Best roof tent – TentBox Cargo, Lite and Classic models
Best roof tent – TentBox Cargo, Lite and Classic models

How to choose the best roof tent for your adventures

Last update by Sarah
Oct 26, 2024

Whether you’re an experienced explorer, a weekend wanderer or brand new to camping – we’ve got a TentBox for you. With five models to choose from, each with their own distinctive features, it can be tricky to know which is the best roof tent for your needs.

So let’s dive into the key features of each model, and find out what makes them unique.

Choosing the best roof tent

TentBox GO 

Stripped back & lightweight

Weighing in at just 33kg, the GO is the most versatile roof tent that fits on pretty much any vehicle, even smaller cars and those with lower roof weight limits.

Despite its compact size, it comfortably sleeps 2 people, with a stretched-fabric bed and the option of an additional self-inflating mattress. Setting up in just 60 seconds with its simple push-and-click system, it’s perfect for adventurers seeking a simple, no-fuss roof tent.

The GO is the only model that arrives flat-packed in a smaller box, with initial assembly taking around an hour. This gives you the option to either leave it assembled when not in use, or disassemble it and store it in the convenient storage bag – perfect for if you have limited space.

  • Weight: 33kg
  • Setup time: 60 seconds
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Price: £995

Shop TentBox GO

Choosing the best roof tent TentBox GO

TentBox Lite 2.0 

A great all-rounder

The simple, fold-out design of the Lite models makes setting up quick and easy – turning your car into a camper in less than 5 minutes. The Lite 2.0 is a great all-rounder that fits on almost any car. There’s plenty of room inside to sleep 2 adults, with a comfy, dual-layer foam mattress the size of a standard double bed.

With a canvas roof and angled sides, it’s similar to a traditional ground tent. But wherever you choose to camp for the night, you can experience 360 views of your surroundings with large windows on all sides, plus two skylights for stargazing.

  • Weight: 50kg
  • Setup time: 5 minutes
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Price: £1,295

Shop Lite 2.0 in Slate, Forest and Sunset.

Choosing the best roof tent – TentBox Lite 2.0

TentBox Lite XL 

More space for sharing

The Lite XL is our largest TentBox in the range. With a super king mattress that sleeps 4 adults comfortably, it’s ideal for families, people with pets, or those who simply enjoy the extra space.

Despite its large size when folded out, the Lite XL has a compact design when packed away, and easily fits on most vehicles. And you still get those amazing views, and plenty of ventilation, with a double skylight and large all-around windows.

  • Weight: 62kg
  • Setup time: 5 minutes
  • Sleeps: 4
  • Price: £1,895

Shop Lite XL in Slate, Forest and Sunset.

Choosing the best roof tent – TentBox Lite XL

TentBox Classic 2.0 

Feels like a bedroom

Based on the original TentBox design, the Classic 2.0 is the best roof tent for ease and simplicity. Featuring the iconic boxy shape, it feels more like a bedroom than a tent with straight sides and a hard, insulated roof.

The matte black outer shell features an aerodynamic and angular design that looks good on any vehicle. With an automatic gas-strut mechanism, it pops open in just 60 seconds – you simply undo the latches, push, and let the gas struts do the rest.

The Classic comes with the comfortable, dual-layer foam mattress that sleeps two adults. One key advantage of the Classic 2.0 is that there's room inside to store your sleeping bag and pillows when closed. So as soon as you pop it open, you’re set up and ready to sleep.

  • Weight: 67kg
  • Setup time: 60 seconds
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Price: £2,195

Shop Classic 2.0 in Midnight, Forest or Sunset.

Choosing the best roof tent – TentBox Classic 2.0

TentBox Cargo 2.0 

Fastest to open

Made from a solid aluminium exoskeleton, with honeycomb aluminium panels – the Cargo 2.0 is the most rugged TentBox in the range.

It’s also the fastest to set up, with a hinged design and gas struts that take just 30 seconds to open. Just unbuckle the latches at the rear, and push. You can even do it with one hand.

Much like the Classic, you can also fit your bedding inside to make setting up even easier. And again, there’s room to comfortably sleep two on the foam mattress.

The key advantage of the Cargo, other than the speed of setup, is the accessory channels that run around the exterior shell. Not only can you use these to attach additional accessories, such as our Side Awning, but you can also attach our Cargo Roof Bars, allowing you to carry extra gear on top – like surfboards, bikes, or more storage.

  • Weight: 72kg
  • Setup time: 30 seconds
  • Sleeps: 2
  • Price: £2,595

Shop Cargo 2.0 in Midnight, Forest or SunsetWe also have the special edition Land Rover colourway.

Choosing the best roof tent – Cargo 2.0

Choosing the right TentBox

Whichever TentBox model you choose, you'll be getting one of the best roof tents on the market, designed to our extremely high standards. Featuring high-performance materials including YKK zips and 280gsm rip-stop canvas, with a 3000mm hydrostatic head rating.

In fact, we back the quality of our products so much that we’re able to offer an industry-leading 5-year warranty at no additional cost. To explore more of the specifics of each tent, take a look at our Comparison Guide.

Still have questions? Join the Facebook community for real-life stories from 50,000+ TentBoxers, or contact our Product Specialists for personalised advice.