Rooftop Tent vs. Ground Tent: What’s Best for Your Montana Adventure?

When you’re planning a camping trip in Montana, one big question comes up—should you sleep in a rooftop tent or a ground tent? At Hatch Adventures, we’ve seen both options used all across the state. Each has its pros and cons, and depending on your trip style, one might be a better fit for you.

Let’s break it down in simple terms to help you decide. And of course, we’ll show you how our Go Fast Campers and iKamper rooftop tents can make your adventure more comfortable, fun, and stress-free.

Setup and Convenience

Rooftop tents are much quicker and easier to set up. Our Go Fast Campers and iKamper tents can be opened in less than a minute. There’s no need to mess with poles, stakes, or finding the perfect flat spot. Just pop it open, climb up, and you’re ready to sleep.

Ground tents take longer to set up. You’ll need to find level ground, lay out the tent, assemble the poles, and secure it with stakes. If the ground is rocky or muddy, this process can take even longer. For travelers who want to move around and make the most of each day, a rooftop tent can save you time and hassle.

Comfort and Weather

Montana weather can change fast. It might be sunny one minute and raining the next. Rooftop tents are raised off the ground, which helps keep you dry during heavy rain or early morning dew. They also stay warmer and are better at keeping bugs out.

Ground tents sit right on the dirt or grass. That means you might wake up in a puddle if it rains, or feel cold air coming through the ground. You’ll also need a thick sleeping pad to stay comfortable. Rooftop tents already have a built-in mattress, so you don’t have to bring one.

Space and Group Size

If you’re camping with a group or your whole family, a ground tent might give you more space. They come in different sizes, and you can bring a larger one if needed. Rooftop tents are usually best for two people, though some models can fit up to four.

At Hatch Adventures, our Camper’s Package includes rooftop tents made for two people. If you have more people, you can add a ground tent or use the truck bed for extra sleeping space. Some of our vehicles, like the Suburban, come with an inflatable mattress that fits in the back.

Movement and Flexibility

One thing to think about is whether you want to leave your tent set up while you drive somewhere else. Ground tents stay on the ground, so you can leave them up and take your vehicle for a quick trip to town or a nearby trail.

Rooftop tents are attached to your vehicle. That means if you want to go somewhere, you have to pack up the tent first. For some people, this is no big deal—especially if they’re driving from place to place each day. But if you plan to camp in one spot for a few days, a ground tent might be more flexible.

Price and Gear

Ground tents are usually cheaper and lighter. They’re a good option if you’re on a tight budget or just getting started with camping. Rooftop tents cost more, but they offer extra comfort and are great if you plan to camp often.

With Hatch Adventures, you don’t need to buy your own rooftop tent—we include them in our Camper’s Package. For $49 a day, you get the rooftop tent, camp kitchen, cooler, chairs, lantern, and even bug spray and bear spray. It’s a full setup ready to go.

Why Our Rooftop Tents Are Better

We offer two types of rooftop tents: Go Fast Camper and iKamper Skycamp models. Both are easy to use and built for Montana’s changing weather.

The Go Fast Camper is lightweight and opens quickly. It’s a great match for vehicles like our Ford Broncos or Tacomas. It sleeps two and keeps you above the mud and bugs.

The iKamper Skycamp Mini and DLX Mini are more advanced. They have soft, built-in mattresses, great insulation, and even LED lights inside. The DLX Mini also comes with blackout fabric and extra windows, so you can see the stars or block the sun.

So, What Should You Choose?

If you want comfort, quick setup, and to stay dry and warm, rooftop tents are the way to go. They’re perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants to explore more in less time. If you’re traveling with a group or staying in one place for a while, a ground tent might make more sense.

Some people even use both—a rooftop tent for the main sleeping area and a ground tent for the kids or extra space.

Book Your Adventure Today

At Hatch Adventures, we make camping easy. Book our Camper’s Package, and it gives you everything you need—including one of our rooftop tents, cooking gear, chairs, and more. You’ll be ready to explore Yellowstone, Gallatin National Forest, or wherever the road takes you.

Ready to camp in comfort and style? Book your rooftop tent rental today and start your Montana adventure the right way.