How Does The Thule Outset TowBar Tent Compare To Roof Tents?
Updated 08/07/2025 | Published 07/14/2025
Question:
How does it compare to a rooftop tent like the Yakima SkyRise or Thule Tepui?
asked by: Brandi
Expert Reply:
Great question, Brandi! We just recently started carrying the Thule Outset Towbar Mounted Tent # TH34FR39XB and it's a really neat new item! We have never carried anything like it before.
Now for your question, the biggest differences come down to comfort, accessibility, and flexibility:
Setup height: The Outset stays at ground level, so no climbing ladders or hauling gear overhead.
Vehicle freedom: Once you set it up, your vehicle is free to drive away. This is a huge perk if you're exploring nearby trails or towns.
Comfort: The mattress is full-size, you’re insulated from the ground, and there’s standing headroom.
On the flip side, rooftop tents are more compact when driving and better for ultra-remote areas or overlanding. But for campground camping, tailgating, or weekend road trips, the Outset offers way more flexibility.
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Can the Thule Outset Hitch Mounted Tent Handle the Highway Speeds on My RAV4?
- Q&A: Can Thule Outset Hold Up To Wind And Rain And Snow Conditions In Colorado?
- Q&A: How to Power a Furrion Camera System w/ a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
- Q&A: Can The Rear Hatch Be Lowered With The CVT Timber Creek Annex RG35ZV Installed?
- Q&A: Why Is The Parkit360 Force Electric Trailer Dolly PA46VR Not Compatible With Some Jayco Trailers?
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Furrion Vision S+ Monitor Not Displaying Camera
- Article: Rooftop Cargo Carriers
- Q&A: Recommended 72" Wide RV Couches w/ a Bed
- Article: How to Troubleshoot Your RV Air Conditioner
- Article: How to Camp in Your Car (And Actually Enjoy It)
- Article: Car Camping Checklist
- Article: Stability Control for Heavy Duty Vehicles
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Performance Chips and Modules
Andrew N.
8/7/2025
Hey Brandi, how did the Thule Outset work out for you compared to the rooftop tents you were considering? I'm curious to know if the flexibility and comfort made a difference for your camping trips. Let me know, as it could really help others deciding between these options!