How to Choose a Roof Rack for a Rooftop Tent | Cross Bars, Flat Racks, and Cargo Racks Compared

When installing a rooftop tent, choosing the right rack is crucial.
You can select based on what you prioritize, such as design, cost, and weight.

Racks come in different types and features, broadly categorized into crossbar type, flat type, cargo type, and rooftop tent type.
The advantages and disadvantages when combined with a rooftop tent also differ.
Also, it is important to consider the vehicle's load capacity, as a proper selection ensures safe use.
Below, we will explain the characteristics of each type, focusing on their compatibility with rooftop tents.
※The weight of the racks is an approximate guide.
The weight varies depending on the manufacturer and length.

＞Crossbar Type

Estimated Price / 50,000 - 130,000 yen
Estimated Weight / 2-2.5 kg per bar

• Features: A simple type where bars are attached to the roof.
• Compatibility with rooftop tents:
• By supporting with two or more bars, it distributes the weight of the rooftop tent, ensuring stability. (Two or more bars for Crow's Nest, three or more for Crow's Nest Family and Hawk's Nest)
• Being lightweight, it's less likely to exceed the vehicle's load capacity and easily maintains driving stability.
• Pros:
• Easy to install and smooth to remove when not in use.
• Cost-effective, suitable for those who prioritize budget.
• Cons:
• The loading surface is limited, so additional attachments are required if you want to load items other than the tent.
• With a simple design, it is suitable for those who do not prioritize aesthetic design.

＞Flat Type (Iron/Aluminum)

Estimated Price / 150,000 - 300,000 yen
Estimated Weight / Iron approx. 30 kg, Aluminum approx. 25 kg

• Features: A flat panel-shaped rack that covers the entire roof, available in iron and aluminum.
• Compatibility with rooftop tents:
• Supports the rooftop tent over a wide area, providing high stability and strong support for the vehicle's load capacity. Ideal for off-road or long-distance travel.
• There is ample space suitable for securing the tent, and installation is easy.
• Pros of Iron Type:
• Extremely strong and can accommodate heavy rooftop tents, providing peace of mind for use in tough environments.
• Durable for long-term use, recommended for those who frequently enjoy outdoor activities.
• Cons of Iron Type:
• Heavy, which can raise the vehicle's center of gravity, requiring consideration of load capacity.
• Prone to rust, so regular maintenance is required.
• Pros of Aluminum Type:
• Lightweight and does not significantly raise the vehicle's center of gravity, thus reducing impact on fuel efficiency.
• Rust-resistant and easy to maintain, allowing for long-term comfortable use.
• Cons of Aluminum Type:
• Slightly less strong compared to the iron type, so care is needed when loading particularly heavy items.
• Being lightweight, the price can be slightly higher.

>Cargo Type (Basket Type)

Estimated Price / 150,000-300,000 yen
Estimated Weight / 25-35 kg

• Features: A basket-shaped rack with raised sides to enclose luggage.
• Compatibility with rooftop tents:
• Cargo type is not very suitable for installing rooftop tents. This is because the raised edges on the sides can hit the bottom of the tent, potentially making the fixing unstable.
• Therefore, it is not suitable for direct attachment of a rooftop tent, but it can be useful for transporting camping gear and outdoor equipment during seasons when the tent is not in use.
• Pros:
• Easy to secure luggage, allowing for secure fastening with ropes or nets, providing peace of mind for camping and travel.
• During periods when the rooftop tent is not used, it serves as a versatile rack for carrying large amounts of luggage.
• Cons:
• Prone to wind resistance, which can reduce fuel efficiency during high-speed driving.
• For tent installation, the raised edges can be an obstruction, requiring adjustments and ingenuity.

When installing a rooftop tent, it is important to check the vehicle's load capacity and choose within reasonable limits. Especially when using a heavy rooftop tent, the flat type offers stability, and choosing between iron or aluminum allows for use tailored to your needs. For those prioritizing strength, the iron type is recommended, while for those prioritizing lightweight and ease of maintenance, the aluminum type is recommended.

For those who prioritize cost and want easy installation, a crossbar type with three or more bars is suitable. For those who want to carry a lot of luggage, the cargo type is convenient, but please note that it is not suitable for use with a rooftop tent.

We would be happy to assist you in choosing the optimal rack for your vehicle and outdoor style, so please feel free to contact us.