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Your Adventure Starts at the Top. Discover Roof Tents, Bars, and All the Gear to Go With It!
Your Adventure Starts at the Top. Discover Roof Tents, Bars, and All the Gear to Go With It!
Setting Up the Skypod Lite

Setting Up the Skypod Lite

The Skypod Lite is designed for lightweight touring, offering a compact footprint without compromising on strength or comfort.
Built for small vehicles and weekend travellers, it combines a simple folding frame with durable materials and a minimal aerodynamic profile.
This guide explains how to install, open, and maintain the Skypod Lite for reliable, all-season use.


Mounting and Installation

The Skypod Lite is compatible with most standard and aftermarket roof-bar systems rated for a dynamic load of 50 kg or higher.

Before installation:

  • Ensure the bars are parallel and evenly spaced between 70–90 cm apart.

  • Use the supplied U-bolt or T-slot brackets depending on the crossbar type.

  • Check torque evenly across all fixings to maintain base alignment.

The lightweight build (approx. 48 kg) allows two-person installation without tools beyond those provided in the fitting kit.


Setup Process

The Skypod Lite uses a fold-out soft-shell design for rapid deployment and minimal moving parts.

To set up:

  1. Remove the PVC cover.

  2. Unclip the retaining straps.

  3. Pull the ladder outward — this unfolds the base automatically.

  4. Extend the ladder fully and secure it on level ground.

  5. Adjust window and door flaps for ventilation or privacy.

Setup typically takes 2–3 minutes once familiar with the sequence.

To close:

  1. Remove canopy poles and fold the ladder inward.

  2. Guide the fabric inside the base.

  3. Refit the PVC cover and secure all straps.

The compact fold and reinforced cover allow storage on the vehicle year-round.


Interior Layout and Comfort

The Skypod Lite provides a well-proportioned sleeping area suitable for solo travellers or two adults.
Key interior features include:

  • High-density foam mattress (5 cm) with removable washable cover.

  • Side windows and skylight panel for natural light and airflow.

  • Integrated mesh on all openings for insect protection.

  • Pockets and gear loops for storing essentials.

The soft-shell structure provides natural insulation and flexibility, maintaining comfort in changing conditions.


Build and Materials

  • Base: Aluminium honeycomb composite panel for low weight and high rigidity.

  • Fabric: 260 gsm ripstop poly-cotton canvas, waterproof to 3000 mm.

  • Cover: Heavy-duty PVC with welded seams.

  • Poles: Anodised aluminium canopy supports.

Every component is corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for coastal touring or humid environments.


Vehicle Compatibility

The Skypod Lite is designed for hatchbacks, estates, small vans, and compact SUVs.
Its low weight and aerodynamic folded shape minimise impact on handling and fuel efficiency.
Closed height: 28 cm, allowing clearance under 2 m barriers.


Storage and Care

  • Dry fabric completely before closing.

  • Clean using mild soap and warm water; avoid strong detergents.

  • Lubricate ladder joints and hinges every 6 months.

  • When storing off the vehicle, stand vertically with minimal folding pressure on the canvas.


Summary

The Skypod Lite combines lightweight portability with dependable weather protection and quick setup.
Ideal for smaller vehicles or solo travellers, it delivers the practicality of a traditional roof tent in a streamlined, minimalist form.

Previous article Accessories and Compatibility for the Skypod Lite Roof Tent
Next article Living with the RoofBunk Adventurer – Real-World Use and Performance

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