Do you need a roof rack for a rooftop tent?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “Do you need a roof rack for a rooftop tent?” We will discuss the tips to select the right roof rack. We will also talk about the best roof racks for rooftop tents. Additionally, we will discuss the probability of mounting a rooftop tent without a roof rack.
Do you need a roof rack for a rooftop tent?
Yes, you need a roof rack for a rooftop tent. A roof rack acts as a platform to provide the required support for a rooftop tent. Without a roof rack, it is hard to hold the rooftop tent in place. Most rooftop tents require a sturdy roof rack to hold the tent in place. A roof rack will also help to prevent your tent from falling off the vehicle.
There are various types of roof racks for rooftop tents. Depending on the type of rooftop tent, you will need to opt for the right roof rack. There are hard-shell and soft-shell rooftop tents. Despite the type, you are required to have a roof rack to keep your tent stable, especially since you are planning on camping.
Tips to select the right roof rack
Roof racks come in different shapes and sizes and you will need to get the right rack to match your rooftop tent. There are square bards and oval-shaped roof racks and there are mounting plates to get these bars up. Most of the mounting plates arrive along with the roof rack itself so they are a perfect match.
Get your measurements right
- The first step is to get the measurements right before selecting a roof rack. You will need to have the right measurements of your vehicle’s roof. Ensure to get the length and width measurements.
- Next, you will need to get the measurements of the rooftop tent. Be sure to measure the base of the tent to get the width and height. Having the right measurements will help you get the perfect rack to match your requirements.
Check the weight ratings
- The roof rack will need to bear a minimum weight and it is important to check the weight ratings. A rooftop tent can easily weigh up to 60 kilograms are more. Hence, you should get a roof rack that has a weight capacity of 75 to 100 kilograms to be on the safe side.
- Note that these are the dynamic weights of the vehicle and are calculated when the vehicle is in transit. The static weight will vary as roof racks have a higher static rate than the dynamic rate.
Get racks with gaps
- This is an important point to consider when selecting a roof rack. Be sure to get racks that have a gap between the rack and the roof.
- You will need to tighten or loosen the bolts and you should have a reasonable amount of space to slip your hand through.
Check the height from the ground
- Another crucial part is to check the height from the ground to the top of the roof rack. This should be in line within the reach of the rooftop ten ladders.
- Ladders are usually around 2 to 2.2 m and your racks should remain the same for easy access.
With the about tips, you should be able to get ahold of the right roof rack for your rooftop tent. The best way is to check with an expert or check with the rooftop brand that you are planning to purchase. An expert should be able to guide you with the right model of the roof rack based on your vehicle and your rooftop tent.
Best roof racks for rooftop tents
All roof racks are different and some have different weight ratings There are various sizes, materials, and specifications. However, these are some of the best roof racks that are available in the market for rooftop tents.
Thule TracRac SR System
- Thule is known for its best-in-class roof racks that are built to suit most vehicles. These roof racks arrive in a reasonable price range and they are constructed with top-quality materials.
- The TracRac SR system from Thule is easy to install and there is no need to drill on the truck. These are adjustable racks that are easy to dismantle and they can hold up to 1250 pounds with ease.
- You can also carry all your gear when you are not using the tent to camp. Just be sure to consider the weight of the tent and consider the extra weight.
Rhino rack pioneer SX platform
- This particular roof rack has a maximum weight limit of 175 pounds. This is a perfect platform to hold up your rooftop tent and it also has an easy installation process.
- This roof rack is built with lightweight reinforced nylon and aluminum. Hence, there is no chance of rust or corrosion forming.
- The Rhino rack pioneers have strong slats and it is easy to tie down your gear with its convenient design. This rack is also easy to remove and it is designed to minimize wind drag while driving.
Yakima Skyline system
- The Yakima Skyline system is one of the most affordable roof racks that are available. Despite the price, these roof racks are built with great quality. They have fixed points or tracks on the roof and it has vehicle-specific landing pads.
- One of the other advantages is that there are several crossbar options and it is easy to install with the provided tools.
- The maximum load rating for this roof rack is 165 pounds and it is perfect for those soft-shell rooftop tents. It also has a system that will allow you to adjust the pitch of the bars by 12 degrees.
Front runner outfitters Slimline II roof rack
- The front runner is one of those well-known brands when it comes to roof racks. various roof racks are available from a Front runner but these racks will require drilling to secure the foot rails.
- One of the perks of Front runner is that it arrives with a wind deflector. It is easy to mound and provides enough clearance between the roof and the rack.
- There are opening on the sides for the storage of gear. These roof racks also arrive with a warranty and they have a capacity of 660 pounds.
Mounting a rooftop tent without a roof rack
No doubt it is possible to mount a rooftop tent without a roof rack, but it is not recommended. You will need a few materials to get started with this process. These are a few materials that are rare and required to secure a rooftop tent without a roof rack.
- Ladder and ladder brackets
- Bolts, nuts, and washers
- Steel mounting plates
- Channel slides
- Wrench.
Here are a few steps to mount a rooftop tent without a roof rack.
- Depending on your car roof, you will be required to have mounting racks that go perpendicular to the mounting channels.
- You will need to attach mounting tracks and ensure that they are aligned with the holes in the bottom of the tent base. You will then need to use nuts and bolts to secure the tent base.
- You will need to move the tent onto the roof of the vehicle by adding the channel sliders and steel mounting plate to the side of the tent. You will need to use a wrench and blots to secure it in place.
- While it is still possible to mount a rooftop tent without a roof rack, it is advised not to do so. The process can be hard and it might not be as secure as a roof rack. On the other hand, it is going to take a lot of time and you will be required to work with caution. Purchasing a roof rack will always be the better option.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “Do you need a roof rack for a rooftop tent?” We have discussed the tips to select the right roof rack. We have also talked about the best roof racks for rooftop tents. Additionally, we have discussed the probability of mounting a rooftop tent without a roof rack.
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