If you're serious about touring Australia, a rooftop tent is one of the best upgrades you can make to your setup. No more fighting with pegs in rocky ground, no more waking up in a puddle, and no more spending 20 minutes packing a wet tent at 6am. You park, you climb up, you sleep.
But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide breaks down what actually matters when choosing a rooftop tent for Australian conditions.
Hard Shell vs Soft Top: Which Is Better?
Hard shell rooftop tents fold flat when packed, meaning less drag on the highway and faster setup — usually under a minute. Great if you're covering big distances between stops.
Soft top rooftop tents generally offer more interior space for the money. Canvas walls breathe well and handle condensation better. Better value if you're doing longer stationary camps.
Think about how you actually camp — moving every day, or setting up base for a few nights? That usually points you in the right direction.
What to Look for in Australian Conditions
Canvas quality: Look for UV-rated canvas at least 280GSM. Thicker canvas handles sun exposure better long-term.
Mattress thickness: A 50-65mm high-density foam mattress makes a real difference. Cheap tents often skimp here.
Hardware and zippers: Corrosion-resistant hardware matters near the coast. YKK zippers are a good sign — cheap zippers are one of the most common failure points.
Roof rack compatibility: Check the minimum and maximum bar spread against your existing rack setup.
Weight rating: Check the tent's weight against your rack's dynamic load limit (what it carries while driving), which is typically lower than the static limit.
How Much Should You Spend?
Entry-level soft tops start around $800-$1,200. Mid-range options in the $1,500-$2,500 range offer noticeably better canvas, hardware, and mattress quality. Hard shells generally start from $2,000 and go well beyond $3,000 for premium options.
Annex or No Annex?
An annex attaches to the side of the tent and extends your living area at ground level — useful for changing, storage, or extra sleeping space. Worth factoring in for family touring or longer trips.
The Bottom Line
The best rooftop tent suits how you actually tour — your rig, your budget, and the trips you're planning. Focus on canvas quality, mattress thickness, solid hardware, and roof rack compatibility.
Check out our rooftop tent range at Sunset Touring — Australian owned and operated, with options to suit a range of setups and budgets.