My love for wild camping, outdoor adventures, and spontaneous road trips led me to the world of car roof camping. Having spotted a few on my travels, the freedom intrigued me. I started digging in, and the more I learned, the more convinced I became – a Tentbox seemed like the ultimate game-changer. It offered the chance to explore and sleep comfortably without breaking the bank on accommodation, leaving more of my budget for those experiences that fuel my soul.
Quick Links (click to jump ahead)
- Tentbox Classic Review: First impressions
- Tentbox Classic Pros
- Tentbox Classic Cons
- Things to Consider Before Buying
- The Tentbox in Action
- Would I Recommend?
The buying process
Finding an in-depth, unbiased Tentbox Classic review online can be tough – that’s precisely why I’m excited to share my experience! I spent countless hours researching, initially debating between the rugged-looking Lite XL and the Classic. Ultimately, ease of setup and takedown won out, and I chose the Classic.
Before taking the plunge, I wanted to ensure compatibility with my car. The team at Tentbox was incredibly helpful. They double-checked my car’s roof load limit (a crucial factor I hadn’t even thought of!), confirmed the best model fit, and even recommended compatible roof bars. They went the extra mile by sending me photos of my specific car model with the Classic – their customer service was truly exceptional.
Tentbox Classic Review: First impressions
Let’s be real – the Tentbox was bigger and heavier than I anticipated! The delivery box was massive, and I barely squeezed it through my front door. Thankfully, the actual setup was surprisingly straightforward. The real challenge? Fitting those darn roof bars! My partner and I are DIY-challenged, and it took us nearly two hours.
Once the roof bars were in place, it was a breeze! With a little help (my partner and our handy neighbour – I struggled to lift it!), we had the roof tent secured to the car in no time. The bolts were a bit fiddly since you have to reach underneath, but that part only took about 10 minutes.
In hindsight, I might have splurged on Tentbox’s installation service to avoid the roof bar struggle. It’s a bit pricey at £99, but if you’re not DIY inclined like me, it could be a worthwhile investment.
Tentbox Classic Pros
Effortless Setup & Takedown: The Tentbox Classic lives up to its name! Setup is lightning-fast – I clocked myself at under 30 seconds. Simply unclip the buckles and give it a push. Takedown takes a bit longer (tucking things in, tightening buckles), but I’ve managed it solo even in strong winds.
Smooth Driving: A major reason I chose the Classic was its aerodynamic design. With my Mercedes C Class, speed isn’t compromised, and other models can be noisy on the motorway.
Durability: This thing is built to last! It’s rock-solid in winds up to 40 mph (you might feel some movement, but it feels secure). After a full year, including a winter freeze, it’s still in excellent condition.
Comfort: The built-in mattress is surprisingly cosy, and there’s ample room for two adults (and potentially a furry friend). Like any tent, some condensation is expected in colder weather, but I stayed toasty even during a winter camp.
Value for Money: Let’s be real, car roof tents are expensive. I found cheaper brands but opted for the reputable one based on reviews. It’s been worth every penny! The money I’ve saved on accommodation in just one year has nearly covered half the cost. Spreading the cost over 12 months with interest-free financing helped ease the initial investment.
Unique Advantages: The ease of setup, spacious interior, aerodynamic design, and robust shell set it apart. But the Classic’s biggest win? You can store ALL your bedding inside – pillows, sleeping bags, even extra cushions!
The Power of Community: Tentbox fosters a strong community with regular meetups and camping weekends across the country. There are also great online spaces, like Facebook groups, where Tentbox owners share photos, tips for accessories, travel recommendations, and more. Joining this community adds another layer of fun and support to your experience.
Tentbox Classic Cons
Weight and Storage: The biggest downside is the weight. Taking it on and off is a hassle, so leaving it on the car year-round can impact fuel efficiency. Storage is tricky too – it takes up a considerable amount of space when not in use.
Handling in Extreme Conditions: While driving is generally unaffected, navigating high winds on the motorway at top speeds can be a bit more challenging. You might feel some drag, so sticking to the slow lane is wise in those situations. Tentbox advise not to go above 70mph at all times.
Price: The Tentbox Classic is an investment, and some brands offer lower price points. It’s essential to weigh up the pros and cons, read reviews, and make the decision that feels right for you.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Vehicle Compatibility: It’s crucial to double-check which models fit your car and its specific roof load limit. Exceeding the limit is unsafe and could invalidate your insurance. Most brands offer compatibility checkers on their websites.
Roof Bars: You’ll need compatible roof bars to mount your Tentbox. Often, the company can recommend the best type for your vehicle.
Setup Style: Consider the different opening mechanisms. Models like the Classic pop straight up, offering flexibility in parking spots. Others, like the Lite, fold out sideways, so you’ll need to factor in extra space for setup.
Storage: When not in use, rooftop tents take up a significant amount of space. Plan ahead if you’ll be storing it away during the off-season.
Budget: Roof tents are an investment. Research other brands, compare features, and read reviews to find the best value for your budget.
Tentbox Discounts: All Tentbox owners get a referral code, so make sure you don’t miss out on a potential £50 off. I wish I’d know about this prior. Visit the community Facebook page or drop me a message on Instagram and I’ll share mine.
The Tentbox in Action: Road trips around the UK
My Tentbox baptism was at Garth Farm campsite in Snowdonia, a family-run haven with jaw-dropping mountain views and a private lake. Since it was a quick trip from home, it felt like the perfect place to test the waters.
Setup and takedown were a breeze, the built-in mattress surprisingly comfy, and the space was generous for two adults. Waking up surrounded by those views, I knew I’d made the right investment!
Since then, the adventures have been incredible! My first true road trip was to Pembrokeshire with a group of friends. We spent five glorious days hopping along the coast, exploring the Blue Lagoon, Church Door Cove, and St. Govan’s Chapel.
My favourite campsite was at St. David’s, boasting panoramic coastal views. Even a nasty bout of heatstroke (those toilets were my new best friend!) couldn’t dampen my spirits.
Last year, my partner and I ventured north for an epic Scotland and Isle of Skye road trip. We mapped out a route from the drama of Glencoe to the rugged beauty of Skye’s far reaches, hitting Fort William, Inverness, Loch Tay, and Portree along the way.
The entire trip was breath-taking, but the Old Man of Storr stole my heart, especially after a close encounter with some majestic Highland Cows! Skye was so magical, I even wrote a whole article about the best places to visit there.
Would I Recommend the Tentbox Classic?
Absolutely, a thousand times yes! While it’s a significant investment, the freedom, spontaneity, and savings on accommodation have made it worth every penny for me. The lightning-fast setup, comfortable sleep, and the ability to roll out of bed with stunning views are game-changers.
Of course, there are a few things to consider. The weight and storage can be a challenge, and there’s a slight impact on handling in very windy conditions. If these aren’t major concerns for you, and you’re an adventurer who prioritises ease, comfort, and the joy of waking up in nature, the Tentbox Classic could be the perfect travel companion. Honestly, it’s been one of the best investments I’ve ever made!
I hope this review has been helpful! My roof tent has become more than just camping gear; it’s my home away from home, freedom, adventure, and the countless memories made along the way. Drop any questions you have in the comments, or send me a DM on Instagram and I’d be happy to help.
