You’ve decided to get a rooftop tent, and now you’re thinking about the model, design, and accessories you want for your tent. But after considering everything you want, you start thinking, “can my car support all that weight?”. Depending on the kind of tent you want, the rack you need for mounting, and the accessories you would like to include, a rooftop tent’s weight could vary. Let’s take a look at the average weight of a tent, along with everything you need for it.
Why weight matters
Most vehicles can be fitted with a rooftop tent, provided that you use a quality rack or set of crossbars rated for at least 150 lbs. While safety is a primary concern when attaching anything to your car, using the appropriate mounting system can minimize risks. It’s essential to consider factors such as sudden stops, acceleration, and wind resistance while driving. By investing in a reliable and robust mounting system, you can ensure that your rooftop tent remains secure during your journey, maintaining the structural integrity of both the tent and mounting system for long-term use.
Having the right rack
Regardless of your car model, as long as it can handle additional weight, the next aspect to consider is your rack system. Any vehicle with a set of crossbars or a rack rated for at least 150 lbs should be suitable for supporting a rooftop tent. While off-road vehicles often come with factory-installed racks, it’s essential to verify if they can handle the average maximum weight of a rooftop tent (up to 200 lbs). Consult your car manual, manufacturer, or dealership for specific weight capacity information. If your current rack system isn’t rated for the required weight, you may need to explore third-party options for a more suitable solution.
The average weight of rooftop tents
On average, rooftop tents weigh around 150 lbs, though larger models may be heavier. When you factor in additional attachments and accessories, the total weight can approach 200 lbs. Although individual components such as canvas supports and accessories may seem relatively lightweight, their combined weight can be substantial. However, using a quality rack or set of crossbars rated for at least 150 lbs should be sufficient to support most rooftop tent models, ensuring a safe and secure setup for your camping adventures.
Conclusion
Conventional tents tend to be extremely lightweight, which is why people tend to underestimate the weight of rooftop tents. Overall the unique compact design, its sturdy build, and the mounting system needed, a rooftop tent’s weight is significantly heavier than a conventional tent. This is why it is essential to know your car and rack’s maximum weight limit before choosing your rooftop tent. When it comes to outdoor equipment, safety is the number one priority.
