Planning to go camping in your SUV? You’ll need the best tent for SUVs & crossovers that are specifically designed to be used with SUVs or crossovers. Not all tents are created equal – not all tents will be suitable for use with an SUV.
SUV tent camping is a great option for those looking to camp in their vehicles. They offer several features that make them ideal for camping, including a spacious interior, ample storage, and great protection from the elements.
SUV camping tents come in various sizes and shapes, so choosing one that’s right for you is important. There are a few things to remember when choosing an SUV camping tent, such as size, capacity, weight, and price.
This article will look at the 7 best SUV camping tents on the market. We’ll also give you some tips on what to look for when choosing a tent for your SUV. This article will help you choose the top SUV camping tent for your next adventure.
List Of Our Top Recommendations For Best SUV Camping Tent
When choosing the best camping tent for your SUV, you need to consider a few things. The number of people who will be using the tent and the type of camping you will be doing are all important factors to consider.
There are a few different types of SUV tents on the market, so it’s important to research them before making a purchase. This section will provide you with the 7 best tents for SUVs for your next adventure!
Image | Product | Price |
Our Pick
1 | Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent with Annex | |
2 | Ozark Trail SUV Camping Tent | |
3 | Rightline Gear SUV Tent |
5 Benefits To Buy The Best SUV Tents For Camping
While many people picture classic tents when they picture camping, many more options are available. Like SUV camping! SUV camping has a lot of advantages.
The tents you use are the first distinction between traditional tent camping and SUV camping. However, some of the distinctions are also advantageous.
1. Comfortable Sleep
SUV tent camping may be a popular choice for people who enjoy the outdoors. Sleeping on the ground can not only be cold and uncomfortable, but it can also bring you closer to bugs and other animals.
You can get off the ground and into a place where you feel safe and secure by sleeping in your SUV tents.
2. Extra Protection
Yes, tents provide shelter from the wind and rain, but adding a car gives you even more security! SUV tents are particularly well-built to endure the elements.
SUV tents are also more durable than conventional tents, so you won’t need to be concerned if a particularly severe storm approaches.
3. Little Work Needed
You will need to set up your SUV tent once you are at the site, but other than that, there is little else to do. Everything is already there, so there’s no need to haul stuff from your car!
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If you choose to spend the night in the tent area, you could even leave everything in your car just how it is.
4. Great For Beginners
SUV camping tents are a terrific place to start if you’ve never gone camping. You don’t have to agree to the negative aspects of camping, such as sleeping on the ground. Not to mention, when camping, comfort comes first.
You probably already feel at ease relaxing in your vehicle tents. SUV tents are ideal if you want to introduce camping in small steps.
5. Camp Anywhere
Camping off the beaten path is the best way to discover the perfect location. Your SUV tents come in handy even if it’s not a typical camping location and you didn’t anticipate where you would be camping.
You can set up camp anywhere and anytime with the best SUV camping tents (or its cousin, truck bed camping). Additionally, set-up will be quick.
Factors To Consider While Buying The Best SUV Camping Tents
It’s important to choose a camping tent suitable for SUV cars. It would help to consider the range of models, features, and purposes while buying a camping tent. Here is a useful guide to help you locate a high-quality tent.
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The main factor to take into account is what you’ll be doing. Will you be doing a lot of space and no weight restriction car camping? Or are you going to go backpacking with a small pack? But before buying a tent, look at these key traits.
A. Seasonality
Consider your expedition style before choosing a tent. Do you wish to have the option of sleeping outside, even on snowy winter nights? Or do you only need a reliable tent for a few sporadic summer camping trips?
The first thing to consider is seasonality to ensure your tent keeps you comfortable. Three-season tents can withstand adverse weather conditions in the spring and fall, including wind and rain.
However, three-season tents can’t last in harsher conditions. On the other hand, the best four-season tents provide excellent protection from strong winds and heavy snowfall.
B. Spaciousness
Modern tents can accommodate a wide range of outdoor adventurers. Be sure to consider the tent’s design, as well as its square footage and peak height, while determining if it might be livable.
Many lightweight tents provide enough area for your shoulders and room to sit in your sleeping bag. Nevertheless, larger models intended for automobile camping provide adequate room to stand.
Adjustable awnings and vestibules can help expand a tent’s interior capacity, giving you more room for large gear items. You may take your friends and family camping in a four-person tent.
C. Size & Weight
Size and weight are likely not your main concerns if you only need a tent to throw in your trunk for spontaneous camping trips. Go big if weight won’t be an issue. The recommended occupancy is typically stated in the tent’s name.
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On the other hand, weight and size are important factors when choosing a reliable tent to bring on wilderness trips. Some of the best hiking tents have storage systems with many stash bags to reduce the weight in your pack.
D. Best SUV Tent Attachments
A few extra accessories can help your tent last longer and are worth considering when purchasing one. A footprint or camping tarp is a barrier against seeping moisture during a trail night.
Some tents include a footprint, but for many models, you must purchase the footprint separately. Moreover, some tents come with a synthetic seam-sealer that can help ensure that your backcountry tent remains waterproof even with heavy use.
E. Season Rating
Normally, you want to be sure that the tent you select has the proper season rating. One, two, and five-season tents (expedition tents) are much less common than the three and four-season tents that make up the majority of tents.
The best option for camping outside during the late spring, summer, and early fall months is a 3 season tent. You will need a tent that can withstand cold temperatures and high winds in autumn, winter, or early spring.
In that scenario, you should look into rooftop tents or, if you’re looking at this list, 4 season tents.
7 Best Camping Tents For SUVs You Can Buy In 2023
Any experienced camper knows that having a good tent can make or break a trip. And, if you’re planning on doing any SUV camping, then you will need a tent specifically designed for that purpose.
In this section, we’ll look at the best tent for SUVs that you can get your hands on in 2023. We cover everything from price and features to durability. So, this is the article for you if you’re in the market for a new SUV camping tent!
1. Napier Outdoors Sportz SUV Tent
- Brand: Napier Enterprises
- Material: Polyester T, Steel
- Occupancy: 4-5, 2 Persons ( In Cargo Space )
- Size: 9′ x 9′ x 7.25′ Feet
- Steel & Fiberglass Pole Structure
- Expandable Carrying Bag
- 2 No-see-um Mesh Windows
- Cyclone Venting System
The Napier Outdoors Sportz SUV Tent bills itself as offering maximum comfort for SUV tent camping. With its additional screen room and extensible awning, it converts any SUV into an entire campground.
In addition to a 6′ x 7′ screened area and a 6′ x 6′ optional awning, it offers a ground tent measuring 10′ x 10′ with 7.25′ headroom. Additionally, it features two doors, three mesh windows, and two roof skylights.
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Additionally, it has woven polyethylene floors, a steel frame, and 100% waterproof PU polyester taffeta. You can easily transform it into a solo tent by unzipping and removing the vehicle sleeve. Also, it includes a universal vehicle sleeve that fits all SUVs.
The Napier Outdoors Sportz SUV Tent is one of the fantastic tents that connect to SUV. The tent is a great choice if you have a lot of gear to take camping. However, this tent is typically more expensive compared to other brands of the same size.
2. KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Tent
- Brand: KingCamp
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 6 Persons
- Size: 15.5’ x 9.5’ x 7.5’ Feet
- Large Mesh Window
- Strong & Sturdy
- Sunshade & Rainproof
- Breathable & Easy-to-Install
The KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Tent is a versatile tent that can house up to 6 people. Numerous options are available to suit your requirements and activities. While maintaining a dry and pleasant interior, this SUV tent is also breathable.
This tent has an inner dimension of 9.5′ x 9.5′ x 7.5′, a secondary screened area with a size of 9.5′ x 6.5′, and the choice of a front or side awning. Three doors and numerous mesh windows provide excellent ventilation.
The flysheet material consists of 190T polyester with a 3000 mm waterproof PU covering. The floors are removable PE, and the interior is breathable 180T polyester. There are fiberglass and steel components in its framework.
If you want a bigger tent, this is the one to get. The spacious inside and waterproofing protection make this tent well worth the price. The only criticism is that zippers frequently become stuck in the middle.
3. Smittybilt Overlander Rooftop Tent with Annex
- Brand: Smittybilt
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 3 Persons
- Size: 8’ x 4.6’ x 4.2’ Feet
- 600D Heavy Duty Waterproof Top
- Windows w/ Mosquito Netting
- Easy-to-Set Up & Remove
- Heavy-Duty PVC Cover
The Smittybilt Overlander Tent is a typical-sized rooftop tent. When it rains, it is a good option for defense against snakes, bugs, and water. Smittybilt Tent Annex is the best SUV tent attachment.
It offers additional cover for sleeping, space storage, and changing clothing. It features inside door flaps for convenient access to your car and tough, heavy-duty zippers for attachment.
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The Overlander tent’s foam mattress measures 92 inches by 55 inches and can accommodate 2-3 people at a time. A sunroof, side windows with mosquito netting, and internal LED strips are all included with this tent.
This tent has a rain fly and waterproof top that will last many years. For those looking for a high-end SUV tent, there is the Smittybilt Overlander Tent. It can survive longer than other tents because of its robust design.
4. Ozark Trail SUV Camping Tent
- Brand: Ozark Trail
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 5 Persons
- Size: 14’ x 9’ x 7’ Feet
- Spacious & Durable
- Multiple Storage Pockets
- Roll-Back Rainfly
- Full Mesh Roof
Even for beginners, setting up the Ozark Trail SUV Tent is simple. The rapid set-up capability makes it suitable for local campgrounds and backyards. This tent has plenty of headroom, is very roomy, and can fit 5 adults.
If not attached to your vehicle, it has two doors. It also has a canopy, a media pocket, other pockets, an attached mud mat, a lantern hook, and other features. The fabric is 185T polyester, and fiberglass poles serve as the framework.
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Although it satisfies the criteria for flammability, prolonged flame exposure could cause it to burn. It is simple to transform into a ground tent for camping. It also fits the majority of SUVs and vans.
Although the Ozark Trail SUV Tent is a good option for beginners, it won’t likely hold up well in inclement weather because it’s a cheap tent. It is ideal for a family on a tight budget or just beginning camping.
5. KingCamp Awning Sun Shelter SUV Tent
- Brand: KingCamp
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 3-4 Persons
- Size: 10’ x 7’ x 6.2’ Feet
- 210T Polyester Fabric Rainfly
- 3 Shock Corded Fiberglass Poles
- Lightweight & Portable
- PU Waterproof
The KingCamp Compass SUV Tent is a multipurpose car tent or shade that makes it easy to add more shade in a handy position. It is one of the best tents for SUVs for picnics, tailgating, and visits to the beach.
There is enough room for 5 people in this tent, which measures 124 inches by 84.6 inches (more than 12 feet by 8 feet). You can either set it up on the ground or rope it to the rear of your car, with the steel poles supporting it at one end.
It has a large mesh window on top of the roof, shaped like a large umbrella. For storing small items and gadgets, this SUV tent has mesh pockets. PU coating with a 1500 mm waterproof rating and 210T RipStop polyester make up the materials utilized.
Three fiberglass poles and two steel canopy poles make up the frame. Most SUVs, MPVs, trucks, hatchbacks, and sedans can use it. As a result, the KingCamp Compass SUV Tent is ideal for beach relaxation, family picnics, and tailgating.
6. Rightline Gear SUV Tent
- Brand: Rightline Gear
- Material: Polyester, Fiberglass
- Occupancy: 6 Persons
- Size: 8’ x 8’ x 7.2’ Feet
- Water-Resistant Design
- Tape Sealed Seams
- No-see-um mesh Windows
- PE Bathtub Floor
You can camp with the Rightline Gear SUV Tent without giving up the comforts of home. For seclusion, it has no-see-um mesh windows and doors that you can close. The zippers that light up in the dark are very practical at night.
It has a floor area of 8 × 8 and 7.25 feet of headroom, which is sufficient for 4 individuals. It has a 2000 mm waterproof rating and is composed of water-resistant fabric with tape-sealed seams. The bathtub floor is made of PE.
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Any SUV, minivan, crossover, or wagon may attach to the tent thanks to its movable vehicle sleeve. You may quickly transform this tent into a solo tent by releasing the vehicle sleeve from the dowel and loop fasteners.
This one of the best tents for SUVs offers the highest level of weather defense. The zippers that illuminate in the dark may be useful at night. They can be flimsy and prone to tear over time, which also tends to become an issue.
7. DAC Explorer 2 SUV Tent
- Brand: DAC
- Material: Polyester
- Occupancy: 2 Persons
- Size: 11’ x 11’ x 6’ Feet
- No-see-um Mesh Insect Screen
- 2-Way Zippers
- Easy to Set Up
- Flame Resistant
The DAC Explorer 2 SUV tent is one of the top tents for the back of SUVs if you want to turn your car into a complete camping site. It fits the majority of minivans and SUVs with a rear lift-gate, including Honda Odyssey, Toyota Highlander, and Chevy Equinox.
You may roll up the back door panel to reveal two meshed panes that provide bug protection. You can zip up this panel or tie it to the bottom corners for privacy. It uses bungee cords to attach to the vehicle’s underframe and has an easy set-up feature.
Vehicles with fewer than 67 inches wide rear doors can fit this tent. Additionally, it is among the most affordable options on the market and is both lightweight and compact. It can only fit one adult, though.
There are a few differences in comparing the DAC Explorer 2 SUV tent to the previously stated brands. However, if you’re traveling alone and your SUV or minivan meets the requirements for this tent, it might be worth looking into.
Top FAQs About Camping Tents Suitable For SUV Cars
What Is The Best Type Of Car Tent?
A car tent is a great addition to any camping gear, providing a comfortable and protected space to sleep in when you’re on the road. But with so many different types available, it can take a lot of work to know which is right for you.
To help you make the best choice, we’ve put together a list of the best SUV tents for camping available and their pros and cons. So read on to find the best type of car tent for your next camping trip!
What Cars Can Have A Tent On Top?
A car tent is a great way to get extra space and storage for your vehicle. It’s also a great way to keep your vehicle clean and protected from the elements. But what kind of car can have a tent on top?
Most tents are designed to fit on SUVs and CUVs. However, a few tents are designed to fit on smaller cars, such as sedans and hatchbacks. You can always check the manufacturer’s website if you need help determining which type of car you have.
Can A Roof Tent Damage Car?
If you’re buying, you may have wondered if they can damage your car. In contrast, some roof tents can be heavy and require extra care. However, most roof tents are designed with your car and your camping comfort in mind.
When used properly, a roof tent can help protect your car from the elements while camping. So, if you want the best way to camp with your SUV, a roof tent may be the perfect option!
Which Type Of Tent Can Withstand Strong Winds?
Look for double-walled tents if you want one that can withstand wind. One fabric is less effective than a good rain fly held down with many lines to stop severe winds. Since you don’t want the wind to enter the tent, pay close attention to the zippers.
Are Car Top Tents Worth It?
If you love camping but hate sleeping on the ground, you may wonder if a car-top tent is worth the investment. A car top tent is a type of camping tent designed to be attached to the roof of your car.
They are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons, including that they are easier to set up than traditional tents and provide a comfortable sleeping space off the ground.
However, car top tents have their drawbacks. They can be expensive and difficult to set up if you are not familiar with the process.
How Fast Can You Drive With A Roof Top Tent?
A rooftop tent is one of the best investments if you love camping and spending time outdoors. Not only do they provide a comfortable place to sleep, but they also offer shelter from the elements and bugs.
One of the most common questions about rooftop tents is how fast they can drive with one. The answer depends on the size and weight of the tent, as well as the wind speed.
However, With a roof tent attached, you should only go at a top speed of 75 MPH. Any quicker than this, and the significant level of wind resistance at these speeds, could cause your roof tent to become unsteady or even risk detaching.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are a variety of SUV tents available, each with its own set of features. When selecting a tent, it is important to consider your needs and budget. Our list of the best tents for SUVs is a great place to find the perfect tent for your next camping trip.
If you’re still undecided, choose the Napier Outdoors Sportz SUV Tent. As per our review, this tent comes out on top regarding features and usability. However, your choice may differ as your needs could be different. So choose wisely!