Roof-top tents have a great role in our camping experience, offering the allure of off-ground sleeping and the comforts of home.
Two products stand out in this competitive market: Extended Ventura Deluxe 1.4 and the Tent and Trail Explore Series. But which one is the right choice for you? Whether you're an adventurer seeking extreme conditions or a family planning a leisurely camping trip, this comparison is for you so you can make an informed decision.
Tent & Trail Explore Series
The Tent & Trail Explore Series is a 2-3 person soft shell roof tent with a fold out design.
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 Roof Tent
The Ventura Deluxe 1.4 is also a soft-shell roof tent with the fold out design and has been a popular choice for entry level roof tent users due to the price and availability.
1. Materials Comparison
Tent and Trail uses a 420D rip-stop polyester Oxford material, offering a water resistance rating of 2500mm HH and resistance to UV and mould.
Tent & Trail Explore Materials:
+ 420D rip-stop polyester oxford material
+ Water Resistance 2500mm
+ UV Resistance
+ Mould Resistance
Tent & Trail Explore Annex Body:
+ 420D rip-stop polyester oxford material
+ Water Resistance 2500mm
+ UV Resistance
+ Mould Resistance
+ Annex Floor - removable heavy-duty 600 GSM PVC material, waterproof and UV resistant.
Ventura Deluxe employs a robust aluminised rip-stop Poly Cotton Canvas fabric for ultimate weather protection. This material is waterproof, UV-resistant, and anti-tear, ideal for adventurers who face unpredictable weather.
Ventura Deluxe Materials
+ Poly Cotton Canvas PU 3000mm
+ UV protection
+ Anti tear
Annex Body:
+ Poly Cotton Canvas PU 3000mm
+ UV protection
+ Anti tear
Both tents provide durability and weather resistance, but Ventura Deluxe has a slight edge in material quality. However, if mould resistance is important to you, the Tent and Trail series offers this additional protection.
2. Mattress and Thickness comparison
Both tents promise a cosy sleeping experience but offer different mattress options.
Ventura Deluxe Mattress:
Ventura Deluxe provides a 2-inch high-density foam mattress covered in durable fabric.
+ 2-inch high density foam non deforming mattress
+ Heavy-duty zippered cotton cover
Tent and Trail take comfort a step further with a 6cm high-density foam mattress.
Tent & Trail Explore Series Mattress:
+ 6cm high-density foam mattress
+ Fitted washable travel cover
+ 3D mesh moisture-proof anti-condensation layer under the mattress
If thickness and comfort are what you seek, Tent and Trail's Explore Series has the advantage of a thicker mattress. This could be particularly important for those prioritising comfort during outdoor adventures.
3. Sleeping Area Comparison
Ventura Deluxe Sleeping area:+ Ventura Deluxe accommodates up to 3 adults in a 240x140cm space.
+ Storage pockets
+ Large windows
Tent & Trail Explore Sleeping area:
+ Three adult space with a 240x140cm area.
+ Double Skylight for night and day time viewing
+ Large windows
+ Storage pockets
+ LED Light strip with switch
+ Internal air vents & fabric wrapped poles to prevent condensation
Dimension & Weight Comparison:
Main Roof Tent
The Ventura Deluxe 1.4
Open Dimensions: 310x143x126CM
Closed Dimensions: 150x125x30CM
Weight: 45kg
Tent and Trail Explore Series
Open Dimensions: 320 x 140 x 126CM
Closed Dimensions: 140 x120 x 30CM
Weight: 60kg
While both tents are compact when folded, the Tent and Trail Explore Series offers a more compact size useful for those who want a smaller footprint on their roof. This is beneficial if you have a smaller vehicle but still want ample space.
Annex Dimensions
Tent and Trail Explore Series Annex
Dimension: 200 cm x 250 cm x 210cm (WxLxH)
The Ventura Deluxe 1.4 Annex
Dimension: 220 cm x 220 cm x 210cm (WxLxH)
4. Weather Resistance
Tent & Trail Explore Series
+ 2500mm HH Rating
+ UV Resistance
+ Mould resistant
+ Waterproof resistant YKK brand zippers
+ Uprated thick seam tape for better waterproofing
The Ventura Deluxe 1.4
+ 3000mm HH Rating
+ 55mph Wind tested
+ UV Resistance
5. Additional Features
Tent & Trail Explore Series Bonus Features
+ Zip-in Annexe Room
+ 2x shoe bags
+ 1x LED Strips with switch
+ Storage Net under Roof Tent
+ 2x Skylights
+ 2 Year Warranty
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 Bonus Features
+ Telescopic ladder extendable to 2.3m for additional cost
+ 2 Year Warranty
+ Zip-in Annexe Room
Price Comparison:
Starting at £1,199.00, the Tent and Trail Explore Series comes at a higher price point.
But for the extra cost, you get a roof tent ideal for the traveller seeking added comfort and space, including the zip-in annexe room, along with other features like skylight windows and more spacious sleeping areas, which positions this tent as a premium option. If you're looking for those extra amenities and can stretch your budget, this might be the one to consider.
Priced at £925, the Ventura Deluxe 1.4 Roof Top Tent offers a competitive package. This tent seems to be the more economical option for adventurers working with a tighter budget. The Ventura Deluxe also comes with an annex room.
