Roof tents come in many different price ranges and models. If you want to buy a cheap roof tent, a tent of the so-called soft shell model is the best option. Our most affordable model is called Lillskutan.
Soft shell roof tents are usually significantly cheaper than so-called hard shell models. Soft shell roof tents resemble a regular tent in appearance and unfold like a fan.
Hard shell resembles more a square box when unfolded and a regular roof box when folded. They open automatically from a roof box with the help of hydraulic pistons. There are also hard shell models that unfold to the side, such as iKamper.
Cheaper with soft shell roof tents
Soft shell roof tents usually cost between 10,000 – 25,000 SEK depending on the brand you choose and the size of the roof tent. So you get more tent for your money.
The most common difference is the width of the mattress. Our roof tent Åreskutan is available, for example, in widths of 140 centimeters (two-person), 165 centimeters (three-person), and 180 centimeters (four-person).
Many roof tents on the market look very similar but there can be big differences in details and features. This can include things like the thickness of the included mattress, the type of ladder included, whether you get shoe bags, and which tent fabric is used.
It pays off to spend time finding a roof tent that makes camping easy and convenient because it will of course increase the likelihood that you use your roof tent more!
Lillskutan – our cheapest roof tent
Our cheapest roof tent is our model Lillskutan (which is also in the picture above). It comes in three sizes and fits 2-4 people. Inside, Lillskutan and Åreskutan are the same size.
The advantage of Lillskutan is that you get a view in all four directions, it also weighs slightly less and folds up a bit faster.
Hard shell roof tents are often more expensive
Hard shell roof tents are almost always more expensive, prices usually range between 25,000 – 45,000 SEK. An advantage of these models is that they open a bit faster than soft shell models. A disadvantage, besides the higher price, is that they are usually heavier and the ladder cannot be stored inside the tent, and they have a thinner mattress to sleep on.
Which tent you ultimately choose is largely a matter of taste. Folded, a hard shell roof tent looks nicer, but when unfolded, at least we think a soft shell roof tent is much more fun and attractive.
Are cheap roof tents worse?
Cheap does not always mean worse - there are a number of factors that affect the price that are not directly related to quality. For example, the brand and the company's business model. We at Taktältarna can keep the price of our roof tents down because we have chosen to cut out the reseller layer. This way we can also maintain a more personal contact with our customers.
But of course, price can affect the quality of roof tents. Therefore, it is good to do thorough research before you buy a roof tent. Here we list what you should consider. Things to look at include the type of base plate, mattress thickness, and type of tent fabric.
A cheap roof tent may not have as durable material choices and not as many smart features and details as a roof tent that costs a bit more.
Unsure if a roof tent is for you – then renting a roof tent is a cheap alternative
Buying a roof tent costs a bit. Sometimes it can be nice to have actually tried before you spend so much money. For those who want to do that, we at Taktältarna offer roof tent rentals. Renting is also a great option for those with a limited budget but who still want to experience the adventure of a roof tent.
If you have any questions about roof tents, you are always welcome to contact us.
