Roof racks play a crucial role in supporting roof top tents, enabling you to elevate your camping adventures. With various options available, finding the right roof rack for your roof top tent can be a daunting task. In this article, we will explore different roof rack options and provide sample racks for purchase, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences. All of the racks listed below are compatible with our RTT security mounts.
Crossbars with Clamps
One of the most common and versatile options is using crossbars with clamps. This setup involves installing sturdy crossbars onto the roof of your vehicle and using clamps like our RTT security mounts to attach the roof top tent to the crossbars. This straightforward method is compatible with a wide range of vehicles and provides a reliable foundation for your tent.
Sample Rack: Thule Evo WingBar Roof Rack
- Features: Aerodynamic design, durable construction, easy installation.
- Compatibility: Fits a wide range of vehicles with raised side rails or flush roof rails.
Full-Length Roof Racks
Full-length roof racks offer a robust and spacious platform that spans the entire roof of your vehicle. These racks typically feature integrated mounting points or tracks, allowing you to attach various accessories, including rooftop tents. Full-length racks provide added flexibility in positioning your tent and offer additional space for other gear, making them ideal for extended camping trips.
Sample Rack: Front Runner Slimline II Roof Rack
- Features: Lightweight, high-strength aluminum construction, multiple mounting options, accessory compatibility.
- Compatibility: Available for various vehicle makes and models, including SUVs and trucks.
Bed Racks for Pickup Trucks
Designed specifically for pickup trucks with open beds, bed racks create a raised platform above the truck bed. These heavy-duty racks can accommodate larger rooftop tents and are well-suited for off-road adventures. Bed racks provide an excellent solution for truck owners looking to maximize their camping capabilities.
Sample Rack: Yakima OverHaul HD Truck Bed Rack
- Features: Heavy-duty construction, adjustable height and width, accessory compatibility.
- Compatibility: Designed for pickup trucks with different bed lengths and sizes.
Gutter-Mounted Racks
Some older vehicles or specific models still feature rain gutters along the edges of the roof. Gutter-mounted racks utilize these gutters for attachment. With minimal installation requirements, these racks are relatively easy to set up and can work seamlessly with rooftop tents. However, they may have weight limitations compared to other options.
Sample Rack: Rhino-Rack Vortex Roof Rack
- Features: Strong and durable design, quick and easy installation, compatible with a wide range of accessories.
- Compatibility: Suitable for vehicles with rain gutters.
Factory Roof Rails
Many modern vehicles come equipped with factory-installed roof rails or tracks. These existing rails provide convenient attachment points for crossbars or specialized rooftop tent mounts. If your vehicle already has roof rails, you can often find compatible mounting systems that streamline the installation process.
Sample Rack: Rivian Cargo Crossbars
- Features: Sleek and versatile, no installation.
- Compatibility: Comes stock with Rivian. We just designed a new RTT security mount to fit the Rivian crossbars.
Considerations
When selecting a roof rack for your rooftop tent, consider the following factors:
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Weight Capacity: Ensure the rack can safely support the weight of your rooftop tent and any additional gear.
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Vehicle Compatibility: Verify that the roof rack is compatible with your vehicle's make, model, and roof configuration.
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Ease of Installation: Look for racks that offer simple installation procedures and come with comprehensive instructions.
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Durability: Choose racks made from robust materials such as aluminum or steel to ensure longevity and resistance to outdoor elements.
Investing in a suitable roof rack is essential for a safe and enjoyable rooftop tent experience. Consider the specific needs of your vehicle and camping requirements when selecting a roof rack. The sample racks provided here, such as the Thule Evo WingBar, Front Runner Slimline II, Yakima OverHaul HD, Rhino-Rack Vortex, offer reliable options for various vehicle types. All of these examples are compatible with our RTT security mounts to ensure your roof top tent is safe and secure. Remember to refer to the manufacturers' guidelines and specifications to ensure compatibility and safe usage.