Mounting a rooftop tent, such as the TOPOAK Stellar tent, requires careful consideration to ensure safety and stability during your adventures. Below, we outline two key factors—roof racks/crossbars and vehicle compatibility—essential for a secure and successful setup.
Roof Racks/Crossbars
The roof rack or crossbars are critical in supporting your rooftop tent. For the TOPOAK Stellar tent, there are specific requirements you must follow:
Weight Capacity: Ensure that your roof rack or crossbars have a weight-bearing capacity of at least 200 lbs. This is crucial to support the weight of the tent and its occupants.
Bar Spacing: The distance between the two crossbars should be no less than 30 inches and no more than 60 inches to ensure proper weight distribution and stability.
Bar Design: If you are using round crossbars, avoid bars that are too thin, as they may not provide a secure base for the tent. Thin bars increase the risk of the tent shifting or detaching, especially during off-road adventures, which can be extremely dangerous.
A robust and properly installed roof rack or crossbars are foundational to your setup. Be sure to check your vehicle's manual and consult the rooftop tent’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
Vehicle Compatibility
The size of your vehicle is another crucial factor.
Size Considerations: If your vehicle is too small, the tent’s width or length may extend beyond the edges of your car’s roof. This could not only fail to meet installation requirements but also create safety hazards.
Regulatory Compliance: Oversized tents that extend past your vehicle’s roofline might violate local road safety regulations. This could lead to fines or legal complications, as well as increased risk during travel.
To ensure compatibility, measure your vehicle’s roof dimensions and compare them with the tent’s specifications. This step will help you avoid potential installation issues or legal risks.