If you love camping and outdoor adventures, a roof top tent can be a great investment It allows you to sleep off the ground, stay safe from wildlife, and enjoy beautiful views from above However, purchasing a commercial hard shell roof top tent can be expensive Luckily, with some creativity and DIY skills, you can build your own hard shell roof top tent at a fraction of the cost In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Hard shell suitcase or similar sturdy container
– Marine-grade plywood
– Hinges
– Latches
– Mattress
– Fabric for the tent cover
– Foam insulation
– Mounting hardware
– Tools like a drill, saw, screwdriver, and measuring tape
Steps to Build Your DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent:
1 Start by finding a hard shell suitcase or a similar container that is sturdy and can withstand outdoor elements This will serve as the base of your roof top tent Make sure it is big enough to fit a mattress and some extra space for your camping gear.
2 Using marine-grade plywood, cut out a platform that fits snugly inside the suitcase This will provide a stable base for your mattress Attach the plywood to the bottom of the suitcase using hinges, so it can be easily folded out when setting up the tent.
3 Install latches on the sides of the suitcase to keep it securely closed while driving You don’t want your tent popping open on the highway!
4 Now it’s time to create the tent cover Measure and cut out fabric that will cover the plywood platform and extend over the edges to provide shelter from the elements diy hard shell roof top tent. Sew the fabric together, leaving a zippered opening for easy access to the inside of the tent.
5 Line the interior of the suitcase with foam insulation to provide some comfort and insulation while sleeping This will help regulate the temperature inside the tent, keeping you warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather.
6 Once the interior is insulated, place a mattress on top of the plywood platform Make sure it fits snugly inside the tent and provides enough cushioning for a good night’s sleep.
7 Attach mounting hardware to the bottom of the suitcase to secure it to the roof of your vehicle Make sure it is strong enough to support the weight of the tent and any occupants.
8 When you’re ready to hit the road, simply mount the DIY hard shell roof top tent to the roof of your vehicle using the mounting hardware Fold out the plywood platform, unzip the tent cover, and you’re ready to camp in style!
Benefits of a DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent:
Building your own hard shell roof top tent has several advantages Firstly, it’s a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a commercial tent, saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars Secondly, you have the flexibility to customize the design and size of the tent to suit your specific needs And finally, it’s a fun and rewarding DIY project that will give you a sense of accomplishment every time you use it.
In conclusion, a DIY hard shell roof top tent is a fantastic addition to any camping trip With some basic materials and tools, you can create your very own custom tent that will provide comfort, shelter, and convenience while exploring the great outdoors So why not roll up your sleeves and get started on building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent today?