iKamper Unveils Their Budget Hybrid Roof-Top Tent That Can Welcome a Family of Four

Folks, if you regularly follow autoevolution, then you've surely seen the name iKamper before; I personally have covered their works on several occasions. Well, this time around, iKamper has done it again, crafting a hybrid roof-top tent that's suitable for up to four people. Oh, and just to cut to the chase here, it's starting at no more than $2,600.

Now, I mentioned that iKamper calls this a hybrid tent. The reason is that while it showcases a soft shell while erect, during transport, part of the floor folds over the camper, providing a hard shell-like setup. Pull an integrated cover over the sides, pull it tight—no zippers—and off you go to the next spot on your map.

All this starts off with nothing more than honeycomb aluminum panels for the flooring, the ones and the same that later act as the on-road shell. This means that this unit should be light and durable, and according to the manufacturer's website, we're looking at a unit that weighs no more than 128 lbs (58 kg), so decently light, but anything else you grab as extra is, well, going to add 'extra' weight; it makes sense.

Once the base for this mobile habitat is set, it's time to complete the rest. Like other tents on the market, good old poly-cotton canvas is used to give life to a mini bedroom with 360 degrees of vision, provided by four windows. Furthermore, dual overhead Skyview windows are also there, letting you peer into the night sky as you fall asleep without fear of where you fall asleep; you're home, for now.

As for the level of weatherproofing that the X-Cover 3.0 can provide, would you believe that iKamper considers this puppy a four-season unit? They do, and part of the magic has to do with the canvas that's used to craft the shell: 300gsm stuff with a blackout. Part two of the 3.0's weatherproofing abilities has to do with the rainflies. Here, iKamper uses a polyester 150D ripstop with an eco-friendly water-repellent coating.

But, as we continue to explore this unit, it becomes apparent that there's really more to it than that. Helping tie things off for anyone spending the night inside this camper is the flooring. A 2.75-inch thick mattress with nine zones is in place, but most importantly, it's crafted from insulated polyfoam. That last bit is essential for the whole four-season idea, but I'm the kind of person who's grown to be a tad comfortable, so I won't be using a soft shell on a ski trip. Again, that's just me. There are heating and cooling duct ports built into the shell, so no worries.

Now, with an idea of what awaits you and your guests, let's pretend we just spend the cash on one of these and are now loading it up onto your vehicle and securing it for the trips ahead. Once that's nice and secure, it's onto grabbing food, drinks, clothing, and maybe even some e-bikes, and we're off. Next stop? You tell me; feel free to comment with those places you consider a bit of heaven on earth.

Once you're there, park your vehicle somewhere flat, obviously, loosen the covering of your soon-to-be home, and unfold the floor into place. As you do, the side of your unit pops into view and all you have to do is add six tension poles in place; have a good night; that's really all there is to it.

The question is, how are you going to get inside? No worries; iKamper throws in a ladder with your purchase. Speaking of throwing things in, it's important to note that iKamper has created the 3.0 with expansion in mind. I'm talking about the ability to accommodate the Annex Plus option, turning your four-person tent into a downright compound in no time. This allows you to go above and beyond just that group of four people or even bring along a shower and portable galley setup. Maybe you just need an awning; wink-wink.

Now, roof-top tents aren't for everyone, but the fact of the matter is that they are growing in popularity, and with good reason. The most important one is costs; roof-top tents often cost a fraction of a towable unit or RV. Secondly, the level of mobility you have with a roof-top unit is unparalleled. Why? If your truck needs to rock crawl to reach your destination, the X-Cover 3.0 is right there for the ride. Sure, your truck or 4x4 is going to be a bit more top-heavy, but you'll manage. Just a little something to consider.