Product Review
Which Thule Rooftop Tent Is Right For Me?
Rooftop tents have changed the way a lot of people think about camping. Instead of spending an evening wrestling with poles and sleeping on uneven ground, you can pull into camp, set up your shelter in minutes, and spend more time enjoying where you are. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend of paddling, exploring backroads, or building a comfortable basecamp for longer adventures, a rooftop tent can be a great way to make getting outside easier.
In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between Thule's Approach, Tepui Foothill, Widesky, and Outset so you can figure out which one makes the most sense for your next adventure.
Navigate To:
Thule Approach: Space & Comfort
The Thule Approach is a great choice for campers who want a spacious, comfortable rooftop tent that feels closer to a traditional camping setup. With room for up to four people, it's designed for families, couples who appreciate extra space, or anyone who wants a little more comfort after a long day outside.
The larger sleeping area gives you room to spread out, organize gear, and relax at camp. The elevated design also helps keep you away from wet ground, uneven campsites, and cooler overnight conditions, making it a comfortable option for a wide range of adventures.
The tradeoff is that the Approach requires more roof space and weight capacity than smaller rooftop tents. If your vehicle can already carry bikes, cargo boxes, or other roof-mounted gear, you'll want to plan your setup carefully to make sure everything works together.
Plus, for campers who like creating a more complete basecamp, accessories like the Thule Approach Annex add valuable sheltered space below the tent. It's a useful addition for changing clothes, storing gear, escaping bugs, or creating a comfortable area to hang out when the weather turns.
If your priority is comfort and space, the Thule Approach is one of the most versatile options in the lineup.
Thule Tepui Foothill: Compact & Versatile
The Thule Tepui Foothill is designed for adventurers who want the convenience of a rooftop tent without giving up valuable roof space. Its compact design makes it a great option for smaller vehicles or anyone who needs room for other adventure equipment.
This is especially appealing for travellers or paddlers who want to carry additional gear while still enjoying the comfort of a rooftop tent. The Foothill provides a comfortable sleeping area for two people while keeping your vehicle setup more flexible.
The smaller footprint does mean less interior room compared to larger tents like the Approach. It's best suited for solo travellers and couples who prioritize mobility and versatility over having a large living space.
The Tepui Foothill can also be customized with accessories that improve organization and comfort, such as storage solutions and lighting options. These additions help make the compact design even more practical for longer trips.
For anyone who wants rooftop tent comfort while still carrying other outdoor gear, like bikes, boats or roofboxes, the Tepui Foothill is a strong all-around choice.
Shop rooftop Tent accessories
View all
Thule Widesky: Premium Comfort
The Widesky is built for campers who want a premium rooftop tent experience with fast setup, durable construction, and a comfortable interior. Its hard-shell design makes it especially appealing for travellers who move camps often or want a simple setup after a long day outdoors.
One of the biggest advantages of the Widesky is convenience. The gas-assisted struts and ability to store the bedding inside the tent during travel allow for an extremely quick setup. Which means less time spent preparing camp and more time enjoying your surroundings. Inside, the comfortable sleeping area, ventilation, sofa configuration option, and panoramic views create a more refined and comfortable camping experience.
The premium construction does come with a higher price point, but for campers who spend a lot of nights outside, the added comfort and convenience may be worth it. The Widesky is best suited for solo adventurers and couples rather than larger groups.
Once again, the Thule Widesky has several additional accessories focused on storage and comfort to help tailor to your travel style. If you want a rooftop tent that feels like a comfortable outdoor basecamp, this is a standout option.
Still not convinced? Don't worry, we've got a whole other blog that does a deep dive into the Widesky's features, pros, cons and more.
Check it out here »
Thule Outset: Roof-Free Camping
The Thule Outset takes a different approach by mounting to your vehicle's hitch instead of the roof. This makes it a great option for adventurers who need their roof space available for bikes, cargo, and all their other equipment.
The biggest advantage of this design is adaptability. While the Tepui Foothill did allow for some flexibility by sharing your rooftop space, the Outset lets you add a comfortable camping setup without changing how you use the rest of your vehicle.
The lower mounting height also makes the Outset easier to access compared to many traditional rooftop tents. This can be a great benefit for families, pets, or anyone who prefers a simpler entry and exit. Plus, it can be detached from the hitch, which allows you to pop out to grab breakfast without needing to collapse your whole set-up
The main consideration is vehicle compatibility and general location. You'll need a suitable hitch setup, and the added weight at the rear of your vehicle is something to factor into your travel plans. The Outset also rests (slightly elevated) on the ground, meaning you might have to be a bit more considerate when picking your campsite for the night.
For anyone who wants rooftop tent comfort while keeping their roof open, the Thule Outset a unique and practical option.
Which Thule Rooftop Tent Is Right For You?
Choosing the right rooftop tent comes down to matching your camping style with the features that matter most.
If you're camping with family, spending multiple nights in one location, or simply want the most room to relax, the Thule Approach is likely the best fit.
If you're an adventure traveller who needs your vehicle to carry multiple types of equipment, the Thule Tepui Foothill offers an excellent balance of comfort and flexibility.
If fast setup and premium comfort are your priorities, the Thule Widesky delivers a refined camping experience that's ideal for couples and solo travellers.
If your roof is already packed with bikes, cargo, or other gear, the Thule Outset gives you a way to add comfortable camping without sacrificing your existing setup.
At the end of the day, the best rooftop tent is the one that helps you spend more time outside. Whether you're exploring backroads, discovering new places, or finding a quiet weekend campsite, the right setup should make getting there easier and more enjoyable.
Shop more Rooftop Tents
View all
Blog posts
View all
