When you're camping in the harshest corners of Australia or just enjoying a weekend escape, the materials your rooftop tent is made from can make or break the experience. At Outback Tourer, we don’t cut corners—we build rooftop tents to last, using only premium components proven to withstand the elements.
So, what exactly should you be looking for in a high-quality rooftop tent? Let’s break it down.
1. Strong, Lightweight Aluminium Extrusion
At the heart of every Outback Tourer rooftop tent is a perimeter frame made from strong aluminium extrusion. This material provides the perfect balance between strength and weight—tough enough to handle off-road punishment, yet light enough to keep your vehicle’s roof load manageable.
The aluminium shell is designed to take on the Australian climate without flexing, warping, or corroding, offering long-term durability whether you’re tackling mud, dust, salt, or snow.
2. Insulated Lid and Base
Comfort matters—especially when the temperature swings. That’s why every Outback Tourer tent includes an insulated lid and base, designed to regulate internal temperatures and reduce condensation. You’ll sleep warmer in winter and cooler in summer, with less moisture build-up overnight.
3. 300–380GSM Canvas: Breathable, Durable, Weatherproof
We don’t compromise on fabric quality. Depending on the model, we use either 300gsm or 380gsm high-quality canvas in all our rooftop tents. This heavy-duty canvas is:
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UV resistant
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Waterproof
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Breathable
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Built to withstand years of wind, rain, and sun exposure
We also feature replicable canvas inserts, meaning if a section ever gets damaged, it can be replaced—extending the lifespan of your setup even further.
4. Stainless Steel Fixings and Heavy-Duty Gas Struts
Rust is the enemy. That’s why we use 304 stainless steel fixings throughout every build. Not only does this material offer excellent corrosion resistance, but it also provides the structural integrity you need for real off-road reliability.
Our tents also feature Stabilus gas struts, widely regarded as the gold standard in lift assistance. These are engineered in Germany and designed to function reliably even with weight on the roof. Our struts are powerful enough to lift the lid with up to 30kg mounted on top, so you can keep your gear up there without fuss.
5. Built to Be Repaired, Not Replaced
One of the biggest advantages of an Outback Tourer rooftop tent is its serviceability. With modular components and replaceable inserts, you won’t need to scrap the whole tent if something goes wrong. It’s a smarter, more sustainable design that gives you peace of mind for the long haul.
Final Thoughts
When choosing the best material for a rooftop tent, it’s not about flashy features—it’s about build quality, long-term durability, and weather resistance. At Outback Tourer, we’ve engineered our tents with the toughest materials, proven fixtures, and thoughtful details that real adventurers care about.
If you’re looking for a rooftop tent that’s made to last and backed by real-world testing, look no further than the Outback Tourer rooftop tent range.
