Sprinter Van Roof Top Tent: A Complete Guide
The Sprinter van, with its rugged chassis and ample interior space, is a popular platform for adventure mobility. A roof top tent (RTT) adds sleeping comfort without sacrificing interior living space, making it ideal for long trips, overland expeditions, and weekend getaways. This guide covers RTT types, mounting options, installation steps, performance considerations, and practical tips to help owners choose and use an RTT on a Sprinter van effectively.
Overview Of Roof Top Tents For Sprinter Vans
Roof top tents sit on a roof rack or a dedicated mounting system, lifting the sleeping area off the ground for easier access and wind protection. For Sprinter vans, RTTs capitalize on the vehicle’s flat roof and load capacity to offer a compact, self-contained sleeping space. Key factors include weight, footprint, compatibility with roof bars, and ease of setup. The right RTT enhances camping comfort while maintaining fuel efficiency and driving dynamics when closed.
Types Of Roof Top Tents For Sprinter Vans
Understanding RTT types helps buyers balance comfort, durability, and cost. The main categories are hard shell and soft shell tents, each with distinct advantages.
- Hard Shell Roof Top Tents: Rigid exteriors protect the sleeping area and gear from weather. They typically deploy with a hinge mechanism, offering quick setup. Inner mattresses range from 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Best for frequent use and rugged environments, but generally heavier and pricier.
- Soft Shell Roof Top Tents: Flexible fabric bodies that save weight and cost. They deploy using a support frame and provide good ventilation. Lighter and cheaper, but may show more wear in harsh conditions and can be noisier in wind.
Mounting And Fitment On Sprinter Vans
Proper mounting is critical for safety and performance. Sprinter vans typically require crossbars or a dedicated RTT rack with a payload rating that exceeds the tent’s weight when fully loaded. Consider these factors:
- Roof loading capacity: Check the Sprinter’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and unused roof load.
- Roof rack compatibility: Ensure bars are rated for the RTT’s dynamic load and that installation points align with the tent’s mounting hardware.
- Center of gravity: Position the tent toward the center of the roof to minimize handling changes at highway speeds.
- Aerodynamics: A lower-profile RTT reduces wind resistance and noise compared to taller configurations.
- Access: Ensure a stable ladder, comfortable entry height, and adequate headroom when the tent is deployed or stowed.
Installation Steps For Sprinter Vans
Professional installation is available, but many RV builders prefer owner installation for customization. A typical process includes:
- Measure roof space to choose a tent size that fits the Sprinter roof without overhang.
- Attach a compatible roof rack or RTT mounting system rated for the tent’s weight.
- Secure mounting brackets using torque specifications from the manufacturer to avoid over‑tightening.
- Install the tent on the rack, align mounting points, and fasten all bolts securely.
- Connect ladder hardware and test deployment and retraction mechanics in a safe area.
- Ensure weather seals around any wiring or wiring harnesses remain intact if auxiliary lighting or electrical components are installed near the roof edge.
Performance And Practicality
RTTs on Sprinter vans influence several practical aspects. Weight distribution affects handling, especially when the van is loaded with gear. A well-chosen RTT preserves interior space for living gear and keeps camping essentials within reach. Height impacts garage storage and fuel efficiency, while installation quality affects noise, wind noise, and ease of use. Pros include quick setup, elevated sleeping comfort, and off‑grid readiness; cons involve weight, cost, potential aerodynamic drag, and roof wear over time.
Maintenance And Care
Regular maintenance extends RTT life and performance. Monitor rubber seals for cracking, lubricate hinges or sliders per manufacturer guidelines, and inspect ladders and mounting hardware for corrosion. Clean the tent fabric to prevent mold and UV damage, and store it compressed but not crushed when not in use. After heavy rain, dry the tent thoroughly to prevent mildew. When transported, ensure the tent is securely fastened to avoid movement or fabric wear.
Costs And Popular Brands
Prices vary by material, size, and features. A typical hard shell RTT for a Sprinter can range from $2,500 to $5,500, while soft shell models often run $1,800 to $4,000. Brands with strong reputations in the U.S. market include Tepui, Darche, Front Runner, James Baroud, and Alu-Cab, among others. When evaluating options, compare weight ratings, mattress thickness, weather protection, warranty terms, and supported dimensions to ensure compatibility with a Sprinter configuration.
Safety Considerations
Safety centers on correct mounting, weight limits, and weather awareness. Always follow the manufacturer’s load rating and torque specifications. When camping in extreme weather, secure gear inside the tent and avoid overloading the roof area with heavy items. Regularly inspect mounting hardware for signs of loosening, and check ladder stability before each use. Practice safe deployment and retraction on level ground to prevent falls or injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do roof top tents fit all Sprinter roof racks? Most RTTs fit standard crossbars, but it is essential to verify weight ratings and mounting patterns for the specific Sprinter model and roof rack.
- Will an RTT affect fuel economy? Yes, adding weight and height can increase wind resistance slightly, impacting mileage; a low-profile option helps minimize this effect.
- Is professional installation recommended? For many owners, professional setup ensures proper weight distribution and secure mounting, though skilled DIYers can install within manufacturer guidelines.