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Types of rooftop tents and key points for choosing one
Which rooftop tent should you choose? A thorough comparison by type!
Rooftop tents are gaining attention as an item that makes camping and sleeping in your car more comfortable. However, many people may be wondering, "Which type should I choose?" or "Will it fit my car?"
Rooftop tents come in several types, including soft and hard types, each with its own unique characteristics.
This guide clearly explains the differences between various types of rooftop tents, important points to consider when choosing one, and how to avoid making a mistake. We also provide guidance on choosing colors and sizes, so please use this as a reference before purchasing.
Choosing the right color for long-term, comfortable use of your rooftop tent
The color of your tent affects not only its appearance but also its ease of use and maintenance. In the outdoors, dirt and scratches are unavoidable, so choosing a color that doesn't show these easily is important because it allows you to continue using it without worrying about its appearance.
Furthermore, by choosing colors that blend naturally with the surrounding landscape, you can create a calm atmosphere even in a quiet campsite.
Choosing colors to enhance your outdoor experience
The color of a rooftop tent affects not only its appearance but also its comfort and ease of use. Especially in the outdoors, dirt from mud, sand, and abrasion is unavoidable. Considering the environment in which it will be used, earth tones such as green and beige are easy to handle because dirt is less noticeable and they blend well with the natural scenery. Calm colors also provide peace of mind for long-term use.
PeakPod comes in three colors.
Peakpod offers three colors: Olive (black & dark green), Frog (double green & orange), and Sand (double beige & black). All colors blend easily with natural landscapes and are perfect for the outdoors, offering a calm and sophisticated look. They are resistant to dirt and scratches, ensuring long-lasting and comfortable use. Choose the color that best suits your needs and preferences.
To avoid making a mistake when choosing the size of your rooftop tent
When choosing a rooftop tent, it's crucial to carefully check the size both when packed and when unfolded. Especially if you're planning to use it in a kei car or small SUV, miscalculating the size can lead to problems with loading and setup. Below, we'll introduce key points for choosing the right size, based on actual product dimensions.
Thule Tepui Kukenam (soft shell)
Storage size: Approximately 122 x 143 x 31 cm
Expanded size: Approximately 244 x 142 x 132 cm
Weight: approx. 54kg
This spacious tent is designed for 2-3 people, offering ample sleeping space. However, it weighs over 50kg, so physical strength is required for installation and transport. Setting it up requires space on both sides, so securing a suitable location for the awning is also important.
YAKIMA SkyRise HD Small (Softshell)
Storage size: Approximately 125 x 110 x 29 cm
Expanded size: Approximately 124 x 215 x 107 cm
Weight: approx. 52kg
This model is designed for two adults and features a design that prioritizes comfort. It comes standard with a thick mattress, ensuring cushioning during sleep. When setting it up, it spreads out widely to the side of the vehicle, so care must be taken regarding the distance to adjacent campsites and parking position. It weighs over 50 kg, so assistance is required when lifting it.
PeakPod (air structure)
Storage size: 80 x 35 x 50 cm
Expanded size: 185 x 200 x 163 cm
Weight: approx. 17kg
This is a lightweight and compact model. When stored, it is less than half the size of a typical tent, making it easy to fit into narrow garages and storage spaces. Weighing only about 17kg, it can be easily carried and loaded by one person. When set up, it provides enough space for two adults to comfortably relax, offering a well-balanced design that combines compactness with comfort.
Choosing the right size rooftop tent is a crucial factor directly impacting comfort. Weight, packed size, and ease of setup all affect daily usability.
The PeakPod is characterized by its lightweight design (approximately 17kg) and space-saving storage. It can be loaded into a small car and is designed to be handled by one person, making it ideal for those who want to start outdoor activities or those who are unsure about setting up camp.
If you're looking for a rooftop tent that's easy to use, please consider Peakpod.
Features and appeal of soft rooftop tents
There are several types of rooftop tents, but the "soft type" is popular because it is easy to use, even for first-timers. Below, we will introduce its basic structure and features.
What is a soft type?
Soft-type rooftop tents are made of fabric and feature a foldable structure. They are protected by a special cover when stored and typically expand widely to the side of the vehicle when deployed. They offer ample sleeping space and are relatively lightweight and easy to handle, making them a popular choice for those introducing a rooftop tent for the first time.
Its relatively affordable price range makes it easy to implement, which is another reason for its popularity.
Comparing the differences between hard and soft types
Rooftop tents come in two types: "hard type" and "soft type," each with its own unique features. Comparing them as follows will help you choose the type that best suits your needs.
Why choose a soft rooftop tent?
Soft-sided rooftop tents are popular because they are lightweight, spacious, and affordable, making them easy to start with. Many models weigh between 20 and 40 kg, and many can be loaded into a small car. When unfolded, they often expand horizontally, providing enough space for 2 to 3 people to comfortably relax. With many products priced between 100,000 and 200,000 yen, they are also recommended for first-time users.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using a soft rooftop tent.
For example, setting up and taking down the tent takes some effort. You need to remove the cover, unfold the floor, and erect the frame, so it takes time until you get used to it. On windy days, the fabric is easily blown around, so you need to pay attention to stability during setup.
Taking these points into consideration, it's important to choose a rooftop tent that suits you based on "how you want to use it" and "what kind of car you'll be putting it on."
Easy-to-set-up Peakpod rooftop tent
While rooftop tents are convenient, many people have concerns such as "they take a long time to set up and take down" and "they are not stable on windy days."
Peakpod sells rooftop tents that are designed for ease of setup, aiming to reduce such anxieties as much as possible and allow people to enjoy the outdoors more casually.
Peakpod tents feature an air structure that allows them to be set up without the use of tools.
Because it stands firmly on its own just by inflating it with air, even first-time users or those who are not confident in their strength can easily unfold it in just a few minutes.
Weighing approximately 17kg, it's extremely lightweight and small enough to fit in a kei car (mini car). It folds up compactly for easy transport and storage.
When unfolded, it provides ample space for two adults to comfortably relax, making it ideal for days when you have a lot of luggage.
Even on days when you have a lot of luggage, you can experience the ease of "quickly unfolding and quickly putting away" this product.
Roof tents and car roof tents that attach to the roof of your car, and a column about useful camping gear.
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What is load capacity? Basic information you need to know before installing a roof tent on a Jimny
03
Rooftop tent sales information and points to check before purchasing
04
Types of rooftop tents and how to choose them
For advice on rooftop tent types and how to choose the right one, contact peakpod.
Company Name
N.FACTORY Co., Ltd.
main office
337-1 Komura-cho, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 791-1125