Best SUV Tents: Detailed Review For 2024

This is our review for the Best SUV Tents

I spent 2 days researching and testing to create this article.

This article will help you find an SUV tent that is best for your needs, considering factors such as size, design, durability, ventilation, and your circumstances.

List Of The Best SUV Tents

Top 7 Best SUV Tents

I have reviewed and tested 7 SUV tents that are best and will be available in 2024, based on customer feedback, expert opinions, and personal experience.

We provide a brief description of each tent, key features, pros and cons, and a link to buy.

I love camping with the Napier Family-Tents Sportz SUV Tent. It is my favorite choice for SUV Tent camping. I was able to set it in 15 minutes which is an amazing thing. It has a lot of space inside and comfortably can fit up to six people. One thing I like about it is how convenient it is.

It can connect to the cargo area of my SUV or minivan which gives me more room to relax, but it can also stand on its own as a regular tent. If I don’t want to attach it to my vehicle, I still have two separate entries, so I can get in and out easily.

Another thing I appreciate about the Napier Family-Tents Sportz SUV Tent is its really good ventilation. The full rainfly lets the air circulate, and the tight seal keeps me dry and bug-free.

Inside, it has some nice features, such as a built-in gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder to keep my stuff organized. Plus, it has an optional floorless screen room that adds extra protection from the wind and rain.

The Napier Family-Tents Sportz SUV Tent is made from strong polyester material that can handle any weather conditions.

The North East Harbor Universal SUV Camping Tent is a great SUV Tent that you can get without breaking the bank. It’s easy to set up and take down, thanks to its simple design and sturdy poles.

It can hold up to six people comfortably, with enough room for sleeping bags, pillows, and gear. It also has two doors and two windows for easy access and ventilation.

The North East Harbor SUV Camping Tent is versatile and convenient. I can detach it from my car and use it as a regular tent. It comes with a rainfly that I can remove or attach as needed, depending on the weather conditions.

The tent is made of high-quality polyester fabric that is water-resistant and durable. It has reinforced corners and edges to prevent tearing and puncturing. The tent also features a spacious interior with multiple pockets and compartments to store my belongings.

I love the large storage bag that comes with the tent, which can hold up to 40 pounds of stuff.

The North East Harbor SUV Camping Tent is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable and affordable shelter for their family trips. It’s lightweight at 19 pounds, so I can easily carry it in my car or backpack. It’s also compact when folded, so I can store it away when not in use.

I have the Rightline Gear SUV Tent and I think it’s a great value for my money. It fits my SUV perfectly and gives me a comfortable and convenient shelter. It can fit up to four people and two SUVs, depending on the size of my vehicle.

It has two doors, and three windows, all with no-see-um mesh and storm covers that can be closed for privacy or left open for fresh air and light

The Rightline Gear SUV Tent is easy to set up and take down, thanks to its simple design and sturdy poles. It comes with a rainfly that I can remove or attach as needed, depending on the weather conditions.

The rainfly also helps keep the interior dry and warm. The tent has a spacious interior with multiple pockets and compartments to store my belongings. I also appreciate the large storage bag that comes with the tent, which can hold up to 40 pounds of stuff.

The tent is made of high-quality polyester fabric that is water-resistant and durable. It has reinforced corners and edges to prevent tearing and puncturing. The tent also features a sturdy frame that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

The tent is lightweight at 22.7 pounds, so it is easy to carry it in my car or backpack. It’s also compact when folded, so I can store it away when not in use.

I enjoy rooftop camping with the Front Runner Rooftop Tent. It fits on top of my car and gives me a panoramic view of the surroundings. It can fit up to three people and one car, depending on the size of my vehicle. It has two large doors and three windows for easy access and ventilation.

The Front Runner Rooftop Tent is easy to set up and take down, thanks to its simple design and color-coded poles. It comes with a waterproof and UV-resistant rainfly that I can remove or attach as needed, depending on the weather conditions. The rainfly also helps keep the interior dry and warm.

The tent has a spacious interior with a high-density foam mattress and a washable cover. I also appreciate the durable and heavy-duty tent cover that protects my tent while stowed and in transit.

The tent is made of high-quality polyester fabric that is water-resistant and durable. It has a PE bathtub floor that prevents water entry and a 2000mm water-resistant coating that keeps the interior dry and warm.

The tent also features a sturdy frame that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The tent is lightweight at 95 lbs (43 kg), so I can easily carry it in my car or backpack. It’s also low profile when folded, so it reduces wind resistance and lowers the vehicle’s total height.

The tent is the best rooftop tent, as it offers a comfortable and convenient shelter that allows me to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. It also provides easy access to my gear and power in the cargo area of my vehicle.

It is also suitable for three-season camping, as it adapts to different vehicles and weather conditions.

I have the Napier Outdoors Sportz Cove Tent and I think it’s a great awning that provides shade and shelter for fishing trips. It connects to the cargo area of my car and gives me easy access to my fishing gear and power.

It can fit up to two people and one car, depending on the size of my vehicle. It has a mesh screen door that keeps the bugs out and lets the breeze in.

The Napier Outdoors Sportz Cove is easy to set up and take down, thanks to its simple design and one shock-corded fiberglass pole. It does not have a rainfly, but a built-in storm flap that offers additional weather protection and privacy. The awning does not have a floor or a peak height, but extends over 2 feet from the back of my car, creating a spacious and sheltered area.

The awning is made of high-quality polyester taffeta and polyester mesh that are water-resistant and durable. It has a PE bathtub floor that prevents water entry and a 1200mm water-resistant coating that keeps the interior dry and warm.

The awning also features heavy-duty straps and buckles that provide stability and strength. The awning is lightweight at 7 lbs, so I can easily carry it in my car or backpack. It’s also compact when folded, so I can store it away when not in use.

I use the KingCamp Melfi Plus SUV Car Camping Tent when I go camping with my family and my SUV. It connects to the back of my car and gives me a spacious and comfortable shelter. 

It can sleep up to six people, with two in the vehicle cargo area and four in the tent. It has two doors and three windows for easy access and ventilation.

This Tent is easy to set up and take down, thanks to its simple design and color-coded poles and pole pockets. It comes with a rainfly that I can remove or attach as needed, depending on the weather conditions. 

The rainfly also helps keep the interior dry and warm. The tent has a large floor size of 120” x 120” (305cm x 305cm), and a high peak height of 87” (221cm), which makes it one of the tallest SUV tents on the market. I also appreciate the large awning that provides shade and extra outdoor living space.

The tent is made of high-quality polyester fabric that is water-resistant and durable, with a 3000mm PU waterproof coating and F/R flame retardant treatment. It has reinforced corners and edges to prevent tearing and puncturing. 

The tent also features a sturdy frame that can withstand harsh weather conditions, with fiberglass poles and heavy-duty straps and buckles. The tent weighs 37.3 lbs (16.91 kg), which is relatively light for an SUV tent. It’s also compact when folded, with a packed size of 32” x 15” x 15” (81cm x 38cm x 38cm), which can fit in a small car trunk.

The tent is best for family camping, as it offers a spacious and comfortable living space, a convenient connection to your vehicle, and a large awning for shade. It is also suitable for three-season camping, as it adapts to different vehicles and weather conditions.

SUV Tent Buyer’s Guide

1. Determine Your Needs and Preferences

First and foremost, assess your specific camping requirements and preferences. Think about the number of people you’ll be camping with, the kind of trips you enjoy, and any additional features you might need. Keep these factors in mind while browsing through various SUV tents.

2. Types of SUV Tents

There are different types of SUV tents available, each with its unique features and benefits:

1. Conversion-style Tents: These tents attach to the rear of your vehicle and offer a seamless connection between your tent and SUV. They are perfect for quick access to their vehicle and its contents.
2. Standalone-style Tents: These tents function as a separate living space next to your vehicle. They can be connected to your SUV but also work independently, providing more versatility.
3. Rooftop-style Tents: These tents mount directly on your vehicle’s roof, offering an elevated sleeping area with a unique experience. They are great for those who prefer to be off the ground and away from potential critters.
4. Awning-style Tents: These tents act as an extension to your vehicle, providing shade and shelter from the elements without fully enclosing the space. They are ideal for those who want a versatile shelter without the need for a full tent.

3. Pros and Cons of Each Type

Each SUV-type tent has its advantages and disadvantages:

• Conversion-style Tents:
  • Pros: Easy access to the vehicle, seamless connection, added security
  • Cons: Limited space, may not be compatible with all vehicles
• Standalone-style Tents:
  • Pros: Versatility, larger living space, can be used independently from the vehicle
  • Cons: Requires more setup time, may not provide the same level of security
• Rooftop-style Tents:
  • Pros: Elevated sleeping area, unique camping experience, better protection from wildlife
  • Cons: Requires roof rack or load bars, can be difficult to set up, limited space
• Awning-style Tents:
  • Pros: Versatility, easy setup, provides shade and shelter
  • Cons: Limited protection from elements, not a fully enclosed space

4. Consider Your Vehicle Type

It’s essential to ensure the SUV tent you choose is compatible with your specific vehicle. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and measure your vehicle’s dimensions to avoid any disappointment.

5. Compare Suitable Models

Once you have a clear understanding of the type that suits your needs, compare various suitable models. Look for reviews, ratings, and feedback from other campers to help you make an informed decision. By taking the time to weigh the pros and cons of each option, you’ll be able to select an SUV tent for your unique camping needs.

6. Material and Durability

The durability and material of SUV tents play a critical role in their performance, longevity, and ability to withstand various weather conditions. When it comes to choosing the best material for an SUV tent, you should consider factors like weather resistance, durability, weight, and breathability. Some of the best materials used in SUV tents include:

Polyester

Polyester is a widely used material for SUV tents due to its lightweight nature, water resistance, and UV protection. High-quality polyester tents often come with a polyurethane (PU) coating, which enhances their water resistance and durability. However, polyester is less breathable than other materials, so it’s essential to have good ventilation features like mesh windows and vents to prevent condensation.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene is a heavy-duty, waterproof material commonly used for tent floors or as a groundsheet. This material is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for long-lasting tents. However, it is heavier than polyester and less breathable, so it is typically not used for the tent’s main body.

Canvas

Canvas tents, usually made from cotton or a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers, are known for their durability, breathability, and excellent insulation properties. Canvas is naturally water-resistant, and modern canvas tents often come with a water-repellent treatment to enhance their weather protection.

While canvas tents are more durable and comfortable in various weather conditions, they tend to be heavier and require more maintenance than synthetic materials.

Ripstop nylon

Ripstop nylon is a strong, lightweight, and water-resistant material commonly used in high-quality tents. It features a unique reinforcing technique that makes it resistant to tearing and ripping. Ripstop nylon is often coated with silicone or polyurethane to enhance its water resistance and durability.

7. Ease of Setup

One of the essential factors to consider when choosing an SUV tent is the ease of setup. A quick and straightforward installation process allows you to spend more time enjoying your trip and less time struggling with poles and instructions.

Here are some aspects to look for in terms of ease of setup:

1. Intuitive design: The tent should have a well-designed structure that allows for easy assembly and disassembly. Look for color-coded poles or clear attachment points that make the process more intuitive.
2. Minimal tools required: The best SUV tents can be set up with little to no additional tools, relying on the included poles, stakes, and guy lines for a secure setup.
3. Clear instructions: A good SUV tent should come with easy-to-follow instructions, either in a printed manual or available online. This will help ensure a smooth setup process, even for first-time users.

8. Ventilation and Insulation

Proper ventilation and insulation are crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment inside your SUV tent. A well-ventilated tent can prevent condensation and help regulate the temperature inside your tent, while adequate insulation protects you from the elements. Here are some key features to consider for ventilation and insulation:

• Mesh windows and vents: Mesh windows and vents provide essential airflow, allowing fresh air to circulate while keeping bugs out. Look for tents with multiple mesh windows and vents for optimal ventilation.
• Flexible venting options: The ability to open or close vents, windows, or doors can help regulate the tent’s temperature and airflow, making it more comfortable in various weather conditions.
• Rainfly with vents: A rainfly not only offers added protection from rain and wind but can also provide additional ventilation when designed with vents or adjustable flaps.

9. Capacity and Storage

The capacity and storage of an SUV tent are essential factors to consider, as they determine the number of occupants the tent can accommodate and the amount of gear it can store. Here are some aspects to consider regarding capacity and storage:

• Size and number of sleeping occupants: Determine the number of people you plan to accommodate in your tent and choose a tent with an appropriate capacity. Keep in mind that it’s often better to opt for a tent with a slightly larger capacity than required to ensure ample space and comfort for all occupants.
• Additional storage space: Many SUV tents come with built-in storage pockets, gear lofts, or vestibules to help you organize and store your camping equipment. Consider the amount of gear you typically bring on your trips and choose a tent with sufficient storage options to meet your needs.
• Vehicle access: Some SUV tents offer easy access to your vehicle’s storage areas, allowing you to make the most of your vehicle’s capacity for storing gear and equipment. This can be particularly useful for extended camping trips or when camping with a large group.

Final Thoughts

SUV tents are a great way to enjoy camping without sacrificing comfort or convenience. They can provide you with a spacious and versatile shelter that can fit your vehicle and your family.

However, not all SUV tents are created equal. Some may have better features, quality, or value than others. That’s why we have reviewed the top 7 best SUV tents on the market and ranked them according to their performance, durability, and customer satisfaction.

We hope this article has helped you find the best SUV tent for your camping needs. Whether you want a tent that can fit your whole family and your SUV, a tent that can convert from a car to a cabin, or a tent that can fit any vehicle and any number of people, we have you covered.

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