If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping but wants to take it to the next level, then a hard shell roof top tent might be just what you need These tents are convenient, comfortable, and easy to set up, making them a popular choice for adventurers However, purchasing a ready-made hard shell roof top tent can be expensive Luckily, with some basic DIY skills and a little bit of creativity, you can build your own hard shell roof top tent at a fraction of the cost.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent Get ready to elevate your camping experience with this fun and rewarding project.
Materials Needed:
– Hard shell case (such as a toolbox, ammo box, or custom-made shell)
– Hinges
– Gas struts
– Locks
– Latches
– Tent fabric
– Mattress
– Foam insulation
– Screws
– Drill
– Saw
Step 1: Choose Your Hard Shell Case
The first step in building your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to choose a suitable hard shell case to serve as the base of your tent Look for a sturdy case that is large enough to accommodate your sleeping area and has a flat surface for easy mounting on your vehicle’s roof rack Popular options include toolboxes, ammo boxes, or even custom-made shells designed specifically for roof top tents.
Step 2: Prepare the Case
Once you have your hard shell case, it’s time to prepare it for the conversion into a roof top tent Remove any unnecessary parts or compartments from the case to create a spacious interior for your sleeping area Make sure the case is cleaned and free of any debris before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Install Hinges and Gas Struts
To convert your hard shell case into a roof top tent, you’ll need to install hinges along one side of the case to create a flip-up lid This lid will serve as the base of your tent when opened Additionally, attach gas struts to the lid to assist with opening and closing the tent easily diy hard shell roof top tent. These struts will provide the necessary support to keep your tent stable while in use.
Step 4: Add Locks and Latches
For added security and peace of mind, install locks and latches to secure the lid of your hard shell roof top tent when in use This will prevent the tent from accidentally opening while you’re sleeping and keep your belongings safe inside the tent.
Step 5: Attach Tent Fabric
Next, you’ll need to attach tent fabric to the underside of the lid to create the walls and ceiling of your roof top tent Choose a durable and weather-resistant fabric that can withstand the elements while providing adequate insulation and ventilation for a comfortable camping experience.
Step 6: Add Mattress and Insulation
To complete your DIY hard shell roof top tent, add a mattress to the interior of the case for a comfortable sleeping surface You can also include foam insulation to keep you warm during cold nights and cool during hot days Make sure to secure the mattress and insulation in place to prevent shifting while you’re on the road.
Step 7: Mount the Tent on Your Vehicle
Once you’ve completed all the steps above, it’s time to mount your DIY hard shell roof top tent on your vehicle’s roof rack Secure the tent in place using screws and brackets to ensure it stays put while you’re driving Make sure to test the stability and security of your tent before hitting the road to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
With these simple steps, you can build your own DIY hard shell roof top tent and enjoy the convenience and comfort of a portable sleeping shelter wherever your adventures take you Save money, unleash your creativity, and take your camping experience to new heights with this fun and rewarding project Happy camping!