Having a roof tent for your truck enhances the camping experience by a two-fold. No longer do you have to worry about finding a spot and setting up a tent late at night. Every night becomes a comfortable, bug-free, water-leak-free, experience. Roof tents are commonly used for Jeeps, Landrovers, Cars, and SUVS, but this list covers the best truck bed tents for your truck bed or roof.
A truck camping tent is actually very easy to use and compacts into a very small case, so it’s barely noticeable when not in use. They’re increasing in popularity year-after-year, and for good reason. Roof tents used to fly under the radar, the general public either wasn’t aware or assumed they’re too expensive. However these days truck bed tents are more affordable than ever! Here are the 8 Best Truck bed tent reviews of the year.
Best Truck Tent Comparison List
Best Truck Bed Tents
Best Truck Tent Overall
1. Smittybilt Overlander
- Standard size tent (sleeps 2-3) with high-density 92" x 55" foam double/full mattress and 661 lb. max load
- 600D heavy-duty waterproof top and rain fly; sunroof; side windows with mosquito netting; anodized aluminum...
One of the best truck roof tents sold today is this one by Smittybilt. This truck roof tent will give you a wonderful insect and bug free sleep camping experience on your camping adventure. It can accommodate 2-3 people and comes with a 92″ x 55″ foam mattress that can support up to 661 lbs. To keep you protected from bugs and insects, the tent has proper netting and side windows. The waterproof top will keep you dry in times of rain, and the sunroof will help you get a wake-up view from the outside.
The PVC cover will make sure the tent is dry and safe from UV rays. If you wish to opt for a tent annex, you can purchase it separately. The tent comes equipped with a mounting bracket. This roof tent is also available in XL size that can accommodate 3-4 people.
Customers who have purchased this tent have described their camping experience to be great. They have talked about the interior of the roof tent that has 4 inner pockets as well as storage area. Customers have also appreciated the price range of the roof tent and how it has so much to offer in the given price range. Although customers have complaints about the interior storage, they are still satisfied with the design.
Overview:
- Accommodates 2-3 people
- Waterproof
- Easy to set up
- Reasonably priced
- Product can support up to 661 Ibs
- Netted windows
- Telescopic ladder for support
- Available in XL
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Best Roof Top Tent
2. Tuff Stuff Ranger Overland Rooftop Tent with Annex Room
Another roof tent to carry when going on camping adventures, this tent by Tuff Stuff can provide you with a comfortable camping experience.
The tent comes equipped with a 2.5″ high-density foam mattress. The setting and opening of the tent can be done within minutes. When not in use, the tent can be folded on either side of the vehicle.
The tent is made using 280g poly cotton fabric and comes with a waterproof coating. The roof tent has been designed specifically to provide comfort and convenience during traveling. It mounts easily on vehicles with a cross bar and has a storage area inside. The sleeping area is large enough to fit in 2 adults, and the annex room can fit in a queen size mattress.
Customers who have used this product have described it to be a well-built tent. They have shared that they had a comfortable sleeping experience when using these tents. While customers do have complaints about the customer service provided by the company, the product has overall been appreciated.
Overview:
- Open dimensions: 56″ W X 96″ L X 52″ H
- Closed dimensions: 12″ H x 56″ W x 48″ L
- Easy setup
- 3 Screened windows
- 2.5″ foam mattress
- Waterproof coating
- Accommodates 2 people
Best Truck Bed Tent
3. ARB 804100 Simpson III Brown Rooftop Tent
Overview:
- Annex for additional space
- Made from high-quality poly cotton
- Water-shedding abilities
- Retractable ladder provided
- High-density foam mattress with a removable cover
ARB, a tent manufacturer company, is known to provide quality products. It launches products with improvements to make sure customer satisfaction is guaranteed.
This rooftop tent by ARB comes with an annex which provides an additional living space if required. This additional space can fit children and cots. The tent is made using high-quality poly cotton fabric and has water-shedding abilities.
With the tent comes a high-density foam mattress with a removable cover. The windows of the tent are screened to prevent insects and bugs from crawling in. Besides this, the tent has a removable cover on the foam mattress and a bungee cord that assists in closing. These features may not be found in other rooftop tents and are important if you are a fan of sleeping comfortably.
Customers who have purchased the product have found it to be well built. They have said that it provides good protection against rain and will allow you to get through storms without getting wet. Overall, the tent is easy to set up and use. You won’t have trouble opening it either as it doesn’t come with a lot of complications.
Best Truck Tent for Toyota Tundra & Tacoma
4. Danchel Outdoor Hard-Shell Rooftop Tent
- 【SIZE】:Open:7*4*3ft/83*50*35inch,Close:7*4*1ft//83*50*11inch
- 【MATERIAL】: Body fabric,280GSM CANVAS PU2000mm, waterproof, anti-uv 50+. 3.15-inch super-soft mattress....
Overview:
- Open dimensions: 210 x 125 x 90 cm (82.7 x 49.2 x 35.4 inches)
- Closed dimensions: 210 x 125 x 28 cm (82.7 x 49.2 x 11 inches)
- Accommodates 2 adults and 1 child
- Includes a flashlight, ladder and bag for storage
Going on an adventure? Don’t want to sleep on a typical ground tent? Scared of bugs and insects crawling in your tent? This tent is the ultimate solution for all these problems.
This rooftop tent comes with open dimensions of 210 x 125 x 90 cm (82.7 x 49.2 x 35.4 inches) and closed dimensions of 210 x 125 x 28 cm (82.7 x 49.2 x 11 inches). This item fits well on vehicles that come with cross bars and have roof rails. It can accommodate 2 adults and 1 child.
This rooftop tent is perfect for camping purposes. It will make sure you get a relaxing sleep. The tent has been created in a way to facilitate comfort and keep the consumer protected from insects and bugs. You can make your camping experience even better by getting this hard-shell roof tent.
Carry this roof tent with you while going on an adventure and get a home-like experience by staying in it. You no longer have to worry about the discomfort faced by staying in normal camping tents with this roof tent.
Customer reviews regarding the product state that it is a well-built and comfortable roof tent. The overall interior of the tent is designed nicely to make sure the user can get a comfortable stay.
Best Truck Roof Top Tent
5. Napier 57122 Full Size Regular Box 57 Series Sportz Truck Tent w/ Rain Fly
- Only truck tent on the market with a Patented sewn in floor
- Larger interior area with over 5.6 feet of headroom
Overview:
- Napier Patented Sewn Floor
- 5.6 ft headroom – nice and roomy
- 2 big windows, 2 vents in the side, optional middle divider
- Rear access door into truck cab
- Color coded poles and sleeves for fast set-up
This Napier Truck Tent has caught customer attention because of the way it has been created. This roof tent is made using high-quality material that makes it durable and suitable for use in extreme weather. It is made using poly cotton fabric, which keeps it protected from wear and tear.
The fabric is breathable and very comfortable, so you won’t feel any discomfort. The tent is long-lasting since it is made using water-shedding ability. Once bought and used, the user will not have to go through the hassle of repairing and replacement.
People have reported a good experience with the use of this product, stating that in severe weather conditions such as rain, it kept them dry. They have also talked about the comfort provided by the mattress that the tent provides.
Best DIY Truck Tent
6. Camco Vehicle Roof Top Tent
- Safe and secure camping with multiple mounting configurations - left or right side of vehicle, rear of vehicle...
- Easily mounts to most factory or aftermarket roof racks or load bars
Overview:
- Open dimensions: 56″ x 112″ x 49
- Weight: 130 pounds
- Annex may be added
- Lightweight
- Weather-resistant
- Accommodates 3 people
- Sturdy ladder provided for support
This roof tent is marketed as a less expensive alternative to most popular tents. The packed dimensions of this rooftop tent by Camco are 58.2″ x 48″ x 11.5″, and it weighs 130 pounds. This tent is made using nylon, which is lightweight and water-resistant. It also comes with a high-density mattress that provides comfort. The tent is suitable for use in all types of weather conditions.
This reasonably priced roof tent comes equipped with all the basic necessities you might be looking for in a tent. No need for an upgrade or investing in expensive tents as this will meet all your requirements. It comes with several mounting configurations, allowing you to place it on either the left or the right side. It is also very easy to set up and comes enclosed with mounting brackets and wrenches. Metal rods are also provided for window awnings. All of this could be stored in a handy truck chest storage box.
As far as accommodation is concerned, this tent can fit 3 people who can sleep side by side. It is a great choice for couples, and families with one or two children may also opt for it. A ladder is also provided that supports the tent, which is sturdy and can easily hold it.
A very important concern with roof tents is ventilation. The Camco roof tent comes with a built-in air vent that provides ventilation facilities, but the windows and doors are built in a way to keep insects out. Its most praised features are its spacious interior, excellent ventilation, a dense mattress and a secure ladder.
Customers who have purchased this roof tent have described it to be spacious and comfortable. They have further added that it is quick to assemble and fold. Besides this, the tent has space for storing things.
Best Truck Tent for Dodge Ram
7. Tuff Stuff Delta Overland Rooftop Tent
- ✅Aluminized coated
- ✅150T Rip stop polyester Oxford
Overview:
- Closed dimensions: 14″ H x 56″ W x 48″ L
- Open dimensions: 56″ W x 96″ L x 52″ H
- Poly cotton fabric
- Waterproof coating
- Internal storage
- Windows for ventilation
- Annex can be added
This amazing roof tent has all that you would want to have in such a tent. Priced at the lower end of the spectrum, this roof tent is the perfect choice for your camping experiences.
The dimensions of the tent are the 14″ H x 56″ W x 48″ L. Once opened, the dimensions change to 56″ W x 96″ L x 52″ H, allowing two people to easily fit in. Setting it up is quite easy and can be done within a few minutes.
The tent is made from poly cotton ripstop fabric and has a waterproof coating, which will keep you protected in times of rain. The thick exterior of the tent in will prevent the water from dripping inside.
The tent has windows that allow ventilation, and the interior has pouches that are used for storage. The mattress provided with the tent is comfortable and thick. For just an additional cost you can get extra storage in the form of an annex. The annex room comes with a zip, making it seem like an additional room in case you have more than 2 people traveling with you.
Customers who have purchased the tent have described it as a great investment given its price. They have stated that it meets all the basic requirements of camping.
Best Camping Tent for Trucks with Cabs
8. DAC Full – Size Truck Tent
- Note: For Toyota Tacomas later than 2005. Mid-size for 2005 Tacomas and earlier.
- Easy setup and takedown. Typically less than 3 minutes.
The honorable mention in this list – the DAC is a great tent for those camping with a truck cab or oversized vehicles. While it isn’t a standalone tent, it easily converts those with truck bed toppers into a quick and easy camping experience. We won’t go into too much detail here, but if this looks like the solution for you check it out through the link below.
Overview:
- Fits trucks/vehicles with cabs installed
- Will also fit Full size/SUVS with tailgates
- Fits on High and Flat Back Camper tops
- Fits Over Air Foil
Buying Guide: How to Find the Best Truck Bed Tent
What is a Truck Tent?
Truck tents came to be in 1990, created by Napier Enterprises, one of the largest truck bed tent manufacturers to this day. They quickly took off in popularity, adding a layer of comfort and security from the uncomfortable ground. While this article focuses on truck bed tents, roof top tents are available for all vehicles – car tents, SUV tents – you name it. A truck bed or roof tent transforms your pickup truck into an incredibly comfortable, portable, and quick sleeping experience.
Families have gravitated towards these tents in recent years due to their easy set up and lightweight/compact portable designs. They’re easy to pop-up and their extra protecting covers easily keep out unwanted bugs. The best truck tent will also keep you warmer and drier than regular tents. Being off the ground will create less condensation due to a bit of air flow beneath it. Not to mention the time you’ll save setting up and packing up. Just remember to camping safely!
How many people can sleep in a Truck Bed Tent?
Generally, a truck tent is good for 2-3 people, some even more. The total size depends on whether you opt for a truck bed tent or roof top tent, which ultimately depends on which model of truck you have. These tents can attach directly to the bed or to the roof if you have the proper roof rack. Long bed trucks or short bed trucks, there’s models for each type. Some are even made specifically for trucks with camper tops.
The setup process (after it’s installed) generally only takes a few minutes to setup and pack up, requiring only a few straps or hooks to attach on a few truck points. The best truck bed tents will have zippered windows that allow easy access into the trucks rear window, making your tent feel that much more spacious. See our roll-up truck tonneau cover reviews for great tent storage ideas.
Although these sorts of tents have been around since the early 90’s, recent years have given us a whole new load of options. Truck bed tents specifically are actually quite a new concept, meaning there’s only a few manufacturers for these sorts of tents to choose from.
Although, thankfully, the current manufacturers quality is quite good, making your search for the best truck tent actually easier. The leading maker at the moment is Napier, but a few others are making there way to the top. Kodiak tents are renowned for their room-y designs. If you’re after the best truck tent for a full size pickup bed, check the pop up tent in our truck tent reviews.
Making a Comfortable Truck Bed
Add a Bed Liner
Not every tent comes with a comfortable flooring option unfortunately, and those that do do it for water-resistance rather than comfort. If you’ve ever slept on a truck floor without bedding, you know it’s less than ideal. A camp pad or sleeping bag will be better than nothing, but you should consider a soft, flexible truck liner. The best DIY bed liner is great and affordable – making your sleep more comfortable and protect your truck bed from scraps and damages. Spray on will be better, but the best bet would be to go for the rugs or mat coverings.
Add a Mattress
You’ve picked up your F150 bed tent or your bed tent for your Tacoma, and you’re ready to camp. What’s left? Let’s get luxurious – check out the truck bed mattress options specifically for truck beds. This will take your camping experience to the next level, keeping you energized through the whole trip.
How to Install a Truck Tent
Installing a truck tent is very straightforward, but the most important step is to make sure you size whatever tent you pan on buying correctly. Nothing is worse than finding the make isn’t for your model of truck, or your truck tonneau cover is in the way. You’ll need to check if any alterations to your truck are necessary (ie. removing your toolbox) before you purchase. Generally, reading the best truck tent reviews on the product page will help you avoid any extra un-forseen situations.
The most popular and common option for trucks are the tents that install directly to the truck bed. This also happens to be the easiest option to set up. Park your truck (on level ground of course) and grab your tent. Small tents can be installed by a single person, while bigger tents may require some help. Lower the tailgate and empty the tent box, let’s get started!
1. Unpack the Tent
You’ll want to lie the tent flat and line up the front door to the tail of the truck floor. This is you’re main entrance. Commonly, the best truck tents will have 3 straps for the tailgate and 3 straps for each side. Attach those straps to the required spot to properly secure it.
2. Assemble the Poles
Assemble the tent poles and put them into their matching sleeves (these are usually color coded for an easy set up). Each manufacturer uses different colors, but the fact that they all use them is helpful none the less. Once you’ve placed them in the sleeves, slide them down into the tent pockets. If they get stuck don’t force it as you chance ripping the tent. Instead wiggle it slowly or reach to loosen the fabric.
3. Clip the Poles
Assembly almost complete! Clip the poles, this will look like its securing and adding volume to the tent. Strap it up and make any final adjustments to the poles and sleeves.
Many options of truck bed tents include extra accessories; lofts, ladders, truck awnings, rain cover. They each have their own unique instructions depending on the design, so it’s best to reference the manual if you have any of these added tent features.
These instructions are mainly directed for the best truck bed tents, it’s essentially a similar process for other models (SUV tents, Car tents, etc…). When you’re getting a roof top tent, make sure your truck is able to support at least 350 pounds. Rails and a rack are necessary too for roof top tents, but not truck bed tents. Read another article: Installing your truck toolbox
Must-Have Tent Features
Roof tents are built using material which allows them to function in extreme weather conditions. With the right pickup truck tent, liner and air mattress you’ll have a great mobile camping solution.
Space
Roof tents come with storage spaces where you can secure your essentials, or you can pick up extra space with one of the best truck bed extenders. You no longer need to run to your car whenever you need something.
Comfort
Unlike ground tents, roof tents are comfortable to sleep in. They have a built-in foam mattress that is comfortable and allows you to sleep peacefully.
Setup
Setting up a roof tent may seem like a tedious time-consuming task, but it is actually quite easy. It only takes a few minutes to set up the tent.
Conclusion
Since roof tents are above ground, this means you will remain protected from bugs and insects (even bears in some cases). Roof tents are built using material which allows them to function in extreme weather conditions. These 5 best truck bed tents will turn your vehicle into a rooftop tent sleeper ready for adventure. Leave a comment below with any questions or recommendations of your own.