Roof Top Tent Fabrics: Making The Right Choice

by Caitlin
rooftop tent

In recent years, the craft of outdoor has drastically improved, becoming more affordable to just about anyone with interest in experiencing nature. Roof top tents have evolved to a point where you can bed down on the roof of your car and still enjoy a comfortable and stylish experience. In addition to this, a tent mounted on your automobile offers you the perfect opportunity to quickly pick up and leave an area when the need arises.

The best roof top tents do not require you to exit your vehicle at any point in time. Finding the right roof top tent that meets your precise requirements can be a challenge. Consider where you would like to mount your tent, the price you’re comfortable paying, and the tent’s design. Most importantly, note the material your tent is made out of, as this will have a direct effect on your car’s fuel efficiency as it copes with the extra weight. Let’s focus on the best materials for your roof top tent.

What to remember before buying a roof top tent

  • Size matters

When it comes to protecting you from the elements and the amount of extra pressure on your car’s engine, smaller tents fare better than larger ones. A smaller cover can retain body heat more efficiently compared to a large tent. The total aerodynamic drag generated by a larger cover is considerably more than that of a small tent. Large tents are heavier and more cumbersome than small covers.

  • Ease of setup

Your choice of roof top tent should be easy to set up and maintain in all conditions and terrain. The tent you pick should be easy to open and close with no hassles.

  • Compatibility with your vehicle’s rack

The cover should fit properly on the space accorded by the storage rack. If the size of the tent exceeds the space, bedding in the tent may prove to be an uncomfortable experience.

  • Type of vehicle

When purchasing a roof top tent, keep in mind the type of vehicle you own. Your tent should spread comfortably onto the car’s roof without presenting aerodynamic problems.

Tent fabrics

In your search for the perfect roof top tent, you will come across tents made from a large variety of fabrics, including polyester and polycotton.  It is best to remember that each tent fabric has its pros and cons. The choice of material you choose depends on what you intend to use your roof top tent for. Ideally, your cover should not be difficult to transport or lift to the storage rack.

  • Canvas

The most popular tent fabric, canvas, comes with plenty of advantages, including insulation, breathability, longevity, and a nice, clean smell. Canvas for making roof top tents is primarily made from cotton.

  • Polycotton

This is a human-made hybrid, a combination of cotton and polyester.

These materials are more resistant to mildew as compared to pure canvas or cotton designs.

  • Nylon/Polyester

The majority of roof top tents are made from nylon fabrics. These covers are cheaper, quick to dry out, lighter, and involve less maintenance than all the other fabrics.

Conclusion

Roof top tents have become a trademark item among serious nature aficionados and outdoorsmen. It is important to select the best cover material for your tent, as well as matching the tent’s size to your car rack and fuel capacity to prevent fuel-guzzling.

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