Can I put a rooftop tent on my Subaru?
Yes, you can generally mount a rooftop tent on many Subaru models, provided your roof rack system and the vehicle’s roof-load rating are compatible and you stay within the weight limits. This guide explains how to assess compatibility, choose the right gear, install safely, and consider practical implications.
Rooftop tents are popular for overlanding and camping, but the key to a safe and enjoyable setup on a Subaru is to respect weight limits, secure mounting, and proper fitting to your specific model and year. The following sections cover what to check, what equipment you’ll need, and how to install and maintain the system while driving and camping.
Assessing compatibility with your Subaru
To determine if your car can safely support a rooftop tent, check three things: the roof load rating, the roof rack system, and the tent's weight.
- Roof load rating for dynamic driving (as specified in your owner's manual) to know the maximum weight allowed on the roof while the vehicle is in motion.
- Whether your Subaru has factory rails or a bare roof and if the existing crossbars are rated to carry a rooftop tent.
- Mounting compatibility between your crossbars/tloor system and the tent’s mounting hardware (some tents require specific track or leg configurations).
- The total weight on the roof: tent weight + rack + gear inside or on top should not exceed the roof-load limit.
- Height clearance and tunnel or garage restrictions when the tent is mounted and opened, as well as clearance under carports and drive-throughs.
- Any warranty or dealer recommendations: some modifications may require guidance to avoid affecting warranties or vehicle electronics.
Bottom line: If your model/year supports the additional roof load and your rack and tent are properly matched, a rooftop tent can be a viable option. If not, you may need to explore lighter tents, different mounting configurations, or alternative camping setups.
Choosing the right gear
Before you buy, consider the weight, compatibility, and mounting system to ensure a safe fit on your Subaru.
- Weight-rated crossbars and towers rated for rooftop tents; ensure the system’s total dynamic load rating can accommodate the tent plus gear.
- A rooftop tent that fits your crossbar spread and foot/rail type; some tents lock to specific bar shapes or require certain mounting hardware.
- Lightweight tent options (soft-shell or smaller hard-shell tents) to keep the roof load within limits while still meeting your space needs.
- Mounting hardware included by the tent manufacturer and any adapters required for your Subaru’s rails or factory roof racks.
- Locking and weather-sealing features to deter theft and protect the interior during rain or snow.
Bottom line: The right combination of lighter tent, compatible crossbars, and proper mounting hardware is key to a safe and practical setup on a Subaru.
Installation steps and best practices
Proper installation is essential for safety and performance. Follow these steps in order to minimize risk and ensure a secure setup.
- Confirm the roof rails and crossbars are fully installed and rated for the requested load; ensure all components are in good condition.
- Measure the distance between crossbar brackets to match the tent’s mounting footprint; align mounting feet with the rails as specified by the tent manufacturer.
- Install the crossbars or towers first, then attach the tent mounting feet to the crossbars per the manufacturer’s torque specifications.
- Secure all clamps, lugs, and fasteners; use a torque wrench where required and re-check after initial road tests.
- Distribute weight evenly across the roof and avoid placing heavy gear on one side; keep interior items off the roof to prevent unbalanced loads.
- Conduct a ground test by opening and closing the tent once mounted to check fit, then perform a short test drive at low speeds to confirm stability.
- Re-check all fasteners after the first few trips and after significant temperature changes, which can affect fitment.
Bottom line: Careful installation and periodic checks are essential to maintain safety and performance over time.
Safety considerations and practical tips
Consider how a rooftop tent changes your vehicle’s dynamics and daily use. These tips help you stay safe and comfortable on and off the road.
- Expect higher wind resistance and a modest drop in fuel economy; plan accordingly for long trips.
- Always re-tighten mounts after long drives, hot/cold cycles, or after leaving the tent deployed for extended periods.
- Be mindful of clearance height when entering garages, gas stations with canopies, or carports.
- Check weather seals and tent ventilation; rain leaks or condensation can occur if mounting hardware is compromised.
- Avoid overloading the roof with gear; distribute weight inside the tent and keep the total roof load under the rated limit.
Bottom line: A rooftop tent on a Subaru adds camping capability but requires mindful planning, regular checks, and awareness of height and wind effects.
Maintenance, warranty, and practical considerations
Ongoing care and planning can keep your roof setup reliable and protect your investment.
- Regularly inspect mounting hardware for signs of wear, rust, or loosening; tighten as recommended by the manufacturer.
- When not camping, consider removing the tent to reduce wind load and improve gas mileage, if you rarely use it.
- Check with your Subaru dealer about any warranty implications of adding roof racks and a rooftop tent, especially if you have an active warranty or driver-assistance features.
- Keep a clear height awareness habit; know the typical height of the vehicle with the tent deployed for parking structures and garages.
Bottom line: Regular maintenance and clear understanding of warranty implications help you enjoy rooftop camping without surprises.
Summary and final thoughts
In most cases, a rooftop tent can be mounted on a Subaru, provided you choose a compatible crossbar system, respect the roof-load rating, and install everything correctly. Start with a careful assessment of your model/year’s load rating, select gear that matches your roof’s footprint, and follow manufacturer guidelines for installation and maintenance. By balancing weight, fit, and safety, you can expand your Subaru’s camping capabilities without compromising handling or durability.
Quick takeaway
Yes—with the right rack system and careful attention to weight limits, a rooftop tent can be a practical, enjoyable upgrade for many Subarus. Always verify model-specific guidance and consider lighter tent options to stay within your vehicle’s roof load rating.
Can my vehicle support a rooftop tent?
To determine if your vehicle can support a rooftop tent, check your owner's manual or contact the dealer for the dynamic weight capacity of your roof rack. This is the weight the roof can hold while driving, and rooftop tents typically weigh between 100 and 200 lbs. SUVs, trucks, and larger vehicles are generally more suitable, while some sedans, hatchbacks, and cars with clamp-on style roof bars may not be compatible.
Key factors to check
- Dynamic weight capacity: This is the most crucial number, as it determines how much weight your roof can safely carry while the vehicle is moving.
- Static weight capacity: This is the weight your roof can support when the vehicle is parked, with the tent set up and occupants inside. It is typically much higher than the dynamic capacity.
- Rack type: Most factory-installed racks have a lower dynamic weight limit than aftermarket racks. Clamp-on systems that attach to the door frame are generally not suitable for rooftop tents.
- Roof type: Some vehicles, like those with glass or panoramic roofs, may have structural limitations that require extra verification. Convertibles are generally not suitable.
How to check your vehicle's compatibility
- Consult your vehicle's manual: The most direct way to find your roof's weight limits is to check your owner's manual.
- Check manufacturer websites: Many aftermarket rack companies, such as Yakima, have a "Fit My Vehicle" tool on their website that can help you determine compatibility.
- Evaluate your rack system: If you have an aftermarket rack, check its specifications. You may need to upgrade to a more robust system with a higher dynamic load rating, such as from Thule, Yakima, or Rhino-Rack.
- Consider your vehicle type: While many cars can technically support a tent, SUVs and trucks are often better suited due to their typically higher roof load capacities.
Can you put a rooftop tent on a Subaru?
Installing a rooftop tent on a Subaru Crosstrek will require deciding on an appropriate roof rack system. Options are infinite but I have grouped them into these three: Crossbars over the OEM side rails: This is the simplest, low weight, and far more economical option.
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?
about 176lbs
Assuming you have roof rails, the limit in motion is about 176lbs (80kg) including the weight of cross bars and all attachments.
