Can a rooftop tent go on a Subaru Forester?
Yes — a rooftop tent can be mounted on a Subaru Forester, but only with a proper roof rack system and within the vehicle’s weight limits.
This guide explains how to verify compatibility, choose racks and a tent, install safely, and stay within legal and warranty boundaries. It focuses on Forester models from recent generations and the common rooftop tent options available today.
Assessing compatibility: roof rails, crossbars and weight
Key considerations
Before you buy, confirm that your Forester’s roof can support a tent and that you have a compatible mounting system. The vehicle’s roof load rating and the rack’s capabilities determine whether an RTT is practical.
- Check the roof load rating in your owner’s manual. Most Forester models offer a roof capacity around 150 pounds (68 kg) with crossbars installed, which includes the weight of the rack and tent.
- Verify that your roof rails or factory rails accept aftermarket crossbars and that the crossbar spread matches the tent’s footprint.
- Consider the RTT’s weight and the ladder; typical tents range from about 100 to 180+ pounds depending on size and materials.
- Account for dynamic loading (while driving) versus static loading (while stationary); dynamic ratings are lower and more critical for safety.
In short, your Forester can accommodate an RTT if you choose a compatible rack system and stay well under the rated load. Always consult your year’s manual and the rack/tent manufacturers for exact specs.
Choosing a rack and tent combo
Mounting options to consider
Selecting the right combination involves ensuring the rack, crossbars, and mounting hardware work with your Forester’s roof geometry and weight budget.
- Rack compatibility: pick crossbars or a mounting system rated to support the combined weight of the RTT, ladder, and gear, and ensure clamps fit your Forester’s rails (OEM or aftermarket).
- Footprint and spread: measure the RTT base width and compare it to the distance between your crossbars to avoid overhang or obstruction.
- Mounting hardware: look for hardware that securely clamps to rails and provides lockable ladder mounting points; verify warranty compatibility.
- Vehicle height and clearance: taller setups increase risk of garage clearance and fuel economy impact; consider roof height in planning.
- Wind noise and aerodynamics: some setups benefit from wind fairings or aerodynamic racks to reduce drag and noise.
Choosing the right rack-tent combo reduces installation headaches and helps maintain safety on the road. Double-check fitment with the tent manufacturer’s fit kit and your Forester’s rails or tracks before purchasing.
Selecting the right rooftop tent for a Forester
RTT sizing and features to compare
When choosing a rooftop tent for a Forester, size, weight, and compatibility with your roof setup are the top priorities. Consider how much space you need and how the tent will affect driving height and fuel economy.
- Capacity and footprint: decide between 2-person and 3-person tents; ensure the base footprint fits between your crossbars and leaves space for the ladder.
- Weight: lighter tents ease installation and keep you within the roof’s load rating; heavier models require stronger racks and careful weight budgeting.
- Height and access: evaluate closed height for garage clearance and parking structures; check ladder length and entry orientation for comfortable access.
- Weather resistance and build quality: look for durable fabrics, solid rainfly performance, and sturdy ladder hardware for reliable use in varying conditions.
- Installation complexity: some tents are quick to set up and break down, while others take longer; factor in your camping style and patience.
With the right RTT size and a compatible rack, Forester owners can expand camping options without sacrificing safety or daily usability. Always verify the combined weight and footprint against your vehicle’s ratings before making a purchase.
Installation tips and safety
Once you have the rack system and RTT, follow these steps to install safely and maintain the setup during trips.
- Distribute weight evenly: place the RTT mounting feet across multiple crossbars to avoid point loading on a single bar.
- Secure mounting hardware: torque bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications; use lock nuts or locking mechanisms where offered.
- Check clearance: ensure ladder attachment points don’t interfere with doors, sunroofs (if equipped), or roof seals; verify that the tent won’t contact the roof rails or antennae.
- Lock and secure: use theft-resistant hardware or locks on both the rack and the tent; keep ladder tucked when driving at highway speeds.
- Regular inspections: after long highway drives or rough roads, re-check all fasteners and ladder connections for looseness or wear.
Important safety note: do not drive with the tent deployed on the roof; always retract and secure before moving, and be mindful of height limits in parking structures, garages, and low-clearance areas.
Summary
Rooftop tents can be a practical addition to a Subaru Forester, provided you use a proper roof rack system and stay within the vehicle’s rated load. Verify the roof load rating for your year, select compatible crossbars, and choose an RTT that fits your footprint and weight budget. Proper installation, secure mounting, and ongoing maintenance are essential for safe, enjoyable camping on the road.
What is the weakness of a Subaru Forester?
Oil Consumption
Many drivers have reported that they need to get their oil changed more frequently than they have had to in other cars. This is likely due to oil cracks or leaks in the camshaft and crankshaft seals as well as the oil pump seal.
What is the weight limit on the roof rack of a Subaru Forester?
The dynamic roof rack weight limit for most Subaru Foresters is 176 lbs (80 kg), which includes the weight of the crossbars, rack, and all cargo. The static weight capacity for the roof when the vehicle is parked is significantly higher, around 700 lbs, which is important to consider for activities like setting up a rooftop tent with people inside, as explained in this Reddit post and this ALNSM Overland article.
This video explains how to determine the weight capacity of your roof rack: 59sOverland Explorers UKYouTube · Feb 24, 2018
Dynamic weight limit (while driving)
- Limit: 176 lbs (80 kg)
- Includes: The total weight of crossbars, rack, and all cargo
- Why it's important: Overloading while in motion can affect the vehicle's stability and safety.
Static weight limit (when parked)
- Limit: Approximately 700 lbs (317 kg)
- When to consider: This capacity is for when the vehicle is stationary and is relevant for activities like rooftop tenting, where occupants will be inside the tent.
- Why it's important: The roof and pillars are designed to support the vehicle's weight in a rollover scenario, so the static capacity is much higher than the dynamic limit.
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: The exact limits can vary by model year, so always consult your specific owner's manual for the most accurate information.
- Component limits: The total weight capacity is limited by the weakest component in your roof setup. A more robust aftermarket rack might have a higher rating, but the vehicle's dynamic limit still applies.
Can a Subaru Forester handle a rooftop tent?
Can You Put a Roof Top Tent on a Subaru Forester? Yes, you can absolutely put a rooftop tent on a Subaru Forester!
Can you put a roof rack on a Subaru Forester?
Yes, you can install an aftermarket Subaru roof rack on your car.
