If you love camping and spending time outdoors, having a roof top tent can greatly enhance your outdoor adventures Hard shell roof top tents are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability, ease of use, and protection from the elements However, purchasing a pre-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive Instead of shelling out big bucks for a store-bought tent, why not try building your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent? In this article, we will guide you through the steps of building your own hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Hard shell for the roof
– Hinges
– Locks
– Ladder
– Mattress
– Brackets and bolts
– Waterproof fabric or material
– Foam insulation
– Hand tools
Step 1: Find the Right Hard Shell
The first step in building a DIY hard shell roof top tent is finding the right hard shell You can repurpose an old roof top cargo carrier or purchase a new one Make sure the hard shell is sturdy and can withstand the weight of the tent, mattress, and occupants.
Step 2: Install Hinges and Locks
Next, install hinges on one side of the hard shell to allow for easy opening and closing Make sure the hinges are securely attached to the hard shell You will also need to install locks to keep the tent securely closed when not in use.
Step 3: Attach the Ladder
Attach a ladder to the side of the hard shell so you can easily access the roof top tent from the ground Make sure the ladder is securely attached and can support the weight of users climbing up and down.
Step 4: Insulate the Interior
To make your roof top tent more comfortable, consider adding foam insulation to the interior walls of the hard shell This will help regulate the temperature inside the tent and provide a barrier against noise.
Step 5: Add Brackets and Bolts
Attach brackets to the inside of the hard shell to secure the mattress in place diy hard shell roof top tent. Make sure the brackets are strong and can hold the weight of the mattress and occupants Use bolts to secure the brackets to the hard shell.
Step 6: Add Waterproof Fabric
To protect yourself from the elements, cover the exterior of the hard shell with waterproof fabric or material This will help keep you dry during rainy weather and provide an extra layer of insulation.
Step 7: Test Your DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Before hitting the road with your DIY hard shell roof top tent, make sure everything is securely attached and functioning properly Test the tent by opening and closing it multiple times, checking the locks, and ensuring the ladder is stable.
Benefits of a DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent
Building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent has several advantages Not only will you save money by avoiding the high cost of a pre-made tent, but you will also have the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands Additionally, you can customize your tent to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
A DIY hard shell roof top tent is a great project for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping and spending time in nature By following these steps and using the right materials, you can create a durable and comfortable tent that will elevate your camping experience So why not give it a try and build your own DIY hard shell roof top tent today?