As I read through reviews and asked around about truck tents, I wanted to know how long they took to set up.
Some people love the process of getting their camps exactly right, but I just want to get it done.
So for me (and maybe you), the timeline of setting up the tent may be an important element.
So we have to ask: How long does it take to set up a truck tent?
A truck tent takes around 15 minutes to set up, depending on the exact type. Truck bed tents take a little longer, while hard-sell rooftop models take only a few minutes altogether. Keep in mind: the first few times you set it up, always take the longest.
Let’s dig into the different types of truck tents and how long they take.
Truck Bed Tent Setup Time
Truck bed tents take longer to set up than the other types.
It doesn’t attach to any rails or racks, so you start from the ground up every time.
On average, it takes 15-20 minutes to set up.
First, you have to clear out the truck bed to even set up the tent.
Then, you have to set up the tent, which takes a while.
And at the end, you have to strap and attach the tent to the truck.
This is why I recommend you find the best truck bed tents by checking out our picks.
The better options are quick to put up and tear down.
Hardshell Rooftop Tent Setup Time
Hardshell rooftop tents are the easiest to set up once you’re there.
They only take a minute to pop up and down.
The downside is setting it up in the first place.
Rooftop tents attach to the rails or racks on top of your pickup truck.
I’ve helped some friends of mine hook up their hard shell tent, and it’s heavy.
The whole process isn’t super fun, but once it’s up, you don’t have to mess with it all season.
Just pack your gear, pop the tent up, and enjoy your trip.
With any truck tent, driving with it up isn’t allowed.
The tent sides will catch the wind like a parasail and then flap around, breaking, and damaging the truck.
Hardshell rooftop tents are the easiest to deal with during this inconvenience because of how quick they are to set up and down.
Learn more about driving with a truck tent and tips for making the process easier.
Soft Shell Rooftop Tent Setup Time
Softshell rooftop tents take a bit longer than hard ones. Expect it to take around 10 minutes for this type.
Basically, all you need to do is set the tent up. It’s already attached to the truck, so it saves time there.
Of the rooftop tent’s though, this is less popular.
Sure, it’s easy to set up and lighter, but it’s not as secure, and some people don’t like being suspended up that high.
Note: If you have a bed cover, make sure you can use your truck tent with a tonneau cover by reading our guide at the link.
