Both designs elevate your sleeping experience above the ground and put the outdoors within arm's reach — but they serve very different travel styles. Here's how to find your match.
Rooftop tents mount to your vehicle's roof rack and transform any drive into an adventure — no campsite booking required. While hardshell and softshell tents share that same liberating promise, the two designs approach sleeping in the wild from entirely different angles.
The right choice comes down to how you travel, how quickly you want to set up camp, and how much interior space matters to you. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before you decide.
Option One
Softshell Rooftop Tents
Softshell tents use a flexible, fabric-based shell that unfolds outward to create a generous sleeping area. They are the go-to choice for campers who prioritize roominess and comfort over compact form.
The fold-out construction allows for a larger interior footprint — tall enough to sit up in, wide enough for couples, families, or groups who plan to stay in one place for several nights at a stretch.
Because the layout expands freely, softshell designs also give you more freedom over how the sleeping space is arranged, making them popular for longer basecamp-style trips and road journeys where the tent doubles as a proper bedroom.
- Larger sleeping footprint when fully deployed
- Better interior height for sitting and moving around
- More flexible layout options for couples, families, or groups
- Ideal for extended stays at a single campsite
Softshell tents take a little longer to open and pack away compared to hardshell models. When folded, they also sit taller on the roof rack, which can influence your vehicle's aerodynamic profile and overall height clearance in garages or drive-throughs.
Option Two
Hardshell Rooftop Tents
Hardshell tents feature a rigid outer clamshell that opens in seconds, exposing a ready-to-sleep interior. They were engineered around one goal: get you from driving to sleeping with as little effort as possible.
The shell pops up in a matter of moments — a real advantage when you're hopping between campsites, chasing a weather window, or arriving at a remote spot after dark. When closed, the rigid lid keeps out the elements and sits lower on the roof than a packed softshell, contributing to better fuel economy on long drives.
Hardshell tents are the natural choice for solo travellers and couples who move frequently and want the freedom of a hassle-free camping rhythm without sacrificing a comfortable night's sleep.
- Opens and closes in a matter of moments
- Compact aerodynamic profile reduces wind drag
- Rigid shell offers superior all-weather protection
- Best suited for frequent movers and short overnight stays
The Decision
Which One Is Right for You?
When choosing between the two, think about how you actually use your time outdoors — not just the specs on paper. The best rooftop tent is the one that fits seamlessly into how you travel, where you go, and how long you stay.
Side-by-Side
Hardshell vs Softshell at a Glance
| Feature | Hardshell | Softshell |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | Seconds — opens instantly | A few minutes to unfold and secure |
| Interior Space | Compact and efficient | Generous and open |
| Roof Profile (Closed) | Low and streamlined | Taller, more visible on roof |
| All-Weather Protection | Excellent — rigid shell | Good — fabric-dependent |
| Best For | Solo travellers & frequent movers | Families & extended basecamp stays |
| Vehicle Compatibility | Lighter, suits smaller vehicles | Requires higher roof load rating |
Practical Guidance
Three Things to Think About First
Your Travel Rhythm
If you break camp often — single-night stops, spontaneous detours, or week-long road trips where the campsite changes daily — the instant setup of a hardshell will change your experience noticeably. For trips built around a home base, that speed advantage matters much less.
Space and Sleeping Comfort
For campers who value a proper open sleeping area — room to change, sit up, or spread out — softshell tents offer a noticeably more spacious interior. Hardshell models focus on convenience and a compact footprint, which is ideal but more modest in feel.
Your Vehicle's Roof Capacity
Tent design affects both weight and loaded roof height. Some hardshell models are lighter and more compact when closed, making them compatible with a broader range of vehicles. Softshell tents can be heavier and require roof racks with a higher dynamic load rating. Always verify your vehicle's specs before purchasing.
Featured Product
Ready to Sleep Under the Stars?
Whether you've decided on a hardshell or a softshell, choosing a quality tent built for real conditions makes all the difference. The 23ZERO Walkabout is a standout softshell option — purpose-built for families and adventure groups who refuse to compromise on comfort in the outdoors.
23ZERO Walkabout 87" 2.0 — 6-Person Roof Top Tent
A large-format softshell tent designed for serious adventurers. Generous interior space, durable all-weather construction, and a setup that's straightforward enough for solo deployment. Built for 6 and ready for anything.