Are you looking for the perfect way to camp on your next 4WD adventure? The Drifta roof top tent might be exactly what you need. These tents have become the go-to choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts who want comfort without compromise.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about the Drifta Stockton Wild Land model. You’ll learn what makes it special, how it compares to other options, and why so many overlanders swear by it.
What Makes the Drifta Roof Top Tent Special?
The Drifta Stockton Wild Land tent stands out with its smart design and tough construction. It solves the most common problems that plague other roof top tents.
First, the setup is amazingly quick. You can have it ready in under 60 seconds thanks to its patented hard shell design. This means more time enjoying your campsite and less time struggling with poles and fabric.
The materials used are top-notch. The tent features an aluminum honeycomb plate hard shell that keeps you protected from the elements. This isn’t a flimsy tent that will tear or leak when the weather turns bad.
Weight is another big advantage. The 1.2 model weighs just 56-57 kg, making it one of the lightest hard shell options you can buy. This matters a lot when you’re thinking about your vehicle’s roof load limits.
The low profile design is perfect for keeping your vehicle’s center of gravity lower. This helps with off-road handling and fuel economy compared to taller, bulkier tents that catch more wind.
You also get amazing ventilation. The tent includes oversized windows with insect mesh and a clever gap between the shell and fabric. This reduces condensation and keeps the air flowing, even on hot nights.
Key Features That Campers Love
The Drifta roof top tent comes packed with thoughtful features that make camping more comfortable and convenient.
Let’s talk about the sleeping area. The mattress measures 205 cm long by 120 cm wide with a 70 mm foam thickness. This gives you plenty of room to stretch out and sleep comfortably after a long day of adventures.
The lighting system is impressive. The tent includes USB-powered ultra-bright LED light strips inside. This means you can read or organize your gear without fumbling with flashlights or lanterns.
Mounting options add versatility. The hard shell top works perfectly for adding solar panels, recovery tracks, or other gear you might need. This helps maximize your limited packing space.
Weather protection is excellent. The 210d Rip-Stop Polyoxford PU coated fly and floor keep water out. The tent performs well in extreme conditions including dust, rain, high winds, and even snow.
The slim packed height is another big plus. At just 16 cm thick when closed, this tent has minimal impact on your vehicle’s height. You’ll still fit in most garages and won’t have to worry about low branches.
The tent works with most vehicle setups. It fits on SUVs, 4WDs, vans, and trailers using standard crossbars or cargo racks. You don’t need a special mounting system to make it work.
Size Options for Different Needs
The Drifta roof top tent comes in two main sizes to fit different vehicles and camping needs.
The 1.2 model is perfect for smaller 4WDs, vans, and trailers. It features side entry and a more compact footprint. This size works well for solo travelers or couples who want to keep their setup lightweight.
For larger vehicles or groups, the 1.4 model offers more space. It weighs slightly more at around 64 kg but provides a mattress area of 2.05m x 1.4m. This size comfortably fits 3-4 people, making it great for family adventures.
Both models share the same quality construction and features. Your choice comes down to your vehicle size and how many people need to sleep in the tent.
The weight difference between models is minimal. This means you can choose based on your space needs rather than worrying too much about roof load restrictions.
Most users find the 1.2 model offers plenty of space for two adults. The larger model gives you extra room to spread out or accommodate kids.
Setup and Installation Guide
Getting your Drifta roof top tent ready for use is straightforward, even if you’re new to roof top camping.
First, you’ll need roof racks or crossbars rated for dynamic and static loads. Check your vehicle’s manual for weight limits before installing anything on your roof.
The mounting hardware comes with the tent. You’ll use simple brackets that attach to your existing roof rack system. Most people can complete the installation in under an hour.
Once mounted, the tent stays on your vehicle. Opening it takes less than a minute – simply undo the latches and the gas struts help lift the lid. The tent fabric automatically expands as the shell opens.
The ladder extends to reach the ground and provides stable access. It also adds structural support to the extended section of the tent, making the whole setup more secure.
Setting up bedding is easy too. Many owners leave their sleeping bags or blankets inside when closing the tent. This makes camp setup even faster when you reach your destination.
Packing up is just as quick. Simply fold in the fabric sides, lower the shell, and secure the latches. You’ll be ready to hit the road again in minutes.
Real User Experiences and Reviews
Reviews from actual owners highlight several consistent benefits of the Drifta roof top tent.
Many users praise how the tent solves common problems. It’s lightweight, compact, and relatively affordable while maintaining excellent quality and ease of use. This combination is rare in the roof top tent market.
The premium feel impresses serious campers. The slimline design and robust materials make it suitable for hardcore overlanders who regularly tackle tough terrain and changing weather conditions.
Some users note minor drawbacks. The floor design reduces weight but might have less heat retention in very cold conditions. A few mention the lack of window covers for heavy rain protection.
Quick setup consistently ranks as a top benefit in reviews. Users love being able to arrive at camp and be settled in minutes, especially after a long day of driving on rough tracks.
The ventilation system receives high marks. The combination of large windows and the gap between shell and fabric creates excellent airflow while preventing the condensation that plagues many tents.
Integrated features like LED lighting and USB points make camping more comfortable. These modern touches show attention to detail that experienced campers appreciate.
Comparing to Other Roof Top Tent Options
When shopping for roof top tents, it helps to understand how the Drifta compares to alternatives.
Soft shell tents are typically cheaper but take longer to set up. They also tend to be less durable and offer less protection in extreme weather. The Drifta’s hard shell design addresses these weaknesses.
Other hard shell tents often weigh significantly more. Many competing models range from 70-85 kg, while the Drifta starts at just 56 kg. This difference matters for your vehicle’s handling and fuel economy.
The price point falls in the mid-range for quality roof top tents. While not the cheapest option, it offers excellent value considering the durability and features included.
Setup time beats most competitors. Many other tents require 5-10 minutes to set up, while the Drifta consistently opens in under a minute. This advantage adds up over multiple camping trips.
The slim profile when closed (16 cm) is among the thinnest available. This minimizes wind resistance and height clearance issues that bulkier tents create.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Drifta Roof Top Tent
Once you have your Drifta roof top tent, these tips will help you maximize your camping experience.
Add a good mattress topper for extra comfort. While the included 70mm foam mattress works well, a memory foam topper can make it feel like your bed at home.
Consider adding tent accessories like an annex or awning. These create additional sheltered space around your vehicle for cooking or relaxing.
Use compression sacks for bedding. This helps when packing up and ensures everything fits neatly when the tent is closed.
Install solar panels on the hard shell lid. The flat mounting surface is perfect for adding power generation to your camping setup. This pairs well with the USB lighting system.
Maintain the zippers with silicone spray. This prevents sticking and extends the life of these critical components, especially in dusty or sandy environments.
Check mounting bolts regularly. Vibration from off-road driving can loosen connections over time. A quick tightening check before trips prevents problems.
Consider adding thermal insulation for winter camping. While the tent performs well in most conditions, extra insulation helps in extremely cold weather.
Why Choose a Drifta Roof Top Tent for Your Adventures
The Drifta roof top tent offers serious advantages for campers who value quality and convenience.
You get significantly faster setup times compared to ground tents. This means more time enjoying your destination and less time struggling with tent poles and stakes.
The elevated sleeping position keeps you away from ground moisture, rocks, and critters. You’ll sleep better knowing you’re safely above the ground.
Build quality exceeds most competitors. The collaboration between Drifta and Wild Land, a manufacturer with over 20 years of experience, ensures innovation and quality.
The tent works in nearly any camping environment. From dusty outback tracks to rainy coastal trips, the materials and design handle Australian conditions beautifully.
Storage space in your vehicle remains available. Unlike some camping setups that fill your cargo area, roof top tents keep your interior free for other gear.
The overall camping experience feels more luxurious. The solid platform, quality materials, and thoughtful features create a premium feel that enhances every trip.
Final Thoughts on the Drifta Roof Top Tent
The Drifta Stockton Wild Land roof top tent represents exceptional value for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It combines quick setup, durable construction, and smart features in a lightweight package.
For anyone regularly camping from their vehicle, this tent solves the most common pain points. The hard shell design offers protection and convenience that soft tents can’t match.
The price reflects the quality and features you receive. While not the cheapest option, most owners find the investment worthwhile for the improved camping experience.
Video reviews consistently highlight the tent’s spacious interior, excellent ventilation, and integrated power solutions. These modern touches make it suitable for today’s tech-savvy campers.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or extended overlanding trips, the Drifta roof top tent provides a reliable home away from home. The combination of thoughtful design and quality materials creates a tent you can trust in any conditions.
As camping and outdoor adventure continue growing in popularity, solutions like the Drifta roof top tent show how innovation can make the experience more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
