Rooftop tents have transformed the way people camp in the UK. Instead of hunting for a flat patch of ground, you sleep elevated above your vehicle — away from mud, insects, and uneven terrain. Setup takes minutes, and the view from your sleeping platform is something a ground tent can't match.
But with dozens of tents now on the market, choosing the right one is harder than it used to be. This guide covers everything you need to know — from roof load ratings and mounting options to choosing between hardshell and softshell designs.
What to Consider When Buying a Rooftop Tent
1. Your Vehicle's Roof Load Rating
This is the single most important factor. Your vehicle has two relevant ratings:
- Dynamic load rating – the weight the roof can carry while driving. This determines which tents you can legally and safely carry.
- Static load rating – the weight the roof can support while stationary (i.e., while you're sleeping in the tent). This is almost always higher than the dynamic rating.
Most 4x4s and pickups have a dynamic rating of 75–100kg. Use our vehicle checker to see exactly which Escapade tent is compatible with yours.
2. Hardshell or Softshell?
Softshell tents fold flat and expand upward. Hardshell tents have a rigid aluminium shell that opens on gas struts. Softshells are generally better value and offer more space per kilogram; hardshells protect the mattress year-round and have a more aerodynamic profile. Read our full hardshell vs softshell comparison guide for a detailed breakdown.
3. Sleeping Capacity
Most rooftop tents sleep two adults comfortably. Some, like the Escapade Discovery, have enough room for two adults and a child. If you camp as a family, look carefully at internal dimensions rather than just the headline capacity.
4. Weight and Aerodynamics
A heavier tent affects fuel economy and handling. Hardshell tents are typically more aerodynamic when closed; softshells can catch more wind. If you regularly drive motorway distances, factor this in.
The Escapade Rooftop Tent Range
THRE360 Rooftop Tent — £1,350
A softshell tent with a powder-coated aluminium base and lid. It sets up in under a minute, and the 5cm memory foam mattress stays inside so it's always ready. Blackout 320gsm ripstop interior, LED light strip and bug mesh on every opening. Rated 4.75 stars by 24 customers, with free UK delivery. Compatible with vehicles from 75kg dynamic roof load. Clearance stock with Swing Away Tent branding is also available for £999.
Summit Rooftop Tent — £1,450
A softshell with a king-size 160 x 240cm sleeping area, 60mm high-density memory foam mattress and full blackout interior. Sets up in under two minutes and fits most vehicles with roof bars. Compatible with vehicles from 75kg dynamic roof load. A great first rooftop tent for couples and families.
Discovery Rooftop Tent — £2,300
Our largest tent, sleeping two adults and a child (218 x 152cm when open, 140cm high). It uses the same aluminium shell material as the Horizon with the closed profile of a softshell, plus gas-strut opening, a blackout interior and a triple sealing system when closed. A matching annex room and awning are available. Requires 110kg dynamic roof load.
Horizon Rooftop Tent — £2,600
A robust aluminium hardshell just 16.5cm tall when closed. Gas struts assist the opening, the lid doubles as a roof rack rated to 100kg for solar panels and light kit, and the memory foam mattress stays protected between trips. Sleeps two. Weighs approx. 80kg, with an 80kg minimum load rating.
What Roof Bars Do You Need?
All Escapade tents mount to standard crossbars (50mm minimum width). Most major brands — Thule, Yakima, Rhino-Rack, Rhino-Rack Pioneer, and factory roof racks — are compatible. Always check the bar's weight rating matches or exceeds the tent weight.
Check Your Vehicle Now
Use our free vehicle compatibility checker — select your make, model, series, and year and we'll show you which Escapade tents are compatible and why. Takes 30 seconds.
Fitting is available at our Swindon HQ, and the THRE360 ships free across the UK. Fitting and delivery options for each tent are shown on its product page. Browse the full range here.
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