Experience the Freedom of Rooftop Tents
If you’re not ready to commit to an RV, a high-end, rooftop car tent may be just the thing to get you living your best #vanlife.
You better get ready for people to stare. Outside the fly fishing store, while sitting at an Italian restaurant, and walking down the street, this rooftop rig seemed to attract attention everywhere I went. One curious individual even asked if it was a satellite dish, suggesting some nefarious motives.
Sorry to disappoint, conspiracy theorists: I was simply trying out the #vanlife, with a rooftop tent that can make camping easier and more accessible for anyone who has been hesitant about sleeping on the ground.
The Rise of Road Trips and RVs
This summer, road trips and RVs have taken center stage in travel, prompting many to contemplate the possibility of living out of their vehicles while exploring hidden byways close to home. Across the U.S., interest in recreational vehicles has surged dramatically. The RV rental platform Outdoorsy reports a staggering 2,600 percent increase in searches this spring. Moreover, the RV Industry Association revealed that shipments this July reached levels not seen in 40 years, with an impressive growth of nearly 54 percent compared to last July. In fact, sprinter vans converted into luxurious mini-campers are now selling for close to $200,000.
Introducing Roofnest: The Solution for Aspiring Vanlifers
While this is indeed the summer for camping and RVing, securing a desirable RV may not be straightforward. However, there is a fantastic alternative: Roofnest, a Boulder, Colorado-based company crafting a diverse selection of hard-sided, pop-top tents that can easily fit on most vehicles. These rooftop tents have the potential to transform almost any vehicle into a basic RV by dramatically increasing living space right on the roof rack. In fact, GoTravelDaily described them as the ideal way to “ease into the #vanlife.”
Testing the Roofnest Falcon
Eager to experience one firsthand and evaluate whether it lives up to its roughly $3,000 price tag, I arranged to borrow a Roofnest over a recent summer weekend. I tested the $3,400 Roofnest Falcon model, mounted on a 2020 Kia Telluride, during a two-night camping trip in the Catskill Mountains. The conclusion? While the price point is substantial, the Roofnest Falcon proves to be a worthy investment for outdoor enthusiasts.
Simple Setup and Cozy Interior
Although Roofnest’s West Coast background might suggest rugged overland adventures in remote wilderness, I chose a more accessible getaway in Sullivan County, New York. Upon arriving at a reserved campsite in a charming family-run escape near Roscoe, New York—a top fly fishing destination—setting up camp was incredibly simple. With just the flip of two latches, the Roofnest sprung into action, aided by gas struts that assisted in its setup. Erecting an aluminum ladder and extending the awning took merely two more minutes. Consequently, my campsite was ready in no time, significantly easier than dealing with traditional tent poles or tarps, especially as the sun began to set.
Comfort and Practicality
The interior featured a 7-centimeter (2.8-inch) foam mattress, which was noticeably more comfortable than the typical sleeping pad. Additionally, a layer of anti-condensation netting offered extra warmth and support. A mesh gear loft provided ample space for essentials like jackets and headlamps. The large windows, equipped with efficient bug netting, ensured plenty of fresh air circulated within, making the living space surprisingly cozy.
However, there are minor downsides to consider. Primarily, when your tent is tethered to your vehicle, you must dismantle it every time you wish to drive—perhaps to visit a nearby brewery or hiking trail. While the Roofnest is elevated and keeps you dry, it will not benefit from the campfire’s warmth and is susceptible to smoke. Moreover, if you need to get up in the middle of the night, you’ll have to navigate a ladder to exit the tent.
Weather Resistance and Vehicle Compatibility
Despite these quirks, by the second night, the Falcon felt like a home away from home. When a sudden thunderstorm hit, the durable poly-cotton tent fabric and aluminum hard shell kept every drop of moisture at bay—a feat not all traditional tents can claim.
Final Thoughts on the Kia Telluride
A rooftop tent is only as effective as the vehicle it’s mounted on. In my case, the Kia Telluride SX proved to be an excellent match. It offered ample interior space for camping gear—sleeping bags, cookware, extra blankets, folding chairs, and even a cooler. Advanced safety features like Highway Driving Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control facilitated a smooth drive to the campsite. The option to manually shift through the eight gears, combined with on-demand all-wheel drive, made traversing muddy slopes and gravel roads effortless.
Many reviewers have praised the Telluride, with one favorably noting its spaciousness, comparing it to “sitting alone in a ski gondola.” The model also garnered accolades as the 2020 Utility Vehicle of the Year. Just imagine the attention it will attract with a tent mounted on top!
