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What Vehicles Are Best for Roof Tents?
Not all cars are created equal when it comes to roof tent camping.
While many vehicles can technically carry a roof tent, some make better platforms than others — for comfort, clearance, and long-term practicality.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best types of vehicles for roof tents, what to look out for, and what setups work best for your adventures.
✅ The Short Answer
You can mount a roof tent on almost any vehicle with the right roof bars — as long as:
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It has a solid roof load limit (50kg+)
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You install vehicle-specific roof bars
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Your tent and accessories don’t exceed weight limits
🔗 Learn how to mount one: How to Mount a Roof Tent on Your Vehicle
🚐 Best Types of Vehicles for Roof Tents
1. SUVs & Crossovers
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✅ High roof load limits
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✅ Ample ground clearance
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✅ Perfect for weekenders & road trips
Examples: Ford Kuga, VW Tiguan, Nissan Qashqai
2. Estate Cars
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✅ Low centre of gravity (better handling)
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✅ Easy tent access
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✅ Great for couples or solo trips
Examples: Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3 Series Touring, Skoda Octavia Estate
3. Pickups
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✅ Ideal for 2-person or family-sized roof tents
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✅ Often include bed racks for hybrid setups
Examples: Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max
4. Vans (SWB/MWB)
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✅ Big roof space
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✅ Better sleeping headroom
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✅ Stronger roofs than most cars
Examples: VW Transporter, Ford Transit Custom, Vauxhall Vivaro
❌ What to Watch Out For
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Convertibles / soft tops: not suitable
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Small hatchbacks: check roof load — many max out at 50kg
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Frameless windows: may not allow clamp bar systems
Not sure about yours? Use our Roof Bar Fitment Tool or contact the team directly for guidance.
⚖️ Check Your Roof Load Before Buying
It’s not just about the tent — your total roof load includes:
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Roof bars (~5–7kg)
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Tent (typically 40–65kg)
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Ladder + any gear (5–10kg)
🔗 Get details here: The Legal Load Limits for Roof Bars in the UK
🔧 Need Roof Bars for Your Vehicle?
We stock bars for over 700 makes and models.
Browse by vehicle here:
👉 https://www.myroofbars.co.uk/collections/roof-bars