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 just a couple of 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 open like a clamshell. 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
Summit Rooftop Tent — from £2,395
Our best-selling tent. Softshell design, quick 2-minute setup, high-density foam mattress. Compatible with vehicles from 75kg dynamic roof load. Perfect for weekend adventures and first-time rooftop campers.
THRE360 Rooftop Tent — from £2,695
A softshell tent with a unique panoramic viewing window — ideal for stargazing, sunrise watching, and photography. Same 75kg minimum load rating as the Summit.
Horizon Rooftop Tent — from £2,895
A low-profile clamshell hardshell with 80kg minimum load rating. Aerodynamic, opens in around 60 seconds, and perfect for vehicles that stay loaded year-round.
Discovery Rooftop Tent — from £3,295
Our flagship tent. Hardshell design, maximum headroom, best-in-range weather performance. Built for serious overlanders and extended trips. Requires 110kg dynamic roof load.
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.
All tents come with free UK delivery. Browse the full range here.
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