If you love camping and spending time in the great outdoors, having a roof top tent can greatly enhance your experience A hard shell roof top tent offers the convenience of easy set-up and tear-down, as well as protection from the elements However, purchasing a pre-made hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive Luckily, with a little time, effort, and some DIY skills, you can build your own hard shell roof top tent at a fraction of the cost In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
Materials Needed:
To build your DIY hard shell roof top tent, you will need the following materials:
– Hard shell case (such as a fiberglass or plastic storage bin)
– Marine plywood
– Foam insulation
– Fabric for the tent
– Hinges
– Latches
– Sealant
– Screws
– Drill
– Saw
– Measuring tape
– Paint or sealant
– Mattress
– Bedding
Step 1: Prepare the Hard Shell Case
Start by selecting a hard shell case that will serve as the base of your roof top tent Measure the dimensions of the case and purchase marine plywood that will fit snugly inside Cut the plywood to size and attach it to the inside of the case using screws This will provide a sturdy base for your tent.
Step 2: Insulate the Roof Top Tent
Next, cut foam insulation to fit the dimensions of the plywood base Glue the insulation to the plywood to provide comfort and insulation during your camping trips This will help regulate the temperature inside the tent and provide added comfort while sleeping.
Step 3: Create the Tent
Measure and cut fabric to the size of the plywood base, leaving extra length for the walls of the tent Sew or glue the fabric together to create the walls of the tent, leaving an opening for the entrance diy hard shell roof top tent. Attach the fabric walls to the plywood base using hinges, so that the tent can easily fold up and down.
Step 4: Add Hinges and Latches
Attach hinges along the edge of the hard shell case to allow the tent to fold up when not in use Add latches to secure the tent in the closed position while driving and to keep it upright when in use This will ensure that your DIY hard shell roof top tent is securely attached to your vehicle and safe for sleeping.
Step 5: Waterproof the Tent
To ensure that your roof top tent is waterproof, apply a sealant along the seams and edges of the fabric walls This will prevent water from seeping into the tent during rainy weather and keep you dry and comfortable while camping.
Step 6: Decorate and Customize
Once the basic structure of your DIY hard shell roof top tent is complete, you can customize and decorate it to suit your preferences Paint the exterior of the hard shell case to match your vehicle or add decals and designs to make it unique Add a mattress and bedding inside the tent to create a cozy sleeping space for your outdoor adventures.
Step 7: Test it Out
Before hitting the road with your DIY hard shell roof top tent, make sure to test it out in your backyard or a local campground to ensure that it is secure and comfortable Practice setting it up and taking it down to get the hang of it before embarking on your camping trip.
In conclusion, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent is a rewarding project that can save you money and provide a comfortable camping experience With the right materials and a little bit of creativity, you can create a customized roof top tent that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor adventures So roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and start building your very own DIY hard shell roof top tent today.