The Rooftop Tent Struggles No One Talks About (But I Still Love It)
Let’s be real for a sec, I love my rooftop tent. It’s cute, it’s fun, it makes me feel like I have my life together (even when I don’t). It’s also kind of become a personality trait at this point. BUT, there are a few things no one really warns you about when you get one. So, here I am, sharing the not-so-glamorous side of rooftop tent camping, because you deserve to know what you’re getting into before making it your whole identity like I did.
1. The Ladder Life Gets Real Old
Climbing up and down that ladder? Constantly? It gets annoying. Especially when your hands are full and you're juggling gear, snacks, or your emotional support water bottle. It’s a whole mission just to get in and out. And don't even get me started on midnight bathroom trips. I’ve 100% miss-stepped on the way down in the dark. Not ideal.
2. Once You’re Set Up, You’re Stuck
This one drives me a little nuts. Once the rooftop tent is popped up, you’re not going anywhere without packing it all back down. So unless you brought bikes or you're within walking distance of everything, you're kind of stuck at camp. Yes, it packs up quickly, but you still have to take out everything you just perfectly organized inside. It’s a bit of a process.
3. Windy Nights = Slight Panic
I will never forget this one night... My boyfriend and I were road-tripping across the U.S., and we stayed at this campsite by a super windy lake. The ladder was literally bouncing. I swear it felt like we were going to launch into the air like a sad little kite. We got up in the middle of the night to tie the corners of the tent down because I was convinced we were gonna get folded up with the tent. (Spoiler: we didn’t. But it felt like we could.)
4. Definitely NOT Stealthy
Rooftop tents are great, but if you're looking for something stealthy, this isn’t it. Everyone and their dog will know you’re sleeping in there. Which is fine if you’re at a designated campsite, but if you’re trying to be lowkey, it’s not the move. (To be fair, a regular tent isn’t that sneaky either.)
5. Rainy Day Pack-Ups Are the Worst
Packing up in the rain always sucks, but rooftop tents add another layer of annoying. With a ground tent, you can at least hang it up in your shower to dry. A rooftop tent? Good luck. You’ll probably need a driveway to dry it out, and if you’re like me and used to live in an apartment with just a parking garage? Forget it. Way too tall.
But Would I Still Recommend It? Absolutely.
Yes, there are definitely some rooftop tent struggles.
But honestly? I still love mine.
The views, the vibes, the convenience (when you're already set up), it’s worth it. Just something to think about if you're in the market for one, or wondering if rooftop tent life is for you. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll have some great stories to tell.
Happy Camping!
