RoofBunk Hard Shell roof tent closed on vehicle UK countryside
When you spend your life working in the outdoors, you learn one thing quickly: Buy once, cry once. In the world of roof tents, the RoofBunk Hard Shell is the UK’s answer to that “no-nonsense” requirement. It’s a rugged, mid-range powerhouse that handles the unpredictable Scottish elements without the eye-watering price tag of international imports.
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The First Impression: A British Workhorse
Most tents feel like camping gear; the RoofBunk feels like a piece of specialist equipment. The reinforced high-gloss fiberglass shell is rock-solid, significantly reducing wind noise and “shell-flutter” on the motorway. The build quality—specifically the stainless steel latches and heavy-duty internal gas struts—is clearly designed for years of hard use in the damp UK climate.
1. Deployment: The 60-Second Rule
In the UK, the weather doesn’t wait for you to faff with poles. The RoofBunk uses internal gas-strut assisted opening that is genuinely a one-person job, even with cold, wet hands.
- The Reality: From handbrake on to “kettle on” is under 60 seconds.
- Why it matters: If you’re touring the Highlands and changing spots every night, a slow setup kills the adventure. With the RoofBunk, the struts do the heavy lifting while you get the brew on.
2. Insulation & Weatherproofing
The UK coast is the ultimate testing ground. The RoofBunk features a heavy-duty, waterproof poly-cotton canvas (280g) that’s built for four-season use.
- The Wind Test: The aerodynamic fiberglass shell deflects the worst Atlantic gales, staying far quieter than any soft-shell alternative.
- Condensation: The dual-ventilation system works well. Even with the windows zipped during a downpour, the airflow prevents that “damp tent” feeling in the morning.
RoofBunk fiberglass shell waterproofing close up
3. Interior Comfort: Practicality First
The RoofBunk is a dedicated two-adult tent. It doesn’t have the “King-Size” fold-out footprint of an iKamper, but it excels in vertical space and simplicity.
- The Mattress: It comes with a 5cm high-density foam mattress. It’s firm and reliable, though some side-sleepers might want a slim topper for extra luxury.
- Storage: The design allows you to leave your sleeping bags and pillows inside when closed. For a forestry professional or a busy weekend warrior, this is a massive win for keeping the car interior tidy.
Will the RoofBunk fit your vehicle? Before you invest, make sure your roof rack and vehicle GVM can handle the load.
RoofBunk internal gas strut opening mechanism
The Verdict: Pros & Cons
The Pros:
- Price-to-Performance: Exceptional value (£1,450 range) for a genuine hardshell.
- UK-Based Support: No international shipping nightmares for spare parts or advice.
- Durability: Fiberglass shell and stainless hardware that handle salt and grit.
The Cons:
- Footprint: It’s a standard double size; it won’t fit a family of four.
- Weight: At 65kg, it requires a solid roof rack system.
Final Decision
If you want a setup that works as hard as you do without breaking the bank, the RoofBunk Hard Shell is the UK benchmark. It’s simple, it’s durable, and it’s proven in our unique climate.
Mounting the RoofBunk: What You Need to Know
At 65kg, the RoofBunk is lighter than some competitors, but it still requires a smart approach to mounting.
- The Two-Person Lift: You still need two people to clear the height of an SUV or van safely.
- The Universal Brackets: The RoofBunk comes with a straightforward bolt-and-plate system. It fits most standard square or aero bars.
- The 20-Mile Check: Always drive 20 miles, stop, and re-tighten your mounting bolts. Vibrations on gravel tracks can settle the hardware.
Close up of RoofBunk universal mounting brackets and stainless steel bolts on vehicle roof bars