Choosing a soft shell rooftop tent for an SUV means balancing sleeping room against the weight and roof space your vehicle can handle. My leading picks serve different priorities: the Roofnest Meadowlark is the lightest option here for two-person trips, the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 4 offers the most room for a group, and the Meedo Apolle TNT L pairs three-person capacity with a skylight and multiple vents.
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The tradeoffs are substantial. These tents weigh from 90 to 183 pounds, and the largest models need more roof area and stronger rack support. I rank them by how well their capacity, stated weather features, portability, and included equipment suit SUV camping—not by a single feature in isolation. Before choosing, match the tent’s weight and mounting needs to your vehicle and rack specifications.
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Key Takeaways
For a lighter two-person setup: The 90-pound Roofnest Meadowlark is the easiest model in this group to shortlist for SUVs with tighter load limits.
For four sleepers: The 183-pound OVS Nomadic 4 has the highest listed capacity, but its size and weight call for careful rack and vehicle checks.
For three people with ventilation options: Meedo’s Apolle TNT L adds four side vents, windows, and a skylight, while weighing 134.5 pounds.
For family conveniences: Garvee includes an LED light and telescopic ladder, though its 148-pound weight makes installation a two-person task for many buyers.
For a two-person layout with generous listed floor dimensions: Meedo’s Apolle A86 M lists a 90.5-inch floor length, but its 125-pound weight is far above the Meadowlark’s.
| Roofnest Meadowlark Soft Shell Roof Top Tent for Car Camping and Overlanding |  | Best Overall for Lighter Two-Person SUV Setups | Occupancy: 2 people | Weight: 90 pounds | Floor dimensions: 80 x 43 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent |  | Best for Groups That Need Four-Person Capacity | Occupancy: 4 people | Weight: 183 pounds | Dimensions: 122 x 75 x 51 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for 3 People |  | Best Three-Person Pick for Ventilation and Views | Occupancy: 3 people | Weight: 134.5 pounds | Dimensions: 86.61 x 48.43 x 51.18 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Garvee Rooftop Tent Soft Shell with Telescopic Ladder and LED Light |  | Best for Families Prioritizing a Higher Stated Waterproof Rating | Occupancy: 3 people | Weight: 148 pounds | Dimensions: 86.6 x 51.2 x 48.4 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Meedo Apolle A86 M Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for 2 People |  | Best Two-Person Choice for a Longer Listed Sleeping Floor | Occupancy: 2 people | Weight: 125 pounds | Floor dimensions: 90.5 x 55 inches | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| soft shell rooftop tent for suv | Occupancy | Weight | Included | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roofnest Meadowlark Soft Shell | 2 people | 90 pounds | 2.5-inch foam mattress, 7.5-foot ladder, cover, mounting kit | 2 years |
| Overland Vehicle Systems HD No | 4 people | 183 pounds | — | 4-year limited warranty |
| Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L Sof | 3 people | 134.5 pounds | 2.3-meter ladder, mounting hardware, LED strip, tools | — |
| Garvee Rooftop Tent Soft Shell | 3 people | 148 pounds | Bed, telescopic ladder, LED light | — |
| Meedo Apolle A86 M Soft Shell | 2 people | 125 pounds | Ladder, foam pad, manual, accessories | 1 year |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Roofnest Meadowlark Soft Shell Roof Top Tent for Car Camping and Overlanding
The Meadowlark earns my top spot because it addresses a common SUV constraint: keeping rooftop weight manageable. At 90 pounds, it is the lightest tent in this lineup by a wide margin, and it still includes a 2.5-inch foam mattress, ladder, cover, and universal mounting kit. That combination makes it a sensible first shortlist for two people who want a complete setup without the 125- to 183-pound loads of the other models.
Its listed floor is 80 inches long and 43 inches wide, so the tradeoff for lower weight is a narrower sleeping area and a strict two-person capacity. Compared with Meedo’s A86 M, the Meadowlark is 35 pounds lighter, while the A86 M lists a longer and wider floor. The Meadowlark’s stated setup time is under a minute, which suits frequent weekend trips, though the product notes that assembly and pack-down may take practice. It is the strongest all-around pick here for couples, not a family tent or a roomy option for sleepers who need extra width.
Pros:- At 90 pounds, it is the lightest model in this comparison.
- Includes a foam mattress, ladder, tent cover, and universal mounting kit.
- Listed setup time is under a minute.
- Seam-taped construction and a waterproof design are stated for year-round use.
Cons:- Sleeps only two and has a 43-inch floor width.
- Pack-down and assembly may take practice despite the quick-setup claim.
Best for: Two adults seeking a lighter, ready-to-mount tent for a compatible SUV and regular weekend camping.
Not ideal for: Families, three-person groups, or anyone who needs a broad sleeping surface or maximum interior room.
- Occupancy:2 people
- Weight:90 pounds
- Floor dimensions:80 x 43 inches
- Maximum height:40 inches
- Material:Polycotton with aluminum poles
- Weather details:Waterproof, seam-taped construction stated
- Included:2.5-inch foam mattress, 7.5-foot ladder, cover, mounting kit
- Warranty:2 years
Our verdict“I would start with the Meadowlark if two people want the least roof weight in this comparison and do not need extra sleeping capacity.”
Overland Vehicle Systems HD Nomadic 4 Extended Soft Shell Rooftop Tent
When sleeping capacity comes first, the Nomadic 4 is the clear group pick: it is the only model here listed for four people. Its 122-by-75-inch dimensions give it a much larger footprint than the three-person tents, and an insulated base, breathable windows, storage options, and a 96-inch telescoping ladder add practical details for longer outings. The listed four-year limited warranty is also longer than the warranties specified for the two Meedo tents and the Meadowlark.
That capacity comes with the hardest SUV fit question in this roundup. At 183 pounds, it is the heaviest option, and its 122-inch length and 75-inch width demand careful attention to rack dimensions and rated load limits. Compared with Garvee’s three-person tent at 148 pounds, the OVS adds another sleeper but also 35 pounds. I would choose it only after verifying that the complete roof system is approved for the load; the supplied details do not establish compatibility with every SUV. For a couple or small family, the Meadowlark or a three-person tent is easier to justify.
Pros:- Highest listed capacity in this group at four people.
- Large 122-by-75-inch dimensions and insulated base.
- Breathable windows and multiple storage options are included in the description.
- A 96-inch aluminum telescoping ladder and four-year limited warranty are specified.
Cons:- At 183 pounds, it is the heaviest tent in the roundup.
- Its large footprint may not suit every SUV roof or rack.
- Installation and handling are likely to require help.
Best for: Groups who need a listed four-person tent and have an SUV rack and roof system rated for its size and weight.
Not ideal for: Solo campers, couples prioritizing easy handling, or SUVs with limited roof capacity or mounting space.
- Occupancy:4 people
- Weight:183 pounds
- Dimensions:122 x 75 x 51 inches
- Shell material:600D rip-stop polyester-cotton canvas and 420D polyester Oxford
- Base:Heavy-duty black diamond-plated base
- Weather and comfort:Waterproof, breathable windows, insulated base
- Ladder:96-inch aluminum telescoping
- Warranty:4-year limited warranty
Our verdict“I recommend the Nomadic 4 for group capacity only when the SUV’s rack, roof rating, and available mounting area have been checked.”
Meedo Designs Apolle TNT L Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for 3 People
The Apolle TNT L offers a useful middle ground between a two-person tent and the very large OVS model. Its three-person capacity is paired with four side vents, windows, and a skylight, giving campers more ways to manage airflow and enjoy an open view than the product details list for the Garvee. A bi-fold design is intended to speed setup, and the package includes a 2.3-meter ladder, mounting hardware, tools, and an LED light strip.
Its listed 134.5-pound weight is still a substantial rooftop load, though it comes in 13.5 pounds below Garvee and 48.5 pounds below the OVS. The stated 4,000 mm waterproof rating is lower than Garvee’s listed 10,000 mm, so buyers prioritizing the higher published water-resistance figure may prefer Garvee. The floor width is listed as 59.06 inches, but the dimensions and floor-width figures should be checked against your intended sleeping layout. This is a feature-rich option for three, not a light or compact choice for a smaller SUV.
Pros:- Sleeps three and includes four side vents, windows, and a skylight.
- Bi-fold design is intended to make setup faster.
- Includes a 2.3-meter aluminum ladder, mounting hardware, tools, and LED light strip.
- Listed weight is lower than the Garvee and OVS models.
Cons:- At 134.5 pounds, it still needs careful roof and rack load checks.
- Its 4,000 mm rating is lower than Garvee’s stated 10,000 mm.
- Large dimensions may be awkward on smaller SUV roofs.
Best for: Three-person groups who value ventilation choices, a skylight, and included mounting accessories.
Not ideal for: SUV owners prioritizing the lowest possible roof load, or buyers who want the highest stated waterproof rating in this selection.
- Occupancy:3 people
- Weight:134.5 pounds
- Dimensions:86.61 x 48.43 x 51.18 inches
- Water resistance:4,000 mm
- Fabric:Coated Oxford fabric
- Frame:Aluminum alloy
- Ventilation:Four side vents, windows, and skylight
- Included:2.3-meter ladder, mounting hardware, LED strip, tools
Our verdict“I would choose the Apolle TNT L for a three-person crew that values airflow and a skylight more than low weight or the highest listed water-resistance rating.”
Garvee Rooftop Tent Soft Shell with Telescopic Ladder and LED Light
Garvee is a practical family-oriented option for buyers who want room for two adults and one child plus useful built-in touches. Its listed 10,000 mm water-resistance rating is the highest explicit figure among these five tents, and the description adds UV-resistant materials, an aluminum frame, stainless steel brackets, and ventilated windows. A telescopic ladder and integrated LED light mean fewer small accessories to source for basic nighttime use.
At 148 pounds, though, it is heavier than the three-person Apolle TNT L and far heavier than the two-person Meadowlark. Its dimensions—86.6 by 51.2 by 48.4 inches—are less extensive than the OVS four-person footprint, and the stated capacity is limited to three. That makes it a better match for a small family than a larger group. The 10,000 mm figure is a product specification, not a guarantee of performance in every storm, so buyers should also review care, seams, and installation guidance before relying on it for severe weather.
Pros:- Listed 10,000 mm water-resistance rating and UV-resistant materials.
- Sleeps two adults and one child.
- Includes a telescopic ladder and integrated LED light.
- Aluminum frame and stainless steel brackets are specified.
Cons:- At 148 pounds, it is a heavy choice for many SUV roof systems.
- Three-person capacity will not suit larger families or groups.
- The listed waterproof rating alone does not describe seam or storm performance.
Best for: A small family seeking a three-person tent with an integrated light, ladder, and a high stated water-resistance rating.
Not ideal for: SUV owners trying to minimize rooftop weight, or groups needing four-person capacity.
- Occupancy:3 people
- Weight:148 pounds
- Dimensions:86.6 x 51.2 x 48.4 inches
- Water resistance:10,000 mm stated rating
- Materials:Aluminum frame, PVC coating
- Season claim:Four-season
- Included:Bed, telescopic ladder, LED light
- Color:Black
Our verdict“I would shortlist Garvee for a small family that values its stated water-resistance rating and built-in lighting, provided the SUV can support the load.”
Meedo Apolle A86 M Soft Shell Rooftop Tent for 2 People
The Apolle A86 M stands apart from the Meadowlark by favoring floor length over low weight. Meedo lists a 90.5-inch floor length and 55-inch floor width, larger measurements than the Meadowlark’s 80-by-43-inch sleeping area. For two adults who want more room to stretch out, those dimensions may matter more than a lighter installation. The package also includes a foam pad and ladder, with five windows and two doors listed for access and ventilation.
The tradeoff is weight: at 125 pounds, it is 35 pounds heavier than the Meadowlark, while both are listed for two people. The Apolle TNT L is only 9.5 pounds heavier and sleeps three, so it may be the better use of roof capacity for some households. The A86 M’s listed maximum height of 10.63 inches appears alongside a separate product dimension that may describe a packed profile; buyers should confirm the deployed interior height and fit details with the seller. Its one-year warranty is also shorter than the Meadowlark’s two-year coverage.
Pros:- Listed sleeping floor measures 90.5 inches long and 55 inches wide.
- Includes a foam pad, ladder, and accessories.
- Two doors and five windows provide multiple access and airflow points.
- Waterproof coating and a rainfly are specified.
Cons:- At 125 pounds, it is substantially heavier than the Meadowlark.
- Sleeps only two despite its larger listed floor dimensions.
- One-year warranty is shorter than the Meadowlark’s two-year warranty.
Best for: Two adults who want the longer listed floor dimensions and multiple windows more than a low-weight installation.
Not ideal for: SUV owners with strict roof-load limits, campers needing three-person capacity, or buyers prioritizing a longer warranty.
- Occupancy:2 people
- Weight:125 pounds
- Floor dimensions:90.5 x 55 inches
- Water resistance:Waterproof 4,000+ coating stated
- Materials:Aluminum alloy frame, polyester rainfly
- Doors and windows:2 doors, 5 windows
- Included:Ladder, foam pad, manual, accessories
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“I would pick the A86 M over the Meadowlark only when its larger listed floor matters more than the Meadowlark’s lower weight and longer warranty.”
How We Picked
I compared these five tents as SUV-mounted soft shells, focusing on the details that most affect ownership: sleeping capacity, packed and installed weight, stated weather protection, usable interior features, and what comes in the box. A tent that sleeps four can be the wrong pick for an SUV whose rack cannot support its weight, while a lighter two-person model may be a better match for regular weekend use.
I also weighed differences between the supplied specifications rather than treating broad claims such as “four season” as proof of identical performance. For example, the Meedo Apolle TNT L lists a 4,000 mm waterproof rating, while Garvee lists 10,000 mm; those figures help distinguish the stated fabric protection, but do not tell the whole story about seams, setup, or exposure. I gave credit to useful included gear—mattresses, ladders, mounting hardware, and lighting—because buying fewer separate items can simplify a first setup.
My ranking favors a clear fit for a common SUV buyer, not maximum capacity alone. The Meadowlark ranks first for its comparatively low 90-pound weight and ready-to-use package. The OVS takes the group-capacity role, while the three-person Meedo and Garvee models trade extra room for heavier loads. The A86 M rounds out the list as a two-person alternative with ample listed floor length, but it is not the lighter choice. I cannot confirm compatibility for every specific SUV from the product details alone; check your roof, rack, and mounting instructions before buying.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Soft Shell Rooftop Tent For Suvs
I would narrow the choice by checking vehicle fit first, then deciding how much sleeping room and weather protection you actually need. A larger tent does not make a better SUV setup if the rack cannot carry it or the tent overhangs the mounting area beyond the manufacturer’s limits.
Check the SUV roof and rack load ratings
Start with the SUV and roof-rack maker’s instructions, not the tent’s capacity label. Confirm the rack’s permitted load, mounting spread, crossbar spacing, and any limits for driving versus camping. A tent’s listed weight is only part of the installed load; occupants, bedding, and accessories also matter for the parked setup. The 90-pound Meadowlark is the most manageable starting point here, while the 183-pound Nomadic 4 calls for especially careful checks. Ask the vehicle or rack maker if the dynamic and parked load limits are unclear.
Choose capacity by real sleeping needs
Manufacturers’ person counts are not a promise of generous personal space. The OVS Nomadic 4 is the only four-person option, while Garvee and the Apolle TNT L list three-person capacity. Both Meedo and Roofnest list two. For adults sharing a tent, compare floor width and length rather than relying only on a capacity number: the A86 M lists the longest floor in this group, while the Meadowlark is narrower and lighter. I would leave room for bedding and personal gear when deciding whether a child can share comfortably.
Compare weather specifications carefully
Several models carry a four-season claim, but the listed details differ. Garvee specifies 10,000 mm water resistance; the Apolle TNT L lists 4,000 mm, and the A86 M states a 4,000+ coating. The OVS describes waterproof materials and an insulated base, while Roofnest lists waterproof, seam-taped construction. These claims are useful for comparison, but they do not provide identical evidence about seam design, ventilation in rain, wind limits, or care. Read full manufacturer guidance and plan to dry and store the tent as directed.
Think through lifting and setup
A rooftop tent must be lifted onto the rack and secured, so weight affects more than fuel use or handling. It also changes how practical installation and seasonal storage will be. The Meadowlark’s 90 pounds gives it a clear advantage over every other pick for handling. The products list ladders, and several include mounting hardware or lights, but an included ladder does not remove the need to lift the closed tent onto the vehicle. Plan for adequate help and follow the tent’s mounting instructions.
Match useful extras to how you camp
Small features can distinguish otherwise similar capacity choices. The TNT L’s skylight and multiple vents favor campers who want airflow and a view; Garvee includes an LED light; and the OVS lists storage options and an insulated base. The Meadowlark’s package combines a mattress, ladder, cover, and mounting kit, which may simplify a first setup. Decide which features you will use often, then compare them against weight, sleeping space, and rack fit rather than treating every included accessory as equally valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any of these rooftop tents fit any SUV?
No. Compatibility depends on the SUV’s roof and rack ratings, crossbar spacing, mounting points, available roof area, and the tent maker’s fitting instructions. “Universal” mounting hardware does not mean every vehicle is approved for every tent. Check both the vehicle and rack documentation before purchase, especially for the heavier Nomadic 4, Garvee, and Apolle TNT L.
Which tent is the lightest option for an SUV?
The Roofnest Meadowlark is the lightest listed model at 90 pounds, 35 pounds lighter than the Meedo Apolle A86 M and 93 pounds lighter than the OVS Nomadic 4. Its lower weight can simplify handling, but it sleeps only two and has a narrower listed floor than the A86 M. Confirm your rack’s permitted load even for the lightest option.
Which model has the most room for sleepers?
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 4 has the highest listed capacity at four people and the largest stated footprint, 122 by 75 inches. It also weighs 183 pounds, making fit and rack capacity central parts of the decision. For three people, the Apolle TNT L and Garvee are the listed alternatives; neither matches the OVS capacity for a larger group.
Does a four-season label mean a tent is suitable for every kind of weather?
No. A season label alone does not specify safe wind limits, how well seams handle prolonged rain, condensation management, snow loading, or the temperatures a tent can handle. Compare the stated materials and water-resistance information, follow setup and care instructions, and check the manufacturer’s guidance for the conditions you expect. I would not treat a waterproof rating by itself as a guarantee for severe weather.
Should I choose the Meedo A86 M or the Roofnest Meadowlark for two people?
I would favor the Meadowlark if lower weight, included mounting gear, and its two-year warranty matter most; it weighs 90 pounds. The A86 M is the better comparison for buyers who value its listed 90.5-by-55-inch floor and multiple windows, but it weighs 125 pounds and has a one-year warranty. Verify the A86 M’s deployed height and fit details before choosing it.
Conclusion
My recommendations depend on the SUV and the people sleeping in the tent. For two adults prioritizing easier handling, I would start with the 90-pound Roofnest Meadowlark. For four-person capacity, the OVS Nomadic 4 is the clear fit, provided the vehicle and rack can support its size and 183-pound weight. For three sleepers who want ventilation and a skylight, I would compare the Apolle TNT L with Garvee: the Meedo has more listed ventilation features and weighs less, while Garvee states the higher water-resistance rating and includes an LED light. For two adults wanting a longer listed sleeping floor, the A86 M is worth a look, but its extra weight makes it a different choice from the Meadowlark. My final check would always be the vehicle and rack documentation, followed by a careful review of the tent’s fit and setup instructions.
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