Can you put a rooftop tent on a Subaru Ascent?
You can mount a rooftop tent on a Subaru Ascent, provided you use a properly rated roof rack system and stay within the vehicle’s roof-load rating.
The Ascent ships with roof rails and accepts aftermarket crossbars, but the deciding factor is the combined weight of the tent, rack, and gear. Always verify the specific roof-load limit in the owner's manual and follow the tent manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
Key considerations before mounting a rooftop tent
Mounting a rooftop tent involves several practical considerations beyond simply buying a tent. Weight, alignment, and aerodynamics all influence performance on the road and at the campsite.
- Check the vehicle’s maximum roof-load rating in the owner’s manual (this includes the rack and any gear).
- Choose a roof rack system that is OEM-approved or has a proven track record for rooftop-tent use, with crossbars spaced to fit the tent’s footprint.
- Confirm the tent’s weight and the rack’s weight together don’t exceed the roof-load limit.
- Use the mounting hardware specifically designed for your rack and tent; follow the installation instructions carefully.
- Be mindful of wind, height clearance, and potential legal restrictions on height in certain areas or campsites.
Adhering to these checks helps safeguard the vehicle’s structure, preserves handling, and reduces the risk of component failure while traveling.
Choosing the right rack and tent for the Ascent
Selection hinges on matching the tent’s footprint and weight to a compatible rack system, while maintaining safe weight distribution and adequate ground clearance.
- Rooftop tent size and weight: opt for a two- or three-person RTT that fits your cargo needs without pushing the roof load to its limit.
- Rack system: use crossbars and towers rated for the total weight; consider OEM rails with aftermarket crossbars or a dedicated RTT rack.
- Footprint and bar spacing: ensure the tent aligns with the crossbars and that there’s sufficient support across the entire footprint.
- Durability and security: look for corrosion-resistant hardware and locking mechanisms to deter theft and wear.
With the right combination, the Ascent can support extended camping setups without compromising safety or performance.
Practical installation steps
Install the system in stages and verify fit, security, and clearance at each step to prevent damage during travel.
- Install the crossbars or roof rack per manufacturer torque specs, ensuring a level, secure base.
- Position the rooftop tent centrally over the crossbars and loosely secure it with clamps or straps.
- Center the tent over the rails, then tighten all mounting points evenly to spec.
- Conduct a short test drive to check for movement; re-torque as recommended by the tent and rack manufacturers.
Careful, methodical installation reduces rattles, wear, and the chance of loosening while driving.
Safety and ongoing considerations
Rooftop setups can affect handling, fuel economy, and clearance. Regularly inspect hardware and follow best practices for loading and travel.
- Avoid exceeding the roof-load rating; remember the sum of tent, rack, and gear counts toward the limit.
- Be mindful of height restrictions in parking structures, garages, and natural areas with low clearance.
- Drive with caution in wind gusts or on rough roads; keep the tent closed while in transit and only open at campsites.
Staying aware of these factors helps ensure safe operation and a longer service life for both the vehicle and the tent system.
Warranty, legality, and best practices
Using a rooftop tent is generally compatible with Subaru warranties when installed correctly. Incorrect installation or exceeding roof-load limits can affect warranty coverage and safety. Always consult Subaru’s guidance and the RTT rack manufacturer’s instructions. Local camping and travel regulations typically focus on height limits and campsite rules, not on rooftop tents per se, but it’s wise to check ahead.
Summary
A rooftop tent can be mounted on a Subaru Ascent if you use a properly rated roof rack, stay within the vehicle’s roof-load rating, and follow the manufacturers’ installation instructions. Plan ahead by selecting a compatible rack and tent, verify weight limits, and perform a careful, staged installation. With the right setup, the Ascent can serve as a capable base for comfortable, on-the-road camping trips.
