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Are Roof Top Tents and Car Tents the Same Thing?
You'll see these called roof top tents, car tents, car roof tents and rooftop tents depending on where you're looking. They all refer to the same thing: a tent designed to mount on your vehicle's roof bars and sleep you off the ground. The terminology varies by brand and region, but the product is identical.
What does vary is the type of vehicle they suit. Most roof top tents and car tents are built for 4x4s, SUVs and vehicles with a load-rated roof, but lighter soft-shell versions can work on estate cars and larger hatchbacks provided the roof bars are rated to carry the weight. Always check the tent's packed weight against your vehicle's dynamic roof load limit before buying - this figure is usually in your owner's manual and is lower than the static load limit.
If you're looking for roof top tents to fit a specific vehicle, it's worth speaking to a fitting specialist before purchasing.
What is the difference between a roof tent and a roof top tent?
There's no practical difference. Roof tent and roof top tent are two names for the same product - a tent that mounts onto roof bars and allows you to sleep on top of your vehicle. Some brands use one term, some the other. Car tent is another common name for the same thing.
Can you put a roof top tent on any car?
Not every car is suitable for a roof top tent. Your vehicle needs compatible roof bars and a roof load rating high enough to carry the tent's packed weight. Most roof top tents weigh between 30kg and 60kg, and smaller or lower-spec cars often have dynamic roof load limits below this. Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's rated roof load before buying.
Are car tents legal in the UK?
Fitting and driving with a roof tent in the UK is legal, provided the tent is properly secured and doesn't exceed your vehicle's roof load rating. However, where you sleep in it is a separate matter. In England and Wales, wild camping is not a general right, so you need landowner permission or to stay on a designated site.
Do you need roof bars for a roof top tent?
Yes. All roof top tents require a set of load-rated roof bars or a roof rack. The bars need to span the width of your vehicle and be rated to carry the weight of the tent. If your car doesn't have roof bars already, you'll need to factor in the cost and fitting of a compatible set - browse our roof bars range for options.
For more advice and buying tips, check out the Complete Guide to Roof Tents.