For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, having a reliable and comfortable place to rest and sleep is essential Roof top tents have become increasingly popular among campers and travelers because of their convenience and versatility But purchasing a ready-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive If you’re a handy DIY enthusiast looking for a fun project, building your own hard shell roof top tent could be a great option.
In this guide, we will take you through the steps and materials needed to construct your own DIY hard shell roof top tent With a bit of patience and creativity, you can customize your tent to suit your preferences and save money in the process.
Materials Needed:
– Hardshell roof rack
– Marine-grade plywood
– Foam insulation
– Fabric or canvas for tent cover
– Hinges and bolts
– Latches
– Bed platform or mattress
– Tools: drill, saw, screwdriver, measuring tape
Step 1: Design and Measurements
Before you start gathering materials, it’s important to come up with a design for your roof top tent Consider the size of your vehicle, how many people will be sleeping in the tent, and any other features you want to include Once you have a clear idea of what you want, take precise measurements of your roof rack to ensure the tent will fit properly.
Step 2: Build the Base
Using marine-grade plywood, cut out the base of the tent according to your measurements This will serve as the foundation of your tent and provide a sturdy platform for sleeping Make sure to add foam insulation between the plywood layers for added comfort and warmth.
Step 3: Construct the Tent Cover
Choose a durable fabric or canvas material for the tent cover Sew the fabric to fit the dimensions of the plywood base, leaving an opening for the entrance Attach the fabric to the base using hinges and bolts, allowing it to fold up and down easily diy hard shell roof top tent. Add weatherproofing treatments to the fabric to protect it from rain and other elements.
Step 4: Install Hardware
To secure the tent cover in place when it’s closed, add latches to the sides of the base This will prevent the tent from opening while you’re driving or in windy conditions Make sure the latches are securely fastened to keep the tent safe and secure.
Step 5: Add the Mattress or Bed Platform
To make your DIY hard shell roof top tent comfortable for sleeping, add a mattress or bed platform to the base You can either purchase a ready-made mattress that fits the dimensions of the tent or build a custom platform using foam padding and fabric Make sure the mattress is secure and won’t shift during use.
Step 6: Test and Finalize
Once you’ve completed the construction of your DIY hard shell roof top tent, it’s important to do a test run before taking it out on your adventures Set up the tent on your vehicle’s roof rack and make sure it opens and closes smoothly Test the latches to ensure they hold the tent securely in place Once you’re satisfied with the results, finalize any last-minute adjustments and enhancements.
Building a DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a rewarding project that saves you money and gives you a sense of accomplishment With the right materials and tools, you can create a custom tent that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor experiences So roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and get ready to embark on your next camping adventure in style with your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.