Honest 2 Year Review of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
When it comes to overlanding, the gear you choose can make or break your adventure. Imagine rolling into a remote, pristine location, far from the hustle of city life. You need a reliable shelter that sets up quickly, keeps you comfortable, and withstands whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Enter the Front Runner Roof Top Tent—a tent designed for those who seek adventure off the beaten path without sacrificing the comforts of a good night's sleep.
I have owned this tent for 2 years, and have slept in it probably close to 50 times. You can skip this whole review b/c the jist of it is this: I frickin love it!! It’s easy to set up and break down, comfortable and reliable. It is one of the lightest tents on the market which “helps” the gas mileage. I drive a lifted Tacoma - I’m usually dropping some tears at the gas station on my adventures regardless.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features that set the Front Runner Roof Top Tent apart, delve into the pros and cons, and help you decide whether this is the ideal tent for your next journey into the wild.
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What is a Roof Top Tent (RTT)?
A roof top tent (RTT) is a type of camping tent that mounts directly to the roof of a vehicle, typically on a roof rack. It's designed to provide an elevated sleeping area, which offers several advantages over traditional ground tents. There’s definitely some considerations to take in before making the leap from the ground to the roof. Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes a roof top tent unique:
Key Features of a Roof Top Tent:
Elevation: Being off the ground, an RTT keeps you away from uneven or rocky terrain, mud, and critters. It also provides better ventilation and can be safer in areas where wildlife might be a concern.
Quick Setup: Many RTTs are designed to be set up in just a few minutes. Some models are hard-shell, which simply pop open, while others are soft-shell, which unfold with the help of a ladder and some light adjustments.
Comfort: Roof top tents often come with built-in foam mattresses, offering more comfort than the average sleeping pad in a ground tent. They can also have more headroom and space to move around.
Durability: These tents are usually made with more durable materials than regular camping tents, designed to withstand the elements while traveling at highway speeds.
Versatility: RTTs can be installed on a variety of vehicles, from SUVs and trucks to some cars with the right roof rack system. They’re great for overlanding, road trips, or just weekend camping.
Pros of Roof Top Tents:
Convenience: Easy to set up and pack down, making them ideal for quick stops.
Comfort: Built-in mattresses and better ventilation.
Safety: An elevated sleeping platform keeps you safe from ground-based dangers.
Cons of Roof Top Tents:
Cost: Generally more expensive than traditional ground tents.
Weight: Can be heavy, which affects fuel efficiency and vehicle handling.
Accessibility: Requires climbing up and down a ladder,and once you have setup camp, your vehicle must stay there.
Key Features of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Durability and Build Quality
The Front Runner Roof Top Tent stands out with its robust construction, made to endure the toughest overlanding conditions. Crafted from durable, weather-resistant materials, the tent's design ensures that it can handle everything from heavy rain to scorching sun. The heavy-duty aluminum frame adds an extra layer of strength, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
Ease of Setup
One of the biggest advantages of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is its user-friendly setup. After a long day of driving or hiking, the last thing you want is a complicated tent assembly. With its quick fold-out design, this tent can be set up in just a few minutes by a single person. The integrated ladder and smart design make the process even more seamless.
Comfort and Space
Despite its compact size when packed, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent offers generous sleeping space for two adults. Inside, you’ll find a high-density foam mattress that provides much-needed comfort after a day of exploration. The tent's interior height is sufficient for easy movement, making it feel less cramped than some other roof top tents. The mattress covers 85% of the floor, leaving room for shoes, bags, etc.
Weather Resistance
Weather can be unpredictable, but the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is designed to handle it all. Its waterproof fabric and sealed seams keep you dry during rainstorms, while the extended rainfly offers extra protection. In windy conditions, the sturdy frame ensures stability, so you can rest easy no matter the forecast. Yes, it will be loud, but it will stand strong. I have never had any issues with rain.
Ventilation and Windows
Good ventilation is key to a comfortable night in any tent. The Front Runner Roof Top Tent includes multiple windows and vents that can be adjusted to control airflow, helping to reduce condensation and keep the interior fresh. These openings also offer panoramic views, so you can enjoy your surroundings without leaving the comfort of your tent.
Portability and Storage
When not in use, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent folds down into a compact, low-profile package. This streamlined design minimizes wind resistance and doesn't overly affect your vehicle’s aerodynamics. The included PVC cover ensures that the tent remains protected from the elements when packed away, ready for the next adventure.
Pros of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Durable Construction - Built to last, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is constructed from high-quality materials that withstand the harshest environments. Whether you're navigating rocky terrain or enduring a downpour, this tent will remain steadfast.
Quick Setup and Breakdown - Time is of the essence when setting up camp, and this tent excels in efficiency. Its easy-to-use design allows you to set up and break down in minutes, giving you more time to enjoy your surroundings.
Comfortable Sleeping Experience - The tent’s high-density foam mattress provides a level of comfort that rivals your bed at home. Combined with the ample interior space, it ensures a restful night's sleep after a day of exploration.
Excellent Ventilation - With multiple adjustable vents and windows, the tent maintains a fresh and comfortable environment, reducing the likelihood of waking up to a stuffy interior.
Low-Profile Design - The tent's low-profile design minimizes its impact on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and makes it less prone to wind resistance, an important feature for long drives on the open road.
Versatility - The **Front Runner Roof Top Tent** is versatile enough for a variety of environments, from sandy deserts to dense forests, making it a reliable choice for any overlanding adventure.
Cons of the Front Runner Roof Top Tent
Price - The Front Runner Roof Top Tent comes with a premium price tag, which may be a hurdle for budget-conscious adventurers. However, for those who prioritize quality and durability, the investment is often seen as worthwhile.
Weight - At approximately 95 pounds, the tent is not the lightest option on the market (but one of). This weight can make installation challenging and will impact your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
Limited Sleeping Capacity - While perfect for two adults, the tent's size may be limiting for families or larger groups. If you frequently camp with more than two people, additional sleeping arrangements will be necessary.
Access Challenges - The height of a roof top tent can be a drawback for some, particularly when it comes to getting in and out. The ladder can be tricky to navigate, especially in wet or dark conditions, posing a challenge for those less comfortable with heights. Also, you’re completely exposed when it rains. Again, and this is important, once you have set up camp, you can’t move your vehicle without breaking the tent back down.
Conclusion
The Front Runner Roof Top Tent is a top-tier choice for overlanding enthusiasts who value durability, comfort, and convenience. Its robust construction, quick setup, and all-weather capabilities make it a reliable companion for any adventure. While the price and weight might be considerations, the tent's overall performance and features often justify these factors for serious outdoor explorers.
If you're looking to enhance your overlanding experience, the Front Runner Roof Top Tent is an investment that promises to deliver, allowing you to camp comfortably in even the most remote locations.
BREAKDOWN OF MY SETUP
I have a 2019 Toyota Tacoma Off Road 4x4 Pickup with a short bed. I have FRO Roof Top Tent mounted on the FRO Slimline II Bed Rack with the Quick Release Tent Mount Kit. On the bottom sid of the rack, I have the FRO Pro Stainless Steel Camp Table installed. On the cab, I have the Slimsport Roof Rack Kit (Lightbar ready) with the 40" LED Slim Light Bar VX1000-CB SM / 12V/24V / Single Mount. I also have the Easy-Out Awning / 1.4M attached with the Quick Release Awning Mount Kit. For storage I have a set of Wolf Pack Pros and a Typhoon Bag that are tied down using Stratchits and Black Tie Down Rings. For hydration, I use the Pro Water Tank With Tap / 20L. I keep my food crispy cold in the Dometic CFX3 45 Cooler/Freezer and carry extra fuel with a 2G Rotopax attached with the Rotopax Rack Mounting Plate.