A side opening rooftop tent is a hardshell tent that mounts to a vehicle's roof rack and opens outward from the side using gas struts, rather than lifting straight up. This creates a wider sleeping area with a more accessible entry point and a larger usable floor space than a standard top-opening design. Side opening rooftop tents are designed for 4WD touring, overlanding, and camping where fast deployment, comfort, and weatherproof shelter are priorities.
At VicOffRoad, our side opening rooftop tents are built for durability, comfort, and fast deployment. Whether you are travelling solo or with a companion, our range delivers a secure, weatherproof overnight setup for every adventure. Pair your tent with a vehicle awning to create a fully sheltered living space at ground level.
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Side Opening vs Top Opening Rooftop Tent: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Side Opening Rooftop Tent | Top Opening Rooftop Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry and exit | Side ladder, easier access for most users | Front or rear ladder, steeper angle |
| Sleeping area | Wider, more usable floor space | More compact footprint |
| Setup time | Fast, gas strut assisted side opening | Very fast, lift-up pop design |
| Closed profile | Low and aerodynamic | Very low profile |
| View from tent | Wide panoramic side view | Overhead skylights on some models |
| Best for | Couples, extended trips, comfort-focused campers | Solo travellers, minimalist setups |
Browse the full rooftop tent range to compare side opening and top opening models across all sizes and configurations.
Maximise Your Camp Setup With a Side Opening Rooftop Tent
A side opening rooftop tent creates a spacious, elevated sleeping area that stays dry, clean, and off the ground regardless of the terrain below. It removes the need to find flat, cleared ground and eliminates the hassle of traditional tent setup at the end of a long day on the road.
To complete your power setup away from the grid, our solar panels for camping keep your devices and accessories charged at any campsite.
Quick Deployment and Compact Footprint for 4WD Touring
Speed and convenience matter when you are moving camp daily or arriving at a site after a long drive. Our side opening rooftop tents deploy quickly via gas struts, with no poles to assemble and no guesswork involved. You can go from driving to sleeping in minutes.
Key features that make our side opening tents ideal for 4WD touring:
- Gas strut assisted opening that does the heavy lifting for you.
- Pop-up style deployment that requires minimal effort to set up and pack down.
- Self-inflating mattress included on selected models, eliminating the need for a separate sleeping mat.
- Compact closed profile that reduces wind drag and fuel consumption while driving.
Weatherproof Construction for Extreme Australian Environments
Australian weather is unpredictable at every turn. Our side opening rooftop tents are engineered to handle scorching summer heat, tropical downpours, and everything in between. The rigid hardshell casing seals shut when closed, protecting the interior from rain, dust, and UV exposure during travel.
- Waterproof canopy fabric with sealed seams to keep rain out.
- UV-rated materials that resist sun degradation across multiple seasons.
- Dustproof hardshell to protect your sleeping space during dry outback travel.
- Heavy-duty zippers and closures rated for long-term outdoor use.
Smart Storage and Comfort Features for Off-Road Campers
A well-designed interior makes a significant difference on longer trips. Our side opening rooftop tents include thoughtful storage and comfort features designed for life on the road:
- Side and top pockets for easy access to personal items, phones, and torches.
- Sliding shoe pockets to keep muddy footwear outside the sleeping area.
- Built-in ventilation to promote airflow and reduce condensation overnight.
- Insulation lining to maintain a comfortable interior temperature across seasons.
- Lighting and charging socket compatibility on selected models for added convenience.
Upgrade your sleeping comfort with a dedicated rooftop tent mattress designed to fit hardshell tent models.
Why Shop With Vicoffroad
At Vicoffroad, our passion for the great outdoors drives us to deliver excellence in the outdoor and adventure space. As an emerging brand inspired by the shared passion of Australians for nature's wonders, we are committed to delivering nothing short of outstanding products and exceptional customer service, ensuring your outdoor experiences are truly triumphant.
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Side Opening Roof Top Tents FAQ
Q: What is a side opening rooftop tent?
A: A side opening rooftop tent is a hardshell tent that mounts to a vehicle's roof rack and opens outward from the side using gas struts. It creates a wider sleeping area than top-opening designs and provides easier access via a side-mounted ladder. Most models deploy in under 60 seconds and are well suited to solo travellers and couples seeking a fast, weatherproof overnight setup.
Q: How does a side opening rooftop tent differ from a standard rooftop tent?
A: A side opening tent swings out horizontally to create a larger sleeping footprint with easier side entry. A standard top-opening tent lifts upward, which gives a more compact closed profile but a narrower floor space. Side opening models are generally preferred by those who prioritise interior room, panoramic views, and ease of access at camp.
Q: Can a side opening rooftop tent fit any roof rack?
A: Most side opening rooftop tents are compatible with standard crossbar and platform roof racks. Before purchasing, confirm your vehicle's dynamic roof load rating and rack capacity. The combined static weight of the tent and its occupants must remain within the rated limit. Contact the VicOffRoad team for advice on vehicle and rack compatibility.
Q: What comfort features should I look for in a side opening rooftop tent?
A: Key comfort features include a quality integrated mattress or self-inflating pad, ventilation windows to reduce condensation, internal storage pockets for personal items, and a weatherproof hardshell casing. Some models also include built-in lighting, insulation, and charging points. Our team can help you find the right configuration for your camping style.