Adventure begins the moment you climb up here. That first night in your smittybilt roof top tent changes everything. You’re off the cold, hard ground and tucked into a real mattress under the stars. The world feels quieter, more vast. It’s not just a tent; it’s your personal treehouse for anywhere.
So, is it worth the hype and the setup? We spent months putting this rugged shelter through it’s paces. From desert winds to mountain rain, here’s the real deal on what makes it great and where it might give you a little grief.
Product Comparison Table: 8 Best Smittybilt Roof Top Tent
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Jiadrooe Hard Shell Roof Top Tent with Adjustable Roof…
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9.7 |
Read Review |
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BAMACAR Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell 2-3 Person Nature…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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VEVOR Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Roof Top Tents for…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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DAC DA2 Full-Size Truck Bed Tent for Caps– Fits…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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SmittyBilt Overland GEN2 Tent XL – SB2683
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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BAMACAR Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Nature Nest Roof…
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8.5 |
Read Review |
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Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for SUV & Truck Camping,…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
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Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Easy Set Up Pop…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 8 Smittybilt Roof Top Tent
Jiadrooe Hard Shell Roof Top Tent with Adjustable Roof Crossbars, 1-Minute Setup, 2-3 Person All-Season Camping Tent, Includes 3" Mattress, Ladder & LED Light – for SUV, Truck, Van(Standard Version)
The Jiadrooe Hard Shell Roof Top Tent is designed to get you from the road to rest in record time. Its core promise is a one-minute setup, thanks to a smooth hydraulic system that lets a single person deploy the tent effortlessly. When closed, its aerodynamic hard shell keeps wind noise and fuel drag to a minimum during travel. Sleeping off the ground means avoiding damp, uneven terrain. This tent tackles comfort and climate head-on.
Inside, you’ll find a thick, 3-inch high-density mattress that provides genuine support for a good night’s sleep. Beneath it, a specialized anti-condensation mat promotes airflow to prevent that clammy feeling, which is a game-changer in humid or cold conditions. The interior is practical too, with soft-touch ceiling lining and handy storage pockets to keep your essentials organized. Weather protection is built in with a durable, 280-gram ripstop canvas that’s fully waterproof.
You can enjoy the view and the breeze through the large mesh windows, which offer panoramic vistas and 360-degree ventilation while keeping bugs securely out. When the sun goes down, two built-in LED light strips illuminate the entire space, eliminating the need for clumsy lanterns. A key feature that sets this model apart are the adjustable aluminum roof crossbars.
BAMACAR Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell 2-3 Person Nature Nest Roof Top Tent Hardshell For Jeep SUV Van Pickup Truck Vehicle Trailer Car Camping Hard Top Claim Shell Overland Car Roof Rack Top Tents
The Bamacar Naturnest Rooftop Tent is a hard-shell shelter designed to turn your vehicle into a comfortable, elevated campsite. It’s built for 2-3 people and fits most Jeeps, SUVs, vans, pickups, and trailers with a proper roof rack. This tent gets you off the ground quickly, literally. The clamshell design pops up in about 30 seconds, meaning you can go from driving to sleeping in less than a minute, saving your energy for the actual camping. Durability is a core feature here.
The aircraft-grade aluminum shell is tough and pressure-resistant. It uses heavy-duty gas struts rated for 8000N of force, and they’re tested to last through tens of thousands of cycles. The fabric is a robust 310G polyester with a IPX6 5000mm waterproof rating, 99% UV shade, and is built to handle 6-level winds. They’ve even included an air conditioning channel port, making it a genuine four-season option for adding climate control. Inside, the focus is on sleep quality.
You get a 5cm thick foam mattress that contours to your body for solid support. The 99% blackout fabric ensures a dark environment, which is crucial for resting well in the early summer mornings or at a busy site. To adress moisture, the tent has internal condensation pads and marine-grade padding along with waterproof seals to keep the sleeping area as dry as possible. Storage and extras are well thoughtout. Inside, there are 10 partitioned storage bags for organization.
VEVOR Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Roof Top Tents for Car SUV Truck Jeep Van Camping, Rooftent with Telescopic Ladder Thick Mattress & LED Strip Light, 2-3 Person Family Camping Tent
The VEVOR Rooftop Tent Hard Shell is designed to turn your vehicle into a comfortable, elevated campsite. This hard-shell rooftop tent offers a practical solution for adventurers who want to setup camp quickly and reliably, weather your heading to a national park or a weekend fishing spot.
Its a spacious interior that comfortably fits two adults and one child, making it a great option for small families.
The triangular design uses inflatable poles for a setup thats remarkably fast, so you can go from driving to sleeping in just minutes. Just ensure your vehicle—be it a Jeep, SUV, truck, or van—has a roof weight capacity of at least 600 pounds to support it safely.
You can trust this tent in changeable conditions. The rainfly is made from tough 420D Oxford fabric with a 2000MM waterproof rating, while the main body uses a high-density polyester-cotton blend rated at 1500MM.
Both are coated with PU for added UV protection and insulation, shielding you from sun and rain. It’s built to handle wind, too, with reinforced aluminum support poles inside and a sturdy three-point support system formed by the aluminum base, telescoping ladder, and roof. When packed up, Velcro straps keep the shell securely closed.
Comfort is a key focus. Inside, you’ll find a thick foam mattress that resists sagging, providing a proper sleeping surface off the ground.
DAC DA2 Full-Size Truck Bed Tent for Caps– Fits Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Toyota Tundra, Tacoma (2005+), Tailgate ≥ 58" – Converts Truck with Cap into Camping Tent
The DAC DA2 Full-Size Truck Bed Tent is designed for truck owners who want to turn their vehicle into a reliable, comfortable campsite in minutes. If you drive a Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Toyota Tundra, or a 2005 and newer Toyota Tacoma with a standard-height camper shell, this tent is built specifically for your setup. It requires a tailgate that’s at least 58 inches wide to seal properly, so it’s important to note it won’t fit trucks with tall or extra tall toppers.
This isn’t just a generic cover; it’s a tailored solution that uses your existing truck cap as its primary structure.
Forget about complicated pole assemblies and frustrating setup routines. The DA2’s biggest advantage is it’s instant setup. You simply raise your rear cab window, lower your tailgate, and attach the tent. It secures directly to your camper top using a system of shock cords and durable, plastic-coated hooks that won’t scratch your truck.
In just a few moments, your truck bed is converted into a flat, elevated sleeping platform protected from the ground below. It’s a game-changer for sponatneous trips or after a long day on the road when you just want to rest.
Built for the realities of outdoor living, the tent is constructed from heavy-duty, water-repellant fabric that’s also treated to be fire retardant.
SmittyBilt Overland GEN2 Tent XL – SB2683
The SmittyBilt Overland GEN2 Tent XL – SB2683 is a rooftop tent designed to get you off the ground and into camp quickly. It’s built for overland adventurers who value a simple, sturdy setup and a comfortable nights sleep after a long day on the trail. Let’s break down what it offers so you can see if it fits your needs.
First, space is a major consideration. The tent’s open dimensions are 122 inches wide by 76 inches long, giving you a very roomy platform.
It comfortably sleeps three to four people, which is great for small families or friends sharing the journey. The integrated mattress is a king size, measuring 92.5 by 74.8 inches. This means you and your camping partners have genuine room to stretch out without fighting for space. The interior height is 51 inches, allowing most people to sit up easily to change clothes or just relax.
The construction details tell you alot about its durability.
The base uses a 1-3/16 inch thick aluminum and polyurethane sandwich panel. This design is key for being both strong and lightweight, and it provides excellent insulation from the cold of the roof rack below. The tent body is a neutral gray color, paired with a light gray rainfly. This color scheme helps with heat reflection on sunny days and blends nicely with most environments.
BAMACAR Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Nature Nest Roof Top Tent Hardshell Rooftop Tents for Jeep SUV Truck Van Car Camping Roof Rack Overland Hard Shell Car Top Tents
The BAMACAR Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell is designed to be your reliable, all-season shelter for vehicle-based adventures. It’s a hardshell rooftop tent that prioritizes quick setup, durable protection, and home-like comfort, so you can spend less time wrestling with gear and more time enjoying the outdoors.
One of the biggest advantages of this tent is it’s incredible speed. Thanks to robust 316 stainless steel gas struts, the entire unit pops up in roughly 30 seconds.
The high-precision hardshell design isn’t just for quick deployment; it’s built for long-term durability, engineered to withstand thousands of cycles. When it comes to weather, the Naturnest is truely built for anything. The 310G polyester fabric, integrated blackout layer, and aluminum shell work together to provide IPX6 waterproofing, high UV protection, and resistance to strong winds.
A key all-season feature is the dedicated air conditioning channel, allowing you to connect a portable cooling or heating unit directly inside the tent for extreme temperature control.
Inside, the focus is on restful sleep. You’ll find a thick, 5cm mattress that provides genuine support after a long day of activity. The 99% blackout fabric ensures a dark, sleep-conducive environment regardless of the time of day.
Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for SUV & Truck Camping, 3-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK – Universal Fitment with Rainfly & Ladder
The Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK Soft Shell Rooftop Tent is designed to get you off the ground and into adventure with a solid, reliable shelter. This 3-person tent fits universally on most SUVs and trucks, making it a straightforward solution for overland camping and weekend getaways. It’s built with a focus on durable materials to withstand the elements and provide a comfortable base camp wherever you park. Starting from the ground up, the tent features a heavy aluminum-plated base.
This rigid platform gives you a firm, flat sleeping surface, a real upgrade from uneven or rocky ground. The base is assembled using marine-grade stainless steel hinges and hardware throughout. This choice of material is crucial because it resists corrosion from rain, road salt, and humidity, ensuring the tent’s structure remains strong and functional season after season. You won’t have to worry about rusty bolts seizing up.
The soft shell fabric is robust and designed for outdoor use, providing solid protection from wind and bugs. The included rainfly adds an essential layer of waterproof security for those unexpected downpours, so you can sleep soundly even when the weather turns. Setup and takedown are generally quick, a key advantage of rooftop tents.
Naturnest Rooftop Tent Hard Shell, Easy Set Up Pop Up Tent for 2 Person Camping, Waterproof UV-Resistant Blackout Privacy 4 Season Tents for Truck, Jeep, SUV, Van, Trailer – Polaris Plus
The Naturnest Polaris Plus Rooftop Tent is a hard-shell pop-up designed to be your reliable, all-season shelter on the road. It combines robust engineering with thoughtful details to make your camping experience both simple and comfortable, letting you focus on the adventure instead of the setup. At its core, the tent features a full Aerospace Grade Aluminum Alloy Shell. This includes the corners, making the entire structure incredibly sturdy and resistant to deformation.
It supports up to 660 pounds and is built to maintain stability in severe wind and rain, giving you a secure base camp no matter the conditions. Setting it up is genuinely quick, utilizing reliable STABILUS gas springs that are tested for thousands of cycles without leaking or sticking, so you can pop it open and be ready in minutes. Your comfort and protection are prioritized with the Premium 310G Polyester Fabric.
This coated material achieves a waterproof rating of 3.5 and a windproof rating of 7, capable of withstanding over 3000mm of water pressure. It also blocks 99% of light for true blackout privacy and offers a 50+ UV protection score, shielding you from the sun. Details like YKK zippers ensure smooth, durable operation season after season. Inside, the 3-Layer Mattress Design provides a great night’s sleep.
Smittybilt Roof Top Tent Buying Guide
Vehicle mounting and a robust ladder are critical. After all, your entire shelter depends on them. This guide will help you pick teh right model for your adventures, focusing on the practical details that matter when you’re miles from home. We’ll look at the Smittybilt roof top tent range and key factors to consider.
Mounting System Compatibility
Before anything else, check your vehicle’s roof. Is it a bare roof rack, rain gutters, or a factory rail system? Smittybilt tents typically mount to standard crossbars. You need to ensure your crossbars can handle the tent’s weight plus occupants. What’s your dynamic (driving) weight limit? Exceeding it is a major safety risk. Getting this wrong means you can’t even start your trip.
Shell Construction & Weatherproofing
You’ll face rain, wind, and sun. A tent’s shell is it’s first defense. Look for durable, rip-resistant materials and a strong, stable frame. The rainfly should have a high hydrostatic head rating (e.g., 3000mm) and fully cover the windows. Good weather seals on the zippers are a must. Will it keep you dry in a sudden downpour? That peace of mind is priceless.
Mattress Comfort & Interior Space
This is your bedroom. A 2-3 inch thick foam mattress is standard, but check the density. Some feel great for a night; others support you for a week. Inside, can you sit up to change clothes? Is there gear storage or pockets for small items? Consider if the floor space fits your sleeping style, especially if you’re sharing it with a partner or a dog.
Setup & Takedown Mechanism
Imagine it’s getting dark, windy, or you’re just tired. How easy is it to deploy? Hard-shell tents pop up fast but cost more. Soft-shell models like many Smittybilts use a gas-strut assist for the cover and fold-out design. Practice in your driveway first! The best tent is one you’ll use without dreading the process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smittybilt Roof Top Tent
What vehicle can I put this on?
You need a vehicle with a roof rack or crossbars rated for the tents weight. Most SUVs, trucks, and even some cars with sturdy racks can work. Always check your vehicle and rack’s weight capacity first.
How many people does it sleep?
Most Smittybilt models comfortably sleep two adults. Some larger versions can fit three or four, but it will be cozy. It’s best to check the specific tent’s dimensions for your needs.
Is it hard to set up?
Not at all. A big advantage is the quick setup. Once you’re parked, you can usually have it open and ready in just a few minutes. Practice in your driveway first makes it even easier.
Can I leave it on my roof all the time?
You can, but it will effect your gas mileage due to the wind resistance. Many people install it for the season and remove it during the off-season. It’s designed to withstand the elements.
What about the mattress?
A foam mattress comes included. Most find it comfortable, but you can always add your own sleeping pad or topper for extra cushion if you like.
Is it warm enough for cold weather?
The tent material provides good wind and rain protection, but it’s not insulated. For cold weather camping, you’ll need a proper sleeping bag and pad rated for the temperatures you expect.
How do I maintain it?
Make sure it’s completely dry before folding it down for storage to prevent mold. Clean the fabric with mild soap and water as needed. Checking the hardware for tightness occasionally is a good idea too.
Closing Thoughts
Elevate your sleep setup above teh terrain. You gain more than just a comfortable bed. You get a reliable, secure spot that’s ready in minutes. It changes how you see a campsite. No more searching for flat, rock-free ground. You can set up almost anywhere and enjoy a better view from the moment you arrive. It’s a simple upgrade with a huge impact on your comfort and convenience.
For a straightforward path to better nights under the stars, consider the smittybilt roof top tent. It offers a great balance of durability, ease of use, and value. This tent helps you focus on the experience, not the hassle. Your next adventure, and a great night’s rest, is waiting just over the horizon. Start planning your trip.