Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for a more comfortable camping experience? A hard shell roof top tent may be just what you need These convenient and compact tents can be attached to the roof of your car and provide a sturdy and cozy sleeping space wherever your adventures take you However, purchasing a ready-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive
If you’re handy with tools and enjoy taking on a DIY project, building your own hard shell roof top tent can be a fun and cost-effective alternative In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Plywood
– Aluminum composite panels
– Insulation material
– Hinges
– Latches
– Foam mattress
– Roof rack or roof top tent platform
Instructions:
1 Design your tent:
Start by designing the dimensions and shape of your hard shell roof top tent Consider the size of your car’s roof and the number of people who will be using the tent Make sure to leave enough headroom for sitting up comfortably inside the tent Once you have your design finalized, use plywood to create the base and frame of your tent.
2 Construct the shell:
Cut the aluminum composite panels to fit the dimensions of your tent base These panels will provide a sturdy and weatherproof shell for your tent Attach the panels to the plywood base using hinges to allow for easy opening and closing of the tent Make sure to seal the seams between the panels to prevent any water leakage.
3 Add insulation:
To ensure a comfortable sleeping environment, add insulation material between the aluminum panels and the plywood base This will help regulate the temperature inside the tent and provide some soundproofing as well Choose a lightweight and breathable insulation that will not add too much weight to your tent.
4 Install the hardware:
Attach latches to the edges of the tent panels to secure them in place when closed diy hard shell roof top tent. Make sure the latches are sturdy and can withstand the elements You may also want to add gas struts to assist with opening and closing the tent These will make it easier to set up your tent when you reach your campsite.
5 Add the mattress:
Cut a foam mattress to fit the dimensions of your tent base A comfortable mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep in your hard shell roof top tent Consider adding a mattress cover for added comfort and protection from spills or accidents.
6 Attach to your car:
Once your DIY hard shell roof top tent is complete, it’s time to attach it to your car If you already have a roof rack, you can secure the tent to it using mounting brackets If not, consider purchasing a roof top tent platform that can be mounted directly to your car’s roof Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing the tent to your car safely.
7 Test it out:
Before heading out on your next camping trip, be sure to test your DIY hard shell roof top tent to make sure everything is working properly Open and close the tent several times to ensure that the hinges and latches are secure Spend a night in the tent in your driveway to make sure you are comfortable and that the insulation is working effectively.
In conclusion, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a rewarding project that allows you to customize your camping experience to meet your needs With the right materials and some basic tools, you can create a sturdy and comfortable sleeping space that will enhance your outdoor adventures So why not give it a try and embark on your next camping trip in style with your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.