A sheltered workspace for repairs and detailing projects. That’s the simple promise of an automotive tent. It’s your instant garage, shielding you and your car from sun, rain, and curious neighbors. You get a clean, dedicated spot to work without the hassle of a permanent structure. It’s a game-changer for weekend warriors.
But is it worth the investment? We set one up, put it through it’s paces, and got our hands dirty to find out. This review covers the good, the bad, and whether this portable shelter truly lives up to it’s promise for your next project.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Automotive Tent
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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JOYTUTUS Pickup Truck Tent 6.5ft 2.0, Waterproof PU2000mm Double…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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Napier Backroadz Truck Tent | Pickup Truck Bed Camping…
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9.4 |
Read Review |
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TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch…
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9.2 |
Read Review |
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TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent Weather Resistant Portable…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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VEVOR SUV Camping Tent, 8′-8′ SUV Tent Attachment for…
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8.7 |
Read Review |
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VEVOR Truck Bed Tent, 6.4′-6.7′ Pickup Truck Tent with…
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8.5 |
Read Review |
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Camp Toad Universal SUV Tent Spacious Camping Attachment for…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person, 5.5-5.8 FT…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person, 6.4-6.7 FT…
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7.9 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Automotive Tent
JOYTUTUS Pickup Truck Tent 6.5ft 2.0, Waterproof PU2000mm Double Layer for 2 Person, Portable Truck Bed Tent with Rainfly, Green, Aluminum Pole
The JOYTUTUS Pickup Truck Tent 6.5ft 2.0 is designed to turn your truck bed into a comfortable, dry shelter for your outdoor adventures. It’s a practical solution for anyone who wants to camp without the hassle of finding a flat, clear tent site or sleeping directly on the ground.
Staying dry is crucial, and this tent is built for it. It uses a double-layer design with a PU2000mm waterproof coating on durable 210D polyester oxford fabric.
The included rainfly adds another layer of protection, and the tent floor has a seperate waterproof layer. This means rainwater is kept out, and you can even use an air mattress inside without worrying about moisture seeping in from the truck bed. The interior space is designed to stay clean and dry, so you can focus on relaxing.
Setting up camp should be easy, and JOYTUTUS has focused on straightforward installation.
The poles are color-coded to match the tent sleeves, helping you get the structure up quickly without confusion. A clear instruction guide is included. The company also stands behind the product; if a pole happens to break during your first proper setup, they offer a one-time free replacement.
Inside, the tent offers a spacious private area for two people. It measures approximately 102.3 inches long, giving you plenty of room to stretch out.
Napier Backroadz Truck Tent | Pickup Truck Bed Camping Tent | Rainfly for Water Protection | Sturdy and Spacious 2-Person Tent | Easy 10-Minute Setup
The Napier Backroadz Truck Tent is a clever solution for campers who want to take their home-on-the-road with them. Instead of searching for a flat, clear tent site, you simply park your pickup. This tent is designed to fit securely in your truck bed, turning it into a stable, elevated sleeping platform no matter where you’ve parked.
It’s a game-changer for roadside stops, festival camping, or remote trailheads where the ground is rocky or uneven.
Setting up camp is suprisingly straightforward. The tent features a color-coded pole system that guides you through the process, aiming for a complete setup in about ten minutes. You won’t be fumbling around for long after a day of driving. Nine adjustable straps secure the tent firmly to your truck’s bed, creating a tight fit that won’t flap excessively in the wind.
This attention to secure attachment is a result of Napier’s partnerships with automotive manufacturers, ensuring a reliable fit across five different models to cover most trucks on the road.
Weather protection is a major highlight. The tent includes a full-coverage rainfly, and all critical seams are taped to prevent water from sneaking in. Storm flaps cover the windows, door, and vents, so you can keep them open for air even during a light rain.
TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch and Awning for Family Camping, Weather Resistant and Portable Van or Car Tent, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 13' W X 10' L X 7.1' H, Orange
The TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch and Awning is designed to bridge the gap between traditional camping and the convenience of your vehicle. It creates a unique hybrid living space that expands your campsite and simplifies your outdoor routine. This tent is all about creating a spacious and practical basecamp. The main sleeping area measures 13 feet by 10 feet, offering enough room for up to five people.
With a center height of 87 inches, most campers can move around comfortably without ducking. The real genius is in its connection to your SUV, minivan, or pickup truck. A sewn-in sleeve creates a seamless tunnel from the tent directly into your vehicle’s trunk or tailgate. This gives you instant, sheltered access to all your gear and supplies, which is incredibly handy during a sudden rain shower or when you just need to grab a snack without stepping outside.
Organization and comfort are enhanced by two key features. First, the attached 6×8 foot screen porch acts as a mudroom and lounge. It’s the perfect spot to leave muddy boots, set up camping chairs, or store your cooler, keeping the main sleeping area clean and clutter-free. The integrated awning provides shade and a dry entryway. Second, the tent is built for various weather conditions. The PU2000-rated polyester fabric and included rainfly offer reliable water resistance.
TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch and Awning for Family Camping, Weather Resistant and Portable Van or Car Tent, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 13' W X 10' L X 7.1' H, Tan
The TIMBER RIDGE 5-9 Person SUV Tent with Screen Porch and Awning is designed to bridge the gap between traditional camping and the convenience of your vehicle. It creates a unique hybrid living space that expands your campsite and simplifies your setup.
At its core, this is a spacious shelter. The main cabin measures 13 feet by 10 feet, with a center height of over 7 feet, so most people can move around comfortably without ducking.
It’s sized to fit up to five people, with room for two queen-size air mattresses or multiple sleeping bags. The real standout feature is the attached 6×8 foot screen porch. This area acts as a mudroom and gear locker, a perfect spot to leave shoes, coolers, and camp chairs. It keeps the main sleeping area clean and organized, and the awning provides a shaded, bug-free space to relax. The tent easily connects to the back of your SUV, minivan, or pickup truck, creating a sealed passageway.
This gives you direct access to your vehicle’s cargo area, which is incredibly handy for grabbing supplies or snacks without going outside, especially if it’s raining.
Weather resistance is a key consideration. The tent body is made from PU2000 polyester fabric, which provides a reliable barrier against rain and moisture. For ventilation, it features multiple mesh panels, windows, and two doors.
TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent Weather Resistant Portable for Car SUV Van Camping, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 10' W X 8' L X 7.1' H Blue
The TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent is designed to bridge the gap between your vehicle and the great outdoors, creating a versatile basecamp for your adventures. It securely connects to the back of your SUV, van, or compatible vehicle, creating a seamless and sheltered extension of your trunk space.
This means you can grab gear or climb into bed without stepping out into the rain, and a handy E-port even lets you run a cord from your car’s power outlet to keep phones and gadgets charged inside the tent.
Once set up, you’ll appreciate the spacious interior. With dimensions of 10 feet wide by 8 feet long and a peak height over 7 feet, most people can stand up comfortably inside. The layout is designed to sleep up to five campers, making it a great option for families or small groups.
To help keep things organized, the tent includes two mesh storage pockets for stashing small items like flashlights, books, or glasses, so they’re not cluttering up the floor.
Weather protection is a key focus. The tent fabric features a PU2000mm waterproof coating and is made from durable polyester taffeta, offering reliable resistance against rain and wind. Ventilation is also well considered, with two mesh windows, a large mesh door, and even a top mesh skylight.
VEVOR SUV Camping Tent, 8'-8' SUV Tent Attachment for Camping with Carry Bag, Waterproof PU2000mm Double Layer Truck Tent, Accommodate 6-8 Person, Rear Tent for Van Hatch Tailgate
The VEVOR SUV Camping Tent is designed to bridge the gap between your vehicle and the great outdoors, creating a seamless and expanded living space for your adventures. If you’ve ever wanted to turn your SUV or van into a comfortable basecamp, this attachment tent offers a practical and roomy solution.
One of the tents biggest strengths is its versatility.
It’s compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, minivans, crossovers, wagons, and even Jeep Wranglers with hard tops or pickup trucks that have a bed cap. You can attach it directly to your vehicles open hatch or tailgate, creating a sheltered entryway, or you can set it up as a standalone tent if you prefer.
This flexibility means it adapts to your trip, whether your using it as a garage for gear or an extra sleeping area.
Inside, the tent provides ample space for 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or trips with friends. High-density mesh windows are strategically placed to promote excellent airflow, keeping the interior feeling fresh and reducing condensation. For those clear nights, a skylight allows you to enjoy the view while maintaining good ventilation.
VEVOR Truck Bed Tent, 6.4'-6.7' Pickup Truck Tent with Carry Bag, Waterproof PU2000mm Double Layer Truck Tent for Camping, Accommodate 2-3 Person, for Camping Traveling Outdoor Activities
The VEVOR Truck Bed Tent is designed to turn your pickup into a comfortable, weather-ready campsite wherever you park it. If you own a Ford F150, Dodge Ram 1500, GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra, or another truck with a 6.4 to 6.7-foot bed, this tent is built to fit.
It’s a straightforward solution for creating a sleeping space off the ground, making it perfect for spontaneous trips or planned adventures with family and friends.
Weather protection is a key focus here. The tent features a double-layer construction with a PU2000mm waterproof rating, meaning it’s built to stand up to rain. The 120g PE floor is fully sewn and treated with a waterproof pressing process, which helps keep the interior dry even during a downpour.
You won’t have to worry about waking up on a soggy floor. The structure is also built to handle wind, with a streamlined shape and thickened 9mm fiberglass poles that provide solid support, capable of withstanding force 5 winds for added peace of mind.
Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly roomy area. The center height reaches 5.58 feet, so most people can stand up comfortably to change clothes or move around. It comfortably accommodates two to three people for sleeping.
Camp Toad Universal SUV Tent Spacious Camping Attachment for SUV Car Van Minivan Hatchback and Truck Rear Door Setup for Outdoor and Tailgate Use with Most Automobiles with Screen Tent & Rainfly
The Camp Toad Universal SUV Tent is a spacious camping attachment designed to connect directly to the rear of your vehicle. It creates a seamless, sheltered extension of your SUV, truck, van, or hatchback, perfect for outdoor adventures and tailgate events. This tent is built to be a reliable, weather-ready shelter that simplifies your setup and expands your living space.
Fully updated for the 2023 season, this tent incorporates years of user feedback into a refined design.
The improvements adress common concerns, featuring genuine YKK zippers for smoother operation, optional poles to create extra headroom and space, and even more durable fabric construction. The attachment system has also been tweaked for an even closer, more secure fit with a wider range of automobiles, ensuring you get a great value.
One of the biggest advantages is the incredibly easy setup.
The user-friendly design means you can spend less time wrestling with poles and more time relaxing. Essentially, you just pull the tent over your open hatchback or rear door, use the provided straps and elastics to secure it tightly to your vehicle’s contours, and your basecamp is ready. It’s that straightforward, turning any parking spot into a comfortable campsite in minutes.
Inside, you’ll find a generous and practical space.
LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person, 5.5-5.8 FT Pickup Truck Tent with Waterproof Rainfly Oxford for Camping Travel Outdoor Chevy Silverado 1500 Dodge Ram 1500 Ford F-150 GMC Sierra 1500
The LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person is designed to turn your 5.5 to 5.8-foot pickup bed into a comfortable, off-ground campsite. It’s a straightforward solution for anyone who wants to camp with their truck without the hassle of finding flat, dry ground. Starting with protection, this tent is built from high-density polyester oxford fabric with a PU2000 waterproof coating. This, combined with the included waterproof rainfly, gives it superior water-resistant performance.
It’s made to handle rain, keeping you dry and comfortable even when the weather turns. The structure is supported by thickened 8.5mm fiberglass poles that provide real stability. They help the tent maintain it’s shape and resist strong winds, so you don’t have to worry about it collapsing or deforming overnight. The design also effectively keeps insects out.
Double-layer doors and windows feature fine mesh, allowing for essential airflow and a view of your surroundings while creating a bug-free zone for a peaceful sleep. A key thoughtful design feature is the special ventilation pipe at the front. This sleeve allows you to connect the tent directly to your truck’s rear window, seamlessly linking the two spaces. You can pass items back and forth or, very conveniently, use the power plugs from your truck inside the tent.
LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person, 6.4-6.7 FT Pickup Truck Tent with Waterproof Rainfly Oxford for Camping Travel Outdoor Chevy Silverado 1500 Dodge Ram 2500 Ford F-250 GMC Sierra 1500
The LIBERRWAY Truck Bed Tent for 2 Person is designed to turn your pickup into a comfortable, elevated campsite. It fits 6.4 to 6.7 foot truck beds, making it compatible with popular models like the Chevy Silverado 1500, Dodge Ram 2500, Ford F-250, and GMC Sierra 1500. It’s a straightforward solution for anyone who wants to camp off the ground without the hassle of a traditional tent setup.
You get superior water-resistant performance from the high-density polyester oxford fabric, which has a PU2000 waterproof coating. Combined with the included rainfly, this tent is built to handle rain and keep you dry during unexpected weather. The structure is also windproof, thanks to thickened 8.5mm fiberglass poles that provide stable support and prevent collapsing in strong gusts. You can sleep soundly knowing your shelter is secure. A major benefit is the insect-proof design.
The double-layer doors and windows feature fine mesh that keeps bugs out while allowing for excellent airflow and a clear view of your surroundings. This thoughtful design extends to a special ventilation pipe in the front of the tent. This tube connects to your truck’s rear window, seamlessly linking the two spaces. It lets you pass items back and forth and even access power plugs from your truck without going outside.
Automotive Tent Buying Guide
Secure your mobile base camp with teh right automotive tent. This isn’t just about shelter; it’s about creating a seamless, comfortable extension of your vehicle for sleeping, storage, or shade. The best choice depends on your vehicle, travel style, and the adventures you have planned.
Vehicle Compatibility & Attachment
First things first: will it fit your car or truck? Measure your vehicle’s roof, bed, or hitch area carefully. Some tents mount directly to roof racks, while others are designed for pickup beds or attach via a hitch-mounted frame. A mismatched tent is frustrating and unsafe, so double-check the manufacturer’s fit guide before you get too excited.
Material & Weather Resistance
You’re trusting this fabric to keep you dry and protected. Look for a robust, waterproof rainfly (measured in millimeters, like 1500mm or 3000mm) and a durable tent floor. Good seam sealing is non-negotiable for keeping leaks out. For sunny climates, a UV-resistant fabric will prevent premature wear and keep the interior cooler.
Setup & Ease of Use
Imagine it’s getting dark, the wind is picking up, and you’re tired from the drive. How quickly can you get this thing up? Pop-up frames or telescoping poles are a dream, while complex pole assemblies can be a headache. Practice in your driveway first—it makes a world of difference at the campsite and ensures you won’t miss any crucial steps.
Size & Livability
How many people need to sleep comfortably? Don’t just go by the “person” count; look at the floor dimensions. Consider if you need to store gear inside with you. Peak height is another key factor—can you sit up or even stand to change clothes? A little extra space is always worth it for long-term comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Automotive Tents
What is an automotive tent?
An automotive tent is a shelter that attaches to your vehicle, like an SUV or hatchback. It creates extra living space by connecting to your open trunk or liftgate. It’s like adding a room to your car for camping.
Will it fit my vehicle?
Most tents are designed to fit a range of vehicles. You need to check the tent’s size and your car’s measurements. Look at your rear opening height and width. The product listing should have a compatibility guide to help.
Is it hard to set up?
Not usually! Many models use color-coded poles and simple instructions. It often takes two people about 10-20 minutes for the first time. After that, it gets much quicker. Practice in your driveway before your trip.
How do you seal it to the car?
A sleeve or adjustable tunnel fits over your open trunk. Straps and buckles then secure it tightly. This creates a good seal to keep bugs and weather out. Make sure you roll up your windows before attaching it.
Can I use it as a standalone tent?
Some models can, but not all. Many rely on the vehicle for structural support. If you want that flexibility, look for a “hybrid” design that includes a removable groundsheet and extra poles. The product description should say.
What about condensation and ventilation?
Good ventilation is key. Always look for models with multiple mesh windows and roof vents. This allows air to flow and reduces condensation inside, which is a common issue in any tent.
Are they waterproof?
They are water-resistant, but check the hydrostatic head rating (like 2000mm or more). Sealed seams are also crucial. In heavy rain, water might pool on the roof near the car, so it’s good to check it occasionaly.
How do I maintain it?
Always pack it away dry to prevent mold. Clean it with mild soap and water, never harsh chemicals. Store it in a cool, dry place. Checking for wear on the straps and zippers each season helps it last longer.
The Short Answer
Your next road trip deserves this mobile shelter solution. It’s about making things simple and giving you more freedom. You can stop wherever teh view is good. You can sleep comfortably right next to your vehicle. Forget about booking hotels or worrying about last-minute campsite fees. This setup puts you in control of your own adventure, turning any scenic spot into a perfect place to stay.
So, consider what you really want from your travels. If it’s flexibility, comfort, and a direct connection to the outdoors, an automotive tent is a smart choice. It’s a straightforward upgrade that makes every trip smoother. Pack yours and get ready to hit the road with confidence, knowing your shelter is sorted. Your perfect spot is out there waiting for you.