In summer 2024, outdoor nerd Atilla Yoldas upgraded from ground tents to rooftop tents. How has it gone so far? We check in and talk favorite spots, rooftop tent hacks, and what the dream trip is.

1. What have you liked most about rooftop tent camping?

It is so convenient and cozy! I have been used to "regular" tenting for many years, so this feels like luxury to me. Not having to think about so much setup by having everything organized and close at hand in the car helps. It is such a wonderful experience and I have, to say the least, become obsessed!

2. Which places have you managed to rooftop camp at so far and do you have a favorite?

– Quite a few around Stockholm and Norrköping areas and in northern Sweden, as well as in Northern Norway. Lofoten has without a doubt become the favorite. DAMN it was amazing to rooftop camp there.

3. What trip or adventure do you think rooftop tents are best suited for?

All of them! As an outdoor nerd, the trips I go on are mainly to places as close to nature as possible. Being able to get up a bit from the ground, lie down with a blanket and pillow, and look out over new views every evening is truly magical.

4. How has the rooftop tent changed your adventures and camping experiences?

Significantly for the better. I always bring my regular tent too to vary, but honestly, it’s hard to leave the rooftop tent when you know it’s up there, haha!

I enjoy it in a completely different way! All the extra space you get access to also makes a difference, being able to really stretch out. And when the sun has gone down and it’s time to sleep, I have now developed the perfect setup for a tablet by hanging guy lines from the tent’s roof for the ultimate movie night. Ask me for tips! 😉

5. What is your best rooftop tent memory?

– Chilling in the rooftop tent with my dog Lillie and looking out over one of the mountains in Lofoten that we climbed earlier that day. It was close to 2:00 AM and the midnight sun lit up as far as we could see. We had just dried off after a nighttime swim in the water below. I want to go back.

6. What are your best tips for a successful rooftop tent trip, especially for beginners?

– Do your research. Learn how the tent works by testing it a few times and aim for some easier routes where you know there are suitable spots. Then explore from there.

The next level is to bring as many cozy things as you can. Lovely blankets, fluffy pillows, LED lights, snacks, and good food.

7. What do you always bring when you go rooftop tent camping?

– A power bank and a camping stove, that gets you far. I’m also grateful for my water container.

8. It sounds like you like to keep it simple?

In a way – yes. But I can admit that right now all my energy goes into stopping myself from buying more (from a gear nerd who "needs" a lot of stuff) 😂

8. Have you encountered any challenges with rooftop tent camping and how did you solve them?

– A small challenge was getting my 20-kilo Siberian husky up into the tent the first time. She looked at me like I was crazy when I tried to lift her up there.

But after a few clumsy attempts, we learned how I should stand on the ladder and how she should lean against me when coming down from up there. Rooftop tent camping with a dog increases the experience by 100%. At least.

9. What does an ultimate rooftop tent day look like for you?

– I pull up the "curtains" and wake up at a wonderful place. Stay wrapped up in the blanket like a burrito, cuddle with the dog, and breathe in the fresh morning air.

A good breakfast followed by a day hike up a nearby mountain. Lunch at the top. The camping stove provides dinner by a stream near the rooftop tent. Maybe a swim...

Curl up, eat way too many snacks, and look out while darkness falls. Get spooned by the dog while watching my favorite series on the tablet. It doesn’t get better than that.

10. Where do you dream of going with the rooftop tent next time?

– Europe, here I come!! I’m aiming for the Dolomites. It’s going to be really awesome, I’ve already started making a playlist for this ultimate road trip.