Introduction
The Kings Roof Top Tent (also known as Adventure Kings in Australia and New Zealand) has earned a reputation for offering budget-friendly rooftop living. But is it the right fit for you? In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through key insights—covering design, setup ease, real-world durability, and more—so you can make an informed choice.
Overview
Kings tents come in two main styles:
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Soft-shell fold-out (e.g. Tourer). Lightweight, classic canvas look.
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Hard-shell (e.g. Grand Tourer, Kwiky). Sleeker, pop-up roof; sets up in under a minute.
These products are priced significantly lower than premium brands, targeting beginner-level campers and 4×4 enthusiasts who want a rooftop solution that’s quick to deploy.
Affordable Pricing
One of the biggest draws of Kings tents is cost. They’re much cheaper than brands like iKamper or Tepui, thanks to overseas manufacturing and a focus on value over premium materials. This makes them appealing to people wanting a rooftop tent without a premium price tag.
Quick Setup
Kings soft-shell models are known for fast setups, often under 3 minutes. Their hard-shell options, like the Grand Tourer, open in under a minute. A user observed: “set up is super easy” on their Slim Line RTT. For solo travelers or families chasing convenience, this is a major plus.
Comfort & Weather Resistance
The fabric is generally waterproof, and user reviews often mention that these tents keep campers dry even in heavy rain. The mattress is typically comfortable enough, although some users wish it were denser. Combined with solid sealing, these tents are effective at sheltering you from the elements.
Durability: Mixed Reports
This is where Kings tents have the most varied reviews.
On the positive side, many users report no issues after extended use. But a consistent theme emerges in hard-shell models—the tendency to crack at the corners.
One user shared their experience with the Kwiky hard-shell:
“Within a week cracks appeared on one corner of the hard top. … after a few weeks every corner had developed cracks.”
“Kings replaced it… but within half a mile … another crack in the corner …”
Another user observed widespread corner damage just weeks after purchase:
“Large cracks all 4 corners… you can put your little finger through.”
These concerns are echoed in online communities where multiple users have posted about similar experiences.
Warranty and Customer Support
Kings typically honors warranties. Many users received replacements after reporting issues like shell cracking. However, in some regions, heavier logistical challenges—like international shipping—may complicate returns. Overall, their support is there, but the hassle factor varies.
Build Quality & Materials
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Canvas and stitching: Generally decent in soft-shell models; the Slim Line is noted for a solid feel.
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Shell material: Budget-grade plastics prone to cracking under stress or repeated opening/closing.
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Floorboard: Usually built from plywood or aluminum; strong enough for regular use.
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Seals & zippers: Waterproof and functional, though not premium-grade.
Ease of Use Day-to-Day
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Setup/Packing: Quick-release latches and gas struts make opening and closing straightforward.
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Weight: Soft-shell versions weigh less (~60–70 kg), while hard-shell models can be 80–100 kg+, so a suitable roof rack is essential.
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One-person operation: Manual lifting of hard shells may require strength—or help from another person.
Maintenance and Longevity
To extend service life:
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Clean after trips; avoid abrasive detergents.
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Store under shade or use a cover to protect the shell.
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Protect plastic shells by applying wax or polish every few trips to enhance UV resistance.
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Inspect bolts, seams, zippers regularly to catch early wear.
These practices can mitigate cracking and extend usability.
Accessories & Customization
Kings offers accessory kits—like annex rooms, ladders, and awnings. Third-party add-ons are also compatible. Be aware, though, that accessory variety and availability lag behind premium players.
Who Should Buy?
Kings tents are ideal for:
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Occasional campers who value cost savings.
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Beginner rooftop tent users seeking an affordable introduction.
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Solo travelers or couples after fast, easy setup.
Less suitable for:
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Frequent or heavy campers, especially in rugged conditions.
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Those who demand long-term durability—hard-shell models can crack.
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Buyers wanting premium features (e.g. thick insulation, strong shell).
Alternatives Worth Considering
If you fall outside the Kings target user, consider:
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iKamper, 23ZERO, or Tepui — pricier but built for long-term reliability.
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Darche — similar canvas quality to Kings but slightly more expensive.
These brands have stronger warranties, better materials, and often better resale value.
Final Verdict
The Kings Roof Top Tent offers excellent value for occasional or light use, backed by simple operation and solid waterproofing. But hard-shell models inherit risk—corner cracking is a recurring theme.
To buy smart:
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Know your usage (occasional vs frequent).
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Inspect the shell regularly once you receive it.
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Use maintenance tips: shade, wax, check hardware.
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Be aware of warranty steps, particularly if you’re far from service centers.
If you want an affordable and functional roof-top solution—and you’re okay with potential minor repairs—Kings is compelling. But if tough conditions or long-term dependability matter, invest in a premium alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Kings tent waterproof?
Yes—users report good resistance in heavy rain.
Can one person set it up alone?
Yes, most models are solo-operable; however, heavy hard-shells might take two people.
How long does it last?
Soft-shells often last years with care. Hard-shells may crack within months if not maintained properly.
What about warranty coverage?
Kings honors warranty replacements, but behind-the-scenes logistics vary location to location.
Closing thoughts
Choosing a rooftop tent is about lifestyle. If you’re an entry-level camper, budget-aware, and plan light duty use, Kings can give you rooftop comfort without top-tier cost. But for rugged adventures, frequent road trips, or demanding conditions, diving into a more durable brand may save you stress down the road.
