Can I put a roof top tent on my Subaru Forester?
Yes—it's possible, but you must stay within the Forester's roof-load rating and use a lightweight RTT with a proper roof rack. The total weight on the roof, including the tent, rack, and any accessories, must stay within the vehicle’s designated limit. The rest of this article explains how to assess ratings, choose gear, and install it safely.
Rooftop tents offer camping convenience, but they require careful planning. Forester models vary by year and trim, so it's essential to verify the exact roof-load rating and the capacity of any rack system before mounting a tent. In addition to weight, consider height clearance, aerodynamics, and the impact on handling and warranty considerations.
Understanding the limits
Before you mount a RTT, you need to understand the vehicle’s constraints and how they translate to real-world use.
Key constraints when mounting a RTT on a Forester
- Check your model’s roof load rating in the owner's manual or a Subaru official source. Most Forester models list a dynamic roof load around 150 pounds (68 kg), which includes the tent, rack, and any payload on the roof.
- Weigh the RTT and mounting hardware. Lightweight two-person tents often range from about 60–90 pounds (27–41 kg); heavier options can exceed 100 pounds (45 kg). Ensure the combined weight stays below the dynamic rating.
- Account for crossbar load rating and mounting hardware. The roof rack itself must be rated for the total payload; do not exceed the rack’s own limits.
- Understand dynamic versus static ratings. Static ratings can be higher, but the dynamic (while driving) rating is the critical figure to respect; never exceed the dynamic limit.
- Check fitment and clearance. Ensure the RTT width and length fit between or over the crossbars without interfering with doors, sunroof, antennas, or other roof components.
- Consider wind resistance and fuel economy. A RTT increases drag and overall roof height, which can affect performance at highway speeds and fuel consumption.
- Review insurance and warranty considerations. Some policies require disclosure of roof-mounted gear; verify with your insurer and check whether aftermarket modifications affect your Subaru warranty.
Careful planning helps prevent overload and ensures safer handling on highways and rough terrain alike.
Choosing the right gear
Selecting a lightweight, properly mounted system is crucial to staying within the Forester’s limits while maintaining safety and performance.
Lightweight RTTs and mounting options to consider
- Look for RTTs in roughly the 60–90 pound range (27–41 kg), depending on size and construction, and verify the exact weight with the manufacturer.
- Choose a roof rack system compatible with your Forester’s year and trim (factory rails or fixed rails) and rated for the total load.
- Prefer soft-shell or lighter hard-shell designs if you want to minimize weight; some hard-shell models can push the upper end of the weight budget.
- Ensure the mounting interface (clamps, tracks, or bolts) matches your crossbars and rack hardware, and that it can be securely locked to deter theft.
- Consider a lower-profile roof rack design to reduce wind resistance and height, while still providing adequate support and clearance for the tent.
Choosing gear that fits within the Forester’s limits while meeting your camping needs helps ensure a safe, durable setup that lasts for many trips.
Installation steps
When you’ve selected the tent and rack, follow a careful installation process to maximize safety and performance.
Step-by-step installation flow
- Confirm you have the correct roof rack system for your Forester’s year and trim (factory rails or aftermarket crossbars). Verify compatibility with the RTT mounting hardware.
- Weigh the RTT and mounting hardware; calculate the total roof payload and compare it to the vehicle’s dynamic rating. Reassess if the total would exceed limits.
- Assemble the RTT and mounting hardware in a clear, level area. Attach mounting brackets to the rails as specified by the manufacturer and torque to the recommended values.
- Place the tent on the crossbars, align its center with the vehicle’s centerline, and secure it using all supplied hardware. Check for even contact and minimal movement.
- Perform a low-speed test drive to check stability. Re-tighten fasteners as needed after a short drive, and recheck after off-road use or temperature changes.
If you’re unsure about any step, consider professional installation or guidance from the RTT manufacturer. Regular checks, especially after trips, ensure continued safety and performance.
Summary
A roof-top tent can be mounted on a Subaru Forester, but success hinges on staying within the vehicle’s roof-load limits and selecting a lightweight tent paired with a compatible rack system. By verifying ratings in your manual, choosing appropriate gear, and following a careful installation process, you can enjoy roof-top camping without compromising safety or reliability. Always recheck weights and clearances before long trips, and consult a professional if in doubt.
How do I know if my car can handle a roof top tent?
Dynamic Load Rating (While Driving)
This is the maximum weight your vehicle's roof can handle while in motion. It's the number that really matters when you're considering a rooftop tent. Most vehicles have a dynamic load rating between 50kg and 100kg.
What is the roof load limit on a Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has a dynamic roof weight limit of 176 lbs (80 kg) while driving, which is the maximum weight you can have on the roof while the vehicle is in motion. The static weight limit, or the limit when the vehicle is parked, is 650-700 lbs (approx. 300 kg). It is important to include the weight of the roof rack itself when calculating the total load to stay within limits.
Dynamic vs. Static Weight Limits
- Dynamic (while driving): 176176176 lbs (808080 kg)
- Static (when parked): 650−700650 minus 700650−700 lbs ( 300space 300 300 kg)
Important Considerations
- Total weight: The total weight on the roof includes the weight of the roof rack itself, plus any gear or accessories on top of it.
- Wilderness models: Some higher trims, like the Wilderness, may have a higher capacity. For example, a 2022 Wilderness model has a dynamic capacity of 220220220 lbs and a static limit of 880880880 lbs.
- Aftermarket racks: If you plan to use a roof-top tent, it is highly recommended to check the weight rating of your specific aftermarket crossbars, as they may be different from the factory-installed ones.
- Damage risk: Exceeding these limits could damage the vehicle, so it's best to stay within the manufacturer's recommendations.
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.
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!
