The car camping trend has shifted from niche to mainstream in the last few years, attracting everyone from hardcore adventurers to casual weekenders.
From roof tents themselves to innovative storage and camping gear essentials – car camping has exploded in popularity within the outdoor industry. But why is it so popular? Let’s dig into some of the reasons that tents for cars are here to stay.
1. Comfort and convenience
We love traditional camping, but it often involves heavy backpacks, limited storage and uncomfortable ground conditions. Car camping, particularly with a TentBox, eliminates all of these hassles.
With a vehicle as your base, you have plenty of room for all the creature comforts you need – including food, blankets, pillows and other gear. Many TentBoxers bring along additional awnings, cooking stations and even portable heaters to create a cosy, personalised outdoor space with minimal setup.
2. Elevated sleeping area
Roof tents for cars have taken the market by storm, offering a unique solution for campers who prefer not to sleep on the ground. Mounted on top of your car, a TentBox provides an elevated sleeping area, with a built-in mattress for comfort and weatherproof fabric to keep you warm and dry.
The convenience factor is huge – they’re easy to set up and take down, making them perfect for quick overnight trips or spontaneous adventures. Not to mention the extra height is ideal for providing those all-important views.
3. Freedom to be flexible
Unlike traditional camping, where you’re tied to a single campsite, car camping provides the freedom to pick up and go at a moment's notice.
Whether you’re exploring multiple destinations over a weekend or extending your stay because you discovered a hidden gem, car camping gives you the freedom to be flexible. Our roof tents for cars pack up quickly, allowing you to be mobile without complication.
This flexibility is ideal for anyone who wants the freedom to explore without extensive planning. In fact, many TentBoxers pack up and go without any plans at all, embracing a more spontaneous, adventure-filled approach.
4. Accessible adventures
Tents for cars lower the barriers to entry for outdoor experiences, making camping more accessible to people who may not be seasoned hikers or wilderness experts.
We recently partnered with Hyundai on their car camping campaign, where they set out to inspire people to experience the outdoors with the help of their cars.
Using a TentBox to turn your car into a camper proved an approachable way for families, pet owners and city dwellers alike to connect with nature without many of the challenges of traditional camping.
5. Aspirational experiences
The explosion of car camping on social media has added to the TentBox appeal, with hashtags like #VanLife, #TentBoxCommunity and #CarCamping inspiring a new generation to take to the road.
Stunning photos overlooking pristine landscapes or cosy setups next to scenic lakes have turned camping into an aspirational experience. Sharing these photos online not only celebrates the joys of nature but also inspires others to consider car camping as a viable way to escape routine.
6. Budget-friendly travel
Compared to the costs associated with hotels, flights and even motorhome rentals – car camping is significantly more affordable.
After the initial investment in your TentBox, you can transform your car into a camper and enjoy the great outdoors for the price of a tank of fuel. There are lots of free places to park up and sleep, and campsites are much more affordable than hotels.
All our TentBox models are built to last, with a 5-year warranty as standard. This makes it a one-time investment for most people, offering significant savings on travel expenses over the years.
Tents for cars: a trend with staying power
The shift towards car camping reflects our desire for convenience, flexibility and accessibility when it comes to enjoying the outdoors.
From budget friendly travel to aspirational adventure – it’s clear that tents for cars check all the boxes and it’s no wonder car camping is here to stay.
As more people look to the road for adventure, the car camping trend will only continue to grow. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a first-time camper, TentBox offers a unique way to connect with the world beyond the city limits.
So pack up, hit the road and see where your next car camping adventure takes you!
