Compared to a conventional tent,  not only are the acquisition costs higher, but also the weight. Before starting the journey, between  40 and 70 kilograms have to be lifted onto the car roof. You might not be able to do that with two people,  but it takes several people. 

 

Most roof tents are between 130 and 160 centimeters wide, and if they are not carried in the car in winter, they have to be stored somewhere: preferably with a cable on the garage ceiling,  ideally with the mounted carriers, unless you need them for a ski box. 

 

Anyway, the weight of the roof tent must be suitable for the car. You have to check that the weight of the roof tent and roof rack as well as luggage and people does not exceed the maximum vehicle weight. 

 

In addition, the maximum permissible roof load of the car must be observed. Fuel consumption increases slightly with the roof tent,  and handling can change slightly as the vehicle’s center of gravity moves up a bit. Due to the greater vehicle height ferries can be more expensive.

A distinction is made between hardshell rooftop tent models and folding tents. This has recently been joined by inflatable rooftop tents. The lower shell is the floor and the upper shell is the roof. Inside are the mattress and the tent fabric,  which when open forms the outer skin on the side. 

 

There are two ways to open it:  the upper shell is opened or pushed up by two or four gas pressure dampers) or by hand-cranked up. When closed, the folding tents are protected against moisture and dirt with a tarpaulin and can be opened in a variety of ways when in use. 

 

Folding fabric tents can often be expanded to include a shower, kitchen, or awning, thus enlarging the living area. It also gives you more protection from rain and sun.