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How to Buy a Rooftop Tent for Your Overland Setup

How to · Auto

How to Buy a Rooftop Tent for Your Overland Setup

A rooftop tent turns your car into a campsite, but buying one requires timing the market and spreading out the cost.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,800 before anything else
Across the 0% window $100.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,800 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A fold-out rooftop tent changes how you travel, letting you pull over and set up camp in minutes. At about $1800, it is a significant gear investment that demands a smart strategy to avoid draining your savings at once.

Wait until late October to start shopping. This is when retailers clear out summer inventory to make room for winter gear, which is your best shot at finding a lower price on a durable model.

The 0% window is a deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance after the 18 months are up, the card will start charging interest on whatever you still owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Wait for the October dip

    Retailers have to clear floor space before winter. Watch the sites you like in late October when end-of-season sales start to hit.

  2. 02

    Set a monthly budget

    If you spend $1800, you need to be able to pay $100.00 per month. If your budget cannot handle that monthly hit, wait until you have more cash on hand.

  3. 03

    Use your financing window

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you stretch that $1800 cost over 18 months without paying extra in interest.

  4. 04

    Confirm the install costs

    Most tents come with mounting hardware, but some roof racks need specific adapters. Factor in another $100 to $200 for these parts so you aren't surprised when the tent arrives.

  5. 05

    Check the weight limits

    Your car's roof has a weight limit while driving and while parked. Make sure your vehicle can handle the tent weight plus the people sleeping in it.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

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

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I buy a used tent?

Used tents are a great way to save money if the fabric is clean and the hinges are smooth. Always check for mold or rips in the canvas before you hand over any cash.

Do I need a professional to install it?

You can usually do it yourself with a friend, but it is heavy. It is safer to have two people lift it onto the roof racks to avoid scratching your paint.

Is the 0% interest really zero?

Yes, as long as you make your minimum monthly payments on time. If you miss a payment, you might lose that offer entirely.

What if I can't pay it off in 18 months?

If you have a balance left when the 18 months are over, the interest rate kicks in on the remaining amount. Pay more than the minimum whenever you can to get ahead of that date.