Hard-shell vs Soft-shell Rooftop Tents: What’s Right for Your 4WD?

When you’re gearing up for remote touring or weekend bush escapes, a rooftop tent can turn your 4WD into a go-anywhere home. But if you’ve started shopping around, you’ve likely run into the big question: hard-shell or soft-shell?

Both have their perks (and their drawbacks), and the better choice often comes down to how, where, and how often you travel. It might sound like a simple tent decision—but it’s really about how you camp. Once you know what kind of traveller you are, the right option tends to reveal itself pretty quickly.

Let’s break down the key differences to help you make the call.

Hard-shell Rooftop Tents

Hard-shell rooftop tents are built with solid outer casings—usually made from aluminium or fibreglass-reinforced plastic—which makes them extremely durable and weatherproof. They’re typically designed to pop up with gas struts or scissor lifts, so you can go from closed to camp-ready in under a minute.

Benefits of Hard-shell Rooftop Tents	Disadvantages of Hard-shell Rooftop Tents
Quick setup and pack down – Ideal for quick overnight stops or solo travellers.Aerodynamic design – Low-profile casings reduce drag and wind noise on the highway.Better weather protection – Rigid shell holds strong in high winds and heavy rain.Storage-friendly – Some models allow you to store bedding inside when closed.	More weight on the roof – Usually heavier and can raise your vehicle’s centre of gravity.Limited sleeping space – Most suit 1–2 adults, with fewer options for families.

At unity4wd, we stock quality options like the  Hard Shell Roof Top Tent with its rapid 30-second setup and all-weather awning, the Rooftop tent for extra interior space and waterproofing, and the Slimline Thickness Tent for a low-profile, rack-free fit.

Soft-shell Rooftop Tents

Soft-shell tents fold out like a traditional tent, with canvas walls and a PVC travel cover. They often come with annexes or awnings and can sleep more people—making them a go-to choice for families or those needing a bit more room to stretch out.

Benefits of Soft-shell Rooftop Tents	Disadvantages of Soft-shell Rooftop Tents
Larger internal space – Perfect for couples or families needing extra room.Lower price point – Generally more affordable and widely available.Modular flexibility – Many include annexes, ladders, and optional add-ons.	Longer setup time – Takes a bit more effort to unfold, secure, and pack down.Less durable in bad weather – Wind and heavy rain can wear down canvas quicker over time.

We carry options like with a spacious star-gazing roof, upgraded 70mm mattress, and LED lighting, plus the Soft Rooftop Tent Annex for extra enclosed living space on longer stays.

What Type of Camper Are You?

Still not sure? Here’s a quick guide based on your style of travel:

Traveller Type	Why It Fits	Best Tent Option
Weekend warrior	You’re squeezing trips into short weekends–easy setup and pack-down is a must.	Hard-shell for speed + ease
Extended tourer	You’re on the road for weeks at a time and need extra living space and comfort.	Soft-shell for space + comfort
Solo adventurer	You’re travelling light, stopping often, and want a setup you can manage solo.	Hard-shell for quick solo stops
Family road tripper	You’ve got kids or passengers and need more floor space and accessories.	Soft-shell for room and add-ons
Off-grid minimalist	You chase remote, unpredictable terrain and need gear that handles anything.	Hard-shell for all-weather reliability

Fit Your Tent to Your Trip

There’s no universal winner here—just the right rooftop tent for the way you travel. If convenience, speed, and weather protection are high on your list, a hard shell’s likely the way to go. But if you want extra space and a more budget-friendly entry into touring, soft-shells still offer great value.

At unity4wd, your go-to 4wd Parts Store, we stock a curated range of hard-shell and soft-shell rooftop tents to suit every setup—along with ladder kits, mounting gear, and accessories to finish the job right. Browse our selection online and get your rig camp-ready in time for your next escape.