Skip to content

Building Your Own DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent

For outdoor enthusiasts who love camping and adventure, a roof top tent can be a game changer With a roof top tent, you can elevate your camping experience by sleeping off the ground and staying safe from critters and the elements While hard shell roof top tents are known for their durability and easy setup, they can also come with a hefty price tag If you’re looking to save some money and enjoy the satisfaction of building something yourself, consider making your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.

Building a DIY hard shell roof top tent may sound intimidating, but with some creativity, patience, and basic carpentry skills, it is achievable By following these steps, you can create a custom roof top tent that meets your specific needs and fits your budget.

**Materials Needed:**
– Hard shell case (such as a cargo carrier or tool box)
– Plywood
– Hinges
– Latches
– Foam mattress
– Fabric for tent cover
– Zipper
– Sewing kit
– Drill
– Screws
– Saw

**Steps to Build a DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent:**

1 **Select Your Hard Shell Case:** The first step in building your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to choose a sturdy hard shell case that will serve as the base of your tent Cargo carriers or tool boxes are popular options, as they are durable and weatherproof Make sure the case is large enough to comfortably fit a foam mattress and allow room for you to sleep.

2 **Cut Plywood Platform:** Measure and cut a piece of plywood to fit inside the hard shell case This will serve as the platform for your mattress Make sure the platform is sturdy enough to support your weight and the mattress.

3 **Attach Hinges and Latches:** Attach hinges to one side of the plywood platform and to the inside of the hard shell case This will allow you to easily lift the platform up and down to access the interior of the tent diy hard shell roof top tent. Install latches on the opposite side to secure the platform in place when the tent is in use.

4 **Add Mattress:** Place a foam mattress on top of the plywood platform Make sure the mattress fits snugly inside the hard shell case and provides a comfortable sleeping surface.

5 **Fabricate Tent Cover:** Measure and cut a piece of fabric to serve as the tent cover Sew a zipper along one edge of the fabric to allow for easy access to the tent Attach the fabric to the hard shell case using screws or adhesive.

6 **Install on Roof Rack:** Once your DIY hard shell roof top tent is complete, attach it to your vehicle’s roof rack using straps or mounting brackets Make sure the tent is securely fastened to the roof rack to prevent any accidents while driving.

By following these steps and using your creativity and skills, you can create a custom DIY hard shell roof top tent that is both functional and budget-friendly Not only will you save money by building your own tent, but you will also have the satisfaction of knowing that you created something unique and tailored to your specific needs.

In conclusion, building a DIY hard shell roof top tent is a rewarding project for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping and adventure With some basic materials and tools, you can create a custom tent that provides a comfortable and secure sleeping space while exploring the great outdoors So why wait? Roll up your sleeves and start building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent today!