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Types of rooftop tents and how to choose them
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 cars more comfortable. However, many people may be unsure which type to choose or worried about whether it will fit their car.
There are several types of rooftop tents, including soft and hard types, each with its own characteristics.
Here we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the differences between different types of rooftop tents, things to look out for when choosing one, and how to choose the right one. We will also introduce how to choose the right color and size, so please use this as a reference before purchasing.
Choosing the right color for long-term, comfortable rooftop tent use
The color of a tent not only affects its appearance, but also its ease of use and maintenance. Since dirt and scratches are inevitable when outdoors, choosing a color that doesn't show them easily is key so you can continue using it without worrying about the appearance.
Also, by choosing a color that blends in with nature, it will be easier to blend in with the surrounding scenery, creating a calm atmosphere even at a quiet campsite.
Choosing the right color to enjoy the outdoors more
The color of your rooftop tent not only affects its appearance, but also its comfort and ease of use. Dirt caused by mud, sand, and abrasions is inevitable, especially when outdoors. Considering the usage environment, earth colors such as green and beige are easy to handle, as they are less likely to show dirt and blend in well with the natural scenery. Subdued colors also offer peace of mind when it comes to long-term use.
Peakpod comes in three colors
Peakpod is available in three colors: Olive (black and dark green), Frog (double green and orange), and Sand (double peg and black). All colors blend in well with natural scenery and have a subdued tone perfect for outdoor activities. Dirt and scratches are less noticeable, allowing for long-lasting comfort. Choose the color that best suits your needs and preferences.
How to Choose the Right Rooftop Tent Size
When choosing a rooftop tent, it's important to carefully check the dimensions when stored and when unfolded. Particularly if you're planning to use it in a minicar or small SUV, miscalculating the size can lead to problems with loading and setup. Below, we'll introduce some tips for choosing the right size, based on actual product dimensions.
Thule Tepui Kukenam (soft shell)
Storage size: Approx. 122 x 143 x 31 cm
Unfolded size: approx. 244 x 142 x 132 cm
Weight: approx. 54kg
It is designed to be spacious enough for two to three people, providing ample sleeping space. However, it weighs over 50 kg, so installing and transporting it requires physical strength. Since it requires space on both sides to set up, it is also important to secure a place to extend the tent.
YAKIMA SkyRise HD Small (Soft Shell)
Storage size: Approx. 125 x 110 x 29 cm
Unfolded size: approx. 124 x 215 x 107 cm
Weight: approx. 52kg
This model is for two adults and is designed with comfort in mind. It comes standard with a thick mattress, providing cushioning for sleeping. When setting up, the tent spreads out widely to the side of the vehicle, so care must be taken when parking and the distance to adjacent spaces. It weighs over 50 kg, so lifting it requires extra manpower.
peakpod (air structure)
Storage size: 80 x 35 x 50 cm
Unfolded size: 185 x 200 x 163 cm
Weight: approx. 17kg
This lightweight and compact model is less than half the size of a typical tent when stored, making it easy to fit into small garages and storage spaces. It weighs just 17 kg, making it easy for one person to carry and load/unload. When unfolded, it is spacious enough for two adults to sit comfortably, achieving a well-balanced design that combines compactness with comfort.
Choosing the right size for your rooftop tent is an important factor that directly affects your comfort. Weight, packing size, and ease of setup all affect how easy it is to use on a daily basis.
The peakpod is lightweight at approximately 17 kg and features space-saving storage. It can be loaded into a compact car and is designed to be easy to handle by one person, making it ideal for those who are just starting out in the outdoors or who are unsure about setting up a tent.
If you are looking for a rooftop tent that is easy to use, be sure to consider the peakpod.
Features and appeal of soft rooftop tents
There are several types of rooftop tents, but the "soft type" is particularly popular because it is easy to use even for beginners. Below we will introduce its basic structure and features.
What is the soft type?
Soft rooftop tents are made of fabric and have a folding structure. They are protected by a special cover when stored, and typically have a structure that spreads out widely across the vehicle when unfolded. They provide ample sleeping space, are relatively lightweight, and are easy to handle, making them a popular choice for first-time rooftop tents.
The relatively affordable price range also makes it easy to implement, which is another reason for its popularity.
Comparing the differences between hard and soft types
There are two types of rooftop tents: hard and soft, each with its own unique features. The following comparison will help you decide which type is best for your intended use.
Why choose a soft roof top tent?
Soft rooftop tents are popular for their ease of use, with many models being light, spacious, and affordable, making them easy to get started with. Many models weigh between 20 and 40 kg, and many can even fit in a minicar. Many of them have a structure that spreads out horizontally when unfolded, providing enough space for two to three people to stay comfortably. Many are priced in the 100,000 to 200,000 yen range, making them a great choice for first-time users.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using soft rooftop tents.
For example, setting up and taking down the tent requires some effort. You have to remove the cover, unfold the floor, and set up the frame, so it takes some time to get used to it. On windy days, the fabric tends to flap around, so you need to be careful about stability while setting it up.
Taking these points into consideration, it is important to choose a rooftop tent that suits you based on how you want to use it and what kind of car you will be putting it in.
Peakpod rooftop tent is easy to set up
Although rooftop tents are convenient, many people have concerns that they take a long time to set up and take down, and that they are difficult to stabilize on windy days.
Peakpod sells rooftop tents that are designed to be easy to set up, to reduce such concerns as much as possible and allow you to enjoy the outdoors more easily.
Peakpod tents have an air structure that can be set up without the use of tools.
It stands firmly on its own just by inflating it, so even first-time users or those who are not confident in their strength can unfold it smoothly in just a few minutes.
It weighs just 17kg, making it extremely lightweight and small enough to fit in a compact car. It also packs up compactly, making it easy to carry and store.
When unfolded, it is spacious enough for two adults to sit comfortably, so you can use it with confidence even on days when you have a lot of luggage.
Even on days when you have a lot of luggage, try out the ease of being able to quickly spread it out and put it away.
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If you have any questions about the types of rooftop tents and how to choose them, please contact Peakpod.
Company Name
N.FACTORY Co., Ltd.
main office
337-1 Komuracho, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, 791-1125