TentBox vs iKamper review

Rooftop Tent Review

The camping industry has continued to grow in leaps and bounds.

Whether you are a camper living the nomadic lifestyle or one interested in exploring nature every once in a while, we can all agree that having a comfortable tent is essential when it comes to camping. 

Rooftop tent camping has slowly become the favourite way of camping for most people, and iKamper and TentBox are two brands synonymous with this lifestyle that create some of best rooftop tents around.

Both are excellent brands and companies, making it difficult for most people to decide which brand to go for when investing in a rooftop tent. 

In this article we will get into:

1. An introduction to the TentBox Brand
2. An introduction to iKamper Brand
3. TentBox Classic vs. iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini
4. TentBox Lite vs. iKamper X-Cover 2.0 mini
5. TentBox Cargo vs. iKamper Blue Dot Voyager Duo
6. Our conclusion

The TentBox brand 

TentBox is a British-based company founded in 2014 by two brothers with a shared love for the outdoors.

Their first rooftop tent design was later named the TentBox classic, which has grown to become one of the most popular and best rooftop tents today. 

From the success of the first tent, the company went ahead to create the TentBox lite, followed by the Cargo.

TentBox also offers a line of camping accessories, including an insulating pod, awning, and a solar panel.

The TentBox brand also strives to protect the environment and is committed to planting a tree for every TentBox sold. 

The iKamper Brand

The mission of the iKamper brand is to help campers get out easily, quickly, and comfortably.

The first iKamper rooftop tent was designed by the company’s founder, Soon Park, an avid camper on a mission to find a better way to camp.

Soon Park set out on a rooftop tent campaign that raised more than $2.3 million on Kickstarter, which helped to start the process of creating their first-ever SkyCamp.

Today, the iKamper rooftop tents are known for its innovative look and design which started off with the SkyCamp hardshell tents but now also consist of some of the best softshell rooftop tents.

TentBox vs iKamper rooftop tent Comparison

TentBox and iKamper offer unique products to cater to different camping needs.

We're going to get into three product comparisons with the TentBox rooftop tents and iKamper's similar models.

TentBox classic vs iKamper Skycamp 2.0 mini 

Both hard shell tents are ideal for campers looking for 2-person capacity roof top tents. 

TentBox Classic

The TentBox Classic was the first ever rooftop tent to be created by TentBox and has undergone numerous improvements over the years. 

Some of its standout features include:

1. A 1-minute gas-assisted opening

2. Space for storing bedding and a ladder

3. Fixing kit to help with the installation

4. Comfortable foam mattress

5. 4-season rated rooftop tent

6. 100% waterproof canvas with an impermeable ABS shell

iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini

The iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini is an upgraded version of the original SkyCamp with a smaller footprint. This compact rooftop tent fits different car models, including compact cars. 

Some of the standout features include:

1. Fits just about any car

2. A 4-season rated rooftop tent gives you great weather resistance year round

3. 100% waterproof - Every rainfly is made of fully waterproof ripstop polyester to keep you dry.

4. Easy setup in 60 seconds

5. Made from breathable, water-resistant poly-cotton canvas

6. Sky view window

Which one is the best rooftop tent? 

Both companies offer great 2-person roof top tents.

1. Weight

The iKamper SkyCamp mini is more lightweight compared to the TentBox Classic, making it more suitable for smaller cars. 

For reference:

• The iKamper SkyCamp mini weighs 57kg

• The TentBox Classic weighs 65kg

2. Setup time

Both the TentBox Classic and the iKamper skycamp 2.0 mini have a 60 second setup time.

Both utilise their unique gas assisted struts to assist you in your set up.

However, the time to pack away the iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini will take longer as you will need to fold the tent back in which takes slightly more time than when you set it up.

So the TentBox Classic just about wins in overall setup time.

3. Comfort

TentBox Classic

• Dimension: 125 x 210cm, a UK standard double bed

• Mattress: 6cm High-Density Foam Mattress (additional memory foam topper available)

• Leave your bedding inside: One of the great conveniences of the TentBox Classic is that you can leave the mattress and thin bedding inside which allows you to pack up quick!

iKamper skycamp 2.0 mini

• Dimension: 135 x 210cm, a UK standard double bed

• Mattress: 4cm high density polyfoam with a 6.4 R-Value

• Sky-view: If you count this in with comfort or luxury... The iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini does come with a stargazing window for extra light.

3. Weather resistance

TentBox Classic

• 4-season weather rated: Built for the British weather; the canvas is 100% waterproof, and the ABS shell is impermeable. All seams are silicone sealed, with waterproof zips on the windows.

  The TentBox Classic is rated to last in winds of up to 39mph (which is a pretty heavy storm).

• Waterproofing: Breathable 280gsm rip-stop canvas walls, with a PU 2000mm Hydrostatc Head Rating. Waterproof silicone-taped seams throughout, and waterproof zips on the end windows.

• Insulation: Aerodynamic and insulated top and bottom shell, made from vehicle-grade ABS, with a UV protective agent.

iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini

• 4- season weather rated: Constructed with breathable, high-density poly-cotton canvas, waterproof zippers and rainfly, convertible windows, and insulating mattresses to reduce condensation.

• Waterproof: polyester 150D (PU 3000mm) rainfly, detachable for better visibility and air flow.

• Insulated: durable & insulating honeycomb aluminum panels, double-layered FRP with 1" air insulation.

As both hardshell tents come with 4 season rated weather resistance; they are both excellent choices with great levels of waterproofing.

5. Price

The iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 mini is more expensive than the TentBox Classic with the TentBox providing almost the same features. 

For reference:

• The iKamper SkyCamp mini costs £3,250

• The TentBox Classic costs £2,250

Conclusion

If price is a big factor then we'd suggest the TentBox Classic as it is £1,000 cheaper and does provide almost the same features.

However, if you want the extra space and slight upgrade in weather resistance then you may opt for the iKamper.

TentBox Lite vs. iKamper X-Cover 2.0 Mini

These soft shell options are for campers looking for rooftop tents that offer a little more space.

TentBox Lite Rooftop tent

The TentBox Lite is a great all-rounder tent that can hold up to 3 people while remaining compact enough to be mounted on just about any size car.

This is the largest capacity rooftop tent from TentBox.  

Some of its key features include:

1. A 5-minute Fold-out opening system

2. High-quality aluminium components frame 

3. Skylight window to watch the stars

4. Includes a ladder, 140cm x 240cm mattress & fixing kit

5. Fine anti-fly mesh

6. Waterproof and breathable canvas fabric 

iKamper X-Cover 2.0 mini rooftop tent

The iKamper X-Cover 2.0 mini is the most compact size rooftop tent by iKamper, that also happens to be the lightest hybrid option.

Its lightweight, compact design makes it perfect for any vehicle size. While it can only comfortably sleep two people, it offers more.

With the X-Cover 2.0 mini, you can take your valued hiking, biking, or watersport gear along your trip thanks to the integrated crossbars fixed around the tent.  

Some of its features including:

1. Easy setup and set down

2. Integrated crossbars

3. Compact size fit for any vehicle

4. Thick Poly-cotton canvas to block out light for people who sleep past sunrise

5. Dynamic window that can serve different purposes

Which is the best softshell rooftop tent?

The TentBox Lite and the X-Cover 2.0 mini are both ideal options for people looking for compact soft shell roof tents with more space.

1. Weight

The TentBox Lite is more lightweight compared to the X-Cover 2.0 mini.

For reference:

• The TentBox Lite weighs 50kg

• The X-Cover 2.0 mini weighs 54kg

2. Setup time

The TentBox Lite can be assembled in 5 minutes and under depending on practice. Let's say as a compromise if you practice enough you can assemble the TentBox Lite in 3 - 4 minutes.

The iKamper X-Cover 2.0 mini can be assembled faster in 3 minutes or under.

3. Comfort

TentBox Lite

• Dimension: 138cm x 240 cm, for reference a UK standard double bed is 135cm x 190cm

• Mattress: 6cm High-Density Foam Mattress

• Sky View & fairy lights: Okay fairy lights aren't a big comfort factor but would you rather have fairy lights or not? We thought so...

X-Cover 2.0 mini

• Dimension: 128cm x 228cm, for reference a UK standard double bed is 135cm x 190cm

• Mattress: 9-zone, 7cm thick, insulated polyfoam

• Sky-view: If you count this in with comfort or luxury... The iKamper X-Cover 2.0 mini does come with a stargazing window for extra light.

Overall, if you prefer the large sleeping space then we advise going with the TentBox Lite.

4. Weather resistance

TentBox Lite

• 4-season weather rated: The canvas fabric is Waterproof, yet breathable, and the additional fly hood keeps you dry in even the heaviest of storms.

  The TentBox Lite has been tested in extreme winds of up to 39mph (that’s a pretty big storm!).

• Waterproofing:

  • Main hood: Breathable 280gsm rip-stop canvas, with a 2000mm Hydrostatc Head Rating

  • Outer hood: 600D Nylon with 4000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating. Waterproof silicone-taped seams throughout

X-cover 2.0 mini

• 4- season weather rated: Constructed with breathable, high-density poly-cotton canvas, waterproof zippers and rainfly, convertible windows, and insulating mattresses to reduce condensation.

• Waterproof: Waterproof polyester 75D ripstop rainfly w/ eco-friendly water-repellent (DWR) coating

As both soft shell tents come with 4 season rated weather resistance; they are both excellent choices with great levels of waterproofing.

5. Price

The X-Cover 2.0 mini is more expensive than the TentBox Lite with the TentBox providing almost the same features. 

For reference:

• The X-Cover 2.0 mini costs £3,100

• The TentBox Lite costs £1,250

Conclusion

If you are looking for sleeping space we would recommend the TentBox Lite since it has a little extra space for two adults.

The X-Cover 2.0 Mini strictly only has enough space for two adults, it does however, comes packed with other standout features.

The integrated crossbars provides rooftop storage allowing you to bring your favourite equipment with you.

This making the X-Cover 2.0 Mini a practical choice for people who prefer to take more external storage when going camping. 

The TentBox Lite is a compact option for campers looking for a tent that can accommodate a small family or more than 2 people. 

However, it may not be ideal if you prefer to bring your bike, surfing board, skis or kayaks since it does not come fitted with crossbars. 

In terms of price, the TentBox Lite is much more affordable and is the best budget rooftop tent in this list. 

TentBox Cargo vs iKamper BDV (Blue Dot Voyager) Duo

TentBox Cargo

The TentBox Cargo is the most expensive model by TentBox.

It is constructed from premium-grade aluminium with camping accessory rails to carry extra camping and adventure gear such as bikes, surfboards, kayaks, and much more. 

Some of the key features include:

1. 2-person capacity

2. Half a minute gas-assisted opening

3. Aluminium accessory rails for Cargo Roof Bars to carry extra camping items on top (purchased as an additional extra)

4. Storage space for bedding

5. In-built air vents for excellent ventilation and condensation control

6. Fitted foam mattress 

7. Premium buckle system for easy opening and closing

8. Fly netting 

9. 100% waterproof and breathable high-quality canvas 

iKamper Blue Dot Voyager

The iKamper BDV (Blue Dot Voyager) Duo is iKamper’s first ever DIY rooftop tent.

With this tent, campers can take their camping experience into their own hands by choosing to assemble it themselves.

We only recommend this if you are familiar with rooftop tents as it's not an incredibly easy installation, there is a ready to use option too.  

The simple ladder and wedge function allows you to setup the ladder on any side of your car, while also giving you the ability to move your car without packing up camp. 

It comes in a hardcore exterior enforced with accessory rails, giving you more room to mount extra camping equipment, including traction boards, and axes. 

It offers more room on the roof for more gear, including solar panels and storage boxes. 

Some of its key features include:

1. Poly-cotton canvas that blocks out light

2. Instant deployment 

3. Accessory rails for maximum equipment mounting 

4. Year round weather proof

5. Expansive windows

6. High density polyfoam mattress

7. Integrated cross bars to mount additional equipment

8. UV and scratch resistant FRP shell with canvas sides

Which hard shell tent is best? 

 1. Weight

The TentBox Cargo weighs more compared to the Blue Dot Voyager Duo.

For reference:

• The TentBox Cargo weighs 74kg

• The BDV weighs 68kg

 2. Setup time

Both the TentBox Cargo and the iKamper Blue Dot Voyager Duo have a 30 second setup time.

Both utilise their unique gas assisted struts to assist you in your set up.

3. Comfort

TentBox Cargo

• Dimension: 125 x 210 cm, for reference a UK standard double bed is 135cm x 190cm

• Mattress: 6cm High-Density Foam Mattress (additional memory foam topper available)

• Leave your bedding inside: One of the great conveniences of the TentBox Cargo is that you can leave the mattress and thin bedding inside which allows you to pack up quick!

BDV Duo

• Dimension: 135cm x 213cm, for reference a UK standard double bed is 135cm x 190cm

• Mattress: 9-zone, 7cm thick, insulated polyfoam

Overall, if you prefer the large sleeping space then we advise going with the BDV Duo.

4. Weather resistance

TentBox Cargo

• 4-season weather rated: The TentBox Cargo can stand even the strongest storms.

  It’s rated to withstand winds of up to 39mph (a heavy storm), and the high quality canvas is both breathable and 100% waterproof.

• Waterproofing: Breathable 280gsm rip-stop canvas walls, with a 2000mm Hydrostatic Head Rating. Waterproof silicone-taped seams throughout, and waterproof zips on the end windows.

BDV Duo

• 4- season weather rated: Like every iKamper tent, the BDV has undergone comprehensive testing to withstand real-world conditions, in all weather you may encounter.

• Waterproof: Waterproof polyester 75D ripstop rainfly w/ eco-friendly water-repellent (DWR) coating

As both soft shell tents come with 4 season rated weather resistance; they are both excellent choices with great levels of waterproofing.

5. Price

The Blue Dot Voyager Duo is more expensive than the TentBox Cargo with the TentBox providing almost the same features. 

For reference:

• The BDV Duo costs £3,100

• The TentBox Cargo costs £2,750

Both options offer almost similar features and sleeping capacity. What is unique about both models is that most rooftop tents do not provide carrying capacity on top of the roof top tent.

The TentBox Cargo comes with a deeper base for extra storage and inbuilt air vents. The vents allow for better ventilation and condensation, which can be beneficial in a tent. 

Cost Comparison 

How much a rooftop tent costs is an important aspect to consider when buying. How much is a TentBox, and how much is an iKamper? 

How much is a TentBox?

The TentBox rooftop tents range between £1,250 and £2,750, depending on your chosen model. 

The TentBox lite is the most affordable at £1,250, while the TentBox Classic and Cargo retail at £2,250 and £2,750, respectively. 

How much is an iKamper? 

iKamper rooftop tents cost between £2,899 and £4,199, depending on the model. 

From the website, the Blue Dot Voyager (BDV) solo is the most affordable, retailing at £2,899, while the Blue Dot Voyager Duo goes for £3,299. 

The iKamper signature Skycamp model range retails between £3,299 and £4,199, while the X-Cover retails between £3,199 and £3,499. 

iKamper is certainly in the higher price range category, although the brand offers more options.

Warranty comparison

With the TentBox you can get up to 5-years extended warranty on all rooftop tents. Cover applies for the first two years, while the next three are available at an extra cost. 

The TentBox warranty covers field repair and factory return, replacement, and repair, all organized by the UK-based service team. 

On the other hand, the iKamper brand only offers a 2-year warranty covering replacement parts.

After two years, the customer is required to meet the production and shipping costs for parts. 

While both companies offer only a 2-year-long warranty cover, TentBox offers much more for the two-year warranty than iKamper. 

The bottom line 

Ultimately, the type of rooftop tent you go for will depend on your preference in terms of budget, size, and features.

With this comprehensive review of leading rooftop tents from TentBox and iKamper, you will have an easier time deciding which one is the best for your needs.