A rooftop tent adds 25-35 cm to your vehicle’s height – so the question “is this even legal on the highway?” comes up fast. Good news: in most places it’s perfectly legal. The catch is total height and a few tunnel or bridge rules. Here’s the plain-English version every inflatable rooftop tent owner should know.
Is a Rooftop Tent Legal?
Yes. A rooftop tent is a load like any roof box. There’s no special ban in the US, UK, EU, Australia, or most of Asia. What matters is the total height of car plus tent and that it’s secured.
The Real Limit: Total Height
Most underpasses and parking garages clear 2.0-2.1 m. A typical SUV (~1.8 m) plus a closed tent (~0.28 m) lands near 2.1 m – tight but usually fine. Measure yours and keep a note on the sun visor.
Securing It Properly
Laws around “unsecured loads” apply. Tighten the clamps, lock the travel cover, and check after the first 50 km. An inflatable tent’s low profile helps here.
Quick Country Notes
- US:No federal ban; states follow general load laws.
- EU/UK:Fine if under local height limits and secured.
- Australia:Legal; watch national-park fire-ban rules, not the tent.
- Always confirm local signage – rules shift by region.
FAQ
Is it legal to drive with a rooftop tent?
Yes in most countries, as long as total height is within local limits and the tent is securely fastened.
How tall is my car with a rooftop tent?
Measure roof to ground, add closed tent height (~25-30 cm). Most SUV setups sit near 2.1 m.
Will it fit in a parking garage?
Often yes if the garage clears 2.1 m; many clear only 1.9-2.0 m, so check the sign first.
Do I need to declare it to my insurer?
Usually not, but tell your insurer if asked about modifications; a permanent rack might count.
Can I use toll roads and ferries?
Yes, but watch posted height limits at tunnels, low bridges, and ferry ramps.
Explore the Range
- [Inflatable Rooftop Tents – low-profile when closed](https://www.playdooutdoor.com/product-category/rooftop-tent/)
- [Roof Rack & Mounting Guide](https://www.playdooutdoor.com/product-category/rooftop-tent/)
- [All Rooftop Tent guides](https://www.playdooutdoor.com/)
