Are you still worried about how to build a rooftop tent? Or are you still thinking about how to put this small bolt on the right track? Today, Kevin, our veteran player of rooftop tents, will share the four steps of building a rooftop tent and teach you how to successfully build and use it. Come and learn with me!
1. Necessary preparations before installation
(Welcome to Kevin's knowledge-sharing conference on the building. You finally clicked on this blog. It should be noted that I currently own a Naturnest Polaris 2 tent, so Polaris 2 is used as an example when sharing the building of a rooftop tent below.
Before buying a rooftop tent, most people usually ask if the tent will fit their car model.Due to the wide variety of models and styles on the market, the answer may not be satisfactory. Therefore, in this section, we first need to confirm whether the vehicle you currently own is suitable for building a roof tent. Here I share two key points.
(I) Whether the roof needs to be installed with a crossbar/luggage rack
Please note that it is essential to emphasize that the rooftop tent must be installed on the crossbar. At this point you might ask, what kind of crossbars are available on the market?
There are two options here:
1. Original roof crossbars
The original roof crossbars are designed and adapted by the car brand, which can perfectly match the curvature of the roof, and the load-bearing data is also clear, but it is necessary to confirm whether the crossbars have reserved installation holes (some models need to cut the roof rubber strips)
2. Universal crossbars
For those bare roofs without original crossbars, you need to consider buying a pair of crossbars to install on the roof to install the roof tent. What needs to be noted here is to consider the dynamic load-bearing capacity of the roof (DWC - the actual weight that the luggage rack can bear when the vehicle is driving).
Load-bearing information:
Dynamic load-bearing ≥ tent weight
For example, I bought a Polaris2, whose tent weight is 185lbs, and my weight is 167lbs, so I need to ensure that the load-bearing capacity of the pair of crossbars on my roof is greater than 352lbs (185lbs + 167lbs). Crossbars with such load-bearing capacity can carry the roof tent.
(II) Which crossbar material should be selected?
1. Aluminum alloy is preferred (90% of players' choice)
After research, it was found that aluminum has the best strength and weight ratio, and is a good choice for building roof tents. It can not only effectively reduce roof wind noise (no matter whether it is driving at high or low speed, it can effectively reduce noise by more than 26%). In addition, the aluminum structure is strong and durable, and has a long service life, making it the choice of many outdoor camping.
The Polaris 2 I currently use has an all-aluminum alloy frame, and the connection parts are reinforced with aluminum corners. The overall compressive strength is increased by 30%, and it is stable and does not deform even in rugged mountains. At the same time, the aluminum oxide layer has its anti-corrosion, which increases wear resistance and corrosion resistance, prolongs the service life, and does not require additional maintenance in seaside/high humidity areas.
2. Steel crossbar (temporary use only)
If you can't find aluminum alloy materials, you can consider using steel crossbars, but please note that steel materials have the risk of rust, especially in rainy and snowy areas, where welds are prone to rust. At the same time, its resonance sound is obvious, and it is easy to produce low-frequency roaring sounds when the speed exceeds 100km/h. It can be used temporarily but is not recommended overall.
3. Carbon fiber (new material)
The carbon fiber material is light in weight, high in strength, resistant to high temperature and corrosion, and is very suitable for modified hard-core off-road vehicles, but the price is high and maintenance is difficult, but its material superiority has gradually become one of people's choices.
2. Key steps in installation
After understanding the above information, you are halfway to successfully building a rooftop tent. At this time, when you see the rooftop tent at the door of your home, are you ready to go? Then continue to read this chapter. This chapter is very important. Whether you can successfully build a rooftop tent depends on this.
(I) Component inspection before installing the rooftop tent:
Including:
1. Number of ladders/poles
2. Integrity of tarpaulin
3. Are the locks/hinges complete
4. Matching tool kit (special wrenches/bolts and screws, etc.)
For example, the Naturnest Polaris 2 I currently own includes the following:
Ladder (foldable ladder, extended to 92.52in (2.3m), maximum load-bearing capacity of 331lbs)
Number of poles (0, which means I don’t need additional poles to prop up my tent)
The integrity of tarpaulin (It must be said here that Naturnest Polaris 2 uses a double-layer insulation structure and condensation-proof design fabric. The inner tent uses 280G polyester plaid fabric and the outer cover uses 310G polyester plaid fabric, which effectively reduces the damp and cold feeling at night and condensation on the inner wall, so you can sleep safely and warmly even in wet or cold seasons.)
The locks/hinges (When I bought it, the staff of Naturnest told me that Polaris 2 The upper and lower covers of the tent use a total of eight die-cast aluminum corners. The process is complicated and costly, but this design will keep the entire tent strong in structure when it is hit by external forces, and compared with plastic corner tents, it will not easily reduce the sealing and cause water to enter the tent, thus extending the service life of the tent. )
Supporting tool kit (special wrenches/bolts and screws, etc.) (Naturnest's accessories are very easy to use, especially its torque wrench. I even bought a new set after losing it during a trip.)
When you check that all these accessories are present, we can start the next key step.
(II) Basic steps for installing a rooftop tent
1. Crossbar spacing requirements
It should be noted that most tents require a spacing of 30-45 inches (please refer to the instructions for details). Too wide or too narrow a spacing will cause the rooftop tent to be unstable and pose a safety hazard (please note that some hardshell tents need to be less than 30 inches to prevent the middle from hanging in the air, please follow the instructions).
2.Carrying the rooftop tent
Considering that the rooftop tent is heavy and needs to be carried to the roof, it is recommended that 2 to 3 people work together for the first time to reduce the pressure on the knees of the movers, and it is best to operate in a spacious garage or a place with sufficient net width and height to facilitate lifting the tent. You can first carry the rooftop tent to knee height, place it on a certain force-bearing object, and then move it horizontally to the roof according to the direction of the rooftop tent you want to install.
3. Install the bottom track of the rooftop tent
At this point, your rooftop tent is already on the roof. Now you need to fix it to the roof crossbar with the help of the manual. Taking the Polaris2 I own as an example, generally speaking, the bottom plate of most rooftop tents (the base frame of the hard shell or folding tent) has pre-installed fixing points or needs to be installed with a dedicated fixing bracket/slide rail.
For example, the bottom of Polaris2 has a mounting rail. You only need to pass two long bolts through the two holes on a fixed clamp plate, and then pass one of the long bolts through a hole on the other fixed clamp plate, similar to a semi-open device, and then insert the fixed clamp plate that passes through the two long bolts into the bottom rail reserved in advance on the Polaris2 roof tent to form a U-shaped mounting accessory (make sure the concave surface faces the crossbar to increase the fit and friction), and then adjust it to the appropriate position at the bottom of the roof tent, and then pass the previously reserved long bolts through the fixed clamp plate, so that it can clamp the crossbar front and back so that the roof tent and the crossbar can be completely fixed, and then use nuts for preliminary fixation (no need to clamp).
Repeat this step four times in total, so that the four corners of the roof tent are fixed. Then use a torque wrench to fix the tent at a fixed point.
3. Safety points when using
(Let’s take the Polaris2 I bought as an example.)
(I). Open the tent:
You need to park the car on a flat and stable ground first and make sure there are no obstacles such as branches and wires above the roof.
Step 1: Unlock the safety buckles/straps around the tent (usually lever-type buckles or latches).
Step 2: Stand on the side of the car, lift the outer shell, hold the top of the tent's outer shell with both hands and push it up with force.
Step 3: Unfold the inner tent. When the outer shell rises to a certain height, the gas spring rod will automatically support it. Extend the folded inner tent out of the outer shell until it is fully unfolded.
Step 4: Fix the ladder. The ladder is usually packed separately in a ladder bag, or placed inside the tent with the tent block. We need to hang the ladder on one side of the tent (the side of the window you need to enter), and then adjust the length of the ladder to make it firmly touch the ground.
Step 5: Use the ladder to enter the tent, open the folded metal bracket to both sides until you hear a "click" locking sound (the X-shaped bracket needs to be cross-opened), and ensure that the roof tent is fixed and complete.
Step 6: Open the ventilation mesh layer and waterproof cover according to personal needs, check whether the tent is complete, and then you can lie in the tent and enjoy the fun of the outdoors.
(II). Close the tent
Closing and storing the rooftop tent requires safe and orderly steps to ensure that the tent is clean and dry, avoid damage, and effectively extend its service life.
Step 1: Remove all sleeping bags, mats, and debris to ensure that there are no leftover items inside (especially in the piles). It should be noted here that the design of the Naturnest Polaris2 tent allows sheets and thin blankets or sleeping bags to be placed inside the tent.
Step 2: Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove internal sand, dust, and leaves; wipe the stains on the outside with a damp cloth (avoid strong water flushing to prevent water seepage).
Step 3: Retract the support rod/hydraulic rod and other supports, and slowly close the top cover (avoid clamping the tent cloth).
Step 4: Leave the rooftop tent and put the ladder into the ladder belt (if it is a telescopic ladder connected to the tent, push it back into the tent).
Step 5: Pull the leverage belt at the roof cover hard to make the gas spring work to close the tent.
Step 6: Fold the excess exposed tent fabric inside the tent, and finally lock the closure buckle or secure it with a strap.
4. Some suggestions for tent novices
(I).First installation reminder
Please watch the brand's instructional video before the first operation (usually included in the manual on the official website or in the tent).
(II). Storage Tips
Note: Humid storage is the primary cause of tent damage!
1. Storage environment selection
Ideal environment: Dry and cool place (such as garage, storage room)
Please avoid:
High-temperature exposure (accelerates material aging)
Damp basement (breeds mold)
Heavy objects (causing deformation)
2. Tent placement
Hardshell tent: lay flat with the top cover facing up;
Softshell tent: place upright (such as against the wall) to reduce the pressure on the frame.
3. Dust and insect prevention measures
Recommendation: Cover with a breathable dust cover (do not seal with plastic cloth), and build in moisture-proof agents/mothballs to prevent insects.
(III). Storage tips for preventing mildew spots
1. Keep the tent ventilated!
The most effective way to prevent condensation is to keep your tent ventilated and reduce humidity inside the tent by promoting good airflow. Check your tent for low and high vents and open them to allow moist air to escape. If weather permits, keep the upper and lower parts of the tent door open and the mesh section fully zipped up. Also, make sure the vents at the back of the tent are fully open if appropriate. Make sure the vents are not blocked by bags or sleeping bags.
2. Store wet items outside
Towels, boots, waterproof clothing, swimsuits, wet fishing gear... Keep these wet items outside the tent. Use boot bags to hold these items or use ropes to hang other wet items to help them dry.
3. Do not use heaters
Heating the air in the tent will increase the moisture in the air because warm air can hold more moisture, and the hotter the tent is, the more moisture is released into the tent through evaporation and perspiration. Instead of heating the tent, wear appropriate clothing and sleeping bags to keep warm.
4. Open windows
Opening windows and/or using a small fan can provide the necessary airflow to help warm, humid air avoid settling on the tent fabric.
5. Being near water adds moisture to the air.
Rivers and lakes increase humidity. Setting up your tent away from water can help reduce condensation.
6. Carry a spare towel
Condensation is unavoidable in some weather conditions. Follow the steps above to reduce condensation and keep a spare towel handy for wiping.
This is the end of my sharing. I hope you can also enjoy the charm of the outdoors with your roof tent!
Now you have the skills to set up your tent. Are you confident and ready to give it a try? If you encounter new questions during the set-up process or would like to learn more about the details in this article, please leave a message to Naturnest. Naturnest hopes that this article provides some help for your installation, that will be my greatest gain.
How to build a rooftop tent? Teach you in five minutes (experience sharing by veteran players) ——Sharing from Kevin of Naturnest
Are you still worried about how to build a rooftop tent? Or are you still thinking about how to put this small bolt on the right track? Today, Kevin, our veteran player of rooftop tents, will share the four steps of building a rooftop tent and teach you how to successfully build and use it. Come and learn with me!
1. Necessary preparations before installation
(Welcome to Kevin's knowledge-sharing conference on the building. You finally clicked on this blog. It should be noted that I currently own a Naturnest Polaris 2 tent, so Polaris 2 is used as an example when sharing the building of a rooftop tent below.
Before buying a rooftop tent, most people usually ask if the tent will fit their car model.Due to the wide variety of models and styles on the market, the answer may not be satisfactory. Therefore, in this section, we first need to confirm whether the vehicle you currently own is suitable for building a roof tent. Here I share two key points.
(I) Whether the roof needs to be installed with a crossbar/luggage rack
Please note that it is essential to emphasize that the rooftop tent must be installed on the crossbar. At this point you might ask, what kind of crossbars are available on the market?
There are two options here:
1. Original roof crossbars
The original roof crossbars are designed and adapted by the car brand, which can perfectly match the curvature of the roof, and the load-bearing data is also clear, but it is necessary to confirm whether the crossbars have reserved installation holes (some models need to cut the roof rubber strips)
2. Universal crossbars
For those bare roofs without original crossbars, you need to consider buying a pair of crossbars to install on the roof to install the roof tent. What needs to be noted here is to consider the dynamic load-bearing capacity of the roof (DWC - the actual weight that the luggage rack can bear when the vehicle is driving).
Load-bearing information:
Dynamic load-bearing ≥ tent weight
For example, I bought a Polaris2, whose tent weight is 185lbs, and my weight is 167lbs, so I need to ensure that the load-bearing capacity of the pair of crossbars on my roof is greater than 352lbs (185lbs + 167lbs). Crossbars with such load-bearing capacity can carry the roof tent.
(II) Which crossbar material should be selected?
1. Aluminum alloy is preferred (90% of players' choice)
After research, it was found that aluminum has the best strength and weight ratio, and is a good choice for building roof tents. It can not only effectively reduce roof wind noise (no matter whether it is driving at high or low speed, it can effectively reduce noise by more than 26%). In addition, the aluminum structure is strong and durable, and has a long service life, making it the choice of many outdoor camping.
The Polaris 2 I currently use has an all-aluminum alloy frame, and the connection parts are reinforced with aluminum corners. The overall compressive strength is increased by 30%, and it is stable and does not deform even in rugged mountains. At the same time, the aluminum oxide layer has its anti-corrosion, which increases wear resistance and corrosion resistance, prolongs the service life, and does not require additional maintenance in seaside/high humidity areas.
2. Steel crossbar (temporary use only)
If you can't find aluminum alloy materials, you can consider using steel crossbars, but please note that steel materials have the risk of rust, especially in rainy and snowy areas, where welds are prone to rust. At the same time, its resonance sound is obvious, and it is easy to produce low-frequency roaring sounds when the speed exceeds 100km/h. It can be used temporarily but is not recommended overall.
3. Carbon fiber (new material)
The carbon fiber material is light in weight, high in strength, resistant to high temperature and corrosion, and is very suitable for modified hard-core off-road vehicles, but the price is high and maintenance is difficult, but its material superiority has gradually become one of people's choices.
2. Key steps in installation
After understanding the above information, you are halfway to successfully building a rooftop tent. At this time, when you see the rooftop tent at the door of your home, are you ready to go? Then continue to read this chapter. This chapter is very important. Whether you can successfully build a rooftop tent depends on this.
(I) Component inspection before installing the rooftop tent:
Including:
1. Number of ladders/poles
2. Integrity of tarpaulin
3. Are the locks/hinges complete
4. Matching tool kit (special wrenches/bolts and screws, etc.)
For example, the Naturnest Polaris 2 I currently own includes the following:
Ladder (foldable ladder, extended to 92.52in (2.3m), maximum load-bearing capacity of 331lbs)
Number of poles (0, which means I don’t need additional poles to prop up my tent)
The integrity of tarpaulin (It must be said here that Naturnest Polaris 2 uses a double-layer insulation structure and condensation-proof design fabric. The inner tent uses 280G polyester plaid fabric and the outer cover uses 310G polyester plaid fabric, which effectively reduces the damp and cold feeling at night and condensation on the inner wall, so you can sleep safely and warmly even in wet or cold seasons.)
The locks/hinges (When I bought it, the staff of Naturnest told me that Polaris 2 The upper and lower covers of the tent use a total of eight die-cast aluminum corners. The process is complicated and costly, but this design will keep the entire tent strong in structure when it is hit by external forces, and compared with plastic corner tents, it will not easily reduce the sealing and cause water to enter the tent, thus extending the service life of the tent. )
Supporting tool kit (special wrenches/bolts and screws, etc.) (Naturnest's accessories are very easy to use, especially its torque wrench. I even bought a new set after losing it during a trip.)
When you check that all these accessories are present, we can start the next key step.
(II) Basic steps for installing a rooftop tent
1. Crossbar spacing requirements
It should be noted that most tents require a spacing of 30-45 inches (please refer to the instructions for details). Too wide or too narrow a spacing will cause the rooftop tent to be unstable and pose a safety hazard (please note that some hardshell tents need to be less than 30 inches to prevent the middle from hanging in the air, please follow the instructions).
2.Carrying the rooftop tent
Considering that the rooftop tent is heavy and needs to be carried to the roof, it is recommended that 2 to 3 people work together for the first time to reduce the pressure on the knees of the movers, and it is best to operate in a spacious garage or a place with sufficient net width and height to facilitate lifting the tent. You can first carry the rooftop tent to knee height, place it on a certain force-bearing object, and then move it horizontally to the roof according to the direction of the rooftop tent you want to install.
3. Install the bottom track of the rooftop tent
At this point, your rooftop tent is already on the roof. Now you need to fix it to the roof crossbar with the help of the manual. Taking the Polaris2 I own as an example, generally speaking, the bottom plate of most rooftop tents (the base frame of the hard shell or folding tent) has pre-installed fixing points or needs to be installed with a dedicated fixing bracket/slide rail.
For example, the bottom of Polaris2 has a mounting rail. You only need to pass two long bolts through the two holes on a fixed clamp plate, and then pass one of the long bolts through a hole on the other fixed clamp plate, similar to a semi-open device, and then insert the fixed clamp plate that passes through the two long bolts into the bottom rail reserved in advance on the Polaris2 roof tent to form a U-shaped mounting accessory (make sure the concave surface faces the crossbar to increase the fit and friction), and then adjust it to the appropriate position at the bottom of the roof tent, and then pass the previously reserved long bolts through the fixed clamp plate, so that it can clamp the crossbar front and back so that the roof tent and the crossbar can be completely fixed, and then use nuts for preliminary fixation (no need to clamp).
Repeat this step four times in total, so that the four corners of the roof tent are fixed. Then use a torque wrench to fix the tent at a fixed point.
3. Safety points when using
(Let’s take the Polaris2 I bought as an example.)
(I). Open the tent:
You need to park the car on a flat and stable ground first and make sure there are no obstacles such as branches and wires above the roof.
Step 1: Unlock the safety buckles/straps around the tent (usually lever-type buckles or latches).
Step 2: Stand on the side of the car, lift the outer shell, hold the top of the tent's outer shell with both hands and push it up with force.
Step 3: Unfold the inner tent. When the outer shell rises to a certain height, the gas spring rod will automatically support it. Extend the folded inner tent out of the outer shell until it is fully unfolded.
Step 4: Fix the ladder. The ladder is usually packed separately in a ladder bag, or placed inside the tent with the tent block. We need to hang the ladder on one side of the tent (the side of the window you need to enter), and then adjust the length of the ladder to make it firmly touch the ground.
Step 5: Use the ladder to enter the tent, open the folded metal bracket to both sides until you hear a "click" locking sound (the X-shaped bracket needs to be cross-opened), and ensure that the roof tent is fixed and complete.
Step 6: Open the ventilation mesh layer and waterproof cover according to personal needs, check whether the tent is complete, and then you can lie in the tent and enjoy the fun of the outdoors.
(II). Close the tent
Closing and storing the rooftop tent requires safe and orderly steps to ensure that the tent is clean and dry, avoid damage, and effectively extend its service life.
Step 1: Remove all sleeping bags, mats, and debris to ensure that there are no leftover items inside (especially in the piles). It should be noted here that the design of the Naturnest Polaris2 tent allows sheets and thin blankets or sleeping bags to be placed inside the tent.
Step 2: Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove internal sand, dust, and leaves; wipe the stains on the outside with a damp cloth (avoid strong water flushing to prevent water seepage).
Step 3: Retract the support rod/hydraulic rod and other supports, and slowly close the top cover (avoid clamping the tent cloth).
Step 4: Leave the rooftop tent and put the ladder into the ladder belt (if it is a telescopic ladder connected to the tent, push it back into the tent).
Step 5: Pull the leverage belt at the roof cover hard to make the gas spring work to close the tent.
Step 6: Fold the excess exposed tent fabric inside the tent, and finally lock the closure buckle or secure it with a strap.
4. Some suggestions for tent novices
(I).First installation reminder
Please watch the brand's instructional video before the first operation (usually included in the manual on the official website or in the tent).
(II). Storage Tips
Note: Humid storage is the primary cause of tent damage!
1. Storage environment selection
Ideal environment: Dry and cool place (such as garage, storage room)
Please avoid:
High-temperature exposure (accelerates material aging)
Damp basement (breeds mold)
Heavy objects (causing deformation)
2. Tent placement
Hardshell tent: lay flat with the top cover facing up;
Softshell tent: place upright (such as against the wall) to reduce the pressure on the frame.
3. Dust and insect prevention measures
Recommendation: Cover with a breathable dust cover (do not seal with plastic cloth), and build in moisture-proof agents/mothballs to prevent insects.
(III). Storage tips for preventing mildew spots
1. Keep the tent ventilated!
The most effective way to prevent condensation is to keep your tent ventilated and reduce humidity inside the tent by promoting good airflow. Check your tent for low and high vents and open them to allow moist air to escape. If weather permits, keep the upper and lower parts of the tent door open and the mesh section fully zipped up. Also, make sure the vents at the back of the tent are fully open if appropriate. Make sure the vents are not blocked by bags or sleeping bags.
2. Store wet items outside
Towels, boots, waterproof clothing, swimsuits, wet fishing gear... Keep these wet items outside the tent. Use boot bags to hold these items or use ropes to hang other wet items to help them dry.
3. Do not use heaters
Heating the air in the tent will increase the moisture in the air because warm air can hold more moisture, and the hotter the tent is, the more moisture is released into the tent through evaporation and perspiration. Instead of heating the tent, wear appropriate clothing and sleeping bags to keep warm.
4. Open windows
Opening windows and/or using a small fan can provide the necessary airflow to help warm, humid air avoid settling on the tent fabric.
5. Being near water adds moisture to the air.
Rivers and lakes increase humidity. Setting up your tent away from water can help reduce condensation.
6. Carry a spare towel
Condensation is unavoidable in some weather conditions. Follow the steps above to reduce condensation and keep a spare towel handy for wiping.
This is the end of my sharing. I hope you can also enjoy the charm of the outdoors with your roof tent!
Now you have the skills to set up your tent. Are you confident and ready to give it a try? If you encounter new questions during the set-up process or would like to learn more about the details in this article, please leave a message to Naturnest. Naturnest hopes that this article provides some help for your installation, that will be my greatest gain.