For avid overlanders and campers, a hard-shell rooftop tent offers the ultimate combination of protection, convenience, and comfort for sleeping above your vehicle. King’s Campers has earned a reputation for making high-quality rooftop tents that excel in livability and all-weather performance.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about King’s rooftop tents including key features, how to choose the right model, setup tips, and frequently asked questions.
Overview of King’s Campers
Founded in 2005 by camper Philip King, King’s Campers is a Colorado-based company specializing in durable hard-shell rooftop tents. Their tents are constructed from fiberglass or ABS thermoplastic shells for strength and insulation. The company focuses on thoughtful design features for long-term reliability, multi-season livability, and ease of use during set up or take down.
Key Benefits of King’s Roof Top Tents
King’s tents provide several advantages:
- Hard shell design provides strength and weather protection lacking in soft canvas tents
- Generous size and interior features optimize comfort for extended stays
- High-quality materials and components prevent leaks and wear and tear
- Ladders and annex room options expand living space
- Turns any rig into a quick pop-up guest room or basecamp
- Gets you up off the ground away from ground moisture and critters
- Allows flexible camping in any weather on any terrain
- Built-in mattresses provide comfortable sleeping surfaces
- Easy mounting on a wide range of roof racks and crossbars
For overland travel, King’s tents deliver durable livability for years of adventures.
Types of King’s Roof Top Tents
King’s offers several tent series to match needs:
Standard NX Series
The classic hardtop design is powered by gas struts for a one-touch setup. Quality canvas with wide mesh windows and rain fly.
Best For: All-around performance for shorter or solo camping trips.
Extreme NX Series
Built with Bomax-reinforced canvas and thicker thermoplastic composites. Ideal for extreme weather or off-road use.
Best For: Durability and strength for harsh environments. Families or couples.
M.O.A.B. Series
The Mother Of All Tents features annex rooms and is engineered to handle any conditions. The peak of luxury.
Best For: Camplux comfort and livability. Group camping or long expeditions.
Tacoma Carbon Fiber Edition
Lightweight pop-up carbon fiber shell. Sleek low profile perfect for truck beds.
Best For: Solo adventurers prioritizing weight savings and MPG.
Key Features of King’s Roof Top Tents
King’s tents deliver thoughtful functionality:
- Waterproof Covers – Coated ripstop canvas tops shed rain. UV protection. Mold and mildew resistant.
- No-Sag Design – Reinforced fabric avoids stretching or drooping over time.
- Strong Frames – Durable aircraft-grade aluminum won’t bend or crack.
- Gas Struts – Allow easy one-touch opening and smooth, controlled closing.
- Wide Windows – Large screened windows for views, airflow, and stargazing at night.
- Insulated Hard Shells – Thermoformed ABS and fiberglass shells maintain interior temperature.
- Interior Pockets – Mesh pockets neatly store small personal items.
- LED Light Strips – Low voltage interior lighting offers a home-like ambiance.
- Sturdy Ladders – Telescoping ladders lock in place at varied heights.
- Solar Charging Ports – Replenish devices or run small electronics.
- Modular Annexes – Optional attachments expand interior space.
- Mattresses – Built-in high-density foam mattresses maximize comfort. Some models have memory foam.
How to Choose the Right King’s Roof Top Tent
With multiple series available, here are key factors to help select the best King’s tent for your needs:
Vehicle Type
Consider your vehicle make, model, and roof length. The tent must safely fit and be accessible. Measure crossbar and track distances.
Group Size
Determine the number of sleepers and choose a 1-4 person tent accordingly. Couples or families need larger sizes.
Camping Duration
For short weekend trips, NX tents suffice. Week+ long overlanding requires thicker shells and annexes of M.O.A.B. tents.
Weather Exposure
Most models handle mild climates fine, but frequent rain or snow may call for a thicker canvas top or fiberglass shell of the Extreme NX series.
Off-Road Intensity
The more extreme, remote terrain you tackle, the more durable the tent is required. Reinforced platforms prevent flexing under punishing conditions.
Weight Considerations
Hard shells weigh 100-200 lbs. Carbon fiber Tacoma edition trims weight. However, durability often requires thickness and robust materials.
Evaluate your expected camping style and choose the appropriate combination of interior space, weather protection, and mobility for your needs.
Additional King’s Roof Top Tent Options
King’s offers handy add-ons and accessories:
- Annex Rooms – Add interior living space. Options include basic Gear Loft, full changing rooms, or massive multi-room MEGA annex setups.
- Interior Thermoplastic Liners – Insulated shells add heat retention in cold months for 4-season comfort.
- Ladder Mounts – Attachable ladder racks provide exterior storage.
- LED Light Bars – Integrated rows of bright LEDs illuminate campsites at night.
- Universal Mounting Brackets – Allow mounting tents to any roof crossbar type.
- Special Color Options – Customizable shell colors help tents blend in or stand out.
- Extra Long Mattresses – For models with annex rooms, extend mattress size for more comfort.
Customize your King’s tent with annexes, racks, lights, and components to perfectly match your camping lifestyle.
Setting Up and Using Your King’s Roof Top Tent
Putting your rooftop tent to use is straightforward:
Mounting & Installation
Have a professional securely mount the empty tent shell to your roof rack crossbars following instructions to balance weight safely and avoid roof damage.
Opening the Tent
Simply release the gas struts and raise the cover. Unfold any integrated ladders. Allow tent interior to air out if closed up.
Interior Accessories
Place any sleeping pads, pillows, bags, and linens inside. Attach LED light strips and portable fans or heaters as needed.
Stowing Gear
Utilize interior mesh pockets and loft bags to organize clothes, toiletries, gadgets, and essentials neatly off the floor.
Sleeping/Living
Enjoy stellar views, fresh air, and the security of sleeping elevated off the ground. Take advantage of the comfy mattress. Cook under the rainfly canopy.
Closing the Tent
Sweep out loose items. Flip mattress. Carefully return the cover over the base and lock it down tight with the struts.
Taking Down
Have the tent professionally de-mounted once home. Thoroughly clean and allow all fabrics to dry before storing the tent shell securely.
It’s quick and easy to start benefiting from your rooftop tent investment. Just be sure to properly maintain the tent when not in use.
Maintenance Tips for Your King’s Roof Top Tent
Follow these care instructions for the best results:
- Always completely dry out the interior before closing up to prevent mold.
- Sweep out dirt and debris which can abrade fabric and seams.
- Spot clean canvas with warm water and mild detergent. Air dry completely.
- Lubricate locks and hinges periodically with silicone spray.
- Check for tears or abrasions in the canvas and seal with tenacious tape or tent sealant immediately to avoid leaks.
- Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasives, or solvents that deteriorate the waterproof coatings.
- Check the tension of fabrics. Re-tighten any loose canvas.
- Inspect the aluminum poles for any potential cracks or dents.
- Keep stored tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from pests, sun, and moisture.
- Consider using a breathable tent storage bag for best protection.
With proper care, a quality King’s rooftop tent will deliver years of reliable off-road, basecamp, and overlanding performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About King’s Roof Top Tents
How difficult is it to mount a King’s rooftop tent?
For safe and secure installation, it’s highly recommended to have the tent professionally installed by a qualified auto technician. The initial mounting does require drilling into the roof.
What vehicles are compatible with King’s tents?
King’s tents come in sizes and mounting configurations to work on most standard trucks, SUVs, crossovers, and roof racks. The website has a fit guide tool to confirm compatibility.
How noisy are rooftop tents in wind and rain?
The hard shells are surprisingly quiet and insulated when fully closed. Most driving noise is also dampened. But expect to hear some added wind, rain, and debris noise compared to in a vehicle.
Will condensation be an issue?
The waterproof/breathable fabrics minimize condensation along with using integrated rainfly and mesh windows for needed airflow. Keeping windows partially open helps too.
How cold weather capable are the tents?
Most models remain comfortable into cooler fall/spring temps. Thermoplastic liners enhance insulation greatly for true 4-season reliability. Portable heaters also help.
What maintenance is required?
Maintenance involves lubricating hinges, checking/repairing any tears immediately, thoroughly drying before storage, removing debris, and proper storage.
Can you completely dry out a rooftop tent before packing it up?
Yes, leaving the fly open for a few hours until the interior is 100% dry is recommended. Absorbent towels also help collect any residual moisture.
How secure are rooftop tents from theft or animal intrusions?
When closed, tents are very secure and inaccessible from the ground. Optional gear lofts offer lockable storage. Keep food secured.
How easy is it for kids or pets to use the ladders?
Telescoping locking ladders are very secure and stable for most users. Spotting timid climbers is recommended until they gain confidence.
My Closing Words
For overland vehicles, King’s rooftop tents provide rugged yet comfortable lodging on your adventures. Choosing the right size, weather protection, and features for your needs results in a perfect modular camper. With proper installation and care, a King’s tent will deliver years of remote, elevated camping convenience quickly at the push of a button.
