Have you ever wondered what those giant boxes are on top of off-road rigs? If you’re unfamiliar with them, they’re likely a rooftop tent (RTT). Today, I want to show you another option in the softshell RTT category.
Rugged Ridge, owned by RealTruck, has released its soft shell RTT which is a durable and affordable option for explorers who want comfort while exploring the great outdoors. The tent offers quick setup, weather resistance, and all the features you need for a good camping experience. Plus, it fits perfectly within the footprint of the Tacoma’s short bed.
Table Of Contents
Overview
Specifications
- Durable 600D poly-coated polyester construction
- Strong aluminum base for stability
- Highly functional design sleeps three with 660 lb. load capacity
- Built-in door & window flaps with mosquito netting
- Strong layered aluminum base
- Waterproof 600D poly-coated polyester shell for travel
- Includes a three-inch high-density foam mattress
- Rainfly cover included for keeping contents dry
- Extra-wide extending ladder offers stable tent access
- Dimensions: 95W x 56L x 51H
- Five-year limited warranty
The tent comes with a foam mattress and comfortably sleeps two adults. Ventilation is excellent, thanks to large mesh windows with zipped covers. The polyester fabric is UV- and mildew-resistant, while the aluminum frame provides stability against strong winds.
Setting up the tent takes about 3 minutes, with the sliding ladder and folding mechanism making the process straightforward. Packing it down was equally easy, and the durable PVC cover kept the tent clean during transit.
PROS
- Quick setup and takedown
- Durable, weather-resistant materials
- Spacious interior with a comfortable mattress
- Relatively well priced
CONS
- Weight typically requires two people for installation
- Price may be steep for casual campers
- Limited headroom for taller individuals
Unboxing
The tent came packaged well and I did not observe any damage or issues upon delivery. Inside the tent were all the hardware, accessories, and ladder. All the extra items were wrapped in bubble wrap or plastic to protect them in shipping.
What’s Included
- The tent (pre-assembled)
- Mounting hardware
- Telescoping aluminum ladder
- Weatherproof PVC cover
- Additional shoe/storage bag
- Instruction manual
Unboxing a RTT can evoke excitement and curiosity about its features and setup. I was initially concerned about the increased weight compared to a ground tent, but it also felt a lot more sturdy.
The tent’s main fabric was durable, and I’m hopeful it will stand the test of time in the Arizona sun. The aluminum frame and base layers appeared to be just as good.
Installation Overview
The tent is designed to be easily and universally be mounted onto a bed or roof rack. The aluminum mounting rails are universal and should be compatible with most setups. Installation took me about 90 minutes with a friend’s help lifting it up onto the truck.
RealTruck also has a detailed installation video on their main product page, I found it helpful to watch it before I started.
Initial Impressions
When I first climbed into the tent, I was surprised by the spaciousness. Opening all the windows floods the interior with light and makes it feel very roomy.
For sleeping, I did not expect a folded-up tent mattress to be as comfortable as it was.
Each side of the tent has windows that can be opened for airflow and views or closed for privacy. Two sides have doors with screens while the opposing two sides have windows with no door opening. Together, they create a very comfortable living space during camping trips.
The tent includes two mesh hammocks that can be installed inside for storage and two exterior hanging shoe bags so you don’t bring debris into your tent.
Set Up
Setting up the tent is straightforward, though it does require some preparation. Choosing the right spot is important for a good, comfy night’s sleep. Ensure you park on a level surface or have the ability to level your vehicle.
You’ll first need to unzip the PVC cover and pull it off the tent. The cover is attached to the tent base so you can just let it hang. Next, disconnect all of the Velcro straps that hold the tent down in place.
To unfold the tent, extend the ladder and pull down on it like a lever. Once the tent is unfolded, adjust the ladder so it is locked in place – it’s best to position the ladder at an angle away from the truck. This helps support the tent and makes ingress and egress easier.
Finally, grab all the tent poles and extend the window awnings. I installed the tent on my truck’s mid-height bed rack, so it sits lower than the cab and I’m unable to extend the awning that faces the cab.
With the exterior all ready to go, climb into the tent, make sure the mattress is folded flat, and get your bedding situated. Before heading to sleep, it’s a good idea to give everything a once over.
Final Thoughts
I’m super excited to take this thing out on adventures and put it to the test. It’s my first RTT and even after a few nights, I can already tell it’ll be WAY more comfortable than a ground tent, especially in the Fall and Winter months. Being up and away from the dirt, critters, and rocks is a bonus. Plus, I don’t need to worry about mud if it’s raining.
This is a solid option for overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for their first tent but don’t want to shell out several thousand dollars for premium tents. While it is a little heavier (normal for this category), it has solid build quality, is easy to use, and most importantly, is super comfortable.
Whether you’re going for an overnight trip or a multi-day overlanding adventure, this tent will reliably provide you with a comfortable night’s sleep.
