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The ultimate guide to rooftop tents from Thule

Thule rooftop tents set up at a campsite by the water

The ultimate guide to rooftop tents from Thule

In this article you will get everything you need to compare models, understand key features, and choose the rooftop tent that’s right for your vehicle and your adventures. With different designs, materials, and accessories to consider, finding the perfect match is essential for making every trip smoother, safer, and more comfortable.

Why choose a Thule rooftop tent

The pros and cons of hardshell vs. softshell tents
Key specs, durability features, materials, and weather performance
How to choose the right accessories for your setup
How to prepare your vehicle for installation
When to upgrade and what to upgrade to

Why choose a Thule rooftop tent?

Choosing the right rooftop tent isn’t just about size or price, it’s about reliability, comfort, safety, and long-term performance. Thule rooftop tents are engineered for travelers who want premium materials, thoughtful design, and trustworthy durability no matter the destination.

Safety: Tested to the limit

At the Thule Test Center™ in Hillerstorp, our rooftop tents undergo extensive testing, from climate and durability evaluations to crash tests at varying speeds and loads. This ensures secure mounting and reliable performance in real conditions. Read more about Thule Test Center™.

roof top tent rigorously tested in Thule test center

Woman in a rooftop tent enjoying the view

Smart solutions: Elevate experience

Every tent includes thoughtful features that improve comfort and functionality. For instance, Thule Widesky’s convertible mattress doubles as a backrest, creating a versatile space for both sleeping and relaxing.

Roof top tent camping setup in nature by a lake

Easy to use: Adventure ready

Our car tents are designed for quick, intuitive handling, from first installation to packing up. For example, innovative mounting brackets enable roof installation in just minutes.

Smart accessories to expand your setup

Awnings, walls, lighting, and mounting gear let you customize your tent to match your travel style.

Thule rooftop tent comparison

Every camper has different needs, and Thule rooftop tents are designed to meet them. Whether you prefer the speed and durability of a hardshell model or the extra space of a softshell design, this comparison will help you understand the differences and choose the tent that’s right for your adventures.

Thule rooftop tent set up on a car at sunset

Thule Widesky

Effortless setup and great comfort, the ideal rooftop tent for adventure campers

Style: Hardshell rooftop tent
Size: Two-person hardshell rooftop tent
Benefits: Comfortable interior with sofa and light.
Easy to install and set up (30 sec)

Thule rooftop tent with an awning on a car

Thule Approach 2

Comfortable and spacious rooftop tent for adventure and family campers

Style: Softshell rooftop tent
Sizes: S - 2 persons, M - 2-3 persons, L - 3-4 persons
Benefits: Spacious with large panoramic windows 
Easy to install and set up (3 min)

Thule rooftop tent set up on an off road vehicle

Thule Foothill 2

Compact rooftop tent, leaving spaces for gear on the roof, for active campers

Style: Softshell rooftop tent
Size: Two-person rooftop tent
Benefits: Half size on roof, frees up space for gear 
Full comfort, folds out to fit 2 persons

Thule rooftop tent set up at a beach campsite

Thule Outset

Revolutionary rear-mounted tent for the comfortable camper

Style: Towbar/hitch-mounted car tent
Size: Sleeps two-three persons
Benefits: Comfort of rooftop tent at ground level
Easy to mount and detach

Essential Thule accessories for your rooftop tent

To get the most from your rooftop tent, accessories help expand comfort, shelter, and storage. With the right Thule add-ons, you can tailor your setup to your vehicle and travel style. Recommended accessories include:

Awnings and walls – shade and shelter for sun or rain
Mattress toppers – extra sleeping comfort
Anti-condensation mats – improved airflow under your mattress
Organizers for shoes and gear – practical storage solutions that keep footwear and equipment clean, dry, and easily accessible outside the sleeping area
Fitted sheets – tailored bedding designed to fit your mattress perfectly, providing a secure fit and added comfort for a better night’s sleep

Thule Approach awning 2 S/M

rooftop tent awning

Thule Approach awning 2 walls M

walls to rooftop tent awning

Thule Rooftop Tent Organizer

roof top tent shoe organizer

Thule Approach mattress topper S

mattress topper

Thule Outset and Thule Approach M Fitted Sheet 3-person sheet bedding

Thule Approach S Fitted Sheet

2-person sheet bedding

Thule rooftop tent set up on a car by the coast

Thule rooftop tent with an awning at a beach campsite

Thule rooftop tent set up on an off road vehicle at sunset

Thule rooftop tent with awning and camp setup at the beach

A rooftop tent alternative for a wide range of vehicles

Not every vehicle is designed to carry a rooftop tent, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the adventure. With the Thule Outset, you mount your tent directly to the towbar or hitch, making installation, setup, and access simple and intuitive. This design keeps your roof free, reduces heavy lifting, and gives you the freedom adn comfort to detach the tent when parked, so you can continue using your car throughout your trip.