Best SUV Tents

Tired of lugging camping gear in and out of your SUV every night? We've got the perfect solution for you. SUV tents!

Best SUV Tents
Photo by Scott Goodwill / Unsplash

Camping made easy!

Tired of lugging camping gear in and out of your SUV every night? We've got the perfect solution for you. These tents turn your car or SUV into a storage room, so all your stuff is right where you need it. No more hauling around heavy bags - just hop in and relax at camp!

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended outdoor adventure, these tents make life a little easier while on the go. Sleep close to nature without sacrificing modern comforts like charging ports and plenty of storage space (all within reach from inside your tent!). Plus, with room for up to 4 people, you can bring along friends who won't mind setting up their own tents anymore either!

Get ready to upgrade your camping experience - check out our recommendations for SUV tents now. In no time at all, you'll be able to enjoy all the great outdoors has to offer - minus any extra stress or packing hassle. Start exploring today!

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SUV Tents

SUV tents are an ideal option for anyone looking to take their family camping trips to a new level. The tent attaches to your rear tailgate or rear hatch, allowing you to access all your stored gear without having to leave your vehicle. Not only does it provide easy access, but it also includes a variety of features and benefits that make it an excellent choice for SUV camping while being very similar to truck bed tent camping.

For starters, SUV tents often come with gear lofts and gear pockets, allowing you to store supplies up off the ground and away from moisture or critters. Lantern hooks give you a place to hang lights so you can enjoy the evening without straining your eyes in the dark. To keep out the elements, the tent comes with doors and windows complete with no-see-um mesh that keeps out bugs while still providing ventilation. A rain fly is also included to make sure you stay dry when conditions turn wet.

The overall design of SUV tents makes them incredibly convenient and cost-effective solutions for campers on the go. If your other option is car camping or a freestanding tent with no additional space, these could be viable options as there is no need for a roof rack. They provide quick and easy access to all your stored items while keeping them safe from pests and inclement weather conditions. Plus, their lightweight construction makes them simple to transport and set up wherever your journey takes you. The best SUV tent is the one that fits your needs the best.

Why an SUV Tent Over a Traditional Tent

Are you looking for a comfortable camping experience? An SUV tent could be the perfect solution! Here are some of the benefits of buying an SUV tent:

  • You have more space than traditional tents, so it's great for families or groups.
  • An SUV tent is designed to fit your vehicle perfectly, making setup and breakdown a breeze.
  • SUV tents often come with built-in features like windows, vents, and rain flies which can give extra protection from the elements.
  • You don’t have to carry your tent around - just set it up outside your car and you’re ready to go!
  • Most models are designed for easy transportation and storage when not in use.
  • With an SUV tent, there's no need to worry about finding level ground or dealing with difficult stakes (depending on the model).

Overall, an SUV tent is a great way to enjoy camping without having to deal with all the hassle that comes with traditional tents. So if you're looking for a comfortable camping experience that is quick and easy to set up, then an SUV tent could be just what you need!

How We Pick'em

You want to go camping, but you're not sure where to start.

It's hard enough picking out the right tent, but then you have to worry about finding a place to set it up and pull everything out of your vehicle only to worry if it is safe while you're gone.

Outdoor Verified has you covered. We take all of the guesswork out of camping with an SUV tent model by providing helpful tips and product suggestions for your next outdoor adventure. Plus, our guide to the best SUV tent can provide a viable option when space in the campsites is at a premium.

The Reviews

Best Overall SUV Tent

Napier Outdoors Family Tents Sportz

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What we like

Napier Outdoors Sportz SUV Tent a built to make adventuring with your loved ones a breeze. This high-quality tent is made by the company that innovated tents attached to vehicles so it's not surprising that it sets up in just 10 minutes –thanks to its hub and combination of fiberglass poles-- and the Sportz dome is made of durable polyester taffeta and polyethylene to ensure year-round protection from the elements.

It connects to your SUV, CUV, or Minivan which means more space for your family, friends, or even your furry companions in the tent itself! Spend lazy mornings sipping coffee under the extendable awning in peaceful natural surroundings, and spend starry evenings gathering together around stories by the campfire. The Sportz SUV Tent by Napier Outdoors provides an easy and cozy home away from home for all your outdoor adventures with plenty of room for you and yours.

More details

This Sportz SUV tent spreads out in a spacious 9’ x 9’ ground tent complete with 7' headroom, giving you more than enough room with sleeping space both for yourself and any number of campers or hikers. To take things up a notch, simply remove the vehicle sleeve to transform this tent into a traditional ground tent.

The Sportz dome even comes with a full rainfly with taped seams, so you can stay dry and comfortable even in wet weather. The Napier Outdoors Family Tents Sportz is perfect for any camper, hiker, or backpacker looking for an unparalleled outdoor experience while topping our list as the best SUV tent.

Concerns

  • Leaks over Vehicle
  • Not a quick setup

Best Value SUV Tent

Napier Backroadz SUV Tent

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What we like

It's no surprise that is brand makes the list more than once since they do make some of the best SUV tent models and rooftop tents out there...The Napier Backroadz SUV Tent is the perfect companion for the outdoor enthusiast. Same quality as the above family tent but with a fewer amenities.

With its universal sleeve, the tent quickly attaches to any CUV, SUV, or Minivan so you can take the adventure with you. With this SUV tent, enjoy enhanced protection from the elements with a rainfly included with your purchase. Keep all of your gear organized during your trip with a convenient gear loft and make sure that the journey never ends. The Napier Backroadz SUV Tent is an experience waiting to happen!

More details

Easily transportable with an innovative universal vehicle sleeve that works with most SUVs and minivans, this tent packs a big punch with ample space and features. With its 9' x 9' parking pad and 4 - 5 plus 2 (in the vehicle) person capacity, there's enough room for all your outdoor equipment.

And with three windows and two gear pockets in the tent walls, you will stay organized while keeping cool during hot weather. Thanks to the built-in lantern holder, you can turn down the lights while turning up the fun.

Concerns

  • Need help to assemble
  • Not watertight

Best For Van Camping

Brunner Bustent Comet Rear Tent

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What we like

The Brunner Bustent Comet Tent is perfect for VW T5/T6 owners who need a little extra space for their journeys. Thanks to its frameless construction, this SUV tent is incredibly easy to fit and takes up very little room when stored away. You can keep your belongings safe and secure in the rear or take the opportunity to cook and sleep comfortably.

And with two large front doors providing maximum ventilation, you’ll have a pleasant room climate all the time! Setting up this tent is quick and easy – simply place it over your tailgate and you’re good to go. This makes it ideal for hikers, campers, backpackers, as well as families looking to enjoy more freedom while on holiday. The Brunner Bustent Comet SUV Tent may just be a great way to explore the outdoors knowing that you have everything you need right there with you.

More details

With dimensions of 78.74"L x 78.74"W x 80.71"H and a lightweight weight at just 5.1 kg, you'll be able to haul it with ease. Designed to last through all types of weather, the Comet Rear Tent is built with robust fabric material and fiberglass poles that provide maximum durability against temperatures and windy conditions.

The large two-person sleeping area offers plenty of space to spread out and relax after a long day spent exploring nature. The mosquito net window along with adjustable air vents makes sure you enjoy plenty of fresh air without allowing insects inside while the waterproof seams make sure that rain never becomes an issue!

The cleverly designed tunnel shape improves stability against cross winds as well as provides flexible gear lofts along its sides; perfect for storing excess camping gear or personal items during your trip in order to free up more space for comfortable sleeping arrangements or leisurely activities indoors. All Brunner Bustent products come complete with pegs and spare rope for easy installation-offering a convenient setup within minutes so that you can maximize time spent on those meaningful outdoor experiences with your friends and family.

Concerns

  • The tent has no in-built tent floor.

Most Popular

Rightline Gear 6-Person SUV Tent

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What we like

Rightline Gear’s 6-Person SUV Tent is the perfect companion for adventurers, backpackers, and families who enjoy the outdoor exploration. Made from heavy-duty waterproof fabric and featuring tape sealed seams construction, this tent ensures you’ll stay dry no matter what weather comes your way. The rain fly also has four corner pockets that you can use to store small items safely in case of unexpected showers of rain or snow. Plus it comes equipped with a water-resistant floor so you and your group can sleep in peace, no matter where you lay your head.

This tent can be attached to an SUV, van, or pickup truck for added protection from the elements during setup, as well as greater privacy to ensure you all get a good night’s rest before heading out into the wild again. You can easily access the overhead cargo area of your vehicle through the rear door that unzips completely thanks to its cleverly designed starlight entry system with two-way zippers that glow in the dark. It features mesh windows throughout including the front door, so while you’re snuggled up in the warmth of your sleeping bag, you can still keep an eye on the stars shining in the pitch-black night sky.

The Rightline Gear 6-Person SUV Tent is packed with features that make camping easier, safer, and more enjoyable for families big and small. With its lightweight design and quick setup time, this customized shelter allows backpackers of all levels hours more time exploring nature than before — no more fussing around with tricky poles or awkward stakes to secure the tent. What's more, there are even interior pockets for convenient storage options and reflective guy lines around the edge so they will never be lost while setting up at night time. So when life takes you seeking adventure outdoors next time just remember to take along this robust lifeline between indoor humanity and wild freedom: Rightline Gear 6-Person SUV Tent.

More details

This spacious yet lightweight tent comfortably sleeps up to four adults and two adults in the vehicle cargo area. Those seeking privacy will appreciate the no-see-um mesh windows and doors with storm covers that can be closed for added protection against outdoor elements and opened for an eating area or screen room. Plus, feel free to leave the storm covers open while still keeping bugs out to enjoy some fresh air or light.

Seamlessly transitioning from inside to outside, this tent is made for convenience. It’s compatible with a rear hatch and a rear barn door, so you can easily tie up the vehicle sleeve with dowels and loop fasteners to disconnect your car or RV. Offering comfort and ease of use, this 6-Person SUV Tent provides a perfect camping experience for families or groups of friends seeking adventure in nature.

Concerns

  • Floor not sturdy material
  • Not a quick setup
  • Can accumulate water at the vehicle tunnel connection

Best SUV Tailgate Awning Tent

SUV Tailgate Tent with Awning

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What we like

The SUV Tent with Awning is the perfect affordable addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s recreational vehicle. Made from high-quality 190T polyester tear-resistant fabric, this car tent is coated in silver PU2000 that effectively blocks out sunlight and harmful UV rays – giving you everything you need for a better rest when traveling with your family or friends.

Whether you are looking to set up at the beach by day and sleep in a tent by night, take part in your next sporting event, host an outdoor party at a picnic area, or simply enjoy nature while on vacation. This works well for an example of hatchback tents while car camping as well since the tent attaches directly to the rear hatch. For easy setup anywhere outdoors along with full protection against rain and wind – make the most out of your next adventure with the SUV Tent with an awning with a smaller footprint than even the best tent.

More details

And set-up couldn’t be easier – simply pop open easily and secure with four wind ropes and eight ground stakes to prevent gusts and sudden storms from ruining your trip. If you want to get extra coverage, buy some additional poles for an awning room or a full-sized awning that can accommodate walking underneath.

Best of all, when you’re ready to head home, the SUV Tent folds up easily into its own lightweight carrying bag, so transporting it is effortless.

Concerns

  • A bit tricky to set up the first time
  • Unclear instructions
  • Zippers only have a tab on the outside

Best Rain Fly SUV Shade

SJK Roadhouse Tarp

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What we like

Sometimes you just need some shade! The SJK Roadhouse Tarp is the best tarp for your next adventure. Whether you are shooting, camping, or going off-road, this tarp will provide shelter to keep you safe and comfortable. It is made with durable 68D polyester so it will hold up against the elements wherever your adventures may take you.

The unique attachment system is designed to easily connect to most Jeeps, SUVs, or trucks for ultimate protection on the go. In addition to the tarp setup, it includes two heavy-duty 8 feet tall steel poles, a carry bag, and 8 super-duty 10" steel stakes for an easy setup wherever you roam. If you are looking for a reliable shelter option that won't let you down while experiencing nature this is a perfect solution.

More details

This innovative tarp design gives hikers, campers, backpackers, and families three different options for tarp set-up. From an “A-frame” set up with tent poles and a vehicle to a dual pole awning "room" configuration with your car - or use two poles for an “A-frame” without your vehicle - whichever you choose, your experience will be enjoyable and guaranteed with our limited lifetime warranty.

Best of all, its extra large size allows you to fit just about anything underneath—perfect for families looking to camp together! No matter what kind of terrain you are on, the SJK Roadhouse tarp ensures a level platform so you can relax without having to worry about uneven grounds.

Concerns

  • Not compatible with high winds (can you say sail?)
  • Not made in the USA

FAQs For SUV Tents

You're excited about your next camping trip, but don't know where to start. What exactly are SUV tents anyway?

Camping can be a lot of fun, but it's also important to be prepared. If you're not sure whether to bring a freestanding tent, or rooftop tent, or how to set up camp, you could be in for a frustrating experience.

Outdoor Verified is here to help. We have years of experience camping and have done the research so that you don't have to. We have put together this detailed product information along with a list of FAQs that will answer all of your questions and help you make the best decisions for your next outdoor adventure.

Do the best SUV tents leak?

Despite being made from the same fabric used to make regular camping tents, many people worry about the potential for leaks when using an SUV Tent. Well, rest assured that technically these tents don't leak any more than a regular freestanding tent would. The best tent will struggle in a downpour. However, there is one area you need to be mindful of - the attachment opening. If placed too close to the ground it can allow rainwater to seep in and cause some unwanted surprises. Not a problem if you are only using the tent as a screen room. Fortunately, the best SUV tents have been designed with this issue in mind and feature adjustable heights so you can keep the opening elevated and out of harm's way

Why use a tailgate tent?

Tailgate tents have become increasingly popular and offer numerous benefits to outdoor events. Most SUV tents are versatile pieces of outdoor equipment that provide much-needed shelter from the sun, rain, wind, bugs, and other elements so you can enjoy your event without worrying about weather conditions. They also provide a place to store food, drinks, and other items like coolers and chairs. Opposed to a rooftop tent, the best SUV tent will cost much less than rooftop tents cost while being on par with freestanding tents. With a tailgate tent, you can spend more time enjoying whatever activity you are participating in with your friends or family rather than worrying about the elements.

What are some common features of the average tent for SUVs?

An SUV tent is great for an overnight camping trip because they do not require a roof rack, comes with tent poles, attach to your rear hatch, is not as expensive as a rooftop tent, and can often operate as a freestanding tent so you can drive away to activities without having to break down the tent. Most SUV tents are more than 5 feet tall simply by the way they attach to the vehicle. Some have mesh in each window and door so they can act as a front screen room to sit and eat in. Finding the best SUV tent can be challenging among all the SUV tent options because they offer so many different varieties that you will have to do research to find the best SUV tent for you.

Is it better to car camping or SUV camping?

Car or SUV camping is essentially the same. The difference comes in when using SUV tents. The benefit of having an additional tent stand outside your vehicle is obvious based on the space provided. You have the option to use the tent as a storage place secure from the weather or use the space in your vehicle accessible storage. If you only have your car, you have to have both yourself and your gear inside while strictly car camping. Even the best tent cannot offer that kind of versatility.

Can you use a tent as a screen room attached to your vehicle?

Having a screen room may not be the place you want to sleep since there won't be much wind resistance by design. There are many tents that have a front screen room though. What the screen room does is leave more than enough room inside the vehicle as sleeping space while your gear is in the awning room. A rooftop tent may even have a screen room, or awning room attachment that will either be included or for sale separately.

Final Thoughts

All in all, these SUV tents are a great addition to your camping gear and provide an efficient way of utilizing the room inside your SUV for storage. With ample interior space, it can fit a ton of camping and outdoor equipment. Setting up and dismantling the tents is quick and easy with each product's instructions to help guide you in the process. Though, there is always YouTube...

Each tent also comes with the necessary straps to ensure that it is secure during windy nights while most offer the option of a front screen room outside your vehicle if that is all you want. By using our featured products, you can go on unforgettable camping trips with friends and family while having the convenience of your car at your side! So what are you waiting for? Tap on the buttons below the products to check current pricing and availability - give yourself the best camping experience ever!

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~ Ron