Roof-Tents - Anyone who spent their vacation at a campsite this summer witnessed the major trend of rooftop tents. This vacation option, so close to heaven and especially appealing to families with children, is practical and comfortable.

Simply arrive by car and unfold the tent roof, and the sleeping area is ready, and relaxation can begin (Both images copyright Messe Düsseldorf / tillmann).

The CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF 2025's Rooftop Tent Hub in Hall 3 of the trade fair offers an overview of the current models. Among those presenting rooftop tents are Naturbummler (3/C38), Roof Space (3/A49), and Winch Industry (3/A18). The exhibitor database provides an overview of all the suppliers presenting rooftop tents at CARAVAN SALON 2025 at https://bit.ly/CaravanSalon_Dachzelte.

It's immediately apparent that these models have little in common with the first-generation roof-tents of the 1950s. Sturdy constructions, high-quality materials, and spacious interiors with a firm mattress delight today's camping enthusiast. Especially for families with children or young couples, they offer an ideal solution for flexible, uncomplicated, and cost-effective travel – whether for a spontaneous weekend trip or a longer tour off the beaten track. Before traveling, however, it's important to be aware that in most countries, overnight stays in a roof tent are only permitted at campsites or designated parking areas.

Here's a brief overview of the different types of roof tents:

Pop-up roof-tents: Spacious, lightweight, and ideal for flexible tours

Pop-up roof-tents are particularly popular because they are compact and aerodynamic when closed, but expand to a generous size when unfolded – ideal for families or travellers with a lot of luggage. They are usually made of lightweight textile material, are more cost-effective than hard-shell models, and are suitable for many vehicle types. The interior offers a spacious sleeping area, often with an integrated mattress. Additional space is created by awnings or covered entrances that also serve as storage space. Pop-up tents are somewhat more vulnerable in bad weather, but can be upgraded to be weatherproof with accessories such as inner tents. A good choice for those who want to be flexible and budget-conscious on the go.

Hard-shell roof-tents – Robust, fast, and weatherproof

Hard-shell roof-tents, also called hardshell tents, are among the most popular types of roof tents and are ideal for discerning campers. Their exterior consists of a sturdy hard shell, usually made of glass-fibre-reinforced plastic (GRP) or aluminium. This not only ensures an aerodynamic design while driving but also a particularly long service life. The major advantage is the quick and easy setup: In just a few simple steps, the hard shell can be raised or lowered to the side – without any poles or complicated devices. This means the sleeping area is ready for use in seconds. Thanks to their sturdy outer shell, hard-shell tents are particularly well protected against wind, rain, and changeable weather. Inside, they offer ample space, a comfortable mattress, and practical storage. This makes them the ideal choice for frequent travellers, all-weather campers, or anyone who values ​​comfort and stability – whether in summer or in adverse weather conditions.

Hybrid Rooftop Tents – Versatility Meets Comfort

Hybrid roof-tents combine the best of both worlds: the compact design of a hard-shell tent with the spaciousness of a pop-up tent. When closed, they impress with their slim dimensions and aerodynamic shape, which positively impacts handling and fuel consumption. When unfolded, however, they reveal their full potential – with significantly more space and a well-thought-out interior design. This combination makes hybrid tents particularly attractive for campers who value flexibility and comfort. They offer a stable construction, reliable weather protection, and a generous feeling of space – ideal for longer trips or changing climates. Whether for weekend trips or extended adventures, hybrid rooftop tents are the perfect choice for those who don't want to choose between comfort, functionality, and compactness. It's no wonder, then, that they're becoming increasingly popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

Inflatable Roof-Tents – Lightweight, Fast, and Surprisingly Stable

Inflatable roof-tents are an innovative development of traditional tent systems and rely on air instead of metal poles. The principle: Instead of poles, robust air chambers are used, which are quickly inflated with a pump. This not only reduces weight and pack size, but also makes setup and takedown particularly easy – ideal for those who want to camp spontaneously and without hassle. Despite their low weight, inflatable models offer surprisingly high stability. Modern materials and sophisticated designs provide reliable protection from wind and weather. Comfort isn't compromised: Many of these tents feature integrated mattresses, windows with mosquito nets, and practical ventilation solutions. Minimalists, in particular, appreciate the ease of use and flexibility of inflatable roof tents. They're the perfect solution for those who travel light but still don't want to miss out on a permanent place to sleep.

Further information on the roof tent trend can also be found in the CARAVAN SALON Club: https://www.caravan-salon-club.de/urlaubstrend-dachzelten/

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