Rooftop Tent vs Ground Tent: Pros & Cons for Your Camp

Camping across Australia is as much about freedom as it is about the gear you take with you. And when it comes to overnight shelter, one big decision can shape your whole experience: choosing between a rooftop tent and a ground tent.

Whether you’re planning a remote 4WD trip, a coast-to-coast road tour, or trying out a few different camping styles closer to home, selecting the right shelter is key. Some travellers prioritise speed and convenience, while others want more space, flexibility, or a tighter budget.

In this guide, we cover the pros and cons of each setup, comparing comfort, weather protection, cost, flexibility and more to help you choose the best shelter for your next camping trip.

Setup Time & Convenience

When you pull into camp late or in the rain, efficiency matters. That’s why ease of setup is a major consideration when comparing a roof-mounted tent to a ground-based alternative.

Most rooftop tents are built for quick and easy use. Just unlatch, drop the ladder beside your 4WD or trailer, and your bed is ready with the mattress already inside. Some models include gas struts or arms that open on their own, which suits campers who want to spend less time setting up and packing away.

Ground tents usually take more time to set up. You’ll need to unpack, sort the poles, peg it down and maybe add a rainfly. It can be slow, especially on rough ground. But newer designs like quick frame and pop up tents make it much faster and easier than before.

So if fast pack-downs and moving from site to site are part of your travel rhythm, a roof-mounted shelter offers clear benefits. But if you plan to stay in one place for a while or prefer a hands-on experience, a ground-based tent remains a suitable and familiar choice for many campers.

Comfort & Sleeping Setup

Comfort can shape your whole night in the bush, especially after a long day outdoors. That’s why your choice of shelter should suit how you sleep best and how much effort you want to put into setting it up.

A major benefit of many rooftop tents is the included mattress, which is already in place when the tent opens. This means less packing, no fiddling with airbeds or stretchers, and a bed that feels consistent from one site to the next. You’re also off the ground, away from cold spots and debris, and enclosed in durable materials that enhance your sleeping quarters. This gives you better temperature control to sleep more comfortably.

Ground tents give you more ways to set up your bed. You can use a stretcher, a foam mat or an inflatable mattress if you want extra comfort. It might take more time and gear to get right, but many campers like having the freedom to tailor their setup to the conditions or how they like to sleep.

If you're after simplicity and built-in comfort, a roof-mounted tent can deliver a ready-made solution. But for those packing for a hike, car camping with a crowd, or embracing different camping environments, a ground-based shelter gives you options that scale with your adventure.

Safety & Wildlife Protection

In Australia, staying protected from weather and wildlife is important, especially when camping in remote or rough areas. Rooftop tents keep you above snakes, insects and pooled water, which can make a big difference when the weather turns bad.

Ground tents place you closer to nature. While modern models include sealed floors and insect mesh, they're more exposed to moisture, bugs, and unstable terrain. Smart camp selection and setup can reduce risks, but it takes more planning.

Access is another factor. Climbing a ladder may not suit families or those needing easy exits at night. In contrast, ground tents offer direct entry and exit, making them more suitable for some travellers.

If wildlife and storm protection are priorities, an elevated tent is a strong option. But in safer, well-maintained areas, a ground tent remains a reliable and flexible choice for different camping styles.

Weather Conditions & Protection

Australia’s weather can change fast, from intense heat to heavy rain. In tough conditions, the way your tent is built makes all the difference.

Rooftop tents offer strong weather protection thanks to durable fabric, sealed seams, and elevation. Staying off the ground means avoiding pooling water, mud, and cold terrain, making them ideal for unpredictable outdoor environments.

Ground tents vary in how well they handle rough weather. Stronger models with solid poles and a well-made vestibule can stand up to wind and rain, but they work best on flat, dry ground and need a bit more care when setting up.

If you’re heading into wet, rocky, or exposed locations, a roof-mounted tent is a reliable shield. But for fair weather or sheltered campsites, a well-made ground tent is still a suitable choice for many different camping conditions.

Vehicle Flexibility & Campsite Freedom

The way your tent connects to your vehicle can shape how you move around camp. Rooftop tents stay attached to the roof rack, so once they’re open, your car stays in place. This works well if you want a simple setup, but it can be tricky if you need to duck out for supplies or a quick day trip.

In contrast, a ground tent is fully independent. Regular ground tents are portable and lightweight. Once pitched, you can head out and return without disturbing your camp. This makes it ideal for longer stays, base camps, or when travelling with others who may need the car.

For fast, mobile travel, a roof-mounted shelter is efficient. But if you want flexibility to move your 4WD and leave your gear undisturbed, a ground tent is the more suitable option for different camping styles.

Space, Group Size & Living Comfort

When it comes to room to move, ground tents win on space. Available in styles from compact hike tents to large multi-room shelters, they’re ideal for groups, tall campers, and anyone needing room for gear or standing space.

Rooftop tents are compact and cosy, usually made for two people. Some come with an annex for extra sleeping room or gear, but space inside is limited. You won’t be able to stand or move around much, so they suit couples or solo travellers who prefer a smaller footprint.

If you’re heading out with a big family or want room to spread out, a ground tent gives you more living space. For tighter spots or quick setups, a rooftop tent still works well, especially if you need to pack up and move often.

Cost, Value & Durability

Rooftop tents usually cost more at the start, especially if you need a roof rack. But that price includes strong materials, weather protection and a built-in mattress that saves space and setup time. For regular travellers, they offer great value over time.

Ground tents are far more affordable, with options ranging from basic swags to high-quality multi-room shelters. While cheaper models may not handle harsh weather conditions as well, many premium versions hold up with tough fabric, strong tent poles, and smart design.

If you camp often and want reliable performance, a roof-mounted tent is worth the investment. But for those who want flexibility, lower cost, and a variety of suitable options, a ground-based tent is ideal for different camping needs.

Scenic Views & Lifestyle

One of the best things about a rooftop tent is the view. Sleeping up high gives you wide open sights, whether you’re looking out over the ocean, the bush or a desert sunset. For many campers, it’s what makes the rooftop setup stand out.

Pair it with an annex, chairs, and a compact campsite, and you’ve got a streamlined, more versatile look that suits minimalist travel. It’s also a popular choice among 4WD travellers chasing remote locations and efficient living.

On the flip side, ground tents feel more connected to the environment. From sitting by the fire to hearing the sounds of the bush around you, there’s something simple and grounding about being closer to the earth. Whether it’s a swag under the stars or a roomy shelter for mates, this style suits different camping moods and group sizes.

If you want elevation and quick mobility, a rooftop tent nails the aesthetic and function. But for that classic camping or hiking style living out of a backpack, a ground tent remains a strong, suitable favourite.

Let's compare:

Feature	Rooftop Tent	Ground Tent
Ease of Setup	Fast to deploy, mattress included	Slower unless using instant-up models
Sleeping Comfort	Built-in mattress, elevated	Customisable with stretchers or mats
Weather Protection	Better in harsh weather, off the ground	Depends on quality; ground conditions vary
Wildlife Safety	Elevated, reduced exposure	Closer to insects and animals
Vehicle Flexibility	Car must stay at camp	Can leave tent pitched and drive off
Space & Group Size	Best for 1–2 people	Great for families and larger groups
Cost	Higher upfront + roof rack needed	More affordable, wide range of prices
Terrain Suitability	Works on uneven or rocky ground	Requires flat, peg-friendly ground
Ideal For	Remote travel, quick stops, 4WD touring	Base camps, group trips, flexible camping

Which One Is Right for You?

You’ve seen the main pros and cons, but the right tent really depends on how you like to camp, who you travel with, and what kind of trips you enjoy.

If you’re chasing efficiency, sleep solo or as a couple, and want a quick and easy to set solution for off-road travel, a rooftop tent is a smart choice. Most are built tough, include a mattress, and mount directly to your vehicle for easy access to remote terrain and compact campsites.

If you need extra sleeping space, travel with a big crew, or want to leave your camp set up while you head out, a ground tent is often the better choice. With plenty of sizes, layouts and prices to choose from, including swags, hike tents and family shelters, they offer great flexibility and are easy to move from place to place.

Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

Choose a Rooftop Tent if you:

• Travel regularly in a 4WD or camper
• Prefer fast set-up and minimal gear
• Camp on rocky, sloped, or wet terrain
• Want built-in weather protection and elevation
• Usually camp with one or two people

Choose a Ground Tent if you:

• Need more room for people and gear
• Want to leave your tent up while driving
• Camp with kids or groups in shared sleeping quarters
• Prefer a more affordable, flexible kit
• Plan to hike in or use different types of ground tents

There’s no wrong choice, just the one that suits your next adventure best.

Best Rooftop Tents & Camping Tents in Australia

Once you’ve picked the right shelter for your trip, the next step is finding a trusted brand that can handle Australia’s tough conditions.

At Outback Equipment, we stock only trusted, field-tested gear built for Aussie terrain. Whether you’re after the right rooftop tent for your 4WD or a spacious ground shelter for family adventures, these brands offer dependable performance and excellent value.

Best Rooftop Tent Brands

• Bushwakka Rooftop Tents
  For serious 4WD adventurers, Bushwakka tents are made tough with weather-resistant materials and rapid set-up. Perfect for remote tracks and harsh weather conditions.
• Outback Tourer Rooftop Tents
  Designed for durability and ease of use, Outback Tourer rooftop models suit couples or solo travellers who want a compact, hassle-free shelter that lasts.
• Darche Rooftop Tents
  Darche designs their tents for strength, airflow and comfort. With a range of practical options, they suit all kinds of trips across Australia.
• Campboss Rooftop Tents
  CampBoss tents are made for rugged Aussie travel. They are quick to set up, built to handle tough weather, and perfect for getting off the grid in comfort.

Best Camping & Ground Tents Brands

• Oztent Fast Frame Tents
  A favourite among campers for a reason. These tents offer quick set-up, plenty of internal space, and outstanding weather performance for different camping conditions.
• OzTrail Tents & Swags
  OzTrail swags are built tough and made for solo touring, quick overnight stops, or as a solid backup alongside a rooftop tent.
• Darche Camping Tents & Swags
  From high quality swags to large shelters, Darche focuses on strength, airflow and comfort. A great choice for longer trips and changing conditions.

From remote ridge lines to relaxed campsites, we’ve got everything you need to camp comfortably, safely, and on your terms.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re driving through the outback or setting up by the beach for a weekend away, your choice of shelter can shape the whole trip. The good news is that both rooftop tents and ground tents have their place. It all comes down to how you like to camp.

Rooftop tents suit the modern traveller. They are compact, raised off the ground and built to handle tough conditions. Great for those who want comfort and quick setups on the road.

Ground tents offer more flexibility. With everything from swags to large family tents, they are a solid choice for groups, base camps or anyone after a more open and affordable setup that suits all kinds of terrain.

Still choosing the right tent for your next trip? Outback Equipment stocks a wide variety of rooftop tents, ground tents, and gear to suit all types of Aussie terrain and travellers. Whether you need something for harsh weather conditions, uneven ground, or your next hike, we’ve got you covered.

So pack the sleeping bag, load the cargo, and hit the road. Your next adventure starts with the right gear from Outback Equipment.