If you are an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping and exploring the great outdoors, a hard shell roof top tent can be a game-changer for your adventures These roof top tents are convenient, easy to set up, and provide a comfortable and secure shelter while you are out in the wilderness However, purchasing a hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive But fear not, with a little bit of time and effort, you can build your own DIY hard shell roof top tent that is just as good as the ones sold in stores In this article, we will guide you through the process of building your own hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
– A hard shell rooftop cargo carrier
– Foam insulation sheets
– Marine grade plywood
– Heavy-duty hinges
– Latches
– Screws and bolts
– Silicone sealant
– Waterproof fabric or canvas
– Mattress
– Ladder
Step 1: Preparation
The first step in building your DIY hard shell roof top tent is to find a suitable hard shell rooftop cargo carrier You can purchase one from your local auto parts store or online Make sure to choose a carrier that is sturdy and durable, as it will serve as the base of your tent.
Step 2: Insulation
Once you have your cargo carrier, the next step is to insulate it to ensure that your tent stays warm and comfortable Cut foam insulation sheets to fit the interior of the cargo carrier and secure them in place using silicone sealant.
Step 3: Base
Next, cut a piece of marine grade plywood to the size of the top of the cargo carrier This will serve as the base of your tent Attach the plywood to the cargo carrier using heavy-duty hinges so that it can be easily lifted up and down.
Step 4: Walls and Roof
To create the walls and roof of your tent, cut more pieces of marine grade plywood to fit the sides and back of the cargo carrier Attach them to the base using screws and bolts Next, cut a piece of plywood to serve as the roof of the tent and attach it to the walls using hinges so that it can be raised and lowered.
Step 5: Latches
Install latches on the walls and roof of the tent so that they can be securely closed when not in use diy hard shell roof top tent. This will ensure that your tent stays closed while you are driving and prevents it from opening unexpectedly.
Step 6: Fabric
To create the walls and roof of your tent, cover the plywood with waterproof fabric or canvas This will provide protection from the elements and give your tent a clean and polished look Secure the fabric in place using silicone sealant and additional screws and bolts.
Step 7: Mattress
To make your roof top tent comfortable, add a mattress inside the cargo carrier You can use a foam mattress or an air mattress, depending on your preference Make sure to choose a mattress that fits snugly inside the cargo carrier and provides enough cushioning for a good night’s sleep.
Step 8: Ladder
Finally, attach a ladder to the side of the cargo carrier so that you can easily access your roof top tent You can purchase a ladder specifically designed for roof top tents or build one yourself using sturdy materials such as aluminum or steel.
With these steps, you can build your own DIY hard shell roof top tent that is both functional and comfortable for your outdoor adventures This project may take some time and effort, but the end result will be well worth it So gather your materials, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors in your custom-made roof top tent.
In conclusion, building a DIY hard shell roof top tent is a rewarding project for outdoor enthusiasts who want to save money and customize their camping experience By following these steps and using the right materials, you can create a roof top tent that is durable, comfortable, and easy to set up So why wait? Start building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent today and get ready for your next outdoor adventure.