500 mile road trip, New England to Florida via Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Heading out to a trailhead? Pack it up. need more ice in the cooler? Pack it up. Because of this trip I’m now building an off-road trailer to put it on.
LOVE your honesty! I never thought they were a great idea. I know some people who put them on a trailer they tow, which helps, but you still deal with wind, the expense, dirt....not to mention the hassle for those of us who take frequent trips to the bathroom at night.
For the price of a RTT on a trailer, you can buy a pop up trailer. Fridge, heat, stove, lights....all already there. Takes maybe 20 minutes to set up and take down.
Truth! You had us laughing out loud remembering our last trip on the White Rim trail... We are absolutely positive that the mice saw us diving up to our camp sites in our FJ and setting up their attack plans! Worse than any other wildlife we have ever encountered! They (mice in the camp grounds) have become trained to know "vehicles = food".
What a great evaluation from someone that does much more camping than I do, and thank you for touching on the responsible camping aspect, I’m an off-road person and always clean up trash around the area of my camp. I was contemplating the exact tent that’s on your truck, so glad to see this video. See you on the trail.
This is why I opted to build a camper conversion in the back of my SUV and put a cargo box on the roof, makes for a more comfortable and mobile experience.
Popups address many of the clamshell issues (single parking spot, no poles, no cover to manage, no rain fly, no holes for mice, etc.). We sold our clamshell quickly since the cumbersome aspects are solved for us with a camper too / popup setup. I think these are fair points to make! Clamshells aren’t the only type. Would be interested in your feedback on truck bed toppers/cap. We move from site to site, have fixed sink, fridge, etc inside and it’s functional.
I love seeing thoughtful, logical, articulate arguments that cut against the grain. Well-done. I hope your video is influential in at least helping people consider a different viewpoint when making a significant purchase. For what it is worth, when I had a truck, I had a nice shell on the back with a mattress on a platform. Plenty of storage under and beside the bed, quiet, secure, sliding windows and screens, and I could even crawl through the back window into the cab and drive off without going outside if I wanted to. They even make shells with little doors in them now, no need to crawl awkwardly out the back! Anyways, I look forward to seeing what your next camping setup might be. Thanks for the video!
When I was first shopping for a truck that was the setup I had in mind too; also planning on building out a sleeping space and storage like a little mini camper. That's why I made sure the bed of this truck was long enough for me to sleep in. But the price of bed cabs had me hold off on going that route, then I got distracted into going with the RTT.
@@exploresouthwest In addition to the truck-shell camper I've also been blessed to have a popup trailer and a Casita travel trailer. Both trailers have been great but I would be lying if I said I don't find myself nostalgic for the days I would just throw a few things into the back of my truck and hit the road. It was a simpler, more carefree way to travel.
True, but as long as it's tied to your truck. You'll always be limited to where and what your truck can do. A simple thing like finding shade in the desert where the tallest trees are 10ft is easy with a ground tent, hard with an RTT. My basic issue comes down to "What is the benefit that RTTs provide (and ground tents don't) that is worth $2000-$5000?"
Thats why in Australia alot of us get a jack off canopy that the rtt is connected to, so if u want to stay for a few days u jack the canopy off your tray(truck bed) and u have made camp and have four legs to level ur self up no problem. Kinda like the pcore trays (patriot campers) but thats at the high end, way cheaper options in oz
@@kjcorder check out pcore trays there an ozzy company that sell in the states but they are very expensive, alot more options of different suppliers over here
Thank you! I almost bought one cause I thought it looked cool and convenient, but you're right. The inconvenience of having to leave my vehicle parked if I want to use it during the day is an issue
I’ve had a Tepui for a couple of years now. I do like it, and also agree with most of your arguments. It works well for me because we take bikes. We tend to find a place in the woods to park, make a base camp, then take trips from there. But it’s a very particular use case.
Folks will overlook all sorts of functional downsides once they've committed a couple thousand into their Instagram ornament. I'm with you, longtime backpacker and car camper. For vehicle travel, my Gazelle T4 deploys faster than a soft roof top tent, cost less than $300, doesn't raise my center of gravity, hit the MPGs or cramp my itinerary like a RTT. You buy into a lot of consequential 'cons' for those $2000+.
Much appreciated video. I considered a rooftop tent, but have decided to frame up a cot inside my old Tahoe. Still have leveling and site issues, but I always have a backpacking setup with me for parking at the trailhead and heading out for a few days on trail. Pro tip for leveling is to use a clear water bottle like a smartwater bottle as a level. I do this on trail t be sure my head is above my feet.
I just back from Iceland 🇮🇸, My 4x4 had Roof top tent ( Autohome Columbus - Made in Italy- Fibreglass ) it’s close & become like suit case) just pull up to open or string down to close) We had no problem with it. It was so easy.
Got a partial solution. I grew up camping and have a 2024 Ruby4xe model X. I bought a Hatchet Overland camper. Expensive, but worth it. Attaches to roof so actually insulates for sound, heat, a/c. It goes up or down in 2 minutes, excellent airflow with fine screened windows. No lift-off since attaches to roof and sits in the gutters. Can leave bedding, pillows, comforter, 4 inch self inflating mattress (comes with it) up when closed. Speed and ease of opening and closing means You can open/ close many times per day. Circumferential velcro stops no see-ums and anything else that does not want to tear or chew thru marine grade canvas. The camper stays on top permanently and increases vehicle height to about 6’8”. Mileage decreases by 1.25 mpg. It is for folks who like to camp but are old, weak, less nimble, or just bone ass- lazy (I check all of those boxes). Even better the camper is accessed from inside the Jeep towards the back, is an easy climb, and allows u to stand up if u are under 7’ tall. This makes it easy to change clothes in any weather wash up, or even use your own version of a go-pro😅. Lots of room for travelling companion. Has an LCD light, USB plug, two deep trays for phone, glasses, or Glock. Room for two 200W solar panels on top and comes with solar panel atrachments and wiring. I think it needs more security in front, so I plan tie-downs to hood eyelets. Clamps would be better. Remember the pricey part, but the value is definitely there. I thought it was ideal for this solo long and short term rock crawler, overlander and camper.
I actually did stay in a rooftop tent in Africa, where there WERE lions and stuff roaming around... I didn't feel much safer just because I was a few feet off the ground in what amounted to a flimsy fabric box! You nailed it at the end.. rooftop tents are for Instagram only
Agreed. The San Francisco Zoo had two Big Cats jump over their enclosure barrier--which is a lot taller than that roof rack, and kill/ maul zoo visitors who were tormenting them. A thin piece of fabric isn't going to protect you even at rooftop height.
@Col Smith We used to camp on Rat Island (Cairns) as kids in scouts amongst the taipans and crocodiles in the 70's in old canvas tents. We didn't manage to lose anyone. But I notice last time I was up there the whole area was sign posted. I also used to walk to school uphill both ways...
@@Didewro Yes, UEV 490 is certainly a nice idea which would set you back at least $76K AUD (about $56K US). For the US audience I'd say, there are much cheaper options... LOL
Some people don't realize that instagram influencers are just people who personify advertisement. Influencers get free nice stuff from their friends who sell that kind of stuff in exchange for the advertising value. Any product seen on instagram is probably worse than it appears.
Have camped in the southwest/great basin region for 45 yrs. Once you set up camp your done. Throw out my Walmart tent. Boom done. Drive away. 29.99 tent lasted for years. Including my dogs ,cattle dog and shepherd they don't like ladders. How about camping under trees. Night time bathroom call, long way down. If it gets too cold sleep in the back of my lr3.
Thanks for the honest look at rtt. So many people on UA-cam just seem to be really rich influencers that get those tents for free so that they have to push these products on us. This video is a breath of fresh air.
Yep. When I got my first four-wheel drive, an '87 Suzuki Samurai that I bought new, I bought a surplus M-416 military cargo trailer to conquer having little cargo capacity in the vehicle. I still have the M-416, after having gone through: '89 Isuzu Trooper RS short-wheelbase; '73 Bronco; '87 Montero; '92 Cherokee 2DR; '87 Pathfinder; '98 Jeep TJ; 2007 4X4 Ranger, up to the 2004 Nissan Xterra I'm running now. That M-416 with it's pintle hitch arrangement will go everywhere the vehicle pulling it can, but it doesn't have to. I can tow it someplace, set up camp, and leave it where camp is, and go exploring in my vehicle without it, if I want to. I paid $750.00 for the trailer. Every time I have it out, someone offers to buy it from me, for a whole lot more than I paid for it. It's a zero-depreciation accessory. A roof-top tent probably isn't. I've been camping my entire life; camping in places one had to have high-clearance, low-range four-wheel drive to get to. I've made it 56 years with ground-pitched tentage and reckon to keep on getting by just fine with it, going forward.
We started using an rtt on our Expedition built Tacoma for camping and loved it at first. But we went full time in it in the winter of 2017 and it became quite a bit of work taking down and setting up every 3-5 days when we had to break down and refresh water tanks. The wind was a nightmare all night long flapping material. Rain, cold, etc... You don't need a tent to be level. It's great when it rains cause you don't have to put away a wet muddy tent. We ended up buying an All Terrain Warrior. Quite expensive but we lived in it full time traveling.
The thing I wonder about is drying the tent before moving for the day. When I used to car camp, a lot of times the tent was damp with dew in the morning and we would have to wait for the sun, or pack it up damp which wasn’t great. Seems like a big problem in a RTT.
This does happen. We have had dew on our tent plenty of times when we closed up. Never had mold. Just need to open it in the sun for 30 minutes within 24 hours is my rule. Hardshell tents pop right open, so it's not a issue at all to be able to fix the problem, even in a parking lot. Dew is more of a problem inside the tent because it's so thick. We sleep with a window open to fix that.
Mine is on a trailer so once I'm set up I'm free to drive around. The trailer has leveling jacks. When I don't carry my trailer I have a ground tent, several actually. I can afford all of it.
Thank you! As many ppl look into buying one of these and so was I. I no longer want one! Your arguments are so valid and convincing you will never see me put one of these on my car! Thanks again!
Not solely a roof top tent problem. Regular RV or a truck camper you still have to level the vehicle/jacks pop top open/sides put away everything that would move while driving every day. Trailer is sweet - more space maybe bathroom etc. But of course costs allot more (even the cheapest tiny teardrop costs 5x what this tent costs new vs new) and has all the driving issues (parking, reversing, u-turn, and additional off-road clearance issues). Regular ground tent is nice, but usually takes more time (esp. if you need air mattress etc), huge pain if the ground gets wet - I usually use a extra tarp under but more to carry and put away. And i don't think there would be LESS mice with a tent on the ground? Everything has tradeoffs.
I wrestled with the tent option for my Tacoma, at the end spent $800 for a softopper and made a thermo liner for it. My mpg/handling stayed the same, no top heavy weight of the tent plus rack, I like the stealth and ease of just closing the back gate and heading out. Nice review 👍
Great points. I have an hard shell RTT rhat i got for a great discoubt due to a few scratches. I think the RTT is great for true overlanding where you've done your offroading and exploring and ready to rest up for the night and move to new locations the next few days. For camping at Yellowstone or other areas where you need a base camp, it's not ideal. For that type of trip I have a ground tent. Each has its pros and cons.
I’ve never tried a roof top tent but I am a big believer in the swag experience. They’re easy to set up and take down, don’t cost much by comparison, do great in the wind, comfortable to sleep in, and give you a more immersive experience. I’m a little surprised they haven’t caught on more in the states and I think it’s because a lot of people want to advertise how adventurous they are by having a RTT.
Every day I'm coming around more and more to exactly what you're saying. The RTT seems cooler when you see the rig driving down the road, but the Swag makes so much more sense. There are already lots of models and lots of real world experience with people using them. Somebody just needs to just bring them to the states.
What's the advantage of a swag over an actual tent, backpacking or regular? I used a King's Big Daddy Deluxe for several nights. The included pad was worthless, took just as long to set up as a regular tent, and the cargo space the rolled swag takes up is insane. Again, what's so great about the Swag?
@@thelandcruiserprojectthey are bulky when rolled up, but if you have the space for them, they are much more comfortable and faster to set up than a backpacking tent. My Crashpad is a 2 pole design and it takes about 2 1/2 minutes to set up and it has a 3” foam mattress inside. They are much much quieter in the wind than nylon tents.
@@thelandcruiserproject The kings ones aren't really a very good example, kings stuff is cheap for a reason, some of it is good (i have a lot of kings stuff) some of it is pretty ordinary. This comment reads like somebody taking a GWM ute for a spin, hating it and then saying that they wouldn't buy a landcruiser ute because utes are shit just coz the cheapest shittiest one they could find wasn't great. My Darche swag is quicker to set up than my fast setup tent (which is pretty fast), and I can (just) fit it on the back of my motorbike without being too wide if i wanted to (I'd look a little silly but I have put it on there to see). The canvas is great, the mattress was ok but i prefer to use a quality self-inflating in there or set it up on a stretcher that adds a minute or so to set up. I can leave the sides unzipped and rolled up and look at the stars in summer (through the flymesh) and i can get as much or as little ventilation as I want. it's great for one person. More than one person i'd be using a tent anyway coz I'd be bringing the fam so i didn't bother getting an oversized behemoth of a swag like the big daddy deluxe. It takes up a little space but not excessively so in the back of the ute or on the roofrack
Part of why total hard shell non expanding beyond size of roof and just for short overnights seems still fine. Your points are all solid and ones that have me viewing the one I am looking at. There are a few options more economical now than in years past.
I sleep in the truck hard shell topper and put the gear in the tent each night. If you have ever tried to sleep in the wind where the tent flaps loudly all night, you will do the same.
Completely agree with you. I think this trend is pretty ridiculous, and in a few years it will fade away. Every time I see one on a burly truck I think, "Big tough guy, big tough truck, but afraid to sleep on the ground because of bugs and spiders." If you're out on the African savanna where something can seriously eat you that's different, but in North America I think they're highly unnecessary. (Same people buy these who spend $400 plus on a Yeti cooler . . .)
Look up the number of people that die each year from being attacked by each of those animals. Look at the number of attacks that didn’t kill people. Your list isn’t as deadly as the data says.
@@kwaynesatuckle5631 So.. you live your life by statistics, not experience.. and based on fatalities, not on unreported direct contacts.. sorry to hear.. that’s sad…
I love that you covered the Tepui hardware. My tent blew off the back of my truck on a super windy day. The mounting hardware is garbage. I bought a small trailer with a tip out tent and couldn't be happier.
Thanks for making this! I love our RTT and I did a lot of research before purchasing and it works phenomenally for our style. That being said, a lot of people don’t really know what they’re getting into and this video will greatly help them decide if it is the relight fit.
Most of these issues seem to be issues for this specific tent. The overall weight on the roof, and the center of gravity shift are my biggest concerns.
when stationary, most cars can handle over 5 times of their maximum declared roof-load-capacity without an issue. the roof load only really matters for when youre driving due to ur higher centre of gravity
Center of gravity off road is huge unless your idea of "offroad" are those nice graded flat dirt roads. When you're on a steep side incline like the start of Behind the rocks, you don't want 120lbs up high helping to pull you over. And stresses suffered offroad are far worse offroad than on road. Search broken tent roof racks its common and happens even to custom built heavy duty offroad racks. A few hundred miles of corregated road rattling your vehicle causes metal fatigue.
@@exploresouthwest What about...some way to remove the stress/grinding metal? Think shock absorbers, in effect...I had this issue with old Harleys. Stripped screws. Many stripped screws because they all need Loc-tite.
The number 1 thing i always tell people that ask about my RTT is that once its set up your stuck there until you decide to put it away. That's really the only thing I don't like about it. I can set it up and tear it down fairly quickly though. It works for me for certain camp situations but I am thinking about a simple sleep set up inside my 4Runner so I can go explore and move from location to location every day.
I was on the fence about a rooftop tent but now that I heard how much street cred it will give me then I’m in! Totally getting one now and can’t wait to flex! Thanks for the great review!
Very helpful. I too am one of those people being lured in by the “coolness” of these tents. But your candidness has helped convince me it’s not worth it. Thinking about a trailer.
Yes!! Finally!! Been saying this a long time. They were initially used on Land Rovers in Africa, where there was a reason for it! You would sleep up there with a shotgun. Makes absolutely no sense in the US, and the price is just ridiculous. Part of camping is getting away from your vehicle!!
With my experience I have owned my rooftop tent for going on 5 months. I use it every weekend to take my side by side out. Honestly for the price I would do it again. I've owned sever different ground tents and they just don't hold water out like the pop up does. I do have an issue with condensation from my breath if it's winter time but not the biggest issue. I also like to camp during winter and being up off the ground in the snow is particularly ideal for me. I think its more of what the consumer wants out of the product compared to others. Maybe the design you have isn't the one you need to be satisfied. Also you could use bed camper Jack's to lift the tent off the truck without tearing it down if you wanted to leave and still have your spot. Then again not with the set up you have. I'm using a big heavy lumber rack and it works great.
As an Aussie, I'd go a good swag all the way. Can even be rolled up with sleeping back inside for quicker set up/pack up. No need to fear crocodiles, they only eat slow loud tourists. I agree with what you say about FTT. Added bonus here Down Under is most multi-story car parks have a height clearance of 2.2m (7'2") which means you have to park on the street, which is not always ideal.
It just sounds like you don’t like them. I use one often and love it. I and see lots of people using them without half the grumbles you have. Ditch your tent so people stop asking and go along your way. Life’s short, enjoy it.
I did ditch it. Viewers told me they wanted to know why I'm getting rid of it. Many people who have RTTs are coming to the same conclusion, this comment section is full of them. And I think there are better options for what people need that cost less, and if I can convince them to not fall into the Gear Acquisition Syndrome trap maybe they can spend more time out camping than at home working to pay off a $2500 tent that doesn't really have any benefits over a $250 tent.
Sounds like it is an honest review to me. I don’t have one, so I am glad to hear his opinion. I can listen to the glowing reviews too, and then make my own decision.
@@rifleman1873 his review is telling people he doesn’t like them and convincing EVERYONE they are horrible when in fact they just aren’t for him. He low key tells people they are stupid to have one and that’s not how you review something.
@@PhatyMattyMcGee it’s his opinion and he’s sharing it in his channel. If the RTT works for you, then it’s all good. Like you said, life’s short, enjoy it. Cheers. 😊
Why not just bring both. Use ground tent when more convenient, rooftop when it makes sense and being off the ground has value. ??
That's exactly what I was doing. And as I laid down in my really high quality $300 backpacking tent I looked up at my RTT that cost 4 times as much, sucked my MPG, and made me top heavy and thought, "Why the hell am I dragging that around? My whole point enjoying camping is simplifying life. Why not just bring the one tent that does everything, instead of also hauling a heavier and more expensive tent that isn't as versatile?
It’s like this: buy the gear you like, keep the gear you love, upgrade the gear you no longer care for, and respect that people will always have different opinions.
*Our lumber-racked F250 work truck is a great budget camping platform. We use a few sheets of pre-drilled 1/4 inch marine plywood and zip ties to create a rooftop platform onsite (too windy to drive with it) and throw two two man tents up there. With D rings bolted to the plywood for the stake points total setup is 12 minutes and I don't have to put up with my 17yo son farting all night in the same tent.*
Loud, even our own opinions will change, from experience.
@@1nvisible1 perfect solution and very cheap alternative to a really expensive unit. Bet it breaks down quickly, too.
I’m definitely stealing that to use later. I absolutely agree.
One does not have to respect stupid opinions.
Thanks for this. This is the kind of straight-talk you don't get about most overlanding stuff because everyone is secretly trying to sell you something through affiliates. I appreciate the honesty.
I've been doing the RTT thing for six years, ten to 20 trips per year. Everything he says in this video is true. It's very tough to find a level spot (for your car) that is also a spot you want to be. Half of Explore Southwest's issues would be solved with a hard shell RTT though. Ease of opening and closing is more important than weight, aerodynamics, cost, or anything else. It's also supremely important to pick a tent that will store ALL your nighttime gear when closed. (blankets, pillows, and everything else). Another important point is to make sure that your hard shell tent only has latches on one side or one end....not both. Latches on all sides is twice as much jumping up and down on your bumpers to both open and close the tent. And, the weight of a "convenient" RTT, awning, and all the other stuff is going to ruin the way your vehicle drives and ruin your gas mileage. It's a very bad idea to build one of these rigs on your daily driver. Just the way it is. :(
I hear you but there are always solutions. The rig I’m building is for my ford f250 6.7 liter diesel. Fuel economy isn’t my issue and i made all the gear including the tent easily removed and put into storage so if I won’t be camping for a month my daily is back to normal.
Only one I thought about here was the extra gas and the performance loss because of the loss of aerodynamics... Didn't think about the storage. Weight right now isn't too much or a consideration, I'm designing a full hard side and top RTT to be built out of foam board and carbon fiber.
Good points on the latches too, I was going to do 2 on the opening side, but I'll probably cut it down to 1. Granted it's only going on my mini countryman and maybe my audi tt later on so height won't be an issue.
Weight and performance are my main 2 concerns right now.
Any thoughts on anything I should look into?
I put my rtt on a trailer i built for it to be the same exact height as my rig so i know it can clear anything my jeep will. If i cant find a level spot i use farm jacks on all four corners with ratchet straps holding them in place and max tracks under them. 6x4 trailer, i can move it around by hand even on a pretty decent slope.
Also incase i dint feel like popping the tent i just carry a throw out tent that pops out instantly and a hammock. At all times incase im feeling lazy lol.
@@KarstRats👁👁 Hmmmm. Nice solution.
I've been camping in the shell of my truck for 20 years now. My camp is always set up, doesn't flap in the wind, and is secured and lockable.
I also have three backpacking tents for going places on my atv or hiking. Total cost....$350. The shell came free with the truck.😄
I specifically measured out the length of my truck bed before I bought it with the intention of getting a shell and building a "mini camper" in it I could sleep on. But a new quality shell is expensive and that's when I got the idea of using an RTT. But your idea is literally what I was going for and I ended up with the RTT as a similar alternative. Turns out I don't think it was a good alternative.
I tent camp with my wife. If it is just me, I sleep in my rig. But, have been camping in the bed of a truck and shell. Lol
yeah back of SUV works for me. Put all the camping equip in the roof box. I mean how much crap do you need on a camping trip. I wouldn't want to live that way.
Compare roof tents with roof tents and ground tents with ground tents...!
Two very different ways of camping...
@@hugoborghifilho8702 I was comparing roof tents with camper shells. The only tents I care about are the light ones for backpacking.
Hmm $150 for a tent on the ground, or $2k so you can sleep 6 feet off the ground, tough one. My 87' Toyota van that I sleep in all time is probably worth $2k lol.
It’s abt the aesthetics I guess
Dude, I had an ‘87 Toyota van. I sold it 5 years ago and still think about it almost daily. Never let that thing go, man. You got the diesel?
@@skimmertakesall Will drive it till the engine goes, only 197k, looks like junk but idc it's gold to me. Just gas, 2wd.
Mine is barely worth 500. Lol
Kids are the best reason to get something like this…
These are all great points. I have a Roofnest on top of a 2012 Subaru Outback. All of these points in this video are correct. However, The 120 lbs roof capacity weight is “dynamic weight”. That is for when the car is in motion. The “static weight” for when the car is parked should be 600 - 800 lbs. So your car/truck can still handle the weight of anything extra than 120 lbs when parked.
In this particular case, you still have a 130lbs tent on your roof when you are driving. The drag weight from that big brick of tent must be nuts.
As a hunter and camper who strictly goes out in the middle of nowhere, rooftop tents are amazing. I also tow a trailer with my quad which is what I use to get around. If you’re going to spend the money, spend a little more and get a hard shell.
This guy honestly just bought the wrong tent. My tent setup time is less than 2 minutes. I can pack up and move spots in less than 1 minute. My tent was half the price and Way more convenient.
@@dejuices what tent did you get ? looking into getting one and I been watching random videos just to get an idea...
@@qobotzxcdsHighly recommend the Alu-Cab options.
No offense, but if you are driving (anything) you probably aren't in the middle of nowhere by most outdoorsmen's perspectives.
@@derRoteKampfflieger Never hunted Northern BC huh?
I am a life-long camper. I have never considered a rooftop tent for one reason: I have no doubt that, the first or second night I used it, I would get up in the middle of the night needing to pee, and while still 2/3 asleep, I would walk off the roof.
The cost alone would be a deal breaker for me. I don't remember whay I paid for my current car camping ground tent, which is roomy well-made, now several years old and holding up well, but I'm sure it was less than $200. The fact that you can't go anywhere in your vehicle without breaking it down and setting it back up, as mentioned in the video, is another serious drawback for me.
The clam shell roof tents, seems to be the exception. They are the way to go if you really want to be practical with a roof top tent.
As an Australian, im buying a trailer with an RTT. Leaves the tow vehicle to be a very decent daily, lets you base camp and be fairly mobile, keeps you off the ground. Also crocs are only common in certain parts of Australia, its the snakes and spiders that you need to worry about. Sure you are a bit limited as a result, but its not so bad
That sounds like the best plan of all, just a bit more cost up front.
Points well made but left out in the biased, whiney video.
I thought you were talking about my favorite camping shoe lmao
That's the way to do it, I've got 2 on a tradie trailer. I'd never put one on my car.
Snakes, spiders, love from the Mojave desert
Finally, an Overlander that can stand on his own two feet. Many of us appreciate you not trying to keep up with the Joneses and dishing out the truth! Keep up the good work. Awesome video!
LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
Nobody can keep up with this Jones.
Maybe he can stand on his own two feet cuz he doesn't sit around and drink beer?
i wouldn’t particularly say “overlander” this guy is more of a camping guy trying to glamp, he’s scared of mice!
@@trevorwilkerson3508💀💀💀
I absolutely love my 23zero RTT.
Cost of the tent was a little over 1200.00 when I bought it and the rack was 750.00 so yes roughly 2000.00 total. To be honest though mine is canvas and a good canvas ground tent is going to run about 1400.00.
Because of the tear down requirement in order to go somewhere eventually mounted it on a trailer 750.00 from TSC and that gave me the ability to store all my camping stuff under the tent like you do in your truck.
Set up and tear down are not as easy as the you tube video show but easier than my old ground tent in my opinion.
For remote camping I honestly can't beat it at that price.
I am very happy with my tent purchase and would do it again.
Thanks for the candid opinion. The RTT I was considering is only 80lbs, clam shell design that sets up/down much quicker, mounts on my existing pickup ladder rack (not a roof rack), and costs $1500. I decided the versatility of using my camping hammock or being able to sleep in the pickup topper remains the best solution by far. Gee, I can build another nice PRS rifle instead ;-).
After using my RTT for about 3 years, I'm now building a trailer to mount it on. Everything in this video is accurate.
You're pretty much at a popup camper at that point.
That is my thought too. I have a utility trailer for my Jeep I would like to put one on.
@@MuskratOutdoors I have a small utility trailer and I've thought about making a panelled box that could be bolted on to it. Possibly that could collapse a little. It wouldn't be quite a popup but related. I did have a popup but we got rid of it because of space issues.
@@chaos.corner I thought about that also, but couldn't really think of a design that would work. If you do make one, please let me know! I would love to see it. There is a need for compact, small campers for two adults. A good design might make a lot of money!
@@MuskratOutdoors It depends what you're looking for. For my size of trailer, it would basically be just for sleeping. Though it would also be good for storage. I was actually thinking of it from my old job because sometimes you just need some peace and quiet away from all the noise.
I agree with everything said, but I am sticking with my RTT - here's why. I am a life long back packer but my wife came to camping as an adult and was never comfortable sleeping on the ground. She didn't feel safe and spent all night listening to every sound and worrying. So camping was not fun for her.
Sleeping up high on top of our FJ she feels safe. Sleeping in blankets and sheets vs a sleeping bag - she sleeps better. Now she enjoys camping! I went hard shell so setup and teardown is about the same as a ground tent. I bought a used to save money. It's a Roof Nest and is quieter and darker than our ground tent. The occasional midnight relief trip is less of an issue than I thought it would be. Thanks for the great videos. We share the same camping ethics and I appreciate you talking about it. Stay on the trail and leave no trace!
I was thinking of an RTT. My wife is iffy about it. I then looked at adventure trailers...if I am towing I may as well get a teardrop with a real bed.
Then I saw the Roofnest Sparrow? I think. It is on my list. But I am still not sold on the RTT. Your points make me think again.
I have mine on a 5x8 utility trailer. Very light and low cost. If the side gets scraped no big deal. I have the annex and put a porta potty in there for the wife. It's no Hampton Inn but that's the fun of it.
Get a dog you will sleep like a log anywhere ! They Love acting as security besides they will thank you for not sleeping in a tent where they can’t climb a ladder to....Millennials ugh 🤦🏼♂️
I have a large 23zero rtt, your points are great. Especially levelling and campsites where you park separate from the site. But I really don't want to camp anywhere away from my vehicle since so much other gear/ supplies then need to be hauled to and from that I avoid those sites anyway. But I'd like to add that the bed racks people purchase often aren't rated for the static weight loaded onto them. My tent holds four people and weighs close to 200lbs, with people I'm often over 1000 pounds. I ride behind trucks and see the racks having a noticeable shimmy. Just looks like a tragedy waiting to happen. My point is that your investment in the bed rack has to be as well researched as the tent you buy. I welded mine from 1/8" rectangle. I would visit a fabrication shop before buying a bolted together bed rack made of 1/16" plate. Just my thoughts.
The feeling of safety is a good reason to ignore "rational" arguments. You could argue until you are blue in the face that a ground tent is as safe as a roof top tent, but that doesnt escape the fact that she feels better and sleeps better in a roof top tent. In your case a RTT is the right choice for you because a good nights sleep is very important.
Refreshing to see a very real take on something like this. Not to say that other people can’t love these or that this is the universally correct opinion, it’s just great to see some contrast so that people can consider the cons and make informed decisions.
I 1000% am getting into this and was thinking of getting one of these. Everything you said would drive me crazy. Will not be getting one. Thank you. Great work
I was looking at $5000.oo for the ikamper … not anymore
I have had All of my overland buddies tell me how cool they are. But the money and weight on top of my 5th gen 4runner I just can't justify that when I can get a cot, pad and gazelle for a 1/4. But to each there own too.
Yeah I’m gonna save the $3k and use it for truck gear
@@ionageman you can buy a pop-up camper for that much and have heat, sink, kitchen etc.!
Im thinking Alucab for the Gladiator.
I must be one of the only dissenters because I really enjoy my RTT which I purchased new for under $900 (which is still probably too expensive for what you get). I do agree with point #2 that it makes you immobile, and that it can be noisy in wind. The immobility is probably what I would view as the biggest downside. Otherwise, it has been great. It's easy to set up with no blood spilled, and I've never had a problem getting the vehicle leveled enough using logs or stones under a tire or two. It has provided many good night's sleep on quite a few outings so far. So, maybe they're not for everybody, but they're not all bad either.
what's the effect on your speed and mpg?
@@43cdb No real impact on speed. I still drive pretty normally. About a 12-15% reduction in fuel economy depending on conditions. It's on a Jeep Wrangler in my case. So, mileage is terrible to begin with. I definitely notice that it is up there while off-road. Nothing scary, but you can tell that the center of gravity is a little higher.
I'm willing to bet if I mounted it over my F-150 bed instead (staying low) that it wouldn't have any impact at all.
Dissenter here. I have a Smittybilt that was
yakima skyrise here and love it very much, I use rainfly only when I need to and I can set it up in 1 min or two.
It sucks not being able to move, but I mainly bought it for overlanding trips, so no big issue there.
If I can find a good deal I’ll probably get one at some point.
You sold me with the immobility. When you explained it in detail... I was like ohhhhhhhhhh. Yea fuck that.
immobility is only for those with crappy tents...
I spent $45 total for both of my old school military shelter half’s. After 15 years it’s still in perfect condition and not a single hole. Canvas is extremely durable material. Why fix what ain’t broken?
I think that sentiment is the key point. An RTT is a "Solution" to a problem that never existed. Mountain men traveled all over the country with a horse and a bed roll. It's not like we were incapable of camping until RTTs came along. They just overcomplicate something that didn't need to be complicated in the first place.
But what about the government motto that states “If it ain’t broke, fix it till it is”?
@@privateer177666 and look at how effective our government is running things now. It’s a pure shit show.
@@shibblesshalzabot6320 Brotherman, I’ve seen it from the inside out.... and I couldn’t agree with you anymore knowing the goat roping that was going on a bit ago...
Where might one get that? A surplus store?
I love that campsite!
Another issue: It is harder to show occupation of your campsite. A number of first come first serve campsites require you leave stuff on the site to show it is occupied. As soon as you drive off, there is nothing reserving the site. “Tent on site” is the universal sign showing the site is occupied. You don’t have that option.
Keep a sign that says occupied in your Jeep with a place to write the date and put that in the camp with anything else you might leave 🤷♂️
We have a stand alone awning, actually we have two, one we attach to the side of our van, one to the back, neither take long to put up, so we have loads more room than we had with our pain in the arse tent with all its fidgety carbon poles, the whole lot can be erected in a few minutes and we can drop the roof ten in less than a minute, put the cover on in two or three minutes. Leave the awning(s) up to mark our pitch and come back later.
@@bonzegrinder1 someone. Could toss the sign away and pretend it wasn’t there 💁♂️
@@trvsball ya they could, but most people will respect it, and if it's secluded and you put it at the entrance most people won't even go down to check if you're there 😁
That's whats a small pop-up tent is for. Takes no room and time to set up. Also usable when you want to stay a night away from the car.
All valid points, and yet i still prefer my RTT over grounders. To me, i just love it
It's true. Everything has its positive and negative. I think if you get a rooftop tent anticipating that it will be appropriate for some situations but not all (in the same way you might find more use with a truck and cabover camper than a class A or vice versa) then you will know its limitations and be able to plan accordingly.
Basically buy a hard case clamshell type, not these type
That’s exactly what I was thinking. The size and weight of the really nice ones would be impossible to pack around, too.
Yup, The clam type set up much quicker and look more durable.
You would still run into the leveling issue right? I would think that would be a huge issue.
@@hengehogs And not being able to drive anywhere with it set up...
@zoom zoom they both have their positives and negatives. It all depends on when, where, and how you do your camping, really. A heavily insulated tent with a memory foam bottom for comfortable sleeping in cold weather is difficult to carry around on your back. A trailer is great for hauling your gear until you get into a tight spot and need to back out.
You convinced me at "$2500 for a tent".
I was out at “tent”
LOL! Well there is always that consideration too.
@@Souflay1 Sissy! 😉
And that's the cheapest model. The more expensive ones don't have as many issues but then you're spending a lot more
@@Russianmafia10 you can get a decent one for 1000 . Most of these tents are made in 2-3 different factories in china , just like his brand , couple different features and price bump
Thanks for the honest review. I was on the fence about buying one. All of your points are valid to me. I’ll stay on the ground (been doing it for years) and save the rack for additional gear.
One important topic you forgot to mention. I don't know too many of the over 60 crowd, especially if you're carrying a few extra pounds, who go through the entire night without having to take a trip to the toilet. With a roof top tent this is difficult, especially if you're over 60 and carrying a few extra pounds. That's why I camp in a class A.
not only this, but who goes camping and doesn't have some type of alcoholic drink, or other... and getting up a ladder, when you might not be coherent enough to even remember you have a tent, is going to be an interesting challenge lol
This is why camping in a campervan is far superior. Nothing to do but "turn the van ignition key on or off" . You have a toilet , kitchen, sink, bed etc immediately available. It does matter what the weather is, rain or shine, hot or cold. Your investment in a van and conversion cost can total no more than the cost of a quality pick up, or RV, and a roof top tent
@@amishparadise1924 you have to be kidding !
Oh, nop ! Just realized your a whinny piece of human
I guess I should have read further down on the comments. 90% of my camping is now in the RV and I pull my Jeep where as in the past it was about 50%. You’re so right, some of us are into multiple nighttime excursions. I tell my younger friends that I’d probably forget I was in a rooftop and go splat on the ground at night!
That’s what old Gatorade bottles are for, especially winter camping!
I liked seeing a different perspective. I just bought one that takes a minute to setup and about 5 to tear down. If I’m leaving camp I bring my tent anyway because I’m not leaving all my gear for someone to steal so I’d rather have it with me.
Did you get one of these pop up hardshell ones?
@@jacobwhite9006 I did. It’s the ikamper sky camper mini. It sets up so fast. I got it at rei at a garage sale so it was half off and they’re normally 3,500 bucks.
After having this for a month there are a few points I disagree with that this guy made
Leveling your truck for your tent is awesome. There were so many spots that were on slopes that having a ground tent would have never worked with. Leveling is not a con
Camp set up and tear down does take time. But that happens anyway. If you want to be fast or pickup camp to take sunrise pictures there’s nothing stopping you from bringing a ground tent.
They’re really comfortable. Or at least mine is anyway.
Inn the end it depends what you’re using it for. My wife and I are trying to save money on hotels when we do our 40 mile hikes in random places. I made an awesome hot water system and it’s already paying for itself.
I feel like it’s a camper trailer with none of the negatives of towing a trailer
Years ago I worked in a off-road shop and we used to install the hard shell rooftop tents all the time. Everyone that had 1 installed loved it. They're easy to set up and easy to take down, takes about 2 minutes. Problem solved with not being able to drive around. And as of today they cost around $2000.
Have been camping for over 30 years in just about everything. Yah, that whole getting up in the middle of the night to pee thing....watch out for that first step! The RTT cool stopped there for me. Have a Tacoma with a canopy, put a plywood platform over the top of the wheel wells. Lots of storage underneath in totes, queen-sized bed on the top. Has worked really well for us. Put a clamshell shelter at the back that can remain in place to back into if you need more cover. Many of those points can also apply to camper van vs. camping trailer. As much as I don't care for towing something, can drop the trailer, level it, leave it and still have 4WD to go explore
I agree. A few beers around the fire with friends could be a face plant in the dirt a few hours later.
Great point. Who wants to climb down a ladder to take a whiz? I was sure he would mention that in the video. I considered the RTT option but instead I spent a fifth of the money for a quick setup 9-man tent with a screen room, a queen size air mattress, a portable toilet and shower. I can use them all without leaving the tent, and have room to stand up and change clothes as well. If you want to bring a woman and not make her hate it, this is the way to go.
Pee bottle lol I'm putting attempt up in back of the truck for close to 30 years not all the time but if it's raining or snowing it sure is nice to get off the ground. Then if you want to move somewhere just have to pull the rods out of the tent pockets let it drop down with the bags and everything inside. It also has air shocks on all four corners. Can also control each shock independently.
My Bush plane is a different story. have a tent that Clips up underneath one of the Wings and then some. But we can stand completely up in it. even has a 2 gal water tank in the wing so we can take a shower. And have a no-see-um screen that goes up under the other wing. 2 gal water tank in that wing also for doing dishes and putting out the campfire. Yes it's an experimental plane I designed and built myself. And all that stores in the belly pod.
I have a Roofnest sparrow that I’ve been using for 2 years, on top of my 2015 Jeep Patriot. I absolutely love it. I keep my bedding and pillows up there and a fan. I have LED strips inside and my Jackery powers it all. It’s ready to go 100% of the time. I grab my camping totes and hit the roads to the mountains.
It’s worth the $$ for me. It’s in perfect shape still and sometimes I take my Weenie dog camping and he loves it too.
They’re not for everyone. But I’m a big fan.
Right with you. Loved my tent and will buy a new one in the near future. When I had mine I also kept my duvet and pillows in the tent while folded.
I'm about to buy the Sparrow XL. You have to spend money if you want a great experience. The rooftop tent in this video looks cheap so that's probably why this guy had a bad experience. I hear Roofnest is one of the best in terms of quality. "Expensive", but worth it.
@@timeisahumanconstruct9251 They’re a lot of fun. Makes camping so much easier and quicker. And road trips, you’ll never need a hotel again lol
LED stripes 😳
@@omargaidi9698 L.E.D Strip lighting.
Great video. I love my RTT and would never give it up. But every point you made is totally valid. Def great pointing out the things that people need to consider before purchasing RTT’s. Most of the guys I know are now building small trailers to put the RTT on to alleviate a lot of the issues. That of course has its own issues lol. But we’ll done video 👍
When I saw the title of your video, I was pretty skeptical. I have been considering a RTTS despite the very high cost. I have some questions, though, and honestly the videos that I have been looking at were not answering those questions. ALL the I have been watching have been sponsored by the tent manufacturers, so I assumed they were probably not giving me the whole story. But they did a great job of promoting the highlights, and those were pretty close to convincing me to pull the trigger and get one.
Now, this EXTREMELY comprehensive video has opened my eyes. Most of your complaints don't apply. You and I camp very differently, and a lot of what irritates you wouldn't bother me. That's fine because you were able to point out those details in such a way that I could ignore them. But there were a few others, details about which I had unanswered questions, that you covered in such a way that they answered almost all my concerns. As a result, I am no longer considering a RTTS. So I thank you for your frank and articulate review and for saving me a shit-ton of money.
i've always just assumed roof top tents were really just for mall cruisers. I had no idea people actually ever used them. theres always an un-used winch and a brand new hilift jack with it too. seems like people just buy them so they can have the gas station conversation about it.
As someone who frequents ATV trails in my Rubicon (don't ask 😅)
Rooftop tents are definitely not just a gimmick. They are quick to set up/ take down and I can park in standing water if I really wanted and walk around the body of my Jeep to set up the tent without ever putting a foot to the ground... 😁 There are a lot of places not made for a ground tent or where I at least don't want to clear the ground
I don't know what that is but it sounds OK to me..
@@bonzegrinder1 that's just a bunch of crap
@@RagingBad it's really not, but your comment on a 7 month old post certainly is.
@@bonzegrinder1 it doesn't matter how old is it dummy
I have a hard shell roof top tent that is quick to setup and take down and the bedding all fits inside, so that helps, plus it doesn’t stick out past either side of the vehicle. Doors on both sides of the tent and I have a Honda trail 90 on a back hitch for adventuring around away from camp, and I take a normal tent with me if I don’t want to deal with the roof top or want to camp somewhere I can’t park. 🤷♂️ I think a lot of these complaints are specific to your tent and needs, but I totally get your points. Thanks for making this though, definitely some good info.
I never understood the whole “gotta get off the ground” RV crowd. Then I went camping with my neighbors. Their aversion to ground tents seems to be based on years of crappy Walmart grade tents poorly setup that will of course leak/flood in bad weather. They were quite shocked how dry my good marmot tent stayed when we had a rainy night. It’s seems they never consider mid range actual good gear (and learning how to set it up properly) they go for the cheapest tent, get frustrated with it then go for a big RV/rooftop rig.
Hi. As I understand, it was designed in South Africa to address roaming wildlife eg lions
@FloEvans I have had a Walmart/Academy (I don't remember) $100.00 tent for 17 years. We use it at least once a month. My kids grew up using it. We have been on all kind of weather. Is not meant for cold/snow weather, but we learned to make it work. The tent looks still like new, except a little hole on the floor due to a burn. You just have to know how to use it and care for it.
The roof top tent is very popular in Africa because our wildlife has a tendency of up rooting standard ground tents. My uncle was dragged of his ten by a lioness after it had ripped through a side wall, a Ranger eventually has to come down and shoot the lion to get it off my uncle, and he is a very large man. Then a friend of my father was dragged out of his tent by a lion who only managed to grab the bottom end of his sleeping bag, so he was able to slip out and climb a tree. My other friend wasn't so lucky. I lion attacked and took him away when he was sitting with 6 other people around the camp fire. Unfortunately the lion ate him for dinner. But this is Africa, it why we live here. If the door of your ground tent is not secure the hyena will get in and bite off your face or ears. And elephants, oh fuck ! Too many experiences with those guys !!!
@@jtcmlt1 too be fair quality of products 17 years ago is not the same as today or even 5 years ago.
@@Weth_C I agree with you 100%
I admit that RTT's look cool as hell but I'll never own one. Peeing at night as a major event. Raises CG and effects handling of vehicle. A topper on a pickup has been the best I've found in 60 years of camping.
Do you pee in your topper or do you still get out of it? A few more ladder steps are not really a bigger deal than popping down your tailgate and getting out of your topper.
That 120 pounds of weight a car roof can take, according to the Toyota rep I talked to, refers to "dynamic" (traveling at speed) weight not "static"
weight (parked, standing still) which is approx. 3 times more. Big difference. Btw... great vid!
I agree with you on all of your points. I sold my Yakima RTT after 4 years of using it and switched back to a ground tent (gazelle) with sleeping cot. I can have it set up as quick as my RTT if not quicker and I don't have to pack it if I leave the campground. One negative point I'd like to add is getting up to the bathroom at night (yes, some of us have to do it once or twice every night). It was a royal pain to climb the ladder half asleep, especially in the rain. For me the biggest negative was driving with the tent when I was not using it, pretty much entire spring, summer and fall. At first I would take it off when not in use but it became too much hustle and I just left it on, which limited my truck bed space. Thanks for this review, I really enjoyed it.
Nice to have every assumption I had about these things validated by someone who has been using one for half a decade.
Right I agree !
agreed
Same.
Yeah, think I’d rather crash in the back seat of the cab or have a regular or extended cab with a long bed and a raised top shell over the bed. At least the latter would allow for dry storage and could be insulated if so desired.
Agreed!
the manufacturers maximum roof load only really matters for as long as youre driving.
higher centre of gravity = worse handling, duh
when stationary, most cars can handle over 5 times of their maximum declared roof-load-capacity without an issue.
people are putting 40kg rooftents on their VW up!
in combination with 7kg mounts theyre staying below the max capacity of 50kg for that car.
and the roof aint folding up! once theyre getting in. even with company (lets say all together 240kg).
just keep in mind that the load should be mounted on the door-frames and not in the centre of the roof.
I'm leaning more towards a small hard-shell off-road camper, something I can set up and still be mobile - thanks for the honest review!!
i don't doubt this man, anyone that can properly use the word "crestfallen" in casual convo is someone I can trust ..i wouldn't get one simply because i don't need to be climbing down steps at 3am just to take a piss..
Just piss out the same hole the mice climb in from
@@georged822 That right there is a winner of a comment.
There's enough monkey in a reasonably fit human being for that ladder to be no hardship. But it looks like an accident waiting to happen, especially in the middle of the night when you're just awake enough to empty your bladder. I'm not a big drinker, but the most likely place and time for me to drink beer is on one of those trips out in the woods. I want my camp pretty safe and easy to navigate.
That bit about not being able to situate yourself ideally to take advantage of (morning) shade can be a big factor. Maybe you're an early riser and seeing the sun come up is one of the highlights of your trip. @Explore Southwest is taking pictures of dawn and sunset, so he's up before the heat is a factor. He just mentions it sort of in passing, as an issue in a parking lot. One of the things I like about trips is I can decide to sleep in if I want. Some people aren't wired like that. I am. And I'll set up drinking beers and swapping lies until everybody else has gone to bed, and I'll enjoy the fire and my thoughts all by my lonesome. Maybe even make a coffee, because it's the thing I most crave at that moment, and stay up to see the sun come up THAT way!
LOL!
just got to be like Ricki's dad Ray and piss in a jug, cap it when its full and drive it out the tent door. "it's the way of the road Bubs".
A wide mouth Gatorade bottle is your friend, and will make your tent mates wonder what the hell is going on.
This was good to know. I was thinking i liked the fold out roof tents more than the hard top because they have more room. But now I'm thinking the hard tops are better sealed, quicker setup, and that small lack of room might be worth it.
Yeah if you're going with an RTT I think the hard top ones aren't sulerior, unfortunately like all things that also means there is a price increase to go along with it.
@ReasonablySkeptic - it’s not the style of RTT that’s important, design and build quality are the most important as are materials used.
A cheap unit of either may not be as well designed or built as a more costly option of either. But it could be a good way to enter the game to know what works and doesn’t work for you - or what to look for in your next purchase if you decide this is for you.
Several of the issues mentioned have work-arounds. If you know you’re going to base camp you can create a setup where your RTT can be removed and transported to a ground site for the duration of your stay - your vehicle is the accessible for those sunrises, sunsets and restaurants? (Who goes camping to go to a restaurant that’s not a pub on the way to camp?). Alternatively a set of legs could be made like those for the slide on/off camper to help remove it from the top of your vehicle.
Everything is a compromise of some sort. The use of a car Jack can be an easy way to level your vehicle rather than trying to find that level spot by moving your vehicle around heaps in how to find that levelled feeling you want. It’s not always achievable either, same for a ground tent or swag sometimes.
One good thing about the RTTs not mentioned is the cross breezes you get in summer that helps cool the tent, I always liked hat in our Australian summer heat. The clam shell design worked well for us and was the best before kids.
Now we’re in swags but that’s getting too painful so we’re back looking for a clamshell RTT for the car and a hard top RTT for the camper trailer for ease of setup and pack up.
Also worth mentioning that in some parts of Australia tents and swags are not allowed in some areas and finding a caravan park that allows them can be difficult too. We experienced this along the east coast of Oz from NSW to southern QLD. Not much fun had chasing a camp space we could legally stop off at and use. Anything ground tent-able was a short hike down a track we didn’t want to walk.
That got away from me! I hope it was useful to someone!
That’s why I love my little off-road trailer
That's what I'm thinking.
Exactly what I did, also I feel like I don't have 1/2 the issues with my FSR that he does with the Tepui, I do understand the concerns for sure though, trailer for life!
RD said he's getting to old to climb up on the trailer,so you will be sleeping alone next time
I’ve been thinking about lifting a pop up camper lmao
@@BabaYaga_Beatz I have an offroad tent trailer with a deck on the front. It can be a little long but it's no longer than my truck. We absolutely love it. Easy to tow, quick to set up. Prefer it over a small travel trailer.
Man, I am sorry you have had such a bad time with your RTT. I have owned an ARB RTT for a little over three years and a good number of these issues seem to be brand specific; as I have not had those issue in mine.
Now they are slower to setup, it does limit the use of the vehicle when they are setup, but other than that, I have had a very different experience with mine. I regularly keep two sheets (fitted and normal) three blankets (for those really cold nights) the default three inch mattress and a 2 inch memory foam mattress (for insulation and comfort) and a thick memory foam pillow, in my tent with no issues closing it up. After three years of using it almost every weekend (will camp in the ski resort overflow lot in the winter), I love mine and would not go back to ground tents unless I had to. And I did years of backpacking before I moved into overlanding.
Also, whenever I do have to camp in normal camp grounds, I usually will get an RV spot (level and pull through) or I make sure that the spots are pull up and not walk up.
I hope you experience gets better. After all, we are all out here to enjoy the outdoors.
How is not being able to drive a car with the tent up - his first point - brand specific?
@@johnnytremain8017 New pop-up rooftop tents take about two minutes to set up or break down. Easy to do. Also, if your idea would be to "drive a car with the tent up - you can do that too - it's called a camper.
Who wants to leave their tent somewhere anyway?
Great review. Really bloodly honest. Hard shell RTT are far better and faster and more expensive, but to most worth it. My son uses one and it works for him because he needs his tray to carry lots of tools, material and gear. Swags are very popular over here in the Land of Oz, but I don't use them. I either sleep on the ground under a tarp or a gazebo or I use my one pole canvas tent. It is 9 foot by 9 foot square and about 7 foot 6 high. I love it. You can stand up to get changed! One half is a double bed, the other, changing and your gear! If the weather is a little inclement, (pissing down raining), stay inside, cook, read a book, get on your phone if you must. You guys really need to learn about the beauty of old school canvas tents! My first one died at 33 years of age (I inherited it). But that was because of a material fault in the floor. My next two (an extra for guests) And you don't fall that far getting into your tent when your pissed! Hope that helps. Cheers.
I agree with some of these points but I also really really like being up off the ground. Putting a RTT on a small trailer seems to solve many of your cons in having one.
Well at that point you have a soft-sided r-pod..... just buy an effing r-pod
@@glennbeadshaw727 because an rpod is completely different beast. they are a huge jump in price and most importantly, weight. i can also carry 2 hard kayaks underneath a rooftop tent. i can also take my trailer on roads/trails an rpod can only dream of.
@@pliablefoe4337 point taken you're a rare type of a bird
Yes,, and the first night I slept in mine I was like wow Flat ground. I slept like a baby
@@glennbeadshaw727 Not really. A lot of us are like him and like the rough roads away from people.
My favorite setup for many years is a truck with shell, and a tent cot. It's heavy, but 5 minute setup, and you are off the ground
I appreciate the brutal honesty of this video, and will likely buy one anyway. I already tow an ATV on a utility trailer. The plan is to build a rack for the trailer and keep the tent up there. This will address the biggest issues. One thing he didn’t address with ground tents is lumpy and uneven ground. Hard to level the truck or trailer, but brutal for a ground tent.
I purchased the roofnest falcon because of the set up time. When I camp I can fully set up and close down my tent in around 3 minutes or less. The tent has great ventilation and I love the benefits of being raised up as a barrier against wild life.
Think I’m gong to get the falcon 2 here in a few months
it might take you only 3 mins or less to set up the tent, but to truly camp, you set up all your gears in the tent to make it homey as well. I can't imagine to take everything out and everything back in just so i can fold the tent away so I can leave the camp site. unless you just set up the tent in 3 mins and sleep in there with nothing in there... I mean it takes more than 3 min to just inflate and deflate the air mattress or whatever sleeping pad system you have lol.
@@lixmos make it homie? A RTT is for seeping. Not hosting a dinner party. I can get out of my vehicle, pop 2 latches, push up the top and get out the ladder and be in bed in 2 minutes. Pack up is about the same time. All in all, I can set up/pack down my entire camp (RTT, awning, couple of chairs and a table and BBQ) in under 10 minutes. I can pull up and be in bed in 2 minutes. Honestly, camping is about being outside in nature, fresh air and the sights. A tent is just somewhere to sleep. As long as it’s warm, dry and comfortable.
@@lixmos only thing I bring in my tents are phone, charger, and maybe my fan. Also, why would you need to inflate a foam mattress?
Wow three mins 🤣
Honestly as janky as it seems, I bought a 6’ x 10’ enclosed trailer and added a mesh door, some removable carpet and an air mattress and it worked perfect. Just bring accessories like an awning and you will have plenty of room to store stuff on the go and lock it up if you want to leave.
I went with a quick setup hub style ground tent for most of the reasons you stated. I've been off roading / camping for decades and we usually use our campsite as a "base camp". The thought of constant setup and tear down never made sense to me. It also cracks me up when people use "you're more secure from wildlife"....having spent hundreds of nights in the woods, I've never had an issue that couldn't be solved by a bit of yelling and arm waving...lol. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I opted for a hard shell and I don’t know how anyone does a soft shell. It takes me 2 minutes to fully set up mine (two poles) and I added a level to my roof rack lol. These are all very valid points especially the if you want to go somewhere part. I trailer my rzr so it works wel for me. I just take the rzr wherever I want to go. If you don’t have a second vehicle you may want to use a trailer setup
I'm getting a soft top cuz it's easier for me to convert from camping to cargo with it more so than having to figure out how I'll remove and store a hardtop by myself at my apartment
@@Shuturulsdad I’ve got a friend that did that for that reason, come to find out his particular soft shell weighs more than my mt Washington does! Takes 2 people to remove mine (180*) but it’s really not bad. I’ve got a tundra with a bed rack so I haven’t noticed much loss in cargo space. Mine also has a roof rack on top that helps with storing kayaks and paddle boards but I think it’s limited to 150lbs or so
@@clayboy_20 I have the new inspired overland hardtop/softtop rtt it’s amazing 87 pounds I can throw it on my ford 6.7 all by myself. The soft tops are too much work and don’t cost any less
@@dejuices do you have any cons for that rig? I'm checking them out. Have you been in wind / weather with it?
Friend of mine loves his. His issue is mold developed especially when damp weather at time of close up. Hassle when have to open up to dry out at home, cleaning included.
As someone that entirely hammock camps, I like the idea of a roof top tent.
The hammock I use for all the spots I want to camp. The roof top tent I can use almost any day at the beach when I go surf. I could just camp out I’ve right and go surf.
Difficult to find a level spot and obviously the spot you can park your truck/rig is not always where you wanna camp.
Like your sarcasm in the closing argument, I don’t have one but had sort of looked them over, but couldn’t justify the price, thanks for the honesty!!
Damaged in a roll over? Most likely the tent would be last on my worries list if that happened.
Yeah, but it's still an extra $ thousand or two loss on top of an already really bad day...
Thinking he meant your insurance carrier will try to get out of covering you in an accident.
For me the worst part is how it negatively impacts the gas mileage, height, handling, wind noise, and center of gravity of the vehicle itself. I have an expensive hardshell RTT and am already having second thoughts after one season. Unfortunately a ground tent isn’t a great option in dusty desert environments where your stuff gets covered in dust/sand if the wind picks up, and I can’t use my hammock most of the time because suitable trees are lacking in much of the Southwest. Sleeping in the vehicle may be the best solution.
What about 1 tree and using the B pillar as tree #2?
3rd season with an RTT, and I couldn’t agree more! I just got back from a 3500 mile road trip, New England to Florida via Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Heading out to a trailhead? Pack it up. need more ice in the cooler? Pack it up. Because of this trip I’m now building an off-road trailer to put it on.
I'm making the same trip in July. Thanks for the insight!
We like to get up and go too much to consider this type of set up. We like to unhitch and secure and be free to go and return.
Why do you even use a cooler 😂
@@AmazonWebService98 I had a 12v fridge and a solar set up... but I camp in the woods.
@@maxpowersbigfoothunter3825 well depends i got a canyon set up as a overland er and i got a tipi tent for winter camping with Woodstock
LOVE your honesty! I never thought they were a great idea. I know some people who put them on a trailer they tow, which helps, but you still deal with wind, the expense, dirt....not to mention the hassle for those of us who take frequent trips to the bathroom at night.
For the price of a RTT on a trailer, you can buy a pop up trailer. Fridge, heat, stove, lights....all already there. Takes maybe 20 minutes to set up and take down.
Truth! You had us laughing out loud remembering our last trip on the White Rim trail... We are absolutely positive that the mice saw us diving up to our camp sites in our FJ and setting up their attack plans! Worse than any other wildlife we have ever encountered! They (mice in the camp grounds) have become trained to know "vehicles = food".
What a great evaluation from someone that does much more camping than I do, and thank you for touching on the responsible camping aspect, I’m an off-road person and always clean up trash around the area of my camp. I was contemplating the exact tent that’s on your truck, so glad to see this video. See you on the trail.
This is why I opted to build a camper conversion in the back of my SUV and put a cargo box on the roof, makes for a more comfortable and mobile experience.
Popups address many of the clamshell issues (single parking spot, no poles, no cover to manage, no rain fly, no holes for mice, etc.). We sold our clamshell quickly since the cumbersome aspects are solved for us with a camper too / popup setup. I think these are fair points to make! Clamshells aren’t the only type. Would be interested in your feedback on truck bed toppers/cap. We move from site to site, have fixed sink, fridge, etc inside and it’s functional.
I love seeing thoughtful, logical, articulate arguments that cut against the grain. Well-done. I hope your video is influential in at least helping people consider a different viewpoint when making a significant purchase.
For what it is worth, when I had a truck, I had a nice shell on the back with a mattress on a platform. Plenty of storage under and beside the bed, quiet, secure, sliding windows and screens, and I could even crawl through the back window into the cab and drive off without going outside if I wanted to. They even make shells with little doors in them now, no need to crawl awkwardly out the back! Anyways, I look forward to seeing what your next camping setup might be. Thanks for the video!
When I was first shopping for a truck that was the setup I had in mind too; also planning on building out a sleeping space and storage like a little mini camper. That's why I made sure the bed of this truck was long enough for me to sleep in. But the price of bed cabs had me hold off on going that route, then I got distracted into going with the RTT.
@@exploresouthwest In addition to the truck-shell camper I've also been blessed to have a popup trailer and a Casita travel trailer. Both trailers have been great but I would be lying if I said I don't find myself nostalgic for the days I would just throw a few things into the back of my truck and hit the road. It was a simpler, more carefree way to travel.
I would say it depends on the type and brand you buy. Not all tents are equal.
True, but as long as it's tied to your truck. You'll always be limited to where and what your truck can do. A simple thing like finding shade in the desert where the tallest trees are 10ft is easy with a ground tent, hard with an RTT.
My basic issue comes down to "What is the benefit that RTTs provide (and ground tents don't) that is worth $2000-$5000?"
Most of them are all reproductions of generic Chinese manufacturing
Thats why in Australia alot of us get a jack off canopy that the rtt is connected to, so if u want to stay for a few days u jack the canopy off your tray(truck bed) and u have made camp and have four legs to level ur self up no problem. Kinda like the pcore trays (patriot campers) but thats at the high end, way cheaper options in oz
@@kimyusof6780 excuse me a what canopy that you 😳 what?
@@kjcorder check out pcore trays there an ozzy company that sell in the states but they are very expensive, alot more options of different suppliers over here
Thank you! I almost bought one cause I thought it looked cool and convenient, but you're right. The inconvenience of having to leave my vehicle parked if I want to use it during the day is an issue
I’ve had a Tepui for a couple of years now. I do like it, and also agree with most of your arguments.
It works well for me because we take bikes. We tend to find a place in the woods to park, make a base camp, then take trips from there. But it’s a very particular use case.
Folks will overlook all sorts of functional downsides once they've committed a couple thousand into their Instagram ornament. I'm with you, longtime backpacker and car camper. For vehicle travel, my Gazelle T4 deploys faster than a soft roof top tent, cost less than $300, doesn't raise my center of gravity, hit the MPGs or cramp my itinerary like a RTT. You buy into a lot of consequential 'cons' for those $2000+.
I own an iKamper, am not on Instagram, I use my RTT a lot, and unless I'm backpacking, I'll never go back to a ground tent. Each to his own.
You could outfit from scratch with decent gear and fund entire camping trips for the price of a RTT alone. Crazy.
Much appreciated video. I considered a rooftop tent, but have decided to frame up a cot inside my old Tahoe. Still have leveling and site issues, but I always have a backpacking setup with me for parking at the trailhead and heading out for a few days on trail. Pro tip for leveling is to use a clear water bottle like a smartwater bottle as a level. I do this on trail t be sure my head is above my feet.
Thank you for honest review because you are not an influencer selling your soul for free stuff !
I just back from Iceland 🇮🇸, My 4x4 had Roof top tent ( Autohome Columbus - Made in Italy- Fibreglass ) it’s close & become like suit case) just pull up to open or string down to close) We had no problem with it. It was so easy.
The best tent proven across (mostly) every continent
Got a partial solution. I grew up camping and have a 2024 Ruby4xe model X. I bought a Hatchet Overland camper. Expensive, but worth it. Attaches to roof so actually insulates for sound, heat, a/c. It goes up or down in 2 minutes, excellent airflow with fine screened windows. No lift-off since attaches to roof and sits in the gutters. Can leave bedding, pillows, comforter, 4 inch self inflating mattress (comes with it) up when closed. Speed and ease of opening and closing means You can open/ close many times per day. Circumferential velcro stops no see-ums and anything else that does not want to tear or chew thru marine grade canvas. The camper stays on top permanently and increases vehicle height to about 6’8”. Mileage decreases by 1.25 mpg. It is for folks who like to camp but are old, weak, less nimble, or just bone ass- lazy (I check all of those boxes). Even better the camper is accessed from inside the Jeep towards the back, is an easy climb, and allows u to stand up if u are under 7’ tall. This makes it easy to change clothes in any weather wash up, or even use your own version of a go-pro😅. Lots of room for travelling companion. Has an LCD light, USB plug, two deep trays for phone, glasses, or Glock. Room for two 200W solar panels on top and comes with solar panel atrachments and wiring. I think it needs more security in front, so I plan tie-downs to hood eyelets. Clamps would be better. Remember the pricey part, but the value is definitely there. I thought it was ideal for this solo long and short term rock crawler, overlander and camper.
I drink too much for a roof top tent. Water that is. I don't wanna fall out in the middle of the night trying to get down.
I actually did stay in a rooftop tent in Africa, where there WERE lions and stuff roaming around... I didn't feel much safer just because I was a few feet off the ground in what amounted to a flimsy fabric box! You nailed it at the end.. rooftop tents are for Instagram only
Agreed. The San Francisco Zoo had two Big Cats jump over their enclosure barrier--which is a lot taller than that roof rack, and kill/ maul zoo visitors who were tormenting them. A thin piece of fabric isn't going to protect you even at rooftop height.
@Col Smith We used to camp on Rat Island (Cairns) as kids in scouts amongst the taipans and crocodiles in the 70's in old canvas tents. We didn't manage to lose anyone. But I notice last time I was up there the whole area was sign posted. I also used to walk to school uphill both ways...
I roof top tented several times in South Africa....I slept better being off the ground. (Black Mambas) I prefer a UEV 490...until then. RTT.
@@Didewro Yes, UEV 490 is certainly a nice idea which would set you back at least $76K AUD (about $56K US). For the US audience I'd say, there are much cheaper options... LOL
Some people don't realize that instagram influencers are just people who personify advertisement. Influencers get free nice stuff from their friends who sell that kind of stuff in exchange for the advertising value. Any product seen on instagram is probably worse than it appears.
Have camped in the southwest/great basin region for 45 yrs. Once you set up camp your done. Throw out my Walmart tent. Boom done. Drive away. 29.99 tent lasted for years. Including my dogs ,cattle dog and shepherd they don't like ladders. How about camping under trees. Night time bathroom call, long way down. If it gets too cold sleep in the back of my lr3.
Thanks for the honest look at rtt. So many people on UA-cam just seem to be really rich influencers that get those tents for free so that they have to push these products on us. This video is a breath of fresh air.
This is exactly why I drag around a converted cargo trailer that suits my needs.
This guy knows what's up.
Yep. When I got my first four-wheel drive, an '87 Suzuki Samurai that I bought new, I bought a surplus M-416 military cargo trailer to conquer having little cargo capacity in the vehicle. I still have the M-416, after having gone through: '89 Isuzu Trooper RS short-wheelbase; '73 Bronco; '87 Montero; '92 Cherokee 2DR; '87 Pathfinder; '98 Jeep TJ; 2007 4X4 Ranger, up to the 2004 Nissan Xterra I'm running now. That M-416 with it's pintle hitch arrangement will go everywhere the vehicle pulling it can, but it doesn't have to. I can tow it someplace, set up camp, and leave it where camp is, and go exploring in my vehicle without it, if I want to.
I paid $750.00 for the trailer. Every time I have it out, someone offers to buy it from me, for a whole lot more than I paid for it. It's a zero-depreciation accessory. A roof-top tent probably isn't.
I've been camping my entire life; camping in places one had to have high-clearance, low-range four-wheel drive to get to. I've made it 56 years with ground-pitched tentage and reckon to keep on getting by just fine with it, going forward.
@@jerroldshelton9367 much respect sir.
We started using an rtt on our Expedition built Tacoma for camping and loved it at first. But we went full time in it in the winter of 2017 and it became quite a bit of work taking down and setting up every 3-5 days when we had to break down and refresh water tanks. The wind was a nightmare all night long flapping material. Rain, cold, etc...
You don't need a tent to be level. It's great when it rains cause you don't have to put away a wet muddy tent.
We ended up buying an All Terrain Warrior. Quite expensive but we lived in it full time traveling.
The thing I wonder about is drying the tent before moving for the day. When I used to car camp, a lot of times the tent was damp with dew in the morning and we would have to wait for the sun, or pack it up damp which wasn’t great. Seems like a big problem in a RTT.
This does happen. We have had dew on our tent plenty of times when we closed up. Never had mold. Just need to open it in the sun for 30 minutes within 24 hours is my rule. Hardshell tents pop right open, so it's not a issue at all to be able to fix the problem, even in a parking lot.
Dew is more of a problem inside the tent because it's so thick. We sleep with a window open to fix that.
Because ground tents don't get damp...smh.
@@kayakuprising5914 because you can shake out a ground tent... Smh
Mine is on a trailer so once I'm set up I'm free to drive around. The trailer has leveling jacks. When I don't carry my trailer I have a ground tent, several actually. I can afford all of it.
Thank you! As many ppl look into buying one of these and so was I.
I no longer want one! Your arguments are so valid and convincing you will never see me put one of these on my car! Thanks again!
Well said. Even though I change locations daily I do agree that having to breakdown your setup for a short trip is a pain.
Not solely a roof top tent problem. Regular RV or a truck camper you still have to level the vehicle/jacks pop top open/sides put away everything that would move while driving every day.
Trailer is sweet - more space maybe bathroom etc. But of course costs allot more (even the cheapest tiny teardrop costs 5x what this tent costs new vs new) and has all the driving issues (parking, reversing, u-turn, and additional off-road clearance issues).
Regular ground tent is nice, but usually takes more time (esp. if you need air mattress etc), huge pain if the ground gets wet - I usually use a extra tarp under but more to carry and put away. And i don't think there would be LESS mice with a tent on the ground?
Everything has tradeoffs.
I wrestled with the tent option for my Tacoma, at the end spent $800 for a softopper and made a thermo liner for it. My mpg/handling stayed the same, no top heavy weight of the tent plus rack, I like the stealth and ease of just closing the back gate and heading out. Nice review 👍
Tacomas suck. I will never own one again.
@@danielr.9708 cry harder
Great points. I have an hard shell RTT rhat i got for a great discoubt due to a few scratches. I think the RTT is great for true overlanding where you've done your offroading and exploring and ready to rest up for the night and move to new locations the next few days. For camping at Yellowstone or other areas where you need a base camp, it's not ideal. For that type of trip I have a ground tent. Each has its pros and cons.
I’ve never tried a roof top tent but I am a big believer in the swag experience. They’re easy to set up and take down, don’t cost much by comparison, do great in the wind, comfortable to sleep in, and give you a more immersive experience. I’m a little surprised they haven’t caught on more in the states and I think it’s because a lot of people want to advertise how adventurous they are by having a RTT.
Every day I'm coming around more and more to exactly what you're saying. The RTT seems cooler when you see the rig driving down the road, but the Swag makes so much more sense.
There are already lots of models and lots of real world experience with people using them. Somebody just needs to just bring them to the states.
What's the advantage of a swag over an actual tent, backpacking or regular?
I used a King's Big Daddy Deluxe for several nights. The included pad was worthless, took just as long to set up as a regular tent, and the cargo space the rolled swag takes up is insane.
Again, what's so great about the Swag?
@@thelandcruiserprojectthey are bulky when rolled up, but if you have the space for them, they are much more comfortable and faster to set up than a backpacking tent. My Crashpad is a 2 pole design and it takes about 2 1/2 minutes to set up and it has a 3” foam mattress inside. They are much much quieter in the wind than nylon tents.
@@thelandcruiserproject The kings ones aren't really a very good example, kings stuff is cheap for a reason, some of it is good (i have a lot of kings stuff) some of it is pretty ordinary. This comment reads like somebody taking a GWM ute for a spin, hating it and then saying that they wouldn't buy a landcruiser ute because utes are shit just coz the cheapest shittiest one they could find wasn't great. My Darche swag is quicker to set up than my fast setup tent (which is pretty fast), and I can (just) fit it on the back of my motorbike without being too wide if i wanted to (I'd look a little silly but I have put it on there to see). The canvas is great, the mattress was ok but i prefer to use a quality self-inflating in there or set it up on a stretcher that adds a minute or so to set up. I can leave the sides unzipped and rolled up and look at the stars in summer (through the flymesh) and i can get as much or as little ventilation as I want. it's great for one person. More than one person i'd be using a tent anyway coz I'd be bringing the fam so i didn't bother getting an oversized behemoth of a swag like the big daddy deluxe. It takes up a little space but not excessively so in the back of the ute or on the roofrack
Part of why total hard shell non expanding beyond size of roof and just for short overnights seems still fine. Your points are all solid and ones that have me viewing the one I am looking at. There are a few options more economical now than in years past.
I sleep in the truck hard shell topper and put the gear in the tent each night. If you have ever tried to sleep in the wind where the tent flaps loudly all night, you will do the same.
Completely agree with you. I think this trend is pretty ridiculous, and in a few years it will fade away. Every time I see one on a burly truck I think, "Big tough guy, big tough truck, but afraid to sleep on the ground because of bugs and spiders." If you're out on the African savanna where something can seriously eat you that's different, but in North America I think they're highly unnecessary. (Same people buy these who spend $400 plus on a Yeti cooler . . .)
Bears.. elk.. moose.. coyotes.. rattlesnakes.. you must not get out into the wild in North America much...🤔
Look up the number of people that die each year from being attacked by each of those animals. Look at the number of attacks that didn’t kill people. Your list isn’t as deadly as the data says.
@@kwaynesatuckle5631
So.. you live your life by statistics, not experience.. and based on fatalities, not on unreported direct contacts.. sorry to hear.. that’s sad…
I love that you covered the Tepui hardware. My tent blew off the back of my truck on a super windy day. The mounting hardware is garbage. I bought a small trailer with a tip out tent and couldn't be happier.
Thanks for making this! I love our RTT and I did a lot of research before purchasing and it works phenomenally for our style. That being said, a lot of people don’t really know what they’re getting into and this video will greatly help them decide if it is the relight fit.
Most of these issues seem to be issues for this specific tent. The overall weight on the roof, and the center of gravity shift are my biggest concerns.
Exactly.
A lot of them are also issues for normal tents depending on location and such.
when stationary, most cars can handle over 5 times of their maximum declared roof-load-capacity without an issue.
the roof load only really matters for when youre driving due to ur higher centre of gravity
Center of gravity off road is huge unless your idea of "offroad" are those nice graded flat dirt roads. When you're on a steep side incline like the start of Behind the rocks, you don't want 120lbs up high helping to pull you over.
And stresses suffered offroad are far worse offroad than on road. Search broken tent roof racks its common and happens even to custom built heavy duty offroad racks. A few hundred miles of corregated road rattling your vehicle causes metal fatigue.
@@exploresouthwest What about...some way to remove the stress/grinding metal?
Think shock absorbers, in effect...I had this issue with old Harleys. Stripped screws. Many stripped screws because they all need Loc-tite.
The number 1 thing i always tell people that ask about my RTT is that once its set up your stuck there until you decide to put it away. That's really the only thing I don't like about it. I can set it up and tear it down fairly quickly though. It works for me for certain camp situations but I am thinking about a simple sleep set up inside my 4Runner so I can go explore and move from location to location every day.
The shell on my Tundra works great...
I was on the fence about a rooftop tent but now that I heard how much street cred it will give me then I’m in! Totally getting one now and can’t wait to flex! Thanks for the great review!
Hahahaha selective hearing at it's best. That's all I heard too haha
Hahaha
hahaha i legit laughed out loud at this
Very helpful. I too am one of those people being lured in by the “coolness” of these tents. But your candidness has helped convince me it’s not worth it. Thinking about a trailer.
Yes!! Finally!! Been saying this a long time. They were initially used on Land Rovers in Africa, where there was a reason for it! You would sleep up there with a shotgun. Makes absolutely no sense in the US, and the price is just ridiculous. Part of camping is getting away from your vehicle!!
The US big. They make a lot of sense in a a lot parts of the US. That being said, it's not for me.
With my experience I have owned my rooftop tent for going on 5 months. I use it every weekend to take my side by side out. Honestly for the price I would do it again. I've owned sever different ground tents and they just don't hold water out like the pop up does. I do have an issue with condensation from my breath if it's winter time but not the biggest issue. I also like to camp during winter and being up off the ground in the snow is particularly ideal for me. I think its more of what the consumer wants out of the product compared to others. Maybe the design you have isn't the one you need to be satisfied. Also you could use bed camper Jack's to lift the tent off the truck without tearing it down if you wanted to leave and still have your spot. Then again not with the set up you have. I'm using a big heavy lumber rack and it works great.
As an Aussie, I'd go a good swag all the way. Can even be rolled up with sleeping back inside for quicker set up/pack up. No need to fear crocodiles, they only eat slow loud tourists. I agree with what you say about FTT. Added bonus here Down Under is most multi-story car parks have a height clearance of 2.2m (7'2") which means you have to park on the street, which is not always ideal.
It just sounds like you don’t like them. I use one often and love it. I and see lots of people using them without half the grumbles you have. Ditch your tent so people stop asking and go along your way. Life’s short, enjoy it.
Well said!
I did ditch it. Viewers told me they wanted to know why I'm getting rid of it. Many people who have RTTs are coming to the same conclusion, this comment section is full of them. And I think there are better options for what people need that cost less, and if I can convince them to not fall into the Gear Acquisition Syndrome trap maybe they can spend more time out camping than at home working to pay off a $2500 tent that doesn't really have any benefits over a $250 tent.
Sounds like it is an honest review to me. I don’t have one, so I am glad to hear his opinion. I can listen to the glowing reviews too, and then make my own decision.
@@rifleman1873 his review is telling people he doesn’t like them and convincing EVERYONE they are horrible when in fact they just aren’t for him. He low key tells people they are stupid to have one and that’s not how you review something.
@@PhatyMattyMcGee it’s his opinion and he’s sharing it in his channel. If the RTT works for you, then it’s all good. Like you said, life’s short, enjoy it. Cheers. 😊