If you’re an avid outdoors enthusiast and own a Toyota Tacoma, you know that having the right gear is crucial for a successful camping trip. One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a reliable shelter, and a roof tent for Tacoma is a great option to consider.
A roof tent for Toyota Tacoma is specifically designed to fit onto the bed of your truck, providing a secure and comfortable sleeping area that’s off the ground. It’s a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle of setting up a traditional tent or those who want to camp in areas where ground tents aren’t suitable.
In this article, we’ll review five of the best roof tents for Toyota Tacoma pickup trucks on the market, taking into account factors such as size, durability, ease of use, and value for money. Lets go!
Our Top 5 Picks for the Tacoma Roof Tent
- Best Overall: EZUNSTUCK Car Rooftop Tent
- Best Value: Thule Tepui Explorer Ayer 2 Rooftop Tent
- Large Tent: Smittybilt Overlander XL Roof Top Tent
- Premium Tent: Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 2
- 4 Season Tent: Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent
Guide to Choosing a Roof Tent for Tacoma
When choosing a roof tent for Toyota Tacoma, there are several factors to consider, including:
Consider Size and Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a roof tent for your Tacoma is size and capacity. Roof tents come in a range of sizes, from one-person tents to family-sized tents. Consider how many people will be using the tent and how much gear you will need to store to determine the right size for your needs.
Evaluate Materials and Construction
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing a roof tent is the materials and construction of the tent. Look for a tent made from high-quality materials that are durable and can withstand the elements. Additionally, consider the ease of setup and take down and ensure that the tent is easy to store when not in use.
Durability
Look for a roof tent that is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the elements. You want a tent that will last for many camping trips to come.
Ease of Use
Choose a roof tent that is easy to set up and take down, and that doesn’t require any special tools or equipment. You want a tent that you can set up quickly and easily, without any hassle.
Ventilation
Look for a roof tent that provides good ventilation, especially if you’re camping in hot or humid conditions. Good ventilation will help keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night.
Look for Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you when choosing a roof tent for your Tacoma. Some tents come equipped with built-in lighting, storage pockets, and other features that can enhance your camping experience.
Types of Roof Top Tent
Hard Shell Roof Top Tents
Hard shell roof top tents are the most durable and weather-resistant type of roof top tent. These tents feature a hard, clamshell-style roof that opens up to reveal a spacious sleeping area. They typically have a more aerodynamic design than other types of roof top tents, and some models even come with built-in insulation to help regulate temperature.
Soft Shell Roof Top Tents
Soft shell roof top tents are made of durable, water-resistant fabric that is supported by a sturdy aluminum or fiberglass frame. They are typically more affordable than hard shell roof top tents, and they can be set up and taken down quickly and easily. Soft shell tents are also lighter in weight than hard shell tents, making them a good choice for vehicles with lower weight limits.
Pop-Up Roof Top Tents
Pop-up roof top tents are similar to soft shell roof top tents, but they feature a unique design that allows them to be set up and taken down in just a few minutes. These tents typically have a collapsible frame that folds up into a compact package when not in use. Pop-up roof top tents are a good choice for campers who want a tent that is easy to set up and take down, but still provides a comfortable sleeping space.
Trailer-Mounted Roof Top Tents
Trailer-mounted roof top tents are a popular option for campers who prefer to tow a trailer behind their vehicle. These tents are typically mounted on a small trailer that can be detached from the vehicle and set up as a separate sleeping area. Trailer-mounted roof top tents can be a good choice for families or groups of campers who need more sleeping space than a traditional roof top tent can provide.
Hybrid Roof Top Tents
Hybrid roof top tents are a newer type of roof top tent that combines the features of both hard shell and soft shell tents. These tents typically have a hard shell top that opens up to reveal a soft shell sleeping area. Hybrid roof top tents offer the durability and weather-resistance of a hard shell tent, combined with the affordability and ease of setup of a soft shell tent.
5 Best Roof Top Tents for Toyota Tacoma
1. EZUNSTUCK Car Rooftop Tent
If you’re looking for the best roof top tent for your Toyota Tacoma, then the EZUNSTUCK foldable roof top tent is an excellent investment for adventurers who are always on the move. It is a great way to save on accommodation costs while on the road. This product is lightweight and easy to set up, making it perfect for solo travelers or couples.
We also discussed about this roof top tent on the Tundra Roof Top Tent guide. And one of the most notable features of this product is its lightweight design. At only 132 pounds, it is significantly lighter than other similar-sized products, making it easy to carry around.
Additionally, the aluminum alloy shell makes it more durable than other materials, and the UV-resistant baking paint ensures it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
The tent’s waterproof and breathable fabric makes it a great investment for any type of weather. It has a waterproof capacity of 20000mmH2O and a moisture permeability rate of 10800g/㎡·24h, ensuring that it can effectively discharge the moisture generated by breathing.
Overall, the tacoma roof tent is an excellent investment for outdoor enthusiasts. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and spacious interior make it a must-have for anyone who loves to travel and explore the great outdoors.
2. Thule Tepui Explorer Ayer 2 Rooftop Tent
This is one of the best roof top tent for great camping setup. The Thule Tepui Explorer Ayer 2 Rooftop Tent is the perfect choice for adventurers who enjoy camping in any season. It is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it the perfect shelter for year-round adventures. The tent is available in two colors – blue and haze gray, providing an option to suit different preferences.
Constructed from a coated 600 denier and a 260g poly-cotton blend, the tent fabric is durable, UV resistant, and able to withstand the elements of any season. The welded aluminum tube with insulation and aluminum cap sheet provides additional protection and insulation from extreme temperatures. The mesh panels offer ample ventilation and can be opened for more airflow, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience.
The tent can accommodate up to two people and includes four large internal pockets for storing gear and outdoor accessories. The high-density foam mattress offers added comfort and ensures a good night’s sleep.
Overall, this rooftop tent is a great investment for adventurers who enjoy year-round outdoor. Its sturdy construction, ample ventilation, and comfortable sleeping arrangement make it a reliable and practical choice for any outdoor trip. The added convenience of the internal pockets makes it easier to organize gear and accessories.
3. Smittybilt Overlander XL Roof Top Tent
Smittybilt’s Overlander Tent XL is the perfect roof top tent for those who love camping with their family and friends. The tent can accommodate up to four people, making it a great option for a group of friends or a family with children. This durable roof top tent can be set up in seconds, thanks to its one-man operation, which eliminates the need for tent pegs and ropes.
The tent’s heavy-duty 600D ripstop polyester construction ensures it is fully waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain.
The tent comes with mosquito screens to keep bugs out, and a 60mm high-density foam mattress with a removable cover, ensuring that you have a comfortable sleeping experience.
The Overlander Tent XL has several useful features, including telescoping aluminum ladder, LED strip interior light, anodized aluminum frame poles, and mounting brackets. However, it’s important to note that this XL tent is meant for trailer use only and not compatible with SRC cage kits.
Its easy one-man operation, waterproof construction, and comfortable sleeping arrangements make it an ideal choice for any outdoor adventure.
4. Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 2
If you are searching for the best roof top tent for your Tacoma, then the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 2 is right for you. The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 2 Standard Roof Top Tent is a premium product that any camping enthusiast would love to have. Made from 600D Heavy Duty Poly Cotton Rip Stop Canvas, this tent is built to last and can withstand all weather conditions.
The marine grade stainless steel hinges and hardware ensure the tent is sturdy and durable. The tent also features an insulated diamond plate base and a waterproof rainfly for added protection.
The tent is not only durable but also functional with easy to use features. The 4 season weather protection makes it perfect for any adventure. The tent is easy to install and deploy and can be easily stored away when not in use.
The tent’s star-gazing capabilities are also unmatched, thanks to its integrated skylight in both the body and rainfly. The 3” high density foam mattress with black quilted cover ensures a comfortable night’s sleep.
The tent is also designed to withstand high winds and bad weather conditions, making it perfect for any outdoor adventure. With ample storage space and dimensions of 55″ x 95″ x 51″, the tent can accommodate up to three people comfortably. The tent comes with a 96” telescoping ladder and a 4 Year Limited Lifetime Warranty, making it a product you can buy with confidence.
5. Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent
The Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent with a high-density foam double/full mattress and a 661 lb. max load is an excellent option for two to three people. The tent has many features that make it a perfect camping companion, including a 600D heavy-duty waterproof top and rainfly, sunroof, and side windows with mosquito netting. Anodized aluminum tent frame poles and a telescopic ladder ensure the tent is sturdy and easy to set up.
The tent also features interior LED strips, making it easy to see inside at night. The heavy-duty PVC cover ensures that the tent remains dry and free from UV rays when not in use.
Moreover, the Smittybilt Tent Annex (sold separately) with a removable floor can be attached to the tent with heavy-duty zippers, providing additional privacy. The tent is also available in size XL, which can accommodate three to four people.
The roof top tent is versatile, accessible from both the driver’s and passenger’s side, and has an extra-wide ladder system that is six inches wider than standard. It also comes with an external shoe storage bag, a 12V cigarette lighter-power adapter, and a heavy-duty travel bag.
The tent is severe weather-tested, water column tested at 1500mm, and has mosquito nets that are CE-approved. With a one-year warranty, this tent is an excellent investment for camping enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the standard size tent with its many features, including a high-density foam mattress, mosquito nets, sunroof, and side windows, is an excellent option for camping enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a tent on the roof of a Tacoma?
Yes, you can put a tent on the roof of a Tacoma. Many Tacoma owners opt for rooftop tents as they offer convenience and versatility. However, it’s important to ensure that the roof rack is strong enough to support the weight of the tent and the occupants.
Do rooftop tents damage the roof?
Rooftop tents are designed to be installed on roof racks, which are specifically designed to distribute weight evenly across the roof of the vehicle. When installed properly, rooftop tents do not damage the roof of the vehicle. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct roof rack and mounting hardware to ensure the tent is secure and stable.
Is it worth getting a roof top tent?
Whether a rooftop tent is worth getting depends on your personal needs and preferences. Rooftop tents offer several benefits, including convenience, ease of setup, and elevated sleeping. They’re also great for camping in areas where the ground may be wet or uneven. However, they can be expensive, and some models may require a strong and compatible roof rack for installation. Consider your camping style, frequency, and budget before deciding if a rooftop tent is worth the investment.
How fast can you drive with a roof top tent?
The speed limit for driving with a rooftop tent is the same as for any other vehicle. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the extra weight and height of the tent may affect the handling and stability of the vehicle, especially in high winds or during sharp turns. It’s recommended to drive at a safe and reasonable speed and to be aware of any weight restrictions for your roof rack and tent. Additionally, it’s important to ensure the tent is properly secured before driving to avoid any accidents or damage to the tent or vehicle.
Final words
In conclusion, choosing the right roof top tent for your Toyota Tacoma can greatly enhance your outdoor adventures. The five roof tents we have discussed in this article each have their unique features and benefits. Whether you prioritize convenience, durability, or comfort, there is a roof tent out there for you. Remember to consider factors such as weight capacity, ease of setup, and compatibility with your Tacoma’s roof rack when making your selection. By investing in a quality roof tent for toyota tacoma, you can elevate your camping experience and create unforgettable memories on the road.
Anthony is a passionate outdoor enthusiast with a love for adventure and exploring the great outdoors. With years of experience hiking, camping, and rafting, he has a wealth of knowledge to share with others. Anthony’s writing captures the essence of his experiences, offering readers insights into some of the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes in the world. Follow his journey and join the conversation as he continues to share his passion for the great outdoors.