We recently had the opportunity to take part in our very first convention, the Atlantic Outdoor Sport and RV Show. It was a hit for us for sure. We got an idea of what people are looking for, talked about our business and our vision for it, heard some great adventure stories - and most importantly - met a bunch of awesome people. Among the many that stopped to chat, there were lots of people who were mostly (and in some cases entirely) unfamiliar with rooftop tents (RTT), and we fielded a TON of questions. We think that's awesome and know it is what builds the community, but at the same time, we figured it made sense to put something here to live - for those of you who just aren't quite sure about the RTT's yet.
Before we start, let me get this out there... RTT's are not for everyone. They have a ton of benefits, and to us are the way to go, but there are other options out there that may be better for some. Yes, RTT's are still a tent. Yes, you have to climb a ladder to get into them (some higher than others!). No, it does not have a toilet in it. No, it does not have AC. We don't judge folks on their preferences - so lets just say if those things are deal breakers for you, you may as well stop reader here.
So, on to the why. Why an RTT? Well, there are lots of reasons, and some will matter more to some than others. So, in no particular order, here we go.
High and Dry
Have you ever ground camped in the rain? I mean a real heavy rain that lasts through the night. If you have, chances are you have woken up wet; and it really sucks. Enter the RTT.
Being elevated off the ground has some immediate benefits when it comes to wet (or cold) weather. You don't have to worry about ground water, or laying on the cold ground. Dry and warm are both good things when camping. Being off the ground offers other benefits too. It helps keep animals (or pests) away from your tent, and results in less dirt and debris being tracked inside. Also, who can argue with the morning view from on high? We'll certainly climb a few rungs on a ladder to rap the benefits that come along with it.
Quick Setup
If you've ever rolled into camp in the dark and then started the process of fighting with a ground tent - you know the value an easy setup. The same can be said for setting up in excessive heat, or pouring rain. Not all RTT's are created equal here, some tents offer you the ability to be in your shelter within 90 seconds of opening, while others may be closer to 5 - 8 minutes for the basic setup. Either way, as the open they are automatically up and ready to go, and offer you the ability to deploy and climb inside very quickly when needed.
Comfort
RTT's open to a flat, even surface, and have the ability to house a mattress. This combo provides for a comfortable sleep every time. No more waking up beside your mattress, on a rock or tree branch, and losing sleep as a result. We are talking about a portable bed here - how amazing is that?
Durability
RTT's last. Yes, how long does depend on how well you care for it - but in general they are more durable than your average ground tent. RTT's generally have a ripstop canvass which in itself if more durable than your average ground tent. Add to this the fact that they fold into a well protected bundle, they are less likely to suffer damage when packed away. This doesn't mean some ground tents aren't durable also, rather that most RTT's are.
Convenience
Have you ever opened your ground tent to find your bed made and ready to go inside?? No? Yeah, us neither. We have seen that in RTT's though, like in ours.... and its there every time we open it. Enough said - you get the picture.
Cost
I'm not going to say that RTT's are cheap, because they are not. However, they are very cost effective for what they offer compared to the alternatives. An RTT camping setup built over time and complemented with some other basic gear gives you the ability to go off grid and stay there for an extended time.
Last, but not least, the biggest factor for an RTT in my books:
Mobility
This is simple. Go farther. If your vehicle can get there, so can your shelter. Depending on your vehicles capability, you can get yourself to some pretty incredible spots. I won't try and say you can't get into tighter spots with a ground tent, because obviously you can. However, factoring in the comfort, and RTT and ground tent are not anywhere in the same ball park. The only thing that trumps an RTT for comfort is a trailer. With that in mind, think about this. When was the last time you saw an RV or 5th Wheel setup at the end of a long 4x4 trail where cell service ended an hour ago and all you can see around you is open wilderness? Think hard on this, the answer is important. That's right - you never have! Neither have we.
If you made it this far, thanks for hearing us out. The best judge on whether an RTT is right for you and your adventures is, of course, you. We hope our 2 cents helped you to better understand the advantages of an RTT, and the reason why we feel they are the way to go. Regardless of what you choose - always remember to disconnect, get outside, adventure, explore, and roam.