The best place to park & set-up

Whether you’re parking up at a beach or on rugged terrain, getting things right from the start makes for a better night's sleep and an all-around smoother camping experience. Here's a handy guide to finding level ground and some must-know tips for setting up your hard shell rooftop tent. 1. Scout for Level Ground Level ground is your best friend when setting up camp. Not only will it keep you comfortable throughout the night, but it’ll also prevent your tent from putting unnecessary strain on its structure (and save you from rolling into your mate during the night). How to Find It Trust Your Gut (and Your Eyes): Take a moment to step out and visually assess the area. Find the flattest spot you can see. Most of the time, your gut instinct will lead you to the most level ground. Phone Apps: Believe it or not, apps like a leveling tool on your phone can help out! Just place it on your car's bonnet or roof rack to check if you're on an incline. Carry Leveling Blocks: If you can't find the perfect flat spot, stash some leveling blocks in your vehicle. You can place them under your tires to correct uneven ground. Plus, they pack down neatly for storage. 2. Positioning Your Vehicle Your rooftop tent is your sleeping fortress, but you want to make sure it’s set up for the best possible conditions. Look at the landscape and take into account: Direction of Wind: Make sure the tent shell faces into the wind - this will provide you with the most protection. Morning Sun: If you want a bit of warmth or are chasing a beautiful sunrise, face the tent’s entrance toward the east. But if you prefer a cool morning, keep the sun off your tent by facing it west. 3. Check for Overhead Obstacles Rooftop tents need clearance. Before you pop open that hard shell, scan the area for low-hanging branches, powerlines, or any other objects that could be in the way. There’s nothing worse than hearing a crunch when your tent makes contact with a rogue branch, or worse, getting your roof tangled in powerlines. 4. Watch the Angle If you can’t find a perfectly flat surface, try to park your vehicle with the tent facing downhill slightly toward the head. This way, any water that might sneak its way inside during heavy rain will drain away from the sleeping area. Also, it helps to elevate your feet slightly—better than sliding headfirst through the night! 5. Deploy the Ladder Properly The ladder is your access point, so get it right. Ensure it’s properly extended and securely locked into place. Check the footing so it’s stable and doesn’t sink into soft ground. A wobbly ladder at 3 a.m.? Not ideal. 6. Don’t Forget to Ventilate Even though the hard shell design of your rooftop tent provides top-notch protection, condensation can build up overnight. Make sure you open the windows slightly to allow airflow while maintaining warmth. Nobody likes waking up in a sauna with damp bedding, eh? 7. Pack it Down Dry (If Possible) When it's time to leave, try to fold your tent down when it’s dry. If the morning dew or rain soaks it, give it a quick wipe-down before collapsing the shell. Packing it down wet can lead to mold and nasty smells when you open it next. If you do have to pack it wet, pop it open at the next chance you get to let it air out. 8. Keep Essentials Close Once your tent is up, make sure to have your essentials—like a flashlight, water bottle, or even an emergency snack—within easy reach. Climbing up and down in the middle of the night to grab something is a pain, especially in the dark. Final Thoughts: Setting up your hard shell rooftop tent doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a bit of preparation. With these tips, you’ll not only enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep but also prolong the life of your tent and gear. The next time you’re out exploring, finding level ground and perfecting your setup will be second nature.

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Park & Set up

The best place to park & set-up

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