Has anyone thought about using a roof top tent? I've seen these: http://www.loftyshelters.com and they look really nice, but it seems like a lot of weight to have on the top of your vehicle. I mean, with two adults we're probably talking 300 to 350 lbs in addition to the weight of the tent. Would the roof stand up to this? Anyone have any experience with this kind of system?

I'd have to check the manual but I would guess the rack capacity is 100 to 200 lbs. Ratings are always conservative.

However, I have to ask why this is a good idea? If I'm camping, the last thing I want to do is climb a ladder to get in my tent.

An SUV tent may be a safer choice. These tents sit on the ground behind the vehicle. They have a sleeve that ties around the open SUV back end. THis gives you access to the inside and gives you room on the tent floor.

2008 FWD Escape Hybrid

I dunno. I've always liked tree houses? It seems that being off the ground seems like a good idea. warmer, convenient setup/takedown, and they look comfortable.

I've also considered those...

Humm... choices....

A) The bear mauls me. (Tailgate tent)

B) The bear mauls me, and scratches my new hybrid. (Rooftop tent)

Best single LD trip: 35.3mpg

With apologies to "Jurrasic Park II".... "mmmmmm... biting height."

Leave the food outside the tent, and the bear wil leave you alone!

2008 FWD Escape Hybrid

I tied the food in a bag and hung it in a tree. Unfortunately the tree was above the tent, and the bear trampled the tent to get to the bag. Next time a tree further away...

That's better!

Make sure to put a hatch in the bottom of the tent; that way when the bear comes a knocking you can just jump through the sunroof and drive away....with the bear...and a tent...on yer roof....er explain that one to the cop.

Seriously though, as long as your not jumping up and down up there and just laying down, i.e., not getting too freaky, you should be fine.

I would think that weight recommendation is accounting for when the vehicle is moving and the load is possibly bouncing around, exerting more force in the process, as well as causing you to be top heavy on corners, etc.

Check out http://www.hannibalusa.com/ I really like their awning systems that mount off roof racks. I gotta copy that design for my jeep some day.

06 FEH AWD Premium w/ Moonroof & NAV. Doggie gate, huskey liner.
99 Jeep XJ Classic 6"/31s

Hmmm... those look very cool as well. thanks for the link!