If you love camping and exploring the great outdoors, then you may have heard of the convenience and comfort a hard shell roof top tent can provide These innovative tents are mounted on the roof of your vehicle, providing a comfortable and secure sleeping space wherever your adventures take you However, purchasing a pre-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive If you’re looking to save some money and are handy with DIY projects, building your own hard shell roof top tent can be a great alternative In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Plywood or aluminum composite panels
– Fiberglass or plastic resin
– Hinges
– Latches
– Gas struts
– Roof rack
– Foam mattress
Step 1: Design Your Tent
The first step in making your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to design the shape and size of the tent You can create a template using cardboard to determine the exact dimensions of the tent Make sure to take into account the roof size of your vehicle and ensure that the tent is compact enough to fit securely on top.
Step 2: Cut and Assemble the Base
Using plywood or aluminum composite panels, cut out the base of the tent according to your design Once you have the base ready, attach the hinges to one side of the base This will allow the tent to easily fold open and close Next, attach the gas struts to help support the weight of the tent when it is open.
Step 3: Build the Shell
Using fiberglass or plastic resin, create the hard shell of the tent You can build the shell by laying multiple layers of fiberglass or resin over the base of the tent diy hard shell roof top tent. Once the shell is dry and hardened, attach it to the hinges on the base Make sure that the shell is securely attached and can open and close smoothly.
Step 4: Add the Latches and Locks
Attach latches to the sides of the tent to keep it securely closed while driving You can also add locks for added security Make sure that the latches and locks are strong and durable to keep your tent safe and secure during your travels.
Step 5: Install the Roof Rack
In order to mount the tent on the roof of your vehicle, you will need a sturdy roof rack Make sure that the roof rack is properly installed and can support the weight of the tent Once the roof rack is in place, carefully lift the tent onto the roof and secure it in place.
Step 6: Add the Mattress
To complete your DIY hard shell roof top tent, add a foam mattress inside the tent for a comfortable sleeping space Make sure that the mattress fits snugly inside the tent and provides enough cushioning for a good night’s sleep.
Congratulations, you have successfully built your own DIY hard shell roof top tent! Now you can hit the road and enjoy the convenience and comfort of your very own homemade rooftop tent.
In conclusion, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a fun and rewarding project for camping enthusiasts By following these simple steps and using the right materials, you can create a durable and secure tent that will provide you with a comfortable and convenient sleeping space wherever your adventures take you So why wait? Start building your DIY hard shell roof top tent today and enjoy the great outdoors like never before.