Can a Subaru Outback carry a roof top tent?
Yes—but only if you stay within the roof’s load limit and choose a light RTT with proper mounting hardware.
Roof-top tents offer elevated sleeping space and quick setup, and many Outback owners mount them successfully. The key is to understand the roof load rating, the vehicle’s payload, and the weight of the tent plus mounting gear, then plan accordingly to avoid overloading the roof or compromising handling.
Understanding the roof load and payload
The main constraint is how much weight the roof can safely bear, especially while the vehicle is in motion. For most modern Outbacks, the dynamic roof load rating is about 165 pounds (75 kilograms). This figure includes the tent, mounting hardware, crossbars, and any other overhead gear. Your exact rating can vary by model year and trim, so always check your owner's manual for your specific vehicle.
What counts toward the limit
Any weight on the roof–the RTT itself, the mounting hardware, crossbars, and even wind deflection–contributes to the dynamic load. In addition, you must consider the vehicle’s overall payload: the combined weight of passengers, cargo, and roof gear. Exceeding these limits can affect handling, braking, and component wear.
Key planning factors to weigh before mounting a roof-top tent:
- Roof load rating (dynamic): roughly 165 pounds on many Outbacks; verify in your manual.
- RTT weight (dry weight) and additional gear: 60–110 pounds is common for compact to mid-size tents; heavier expedition tents can push 120 pounds or more.
- Mounting hardware weight: crossbars, clamps, and adapters add a few to several pounds depending on the system.
- Vehicle payload: subtract occupant weight and cargo from the gross vehicle weight to find remaining roof capacity.
- Wind and driving conditions: higher speeds and gusts increase dynamic load on the roof.
In practice, many Outback owners choose lighter RTTs and keep total roof weight well under the typical 165-pound limit to maintain safety margins.
Choosing an RTT for an Outback
To balance comfort, safety, and price, focus on weight, size, and mounting compatibility. The Outback supports a range of RTTs, but the safest option for daily use is a lighter, compact tent designed for roof racks rather than industrial expedition gear.
Considerations when selecting a tent:
- Weight: prioritize light dry weight; factor in mounting hardware to stay under the roof limit.
- Size: ensure the tent fits your roof length and doesn’t overhang dangerously beyond the vehicle’s footprint.
- Mounting system compatibility: confirm your crossbars or rails support the RTT’s mounting brackets and weight.
- Ventilation and insulation: depending on climate, you may want a tent with good airflow or extra warmth.
- Weatherproofing and durability: check fabric quality, zippers, and rainfly for your camping conditions.
With careful selection, you can achieve a comfortable camping setup without compromising safety.
Installation and safety basics
Safe installation begins with verified hardware and correct mounting. Following manufacturer instructions reduces the risk of loosening or damage on the road.
- Verify that your roof rails and crossbars are rated to carry the RTT weight and are correctly installed.
- Attach mounting brackets to crossbars using the hardware supplied by the RTT kit; ensure clamps are tight and evenly distributed.
- Place the RTT on the crossbars and secure it per the manufacturer’s guidelines; use any provided anti-vibration pads or tie-downs.
- Distribute weight toward the center of the roof and keep a balanced load front-to-back to minimize wind effects.
- Perform a test drive at low speeds, then re-torque and re-check mounts after a few trips or rough roads.
If you’re unsure about compatibility or installation, consult a shop that specializes in roof-top tents or refer to Subaru’s official guidance for your model year.
Real-world considerations and tips
Owners report that a roof-top tent can enhance camping versatility, but it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Lighter tents tend to offer the best balance of comfort and safety on an Outback, especially if you regularly drive with passengers or heavy cargo inside the vehicle.
- When in doubt, err on the side of a lighter RTT to maintain margin above the roof’s dynamic load rating.
- Consider a shorter or two-person tent to reduce weight without sacrificing usability.
- Be mindful of wind at campsites; high winds can increase roof loads significantly.
- Account for reduced fuel economy due to wind resistance and roof height.
Overall, the Outback is capable of carrying an RTT if you plan carefully and prioritize weight discipline and proper mounting.
Summary
In short, a Subaru Outback can carry a roof-top tent, provided you stay within the vehicle’s roof load rating (about 165 pounds dynamic for most models) and keep total weight on the roof well under that limit. Choose a lightweight RTT, use a compatible roof rack system, mount it securely, and pay attention to payload and wind conditions. Always consult your specific model year’s manual for exact ratings and installation guidelines to ensure a safe, enjoyable camping experience.
