We are a Canadian adventure family that loves to connect to nature and each other in the outdoors. Our camp memories are the highlight of our summers. We really elevated our camping trips with our Thule Approach roof top tent. It was important for me to bring you this blog that goes over why to choose a rooftop tent, safety considerations with small kids, our tent details, how to prepare for rooftop tenting, what to pack for rooftop tenting, setting up your rooftop tent, camping tips, tent specs, and the downside of rooftop tenting.
Camping is one of the best ways for families to bond and enjoy the great outdoors together and we are here for it. Rooftop tents have become increasingly popular among adventurous families, offering a unique and convenient way to camp. We camp on top of our Toyota 4Runner and you read more on why I love my Toyota here. If you’re considering a rooftop tent experience, this guide will cover everything you need to know about camping with a rooftop tent, focusing on my Thule Approach, which has elevated our family camping experience. My kids have been camping in a rooftop tent since they were one and three years old. It so much fun and helps us feel a little safer camping in bear country.
Why Choose a Rooftop Tent?
Convenience: Rooftop tents are easy to set up and take down, often requiring just a few minutes to secure to your vehicle and unfold. Our tent stays on the Toyota for the whole summer. We install our rooftop tent around June each year.
Comfort: They keep you off the ground, providing a more comfortable sleeping experience away from insects, dampness, wildlife and uneven terrain.
Versatility: Many rooftop tents can be mounted on various vehicles, making them an excellent option for families on the go.
Better Views: Sleeping elevated offers a whole new perspective on nature, allowing you to enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Literally, we wake up as a family with the best views.
Safety Tips for Camping with a Rooftop Tent and Kids (small kids).
A rooftop tent can be a great adventure for families, but safety should always be your top priority, especially when little ones are in tow. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience:
Supervise at All Times: Always keep an eye on children while they are around the tent and campsite. Make sure they understand the boundaries and stay clear of hazards. Toddlers will be attracted to danger when camping so they cannot be left unattended even for a second.
Secure the Tent Ladder: Ensure that the ladder leading up to the rooftop tent is stable and not left unattended. Reinforce the importance of using the ladder carefully, showing the kids how to climb up and down safely. Toddlers are obsessed with trying to climb the ladder.
Check the Area for Hazards: Before setting up camp, inspect the surrounding area for potential dangers such as sharp rocks, fallen branches, or steep drop-offs that could pose a risk to children. We try and camp in a less busy part of the campsite too.
First Aid Preparedness: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand, including items tailored for kids' needs. Familiarize yourself with its contents so you can quickly handle any minor injuries.
Set Up a Safe Sleeping Environment: When unpacking, make sure the area inside the tent is clear of clutter to prevent trips and falls. Keep sleeping bags and gear organized and out of walkways. I use baby safe sleeping bags when camping with my kids.
Nighttime Awareness: When it gets dark, use headlamps to navigate yourself up and down the tent area. Try and keep lanterns in your tent to have a light source for the kids to see.
Emergency Plan: Discuss an emergency plan with your family, including the risks of climbing up and down the ladder of the roodtop tent.
Plan for weather: Ensure you are ready if there is rain or any other kind of weather risks with kids. So many times, I assume it won't rain and it does. Just putting up rain and enclosed cover will keep you and your family dry.
Featured Tent: Thule Approach
The Thule Approach represents the next level in rooftop tents, offering more space, comfort, and opportunities for adventures. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice for family camping:
Quick Setup for Easy Getaways: The Thule Approach features innovative mounting brackets that allow you to install the tent on your roof in just minutes—half the time of traditional rooftop tents. Once you arrive at your destination, simply unzip the travel cover, unfold the base, and you are ready to camp in under three minutes! I have been able to set up our rooftop tent myself with the kids.
Comfort Close to Nature: This tent elevates your adventure, quite literally. You’ll be sleeping high above the ground, closer to nature than ever before. The panoramic windows on the ceiling and walls allow for breathtaking stargazing and natural light, creating a cozy atmosphere. You can also enclose yourself to the point where you won't even know its daylight outside which is nice to get some extra sleep while camping with the kids.
Spacious Interior: With its innovative design, the Thule Approach provides ample room for two adults and one child or two adults comfortably. Ours is Medium size and the 4 of us fit comfortably with extra room to move around and bring the kids stuff up.
Innovative Mounting Brackets: Attach the tent to your car in minutes, with mounting hardware that locks the tent securely to your roof racks. I cannot take credit for mounting the brackets as my husband handles putting the tent on solo.
Scroll down to read more on specifications with the Thule Approach.
Preparing for Your Rooftop Tent Adventure
Choose the Right Tent: The Thule Approach suits our family's needs perfectly. There are different sizes and variations to suit your vehicle and needs.
Test the Setup: Before you head out, practice setting up your rooftop tent at home. Familiarizing yourself with the process will make it easier in the field, especially with little ones around. We camped in the yard a few times prior to heading out on a camping trip.
Check Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure your vehicle can support the weight of the tent and passengers, and that you have a proper roof rack to secure it. A roof rack is a must for the 4Runner in order to put the tent on it. Double check compatibility prior to purchasing the tent.
Packing Essentials for Rooftop Tent Camping
Bedding: Bring sleeping bags and pillows for a cozy night's sleep. Consider adding a sleeping pad for extra comfort. I pack the kids sleeping bags and we bring a couple extra outdoor blankets too. Keep packing as simple as possible with kids because it is a lot of items to juggle while supervising kids at the campsite.
Camping Gear: Pack a portable stove or grill, cooking utensils, and a cooler for food. Don’t forget a set of dishes and cutlery, as well as trash bags for clean-up.
Lighting: Bring headlamps or lanterns for nighttime visibility, as well as a portable charger for electronics.
Clothing: Pack layers suitable for the weather—lightweight clothing for day hikes and warm layers for cold nights.
Safety and First Aid: A first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a multi-tool should always be on hand.
Games and Activities: Bring along board games, cards, or outdoor toys to keep everyone entertained during downtime.
Setting Up Your Rooftop Tent
Find a Suitable Location: Look for a flat, level area to park your vehicle. Make sure it’s allowed to camp there and check for any nearby hazards, such as falling branches.
Unfold the Tent: Remove any straps securing the tent and unfold it according to the long-lasting and easy setup of the Thule Approach.
Secure the Ladder: Ensure that the ladder is stable and properly connected to the tent, making it easy for everyone to access.
Set Up the Rain Fly: If the weather calls for it, don’t forget to attach the rain fly to protect against rain or dew.
Personalize the Inside: Once the tent is set I bring all of our items and toddler toys up to the tent.
Tips for a Successful Rooftop Tent Camping Trip
Check the Weather: Always review the weather forecast before your trip, as unexpected storms can affect your camping experience. This always seems to be the case on the weekends here in Alberta.
Stay Organized: Utilize storage bins or bags to keep your gear tidy and easily reachable.
Practice Leave No Trace: Show respect for nature by cleaning up after yourself and adhering to Leave No Trace principles.
Specifications of the Thule Approach Tent
Sleeping Capacity: 3 persons
Dimensions (Open): 240 x 143 x 102 cm (L x W x H)
Dimensions (Closed): 124 x 143 x 28 cm (L x W x H)
Sleeping Footprint: 240 x 130 cm
Weight: 58 kg
Static Weight Capacity: 300 kg
Base Construction: Welded aluminum and insulation
Canopy Fabric: 600D water-resistant polyester ripstop
Seasons: All
Mosquito Screens: Yes
Color: Dark Slate
Model Number: 901014
Compatibility: Fits Thule Xsporter Pro and TracRac (adapters required). Minimum bar spread: 80 cm.
While rooftop tent camping offers many benefits, there are some downsides to consider:
Cost: Rooftop tents can be expensive compared to traditional ground tents, both in initial investment and the additional potential costs for a suitable roof rack.
Weight Limitations: Vehicles must be capable of supporting the weight of the tent and occupants, which can limit options for smaller or less sturdy vehicles.
Access Issues: Climbing up and down the ladder may not be ideal for everyone, especially small kids or those with mobility issues. It can be inconvenient during nighttime trips to the restroom.
Weather Vulnerability: Although rooftop tents are designed for various weather conditions, they can still be susceptible to wind and heavy rain, which might impact comfort during inclement weather. If your tent set up does get wet, you need to let it all dry out properly. Ideally, you don't want to have to pack up a wet tent but sometimes you need to.
Less Space: Rooftop tents often have limited living and storage space compared to larger ground tents, which can be an issue for families with significant gear.
Setup Time: Although rooftop tents set up quickly, removing the tent from the vehicle and securing it can be time-consuming if not practiced.
Vehicle Limitations: Depending on the vehicle type, rooftop tents may limit access to the roof for other uses (e.g., carrying bikes or kayaks). Also, once you set up camp, you cannot just easily drive in to town or on an adventure. You must take the town down and secure it properly before moving the vehicle.
Heat Retention: Rooftop tents can retain heat more than ground tents, particularly in warmer weather, which might lead to discomfort during the night.
I hope your summers are filled with family camping trips! I would love to know in the comments if you're considering adding a rooftop tent to your adventures. We have had a lot of fun with ours and really enjoyed the comfort and warmth of being up and off the ground.
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