Article: Dynamic vs. static roof load: will a rooftop tent fit your car?
Dynamic vs. static roof load: will a rooftop tent fit your car?
“Will a rooftop tent even fit my car?” It's by far the question we get asked most. The answer almost always comes down to one thing: roof load. There are two kinds — dynamic and static. Once you understand the difference, you'll know within five minutes whether a rooftop tent is possible. Here's the simple version, with real-world examples.
What is roof load?
The roof load is the maximum weight your car's roof may carry. You'll find it in the owner's manual (search for “roof load”) and often in your roof rack specs. What many don't realise: manufacturers almost always state the dynamic roof load — and that only tells half the story.
Dynamic roof load: the weight while driving
The dynamic roof load is the maximum weight on the roof while driving. For most cars, 50 to 100 kg. This limit is low because many forces act on the roof while driving: braking, cornering, bumps and gusts. Note:
- The weight of your roof racks counts (5 to 8 kg)
- The limit applies to everything together: racks + tent + luggage
- With a panoramic or glass roof, the load may be lower — check the manual
Example: our LCM Dune (2 people) weighs 60.5 kg. Add roof racks at about 7 kg: ~67.5 kg. Does your car have a dynamic roof load of 75 kg or more (like most SUVs, 4x4s and estates)? You're good. At 50 kg — some smaller hatchbacks — it's tight, and we'd advise against it.
Static roof load: the weight when parked
Good news: as soon as the car is stationary, those forces no longer apply. The static roof load is far higher than the dynamic one. The roof is part of the safety cage and supports a multiple of the dynamic load when parked. A common rule of thumb is around three times, though most manufacturers don't publish an official static figure. If in doubt, ask your dealer — or us.
Why this is the key for rooftop tents: you only sleep in the tent when parked. Sleepers' weight falls under the static roof load.
Example: LCM Dune (60.5 kg) + two people (150 kg) + gear (10 kg) = ~220 kg static. Sounds a lot, but for virtually any car with a 75+ kg dynamic load it's no problem when parked.
Check in 3 steps
- Look up the dynamic roof load in the manual or ask your dealer. 75 kg or more? Then virtually any hardshell tent fits.
- Arrange suitable roof racks. They're not included — choose racks rated for at least the tent's weight and fit them per the instructions. Not sure? We're happy to advise.
- Do the maths: tent weight + rack weight ≤ dynamic roof load. Sleepers don't count.
Weights of our rooftop tents
| Model | Weight | Suitable from roof load |
|---|---|---|
| LCM Dune (2 pers.) | 60.5 kg | 70 kg |
| LCM Oasis (3 pers.) | 66 kg | 75 kg |
| LCM Savannah | 74 kg | 85 kg |
All models have an aluminium hardshell and set up in 60 seconds.
Work it out instantly with our roof load check
Rather not do the maths? Use our free roof load check: enter make, model and year (or via your number plate) and you'll see straight away whether your combination fits — including your car's estimated roof load. → To the roof load check
Frequently asked questions
Can a rooftop tent go on a small car?
Often, yes! It's not about size, but roof load and good racks. Always check the manual first.
Does the weight of people count?
Nobody's in the tent while driving, so no. Sleeping weight falls under the static roof load, which is much higher.
Do you supply roof racks?
No, you arrange racks yourself — they must match your make and model. We're happy to advise which type suits.
Do you help with fitting?
Absolutely! At collection we help fit it and use stronger, better-quality bolts than the ones in the package. Have your racks fitted beforehand — then you drive off ready in half an hour.
What if I exceed the dynamic roof load?
Handling deteriorates, you can damage the roof and your insurer may raise issues. Don't — especially since it's unnecessary with the right combination.
Does a rooftop tent affect fuel consumption?
A little. Our hardshell models are aerodynamic, keeping the extra low.
Not sure about your car? We'll figure it out with you
Send make, model and year and we'll work out which tent fits — including rack advice. At collection we help fit it with stronger bolts. Browse our hardshell rooftop tents and accessories, or drop by: within 50 km we deliver and fit ourselves.
