Are you an adventurous camper who loves exploring the great outdoors? Are you looking for a more convenient and comfortable way to go camping? If so, a hard shell roof top tent might be the perfect solution for you These innovative tents are easy to set up, provide a comfortable sleeping area off the ground, and offer protection from the elements However, purchasing a commercial hard shell roof top tent can be costly Fortunately, with a little creativity and DIY skills, you can make your own hard shell roof top tent at a fraction of the cost In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– Hard shell case (e.g., an old car rooftop cargo carrier)
– Foam insulation
– Fabric for the tent (e.g., canvas or nylon)
– Hinges
– Latches
– Mattress
– Drill
– Saw
– Screws and bolts
– Waterproof sealant
– Velcro straps
– Bedding and pillows
– Other camping essentials
Instructions:
1 Select a hard shell case: The first step in creating your own DIY hard shell roof top tent is to find a sturdy hard shell case that will serve as the base of your tent You can repurpose an old car rooftop cargo carrier or purchase a new one Make sure the case is in good condition and has enough space to accommodate a comfortable sleeping area.
2 Prepare the case: Clean the inside of the hard shell case thoroughly and remove any unnecessary components Measure and cut foam insulation to fit inside the case to provide insulation and cushioning for sleeping This will help regulate the temperature inside the tent and provide a comfortable sleeping surface.
3 Create the tent fabric: Measure the dimensions of the hard shell case and cut the fabric (canvas or nylon) to fit Leave extra fabric on the sides to allow for overhang Sew the fabric together to create the tent, leaving an opening for the door Attach zippers or Velcro to the door opening to allow for easy access.
4 Attach the tent to the case: Use hinges to attach the fabric tent to the hard shell case diy hard shell roof top tent. Install latches to secure the tent to the case when in use and during transportation Make sure the tent is securely attached to the case to prevent any accidents while camping.
5 Add the mattress: Place a comfortable mattress inside the tent to provide a cozy sleeping area You can use a foam mattress or an air mattress, depending on your preference Make sure the mattress fits snugly inside the tent and provides enough support for a good night’s sleep.
6 Waterproof the tent: To protect your DIY hard shell roof top tent from the elements, apply a waterproof sealant to the fabric This will help prevent leaks and keep you dry during rainy weather Make sure to let the sealant dry thoroughly before using the tent.
7 Install finishing touches: Add Velcro straps to secure the tent when it is closed and not in use Include bedding, pillows, and other camping essentials inside the tent to make it feel like a home away from home You can also add LED lights or a portable fan for extra comfort and convenience.
8 Test your DIY hard shell roof top tent: Before taking your DIY hard shell roof top tent on a camping trip, set it up in your backyard or a safe area to ensure everything is working properly Test the latches, zippers, and waterproofing to make sure your tent is ready for the great outdoors.
With these simple steps, you can create your own DIY hard shell roof top tent and enjoy camping in style and comfort Whether you are an experienced camper or a beginner looking to explore the wilderness, a hard shell roof top tent is a convenient and practical camping solution So gather your materials, roll up your sleeves, and start building your DIY hard shell roof top tent today!