Roof Tents vs Traditional Tents: Which is Better for Your Camping Style?
Have you ever been torn between the exciting new rooftop tent options and your trusty ground tent? You’re not alone! More campers are asking themselves this question as rooftop tents become increasingly popular.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, choosing the right accommodation makes all the difference.
We’ll explain the key differences between TentBox tents vs traditional tents, so you can decide which one best suits your camping style.
The motive behind this post is to help you make the best choice for your next outdoor adventure.
What is a Roof Tent?
A Roof Tent is a high-quality tent that attaches to your vehicle’s roof rack. There are various options available to suit different travel styles and group sizes, ranging from lightweight setups to more rugged designs built for extended trips. Road trippers, overlanders, and weekenders love them for the freedom they offer. With many choices on the market, roof tents make it easy to turn almost any vehicle into a comfortable, mobile basecamp.
Just park up, and you’ll be ready for the night! In recent years, they have become increasingly popular in the British camping scene, and their popularity is also growing in the USA and Europe.
The highlight? They turn any suitable vehicle into a mini campervan without you having to pay the high price of a full conversion.
What is a Traditional Tent?
Most of us grew up with traditional tents. They range from small one-person tents for backpacking to large family tents with separate rooms.
Pop-up tents can be erected in seconds, while others take longer to set up. Hikers, festival goers, family campers, and budget travellers rely on them because they are so versatile and can be affordable.
The beauty of traditional tents lies in their endless variety – there is literally one for every camper and every situation. They can be pitched anywhere that is flat enough, without the need for a vehicle, making them a great flexible camping option.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Roof Tents vs Traditional Tents
Now, let’s get into the details of how these two camping options compare to each other.
We’ve broken them down by the features that matter most when it comes to where you want to rest your head under the stars. Here’s how the two compare when it comes to the most important factors that make up a camping vacation.
Set-up and convenience
The Roof Tent is argued by many the quickest to set up. Most models can be pitched in just a few seconds, using simple latches, gas-struts or 12v pumps. Many include a built-in mattress, so you don’t have to set up separate bedding either.
Conventional tents vary greatly – from simple and quick pop-ups to more complex set-ups for larger models. You’ll need to find a flat, dry floor, hammer in pegs, and set up your sleeping area separately. While this offers flexibility in where and how you camp, it can take more time, which may be a dealbreaker for some after a long drive or in poor weather. Roof tents offer a quicker, elevated alternative, with many models ready to sleep in within minutes. Both options have their place, depending on your trip style and priorities.
Comfort and sleeping experience
Sleeping in a roof tent can feel more like a proper bed than traditional camping for some. You lie elevated above the ground, far away from moisture, stones, and insects. Most include a built-in foam mattress, offering real comfort without the need for extra gear.
The raised design also helps with air circulation and typically results in less condensation. On the other hand, traditional tents bring you closer to nature, which some campers love, especially those afraid of heights.
Ground tents can offer more interior space, especially in larger models, making them a great choice for larger families or longer stays.
Weather resistance and durability
Roof tents from brands like TentBox and Dometic are well-suited to challenging weather conditions, including typical British rain and wind. Their elevated position means you don’t have to worry about flooding, and are built with high-quality materials that stand up well to strong winds and heavy rain. Hard shell designs also help insulate against the cold and protect the fabric when closed during transit.
Conventional tents vary in their weather performance depending on price, design, and how they’re pitched. Entry-level models may struggle in severe weather, while premium ground tents can be highly capable in storms. Being pitched on the ground makes them more susceptible to pooling water and dampness, but with good site selection and careful setup, a well-pitched traditional tent in a sheltered spot can offer excellent protection and comfort – even in tough conditions.
Portability and storage
Traditional tents have the advantage of being easy to transport, they can be packed down small enough to fit in a backpack or the boot of a car. You can carry them to remote locations that aren’t accessible by vehicle, making them ideal for wild camping or hiking trips.
Roof tents, on the other hand, stay mounted to your vehicle unless removed – a process that usually requires simple tools and a bit of your time. This means you’ll always be carrying the extra weight and height while driving, which can slightly impact fuel consumption and may limit access to low-clearance areas like some car parks or garages if your vehicle is already pretty close to these height restrictions.
When not in use, ground tents are easy to store in cupboards or under beds, while roof tents require more space if you don’t want to keep it on your vehicle’s roof when not in use. Typically a garage, or sturdy stand to keep them safely off the ground. It’s a trade-off between grab-and-go simplicity and ready-to-camp convenience.
Cost and long-term investment
Roof tents typically require a higher initial investment, often starting around £500 and reaching £3,000 or more depending on features and build quality. However, their durability and low maintenance needs often translate into years of reliable use, making them a smart long-term option for regular campers.
Traditional tents cover a much broader price range, from as little as £30 for a basic festival tent to £1,000+ for high-spec expedition models. For frequent weekend adventurers, a roof tent can prove more economical over time, especially when factoring in convenience and longevity. That said, traditional tents may be better suited for those who camp for longer periods at a time, offering more living space, flexibility in setup, and the ability to leave your vehicle free for day trips.
Suitability for different camping styles
Your choice should be based on your camping style and preferences. Roof tents are ideal for road trips, overland adventures, and journeys with multiple stops, where quick setup and pack-down make a big difference. They allow you to camp without unpacking and repacking your gear each night, giving you more time to enjoy your destination instead of setting up camp.
Traditional ground tents, on the other hand, are suited to a range of activities from festival weekends to remote backpacking trips. They let you camp anywhere you can hike to, and are available in various sizes to suit solo travellers, couples, or large families. Ground tents often offer more usable living space and easier nighttime access, particularly helpful for families with very young children or pets.
Who Should Choose a Roof Tent?
If you’re someone who enjoys road trips, moves between multiple locations, or simply prefers a quick and easy setup, a roof tent might be a great fit. It’s especially useful for solo travellers, couples, or weekend campers who want a no-fuss camping experience with everything ready to go as soon as they park.
Roof tents offer the convenience of an elevated sleeping area and built-in mattress, making them ideal for those who prioritise efficiency. They’re also well-suited to year-round use and unpredictable weather, thanks to their sturdy construction and off-ground design.
That said, it’s all about your style of adventure. Roof tents shine when mobility and speed matter most.
Who Should Stick With a Traditional Tent?
For many campers, traditional ground tents remain the most practical and versatile option. They’re ideal for hiking trips in remote areas, backpacking, wild camping, and group outings where space and mobility are key.
Families often appreciate the extra room and simpler access that ground tents provide, especially with very young children or pets. For festival-goers, the ability to carry your gear in by hand, is a major advantage.
With a wide range of sizes and price points available, traditional tents continue to be a reliable favourite for all kinds of adventures.
Final Verdict
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, both roof tents and traditional tents have their own strengths. Roof tents offer genuine advantages for regular road travellers who prioritise comfort, speed, and convenience, making them a great choice for frequent getaways or multi-stop adventures.
Traditional tents, meanwhile, excel in versatility, affordability, and the ability to reach remote locations on foot, places where vehicles simply can’t go. They’re available in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit everything from solo treks to large family holidays.
In fact, many experienced campers choose to own both, switching between them depending on the trip. The best choice for you depends on how, where, and how often you camp, and which features matter most for your style of adventure.
If you’re ready to upgrade your camping setup, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re interested in the convenience of a TentBox or Dometic roof tent, or the versatility of a traditional ground tent, you’ll find a great option in our collection. Browse our full range to discover the best fit for your next adventure, whatever your camping style.