Best Tailgate Tent For Car Boot Camping

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Alexandra Watson

Owner at Popupgazeboshop

Alexandra, founder of Pop Up Gazebo Shop, has a background in event planning & a passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces.At Pop Up Gazebo Shop, you can trust that you're getting expert advice and top-quality products from someone who truly understands the industry. Trust in Alexandra and the team at Pop Up Gazebo Shop to help you create your dream outdoor oasis.

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Quickly Turn Your Car, SUV or Van into a Camping Tent or Mini Campervan

Camping is a thrilling adventure, but for those who aren’t ready to invest in a trailer or campervan, hauling regular camping gear into the woods on a long hike isn’t an option. However, there’s a solution that combines the best of both worlds: camping in your vehicle!

With Car and Truck Bed Tents, you can transform your family car, van, or truck into a mobile tent and enjoy outdoor activities like camping, beach days, festivals, and more.

Car boot tents and tailgate tents offer an affordable alternative to traditional camping options, giving you the freedom to camp on a budget. These tents work with cars, trucks, and vans by hooking directly onto a door or boot, creating a cozy space to sleep and hang out.

With so many car and truck tents on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That’s why we’ve done the research and put together an in-depth guide that includes a buyer’s guide, information on different types of car boot tents, the advantages of owning one, and tips for caring for your tent. Plus, we answer frequently asked questions about tailgate tents so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing one.

Our team of experts has tested various car boot covers and selected our top picks for the Tailgate Tent For Car Boot Camping. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to turn your vehicle into a home away from home for your next outdoor adventure!

BEST OVERALL TAIL GATE TENT: NAPIER BACKROADZ

BEST-IN-CLASS CAR TENT FOR EASE OF USE, QUALITY & SPACE. GREAT FOR SHORT CAMPING TRIPS. UNHOOKS FROM CAR TO BE A TENT

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BEST OVERALL CAR AWNING: VERSATILITY DRIVE AWAY AWNING

BEST IN CLASS FOR SHADE & RAIN COVER ON THE GO. PERFECT FOR DAY TRIPS TO THE BEACH AND FESTIVALS

£171.70

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BEST OVERALL TRUCK BED TENT: NAPIER SPORTZ

BEST IN CLASS FOR COMFORT AND COVER WHILE FISHING OR ON SHORT CAMPING TRIPS.

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BEST TAILGATE TENT: SKANDIKA AARHAUS

BEST IN CLASS FOR SLEEPING SPACE & WEATHER COVER. GREAT FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY FITS UPTO 4 PEOPLE

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BEST LARGE CAR TENT FOR BOOT: SMOOTER 6 PERSON CAR TENT

BEST FOR SLEEPING SPACE WITH 2 LARGE ROOMS (PEREFCT FOR FAMILIES) FOR UPTO 6 PEOPLE

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BEST OVERALL CAR GAZEBO: RIGHTLINE SUV/CAR TENT

BEST IN FOR DAYS OUT, SHADE & KEEPING BUGS OUT & CAN BE A TENT TO LEAVE OR POP UP GAZEBO FOR SPORTING EVENTS ETC CAN SLEEP 6 PEOPLE!

£292.71

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Car Boot Tent In-Depth Reviews

BEST OVERALL TAILGATE TENT: NAPIER BACKROADZ

Napier Backroadz SUV Tent | 10′ x 10′ Vehicle Camping Tent | Fits All CUVs, SUVs, Minivans | Sleeps…

The best overall choice for car camping enthusiasts. With a spacious 3 x 3 meter design, this tent provides over 2.1 meters of headroom, comfortably sleeping up to 5 adults. Constructed with durable polyester material, this tent is fully waterproof with taped seams and built-in storm flaps on the windows and door, ensuring ultimate weather protection.

The tent features 1 large door and 3 mesh windows for optimal ventilation and a connection to power outlets to keep your devices charged. With a weight of only 1 kilogram, it’s easy to transport and set up.

Key Features

• Size: 3 x 3 meters
• Weight: 1 kilogram
• Sleeps: 5 adults
• Waterproof with taped seams and built-in storm flaps
• Seamlessly connects to the cargo area of your vehicle
• 1 large door and 3 mesh windows for optimal ventilation
• Provides additional sleeping or storage space
• Includes power outlet connection

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BEST OVERALL CAR AWNING: VERSATILITY DRIVE AWAY AWNING

Versatility Drive Away Awning Car Tent for SUV RVing,Campervan,Truck, Trailer and Overlanding…

The best option for providing shade and protection while on the go. This durable awning combines metal and plastic with an alloy steel frame and waterproof, rip-stop 210T polyester fabric. The square shape and UV protection shield you and your family from the sun, rain, and wind.

Key Features

• Size Set Up: Set-up Size: L 3.50 x 1.05 x 2.40 meters
• Material: Metal-Plastic
• Frame material: Alloy Steel
• Occupancy: Four-or-more-person
• Shade area: 5.57 square meters to 7.04 square meters
• Durable: Ripstop 210T polyester fabric for UV Protection, also Waterproof
• Multipurpose: Can be used with a vehicle, as a gazebo, or with steel poles as a ground shelter, with adjustable height for privacy.

£171.70

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BEST OVERALL TRUCK BED TENT: NAPIER SPORTZ

Napier Sportz Vehicle Specific Compact Short Truck Bed Portable 2 Person Outdoor Camping Tent with…

Introducing the Napier truck tent, the best overall option for camping in the back of your pickup truck. This portable and tall tent is perfect for up to 2 people, with a spacious interior that offers ample room for relaxation and a maximum center height of 1.78 meters. The tent also features an internal gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder for keeping your personal items neatly organized.

The tent offers optimal protection from the elements with a full rainfly, storm flaps, and an optional awning for increased privacy. It is designed for truck beds measuring from 1.52 to 1.57 meters long and is perfect for camping and hiking in all seasons. The tent comes in a stylish blue and tan color and is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

Key Features

• Occupancy: 2 Person
• Colour: Blue/Tan
• Weight: 11.48kg total & packs up small
• Compact size for truck beds measuring 1.52 to 1.57 meters long
• Spacious interior with a maximum center height of 1.78 meters
• Additional Features: Internal gear loft, gear pocket, and lantern holder for organization

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BEST TAILGATE TENT FOR SIDE OPENING CARS & VANS: SKANDIKA AARHAUS TRAVEL

Skandika Aarhus Travel van tent | freestanding awning, sewn-in groundsheet, waterproof, van tent for…

The Aarhus Travel is a compact bus awning for vans or minivans between 170 and 200 cm in height and with a sliding side door. It provides loads of extra space for your camping adventures because, after all, not everyone has a large camper van.

With a comfortable peak height of 205 cm, the Aarhus Travel offers plenty of space for all your gear and camping furniture, making it an ideal extension for your car or van. The tent is also weatherproof, with a water column of 3000 cm and high quality sealed seams. The sleeping pod is made of breathable material and the entrances allow for good air circulation. The tent is quick and easy to set up, and stands safely even without a vehicle docked on. Upgrade your car or minivan for a top-quality camping experience with the Aarhus Travel tailgate tent.

Key Features:

• 10 m² more living space for a relaxing, comfortable camping experience
• Sturdy car awning with stand-alone function for use with or without a vehicle
• Insect-free sleeping cabin in XL length for maximum sleeping comfort
• Large mesh window with blinds for plenty of air and light
• Two entrances, one of which can also be converted into a sun canopy
• Secure attachment to the vehicle using suction cups that are kind to the paintwork
• Waterproof outer tent with 3,000 mm water column and sealed seams

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BEST LARGE FAMILY-SIZE CAR TENT FOR BOOT: SMOOTER 6-PERSON CAR TENT

Rear Car Tent for SUV Hatchback Camping – Hatchback Car Tent Screen Tent for Van Back Door – SUV…

You’ll love this concept! With a 10ft x 10ft base space area and a 7ft high head clearance, this car boot tent offers ample room for a family of 4-6 people. Seam sealed to withstand strong winds and solid waterproofing, this tent also features large screen rooms for enjoying the great outdoors while safely enclosed. With nearly vertical walls and super large awnings, this tent can stand up to 30-mph-plus winds and is easy to pitch and set up.

Key Features

• Spacious Rooms – 100 sq. ft. of floor space
• Peak Height – 7ft head clearance
• Large Screen Windows – 5 big doors with mesh that can be opened to become large awnings
• Waterproof & Durable – PU 4,000mm waterproofing and can withstand strong winds
• Easy to Put Together and Take Down – Simple assembly with included instruction and supports

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BEST OVERALL CAR GAZEBO: RIGHTLINE SUV/CAR TENT

Rightline Gear 110907 SUV Tent For Camping & Hiking, 6 Person

Sleep off the ground in the comfort of your own vehicle with our choice of best car gazebo. With tent dimensions of 2.4m length x 2.4m width x 2.2m height, it can comfortably sleep 4 adults and the vehicle boot area can sleep an additional 2 adults.

The water-resistant fabric with tape sealed seams (PU 2000mm) and a PE bathtub floor ensures that no ground tarp is required. The vehicle sleeve attaches to any size SUV, minivan, wagon, or pick-up truck with a cap. This gazebo includes the tent, rainfly, carry bag, and sewn-in set up guide. Made in the USA.

Key Features:

• Tent Dimensions: 2.4m Length x 2.4m Width x 2.2m Height
• Tent sleeps 4 adults, vehicle cargo area sleeps 2 adults
• Water resistant fabric with tape sealed seams (PU 2000mm)
• Vehicle sleeve attaches to any size SUV, minivan, wagon, or pick-up truck with cap
• PE bathtub floor, no ground tarp required
• Includes tent, rainfly, carry bag, and sewn-in set up guide

£292.71

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Buyers Guide for Car Boot Tents

When buying a car boot tent, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best tent for your needs.

Vehicle Type: There are different types of awnings/tents to suit each type of vehicle (car, truck, can).  You must ensure that the model you pick is compatible and can be correctly connected to ensure it’s waterproof and windproof.

Size of the Tent: If you’re planning on using the tent for extended camping trips, you’ll want a tent that offers plenty of living space and extra rooms. For beach trips, fishing trips etc, a smaller boot car tent or even a car gazebo might work better.  Also, consider the ceiling height if you have lived in the tent for some time.

Durability:  When choosing a tent or gazebo, consider the duration of your trip and the strength you require. For example, a quick fishing trip may require a different level of durability compared to a week-long family camping trip. Think about the durable materials used for the tent cover (will you need a canvas cover) and the strength of the poles and guy lines. This will help ensure that your shelter can withstand the elements and last for your trip.  I always advise looking for high-quality materials, and you won’t go far wrong, especially when camping in bad weather!

Weather Condition: In the UK, you must think about the weather. If you’re planning on camping in areas with a lot of rain or strong winds, you’ll want a tent made of durable, waterproof material with strong poles and a waterproof floor.  If it’s just for beach days or even festivals, consider the sun protection and shade your tailgate tent gives, and look for excellent ventilation – a pop-up car boot tent can offer all this. 

Additional Features:  When you’re looking for the best value car awning to give the most comfort, check to see if it has things like mesh windows for ventilation, sewn-in floor (built-in floor), colour-coded poles, gear pockets, guy ropes to tie it down in the wind or a rainfly for extra protection.

Types of Car Boot Tents

Several types of car boot tents are available, each with different features and benefits. 

Hatchback Tents (Tailgate Tents):

These tents are the most versatile and will attach to the back of most vehicles. They can either close up at the end of the boot space or continue into a proper tent with one or more rooms.  Some will have a small awning and tent-style door, while others will create a tunnel from the back of the vehicle to the tent.

Side Door Tents (Car Awnings):

These tents attach to the side of your vehicle and most look like a cube or room. They will have a flat-top awning that extends out from the roof of your car. These tents are ideal for vans with sliding doors or jeeps with open sides but can be bulky and difficult to set up.

Car Gazebos:

These tents are an excellent option for enjoying the outdoors while still being protected from the sun, wind, and rain. They’re lightweight, easy to set up and take down in minutes and recommended for daily use only.

Car Gazebos with Sides:

These car tents are similar to car gazebos but have different sides that can be attached to the canopy to provide extra protection from the elements.

Truck Back Tent:

A truck bed tent is a type of camping tent that is designed to fit in the bed of a pickup truck. One of the main advantages of a truck bed tent is that it allows campers to sleep at a higher elevation than traditional camping tents. This can provide a more comfortable and safer camping experience, as it can help to keep campers away from potential flooding or wildlife. Additionally, since the tent is attached to the truck, it also provides a secure and safe place to store gear and personal items.

Advantages of Owning a Car Boot Tent

There are several advantages to using a car boot tent when you go camping. First, you can sleep anywhere you want, as long as you can park your vehicle. Giving you more freedom in where you go since your car is smaller and can fit in more places than a trailer, camper, or RV.

You can also camp out in more inclement weather; cold and strong winds aren’t going to bother you as much if you’re sleeping in the car or in a truck bed tent.

Another advantage is security. You can lock the vehicle with a car boot tent and know that no one can sneak up on you. The only vulnerable spot is the entrance of the tent.

Finally, sleeping on the ground isn’t comfortable. You can use an air mattress or specially designed mattress for your car in your car to help you stay warm and wake up without a sore back.

How to Care for a Car Boot Tent

To ensure that your car boot tent lasts for many camping trips, you must take care of it. Here are a few tips to help you care for your tent:

• Always set up and take down your tent according to the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage to the tent from poles splitting fabric or snapping.
• Clean your tent regularly, especially after a trip to a sandy or dusty area, to remove dirt and debris that can damage the tent over time.
• Store your tent in a dry, cool place when not in use. Don¡tstoring it in a damp or humid area, as this can lead to mold and mildew growth.
• Inspect your tent regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any tears or holes, repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Tailgate Tent FAQs

Car boot tents are a convenient and practical solution for camping and outdoor adventures. They offer the ability to sleep anywhere your vehicle can go, providing freedom and flexibility that traditional camping methods may not offer. When buying a car boot tent, you must consider the type of vehicle you own, the size of the tent, and the weather conditions you’re likely to encounter. A car boot tent can last many happy camping trips with proper care and maintenance.

Last update on 2024-11-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API