When it comes to rooftop camping, there’s a lot of debate around softshell vs hardshell tents. But if you’re serious about off-road touring, ease of use, and long-term value—a hardshell rooftop tent is absolutely worth it.
At Outback Tourer, we build premium hardshell rooftop tents designed for Australian conditions. Here's why so many campers are making the switch—and why once you’ve tried one, you won’t go back.
1. Setup in Seconds, Not Minutes
Let’s face it—no one wants to wrestle with poles and canvas after a long day on the tracks. Our hardshell tents use Stabilus gas struts to open up in seconds. You can literally pull over, undo two latches, and have your bed ready before the billy’s even boiled.
It’s camping, without the hassle.
2. Built-In Durability That Lasts for Years
Our hardshell tents are made with:
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Full aluminium extrusion shells
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Insulated lid and base for temperature control and reduced condensation
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304 stainless steel fixings to prevent rust
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Replicable canvas inserts—so if anything gets damaged, you don’t need a whole new tent
This isn’t something you’ll be replacing in a year or two. It’s a long-term investment in comfort, strength, and reliability.
3. Store Bedding Inside, Travel Light
Forget stuffing pillows into the back seat. With models offering higher internal clearance, you can store your bedding, pillows, and blankets inside—even when the tent is closed.
This saves time packing and frees up valuable space in your vehicle. Just park, pop, and crawl in.
4. Built for the Real World
We’ve engineered every component to survive Australia’s harshest conditions. Our tents feature:
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High-quality 300gsm or 380gsm canvas
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Aerodynamic shaping for better fuel efficiency and less wind drag
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Lids that support 100kg of weight on top—strong enough to stand on or mount extra gear ( 30 kg on the roof racks )
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Struts that can open the lid with 30kg mounted on the roof
You’re not just buying convenience—you’re buying something made to go the distance.
5. Clean Look, Low Profile
A hardshell rooftop tent looks sharp and travels quietly. With heights as low as 200mm, our tents offer a sleek, low-profile design that sits snug on your roof without sticking up like a sail.
It’s a cleaner setup, with better aerodynamics and a tighter fit—especially important if you're mounting awnings or carrying gear.
6. Power Options Inside
Modern camping should feel a little bit like home. Some of our tents come with pre-wired power—including USB ports and interior lighting—so you can stay charged, stay comfortable, and stay out longer.
So, Are They Worth It? Absolutely.
Hardshell rooftop tents cost more up front, but they pay for themselves in time, comfort, and durability. With faster setup, less maintenance, better weather protection, and a smarter design—they’re simply in a different league.
And when you choose an Outback Tourer rooftop tent, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in quality gear, tested by people who live and breathe this lifestyle.
