Roof top tents have become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts and campers who seek a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the great outdoors. These tents are mounted on the roof of your vehicle, providing a comfortable and elevated sleeping area without the need to clear rocky or uneven ground. While the tent itself offers a cozy and convenient camping experience, adding a few key accessories can further enhance your outdoor adventures. In this article, we will explore some must-have roof top tent accessories that will take your overland experience to the next level.
1. **Awning**: One of the first accessories you should consider for your roof top tent is an awning. This provides additional protection from the sun and rain, creating a comfortable outdoor living space. You can set up chairs, tables, and other camping gear under the awning, giving you a shady spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to the elements.
2. **Annex Room**: If you want to create a more enclosed space under your roof top tent, an annex room is a great addition. This accessory attaches to the bottom of your tent, creating a separate room for changing, storage, or sleeping. It offers privacy and protection from insects and wildlife, allowing you to fully enjoy your camping experience without any worries.
3. **Lighting**: Proper lighting is crucial when camping, especially when setting up or taking down your roof top tent in the dark. LED light strips or portable lanterns can provide bright and efficient lighting around your tent, making tasks easier and safer. You can also create a cozy atmosphere by adding string lights or fairy lights to your tent, perfect for relaxing evenings under the stars.
4. **Roof Rack**: To maximize the storage capacity of your roof top tent, consider adding a roof rack to your vehicle. This provides additional space to carry extra gear such as bikes, kayaks, or additional storage boxes. A roof rack can also accommodate other accessories like a roof cargo box or a spare tire carrier, allowing you to customize your setup based on your needs.
5. **Ladder Extension**: If your roof top tent is mounted high on your vehicle, a ladder extension can make access easier and safer. This accessory adds extra length to your ladder, making it more comfortable to climb up and down. Some ladder extensions also come with a handrail for added stability, ensuring that you can easily and securely enter and exit your tent.
6. **Storage Bags**: Organizing and storing your camping gear is essential when living out of a roof top tent. Storage bags and pouches can help keep your items organized and easily accessible. Look for bags that are designed to hang inside your tent or attach to the outside, providing a convenient way to store clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other essentials.
7. **Mattress Topper**: While most roof top tents come with a mattress, adding a mattress topper can significantly improve your sleeping comfort. A memory foam or inflatable mattress topper can provide extra cushioning and support, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Choose a topper that fits the size of your tent mattress for a snug and comfortable fit.
8. **Shoe and Gear Bags**: Keeping your tent clean and organized is important when camping. Shoe and gear bags are essential accessories that can help you store dirty or wet shoes outside your tent, preventing dirt and debris from getting inside. These bags can also be used to store camping gear, hiking boots, or other items that you want to keep separate from your sleeping area.
9. **Portable Shower System**: If you enjoy spending extended periods in remote locations, a portable shower system is a useful accessory to have. These systems come with a water tank, pump, and shower head, allowing you to take a refreshing shower wherever you are. Some models can be mounted on your vehicle or set up as a standalone unit, providing a convenient way to stay clean and refreshed during your outdoor adventures.
10. **Cooking Accessories**: To enjoy hot meals while camping, consider adding cooking accessories to your roof top tent setup. A portable camping stove, cookware, and utensils can turn your tent into a cozy kitchen, allowing you to prepare delicious meals outdoors. Don’t forget to pack a cooler or a fridge to keep your food fresh and drinks cold during your adventures.
In conclusion, roof top tents offer a comfortable and elevated camping experience that allows you to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Adding a few key accessories to your setup can further enhance your camping experience, making it more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. Consider investing in awnings, annex rooms, lighting, and storage solutions to create a cozy and functional outdoor living space. With the right roof top tent accessories, you can turn your overland adventures into memorable experiences that you will cherish for years to come.