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How to Pay for a Hardshell Roof-Top Tent

How to · Auto

How to Pay for a Hardshell Roof-Top Tent

Upgrade your camping setup without draining your savings by timing your purchase and managing your payments.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $186.67/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,800 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A hardshell tent turns your car into a basecamp, but the price tag is usually around $2800. These shells are durable and fast to set up, but they are a significant investment that takes up space in your garage and adds wind resistance to your daily drive.

Wait until late summer when retailers clear floor models to make room for new inventory. You can often save a few hundred dollars by grabbing a unit that has been on display, as long as you inspect the hardware for wear.

The 0% intro APR is a deadline, not a pass to skip payments. If you still have a balance after the 15 months, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount, which will quickly cost you more than the savings you found on the tent.

The steps

  1. 01

    Search for floor models

    Call local outdoor shops in late August or September. Ask if they are clearing out their floor models, which can knock a significant chunk off the $2800 retail price.

  2. 02

    Negotiate the total

    Since floor models have been opened and closed by customers, don't be afraid to ask for a further discount. Focus on the total out-the-door price before mentioning how you plan to pay.

  3. 03

    Set up your payment window

    Use the Discover it® Cash Back card, which offers 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. This gives you a 15-month window to pay off the tent in manageable chunks without paying interest.

  4. 04

    Automate your monthly payment

    To cover a $2800 cost, set up an automatic payment of $186.67 each month. This ensures you pay off the balance entirely before the promotional period expires.

  5. 05

    Inspect the mounting hardware

    Before your first trip, double-check all bolts and locking mechanisms. A floor model might be missing a small piece of hardware that you need to source from the manufacturer.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Will a rooftop tent hurt my gas mileage?

Yes, because of the extra wind resistance. Expect to lose a few miles per gallon, especially at highway speeds.

Are floor models worth the discount?

Usually, yes. Just check the hinges and the fabric for tears, as these are the parts that get the most wear from store customers.

What happens if I miss a payment?

You might lose your promotional 0% rate. Always set up autopay for at least the minimum amount to stay in good standing.

Do I need special roof racks?

Yes, your car needs crossbars that can handle the weight of the tent while driving. Check your vehicle's manual for the maximum roof load rating.