Exploring the Heights: An Interview with Roof Tent Camping Enthusiast Paul Bannister

Introduction

At Stay Outdoors, we’re passionate about bringing you the best in rooftop camping gear. To shed light on the world of rooftop tents, we sat down with Paul Bannister, an experienced roof tent camper, to get his insights. Paul’s journey and expertise provide valuable information for anyone interested in rooftop camping. Here’s what he had to say.

What made you fall in love with roof tent camping?

Paul: "The freedom of travel and access to remote locations really hooked me. My first purchase was many years ago for a trip to Morocco, where I camped in the desert. The experience of being able to set up camp anywhere and the unique perspective it offers compared to traditional camping was transformative."

Paul's love for rooftop camping started with an adventure in Morocco, and since then, he has been captivated by the flexibility and convenience it offers. The ability to explore remote areas and the ease of setting up camp have been key factors in his enduring passion for this style of camping.

Where have you visited with your roof tent? UK or abroad?

Paul: "My first trip was to Morocco, as I mentioned earlier. I also used it in France and Spain on the way. Now on my fifth rooftop tent, my travels have been primarily within the UK since my children came along. Personal circumstances made overland travel difficult with our first two children, and then it became impossible as our family grew. We’re currently discussing future travel plans abroad without the kids. In the meantime, we have a 10-day UK trip planned in July with our boy."

Paul’s rooftop tent has seen diverse locations, from the deserts of Morocco to the scenic routes of France and Spain. These days, with family responsibilities, he primarily camps in the UK, but future international trips are on the horizon.

What do you mount your tent to?

Paul: "Over the years, my rooftop tents have been carried on a variety of 4x4s and occasionally mounted on trailers. Currently, it’s mounted to a steel canopy on a pickup, which is correctly rated for the weight."

Paul’s experience with different mounting setups emphasizes the importance of ensuring your vehicle can safely carry the load of a rooftop tent. His current setup, mounted on a steel canopy on a pickup, showcases the flexibility and adaptability of rooftop tents across different vehicles.

What is the most frequently asked question in your roof tent camping community?

Paul: "The most common question is, 'What’s the best roof tent?' There’s a wide range of options to suit all budgets. Cheaper tents are made from synthetic materials and rely on coatings to prevent water ingress, whereas more expensive tents use natural materials like impregnated poly-cotton, which offer better performance. I often compare it to the difference between leather shoes and wellies – both serve a purpose but perform differently."

The variety of rooftop tents available can be overwhelming. Paul’s analogy comparing tents to shoes – with different materials offering different levels of performance – helps newcomers understand the trade-offs between budget options and premium choices.

What is the most important thing for people to know when they first wish to purchase a roof tent?

Paul: "There are a couple of key considerations: the type of vehicle and whether it can safely carry the load, and how fittings such as roof bars attach. Not all vehicles are suitable. It's also a big investment, so if someone is unsure, I suggest renting one first. Some people don’t enjoy camping, and the same goes for rooftop tents. Storage is another issue if you’re not leaving it on the vehicle full time."

For those new to rooftop camping, Paul highlights the importance of ensuring your vehicle can safely support the tent and considering how it attaches. He also recommends trying a rental first to ensure it’s a good fit before making the investment, and being mindful of storage needs if the tent isn’t left on the vehicle year-round.

Conclusion

Paul Bannister’s insights provide a comprehensive guide for anyone considering a rooftop tent. From choosing the right tent for your vehicle to understanding the different materials and their performance, Paul’s experience is invaluable. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the adventure, his advice will help you make informed decisions and fully enjoy the freedom and excitement that rooftop camping offers.