Let's face it, we all buy roof top tents for their practicality and convenience of setting up and packing down. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to rooftop camping, there are plenty of DIY upgrades to further improve your setup. From enhancing comfort and practicality to ensuring your tent stands the test of time, these roof top tent upgrades will make every adventure more enjoyable.
This guide focuses on practical solutions and uses key components like roof top tent hard shells, roof top tent accessories, and roof top tent ladders. Let’s dive into some simple but effective roof top tent upgrades to elevate your camping experience.
1. Install Over-Centre Latches for Easier Closing
Closing a roof top tent ready for a long day of driving can sometimes feel like a chore. Especially if you have to climb on top of the tent to use your body weight to close it. Over-centre latches are a brilliant solution to make the process faster and more efficient. These latches create a more secure and tight seal when closing your tent, ensuring it’s locked down without the extra hassle.
How to Do It:
- Over centre latches can be found at most hardware stores.
- Remove your original latches and install the over centre latches. You may have to modify the bolt holes to suit your tent.
- Tip: Mount the latches upside down so they don't interfere with your awning.
This upgrade is particularly beneficial for hard shell rooftop tents, where a tight closure is essential to protect against the elements.
2. Add Heat Shrink to Zippers to Eliminate Noise
Windy nights can turn the gentle hum of nature into an orchestra of rattling zippers. Adding heat shrink tubing to the zipper pulls of your roof top tent eliminates this issue.
Steps to Install:
- Cut small sections of heat shrink tubing to fit over your zipper pulls.
- Slide the tubing onto each pull.
- Use a heat gun to shrink the tubing securely.
This simple upgrade makes your tent quieter and more user-friendly, especially on blustery nights.
3. Install a Light Switch at the Tent Entrance
Navigating a roof top tent ladder in the dark can be a challenge. Installing a light switch near the entrance of your tent ensures you always have illumination when climbing in or out. To make the job easier, purchase our bracket that simply bolts straight to your tent and protects your wiring.
Materials Needed:
- 12V work/flood light
- Light switch bracket
- Wire and wiring tools
Mount the work light under your tent and place the light switch within easy reach of the entrance. This small but impactful roof top tent upgrade enhances both safety and convenience.
4. Add a Spirit Level for Easy Levelling
Sleeping on uneven ground can ruin a night under the stars. By attaching a spirit level to your roof top tent, you can quickly assess if your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and adjust as needed. Recovery boards can be used as an easy way of levelling your vehicle if their is no flat ground.
How to Attach a Spirit Level:
- Choose a compact bubble-style spirit level.
- Bolt to the channel tracks underneath your tent.
This upgrade is particularly valuable for roof top tent hard shells, where even slight unevenness can be more noticeable due to the rigid base.
5. Keep Moisture Absorbers in the Tent
Condensation is a common issue in rooftop tents, especially in cooler or humid conditions. Over time, excess moisture can lead to mould growth, unpleasant odours, and material degradation. Placing moisture absorbers inside your tent helps maintain a dry and mould-free environment.
Recommended Option:
- Cli-mate 150g Sunsack Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier
Place these absorbers in corners and storage pockets, they will change colour when they are full and can be reused by leaving them in the sun to dry.
6. Easily Route 12V Power into the Tent
No more battery packs! Having access to 12V power inside your roof top tent can make camping much more convenient. Whether it’s charging your phone, powering lights, or running small devices, this upgrade is a game-changer.
How to Do It:
- Route the cable through an existing seam or port in your tent. Often there is a velcro opening at the front (hinging) side of the tent where the wires can go through and will still seal when the tent is closed.
- Install USB adapters or multi-port hubs inside the tent for maximum functionality.
This simple addition ensures you’re always connected and prepared, even in remote locations.
7. Add a 12V Fan for Hot Nights
Hot summer nights can make sleeping in a rooftop tent uncomfortable. Adding a 12V fan can significantly improve airflow and keep the interior cool.
Our Recommendation:
- Most 18V battery-powered fans are ideal as they run all night on a single charge and recharge quickly.
- If you have 12V source in the tent, the Sirocco Caravan fans work great.
Mount the fan securely inside the tent or place it in a strategic location to maximise airflow. This upgrade is essential for camping during warmer months.
8. Install Self-Adhesive LED Light Strips
Lighting can make all the difference when setting up or relaxing in your rooftop tent. Self-adhesive LED light strips are an excellent way to add versatile lighting that is both functional and stylish.
How to Install:
- Choose LED light strips with a self-adhesive backing.
- Stick the strips along the sail track at the top of your tent for even illumination.
- Hardwire them to your 12V power supply for a reliable and long-lasting setup.
Why RGB LEDs?
- RGB versions allow you to change the light colour. For instance, red or yellow lighting reduces the attraction of bugs to your tent, keeping your sleeping space more pleasant.
This upgrade provides excellent ambient lighting and makes your tent more comfortable and practical.
9. Upgrade Your Roof Top Tent Ladder Steps
Climbing in and out of your roof top tent should be as comfortable and safe as possible. Installing our roof top tent ladder step upgrade adds extra grip and stability to your ladder, making it easier to use in all weather conditions.
How to Install:
- Purchase our ladder step upgrade kit designed to fit most roof top tent ladders.
- Securely attach the upgraded steps to your existing ladder using the provided hardware.
- Ensure the steps are evenly spaced and securely fastened.
Each step is fitted with durable non-slip rubber and increases the stepping surface area, providing enhanced safety and balance in wet or muddy conditions.
Conclusion
These DIY roof top tent upgrades are simple, cost-effective, and guaranteed to improve your camping experience. Whether it’s installing over-centre latches, routing 12V power into your tent, or adding a 12V fan for hot nights, each upgrade brings added comfort, practicality, and durability to your adventures.
With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your roof top tent into a more efficient and enjoyable space. Start implementing these ideas today and take your outdoor adventures to the next level. Happy camping!