What Are the Advantages of Awning Roof Top Tent?

11 Aug.,2025

 

Awning for the roof tent: variants & advantages when camping

Awning – Additional space, sun, wind and privacy protection in addition to the roof tent! Enthusiastic campers know that it can get pretty warm on the campsite.
To prevent the sun from dazzling you, at least when eating and sitting together, it makes sense to use an awning.
However, the robust protection can usually also keep out rain and wind and also serves as a privacy screen if you want a little privacy.
This multifunctional travel companion should definitely be part of your next camping vacation so that you can enjoy a carefree and relaxing time.
Find out more here.

For more information, please visit Sunday Campers.

Camping Guide

Why is an awning useful?

Are you looking for additional shade for your roof tent, folding caravan or camper?
Then awnings are definitely a good choice.
These are available in different designs and variations and can be used as sun protection for almost every motorhome, roof tent and the like.
But an awning is also an advantage as a rain cover in light showers and as protection from strong winds.
As the majority of camping takes place outdoors, your living area can be easily and simply extended with a roof awning.
This offers many advantages and flexibility compared to an awning, for example, as it can be set up more quickly and does not take up any storage space.
It is therefore a good idea to have an awning fitted, especially if you change campsites frequently.

  • Expandable living area
  • Additional shaded area
  • Protection from the sun
  • Water and wind repellent
  • Privacy screen for more privacy

Are you a camping beginner? Read all about the basics of packing lists, routes, costs, tips etc. here: Camping beginners.

Which option is right for me?

If you like to sit in the shade without having to set up a whole awning and a parasol isn’t big enough, then an awning is just the thing for you.
But as there is not just THE one awning, the question arises: which one is right for me and my loved ones?
The most popular variant is a roof awning, for example, which provides protection with the help of upright poles.
A side awning is located on the side of the vehicle and is primarily recommended as wind or privacy protection.
Some awnings can also be upgraded to a complete awning by adding front and side sections.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can opt for a classic roof awning, convert your awning into an awning or choose between other different variations.

Roof awning: For families & camping beginners

The roof awning is probably the most popular protection among awnings and is particularly suitable for families and first-time campers.
It is easily attached to the vehicle before the trip and simply extended when required.
It consists of an attached roller blind with a retraction mechanism so that it can be extended horizontally to the desired length.
Depending on the version and manufacturer, the awning is then hooked into an appropriate bracket or held in tension by the supplied support rods.
This keeps out the sun’s rays as well as rain and wind, as the material is generally water-repellent and robust.
When retracted, it takes up no space and is protected from wind and weather.
The advantages of a roof awning:

  • Uncomplicated assembly and simple installation
  • Flexible and quick to extend
  • Lightweight and compact transportation
  • Effective sun protection
  • Weatherproof protection from wind and rain

Side awning: protection for more privacy

As the name suggests, the side awning is attached to either side of the vehicle.
Unlike the roof awning, this is not attached to the vehicle itself, but to the floor.
The side awning is simply rolled out and inserted into the floor using the existing rods.
When dismantling, the awning and poles can be easily removed and stowed in the caravan or folding caravan.
Although this awning can also be used as sun and wind protection, it is above all an excellent way of keeping out prying eyes and creating a little privacy.
The advantages of a side awning:

  • Can be positioned on either side of the trolley
  • Uncomplicated assembly
  • Protection from sun, wind and rain
  • Privacy screen for more privacy

Sack and cassette awning

Two other types of awning that are popular among keen campers are the cassette awning and the bag awning.
The bag awning consists of a fabric and a frame and can be conveniently stored almost completely in a bag.
No additional space is required as it is simply pulled through the piping and works without a crank mechanism.
When required, it simply needs to be unrolled.
It provides effective protection against the sun as well as wind and rain, making it a practical must-have for camping.
The cassette awning, on the other hand, can be found on most camper vans and buses these days.
It weighs slightly more than a bag awning during transportation as it is stored in a well-protected metal box and contains a roll of fabric and the folding arms that pull both the fabric and the cover.
This front cover in turn contains the front rods, which are folded down to provide support.

Our favorites: Awning Shadow and Skycamp

If you are still looking for a suitable awning for your vacation, then you should definitely take a look at the shade awning and the roof tent awning from CAMPWERK.

Shadow awning

This vehicle awning provides your own personal shady spot on hot days and also provides dry shelter during rain showers.
The awning is easy to set up and is available in widths of 140, 200 and 250 cm.
Especially if you are only traveling with your car and roof tent, then this awning is a clear recommendation to buy.
It not only gives you protection from the weather, but also additional space to spend time comfortably on the campsite.
Click here to go to the store:

Skycamp / X-Cover awning

If you are traveling with a roof tent on your vacation or would like to buy another roof tent, then this awning is a very special tip!
Matching your Skycamp roof tent, this protection is perfect for a cozy day at the campsite.
Not only will you be protected from wind, rain and sun, but the stylish design will also make you an eye-catcher on the campsite.
Visit the store directly here:

Reading tips! Additional space, sun and privacy protection

If you need even more suggestions and tips to make your time on the campsite as pleasant and carefree as possible, then read more articles about tent annexes, awnings and more here:

Tarp: The practical outdoor tent

Especially if you are an enthusiastic camper with a roof tent, it is a good idea to also pack a tarp tent.
This can be used flexibly as wind, rain or sun protection and is therefore ideal as an additional living or sleeping area.
Whether as protection or additional space – a tarp is definitely a flexible must-have on the campsite and should therefore not be missing on your next vacation so that you can enjoy a carefree and carefree time. Read more here:

  • Tarp

Parasol and awning

Of course, you are usually out and about during the day on a camping vacation and can occasionally cool off, but the sun can put a spanner in the works for many holidaymakers at breakfast or when sitting together in the evening.
So that you can still start your morning at the campsite relaxed and end your evening in comfort, we recommend using sunshades or sails in addition to a fixed awning, which can be set up in front of your tent or roof tent. Read more here:

  • Parasol and awning

Awning: More space when camping

An additional space on the campsite is not only a great way to protect yourself from the sun and prying eyes, but also so that you don’t have to spend your time in a roof tent, camper or tent.
In an awning, you can relax in the evening with your loved ones, prepare a warm meal and play board games late at night without having to worry about the rain. Read more here:

Why Use Roof Top Tents? RTT Advantages Explained

When you think of going camping, the first picture that pops in your head is undoubtedly one of a camping tent erected under the sky. While camping tents are the traditional shelters for campers, there are newer and more advanced tents you can enjoy on your subsequent camping trips. One of these is the rooftop tent.

A rooftop tent is a tent that is erected on the roof of your truck or SUV. It is a game-changing essential overland camping gear that is widely becoming popular among campers and overlanders- for good reasons too! Below, we have provided reasons why a rooftop tent should become your go-to tent choice.

What Is A Rooftop Tent?

A rooftop tent is a tent erected on the roof of your camping or overlanding vehicle. Like conventional tents, it comes in various sizes, types, colors, and designs.

A rooftop tent is designed to be a convenient camping solution. Unlike a conventional tent that requires poles and knots before they can be mounted on the ground, rooftop tents can be easily mounted on the roof of your car to prepare an elevated sleeping area for you and your partner.

Rooftop tents make great travel companions because they are attached right to the top of your vehicle. This is the most crucial benefit of all.

What Are Rooftop Tents Made Of?

Rooftop tents, like any other tents, are made from different materials to suit different camping needs. The materials your tent is made from determine many features, from the weight of your tent to its season suitability.

Some fabrics rooftop tents are made from include:

  • Cotton: Rooftop tents made out of 100 percent cotton fabrics are usually breathable, abrasion-resistant, and durable. They allow air to pass, making campers need extra insulation for cold and windy days. The heavier the cotton fabric used, the heavier the tent and the less breathable it is. Although cotton tents are strong, they can be challenging to dry after they get wet. They absorb moisture easily, making them difficult to use in the rain. Overall, cotton rooftop tents are great for camping in the summer.
  • Polyester: Polyester rooftop tents are light, stretchy, and naturally water-resistant. They are tear-resistant and dry easily, making them an excellent choice for all seasons. While these are great, polyester tents are not breathable and suffer from abrasion easily.
  • Poly-Cotton: Poly-cotton rooftop tents are made with a mixture of cotton and polyester fibers. This causes them to share the characteristic features of both fibers, quickly making them the best rooftop tent choice any camper can invest in. Poly-cotton fibers are breathable to an extent, abrasion-resistant, tear-resistant to some extent, lighter than cotton tents, and water-resistant. 
  • Nylon: Nylon rooftop tents are a cheaper alternative to cotton and polyester rooftop tents. They are more durable to external elements and resistant to abrasion and fire retardant. Nylon rooftop tents are light and flexible, making them easy to transport and erect. They are water-resistant, dry quickly after rainfall, and can be chemically treated to become UV-resistant.

Besides the tent material, which forms the tent canvas and offers protection, rooftop tents feature other components like the frames that give it structure and support the tent when it opens up.

How Are Rooftop Tents Mounted?

Rooftop tents are expedition-type camping tents that sit on the roof of your camping van or truck. However, contrary to what many amateur campers who are unfamiliar with rooftop tents may think, rooftop tents do not sit directly on the roof of your vehicle as this is dangerous. Instead, rooftop tents are mounted on your vehicle’s roof racks.

Rooftop tents attach to your vehicle’s existing roof rack, but in the absence of one, your rooftop tent can be mounted on separately-bought crossbars. However, before you go into the business of purchasing and mounting your rooftop tent, you need to meet specific requirements to guarantee your safety and that of your vehicle.

When purchasing your rooftop tent, you need to buy a tent that your vehicle and its racks or crossbars can support. This means you need to know your vehicle’s weight, crossbar size and weight limit, and the tent’s weight.

There are two types of tent weights which are dynamic and static weights. The dynamic weight is the tent weight supported by your vehicle when your vehicle is in motion, and the tent is not in use. The dynamic weight determines and affects your vehicle mileage, dag, and how fast you burn gas.

Static weight, on the other hand, is the weight supported by your vehicle when your tent is erect, and you are in it. The static weight is usually higher and more distributed than the dynamic weight.

After you figure out the necessary weight limits, ensure you have the right roof rack or crossbar. There are different types of roof racks and if you are buying one separately because you don't have a vehicle rack or the one on the roof of your vehicle is the wrong size, you should ensure that the one you buy is the proper size.

You should install your roof racks at least 32 inches away from each other except stated otherwise in your rooftop tent manual. To install your rooftop tent, ensure you have the proper tools and equipment. Consult your rooftop manual for instructions and get the tools required to begin the mounting process.

To install your rooftop tent:

  • Ensure the tent’s components are complete. From bolts to knots and ladder brackets, ensure you have all the components listed in the manual present.
  • Install the mounting tracks to the roof of your vehicle
  • Secure and install the ladder
  • Attach the cover
  • Secure your tent to the roof as the instruction manual directs

And, voila! You have a ready-to-use tent for your subsequent camping adventures. The amount of time you need to set up your tent varies. However, as long as you have the proper tools and help needed, you can mount and install your rooftop tent in an hour or two.

Types of Rooftop Tents

There are two main types of rooftop tents and they are soft shells or hard shell rooftop tents. Soft and hard shell tents are great rooftop tent options with varying pros and cons. The features you need in your tent, like durability, space, price, and ease of setting up will help you determine what type of rooftop tent is excellent for you.

Soft Shell Rooftop Tents

Soft shell rooftop tents are lightweight and easy to transport. Although they are light, they are surprisingly considerably tricky to set up and deflate as you have to ensure every edge of the tent is secured in the cover.

For more Awning Roof Top Tentinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Soft shell rooftop tents are an excellent option if you are looking for a rooftop tent that provides more space for accommodation. They have more room and greater floor space that can be folded out, and they also offer a space for the attachment for a separately-bought annex for more room.

Soft shell rooftop tents, however, are not an excellent aerodynamics option. They cause drag, which might slow your vehicle while driving and cause you to burn more fuel.

Hard Shell Rooftop Tents

Hard shell roof top tents feature a rigid floor and ceiling structure which makes them look like boxes. They are a standard option among campers as they are more durable than soft shell tents and are easier. However, these tents are more expensive than soft-shell rooftop tents.

Hard shell rooftop tents are often built with an aerodynamic design. This means they cause less drag resistance and do not affect your vehicle mileage as much as soft shell tents.

The rigid structure of this tent type limits the space available but makes it easier to set up in less than a minute. They are equally easy to pull down without hassle, making it possible to pack up and go.

There are different designs of hard shell rooftop tents that determine features like how your tent opens up, the structure of your tent,and your tent’s height.

Benefits of Rooftop Tents

Rooftop tents are rapidly gaining popularity as more campers begin to notice and understand the benefits of this essential camping gear. A more convenient option than conservation tents, the comfort and ease rooftop tents provide are unmatched and can be compared to none. Some reasons you should adopt rooftop tents on your next camping trip include:

1. Ease Of Set Up

When you use conventional camping tents, you first need to find a designated tent campsite to set up camp. Afterward, you need to find flat ground and clear it of stones and sticks before finally beginning the stressful process of using poles and knots to erect your tent.

With rooftop tents, you do not have to worry about these stressful processes. Since rooftop tents are mounted on the roof of your vehicle, all you need to do is find a spot to park, remove the tent cover, take the straps off, set up the ladder, and unfold your tent. You can set up your tent and be in bed in minutes. 

Unlike a conventional tent that requires you to make multiple trips to your car and back, some rooftop tents can hold your mattress, pillows, and blankets even when collapsed. Even if you need to attach your annex to complete your setup, the process is easier and faster when compared to setting up a conventional tent. Setting up a rooftop tent is an effortless process that pays off after a long day of having fun in the wild.

2. Ease of Transport

If you are an overland camper or a camper who is always on the move, you will appreciate the ease of transport that rooftop tents offer. With this tent option, you can no longer be limited by terrain or location.

Rooftop tents are a practical option if you want to set up camp for the night and continue your journey in the morning. It provides a quick setup and take-down time that facilitates quick movements to different locations every day. Setting up a ground tent with poles and knots before filling it with your sleeping gear only to take it down in a few hours is an experience you don't need to suffer when you use rooftop tents.

Enjoy unconstrained camping trips to locations that will not be practical for ground tents. Whether in the forest or on rocky terrains, as long as you can find a safe spot to pack, you will have shelter over your head.

3. Above-ground Shelter

Using a rooftop tent means sleeping comfortably at a vantage point above ground level. This guarantees a comfortable night's rest away from bugs, mud, and wildlife.

Sleeping in ground tents leaves you to suffer at the hands- or bites- of buds and crawling insects. It also leaves you easily accessible to animals like snakes, compromising your safety. Sleeping off-ground level takes care of this little problem. Some rooftop tents even feature mesh panels in the window to help campers enjoy a comfortable bug-free night's rest.

Sleeping above ground level also means you can keep dirt out of your sleeping space to a great extent, especially when it rains. A ground tent will get splashed with water and mud, leaving campers to track mud in and out of their tent. With a rooftop tent, you can remain safe, comfortable, and mud-free during and after rain.

A rooftop tent is a more secure tent option that allows a camper to sleep above their truck while keeping the truck locked.

4. Comfortable Sleeping Area

If you have ever slept on a mat in a camping tent, you will agree that the feeling of rocks and pebbles poking your back isn't exactly one you enjoy on camping trips. Even if you splurge on a camping air mattress, the comfort cannot be compared to the feeling of sleeping on memory foam in a rooftop tent.

Many rooftop tents come with high-density memory foam mattresses to keep campers comfortable and warm. They also have a sturdy, flat floor surface usually made from fiberglass, steel, or any durable and strong material. This means you do not have to deal with discomfort from rocks or sticks.

5. Durability

Rooftop tents may be lightweight, but they are often made of durable and strong materials that protect the tent from damage. Additionally, they usually have solid fiberglass panels or durable aluminum frames that give the tent structure and hold it in place.

With rooftop tents, especially those made from highly durable materials, you do not have to worry about tears or abrasion. Unlike ground tents that usually have their canvas flapping in the wind or rain and even sometimes blown off the campers, rooftop tents cannot be ripped off their structure, and several designs offer minimal flapping in the wind.

Rooftop tents are heavy enough to support your problem. The canvas is more durable and guarantees the safety and security that most ground tents do not offer.

6. More Space

When using rooftop tents, you can save space in your vehicle by storing your sleeping gear in your tent, even when it is closed. With space usually a priority on camping and overland trips, you will have more space in your vehicle to pack essential camping gear. 

Unlike ground tents, rooftop tents do not need to be dismantled or kept in your vehicle every morning. Since it can remain mounted on your roof and safely placed in its cover, you can save even more space in your vehicle without a problem.

Some tents, specifically hard shell tents, provide areas to store gear on their hard surface. You can solve multiple storage problems by simply investing in rooftop tents.

7. Customizable To Provide More Space

Rooftop tents can be customized to add more space by providing means of attaching separately-bought awnings, awning curtains, and annexes.

Annexes are equally durable camping equipment that provides additional shelter for a convenient private space, changing room, or kitchen setup. They come in different designs and colors and can easily be attached to your rooftop tent.

Awnings also provide extra shelter by casting a shade that helps campers create their make-shift outdoor patio. They can be fitted with curtains to provide a sleeping area below your rooftop tent.

8. Luxury

Who says you must purchase an RV to enjoy a luxurious camping trip? You can enjoy luxury in the wilderness without splurging thousands of dollars on an RV by simply investing in the correct type of rooftop tent. Rooftop tents are cheaper options that offer equally great comfort and convenience.

While, of course, you won’t enjoy running water and the customized bathroom that RVs offer, you will still enjoy electricity through solar panel fittings and the comfort and freedom of mobility that RV users enjoy. You will also get to save a lot of money!

9. Year-Round Use

All rooftop tents are made with durable materials, but some are made with heavy-duty materials that can handle all types of weather. Being able to handle different weather conditions without problems makes them viable for all-season year-round.

These rooftop tents are fitted with thick fabric, insulation, anti-condensation mats, and other features necessary to keep campers comfortable all year. This way, you can stay warm and dry in the winter and cool in the summer.

Enjoying The Unbeatable Advantages of Rooftop Tents

Rooftop tents are ten steps ahead of conventional ground tents. They are durable, affordable, and designed to offer comfort and convenience in the wild.

For more information, please visit Car Top Tent Manufacturers.