For first-time overlanders, understanding setup and teardown times is vital. A vehicle roof top tent can transform weekend trips into elevated adventures, but novices often worry about lengthy assembly. In this guide, we’ll break down realistic expectations, model-specific timings for the Thule Approach Roof Tent, the Dometic TRT120E and the Dometic TRT 140 Air Roof Top Tent, and easy wins to shave off precious minutes at camp.
Why Setup Time Matters
Time spent pitching and packing your tent impacts every stage of your journey:
- Arriving at dusk means limited daylight for assembly.
- Rain or strong winds can double your usual setup duration.
- Family or solo travellers need to budget both daylight and energy for a stress-free evening.
Industry testing shows that a well-practised overlander can pitch a rooftop tent in under five minutes, whereas a beginner might take 10–15 minutes. Equipping yourself with clear steps and the right tools can cut your times in half.
Typical Pitch & Pack Times by Model
Thule Approach Roof Tent
- Soft-shell design with quick to set up: unzip the travel cover, unfold the base and you are ready to camp in under three minutes
- Average pitch time for newcomers: 3-4 minutes.
- Pack-away time: 4–8 minutes, thanks to assisted closure.
Dometic TRT120E Roof Top Tent
- Soft-shell entry-level tent.
- Pitch: roughly 8–10 minutes for a first-timer, including unfolding the ladder and ratchet straps.
- Teardown: approximately 10–12 minutes, factoring in mattress stowage and canopy folding.
Dometic TRT 140 Air Roof Top Tent
- Inflatable design with integrated pump and air beam supports.
- Pitch: 6–8 minutes (pump inflation takes around 3 minutes of that).
- Pack-away: 12–15 minutes, with extra time for deflation and careful folding of air beams.
These figures assume a flat surface and moderate weather. Experience, terrain and accessories (mattress removals, annex attachments) will influence your personal timings.
Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Pre-Staging (1–2 minutes)
Store ladder, straps and annex poles in a side bag ready for instant access. - Unlatch & Lift (2–5 minutes)
Hard-shell tents pop open with minimal effort; soft-shell and inflatable tents require manual unfolding and inflation. - Secure Ladder & Entry (1–3 minutes)
Clip ladder hooks, adjust feet for level ground, and lock into position. - Final Checks (1–2 minutes)
Fasten all interior straps, deploy rainfly or annex, and tuck away loose ends.
For teardown, reverse these steps while paying extra attention to neatly folding canvases and properly stowing the pump or gas struts to prolong tent life.
Tips to Speed Up Your Routine
- Label Your Straps: Colour-coded or numbered straps speed up matching anchor points.
- Practice at Home: A dry run on the driveway builds muscle memory and confidence.
- Use Quick-Release Mounts: Investing in fast-action brackets reduces latching time.
- Pre-Inflate Mattress: If your tent has an air mattress, pump it up at home to avoid fumbling with the on-board pump in the cold.
These easy wins can shave off 30–40 percent of initial setup time for beginners.
FAQs for First-Timers
Q: Do I need two people?
A: Most modern vehicle roof top tent systems—from the Thule Approach to the Dometic range—are designed for solo pitching once you’re familiar with the process.
Q: How does weather affect timing?
A: Wind and rain can double your usual time, as you’ll need to secure rainfly lines and manage condensation.
Q: Can I leave my rooftop tent mounted year-round?
A: Yes, but regularly check mounting hardware and lubricate locks to ensure swift deployment.
Ready to Elevate Your Adventures?
Equipped with these realistic timeframes and practical tips, you can confidently estimate how long it takes to pitch and pack away your vehicle roof top tent—no more guesswork at the threshold of camp.
Discover the ideal model for your journeys and book a professional fitting with Rose Awnings. Learn more about our Thule Approach Roof Tent, Dometic TRT120E and Dometic TRT 140 Air Roof Top Tent offerings.
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