10 Best SUV Tents for Road Trips And Camping Adventures

Written by Nikita Wadi Updated on Mar 07, 2024  |  405.3K
Best SUV Tents
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Those who own an SUV car model can now think of investing in the best SUV tents as they are such a fun and convenient alternative to traditional camping systems. Plus, you get a chance to save a lump sum amount on accommodation and spend time amidst nature. They are also an ideal choice for travel vloggers, road trippers, hiking enthusiasts, and all those who wish to comfortably stretch out while driving and exploring new places. 

SUV tents are a breeze to set up and promise to offer the same kind of practicality as regular, standalone tents. They also have a unique, breathable design that provides excellent ventilation along with safety and security. They wrap around the rear door of your SUV allowing you to use both the trunk and the tent for living quarters. As per our first-hand research, they are just perfect for weekend getaways as they are highly versatile and easy to use.

SUV camping tents have two broad classifications: hatch-back tents and rooftop tents. Hatch-backs are an extension of your car's existing trunk space. They can be attached to the rear ends of the vehicle, sit on the ground, and provide ‘lightning-fast’ access to your vehicle along with providing extra space for sleeping and lounging. Thus, these types of tents help you convert your SUV into a super comfortable camping vehicle while sheltering the tent inmates against heavy rains and gusty winds. On the other hand, rooftop tents elongate a car’s dimensions vertically. They are usually fitted to the roof or bed of the vehicle and are preferred by those who wish to sleep in relative safety and comfort above the vehicle keeping the internal space free.

Irrespective of whether the SUV car tent is hatch-back or rooftop, they are easy to maneuver. Hence, after carefully analyzing the best SUV tents on the market, we present a list of our top picks. Scroll down and elevate your next camping adventure with some amazing options.

10 Best SUV Tents

Whether your vehicle is a CUV, SUV, or minivan, the features of the Napier Backroadz SUV tent are something that will leave you impressed. First off, this tent has one large door and three spacious windows promoting adequate air circulation. Moreover, it is a free-standing tent that comes with two shock-corded fiberglass tent poles, making its setup seamless. In addition, the strong rainfly flaps assure utmost privacy and keep you protected during bad weather. Topping it all off, it lends you instant access to your vehicle and also offers extra sleeping space to rest comfortably.  

Key Features 

Dimensions: 10' L x 10' W x 7' H

Weight: ‎2.2 Pounds

Type of Tent: Hatchback 

Occupancy: 5

Pros
  • Adjustable sleeve straps
  • Hand washable
  • Contains a lantern holder
  • Crafted from mesh material
Cons
  • Poles tend to catch rust on poor maintenance
  • Editor’s Pick

    Hasika SUV Camping Tent

    Hasika SUV Camping Tent
  • Hasika’s SUV camping tent features an incredibly stretchable vehicle sleeve and a large awning that makes it a clear must-have. It is also renowned as one of the best tents for first-time travelers thanks to its lightweight construction that makes the setting up process a breeze. What’s more? It has an overhead lantern hook to hang a lamp and lighten up the tent as and when required. We liked that this tent comes in small and large sizes for smaller vehicles and mid-sized vans respectively, which makes it a favored choice. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions:  16.3”L x 6.6”W x 4.7”H

    Weight: 2.2 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Awning Tent (Hatchback)

    Occupancy: 5-6 sitting 

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Water-resistant
    • Durable
    • PE waterproof floor
    Cons
    • Not suitable in very windy conditions
  • Best for Long Trips

    Rightline SUV Tent Attachment

    Rightline  SUV Tent Attachment
  • What makes Rightline’s SUV tent attachment stand apart from the rest is the fact that this standalone tent comes with a water-resistant hatchback with strongly sewn seams and translucent mesh windows, assuring desirable privacy. It is also equipped with dual-gear pockets for storing small-sized belongings. Moreover, it also helps to keep the bugs where they belong — outside. It also has nylon duty straps and nylon buckles that help to disconnect and reconnect with the vehicle with ease and hence are best suited for people going on long road trips. What’s impressive? The tent has glow-in-the-dark zippers for better vision and a lantern hook too. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: ‎8' L x 8' W x 7.2' H

    Weight: 21 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback

    Occupancy: 6

    Pros
    • Suitable for all weather conditions
    • Roomy with high ceiling
    • Durable fasteners
    • Easy to set up
    • Easy to disconnect
    Cons
    • Needs to be staked in windy conditions
  • Most Minimal Setup Time

    North East Harbor SUV Camping Tent

    North East Harbor SUV Camping Tent
  • A favorite among hikers and travel vloggers is this SUV camping tent introduced by North East Harbor. It provides hassle-free access to your vehicle and provides ample space for sleeping and storage. Moreover, this multi-purpose tent connects seamlessly to crossover wagons, jeeps, pickup trucks, and minivans without complex tugging and pulling. To add on, it comes with sturdy break-proof fiber poles for setting up the tent and a raised bathtub floor to provide immunity against leaks. Not to forget, its dual awning for extra protection against environmental and mechanical stressors makes this tent a big hit!

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: ‎‎‎8' L x 8' W x 7.2' H

    Weight: ‎19 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback

    Occupancy: 6

    Pros
    • Spacious interiors
    • Waterproof external covering
    • Easy to detach
    • Budget-friendly
    Cons
    • Not very durable
  • Most Long-Lasting Option

    Napier Sportz SUV Tent

    Napier Sportz SUV Tent
  • The Napier Sportz SUV hatch tent has managed to gain great popularity for a number of reasons. While some users love the simple pole design with a 15-minute hassle-free setup, others dig the size of the vehicle sleeve that is designed to fit CUVs, SUVs, and minivans effortlessly. What makes it the real deal is the excellent weather protection offered by its zippered storm flaps near the windows and the optional awning that provides additional shade. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: ‎‎10' L x 10' W x 7.25' H

    Weight: ‎48.1 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 6 to 7

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Adjustable sleeve
    • Strongly sewn seams
    • Has awning over tent entrance to shield rain and sun
    Cons
    • Hard to set up alone
  • Most Tear-Proof Option

    JOYTUTUS SUV Tent for Camping

    JOYTUTUS SUV Tent for Camping
  • Due to its 150D polyester oxford built material that comes with PU2000 water-proof coating and a flexible, sturdy, and lightweight texture, the Joytutus SUV Camping Tent is best suited for all seasons. It provides much-needed protection against rainwater infiltration. In addition, it has a connective inner space and two mesh bags that help to collect sundries and provide easy accessibility to your vehicle. Furthermore, it comes with windproof ropes and also has a window mesh that prevents debris and bugs from getting into the tent. Last but not least, it has easy-to-fix car straps that can be tethered to the roof rack and the car wheels to ensure added protection. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: ‎‎7.7' L x 7.7' W x 6.9' H

    Weight: ‎‎‎‎15.49 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 6 to 7

    Pros
    • Tear-proof
    • Wind resistant
    • Light-weight
    • Facilitates proper ventilation
    Cons
    • Not very durable
    • May be tough to set up solo
  • Most Lightweight Option

    Aomxay SUV Tent for Camping

    Aomxay SUV Tent for Camping
  • Aomxay’s SUV camping tent is loved for its versatile design. It easily adheres to the ends of your vehicle and provides ample camping space. Moreover, it is built with durable and sturdy materials that assure protection against environmental and mechanical stressors. What’s more? It comes with a robust hook design which makes it possible to hang onto the vehicle's axle. We also found that users love the double-sided zipper design that allows an individual to open it without any complex tugging or pulling. To sum everything up, it can be used as a free-standing tent and an extension to your SUV and is hence suited for families as well as solo travelers. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: 6' L x 6.5' W x 6.5' H

    Weight: ‎‎5 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 6 to 7

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Easy to dry
    • Breakproof zippers
    Cons
    • Rainfly may not be able to withstand extremely stormy weather
  • Best Bug-resistant option

    TIMBER RIDGE 5-Person SUV Tent

    TIMBER RIDGE 5-Person SUV Tent
  • Enjoy the starry night with your friends and family with Timber Ridge’s SUV tent. It is a spacious tent that enables you to stand upright without the discomfort of hitting your head on the roof. We love that this tent comes with an extra movie screen to enjoy a movie experience out in the wild. Moreover, it is constructed with polyester taffeta cloth which is a potent shield against bad weather conditions. Lastly, it comes with a top mesh skylight that enables the required sunlight to enter without overheating the interiors of the tent. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: 10' L x 8' W x 7.1' H 

    Weight:‎ ‎‎‎‎‎28 pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 5

    Pros
    • Ample space for storage
    Cons
    • Poles for rainfly are slightly long
  • Best Portable Option

    WASAGUN SUV Tent

    WASAGUN SUV Tent
  • Camping is now easily possible with Wasagun’s SUV hatchback tent as it has a detachable shelter that provides shade for up to 65 square feet. It is painted with silver fabric that does not allow strong sunlight to hamper the quality of the tent. Furthermore, it comes with strong and highly flexible poles, making it easy to assemble and install. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: ‎‎8.2' L x 8.2' W x 6.5' H

    Weight:‎ ‎‎‎‎‎‎30.8 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 6-8

    Pros
    • Easy to set up
    • Well-ventilated
    • Ample storage space
    • Strong zippers
    • Offers generous spacing
    Cons
    • May slightly leak during heavy rains
    • Height could be more
  • Best for Minivans

    Camp Toad Universal SUV Tent

    Camp Toad Universal SUV Tent
  • The sturdy rainfly of Camp Toad’s SUV tent allows you to enjoy the fresh smell of wet mud without getting soaked in the rain. The tent also comes with expandable poles to provide robust protection and contains break and split-proof zippers that glide seamlessly without any glitches. What’s the best part? It has magnets around the perimeter to ensure added protection against bugs and flea invasions. 

    Key Features 

    Dimensions: 6.5' L x 6' W x 7' H

    Weight:‎ ‎‎‎‎‎‎6 Pounds

    Type of Tent: Hatchback 

    Occupancy: 4

    Pros
    • Easy to set up
    • Bug-proof mesh
    • Magnets included
    • Retains heat on colder nights
    • Abrasion resistant fabric
    • Also ideal for minivans
    Cons
    • It may not hold well against strong winds

    For all enthusiastic travel junkies, choosing the best SUV tent out of all the tent options is as tricky as driving through narrow and steep roads. To make it simpler, we have got you covered with a detailed buying guide you can refer to while shopping for your SUV extension.

    How to Choose the Best SUV Tent for Your Road Trips?

    Here are a few factors that you can consider while shopping for an SUV tent for your next road trip or camping plans: 

    1. Material and Design: Choose tents that are made up of durable and sturdy materials like polyurethane to provide resistance against water, sunshine, and rain. Moreover, the material should also be devoid of toxins like PFCs and PFAs to make it safe for kids, pets, and senior citizens.

    2. Dimensions of the Tent: It is common for SUV tents to come with adjustable sleeves, you should always choose one that adheres to the dimensions of your vehicle. Always look for SUV tents that have roomy interiors. Taller individuals also need to ensure that the tent is high enough to stand upright without hitting the roof. It should also provide ample shade and space for people in large groups.

    3. Additional Accessories for Easy Installation: You may want to get an SUV tent that comes with accessories such as poles, an additional adjustable cover to provide added shade, and a carry bag to make it easy to store and move the product.

    4. Seasonality: The SUV tent needs to be built of water, hail, and weather-resistant material to make it a compatible choice across all seasons. The tent should be able to withstand strong downpours, snowfall, and gusty winds. 

    The most common benefits of using SUV tents include flexibility of travel and cost-effectiveness. There are some more. Read on.

    Benefits of SUV Tents

    Here are a few benefits of using SUV camping tents for your road trips: 

    1. Easy Access to Vehicle Interiors: SUV tents provide easy access to car interiors and thus eliminate the need for additional movement, thereby reducing discomfort.

    2. Protection Against Pests: SUV tents are generally made up of UV-resistant polyurethane and mesh fabric that besides keeping sunlight at bay, also helps prevent bug and flea invasion.

    3. Offers Additional Space: Most SUV tents offer extra storage space and shade for people to relax, chill, and play around. The extra space also makes it easy to install chairs and benches in its vicinity or under its shade. 

    Setting up an SUV tent may seem like an outdoor exercise but here are a few steps that make its setup easy without the need for viewing YouTube tutorials.

    Tips for SUV Tent And Car Camping

    1. Carry enough water, essentials, eatables, and necessities for a comfortable camping experience. 

    2. Keep your campsite minimal and use your car as a staging area — bring only what is necessary to allow enough space for people to rest. 

    3. Choose a cool dry spot. 

    4. Dispose of waste responsibly without tarnishing or hampering the place so that it does not hamper the wildlife and the flora and fauna around.

    Conclusion

    The ease of maneuvering, extra shelter space, and added protection to an individual's privacy make the best SUV tents a traveler's buddy. After considering several factors like dimensions, height, weight, space, adjustability, material, and durability, we have curated a list of the best SUV tents that are easy to set up, wrap, and store. We love how the Napier Backroadz SUV Tent is equipped with two shock-corded fiberglass tent poles making its setup seamless process. Likewise, the Napier Sportz SUV Tent has zippered storm flaps and excellent weather protection, making it a camping must-have.

    FAQ's

    What makes a good SUV tent?
    A good SUV tent should be weather and water-resistant along with being immune to scratches, abrasion, and tears so that it does not lose its original shape and structure. Moreover, it should come along with additional equipment like flexible poles, rain-flies, and extended awnings to protect against adverse weather conditions.
    Which SUV tent is the most comfortable?
    A few options for the most comfortable SUV tents are the Napier Backroadz SUV Tent, Hasika SUV Camping Tent, and Rightline SUV Tent Attachment.
    Are SUV tents good for keeping bugs out?
    Most SUV tents are useful in keeping out flies and bugs as they come with wire mesh coverings that facilitate ventilation but help keep pests at bay.
    What are the advantages of using an SUV tent for camping?
    A few advantages of using an SUV hatch tent are additional space for camping, added protection against pests and environmental stressors, easy access to vehicle interiors, and cost-effectiveness.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Nikita, our in-house travel vlogger believes that one can travel all over the world without spending a fortune on hotels, inns, and taverns. Hence, whenever she goes on road trips she prefers opting for the best SUV tents that are easy to assemble, set up, and carry. When asked for her recommendations of the best SUV tents she recommended the above-mentioned top picks only after carefully analyzing their features. Personally, she loves Hasika SUV Camping Tent which is light in weight, durable, water-resistant, and primarily easy to set up. You can snatch a glimpse of the rest of her top picks and get yourself one without any second thoughts!

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health and fitness on board to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO

    Nikita’s love for food and travel has taken her to places of history that speak volumes about cultural richness More