Rooftop tent accessories – what is actually worth the money

You park your car, pitch the tent, and have a place to sleep in minutes. That's the whole point of a roof tent. But it's also just when you've started using it for a while that you notice what's missing — and start building on it.

The right accessories can make the difference between an okay night outdoors and a great camp. Here are the accessories that are actually worth the money.

Awning — more space, right next to the car

An awning is probably the first accessory most people buy — and for good reason. It creates a sheltered space right next to the car without you having to do anything. Just unfold, nail it down, and you’ve got a roof over your head.

It doesn't matter if it's raining, scorching, or just a little too bright — the awning solves that. It turns "a place to sleep" into a place to actually hang out. Eat breakfast, cook, sit and check the map. Without an awning, you're in the car or in the tent. With it, you have a third option.

For those who use the roof tent regularly, the awning quickly becomes self-evident.

Tarp — the flexible weather protection

A tarp isn't as big as an awning, but it's more versatile. You can stretch it between trees, your car, and your tent — or just throw it out as a temporary rain cover when you need it.

The big advantage is that you can cover a much larger area. Perfect when you want to cook in the rain, protect equipment that is out front, or just create more space around the camp. Many people who travel for longer periods with roof tents use both an awning and a tarp — they complement each other well.

Awnings — turn your car into a complete camp

An awning is mounted under the tent, creating a completely protected space around the car. It's the step from "car with a tent" to something that actually resembles a small base camp.

If you're on a long trip, traveling with family, or are in rainy weather for several days — then an awning is a game changer. You can stand up, keep your gear dry, and have a wind-protected space to move around in without having to step up into the tent or out into the rain.

Mattress — if you sleep well, everything else works

Most hardshell roof tents come with a mattress, but it doesn't always hold up to night after night on uneven surfaces and in the cold. An upgrade here will have a direct impact on how you feel the next day.

A better mattress provides better back support, insulates against the cold from below, and reduces condensation in the tent. If you plan to use your roof tent often, this is an investment that will pay off in the form of better sleep — which is really the whole point.

Smart gadgets that make a difference

In addition to the major accessories, there are a few details that make roof tent camping more organized and comfortable: LED lighting in the tent, storage pockets, ladder pockets, cargo nets, and bags for shoes and equipment. No must-haves — but once you have them, you'll wonder how you ever got by without them.

And a tip that is easily forgotten: replace the regular mounting nuts with anti-theft nuts . It takes five minutes and makes the tent impossible to remove with regular tools. A cheap insurance for an expensive piece of equipment.

Build your setup at your own pace

The great thing about roof tents is that you don't have to buy everything at once. Start with the tent, add the awning when you find you want more space, complete with a tarp and awning when you travel further. Each accessory adds something concrete.

At Gasell Adventure you will find accessories for roof tents that are developed for Nordic conditions — for those who want to build a setup that actually lasts.