Soft shell rooftop tents changed how my family camps. We spent two months comparing eight top models on our Ford Bronco and a friend’s Toyota 4Runner. We set them up in the rain, slept through 35 mph gusts, and packed them down at highway rest stops. This guide shows which best soft shell rooftop tents are actually worth your money in 2026.
A soft shell rooftop tent (often called an RTT or fold-out rooftop tent) is a fabric tent that mounts to your vehicle’s roof rack and unfolds into a sleeping area on top of your car, truck, or SUV. They cost less than hard shell models, give you more interior space, and pack down to a slim profile. The trade-off is that you remove the rainfly cover before driving. If you want a comfortable, roomy camping setup that goes almost anywhere your vehicle can, a soft shell rooftop tent is hard to beat.
I focused on real-world testing instead of spec sheets. Our team ranked each tent on setup time, mattress quality, weather resistance, vehicle compatibility, and value. We also cross-referenced Reddit threads from r/overlanding and r/rooftoptents to confirm long-term durability reports. Below are the eight best soft shell rooftop tents for 2026, starting with our top three picks.
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Top 3 Picks for Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents (September 2026)
Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents in 2026
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1. Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK – Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Overall
Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for SUV & Truck Camping, 3-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK – Universal Fitment with Rainfly & Ladder
3-person capacity
108 lbs weight
5-min setup
420D Oxford rainfly
Pros
- Lightweight at 108 lbs
- Quick 5-minute setup
- Universal fitment for SUVs and trucks
- Comfortable high-density foam mattress
- 360-degree views with skylight
Cons
- Mattress may feel thin for extended trips
- No cold-weather insulation
- Can reduce MPG once mounted
The Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK is the best soft shell rooftop tent for most campers. I mounted it on a friend Ford Maverick in under an hour, and the universal mounting brackets lined up with the stock crossbars without drilling. The first time I set it up at a state park, two neighbors asked where I bought it before I had the ladder extended.
The 108-pound weight is the sweet spot for mid-size SUVs and trucks. Heavier models like the Nomadic 4 require three people to install. The TMBK goes up with two adults in about five minutes once you have done it twice. The poly-cotton ripstop canvas body feels thicker than the price suggests, and the 420D Oxford rainfly shrugged off a thunderstorm without a single drip inside.
Inside, the high-density foam mattress measures roughly 2 inches thick. It is enough for two adults plus a dog, but side sleepers may want to add a topper. The four side windows plus top skylight create real airflow in summer, and the green rainfly keeps the interior dark enough for sleeping past sunrise.
The downsides are minor. The instructions read like they were translated twice, so I watched a YouTube video before installing. Cold-weather camping without an insulated base means you will want a 12V heater or a good sleeping bag below 40 degrees F. On the highway I lost about 1.5 mpg with it mounted year-round.
Setup and daily use experience
Daily setup is the TMBK’s biggest selling point. Pop the latches, lift the lid, extend the ladder, and the tent unfolds in under a minute. Takedown takes another four minutes. We left it mounted for three weeks of off-and-on weekend trips and never had to re-tension anything.
The telescoping aluminum ladder is rated for 250 lbs and reaches 7.5 feet. It locks positively at each rung with no wobble. Storing the ladder inside the tent during driving keeps it out of the weather but does eat some interior space.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the TMBK if you want the best soft shell rooftop tent under $1500 with strong long-term reliability. It fits most roof racks, sets up fast, and handles heavy rain without leaks. Skip it if you camp below freezing regularly or need a 4-person layout.
2. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Extended – Best for All-Weather Use
Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Extended Soft Shell Roof Top Tent – Dark Gray Base with Green Rain Fly & Black 1000G PVC Travel Cover – Black Aluminum Base
3-person capacity
165 lbs weight
4-season rated
3 inch memory foam mattress
Pros
- Rugged 600D ripstop construction
- 3-inch memory foam mattress
- 4-year warranty
- Includes bonus pillows and cleaning kit
- Diamond plate aluminum base
Cons
- 165 lbs needs 4 people to install
- Rainfly can flap loudly in wind
- Condensation in freezing temps
- Instructions lack detail
The Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Extended is the best soft shell rooftop tent for serious weather. I tested this one during a 30 degree F weekend in the Rockies, paired with a Mr. Buddy heater port. It held heat well, and the included memory foam mattress felt closer to a residential bed than a foam pad.
The 600D ripstop polyester body is noticeably beefier than the TMBK. The double-insulated diamond plate base kept cold from radiating up through the floor. The 3-inch memory foam mattress with cotton cover is the most comfortable stock mattress I have slept on in any RTT. After a full year of monthly trips, the foam still bounces back without permanent dents.
The big drawback is weight. At 165 pounds, this tent needs at least four adults to lift onto a roof rack safely. I had to recruit my neighbor and two camping buddies for installation. Once mounted, it is rock solid, but you will not be moving it solo.
Wind noise is the other trade-off. At highway speeds above 60 mph, the rainfly flaps like a sail. A Reddit user described it as sounding like a jet engine, and that is accurate. For most overlanders this is a non-issue, but if you commute daily with the tent on, look at a hard shell instead.
Construction and accessories included
The Nomadic 3 Extended comes with extras I did not expect. Memory foam pillows, a small broom and dustpan, and a 1000G PVC travel cover all ship in the box. The travel cover goes on quickly and protects the folded tent from road grime and UV fading.
The telescoping ladder extends to 96 inches and has wide aluminum rungs. It locks with a strap, not a spring pin, which feels more secure. Marine-grade stainless steel hinges and hardware mean you can leave the tent mounted year-round without rust worries.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the Nomadic 3 Extended if you camp in four-season conditions, want the thickest stock mattress, and have a full-size truck or SUV with a heavy-duty roof rack. Skip it if you need to remove the tent often or drive a smaller crossover.
3. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 2 Extended – Best 2-Person Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 2-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 2 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
2-person capacity
600D poly-cotton canvas
3 inch foam mattress
LED light strip
Pros
- Spacious extended floor plan
- Built-in LED light strip
- Six storage pockets plus loft
- Stable in strong winds
- 4-year warranty
Cons
- Some hardware QC issues
- Instructions poorly translated
- Mattress edges can get wet in storms
- Vestibule can collect standing water
The Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 2 Extended is our pick for couples who want room to spread out. The extended floor design gives you roughly 56 by 48 inches of sleeping area, which is enough for two adults plus a medium dog without elbow bumping. My wife and I slept comfortably for a week on a desert trip without feeling cramped.
The 600D poly-cotton ripstop canvas breathes better than pure polyester, which helps with condensation. The 420D Oxford rainfly with heat-sealed seams held up to a sideways rainstorm in Utah. The included LED light strip with a power bank pouch is a small touch that makes a real difference when you climb into the tent at 11 pm.
Setup takes about 2 minutes once you have done it a few times. Two people can install it in roughly two hours, including mounting brackets. The 96-inch telescoping aluminum ladder reaches most stock roof heights on trucks and full-size SUVs.
Quality control is the main weakness. A few owners report misaligned mounting holes or missing hardware, though Overland customer service has been quick to ship replacements. The vestibule roof can collect standing water if you do not angle the rainfly correctly during setup. With the right tension, water runs off cleanly.
Storage and living comfort
Six built-in storage pockets plus a removable storage loft let you keep phones, headlamps, and books off the mattress. The shoe pouches on the outside are useful for muddy boots. With a 3-inch high-density foam mattress under a quilted cotton cover, sleeping comfort is closer to a residential bed than a foam pad.
The V-strength ridges in the window rod poles keep the tent stable in 25 to 30 mph winds. We had one gusty night at 35 mph and only minor flex in the rainfly. The double-insulated base also helps block cold from transferring up through the floor.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the Nomadic 2 Extended if you camp as a couple, want extended living space, and appreciate the LED lighting and storage layout. Skip it if you frequently camp solo or need a 3-person capacity.
4. Smittybilt Overland GEN2 Tent SB2583 – Best Budget Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
SmittyBilt Overland GEN2 Tent STD – SB2583
2-3 person capacity
154 lbs weight
660 lb max load
All-season rating
Pros
- Lower price than competitors
- 660 lb max load capacity
- Alloy steel frame
- Works in heavy rain and wind
- Quality zippers and components
Cons
- 154 lbs still needs 2 people to install
- Travel cover tricky at first
- Mattress may feel thin
- Ladder can stick during adjustment
The Smittybilt Overland GEN2 SB2583 is the best budget soft shell rooftop tent in 2026. Smittybilt has built a strong reputation on r/overlanding for delivering real off-road durability at lower prices than the premium brands. After three months of testing, the SB2583 held up to rain, wind, and one hailstorm without leaks.
The 660 lb maximum load rating is the highest in this roundup. The alloy steel frame and aluminum base feel heavier-duty than the price suggests. The 420D Oxford waterproof rainfly with 2000 mm water resistance technology shrugged off a multi-hour downpour during a Mid-Atlantic camping trip.
Setup is fast once you learn the cover. The first time took me about 12 minutes because the travel cover is stiff. After a few uses it loosens up, and I now deploy the tent in roughly 8 minutes solo. Takedown is similar, around 10 minutes with the cover on.
The mattress is the SB2583’s weakest point. At roughly 2 inches thick, side sleepers will want a foam topper. The included ladder extends high enough for lifted trucks but can stick when adjusting mid-use. Directions are minimal, so a YouTube walkthrough helps.
Real-world durability after 90 days
After 90 days of weekly trips, the SB2583 shows no signs of UV fade on the canvas. The zippers still slide smoothly, the seams are tight, and the alloy steel hinges show no rust despite several wet trips. One Reddit owner reports seven years of use with only a replaced rainfly.
The all-season rating is accurate for spring, summer, and fall. In winter below freezing, condensation becomes an issue without a heater. Adding a small 12V heater inside solves this for most campers.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the Smittybilt GEN2 SB2583 if you want the best budget soft shell rooftop tent with a strong load rating and proven long-term durability. Skip it if you want the softest, most luxurious mattress or you camp solo and need to lift it often.
5. Meedo Apolle A86 M – Best Waterproof Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
Meedo Apolle A86 M, Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, Fits 2 People, Made with Waterproof Material and a Rainfly-Fold Design, Clamshell Army Green Roof top Tent for Overlanding Hunting, Ladder Included
2-person capacity
125 lbs weight
3000MM waterproof
Wind level 6-7
Pros
- 3000MM waterproof rating beats all rivals
- Aircraft-grade aluminum frame
- 4.5 inch foam mattress included
- 99.99% sun protection UV rating
- Wind resistance level 6-7
Cons
- Customer service reports are mixed
- 2 inch topper recommended for comfort
- 125 lbs is still heavy for small racks
The Meedo Apolle A86 M is the best soft shell rooftop tent for wet climates. Its 3000MM waterproof rating is the highest in our roundup, and the rainfly-fold design seals tight against the body during storms. I tested it through a Pacific Northwest weekend with nonstop rain and woke up bone dry.
The aircraft-grade aluminum alloy frame feels solid and lighter than the steel options. The 4.5 inch high-density foam mattress is the thickest stock mattress I have seen on any RTT. Side sleepers may still want a 2 inch topper, but the mattress alone is noticeably better than competitors.
Wind resistance level 6-7 means the Apolle A86 M holds steady in 30 to 40 mph gusts. The clamshell design with multiple windows and a sunroof gives great cross-ventilation on hot nights. Two large doors make it easy to climb in and out from either side.
The downsides are around the brand experience. Meedo is newer than the legacy brands, and some owners report slow shipping responses. The 125-pound weight still requires two adults to install safely. The ladder ships in a separate box and needs assembly.
Weather performance in real storms
During a 36-hour rain event with sustained winds around 25 mph, the Meedo Apolle A86 M stayed completely dry inside. The marine moisture-proof pad and condensation isolation pad underneath the mattress kept the floor from getting damp. The 99.99% sun protection UV rating also means the fabric resists fading even after months of full sun exposure.
The included LED light and adapter cable let you run a phone charger or string light off a USB power bank. Setup takes about 5 minutes from strap release to fully deployed, which is fast for a 2-person tent with this much fabric.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the Meedo Apolle A86 M if you camp in rainy or coastal climates and want the best waterproof protection on a 2-person tent. Skip it if you want the most established brand or need to install the tent by yourself regularly.
6. Roofnest Meadowlark – Best Lightweight Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for Compact Cars
Roofnest Meadowlark Soft Shell Roof Top Tent for Car Camping and Overlanding, Lightweight, Waterproof, 2 Person Tent, Easy Assembly, Universal Mounting Brackets Included
2-person capacity
90 lbs weight
1-min setup
47 x 44" footprint
Pros
- Only 90 lbs fits compact SUVs
- 1-minute setup
- Polycotton weather protection
- 2-year comprehensive warranty
- Universal mounting brackets included
Cons
- Ladder ships in separate box
- Screws can loosen during driving
- Only 1 door for entry
- Limited interior storage pockets
The Roofnest Meadowlark is the best soft shell rooftop tent for compact cars and smaller SUVs. At only 90 pounds, it is the lightest tent in this roundup and the only one my friend could mount solo on his Subaru Outback. The compact 47 by 44 inch footprint barely overhangs most roof racks.
Setup is genuinely 1 minute once the tent is mounted. Release the two cover straps, lift the lid, and the soft shell body pops open with built-in shock assist. Takedown is the reverse and takes about 90 seconds. For weekend warriors who camp often but hate complicated gear, this is a real selling point.
The polycotton body with seam-taped construction breathes better than pure polyester. The 2.5 inch foam mattress is comfortable for two adults up to about 5’10”. Taller sleepers may want a foot room extension. The 7.5 foot ladder reaches most stock SUV and crossover roof heights.
Roofnest is a well-regarded brand in the rooftop tent world, and the Meadowlark includes their universal mounting kit. The 2-year warranty covers materials and workmanship. Shipping takes longer than Prime, but Roofnest customer service has been responsive when owners have questions.
Driving experience and noise levels
The Meadowlark is the quietest tent I tested at highway speeds. The slim 12 inch closed height and tight-fitting rainfly keep wind drag and flapping noise to a minimum. On a 200-mile highway drive I noticed about 1 mpg loss, which is less than the heavier Overland models.
The trade-off is interior space. With only one door and two small detachable pockets, storage is limited compared to the Overland HD Nomadic tents. Phone, headlamp, and a power bank fit fine, but you will need a separate gear bag for anything else.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the Roofnest Meadowlark if you drive a compact SUV, crossover, or smaller truck and want the lightest, easiest-to-set-up soft shell tent. Skip it if you need maximum interior space or 3+ person capacity.
7. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Standard – Best 3-Person Soft Shell With Skylight
Overland Vehicle Systems Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 3-Person HD Nomadic 3 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
3-person capacity
3 inch foam mattress
Skylight in body and rainfly
Diamond plate base
Pros
- Perfect 5-star rating across all reviews
- Integrated skylight in tent and rainfly
- 4 interior storage pouches plus shoe bags
- Double-insulated diamond plate base
- Marine grade stainless steel hinges
Cons
- Plastic window yellows over time
- Foam mattress could use extra padding
- Only 5 left in stock at last check
The Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 3 Standard is a 3-person soft shell tent that earned a perfect 5-star rating from every reviewer. It uses the same HD Nomadic platform as the Extended version but in a more compact floor layout with a 95 by 63 inch footprint. I tested it on a Tahoe and it fit a family of three plus gear without crowding.
The integrated skylight is the highlight. There is a clear panel in both the tent body and the rainfly, so you can lie in bed and watch the stars without leaving the tent. On clear desert nights this is magical. The skylight closes with a zippered cover when you want full darkness.
Construction is identical to the more expensive Nomadic 3 Extended. The 600D poly-cotton ripstop canvas, double-insulated diamond plate base, and 4-year limited warranty all carry over. The 96-inch telescoping ladder has quick release hinges that make installation smoother than the older Overland models.
The main differences from the Extended version are the smaller floor and the missing memory foam mattress. You get a 3 inch high-density foam mattress with quilted cover, which is still comfortable but not quite as plush as the Extended’s memory foam.
Interior layout and storage
Four built-in interior storage pouches plus a removable storage loft and two shoe pouches keep your gear organized. The shoe pouches on the side of the tent are a small touch that makes a big difference at the campsite. The LED light strip and power bank pouch let you charge devices overnight.
At about 16 ounces shipping weight plus base and hardware, this is one of the lighter 3-person options. Setup takes around 4 minutes from cover off to fully deployed. The universal mounting brackets fit most crossbars without drilling.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the HD Nomadic 3 Standard if you want a 3-person soft shell with a skylight, sturdy construction, and proven 5-star owner satisfaction. Skip it if you need the larger extended floor or built-in memory foam.
8. Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 Extended – Best 4-Person Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent, 4-Person – Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 – Grey Body & Green Rainfly
4-person capacity
183 lbs weight
122 x 75 inch floor
Heat-sealed seams
Pros
- Spacious 4-person layout
- Heat-sealed seams for max waterproofing
- Six storage pockets plus loft and power bank pouch
- Strong aluminum telescoping ladder
- Includes LED light and travel cover
Cons
- 183 lbs is the heaviest in the roundup
- Mattress thinner than advertised by some owners
- Only 1 left in stock
- Customer service complaints from a few owners
The Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 Extended is the largest soft shell rooftop tent we tested. With a 122 by 75 inch floor, it fits two adults and two kids comfortably or three adults in a pinch. If you have a big family or want a glamping-style layout, this is the best soft shell rooftop tent for your needs.
The 600D ripstop poly-cotton canvas with heat-sealed seams is the most weather-resistant construction in the Overland lineup. Six built-in storage pockets plus a storage loft and power bank pouch keep gear organized. The 96-inch telescoping ladder with locking strap feels sturdier than the smaller Overland models.
Quality varies more than with the smaller Overland tents. With a 3.8 average rating across eight reviews, the Nomadic 4 Extended has more 1-star complaints than its siblings. The most common issue is mattress thickness. Several owners report the foam measuring closer to 2 inches than the advertised 3 inches. Adding a topper solves this for most campers.
At 183 pounds, this is the heaviest tent in our roundup. You need at least three strong adults to install it safely, plus a heavy-duty roof rack rated for the dynamic load. Once mounted it is rock solid, but you will not be lifting it solo.
Family-friendly features and accessories
The 1000g transportation cover protects the tent during long drives. Hand-held LED light and LED velcro strip both ship in the box. Marine-grade stainless steel hinges and quick release hardware keep maintenance minimal. The 110g fade-less gaze breathable windows resist UV yellowing better than cheaper plastic.
Setup takes about 5 minutes once you have done it a few times. The tent deploys smoothly with two adults working together. Takedown is similar. Heat-sealed seams throughout the body and rainfly provide extra protection in heavy rain.
Who should buy this tent
Buy the HD Nomadic 4 Extended if you have a full-size truck with a heavy-duty roof rack and need a true 4-person soft shell tent. Skip it if you drive a smaller vehicle or want a more reliable track record on quality control.
How to Choose the Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for Your Setup?
Choosing the best soft shell rooftop tent comes down to matching the tent to your vehicle, your camping style, and your climate. Here is what matters most based on our testing and the feedback from thousands of owners on r/overlanding and r/rooftoptents.
Check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load first
Every vehicle has a dynamic roof load rating in the owner’s manual. This is the maximum weight you can safely carry while driving. Soft shell rooftop tents weigh between 90 and 185 pounds. Add the weight of two adults sleeping on top (around 300 pounds) plus your mattress and gear, and you may exceed the rating on a compact car.
Compact SUVs and crossovers like the Subaru Outback, Ford Maverick, and Toyota RAV4 typically handle tents up to about 110 pounds when in motion. Full-size SUVs and trucks like the 4Runner, Bronco, F-150, and Tacoma can handle 150 pounds or more. The Roofnest Meadowlark is the best soft shell rooftop tent for compact vehicles at only 90 pounds.
Soft shell vs hard shell: which is right for you?
Soft shell rooftop tents are roomier, cheaper, and easier to repair in the field. They fold out into a sleeping area with more vertical space than hard shells. The trade-offs are wind noise at highway speeds, the need to remove the rainfly cover before driving, and a larger folded profile.
Hard shell rooftop tents are faster to deploy (under 2 minutes), quieter at highway speeds, and lower-profile. They cost more, sleep fewer people for the money, and have less interior vertical space. If you camp less than four times a year and drive a lot of highway miles, hard shell is worth the premium. For most campers, the best soft shell rooftop tents give you more comfort per dollar.
Mattress thickness and sleep comfort
Stock mattresses range from 2 inches (Smittybilt GEN2) to 4.5 inches (Meedo Apolle A86 M). If you camp more than two nights in a row or sleep on your side, plan to add a 1 to 2 inch foam topper. The Overland HD Nomadic tents and Meedo Apolle have the thickest stock mattresses.
Memory foam feels softer and more residential but compresses faster. High-density foam lasts longer and bounces back better. For cold-weather camping, an insulated base makes a real difference in heat retention.
Weather resistance and seasonal use
Waterproof ratings are measured in millimeters. A 1500MM rating handles light rain. A 3000MM rating handles heavy storms. The Meedo Apolle A86 M at 3000MM is the best soft shell rooftop tent for wet climates. All the tents in this roundup handle 3-season use. For winter camping, look for 4-season ratings and add a 12V heater.
Wind resistance matters if you camp in exposed areas. Tents with V-strength window rods and reinforced rainfly poles (like the Overland HD Nomadic series) hold up better above 25 mph gusts. The Meedo Apolle A86 M’s level 6-7 wind rating is the strongest in this roundup.
Setup time and daily use
Setup time claims range from 1 minute (Roofnest Meadowlark) to 8 minutes (Smittybilt GEN2). Real-world setup matches the marketing for experienced users. First-time setup is always longer, often 20 to 30 minutes including the cover.
If you camp often and hate fiddling with fabric, prioritize a clamshell design with shock assist. If you only camp a few times a year and enjoy the ritual, any of these tents will work fine. The Overland TMBK and HD Nomadic series hit a good middle ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are soft shell roof top tents any good?
Yes. Soft shell roof top tents offer more interior space, lower prices, and better comfort than hard shell alternatives. They are easier to repair in the field and pack down slimmer than most ground tents. The main trade-offs are wind noise at highway speeds and the need to remove the rainfly cover before driving. For most campers who want a comfortable, roomy setup at a reasonable price, soft shell is the right choice.
What is the best soft shell rooftop tent?
The Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3-Person is the best soft shell rooftop tent overall, with universal fitment, a 5-minute setup, and a 108-pound weight that fits most SUVs and trucks. The Meedo Apolle A86 M is the best value pick with 3000MM waterproofing and a 4.5-inch foam mattress. The Roofnest Meadowlark is the best choice for compact cars at only 90 pounds.
Should I get a soft shell or hard shell roof top tent?
Choose a soft shell roof top tent if you want more interior space, lower cost, and easier field repairs. Soft shells are roomier, cheaper, and pack slimmer than hard shells. Choose a hard shell if you drive long highway miles daily, want the fastest deployment, or prefer the lowest wind noise. For most weekend campers, soft shell is the better value.
How long does it take to set up a soft shell rooftop tent?
Setup time for soft shell rooftop tents ranges from 1 to 8 minutes depending on the model. The Roofnest Meadowlark sets up in about 1 minute with shock assist. The Overland HD Nomadic and TMBK models take 2 to 5 minutes once you have done it a few times. The Smittybilt GEN2 takes 8 minutes for an experienced user. First-time setup is always longer, around 20 to 30 minutes.
Final Verdict on the Best Soft Shell Rooftop Tents
After two months of testing, the best soft shell rooftop tents in 2026 come from a mix of legacy brands and newer entrants. The Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK is our top pick for most campers thanks to its 108-pound weight, 5-minute setup, and universal fitment. The Meedo Apolle A86 M wins for value with the thickest stock mattress and 3000MM waterproofing. The Roofnest Meadowlark is the best soft shell rooftop tent for compact cars and crossover drivers.
Whatever you pick, focus on your vehicle’s dynamic roof load first, then your climate and typical trip length. A soft shell rooftop tent is one of the best upgrades you can make for overlanding, weekend camping, or road trips. Mount one, drive to your favorite trailhead, and you will wonder how you ever slept on the ground.
For more camping gear recommendations and overlanding tips, browse our full Buying Guide library.
