Roof Top Tent Storage – a guide on how to store a RTT


Updated: 27 Dec 2024

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What is Roof Top Tent Storage and why is it important?

Roof top tent storage means putting your roof top tent (RTT) in the proper storage while it is not in use or in storage to ensure it doesn’t suffer damage. Storing it properly both during and after the off-season is crucial to guarantee your tent will not only stay in good shape but will last long and even go for many years if need be. Proper storage also prevents it from the effect of physical forces and acts of nature such as rain, mold, and or mist contained therein. If your rooftop tent is not stored appropriately, it will be ruined earlier than expected, and this will require you make costly repairs, or replace the tent. And most importantly, it should be protected so that it remains tough, useful and prepared for another trip with you.

The best ways to protect your roof top tent during storage

The single most consideration to take into account when storing a roof top tent is inevitably the protection of the tent from several factors including moisture, UV radiation and temperature. In order to counter these factors, one should use a good quality fresh storage bag or cover that is water proof. However, a storage cover that is created from a heavy yet fully breathable fabric is useful as this makes the tent dry out when required but also conquers mold and mildew. If you reside in a region where we have severe weather conditions especially heavy snow or rains it is advisable to park your RTT in a garage or shed. However, if the tents are to be stored outside they should be well off the ground and should not be in a place were they are likely to get flooded. It is also important to monitor often the state of a tent so that it stays properly protected during the storage period.

Selecting the Best Roof Top Tent Storage for Your Car

In deciding on the proper roof top tent storage type to fit a certain type of vehicle this and the following factors should be taken into consideration. The best idea for using space in your vehicle is to get roof rack or roof storage box which is finding for RTTs. These storage solutions provide security for your tent while at the same time, saving interior space in your vehicle. If you intend to store the RTT when it is not in use you can go for the storage bag or cover that will fit your tent size. Ensure that the storage you are to make is strong, water proof to withstand the condition of the roof top tent and strong enough to support the weight of the roof top tent.

Storing in Small Spaces; Roof Top Tent Storage

People who own a roof top tent may ask whether it can be stored in a small enclosure, yes it can be done easily, let me show you how. First of all, collapse the tent to the smallest parts that it can be made. It is common for most of the roof top tents to be foldable in order to occupy less space in storage areas like the closet, shed or small garage. If your tent cannot fit well in a limited space, locate the tent close to the ceiling hanging it with hooks or a storage rack. Next tip is in relation to the space and one of the best recommendation is to ensure that the tent is off the ground through the use of a vertical storage space such as a book shelf.

A Guide to Possible Storage of Roof Top Tents during Winter

Excesses of cold and accumulating snow on the roof top tent especially in the winter therefore must be avoided and your roof top tent stored properly. Some of the most effective methods for the preservation of your RTT during winter is to store it in a location like garage, shed or basement. If the owner does not have storage space inside the garage then high quality storage cover would be helpful in shielding from the snow and ice. When storing your tent remember to wash it and dry it up very well to avoid situations whereby moisture gets to freeze and damage the fabric or the hardware used in the construction of the tent. Do not lay the tent directly on the groug as it is adverse to its base when it is frozen.

Some measures to Follow while Storing Your Roof Top Tent

They are required to extend the period it takes before the roof top tent would need repairs or replacement within the course of the storage period. Always conduct a check on your tent to see if there are some areas that are torn, zipper on your tent is damaged or if the pole is bent. This way you will be able to deal with it in case of any defect noted in order that the problem does not compound itself. Furthermore, one must ensure that the storage area is free from moisture every sometimes since they cause molding or development of mildew. In case your RTT has a mattress or padding, it should be stored in a different and clean area in order not to acquire pressure deformation or excessive humidity. Finally, you should also physically check on your roof top tent before you go for the next trip and realize that it has worn out.

The Top Roof Top Tent Storage Bags and Covers

When tent is not in use it is stored and therefore it is appropriate to invest on high quality storage bag or cover for your roof top tent. The storage solution should also be water proof, allow fresh air circulation and should be hard wearing. Choose car covers that are made from material such polyester or canvas since they provide good protection against harsh conditions but allow for breathing space. Thus, most storage bags and covers are manufactured with convenient accessories like adjustable bands and hauls. Tent storage covers should also be perfectly tailored to match the size of the tent so that each part of the tent is sheltered from the dust, debris, and bad weather.

Storing of Roof Top Tent Accessories and Equipment

Roof top tents usually include extra features such as a ladder, a mattress, and a pole. This mores to the fact that these items need to be stored in the best possible manner so that they can be at their best every time you are preparing for a trip. Before storing accessories, they should be washed and preferably dried or wiped clean to fetch the task. After use, keep the ladder in a different tote or basket so as not to end up being ruined. If you use RTT with a mattress, you should pack it to reduce dimensions, and keep it away from moisture or dust. Stakes, tie-downs and other small items that are used occasionally can be placed individually in a small box or a pocket, so they won’t be in the way, but can be found easily, whenever required.

Steps to Undertake to Help Avoid Mold and Mildew on Roof Top Tent During Storage

Storing RTTs involves increased chances of developing mold hence it’s advisable to store them in dry areas. It is also important that the roof top tent should be as dry as possible in order to avoid development of mould and mildew. If storing outdoors, just ensure that the cover you put on the is only a protective cover and has ventilation to avoid trapped moisture. There are small packets of silica gel available on the market that may be placed within the tent to reduce moisture within the tent. Also, it is recommended that one should pick a storage place that is well ventilated so that it doesn’t harbor moisture. When the roof top tent is stored, make sure you check it regularly to ensure some of the following issues are not a problem: mold and mildew.

How to Properly Secure Your Roof Top Tent at a Garage or Shed

A garage or a shed is the appropriate place to store it because these spaces provide safety from the weather conditions and at the same time, the roof top tent is readily available. It is often possible to store your RTT in a garage or shed, and in any such situation, the location must be dry, cool, and properly ventilated. Do not place the tent on the floor because moisture tends to accumulate on the fabric floor. However, instead of storing the tent on the floor, place it on a shelf, hooks or storage rack to create space. Another great idea is to use a storage cover to increase the garage or shed protection of dust, dirt, or any other objects in the garage or a shed.

How to get your Roof Top Tent ready for the Long Term Storage

When the roof top tent is to be stored for a long time then there are certain things which need to be done to keep the tent safe for use for a long time. The first step is to wash the tent and let it dry out or if possible simply air the tent for sometime. Ensure the tent has seen minor tears or fading and patch them or replace the ripped or worn out areas before the tent is put away for use. I would advise you to keep the tent clean and dry by drying it up completely then ensure you keep it in a dry place with adequate ventilation. In so far as possible, the RTT has to be kept in a bag or cover to avoid accumulation of dust or dirty and moisture. This means camping equipment stored in the tent should not be stacked heavily as this may cause damage to the tent fabric and or frame. Don’t forget to always inspect the health of your RTT to be prepared in case you are ready to move around again.


Kasteena David

Kasteena David

I am a professional camper. I have done many camping in many different types of areas. I am doing camping for last 12 years approximately. My friends called the doctor of camping. Camping is my life.

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