How to mount your roof top tent: roof racks, roof platforms, or directly on a canopy (incl. quick-release mounts)

Mounting a roof top tent is usually easier than people think. But since it’s living on your roof — in wind, rain, road salt, and gravel — it’s worth doing it properly from day one. Below is a simple, real-world overview of the three most common setups: roof racks (crossbars), a full roof platform, or directly on a canopy/hardtop — plus the practical difference between standard mounts and quick-release mounts.

Before you start: a quick reality check

• Roof load (while driving): Check your vehicle’s max roof load. Add up tent + rack/platform + mounts.

• Compatibility: Not every mount fits every rack. Make sure your tent rails and rack/platform system match.

• Placement: You want the tent centered and not interfering with antennas, sunroofs, tailgates, or rear hatches.

• Lifting: RTTs are heavy and awkward. Use 2–3 people (or a lifting aid).

• Re-tightening: Plan to re-tighten after the first trip. Totally normal.

Option 1: Mounting on roof racks (crossbars)

This is the classic setup and works on a lot of vehicles.

What it looks like in real life

1. Install the roof racks and set a good spacing between crossbars.

2. Lift the tent up and place it on the bars.

3. Slide it into position — straight, centered, and evenly supported.

4. Secure with standard mounts (clamps/plates) around the crossbars via the tent rails.

5. Re-tighten after your first 50–100 km or your first weekend on rough roads.

Why people like crossbars

• Usually the most budget-friendly and straightforward.

• Easier if you want to move the tent between vehicles.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Crossbars too close together (less support).

• Mounts that don’t fit the crossbar shape (aero/oval/square).

Option 2: Mounting on a roof platform (full platform)

If you want a solid “base” that feels properly overland, a platform is often the answer. It’s stable, supportive, and makes it easy to add an awning, lights, recovery boards, and more.

How it works (overview)

1. Install the platform according to the manufacturer.

2. Place the tent where you want it and check clearance to antennas and opening panels.

3. Mount using the platform channels (T-slots) or through-bolts, depending on the system.

4. Check the feel: straight, stable, no movement.

Benefits

• Very stable and easy to position perfectly.

• Ideal if you’re building a full roof setup.

Things to keep in mind

• Platforms weigh more than crossbars — include that in your roof load.

• Depending on the model, it can add height.

Option 3: Mounting on a canopy/hardtop (or similar)

Common on pickups with a canopy/hardtop — and it can be a clean, super practical setup. But this is the one you don’t want to “guess” on.

Important first

Not all canopies are designed to carry a roof top tent. Check:

• The manufacturer’s load rating for the canopy.

• That the load is transferred into reinforced mounting points, not just thin fiberglass/plastic.

Common setups

• Racks on the canopy: install a rack system on the canopy and mount the tent on crossbars.

• Systems that reduce canopy load: some setups mount to the pickup bed/sides and carry the load there.

Benefits

• Can result in a lower overall height (depending on the setup).

• Perfect for pickup builds.

Things to keep in mind

• Poor mounting can cause cracks or deformation.

• Double-check warranty terms and recommended mounting points.

Standard mounts vs quick-release mounts — what’s the deal?

Standard mounts (classic clamps / U-bolts / plates)

How it feels: You bolt everything down properly. It takes a bit longer — but once it’s on, it’s on.

• Pros: Often included, strong, proven.

• Cons: Slower to remove/install. Can be tight to reach under the tent base.

Quick-release mounts

How it feels: You can remove and reinstall the tent much faster. Perfect if you want a “daily driver” during the week and an “adventure rig” on weekends.

• Pros: Fast, convenient, easier seasonal storage.

• Cons: Extra cost, and you need compatibility with your rack/platform and tent rails.

Small tips that make a big difference

• Tape your position before lifting the tent up. Saves time (and frustration).

• Protect your paint where tools and metal parts might touch.

• Plan accessories early: awning, shower tent, lights — placement is easier from the start.

• Re-tighten regularly, especially after the first trip and after rough roads.

Which one should you choose?

• Roof racks: simple, flexible, often the best value.

• Roof platform: maximum stability and best for a full roof build.

• Canopy/hardtop: great for pickups and custom builds — but requires extra attention to load ratings and mounting points.

Want us to sanity-check your setup?

Send your vehicle model + which roof top tent you have (or are looking at) + what rack/platform/canopy you’re running, and we’ll help you choose the right mounts for Nordic conditions.

Built for Adventure.