If you are an avid camper or a traveler looking for a convenient and comfortable way to spend nights outdoors, a roof top tent might be the perfect solution for you Roof top tents are gaining popularity among camping enthusiasts due to their convenience and ease of use However, purchasing a commercial hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive
If you are a fan of DIY projects and are looking to save some money, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a fun and rewarding project In this article, we will guide you through the process of building your very own hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
To build a DIY hard shell roof top tent, you will need the following materials:
– Hard shell roof top tent shell (you can purchase this or repurpose an existing hard shell roof box)
– Roof rack or crossbars for your vehicle
– Marine-grade plywood or similar material for the base
– Foam insulation
– Fabric for the tent walls and roof
– Zipper or Velcro for the door
– Mattress or sleeping pad
– Hinges, latches, and other hardware for assembly
– Tools such as saw, drill, screwdriver, and sewing machine
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by cutting the marine-grade plywood to the size of the hard shell roof top tent shell This will serve as the base of your roof top tent Make sure to leave some space around the edges to allow for foam insulation.
Step 2: Insulate the Base
Cut the foam insulation to the size of the plywood base and secure it in place This will help keep the tent warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.
Step 3: Attach the Fabric Walls
Cut the fabric to the size of the walls and roof of the tent Sew the walls together and attach them to the base using Velcro or a zipper Make sure to leave room for windows if you want to add them.
Step 4: Attach the Door
Cut a piece of fabric for the door and attach it to the tent using a zipper or Velcro diy hard shell roof top tent. This will provide easy access to the tent.
Step 5: Add the Mattress
Place a mattress or sleeping pad inside the tent to make it comfortable for sleeping You can also add pillows and blankets for extra comfort.
Step 6: Install the Hardware
Attach hinges, latches, and other hardware to the tent to ensure it can be securely closed while driving and easily opened when needed.
Step 7: Test it Out
Once you have assembled your DIY hard shell roof top tent, make sure to test it out before heading out on your camping trip Set it up on your vehicle’s roof rack or crossbars and make sure it is secure and stable.
Benefits of a DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent has several benefits Firstly, it is a cost-effective way to enjoy the convenience and comfort of a roof top tent without breaking the bank Secondly, you can customize the tent to suit your specific needs and preferences Whether you want to add windows, a skylight, or extra storage compartments, the possibilities are endless when building your own roof top tent.
In addition, building a DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a fun and rewarding project It allows you to unleash your creativity and craftsmanship while enjoying the satisfaction of using something you built with your own hands.
Conclusion
A DIY hard shell roof top tent is a great option for camping enthusiasts who are looking for a convenient and comfortable way to spend nights outdoors By following the steps outlined in this article, you can build your very own hard shell roof top tent that is customized to your liking So roll up your sleeves, gather your materials, and start building your DIY hard shell roof top tent today!