For outdoor enthusiasts and avid campers, a roof top tent can provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience However, purchasing a brand new hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive If you’re handy with tools and enjoy DIY projects, you may want to consider building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent Not only can this save you money, but it can also be a fun and rewarding project In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to build your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Hard shell, such as a fiberglass or plastic storage container
– Hinges
– Latches
– Weather stripping
– Insulation foam
– Fabric for the tent
– Mattress or foam pad
– Roof rack or roof bars
– Hardware (screws, nuts, bolts)
Step 1: Choose Your Hard Shell Container
The first step in building your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to choose a suitable hard shell container This could be a fiberglass storage container, a plastic cargo bin, or any other sturdy container that is weatherproof and large enough to accommodate a sleeping area Make sure the container is durable enough to withstand the elements and provide adequate protection.
Step 2: Prepare the Container
Once you have chosen your hard shell container, you will need to prepare it for conversion into a roof top tent Remove any existing hardware or fixtures from the container, such as handles or locks Install hinges on one side of the container to create a lid that can be opened and closed Attach latches to secure the lid in place when the tent is in use.
Step 3: Insulate the Container
To make your DIY hard shell roof top tent more comfortable and weatherproof, insulate the interior of the container Cut insulation foam to fit the walls and ceiling of the container, and secure it in place with adhesive or tape This will help to regulate the temperature inside the tent and provide a more comfortable sleeping environment.
Step 4: Create a Tent Cover
Next, you will need to create a tent cover to attach to the hard shell container diy hard shell roof top tent. Measure the dimensions of the container and cut fabric to size, leaving enough extra material for seams and hems Sew the fabric together to create a tent cover that fits snugly over the container Attach the tent cover to the container using Velcro, snaps, or another fastening method.
Step 5: Add a Mattress or Foam Pad
To make your DIY hard shell roof top tent more comfortable for sleeping, add a mattress or foam pad to the interior of the container Foldable foam mattresses or camping pads are ideal for this purpose, as they can be easily stored when not in use Place the mattress or foam pad inside the container, and add bedding for a cozy sleeping area.
Step 6: Install Roof Rack or Roof Bars
In order to mount your DIY hard shell roof top tent onto your vehicle, you will need to install a roof rack or roof bars These can be purchased from an auto parts store or online, and should be securely attached to the roof of your vehicle Make sure the roof rack or bars are strong enough to support the weight of the tent and provide a stable base for mounting.
Step 7: Attach the Tent to Your Vehicle
Once you have prepared the hard shell container and created the tent cover, it’s time to attach your DIY hard shell roof top tent to your vehicle Place the container on top of the roof rack or bars, and secure it in place using hardware such as screws, nuts, and bolts Make sure the tent is securely attached and can withstand wind and other weather conditions while driving.
In conclusion, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a rewarding and cost-effective project for outdoor enthusiasts By following these steps and using basic materials, you can create a comfortable and functional roof top tent for your camping adventures So why not give it a try and enjoy the great outdoors in style with your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent