A softshell rooftop tent can turn an SUV into a ready-to-use campsite, but the right choice depends on more than sleeping capacity. You’ll want to check your roof rack and vehicle limits, compare the packed tent’s weight with your setup, and consider how much weather protection and interior room you need. These five options range from a straightforward three-person tent to larger models with quick-deploy features. Product specifications below are based on the supplied product information; confirm fit and details with the manufacturer before buying.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Tent | Listed capacity | Standout features | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK | 3 people | Foam mattress, skylight, poly-cotton ripstop canvas | Campers who want a simple, established-style softshell setup |
| Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L | 3 people | 4.5-inch mattress, 4,000 mm waterproof rating, LED strip | Frequent movers who value quick deployment |
| ActiveTrail Soft Shell Rooftop Tent | 2 adults and 1 child | 10,000 mm waterproof rating, panoramic sunroof, LED lighting | Small families looking for extra weather protection on paper |
| BVWBCR Softshell Rooftop Tent | 2–4 people, depending on size | Three size options, 60 mm mattress, optional annex | Buyers who want to choose their sleeping-area width |
| UVPSJDE Hydraulic-Open Rooftop Tent | 3–5 people, as listed | Hydraulic support rods, foam mattress, telescopic ladder | Families or groups prioritizing fast setup and more listed capacity |
Our Picks: Best Softshell Rooftop Tents For Suvs reviews
1. Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK: A Straightforward Three-Person Pick
The TMBK is a softshell tent listed for three people and a range of vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, trailers, and cars. Its design focuses on core camping comforts: a high-density foam mattress with a cotton cover, breathable windows, and an integrated skylight for extra light and views.
The tent body is described as heavy-duty, tear-resistant poly-cotton ripstop canvas, with a waterproof rainfly for protection from rain and snow. An aluminum-plated base and marine-grade stainless steel hardware round out the construction. These materials are appealing for regular outdoor use, though the product details do not provide a packed weight or a numeric waterproof rating for the tent body.
Installation depends on having a suitable rack, and the manufacturer specifically recommends checking the vehicle’s load limits. That is especially important for an SUV, since the tent, rack, and occupants all need to be considered when planning a safe setup. Compared with the other picks, the TMBK has fewer listed convenience extras, but it covers the basics without relying on a quick-open mechanism.
Pros:
- Includes a high-density foam mattress with a cotton cover.
- Skylight and breathable windows support light and airflow.
- Uses ripstop canvas, an aluminum-plated base, and stainless steel hardware.
- Listed for use with several vehicle types when paired with a suitable rack.
Cons:
- Compatible rack and vehicle load capacity must be checked separately.
- Product details do not list a packed weight or numeric waterproof rating.
Verdict: Choose the TMBK if you want a three-person softshell tent with a mattress and skylight, and you can confirm that your SUV rack and roof can support the setup.
2. Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L: Quick Deployment and a Thick Mattress
The Apolle TNT L is listed as a three-person softshell tent with a rapid clamshell-style deployment. The product description says it pops into place in under a minute and uses a telescopic aluminum ladder. A 4.5-inch high-density foam mattress is a notable feature for campers who want a thicker built-in sleeping surface.
Its listed weather features include a 4,000 mm waterproof rating, snow resistance, and sun protection. The tent also has multiple screened openings, two side doors, front and back windows, and a skylight. An included LED strip adds interior lighting, while the supplied mounting hardware and other accessories may reduce the number of separate parts you need to source.
The listing says the mounting hardware works with most standard roof racks, but that does not establish fit for every SUV or rack system. Check the tent’s dimensions, mounting arrangement, and total supported load before purchase. Its feature set is more extensive than the TMBK’s, but there is less listed detail about base construction and fabric composition.
Pros:
- Listed for three people with a 4.5-inch foam mattress.
- Rapid deployment and packing are designed for multi-stop trips.
- Includes an LED strip, telescopic ladder, mounting hardware, and other accessories.
- Multiple screened openings and a skylight offer ventilation options.
Cons:
- “Fits most standard roof racks” still requires a fit check for your specific setup.
- Confirm the tent’s dimensions and packed weight before committing to an SUV roof system.
Verdict: The Apolle TNT L is a strong candidate if fast deployment, a thick mattress, and included accessories matter more to you than a detailed published weight or mounting specification.
3. ActiveTrail Soft Shell Rooftop Tent: Weather-Focused Space for a Small Family
ActiveTrail lists this tent as sleeping two adults and one child, with interior dimensions of 86.6 by 51.2 by 48.4 inches and a stated 660-pound capacity. Those measurements give families a more concrete starting point than a person count alone, but it is still wise to compare the sleeping area with your actual occupants and bedding.
The product description calls out double-stitched Oxford fabric, a polyester-cotton interior, a 10,000 mm waterproof rating, and UPF 50+ protection. It also lists a heavy-duty aluminum frame, 304 stainless steel brackets, a foam mattress, ventilated windows, and a panoramic sunroof. A built-in LED light and 7.5-foot telescopic ladder are included.
The stated weather ratings are among the highest in this group, but a rating alone cannot answer every question about storm performance. Check how the rainfly is designed, how the tent is secured, and what conditions the manufacturer recommends. Its listed sleeping capacity is more modest than the UVPSJDE model, which may make this a better fit for a small family than a larger group.
Pros:
- Provides interior measurements and a stated 660-pound capacity.
- Lists a 10,000 mm waterproof rating and UPF 50+ protection.
- Includes a foam mattress, panoramic sunroof, and LED lighting.
- Telescopic ladder folds down for storage, according to the product details.
Cons:
- Listed capacity is two adults and one child, so it may not suit a larger group.
- Confirm packed weight and rack requirements, which are not specified in the supplied details.
Verdict: Consider the ActiveTrail if you camp with one child and value clear interior dimensions and a high stated waterproof rating, after confirming roof and rack compatibility.
4. BVWBCR Softshell Rooftop Tent: Choose the Sleeping Width You Need
BVWBCR offers this tent in three listed sizes, with sleeping areas of 140 by 240 cm, 160 by 240 cm, or 190 by 240 cm. The product description gives a capacity range of two to four people depending on the size. That choice of width is useful if you want to match the tent to your usual group rather than assume that one size will work for every SUV and camping style.
The tent includes a 60 mm foam mattress with a washable cover. Its stated materials include a 420D diamond polyester Oxford rainfly rated at 2,500 mm, a 420D ripstop tent body rated at 3,000 mm, and a 680g/1200D PVC travel cover. The frame uses anodized aluminum poles, and the listing describes the ladder as anodized aluminum as well.
Universal mounting brackets are included, but roof rack bars are required. The tent is described as folding out in seconds for one-person operation. An annex is available separately, and the Pro version is described as having two skylights. Confirm exactly which size and version you are ordering, since those details affect the sleeping area and included features.
Pros:
- Three size options provide a choice of sleeping-area width.
- Includes a 60 mm mattress with a washable cover.
- Provides separate stated waterproof ratings for the rainfly and tent body.
- Optional annex can add a separate sheltered area.
Cons:
- Roof rack bars are required and are not described as included.
- The annex is sold separately, and skylights vary by version.
Verdict: The BVWBCR is worth considering if you want to select a specific sleeping width, but verify the size, version, accessories, and rack fit before ordering.
5. UVPSJDE Hydraulic-Open Rooftop Tent: Fast Setup for a Larger Group
This tent uses hydraulic support rods intended to help it open quickly with a light push. Its product description lists a capacity of three to five people, a high-resilience foam mattress, and a retractable ladder. The stated capacity is generous, but the supplied details do not give interior dimensions, so check the actual sleeping area before planning for a family or group.
The tent is described as using thickened Oxford fabric with a PU waterproof coating, along with aluminum alloy poles and stainless steel brackets. The listing presents the fabric as windproof, rainproof, moisture-resistant, and sun-protective, but it does not provide a numeric waterproof rating. That makes it harder to compare directly with models that publish one.
The product is listed as compatible with most SUVs, off-road vehicles, and pickup trucks equipped with roof racks, with mounting accessories included. As with any rooftop tent, “most” does not mean every vehicle: check the mounting hardware, rack spacing, roof limits, and packed dimensions. The fast-opening design could be useful for frequent stops, while the missing weight and interior measurements are important details to confirm.
Pros:
- Hydraulic support rods are designed for quick, tool-free deployment.
- Listed capacity of three to five people may suit larger camping groups.
- Includes a foam mattress, telescopic ladder, and mounting accessories.
- Uses aluminum alloy poles and stainless steel brackets, according to the product details.
Cons:
- No numeric waterproof rating or interior measurements are provided in the supplied details.
- Confirm packed weight and specific rack compatibility before purchase.
Verdict: Pick the UVPSJDE if fast opening and a higher listed capacity are priorities, but first verify that its actual sleeping dimensions and weight work for your SUV.
How to Choose a Softshell Rooftop Tent for Your SUV
Confirm Your SUV and Roof Rack Can Carry It
Before comparing mattresses or windows, check your vehicle owner’s manual for roof-load limits and confirm the rack is rated for a rooftop tent. The rack must also match the tent’s mounting system and bar spacing. Consider the full setup, not just the tent: mounting hardware and other gear add weight, and the vehicle’s limits still apply when the tent is in use.
Compare Sleeping Dimensions, Not Just Person Counts
A listed capacity is a starting point, not a guarantee that everyone will have comfortable room. Compare the tent’s interior length and width with the number and size of the people who will sleep in it. The ActiveTrail and BVWBCR descriptions include interior measurements or selectable sleeping-area sizes, while other listings provide capacity without the same level of dimension detail.
Check Mattress Thickness and Sleeping Setup
Included mattresses vary in thickness and construction. The Meedo listing specifies a 4.5-inch foam mattress, while BVWBCR lists a 60 mm mattress with a washable cover. The other models describe foam mattresses without giving the same thickness details. If you use a particular pillow, sleeping bag, or bedding, check the usable space so it fits alongside the built-in mattress.
Read Weather Claims in Context
Waterproof ratings can help you compare listed specifications, but they do not tell the whole story of how a tent will perform in every storm. Consider the rainfly, seams, ventilation, and the manufacturer’s recommended conditions. Among these options, ActiveTrail lists a 10,000 mm rating and Meedo lists 4,000 mm; BVWBCR provides separate ratings for the rainfly and body. The TMBK and UVPSJDE descriptions do not provide a numeric rating in the supplied details.
Think About Setup and Pack-Down
If you move camp often, a quick-deploy design may save time. Meedo describes rapid clamshell deployment, and UVPSJDE uses hydraulic support rods for quick opening. Other models have different folding or setup designs, so check the included instructions and consider whether you can manage the process with your usual camping companions.
Measure the Roof and Check the Packed Profile
Rooftop tents take up space even when closed. Before choosing one, compare its packed dimensions with your rack and vehicle roof, and make sure it will not interfere with other gear you plan to carry. The supplied descriptions do not provide packed dimensions for every model, so ask the seller or manufacturer if that information is missing.
Check What Comes in the Box
Included items can affect what else you need to buy. Some listings specify a mattress, ladder, mounting hardware, lighting, or shoe bags, while BVWBCR describes an optional annex sold separately. Confirm the exact version and included accessories before ordering, especially when a product offers several sizes or configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will any softshell rooftop tent fit any SUV?
No. A tent may be marketed for SUVs but still require a compatible roof rack, suitable bar spacing, and enough vehicle load capacity. Check the tent’s mounting requirements along with your SUV and rack manuals before buying.
How many people can sleep in a rooftop tent?
Capacity varies by model. The tents in this guide are listed for two to five people, but a capacity claim does not replace checking the sleeping-area dimensions. Compare those measurements with your group and the bedding you plan to use.
Is a higher waterproof rating always the best choice?
A higher listed rating can be a useful comparison point, but it is only one part of weather protection. Look at the whole design, including the rainfly, seams, ventilation, and the conditions recommended by the manufacturer.
Do these tents include a roof rack?
The supplied product information does not establish that a vehicle roof rack is included. Some models include mounting hardware or brackets, but that is not the same as a complete rack. Check the package details for the exact model and size you choose.
Can one person set up a softshell rooftop tent?
Some of the listed tents describe one-person operation or quick deployment, but setup may still depend on the tent design, vehicle height, and your ability to reach the mounting points. Read the setup instructions and confirm whether assistance is recommended.
What should I compare besides sleeping capacity?
Compare roof compatibility, tent weight, packed dimensions, mattress details, weather specifications, setup method, and included accessories. These details are often more useful for choosing a tent than the person count alone.
Final Recommendation
For a balanced three-person setup with a mattress and skylight, the Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK is a straightforward option if your rack and SUV can support it. If faster deployment and a thicker mattress are your priorities, consider the Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L. For a small family comparing stated weather specifications, the ActiveTrail offers useful dimensions and a listed 10,000 mm waterproof rating. Whichever model you choose, confirm the exact sleeping area, mounting fit, packed dimensions, and vehicle load limits before ordering.
