Has anyone used an SUV tent for new to moderate camping?

I have done traditional tent camping about 15 years ago and really enjoyed it. However, after beating up my body for the last two decades, sleeping in my 4r with a pad actually sounds more enjoyable than on an air mattress on ground. I like the idea of the tent being stand alone and able to connect to the vehicle. It may only get used a few times a year but I really want to get back into camping.

I do not want a roof top tent as I have dogs that I want near by.

So, wondering about this type of tent. Any thoughts? Any other brands I should consider?

https://www.amazon.com/Rightline-Gear-110907-SUV-Tent/dp/B00NGJEN5K/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1V4DV7MWUQCXH&dchild=1&keywords=suv+tents+for+camping&qid=1593011961&sprefix=SUV%2Caps%2C222&sr=8-3

Thanks!

 

Would the tent be used as storage for stuff, or a gathering / sitting place, or...? You say you'll be sleeping in the 4R so what would the intended purpose of the tent be?

I also sleep in the 4R and have never really also wanted to put up a tent. Upon occasion I'll install an awning off the cargo basket, but that's only when inclement weather is anticipated and we want to do some sitting around out of the weather.

If storage for gear is your concern, there's not much that you would bring on a multi day trip that can't go in the front seats or on the roof while you sleep in the cargo area.

If I misunderstood, and you plan on sleeping in the tent and not in the truck, then I have no advice... LOL.

 

I like having a tent for changing and having a place for the bigger dog to sleep. The 12 pounder will most likely be in the truck with us. Also, thinking of weather protection without having climb in the car and bug protection. Setting up chairs in the tent and having a drink without getting eaten alive. I guess my thought was the truck would be solely to sleep in, while the tent would be more of a living area.

 

Yeah, I’ve thought about this as well, doc4216, and it’s funny, because the model you’re considering is probably the one I would choose. My reason is mostly related to travelling post Covid, in order to avoid rural motels. Near larger cities, I’m fine with staying in a good hotel with known sanitation practices. I’ve camped all my life, since cubs, but rarely car camping. Mostly, my camping has been in the back country where your tent is all there is. I like the idea of having a place to stow gear, and get out of the weather without being too minimalist. Roof top tents are ok if you’re worried about mountain lions, snakes or grizzlies, but it’s a long way down for a midnight to 4 am pee(s). Ok for you young guys, though.

 

Hey, doc4216, when you get one, be sure and post a review on here!

 

Seems a little small for what you want to use it for, and awfully enclosed for sitting around.

Maybe an awning or a screened awning, like the Slumberjack Roadhouse with screen, would be better for what you plan to use it for? I have no ownership experience with that particular model but I have the non screen version and like it; and a buddy has the screen version and it is nice. Way bigger footprint. Also about half the cost. No floor so if the dog has an accident there's no mess on a nylon floor. You can also roll the screens up to just have a roof if there's no bugs.



Here's the non screen version, or the screen version with screens up. Installs over hatch or the side as shown.

 

Will do!

 

Thanks! I will look into that one also.

 

I'm old and have to sleep on a memory foam or else I am sore the next day. But I still tent camp and bought a nice cot a few years ago, like this...



I put on a cheap air mattress and it is nearly as nice as my memory foam. Incredibly comfy, and I sleep like a baby. They are under $100 and have made tent camping much more enjoyable.

Last time I tent camped was last elk season in Idaho and we all had cots in a canvas yurt with a big wood stove. Ten degrees out and we slept amazingly well...