Do You Really Need a Rooftop Tent for Overlanding?
In the realm of overlanding, there's a prevailing notion that a rooftop tent is a must-have accessory, akin to a badge of honor for serious adventurers. But let's pause for a moment and challenge this assumption. Do you truly need a rooftop tent to overland effectively, or is it just another piece of "overland jewelry"?
First things first, let's debunk the myth. Contrary to popular belief, a rooftop tent is not a prerequisite for overlanding. Sure, it's undeniably convenient and adds a touch of glamour to your setup, but it's far from being an essential item. At its core, overlanding is about exploration, adventure, and self-reliance, not about the type of tent perched atop your vehicle. People also don’t let others know the maintenance that roof top tents come with. You must make sure to let your tent air out from condensation after sleeping in it and if your roof top tent lives on your car like mine you must air it out once a month. Living in the PNW it is difficult to find a sunny day once a month throughout the year as well. If you neglect and forget to do this mold will grow and ruin your rent. To get mold out is an extreme pain and takes a very long time to do.
So, if a rooftop tent isn't a necessity, what are the alternatives? Well, there are several. For starters, if you've properly configured your vehicle's interior, sleeping inside can be just as comfortable and convenient as camping atop your roof. With the right setup, you can transform your car into a cozy sleeping quarters, complete with all the comforts of home.
Additionally, traditional ground tents remain a tried-and-true option for camping enthusiasts. Brands like Coleman offer innovative solutions like pop-up instant tents, which make setup a breeze, ensuring you spend less time pitching and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
At its essence, overlanding is not about the gear you have or the accessories you adorn your vehicle with. It's about the experience—the thrill of venturing into the wilderness, the camaraderie of sharing adventures with loved ones, or the solace found in solitary exploration.
Speaking from personal experience, I own a rooftop tent myself. However, I often find myself opting for a traditional tent depending on the situation and campsite. Sometimes, the flexibility of ground camping offers a better fit for the terrain or allows for a quicker setup when time is of the essence.
On particularly cold nights or when I'm traveling alone, I prefer to sleep inside my vehicle. It provides an added layer of insulation and security, especially during inclement weather. While setting up a rooftop tent is relatively easy, I prioritize safety and comfort, especially when conditions are less than ideal.
While a rooftop tent may be nice to have, it's certainly not a prerequisite for overlanding. Instead of fixating on acquiring the latest gear or decking out your vehicle with "overland jewelry," focus on what truly matters: the journey itself. Whether you're sleeping under the stars, cozied up inside your car, or nestled in a traditional tent, the essence of overlanding remains unchanged—adventure awaits, and it's yours for the taking. So pack your essentials, hit the road, and let the wilderness be your guide.
Roof Top Tents we recommend
iKamper Roof Top Tents | Love People, Love Nature | iKamper
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Ground Tents:
4 Person Coleman: https://amzn.to/3QuYpCD
6 Person Coleman: https://amzn.to/3vNTl59
10 Person Coleman: https://amzn.to/3U3pAoP
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