The Smittybilt Overlander Roof Top Tent has carved out a loyal following among campers, off-roaders, and weekend explorers. It didn’t get there through hype or flash. It earned its place through grit, smart design, and a price that won’t empty your wallet.
Built tough for the trail but made with comfort in mind, this tent proves that rugged gear can also feel like home. Whether you’re heading deep into the wild or setting up under the stars near a lake, the Overlander gives you a safe, dry, and easy base to rest.
It’s more than a tent it’s your off-ground home when the road turns rough and the nights turn cold.
What Makes the Smittybilt Roof Top Tent Different?
Smittybilt stands out because of its rugged build and smart design. The fabric uses heavy-duty 600D rip-stop polyester. A waterproof coating protects you from rain. The base combines aluminum and polyurethane. This adds strength and keeps heat in during cold nights.
This gives you sky views and airflow. The LED light strip adds function. The boot bag keeps dirt outside. These features make your trip cleaner and more enjoyable. You also get a foam mattress inside the tent. It feels firm but holds up after many uses.
Smittybilt Roof Top Tent Comfort and Interior
The inside of this tent feels spacious. It offers 38 square feet of space. Headroom stands at 51 inches. That means you can sit up or move without feeling trapped.
The included mattress measures two inches thick. It feels firm to most users. Some cut memory foam to match the size for extra comfort. Others layer sleeping bags. The mattress works, but it does better with a few changes.
The tent allows air to move well. Two side windows and two roof windows open up the space. This helps reduce moisture. On clear nights, the sunroof shows the stars. That adds a peaceful touch to the experience.
Real-World Weather Testing
The Smittybilt tent holds up in bad weather. Campers have taken it through storms, dust, and mud. The inside stayed dry. Even when packed wet, the tent opened dry the next night. That shows strong water protection.
The fabric stays tight. Zippers work after long trips. Roof vents let warm air out. This helps stop damp air from building up inside the tent.
Some users worried about the velcro on the cover. Dirt and dust can fill it. But once dry, it vacuums out easily. There are no zippers to jam. No clips to fight with. That makes setup smoother.
Setup: What to Expect
The tent weighs between 138 and 145 pounds. That weight means you need at least two people to lift it. Three people make the job safer. The install kit comes with basics. Many users suggest using your own tools.
The ladder slides out and locks in place. If the preset holes do not match your rack height, you can drill new ones. That’s easy with basic tools. One user used a trailer and drilled two holes to fit it perfectly.
The rainfly and support rods take time. The first install may take hours. After that, daily setup becomes quick. Expect to spend extra time the first day, then enjoy speed later.
Common Complaints and Easy Fixes
Some users noticed sharp edges on the tent base. These can rub through the rubber cover. One user placed rubber mats and duct tape over the corners. That simple fix stopped the wear.
The cover straps use velcro and metal loops. These can wear out over time. Some users swapped them out for buckles or snap clips. That improved ease and durability.
Plastic inserts on the ladder feet sometimes fall out. That can be annoying. Some campers replace them. Others just leave them off. The ladder still works well either way.
Included Features That Add Real Value
The LED light strip lights up the tent. It plugs into a 12V outlet. You also get a USB adapter with two ports.
The rubber boot bag helps keep shoes outside. This keeps the sleeping space clean. Mud stays where it belongs.
The tent fits most vehicles. Owners have mounted it on Jeeps, Fords, and Toyotas. It also fits trailers. As long as the rack supports the weight, it should work.
Every window has no-see-um mesh. Bugs stay out. Air flows in. That balance keeps things cool.
The rainfly gives extra protection in bad weather. The poles support the tent structure. These parts help during storms or cold nights.
Buyers get a two-year warranty. It covers defects and damage. You can get a replacement through the store, like 4 Wheel Parts.
Roof Top Tent Weight and Load Capacity
This tent holds up to 600 pounds. Two adults and gear can rest without stress. The ladder supports that weight. It feels solid and safe. You can carry pets or kids without risk.
The tent itself is heavy. That adds to its stability. It does not sway or shift in wind. Once mounted, it stays firm.
Comparison to Premium Brands
Tents from brands like Tepui and CVT cost twice as much. They offer similar materials and designs. Some include extras like ladders or thicker mattresses. But Smittybilt covers the basics at a better price.
Many rooftop tents come from the same factories. Brands add logos and change small details. Smittybilt gives you the core structure without the mark-up.
If you want high-end polish, you can pay more. If you want solid value and real function, Smittybilt makes more sense.
Is the Smittybilt Overlander Worth Buying?
The Smittybilt Overlander offers strong build, smart features, and a low price. It protects you from rain. It gives space and comfort. And it works on most vehicles. For those who don’t mind a little DIY, it offers a great deal.
Setup takes time. You’ll need tools and a few helping hands. But once installed, the tent becomes easy to use.
The Overlander gives great value. It stands up to real use. It does its job well.
Final Words
Smittybilt gives you quality and comfort at a fair price. The Overlander works for weekend trips, road tours, or off-road adventures. It holds firm in storms. It stays dry. And it feels roomy.
This tent does not pretend to be luxury. It’s built for use, not show. If you want something that works, lasts, and fits your budget, this is it.
Score: 7.5/10 Tough, trusted, and a smart buy.