Ground Tent, Rooftop Tent, or Van Camping: Pros and Cons

Everyone has a different definition of camping and how they like to enjoy the outdoors. When it comes to sleeping quarters some of the most popular are a ground tent, rooftop tent, or a van. Each of these methods has its pros and its cons, and one might be better (or worse) for you. So, let’s look at each.

Ground Tent

Pros: Ground tents are lightweight, super portable, and can be set up just about anywhere there’s level ground. Compared to other means, ground tents are more affordable than a rooftop tent (or a van), and can be thrown into a duffle bag, backpack, trunk, or cargo box for when you’re traveling. And if you’re hiking, it’s the only way. There are a host of versions, from small backpacking tents, large family tents, or off-the-ground swag tents.

Cons: The biggest con to most ground tents is you’re on the cold hard ground. There are potential pitfalls such as rain, snow, or even animals can easily intrude on your sleeping area. Most people use a sleeping pad inside to put their sleeping bag on, so that adds another piece of kit to carry. Ground tents can have long setup and tear-down times, too, thanks to complicated poles, stakes, guy lines, and rain flies.

Bottom Line: Ground tents are portable, lightweight, and have their place, but for some, there may be better options.

Rooftop Tent

Pros: Most rooftop tents are quick and easy to set up and can be deployed in only a few minutes. When it’s time to break camp, they’re a cinch to stow, too. Many have thick fabric that’s good in foul weather, and most include a mattress. There are a variety of sizes ranging from two-person tents to versions that’ll fit the whole family. Rooftop tents also allow campers to be off the ground for less worry about animal intrusion or getting flooded (or snowed) out in bad weather. Some rooftop tents even have electrical USB ports, lights, pockets for storing clothing and gear. Plus, there’s also a cool factor to them.

Cons: Rooftop tents are more expensive than ground tents. You also need an appropriate roof rack on a vehicle to mount it. Additionally, they will cut into a rig’s fuel economy and can create additional wind noise at highway speeds. They will also add more weight to the vehicle. And unless you have one mounted on a trailer to leave at camp, they’re always attached to your ride increasing its center of gravity.

Bottom Line: Quick to put up and take down, rooftop tents offer some excellent benefits over ground tents. However, they’re more expensive and have to go everywhere your rig goes.

Vans

Pros: Van camping runs a broad spectrum, whether it’s a fully built out Sprinter van, a JDM Mitsubishi Delica 4x4 van, or just an old van with a sleeping bag inside. One thing is for sure: they’re the best in bad weather. You won’t hear the wind as much as a ground tent or rooftop tent, and they are generally far more watertight. Nothing offers more protection from animals, either. Of course, some vans can have all the comforts of home including stoves, fridge/freezers, and running water. If you want the most protection from outside elements, van camping is the way to go.

Cons: A van is clearly the most expensive route in most instances, especially high-end vans like Mercedes-Benz Sprinters or Ford Transits. The inside of a van can also get much hotter than a tent, especially if you’re camping in warm climates. A van is also much more of a commitment and requires all the maintenance of a car or truck, insurance, and more.

Bottom Line: Van life offers great protection from the elements, animals, and is the most secure for your gear. However, it’s a commitment, and a potentially expensive one.

Which is Right For You?

Think about your individual needs. Do you need the portability of a ground tent? Maybe you prefer the quick set-up and tear-down of a rooftop tent. Maybe you like the security of a van. No matter how you camp, there’s a method that’ll suit your needs.