TOP PICK & Best Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ROAM Vagabond XL ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Best 2-3 Person – OVS Mamba Hard Shell
- Best Family – Tuff Stuff Elite
- Best Budget – OVS TMBK 3
- Best High-End – Freespirit Odyssey
- UPDATE: Rooftop Tent Worth Mentioning – Roofnest Meadowlark
Why You Should Trust Us
We're Anja & Alex, a couple of gear geeks and outdoor enthusiasts with 10+ years of living with the outdoors. During countless road trips and adventures, we've made a million mistakes and had a lot of bad purchases. It helped us develop an eye for detail and an obsession to find the best product. This website is our try to help you avoid buying crap gear. It is founded on the principles of honest, detailed, objective, and independent camping and hiking gear reviews we would like we had when we were younger and inexperienced. Our review process starts with selection: we look at hundreds of products to determine the top contenders in each category. We then spend weeks testing it and researching the top contenders for detailed comparison testing. We don't accept any manufacturer's free evaluation units or paid endorsements. Our focus is strictly on creating content for the benefit of our readers. To learn more about us, click here.
Hi, fellow campers,
This review will introduce you to the 5 best Jeep Grand Cherokee roof top tents, carefully categorized according to your needs.
Camping on the top of a Jeep Cherokee in the rooftop tent of your dreams is tempting just by thinking about it. But which one fits your vehicle perfectly?
Researching what’s good on the market, I came to the best.
In this text, you will find 5 rooftop tents adapted to your needs for every occasion and one bonus I’m sure is worth mentioning. Whether you go camping with one, two, or more people, one is the perfect match.
Let’s check all the tents from my list!
Table of Contents
Buying Guide – Essential Factors To Evaluate When Purchasing Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tents
Before you purchase, check the following things your Jeep roof tent should fulfill.
Size
It’s crucial to determine the appropriate size of the tent, mainly depending on the number of people going camping. Calculate the exact dimensions of the tent and then decide whether it is big enough for all campers. Remember that a large space is a comfortable space.
Weight
A heavier weight is usually a sign that the tent is more durable, although you don’t want it to be too bulky to make it harder to transport. You must be interested in optimal weight, so look carefully at the weight of each tent’s specifications I will write about, and you’ll find what you need.
Setup
A quick and pretty easy setup should only take a few minutes on average. It should offer easy customization, especially when setting it up independently. Different manufacturers provide different levels of customization, but with clear instructions, everything is easy.
Seasonality
An all-season tent is the best choice. If you’re already an avid camper, you’ll want a comfortable experience in both the heat and the cold. The most important thing is that the material is waterproof when it rains. And when it’s hot, the ventilation system provides a refreshing space.
Durability
Being aware of the often uneven terrain, such as rocks and branches, it is crucial to prioritize durability when choosing a tent. The tent material must resist tearing or punctures caused by the elements to be durable.
Best Overall Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tent – Roam Vagabond XL
➤ Size closed: 72″ x 48″ x 12″
➤ Size sleeping: 72” x 96” x 52”
➤ Weight: 160 lbs
The Roam Vagabond XL is a premium four-person rooftop tent that oozes comfort and luxury in every aspect, offering exceptional value on any occasion.
With its ultra-comfortable mattress, in-built skylight, waterproof material, and great space, this tent is the best overall choice for the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
I tried it and very quickly decided to extend my stay.
And here’s why.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ Spacious and comfortable: Space abounds. The XL size tells you Ripstopabout how spacious this tent is. Just imagine lying under the starry sky, tucked into a paradise of comfort, relaxing during the day, having dinner, and sleeping soundly at night. The spaciouripstoproof Roam Vagabond for four people will give you that freedom of space.
✅ Waterproof: If you’re unexpectedly met with rain while camping, you don’t want to ruin a day. 280g of polycotton Ripstop fabric has taken care of that, protecting you even when the rain pours, and the wind howls so that no drop penetrates its solid walls. Excellent waterproofing properties like a 600D diamond ripstop rainfly will become your greatest protector wherever you are.
✅ Easy setup and installation: With the Roam Vagabond XL, setting up your Jeep Cherokee tent is a joy. The reason for this is the speed of opening and adjustment, the simple procedure, and the lightness of the elements. The unique folding design allows you to open and close it in less than 5 minutes without help. You will soon find yourself settling into the tent and enjoying the magic of camping.
✅ Memory foam mattress: Would you like a luxurious 5-star hotel experience? You must try the built-in 3-inch memory foam mattress that will make you sleep like you’re on vacation. You’ll sleep long and soundly without feeling on top of your car. And the point of it all is to be rested as you should be when camping and doing your favorite activities.
✅ Add-on room (optional): If you want extra sleeping space or a private changing area, the Roam Vagabond XL offers the option of attaching an annex. The accessory is made of 600D PU-coated diamond nylon fabric, the same material used for the rainfly, ensuring durability. It has a black, durable, laminated PVC floor of 600 GSM.
✅ Worth mentioning: Compact storage pockets on the windows facilitate the practical storage of essentials. Then, to ensure warmth and comfort during chilly winter nights, an insulating diamond plate effectively retains heat, creating a pleasant environment inside the tent. What’s more, you get a tough 720GSM PVC travel cover that protects and keeps the tent clean during your trip.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ The ladder can be stiff initially but becomes much more flexible over time.
❌ Although it may not be able to accommodate large groups, it offers comfort and peace of mind.
Best 2-3 Persons Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tent: OVS Mamba Hard Shell
➤ Closed dimensions: 91”W x 55.5”H x 8”D
➤ Open dimensions: 91”W x 55.5”H x 64”D
➤ Weight: 250 lbs
The OVS Mamba, a pop-up roof tent, is known for its quick set-up and take-down, making it the ultimate choice for camping with a sleeping capacity of 3 people.
Despite its exceptional features, such as a roof rack system andripstopfile design, the Mamba stands out at a competitive price compared to its peers on the market.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ Durable body construction: Wear, tear, or leak? You won’t even think about it if your tent is long-lasting. The robust body construction is the benefit you will understand when you meet everything and everyone during your adventures. The shell of the Mamba is made of durable aluminum, the body fabric is made of premium rip-stop material with 100% waterproof properties, and all small hardware components in the tent are made of marine grade 304 stainless steel. Too many things in one place, so you should experience it.
✅ Amazing sleeping experience: First, you have plenty of room to stretch out, and that’s on the built-in 2″ memory foam mattress for a restful night’s sleep. Just so you know, you have an anti-condensation mat under the mattress, which is a big plus when the downpour is out. Second, the Mamba has a 1″ aluminum honeycomb insulation on its bottom, maintaining an ideal internal temperature, and all windows in Mamba are equipped with mesh screens, which effectively prevent insects and mosquitoes from disturbing your sleep.
✅ Super-fast setup: Install or pack the tent in less than 15-30 seconds. Although it sounds short, it is effective with built-in struts filled with nitrogen gas and a nylon pull strap like this tent. It’s easy to do, effortless, and you’ll even find it interesting.
✅ Add-on: Several pockets for storing accessories will remove unnecessary clutter and give you even more organization inside the tent. Accessories such as an adjustable 8.5-foot telescopic ladder for more accessible entry and exit will make your camping experience even more comfortable.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ The interior space is relatively limited; it can’t accommodate huge groups of campers, which is perfectly fine if there are three of you. This limitation can be considered if you prefer more spacious bedrooms or have additional storage equipment in the tent.
❌ This hard shell tent is quite heavy and affects the overall carrying capacity of the car. But your Jeep Cherokee will handle the extra weight of the roof tent without exceeding the load limit and compromising safety.
Best Family Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tent – Tuff Stuff Elite
➤ Open dimensions: 79 x 96 x 52 inches
➤ Closed dimensions: 79 x 48 x 16 inches
➤ Weight: 194 Lbs
My top tent for family camping is the Tuff Stuff Elite rooftop tent. Everything is included – size, spaciousness, and comfort for day and night relaxation with your kids. There is also an annex that provides additional accommodation for four more people. Well, that’s a lot of room, but let’s see what else there is.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ A spacious tent: As soon as you go camping as a family, you need to have enough space, especially since you give your kids the desired experience. It provides ample sleeping space for all of you, ensuring a comfortable and peaceful night’s rest, and it also boasts an impressive advantage — a spacious annex — ideal for large families.
✅ Comfortable for a good night’s sleep: You will experience real rest on two top-quality 2.75-inch mattresses, not only because you will sleep peacefully and soundly but because yripstop be ready for every action you have planned since the very morning. You need comfort when camping, and sleeping on this mattress is just that.
✅ Rainproof: Your kids will love camping in the rain. And that is only because they can enjoy their tent without the slightest chance of rain getting inside. Regardless of heavy downpours or challenging windy conditions, the insulated base of this tent makes your stay even more comfortable. And that’s all possible with the waterproof 280G cotton/poly ripstop fabric and 420D Oxford polyurethane raincoat providing 100% protection.
✅ Simplified setup process: Ease of assembly comes from a well-thought-out design and solid construction, and this tent excels at both. And as an extra benefit is flawless roof rack system compatibility, so lucky your Jeep Cherokee. Furthermore, the tent has two retractable ladders, providing convenient access to and from the tent.
✅ Additional features: The storage hammock net under the tent stores additional equipment such as camping gear, backpacks, luggage, or other essentials. Next, you have a travel cover that protects your tent from potential damage during transport. Then, you get a shoe bag in the package, a practical solution for storing your shoes. Finally, all the necessary installation hardware eliminates the need to search for additional tools or accessories.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ The overall handling of your vehicle can be affected by its bulkiness and rigid construction, which is usually the case when traveling for long periods.
❌ Setting up this tent can be tedious if you change campsites frequently.
Best Budget Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tent – OVS TMBK 3 Person
➤ Size closed: 57″W x 49.5″L x 11.5″H
➤ Size open: 56.5″W x 94.5″L x 50.25″H
➤ Weight: 100 lbs
If you’re on a budget, the OVS TMBK 3 is the tent for you. It fulfills all the requirements of a good and quality tent, taking into account the functions that correspond to the given price.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ Spacious – It may not be bulky, but it’s plenty of roomy for three people. More windows create an even bigger space while also refreshing it. You can open them completely, offering a wonderful sunrise view and creating an inviting ambiance during the evening.
✅ Water resistant – Extremely waterproof, with its 600D waterproof double-stop polyester cotton canvas and 420D Oxford polyester, you will experience comfortable camping in the rain. They are so durable they repel water perfectly, providing reliable protection against moisture. And the built-in rain cover is a great addition for even more protection.
✅ Easy to set up – Since you can easily mount it on 99.9% of OEM and aftermarket roof racks, I consider it one of the most compatible tents with a wide range of vehicle setups and a great roof rack system. The installation process is quick and easy, taking less than 5 minutes, so you can quickly embark on outdoor adventures.
✅ You’ll sleep like a log – A good night’s sleep is most important when you are exhausted. You’ll sleep like a child on a 2.3-inch high-density memory foam mattress. With its luxurious comfort, this mattress allows you to wake up refreshed in the morning, ready to take on the day’s adventures with renewed energy.
✅ Built-in skylight – In this tent, you can admire the twinkling stars and the soothing glow of the moonlight while lying in bed. Immerse yourself in its beauty while enjoying the comfortable comfort of your sleeping space with a built-in skylight.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ The shoe bag only holds two pairs of shoes, which is not enough, considering the tent is designed for three people.
❌ It is a bit smaller, but it is very cost-effective, especially if there are three of you camping.
Best High-End Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Top Tent – Freespirit Odyssey
➤ Interior dimensions: 48″W x 83″L x 43″H
➤ Exterior dimensions: 52″W x 87″L x 7.1″H
➤ Weight: 134 lbs
The Freespirit Odyssey is a great roof tent that provides a comfortable and practical camping experience. You get a high-quality roof tent with its durable construction, innovative features, and spacious interior.
It’s my best high-end choice, so look at its benefits.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ Tri-layer technology: Exclusive use in the case of the Freespirit Odyssey refers to the three-layer technical fabric. What exactly does that mean? It perfectly regulates the temperature of the tent, keeping it cool during hot summer days and warm during cold winter nights, providing optimal comfort regardless of the weather conditions. The 210D Poly-Oxford raincoat with silver and 3000mm polyurethane coating protects you most during the rain.
✅ Lightning-fast setup: Here’s how to set up this tent in less than 5 minutes. With its innovative gas strut technology, this tent allows you to effortlessly open and close it in an astonishingly fast 15-30 seconds. The setup process is almost automatic: unlock the latches and gently push them upright, and the tent will gently open on its own. It’s like someone is working for you!
✅ Zero MPG effect: With its low profile design, only 7 inches high, and aerodynamic design, this tent eliminates any reduction in the fuel consumption of your vehicle. Unlike others, it ensures you won’t experience a drop in MPG when mounted on your vehicle, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor adventures.
✅ Crossbar kit (optional): The Odyssey is intelligently designed to accommodate the mounting of the poles on the top of the tent, allowing you to attach accessories securely, and it can hold up to 250 lbs.
✅ What’s more: For practical lighting at night, you will have a built-in LED light strip with USB power for a pleasant atmosphere and relaxation. Also, the 1 1/4″ high-density foam mattress guarantees exceptional comfort and a restful night’s sleep. Plus, with the package, you also get a practical attachment ladder that allows easy access to and from the tent.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ Although it can comfortably accommodate several campers, it may not be ideal for larger groups or families as it has limited sleeping capacity.
❌ The downside of the Freespirit Odyssey roof tent is its height and weight setup. It generally requires lifting and attaching to the vehicle’s roof rack, which can be challenging for some individuals, especially if they lack the necessary strength or assistance.
UPDATE: Rooftop Tent Worth Mentioning – Roofnest Meadowlark
➤ Interior: 80″L x 43″W
➤ Exterior: 47″L x 44”W
➤ Weight: 90 lbs
➤ Included With Tent: 2.5″ Mattress, Tent Cover, 7.5′ Ladder (shipped separately), Universal Mounting Kit, Ladder Hardware Kit, 2 Detachable Pockets, Interior LED, and privacy tent.
The extraordinary tent of exceptional quality, innovative features, and affordability is worthy of mention and attention – Meadowlark.
Ultra-compact. Ultra-light. Ultra affordable. For just 90 pounds, the Meadowlark will fit the vehicle perfectly and sets a new standard in affordable luxury.
Key Features & Benefits You Get
✅ Quick installation: The fascinating aspect of the Meadowlark is its weight: at 90 pounds, it’s easy to mount. Pull off the cover, use the telescoping ladder to fold the tent, extend the integrated interior U-bar, and the campsite is set. Roofnest has reduced weight and simplified assembly by eliminating the traditional poles and ropes that tents typically rely on. You can pitch your tent in seconds, not minutes. The small weight also benefits Ford Raptors with lower-capacity roof rack crossbars.
✅ Lightning: Roofnest Meadowlark rooftop tent illuminates your shelter with a soft, ambient glow, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere inside the tent. Powered by a simple USB connection, the LED light strip is energy-efficient, ensuring you never run out of light while camping.
✅ Mattress for a good night’s sleep: This plush, supportive mattress ensures a comfortable night’s sleep. The dual-density foam construction perfectly balances softness and firmness, contouring your body for optimal comfort.
✅ Waterproofing: Crafted from 210D coated Polyoxford fabric with a waterproof rating of 3000mm, this rainfly ensures superior water resistance, keeping you dry and comfortable during rainy weather conditions. Be it a gentle drizzle or a heavy downpour, the waterproof construction of the rainfly acts as an impenetrable barrier, preventing moisture from seeping into your sleeping quarters.
What I Don’t Like About This Tent
❌ Limited headroom: The design of the Roofnest Meadowlark may result in relatively lower headroom than other tents.
❌ Weight and size: The Meadowlark Rooftop Tent is larger and heavier than other models, which may be challenging for vehicles with limited load capacity.
FAQ
What is the difference between roof racks and crossbars?
The roof rack refers to the complete system that encompasses all the components necessary for carrying cargo on the roof of a vehicle. Crossbars, on the other hand, are the specific bars within the roof rack system that create a foundation for attaching accessories and distributing the weight of the load across the roof. Crossbars are integral to the roof rack, allowing versatile attachment options based on the user’s needs.
Is it a good idea to have a rooftop tent?
A rooftop tent can be a great idea, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if a rooftop tent is right for you:
1. Camping Style: Rooftop tents are popular among outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping in remote or off-road locations. If you prefer to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or enjoy camping in areas where the ground might not suit a traditional tent, a rooftop tent can be a practical choice.
2. Convenience: Rooftop tents offer convenience in setup and packing up. They can be quickly deployed and packed away, saving time and effort compared to setting up a ground tent. This is especially useful if you’re frequently on the move or prefer to camp in different locations during your trip.
3. Space and Comfort: RTTs generally provide a comfortable sleeping area, often with built-in mattresses. They offer elevated views, protection from ground-level moisture, and insulation from cold or uneven ground. It can be a good option if you prioritize comfort and want a cozy sleeping space.
4. Vehicle Compatibility: Consider whether your vehicle is compatible with a rooftop tent. You’ll need a sturdy roof rack or bars to support the tent’s weight. Additionally, you should ensure that your vehicle’s height and weight limits allow for the installation of a rooftop tent.
5. Budget: Rooftop tents can be more expensive than traditional ground tents, so it’s essential to consider your budget. In addition to the tent, you may need to invest in a roof rack or bars if your vehicle doesn’t already have them—factor in these costs when determining if a rooftop tent is financially feasible.
6. Usage Frequency: A rooftop tent can be a worthwhile investment if you’re an avid camper and plan to use your tent frequently. However, suppose you only go camping occasionally or for a short duration. In that case, you may find that a traditional tent meets your needs without the added cost and setup associated with a rooftop tent.
Choosing a rooftop tent depends on your camping style, preferences, budget, and planned adventures. Consider these factors and weigh the pros and cons to determine if a rooftop tent aligns with your requirements.
Do rooftop tents use more fuel?
Rooftop tents can affect fuel efficiency due to their impact on the vehicle’s aerodynamics. When a rooftop tent is installed, it creates additional wind resistance, which can result in increased fuel consumption.
The specific impact on fuel consumption can vary depending on various factors, including the tent’s design, the vehicle’s shape, driving speed, and weather conditions. Generally, the higher the tent is mounted on the roof, the larger its size and the greater the effect on aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
The additional drag caused by a rooftop tent may lead to a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds or during highway driving. The actual increase in fuel consumption can vary between vehicles and may range from negligible to noticeable, depending on the factors above.
If fuel efficiency is a significant concern for you, it’s advisable to consider the aerodynamic design of the rooftop tent you intend to purchase. Some manufacturers offer models specifically designed to minimize wind resistance and reduce the impact on fuel consumption.
Additionally, maintaining moderate speeds and avoiding excessive wind exposure can help mitigate the effect on fuel efficiency.
It’s worth noting that the impact of a rooftop tent on fuel consumption is typically relatively small compared to other factors that affect fuel efficiency, such as driving style, tire pressure, and vehicle weight. Therefore, while rooftop tents may cause a slight increase in fuel consumption, it is generally not a significant factor for most users.
What are the disadvantages of a rooftop tent?
1. Vehicle Limitations: Rooftop tents require a vehicle with a roof rack or bars capable of supporting their weight. If your car does not have a suitable roof structure or weight capacity, you may need to invest in additional modifications or a different vehicle altogether. This can add to the overall cost and limit your options.
2. Increased Vehicle Height and Weight: Installing an RTT raises your overall height and weight. This can make it more challenging to navigate low-clearance areas, such as parking garages, drive-throughs, and branches on narrow trails. It’s essential to be mindful of these limitations and plan your routes accordingly.
3. Aerodynamic Impact: As mentioned earlier, rooftop tents can negatively affect the aerodynamics of your vehicle. The additional wind resistance can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased driving noise. It’s important to consider the potential impact on your vehicle’s performance and fuel consumption, especially during long trips.
4. Setup and Accessibility: While rooftop tents are generally easier and quicker to set up than traditional ground tents, they still require some effort to deploy and pack away. You will need to climb up and down the vehicle to access the tent, which can be inconvenient, particularly if you have physical limitations or are camping in inclement weather conditions.
5. Limited Living Space: Rooftop tents typically provide a comfortable sleeping area but have limited living space compared to larger ground tents or camper trailers. You may find the confined space restrictive if you plan to spend significant time inside the tent during your camping trips.
6. Cost: Rooftop tents are more expensive than traditional ground tents. In addition to the tent, you may need to invest in a roof rack or bars if your vehicle doesn’t already have them. The overall cost can be a significant factor, especially if you are on a tight budget.
It’s essential to weigh these disadvantages against the benefits and your specific needs to make an informed decision. Consider your camping style, vehicle suitability, budget, and the trade-offs you will make before purchasing a rooftop tent.
Are rooftop tents warm in winter?
Rooftop tents can provide adequate warmth in winter but require additional considerations to ensure comfort in cold weather conditions. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
1. Insulation: The insulation properties of an RTT play a crucial role in keeping it warm during winter. High-quality rooftop tents often feature insulation materials or layers for better heat retention. Look for tents with adequate insulation to help trap warmth inside the tent and keep cold air out.
2. Condensation: It can be a concern in colder temperatures, especially when warm air from inside the tent meets the hard surfaces of the tent fabric. To minimize condensation, ensure proper ventilation within the tent. Many rooftop tents have windows, vents, or mesh panels that can be opened or adjusted to allow for airflow while maintaining warmth.
3. Mattress and Bedding: The mattress in your RTT can influence how warm you feel during winter camping. Consider using a thicker or insulated sleeping pad or mattress to provide additional insulation from the cold ground. To retain body heat, use appropriate bedding, such as a cold-weather sleeping bag, blankets, or thermal liners.
4. Layering: Layering your clothing and using appropriate sleepwear is essential for staying warm inside the tent. Wear thermal or moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a warm outer layer. Wear hats, gloves, and warm socks to retain body heat.
5. Heating Solutions: Inicyd conditions, you may consider additional heating solutions to supplement the tent’s warmth. Portable heaters designed for camping can help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the tent. However, ensure that any heating device is safe and suitable inside an enclosed space.
6. Location and Weather: The location and weather conditions during your winter camping trip will also impact the warmth of your rooftop tent. Camp in areas with natural windbreaks, such as trees or hills, to minimize exposure to cold winds. Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for changes in temperature and precipitation.
Remember that while rooftop tents can offer warmth in winter, they may not provide the same level of insulation as a well-insulated building or camper trailer. It’s essential to be prepared and make appropriate adjustments to ensure comfort and safety in cold weather.
Order Your Roof Top Tent For Jeep Grand Cherokee Today!
Following your needs, this text has given you all the information about the Jeep Cherokee roof tents that will be important to you when purchasing.
Whether it’s the Roam Vagabond XL as the best overall or the OVS Mamba for 2-3 people, the choice is yours.
If you’ve got the whole family hooked on camping, the Tuff Stuff Elite is the tent for you and your kids.
In addition, for you on a budget, the TMBK 3-person as the top tent for great money and the best high-end Freespirit Odyssey, which is also a perfect option for the great outdoors by all parameters.
Also, check out my article on 99+ road trip essentials to ensure you don’t forget anything for your overland adventure.
Happy purchase!
