Sleeping Arrangements Guide

@the_dark_yota with a deployed hard-shell RTT

In recent years, rooftop tents have become almost synonymous with the overland experience, and for good reason! However, they are far from the only option. As more of the staff here at SSW gain experience with off-roading and dispersed camping, we’ve found there are actually some great benefits to sleeping somewhere other than your roof. In this article, we’ll cover a few alternatives, their pros and cons, and also highlight our current selection of RTTs.

The Rooftop Tent (RTT)

The current reigning champ of off-road sleep setups is the rooftop tent. Although the concept of mounting a folding tent to a vehicle’s roof has been around for decades, they’ve really only exploded in popularity over the last ten years or so. They typically come in two styles: soft shell or hard shell. Hard shells usually boast better aerodynamics and durability, though at a higher price.

Pros:

• Elevated from the ground (bugs, elements, animals)
• Comfortable padded sleeping surface
• Great aesthetics

Cons:

• Expensive
• Adds weight
• Raises the vehicle’s center of gravity
• Wind noise
• Reduced MPG

@5.7snow with a soft RTT

Rooftop tents provide a consistent, reliable sleeping arrangement regardless of weather or terrain, which is why they remain so popular. Low-profile bed racks can also reduce wind noise and drag. They’re a great solution, but not without their drawbacks.

Camper Shell / Bed Cap

A tried-and-true solution for truck campers, camper shells are also making a strong comeback in the off-road world. The traditional fiberglass shell is now only one option; canvas and metal shells are becoming increasingly common. Canvas styles, like Softopper, are more affordable and easy to remove. Metal shells, like SmartCap, offer extra storage, rugged looks, and cargo mounting capability, but at a premium price.

Pros:

• Aerodynamic
• Daily-driver friendly
• Lockable storage
• Good weather and wind resistance

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• Cargo must be removed to sleep
• Short-bed trucks limit sleeping space

@surfnturf.outdoors with a SmartCap

For many, shells are a smart alternative to RTTs. Having tried both, switching to a camper shell has been a better fit for my own camping needs. One thing to note: the shell transforms the bed into a shared cargo-and-sleeping space. In muddy or snowy conditions, packing up camp without dirtying your sleeping area takes some planning.

@exploringyaweh with a SmartCap

Ground Tent / Covered Cot

Probably the oldest and most time-tested option is the ground tent. Long before RTTs ever existed, this was how people camped. With today’s quick-setup ground tents, plus their lightweight, compact, and affordable nature, this option is still a solid choice. Covered cots add elevation off the ground, addressing some of the traditional tent’s weaknesses.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Minimal impact on vehicle performance
• Quick setup options

Cons:

• Uneven ground surfaces
• Poor wind resistance
• Less protection from animals and elements

A folding covered cot setup

Final Thoughts

The best sleeping arrangement depends on your priorities. If off-road performance is key, you may prefer a lightweight option that doesn’t affect handling. If comfort during long touring trips is non-negotiable, a hard-shell RTT might be worth it. Maybe your SUV’s fold-flat seats work just fine. Or perhaps a mix of options suits you best.

Whatever your choice, we hope this article helps you find the setup that matches your needs and adventures.

@littowildpack putting a RTT to good use!