Planning Your Perfect Roof Tent Setup: From Bars to Accessories

A roof tent turns your vehicle into a mobile adventure base. But choosing the right setup isn’t just about picking a tent—it’s about building a complete system that works for your travels.

From the right roof bars to clever storage, every piece of gear has to work together. Here’s how to plan your ultimate roof tent setup for safe, comfortable, unforgettable trips.

✅ 1. Start with the Right Roof Bars

Your roof bars are the foundation.

✔ Check your vehicle’s dynamic and static roof load ratings.
✔ Choose bars rated for roof tents.
✔ Make sure they’re compatible with your tent’s mounts.
✔ Look for T-slots or cross-bar spacing that suits your accessories.

We only stock bars handpicked for roof tents, so you can buy confidently knowing your setup is safe and secure. Explore roof tent-compatible bars

✅ 2. Choose Your Roof Tent

Your tent is your bedroom on the road.

✔ Consider how many people need to sleep.
✔ Hard-shell or soft-shell?
✔ Quick set-up vs space when packed.
✔ Weight relative to your bars and roof limits.

A good tent makes every trip easier.

Shop roof tents by 2-3 person, 3-4 person, soft shell or hard shell.

✅ 3. Don’t Forget the Load Limits

Safety first:

✅ Dynamic load = weight when driving.
✅ Static load = weight when parked with people inside.

Include everything:

• Bars

• Tent

• Accessories

• Roof boxes

• Racks and carriers

It’s easy to overload. Plan carefully and choose gear designed to work together.

✅ 4. Add Awnings and Shade

A roof tent is amazing—but what about daytime comfort?

✔ Side awnings for easy shade.
✔ Rear or 270-degree wraparound options.
✔ Clip-on walls for privacy or bad weather.

Choose awnings that mount cleanly with your roof tent system.

 Shop roof tent-compatible awnings

✅ 5. Roof Boxes, Baskets, and Storage

Smart storage is the difference between a messy, stressful trip and smooth sailing.

✔ Roof boxes for clothes, food, dry gear.
✔ Baskets for wet or dirty items.
✔ Tailgate boxes to keep gear accessible even with the tent open.
✔ Lockable, weatherproof designs for security.

These extras let you travel light inside your vehicle—and sleep in comfort up top.

Explore storage solutions

✅ 6. Carriers for Bikes, Kayaks, and More

Your adventure doesn’t stop at camp.

✔ Roof-mounted bike racks and kayak carriers.
✔ Rear racks for heavier loads or better balance.
✔ Low-profile designs that work with roof tents.

We choose only tent-friendly options—so you can bring the gear you love without compromise.

✅ 7. Plan for Comfort: Accessories Matter

Don’t forget the little things that make your setup yours.

✔ Sleeping gear designed for roof tents.
✔ Lighting and power options.
✔ Collapsible kitchen setups.
✔ Storage bags and organisers.

These details turn a basic setup into a true home-from-home on the road.

✅ 8. Bundle It and Save

We know choosing gear can be daunting. That’s why we offer curated bundles:

✔ Matched for compatibility.
✔ Designed for your vehicle type.
✔ Savings compared to buying individually.
✔ Simplified shopping experience.

Build your bundle page

✅ 9. Why Choose Us?

At My Roof Tents, we’re not just another shop.

✔ Every product is handpicked for roof tent setups.
✔ UK-based advice from real outdoor lovers.
✔ Focused on safety, compatibility, and real adventure needs.
✔ No guesswork—just great gear.

Your adventure deserves the best setup. Let’s build it together.

Ready to plan your perfect roof tent adventure? Explore our full range of compatible gear and build your dream setup today.

Build Your Setup Now