Whether you’re an avid camper or just someone who enjoys sleeping under the stars, having a roof top tent can take your outdoor adventures to the next level These tents are not only convenient but also provide a comfortable and elevated sleeping experience However, purchasing a pre-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive If you’re looking to save some money and are up for a challenge, consider building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
A hard shell roof top tent is a type of tent that is mounted on top of a vehicle, providing a sturdy, weatherproof shelter that can be set up and taken down quickly and easily These tents are typically made with a hard shell that protects the fabric tent inside, making them more durable and long-lasting than traditional soft shell roof top tents Building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a fun and rewarding project, allowing you to customize the design to fit your specific needs and preferences.
To get started on building your DIY hard shell roof top tent, you’ll need a few key supplies and tools Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own custom roof top tent:
1 Choose a suitable hard shell: The first step in building your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to choose a suitable hard shell that will serve as the base of your tent You can repurpose an old roof top cargo box or storage container, or you can purchase a new hard shell from a hardware or outdoor supply store Make sure the hard shell is sturdy, weatherproof, and large enough to comfortably accommodate your sleeping space.
2 Prepare the hard shell: Once you have your hard shell, you’ll need to prepare it for the tent assembly Measure and mark the center of the hard shell to determine where the tent opening will be Use a jigsaw or other cutting tool to carefully cut out the opening, making sure to leave enough space for the fabric tent to fit inside Sand down any rough edges or sharp corners to prevent injuries.
3 Construct the fabric tent: Next, you’ll need to construct the fabric tent that will fit inside the hard shell diy hard shell roof top tent. You can sew your own tent using durable, weather-resistant fabric or repurpose an old tent that you already have Make sure the tent is the right size and shape to fit inside the hard shell, with openings for windows and ventilation Attach the tent to the inside of the hard shell using sturdy adhesive or fasteners.
4 Install a mattress: To make your DIY hard shell roof top tent as comfortable as possible, consider installing a mattress or sleeping pad inside Choose a mattress that is lightweight, compact, and easy to store when not in use You can also add a waterproof mattress cover or fitted sheets for added comfort and protection.
5 Add accessories: Customize your DIY hard shell roof top tent with accessories such as LED lights, storage pockets, or a mosquito netting These extras can make your camping experience more convenient and enjoyable, allowing you to relax and unwind in your elevated sleeping space.
6 Mount the tent to your vehicle: Once your DIY hard shell roof top tent is fully assembled, you’ll need to mount it to the roof of your vehicle Use sturdy roof racks or mounting brackets to secure the tent in place, making sure it is stable and level Test the tent to ensure it opens and closes smoothly before hitting the road for your next camping trip.
Building a DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a challenging but rewarding project for outdoor enthusiasts With the right supplies, tools, and a little creativity, you can create a custom roof top tent that is both functional and stylish So why not try your hand at building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent and take your camping adventures to new heights?