Your next camping trip might require a little more travel and a lot more equipment. That’s okay! You’re more than prepared for the excursion. Once you load up the truck and set the map for your destination, the only thing left to worry about next is getting there safely. If you’re wondering how to handle your truck with a rooftop tent, we’re here to help you.
It’s not about getting there faster; it’s about getting there in one piece. A rooftop tent certainly adds a little more pressure to your truck, but the top speed will still depend on the vehicle’s off-roading capabilities. You’ll need to account for fuel efficiency, off-roading capabilities, and aerodynamics when determining your top speeds with a rooftop tent.
Most trucks can handle off-roading, and rooftop tents aren’t an issue for vehicles like a Toyota Tacoma. They don’t affect their overall performance. Most trucks are made for such activities, but overall effectiveness still comes down to the vehicle’s load capacity. With a payload capacity of up to 1155 pounds, Tacoma trucks are more than capable of navigating tricky terrain with a bed camper installed.
The safe handling of a truck with a rooftop tent doesn’t solely rely on the vehicle. The camper plays a role too. Making sure the camper is suspended and secured properly will help determine how your truck handles when driving with a rooftop tent.
These campers come with tie-downs that mount directly to the frame of the truck. Take care of these tie-downs. Any maintenance neglect could result in a potential accident. Check the stability of the mount before starting your truck and pulling off the road.
You’re either going to travel with a hard shell or soft shell rooftop tent. You’ll base your decision on the purpose of the trip and how long you want your equipment to last. The soft shell is lighter and barely adds any weight to your vehicle. However, you still need to drive at a reasonable speed and ensure the tent is secure.
Hard shells are on the heavier side because of the materials used. But the density of these tents works out in your favor! You’ll hear less of a rattle on top of your vehicle as you drive because the truck bed camper’s durability contains the tent, making for a drama-free ride.
If you have a vehicle that is capable of handling an off-road drive, you should be set to go. You can try and maintain your top speed, but it’s a better idea not to go over 65 mph for safety reasons. With the Tacoma bed campers at Super Pacific Inc., your truck will be able to hit 65 mph safely.
Remember that this additional cargo can affect your vehicle’s brakes, causing increased stopping distances. It’s important to drive within the capabilities of your truck, always ensuring you can stop abruptly if needed.
Now you have a clearer idea of how to properly handle your truck with a rooftop tent, but if you have any more questions before your camping trip, we can answer them. For more information, visit our website.
Camping is one of those popular activities that anyone can put their own spin on. People choosing to go glamping proves that. Everyone camps in their own way and does what is most comfortable for them. When it comes to picking out a tent, campers should always go with the best option. We can tell you why it’s better to choose a rooftop tent over a regular tent.
Camping is fun, but it comes with a dark side. It can be dangerous for several different reasons. Aside from stepping into the wilderness, animals lurk around and try to steal valuable items.
A rooftop tent provides more security than sleeping on the ground. It offers more protection from animals and insects and is difficult to steal. The tents can come with reinforced bars or straps that lock onto the vehicle, making them impossible to steal.
Sleeping on the ground and getting close to nature sounds good in theory, but it comes with some challenges. Not every camper wants to sleep on the cold ground. A rooftop tent offers more comfort.
There are no rocks, uneven ground, or dirt piles in your rooftop tent. You’ll sleep on a density foam mattress and won’t have to worry about uninvited guests entering your tent. The inner lining of the tent keeps you warm all night; there’s even room for extra blankets and sleeping bags!
People often think the setup for a rooftop tent is too complicated, but it’s easier than a regular tent. The instructions and guidelines are straightforward. You need to focus on leveling— the whole thing could cave in if the tent is off-center.
It’s an easy setup and takedown, which comes in handy during emergencies when the elements are not always on your side. If rain falls and lightning strikes, you’ll want to take shelter quickly. You can set up a rooftop tent in a matter of minutes.
The best part about camping is the views. You can’t get scenery like that in the big city, so take advantage of it while camping. Rooftop tents have a leg up on standard tents—literally! They put campers at a higher focal point. You won’t be at ground level, so you won’t have to strain yourself to catch the sunrise.
Don’t forget the sunset! It’s even more peaceful than the sunrise; cozying up inside your lightweight truck camper with blankets is the best way to end your day. Give yourself the best of the best with a rooftop tent.
At Super Pacific Inc., we’re all about getting the most out of a camping trip, which is why you should choose a rooftop tent over a regular tent. Make the purchase today! For more information, visit our website.
One of the greatest things about camping is the gear. Camping starts with tents, and there are too many to choose from. Tents come in different sizes and styles to the point where you may not know which one to purchase. If you’re trying to decide if owning a rooftop tent is for you, look over these pros and cons.
Safety is crucial while camping. You’re outside, and you don’t have the comfort or the protection of your home. Camping means you have stepped into the animal’s domain; you’re in its home, and it doesn’t need to be considerate of you. You need to be considerate of it.
Getting a rooftop tent eliminates that problem immediately. It keeps you safe from small game, such as snakes, scorpions, and other animals that pose a serious threat. Sleeping on the ground means you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect yourself from getting bit. You have plenty of space on the roof of your car, and you’re off of the ground, keeping you safe from animals. You don’t need to worry about waking up with unwanted guests.
Furthermore, you need to think about petty thieves. There may be plenty of people camping around you who might look to you and your possessions for money. In a rooftop tent, they’ll make too much noise trying to get to you, and you’ll wake up in plenty of time.
Mounting the tent will come with its challenges, especially if you’re not familiar with this equipment. For starters, you need a few more tools to do the job than you would a normal tent. That means packing more to make sure you can set everything up correctly.
You still want to ensure you place yourself away from creeks, rivers, or lakes to avoid flooding, heavy rainfall, or any other weather dangers. However, you have to worry about additional considerations. Mounting the tent means you’ll need to have a ladder and find level ground because the vehicle needs to be stationary.
The mounting requires special brackets, bars, and roof mounting kits. These steps may make setup a little longer than your standard tent setup. You could mount the tent before leaving home, but then driving with it on the highway might be a little difficult.
There are insects that fly and insects that crawl. The rooftop tent protects you from both. No matter how much padding and nailing you do with a standard tent, those creepy crawlers will still make their way inside.
Yes, you know that dealing with bugs is a possibility when you go camping, but that doesn’t mean you have to like it. The chances of a bug crawling alongside your car to get through the tent to you are rather slim.
While they can be pests, some bugs are more dangerous than others. You don’t want to run the risk of getting bit by a tick and developing the lime disease.
Keep yourself safe, guarded, and protected inside your rooftop tent. The zipper and shielding of the tent will also protect you from any bugs flying high that want to get inside.
They don’t come cheap. But, to be fair, most camping equipment these days comes with a price. If you want to make sure you have a good experience, you’ll need to spend good money. It’s never a good idea to buy cheap items and cut corners when it comes to camping.
For example, say you buy clothing that says it will keep you warm, only it doesn’t. Now you run the risk of getting frostbite while you’re out there. Or you buy a low-priced tent, but it doesn’t protect you from extreme winds and ends up blowing away.
A rooftop tent is pricey for a reason: manufacturers design them to protect you from the worst possible scenarios on a camping trip. So yes: when you purchase the rooftop tent, it will cost some money. But think about what it protects you from.
Rooftop tents can weather some of the most extreme storms since they provide more protection than standard tents. All that mounting you need to do to get the tent on top of your vehicle will actually come in handy.
The extra brackets and security mean that when strong winds come through, your temporary shelter will sustain. These tents will protect you from the elements, and many of them include additional rain covers for stormy nights on winter trips.
You never need to worry about the tent blowing away, either. If the winds aren’t powerful enough to blow your car away, then you can trust that the tent is safe.
Rooftop tents come with a little extra baggage. They might not be as lightweight as a standard tent, but you can expect that with all the protection they provide. However, you need to consider that extra bulk and how your vehicle will handle it.
Technically, you can drive with the rooftop tent on your car. Can you speed? Technically, yes, but you probably shouldn’t. Speeding with the additional weight could damage the vehicle. Your car or truck’s MPG will decrease, and the additional weight can mess with your stability while driving.
Move carefully if you need to navigate from one site to the next without dismantling the tent, and refrain from any unnecessary travel.
While the tent offers more bulk, it’s still easier to move around while camping. For example, there may be moments when you need to move from one site to another. It’s too much work to take down the tent, store it inside the car, and then set out.
With the tent secured firmly on top of the roof, you only need to worry about packing up other items. It saves you time and offers more mobility. More mobility is especially appealing to those who live the outlander life. Having to constantly take apart and put together your equipment will get tiring.
If you have a wedge rooftop tent as a form of shelter, you don’t need to worry about that as an issue.
We know all about the pros and cons of rooftop tents here at Super Pacific Inc., and we believe that the good outweighs the bad. For more information, visit our website.
Camping equipment needs to withstand and protect campers against some tough weather conditions. It won’t always be clear skies and plenty of sunshine. Even keeping a close eye on the weather reports isn’t enough to assume mother nature will be on your side. A little rain doesn’t mean canceling your trip, either. All you need is preparation. Here’s our advice for camping with a rooftop tent in the rain.
If you’re wearing a raincoat, assume your tent needs one, too. Place a large waterproof tarp on all sides of the tent. You can find large tarpaulins in any camping equipment store. Make sure the tarps aren’t extremely heavy because you’ll need to hoist and place them on top of the tent.
Anything too difficult to lift over your head will be dangerous to maneuver during heavy rainfall. Knot the tarp on the sides where the tent is secure. Make sure the knots are secure because where there is rainfall, there is wind, and you don’t want the tarp blowing away before you get a chance to get inside.
Campers always think about securing the tent, but they don’t always think about the tools and equipment. Bring some waterproof baggies to store the tools you need to set up the rooftop tent. These can be plastic bags or special bags designed to protect from the rain.
Everything won’t fit inside your rooftop tent but make sure you place the items in the baggies, so they don’t get soaked in the rain. Too much water exposure will cause your items to rust and soil. As a precaution, always store your equipment in these bags, even when the sun is shining. It will save you an extra step if the weather changes its mind.
Cotton and rain do not mix. Well, the reality is they mix too well. Cotton soaks up water like nobody’s business, and you don’t want to deal with soaked clothing or material during a camping trip. Sure, you could try to dry them out, but the hassle isn’t worth it.
Pack and wear quick-drying synthetic clothing. The same material covering your aluminum truck bed camper should line your body. You won’t have to worry about entering your camper with wet clothing and trying to get dry and warm. And the wet clothing won’t soak the interior of the rooftop tent.
Park the vehicle in a safe location during a rainstorm. Downhill wouldn’t be wise, even if the rooftop tent is above ground. Park uphill and away from any sort of water source.
Make sure the car is level and on even ground. It will be easier to set up the tent. Set the tent up before the rain starts. If you run out of time, wait it out in the car. Trying to level and assemble a rooftop tent during a storm is highly dangerous.
Here at Super Pacific Inc., we’ve got plenty of advice for camping with rooftop tents in all types of conditions—not just the rain. Visit our website for more information.
Camping is about being prepared and staying prepared. You never want to arrive at your site only to have something go wrong or malfunction without the proper equipment to salvage the problem. And that’s why we’re here to help you.
First up on the list is shelter. You want to ensure the shelter you’ve decided on is suitable and can withstand the trip you have planned, which is why it will require the proper setup. Here are seven tools you need for installing a rooftop tent.
If you are a frequent camper, then a full roof rack is the best option for you. The roof rack is not something that necessarily comes with the rooftop tent, but it is an item you need to consider purchasing. Also, it’s more of a tool to make things easier for your setup and travel.
The full roof rack allows you to evenly distribute the weight when the vehicle is stopped and is very strong when the vehicle is in motion. If you plan to travel on the highway with your rooftop tent, this rack is highly recommended. More so, you’ll need it if you plan to travel to multiple sites on your trip.
You won’t always want to dismount the rooftop tent, so keeping it strapped to the roof rack makes things easier for you. And there might be a lot of uneven ground, so the security is even better.
The crossbars, also known as longitudinal bars, are useful tools to keep close by. They work better for lightweight tents and campers who don’t plan to keep their tents mounted for an extended period.
But because they differ from a full roof rack, they are not as secure or stable. Use these bars for an occasional camping trip—one you take about once or twice out the year. Even though they work well with lightweight rooftop tents almost, crossbars can carry the weight of any rooftop tent. They are just not built for longevity.
You can install these cross bars before you’re set to travel. When you get to the site, it’ll be one less thing to install and prepare while setting up camp. Make sure they’re secure, so you deal with fewer problems later.
A box cutter may seem like an inconsequential tool, but it’s not. Use the box cutter the open the rooftop tent box. Remove the tent and then lay it on a flat surface. You can choose to install the rooftop tent before you head out, but it’s better to set it up once you reach your destination.
For starters, you’ll need to level the tent for the site. You also don’t want to travel too far on the highway with the tent attached. It can withstand a great speed can be secure if installed properly, but sometimes waiting is better.
Along with taking the tent out of the box, you never know what you might need to box cutter for. There will be additional things you need to open and cut, and having the cutter close by makes things easier for you.
The ladder and the ladder brackets are two different things. First, you’ll need to secure the ladder near the vehicle so you can reach the rooftop tent. Make sure the vehicle is parked on a relatively flat surface, so it’s easier to level the tent and keep things even.
Place the elevated park of the ladder uphill and keep the leveled park downhill. Plant the legs firmly into the ground, so you don’t go off balance or lose your footing. Now you want to take your ladder brackets and set them up. Remove the bolts from the brackets and then align them with the pre-drilled holes along the tent’s edge. Don’t tighten anything just yet.
After you’ve laid out the tent, you’ll need the ratcheting wrench for the remaining items inside the box. There are bolts, nuts, channel sliders, ladder brackets, steel mounting plates, and bolts with washers. There is also a cover, but that doesn’t have much to do with the ratcheting wrench.
This particular tool tightens and loosens nuts and bolts more efficiently than most wrenches. They attach to different-sized sockets and are versatile. Mount the channel slides parallel to the tent hinge. Align the track with the pre-drilled holes in the base of the tent.
Now you’ll want to use the ratcheting wrench to slide the bolts with washers between the mattress and the tent base. Use the wrench to tighten the bolts and ensure everything is secure.
An Allen wrench set, also known as an Allen key or hex key, is a small hand tool used to fasten screws or bolts with the hexagonal socket. You’ll need this set for this next part because it deals with a lot of tightening. Here is where you make sure everything is fastened and secure. The small tool is perfect for this task because it gets in those tight spaces where you will encounter difficulty.
Now you’ll want to set up the mounting rails. Attach the mounting rails to your tent, so you can install them on your roof rack. If you’re going the crossbar route, you’ll want to place the two-channel sliders and bolts into the mounting tracks.
Slide the channel sliders to your crossbar, lift the tent and move one slide/bolt combo, so you have one on each side of the crossbar.
Last on the list is a metal file. This is not a tool you’ll need all the time, but it’s good to keep on hand. A metal file is mainly used to remove fine amounts of material from a workplace. But their structure makes them more versatile than that.
Once you’ve secured your wedge rooftop tent and set up the mounting rails, attach the mounting rails to the roof rack. Attach the cover to the tent with the provided instructions, and then attach the tent to the roof rack and move it to the center. Remember to secure the ladder first.
Here at Super Pacific Inc., our rooftop tents will need all seven tools to ensure installation and security for your camping trip. For more information, visit our website.
A rooftop tent is a fine piece of equipment. Theft is not an uncommon thing on camping trips, and a rooftop tent is a good find. Because it’s so valuable, you need to take the necessary steps to protect the camper. You need to keep it safe and secure away from thieves. Here are three ways to prevent your rooftop tent from being stolen.
Manufacturers know how valuable rooftop tents are, and because of this, they make party favors for all campers. Some of the tents come with anti-theft straps, while others are sold separately. Either way, you want and need these straps.
Some of the straps have reinforced steel cables threaded inside the strap. The reinforced steel cables make it difficult for thieves to simply slash through the straps with a sharp object. Secure the tent to the vehicle and then reinforce its stability with these straps. Thieves will lose interest quickly and run along.
If you don’t want to go with the straps, there are specific-manufacturer locks to purchase that get the job done too. These aren’t locks you buy from and standard hardware store. Manufacturers specifically design these locks for rooftop tents.
They know exactly where to snap in place to make it difficult for thieves to release or pick. You need to mount the locks over the rooftop tent mounting bracket nuts. The locks won’t work any other way. Locking them over the brackets will ensure that thieves can’t unscrew the nuts to bypass the locks. You should see instructions included with the locks.
Hiding the tent underneath a tarp is also a good strategy. Thieves never know when owners will be returning or how much time they have to go through your possessions. This is why you need to make things harder for them.
Thieves want to get in and get out as soon as possible. Hide your tent underneath a tarp; it keeps the tent disguised and protects it from harsh weather. If you don’t feel like the tarp is enough, try placing a GPS tracker inside the tent. That way, you can call the local authorities and have them retrieve the truck bed camper for you in case it ever gets stolen.
Your rooftop tent is extremely valuable, which is why you need to follow these three tips to prevent it from being stolen. For more information, visit our website.
Even experienced campers still have a few things they need to learn. There are some supplies they’re not privy to, and before selecting and purchasing, they should do some thorough research on the products. Lucky for you, we’ve already done the research on your behalf for one particular item. Here’s what you need to know before your first truck camper purchase.
What matters first and foremost is the camper’s functionality. You want to make sure you know what your camper will do. How will you use it, and where will you use it? Think about who is going inside the camper and who will have access to it.
You want to purchase a camper that caters to the needs of you and everyone accompanying you during the camping trip. Next, you need to think about how often you will use the camper because that will determine the kind you purchase and what you need it to withstand.
Compatibility mainly focuses on your vehicle and the type of trips you take. The company you purchase your camper from can help you determine the correct kind for your car type. They will also instruct you on how you need to strap and secure it to your vehicle.
Lastly, the type of trips you take needs to factor in. Do your camping trips gear towards more remote locations? Is your favorite time to camp in the summer or the winter? These questions also play a major role because you want to purchase a camper that can protect you from the elements if necessary.
Everyone has a budget for the amount of money they’re willing to spend on adequate shelter during a camping trip. Truck bed campers vary in price, depending on functionality, materials, and the company’s pricing.
The better the protection, the higher the price. Start saving up if you have a camper in mind you want to purchase. Being thorough with your purchases and checking all the boxes off the list is crucial.
The weight and length of the camper need to be the last thing you consider. For the most part, our campers don’t weigh your car down too much and create an imposition. You can still properly drive with them attached to your vehicle, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Ask your provider about their length, width, and density recommendations. We at Super Pacific Inc. can help you determine the right-sized camper for your trip. You also want to ensure it’s big enough to fit everyone who needs to be inside.
Knowing the basics before purchasing your first truck camper will make for a successful trip. For more information, visit our website.
Going on a camping trip means having gear and equipment that can withstand all the adventures you plan. When campers think about equipment, they focus on flashlights, kitchen wear, clothing, and the tent.
It’s important to also consider the vehicle to get you to your campsite, especially if you plan to use a rooftop tent for shelter. Let us tell you the type of trucks that are best for rooftop tents.
Everyone loves a classic, and the Ford F-150 is a trusty camping truck. An F-150 is big-bodied, but that makes it ideal for rooftop tents. You’ll want a vehicle that can endure rough and uneven roads during a camping trip.
The truck’s roof is spacious enough to fit the entire tent and provides plenty of security. The bed makes things even more accessible for the average camper to set up their shelter. Manufacturers call these the “adventure-ready truck bed.” The new clamp pockets and cleats mounted on the side of the tailgate act as tie-downs for extra-long items and to secure camping materials.
Who doesn’t love a Jeep? They are reliable cars for a reason, and their trucks are no exemption. You’ll want to take the Gladiator on a camping trip. Aside from the wheels and structure of the truck excelling at handling rough roads, a rooftop tent fits in the bed comfortably.
Rooftop tents are perfect for these overland vehicles. Depending on the type of tent you purchase, you’ll have plenty of privacy for changing your clothes or trying to stay warm and dry from harsh weather. Two people can easily fit inside the tent.
The Ram 2500 is a big truck and works miracles on a camping trip. All that space is necessary for a few nights under the stars—not that you’ll be directly under them. The ram and tent combination almost makes it feel like you’re camping in your own backyard.
Make sure you purchase a tent with a polyethylene floor to keep moisture out. Most rooftop tents come with color-coded fiberglass poles that make them easy to install. The truck bed perfectly fits an air mattress over the wheel wells and flattens.
A Toyota Tacoma is made for Tacoma bed campers. You really can’t go wrong with these vehicles. They come with truck caps, but they’re more suitable for casual off-roaders. The caps are easily detachable, so you can make room for your rooftop tent. Reattach the caps when loading up all your gear. Keeping the tent and other camping supplies safe and dry is your main priority.
At Super Pacific Inc., we’re all about helping you get to your camping destination safely with all your gear. Any one of these trucks is the best for your rooftop tent, so have your pick of any camper we offer!
Rooftop tents work miracles when campers are off-roading or going on extended camping trips. However, all that driving and movement can lead to a lot of dirt and grime buildup, and the tent will take the brunt of it. And, of course, leaving it dirty is not an option. You might be wondering, “Can I go through a car wash with a rooftop tent?” We’ve got the answer.
If you’re thinking about taking your rooftop tent through a carwash, don’t. Most of these tents are built to be incredibly sturdy, but that doesn’t mean they can withstand the rigors of a carwash.
The tents can’t handle the high pressures of a touch-free carwash. The moisture from the wash will likely get past the seams of the tent and cause extensive damage. Additionally, a touch wash can snag at the tent and break something.
Cleaning your tent shouldn’t present much of a problem so long as you do it yourself. As the owner, you know the ramifications of mishandling the tent and know the areas that need to be cleaned the most. Plus, you’ll take better care of the tent.
Remove the tent from the roof of the vehicle and mix detergent and warm water together in a bucket. Next, get two microfiber cloths. One will be to wet and wash the tent, and the other will be to dry it. You will want to pat dry the wet areas as opposed to letting them air dry.
If these areas air dry, they have the potential to rust or build up residue. You don’t need a lot of detergent, either, because too much can leave a dusty residue on the tent.
Gauging the right time to clean the tent depends on the owner. Some clean their tents as soon as they get some from their trips; others will leave the task for another day. Depending on the type of excursion you just embarked on, you may want to clean your aluminum truck bed camper as soon as possible.
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity of these tents. Too much neglect is a quick way to increase damage and potentially force you to buy a new tent sooner rather than later. Here at Super Pacific, Inc., our tents are built to last, especially when you take good care of them.
So, the next time you think about putting your rooftop tent through a carwash, don’t. For more information, visit our website.
Traveling and camping with a rooftop tent involves more than just attaching it to the roof of your car. The same goes for a standard tent. You can’t just pitch it on any campsite; you need to ensure that it’s secure and you’ve found the right place for it. A rooftop tent is no different. There might be times when you need to readjust it, and we can help you. Here’s a quick guide to leveling a rooftop tent.
With a rooftop tent, you don’t want to sleep on unleveled ground. For starters, you’ll never get your tent leveled if the ground is uneven. Because you’re outside, you won’t find a completely flat surface as you would indoors. Instead, find the flattest surface you can for a campsite and park your car there.
Your vehicle will deal with most of the unevenness, so you don’t have to worry too much about making it perfect. Even if you’re not camping in a traditional park, you still want to find a relatively flat location.
You’ll need a ladder to get on top of your vehicle to level your tent. Make sure you position your tent ladder uphill. If your ladder is positioned downhill, it might not even reach the ground.
Point the ladder uphill and level the non-ladder side as much as possible. Finding a relatively flat surface is important because you don’t want to be off-balanced when making sure your tent is secure and even.
Humans make mistakes, which is why you need tools to reduce errors. Don’t rely on your intuition and eyes to take measurements. Bring tools to take precise measurements.
You’ll want to bring either a T level, an electronic level, or a level app on your phone. Leveling blocks and a shovel are also good tools to consider depending on your site location. You might need to do some digging or use the blocks to make the ground even for your vehicle.
Remember what your rooftop tent is attached to. It’s on top of your vehicle, and that means you need to level your car just as much as your tent. You might need to elevate one side of your vehicle with the leveling block, or you can use the natural resources around you, like rocks or scraps of wood.
It won’t be too difficult to get leveled, especially if you have one of our lightweight truck campers. Just make sure the rocks and wood are big and secure enough to hold the weight of the car without causing any damage.
Here at Super Pacific Inc., we are more than happy to provide you with more information and tips on camping in addition to this guide on leveling rooftop tents. Visit our website for more information.
