SUV tents are an increasingly popular alternative to rooftop tents, ground tents, and campers as a way to add camping options to your vehicle. With an SUV tent, you have the safety and comfort of your vehicle, plus the additional space and coverage of a ground tent.

Unlike rooftop tents, the SUV tent is designed to be set up around the rear of your open hatchback. Most of the tent sits on the ground, giving you extra covered space for sleeping. The back of your SUV adds a place to sit, sleep, or set things.

Why Do You Need an SUV Tent?

SUV tents are handy for more than just camping. If you have one handy, you can set up a shelter at a soccer game, an impromptu beach trip, or any other situation where a shelter is convenient.

Compared to rooftop tents, SUV tents are much easier to set up and offer more versatility than regular ground tents.

Essentially, an SUV tent converts your SUV, crossover, or minivan's rear cargo hold into an extra tent space with a vehicle sleeve that connects through the rear hatch. This provides an elevated place to sleep or sit, plus plenty of covered surface area and vertical space beneath the rest of the tent.

How To Choose an SUV Tent

When choosing an SUV tent, there are a few things to keep in mind that may influence your final decision. These considerations include:

• Compatibility with your specific vehicle
• Seasonal compatibility
• How weatherproof it is
• Material quality
• Ease of set up
• Ventilation

Most SUV tents have fairly broad compatibility. That is, they're designed to fit various SUVs, crossovers, and minivans. However, the size of the tent might matter. For example, a small tent might fit various compact to midsize SUVs, but may not work with a minivan or full-size SUV.

All tents are rated for certain seasons. The most common rating is 3 for spring, summer, and fall. These tents are fine for warm or temperate weather, but shouldn't be used in harsh cold. If you need a tent that can stand up to winter weather, then you'll have to look for a 4-season tent.

You should also check the weatherproofing of the tent. This is usually indicated by a number followed by "mm". For example, 2,000mm. This means that this amount of water would need to fall onto the tent before the waterproof coating would be breached.

Most tents are made from nylon, sturdy polyester, or some combination of the two. The floors are usually made of polyethylene for waterproofing. If you need to keep heavy rain out of your setup, then a rain fly or awning is necessary.

Ventilation is another consideration, especially if you intend to camp in warm weather. And who doesn't? That's what summer's for! Unfortunately, poor ventilation can quickly turn your tent into a sauna.

For SUV tents, it's a good idea to look for multiple full-size windows with mesh netting to keep out bugs. Side windows and a roof window work well to create a pleasant cross breeze.

SUV Tent Brands and Types

There are several brands of SUV tents and a few different types. What defines an SUV tent is the vehicle sleeve that's designed to fit into the rear hatch area of an SUV, crossover, or minivan.

The other part is a ground tent to expand your sleeping area. Awnings and sun shades are generally available separately to give more function and versatility to your tent setup.

Sportz Cove SUV Tent

The Sportz Cove SUV tent comes in two sizes. The S/M size is designed for compact and small SUVs and crossovers, while the M/L size is for larger midsize SUVs and full-size SUVs.

This tent features over 2' of awning for shade and shelter, plus a mesh screen door to protect you from bugs. The Sportz Cove tents are constructed of durable polyester for long-lasting reliability.

Backroadz SUV Tent

The Backroadz SUV tent includes a universal vehicle sleeve that fits all types of CUVs, SUVs, and minivans. The spacious 10' x 10' ground tent includes over 7' of headroom and can sleep up to five adults.

A large storm door protects you from the weather and adds privacy. The simple pole hub design allows for a simple setup in about 10 minutes.

Sportz SUV Tent with Screen Room

The Sportz SUV tent connects to the rear hatch area of your vehicle with a universal sleeve and adds a 6' x 7' screen room that allows bug-free dining or lounging space. A 10' x 10' ground tent provides a roomy sleeping area next to your vehicle.

The tent setup includes a 6' x 6' awning, a full rain fly, two large doors, three mesh windows, and two overhead skylights.

SUV Tent Installation Tips

Installing an SUV tent is relatively straightforward. Always follow the instructions that come with your specific tent, but in general, you can use the following tips:

1. Open the hatchback of your vehicle.

2. Attach the tent to the rear bumper, hubcaps, and/or wheel wells as indicated by the instructions. Put the rain fly over the top.

3. Set up your awning if you have one.

Most tents include a rain fly, but awnings are a good investment for more rain cover. It also allows you to leave your tent door open and get more ventilation while still being under cover.

SUV Tent Camping Tips

Aside from your tent, your SUV, and any extra gear, there are a few things to keep in mind when camping this way. The first is to park on flat ground and ensure that your emergency brake is set. Even if your SUV isn't on an incline, it's important to use the e-brake.

If you happen to camp on the beach, note the high-water mark and park well away from it. Don't leave your SUV's interior lights on to save your battery and avoid attracting bugs.

Action Car and Truck Accessories can help you get your camping adventure started with a selection of SUV tents, awnings, air mattresses, and other camping gear to complete your setup. Professional installation is offered at your local Action store as well.