Does This Rooftop Tent Fit My Vehicle? | YakRacks Complete RTT Fitment Guide

When it comes to overlanding, few upgrades transform your setup like a rooftop tent (RTT). But before you click “Add to Cart,” there’s one question we hear more than any other:

“Will this tent fit my vehicle?”

The good news is that almost every vehicle can run a rooftop tent with the right setup. The key is knowing what to look for. Fitment isn’t just about attaching a tent to your roof—it’s about safety, compatibility, and ensuring your rig is ready for years of adventure.

Here’s the complete YakRacks guide to rooftop tent fitment, built from real off-road experience.

Step 1: Know Your Roof Type

Your roof style determines how and where you can mount your tent.

Bare Roof: Just sheet metal with no rails or bars. This setup needs aftermarket crossbars or a clip-fit rack system to distribute weight safely.

Raised Side Rails: The most common on SUVs and crossovers. These run front to back with space underneath, allowing easy clamp-on crossbars.

Flush Side Rails: These sit tight against the roof and require special clamps or adapters.

Factory Crossbars: Some vehicles include them, but many aren’t strong enough for a rooftop tent’s weight. They’re fine for light cargo, but not for a full RTT setup.

Fixed Mounting Points: Hidden threaded holes under small covers on your roof. When used with the right crossbars, these are among the strongest options for rooftop tents.

Rule of Thumb: The tent doesn’t mount to your roof—it mounts to crossbars or a rack system. Your roof type just determines what kind of crossbars you need.

Step 2: Check Your Vehicle’s Load Ratings

Every vehicle has two key load ratings that determine if it’s RTT-ready.

Dynamic Load Rating: The maximum weight your roof can handle while driving. This includes your RTT, crossbars, and any gear. Most vehicles fall between 100–220 lbs dynamic capacity.

Static Load Rating: The maximum weight your roof can hold when parked. This number matters most for sleeping, since static capacity is usually three to four times higher than dynamic.

Example: If your dynamic load rating is 165 lbs and your tent weighs 140 lbs, you’re within spec—just remember to include your crossbar weight too.

Step 3: Crossbar Strength and Spacing

Even if your roof can handle it, your crossbars must meet the tent’s requirements.

Weight Rating: Look for crossbars rated for at least 165–200 lbs dynamic load.

Spacing: Most rooftop tents require crossbars 30–48 inches apart. Too close and the tent isn’t properly supported; too far apart and the base can flex.

Bar Style: Round, square, and aerodynamic bars all work if they meet the load rating. Yakima, Thule, Rhino-Rack, and heavy-duty factory systems are top choices.

Step 4: Fitment Examples by Vehicle

Here’s how fitment plays out on popular overlanding rigs:

Jeep Wrangler (Hard Top): Requires aftermarket gutter mounts or crossbars. Avoid light factory setups—RTTs need heavy-duty support.

Toyota 4Runner: Compatible with strong factory rails and aftermarket crossbars. Raised side rails make it an easy install.

Subaru Outback/Forester: Factory crossbars usually won’t cut it. Upgrade to Thule or Yakima bars that bolt directly to the side rails.

Pickup Trucks (Tacoma, Gladiator, etc.): It’s often better to mount your RTT on a bed rack instead of the roof. This keeps the center of gravity lower and frees up roof space for extra gear.

Step 5: Double-Check Tent Specs

Every rooftop tent lists:

• Tent weight: Usually 120–200 lbs for soft shells and 150–220+ lbs for hard shells.

• Mounting requirements: Bar spacing, bar width, and bar type.

• Ladder clearance: Especially important if you have a lift kit or tall vehicle.

Always cross-check your vehicle manual, rack specs, and tent manufacturer’s recommendations before buying.

Fitment First, Adventure Next

Skipping fitment research can ruin your trip before it begins. But once you understand your roof type, load ratings, and crossbar setup, mounting a rooftop tent becomes simple and safe.

At YakRacks, every rooftop tent we offer is trail-tested, tribe-approved, and backed by real-world fitment guidance. Whether you drive a Wrangler, 4Runner, or Outback, we’ll help you find the right gear to carry your passion into the wild.

Ready to find your match? Explore our Rooftop Tent Collection and start your next adventure today.