Discover the best Toyota 4Runner tents for your next camping trip! Get the most out of your off-road adventures with these top-rated roof top tents.

Top 15 Toyota 4Runner Tents for 2024: Best Roof Top Tents

Toyota 4Runner Tents Review

The Toyota 4Runner has long been trusted as a dependable off-road buddy. The fifth version of this time-honored off-road vehicle has been produced and refined for years. This SUV from a Japanese company has been refined and improved to the point that it is a serious contender for buyers looking for a tried-and-true option.

One of the best things about owning a Toyota 4Runner is the wide selection of aftermarket components available for it. Plenty of options suited to your tastes may be found practically everywhere. Nonetheless, 4Runner rooftop tent camping is the emphasis of this article.

Get the sturdiest 4Runner roof rack you can locate and make sure it fits your preferred rooftop tent before you do anything else. Having a sturdy rack not only allows you to attach more gear, but it also protects you from any hazards on your overland journey.

Next, based on your needs and wants, choose from among the 14 top 4Runner roof top tents.

Table of Contents

What exactly are Rooftop Tents?

For the past ten years, you might have witnessed them gain popularity in the US year after year, with hundreds of new brands appearing and disappearing. Since they were invented more than 75 years ago, rooftop tents have gained widespread recognition as a quick-to-assemble alternative to ground camping. It functions similarly to a typical tent but is made specifically for the top of your car or truck, making it easier and safer than ever before for you to leave.

This article’s main goal is to guide you in determining whether a rooftop tent is right for you and, if so, which models you should take into consideration. Rooftop tents (RTT), although expensive, have revolutionized camping for many people. Some people choose an RTT because they can have a clean, dry, and level sleeping surface in a matter of minutes, while others appreciate the 3″ high-density foam mattress and other comforts it may provide.

While some campers enjoy the space-saving benefits of putting stuff on their roof as opposed to in their car, others take comfort in the fact that it’s off the ground. The benefits of using an RTT increase as its capabilities develop.

Hard Shell Tent Vs Soft Shell Tent

Let’s quickly examine the differences between a soft shell and a hard shell roof tent using the chart below before revealing our selection of the best 4Runner roof top tents.

CriteriaHard Shell TentSoft Shell Tent
Setup TimeQuick and EasyRequires more time and effort
DurabilityHighly DurableLess Durable
Weather ResistanceExcellentGood, but not as good as Hard Shell Tents
WeightHeavierLighter
Storage SpaceTakes up more space due to its bulkinessTakes up less space due to its collapsibility
ComfortCan be less comfortable due to its rigid structureMore comfortable due to its flexible structure
PriceUsually more expensiveUsually less expensive
Ease of TransportationMore difficult to transport due to its bulkinessEasier to transport due to its collapsibility
InsulationBetter insulation due to its hard exterior shellLess insulation due to its soft exterior shell
NoiseQuieter due to its hard exterior shellNoisier due to its soft exterior shell
VentilationMay have less ventilation due to its rigid structureMore ventilation due to its flexible structure

 

These are general differences between Hard Shell Tents and Soft Shell Tents. However, it’s worth noting that there are many variations within each category, so it’s important to research a specific 4Runner on the market before making a purchase.

How to Choose the Best 4Runner Rooftop Tent

It’s advisable to think about many elements that may impact picking the proper vehicle camping roof top tent for you to prevent wasting money and avoid the headache of making the wrong choices. If you know what to look for in advance, you can choose which option best suits your needs. Here are some things to think about before you go looking at the 4Runner roof tent.

1. Tent Material for the Roof: Hardshell or Softshell

These two varieties of RTT couldn’t be more dissimilar. Yet it’s not possible to claim categorically that one is better than the other. It’s important to think about which roof tent is appropriate for your needs and budget. Hard shell rooftop tents include a sturdy casing with a gas-strut and an easy-to-assemble design. In contrast, soft-shell RTTs often weigh less than their hard-shell counterparts, despite being supported by thick poles and pillars.

2. Quality of Materials and Maintenance

You should, of course, invest in a roof-mounted tent designed just for your Toyota 4Runner. Using materials that are appropriate for the setting in which the RTT will spend most of its time is crucial to its durability. Look for something that is well-made and long-lasting, paying special attention to the RTT’s base, body, fabric composition, and poles (if any). In addition, understanding the proper maintenance process helps extend the life of your off-road equipment. If the maker provides a lengthy guarantee, that’s even better.

3. Brand

We recommend spending your hard-earned cash on 4Runner rooftop tents and other off-road gear only from reputable vendors and manufacturers. Having a firm grasp of the history of the manufacturer behind your overlanding gear is a major confidence booster. Seek out well-known manufacturers who have built a solid reputation through years in the industry, consistent product innovation, and dedicated customer service. It’s crucial to shop for a brand that will put your mind at ease both before and after the buying process.

Toyota 4Runner Tents Review

Toyota 4Runner Tents Review

The best off-road 4Runner model should have a roof tent that can keep up with it. Toyota’s greatest offering in the 4×4 market, the 4Runner TRD Pro, is built to handle rough terrain and off-road excursions. Using the most resistant off-road rooftop tent is a must, since this is the most extreme Toyota 4Runner model available. Be sure the RTT you buy is made from high-quality materials and has a rip-stop design.

In addition, the body of your tent will be thicker and more volumetric if you use a fabric with a higher GSM, making it more robust and suitable for mounting on the 4Runner TRD Pro.

1. iKamper Skycamp 3.0

iKamper Skycamp 3.0

iKamper Skycamp 3.0

Our ratings

4.9/5

iKamper Skycamp 3.0The iKamper Skycamp 3.0, with its innovative design, is quickly becoming the go-to hard shell rooftop tent for 4Runner owners. The SkyCamp 3.0 continues to provide convenience for those who attach it to their off-road vehicle, making it the third generation of this product series. The high-performance aluminum platform supports up to 1.8 tons, making it the ideal foundation for your RTT.

The newly updated and upgraded iKamper Skycamp has a number of improvements and new features. The hard shell casing is optimized for improved aerodynamics when closed, reducing wind noise and drag at high speeds. This rooftop tent is made out of sturdy canvas materials, making it a safe place to stay once it’s all set up.

A 9-zone insulated mattress awaits you, giving you a cozy area to rest and relax. The iKamper SkyCamp 3.0 for 4Runner has a king-sized mattress that is to die for. It has ample room for three fully grown individuals. SkyCamp will unquestionably make a difference for you.

What we like

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2. Eezi-Awn Blade Hard Shell Rooftop Tent

Eezi-Awn Blade Hardshell Roof Top Tent

Eezi-Awn Blade

Our ratings

5/5

Eezi-Awn Blade Hardshell Roof Top TentThe severe off-road capabilities of your TRD Pro may be complemented by this off-road camping gear. Eezi Awn Blade isn’t just a hard shell tent; it’s been field-tested for years in the South African countryside, where the weather and terrain have been just as harsh. The Eezi-Awn Blade may be used for a variety of purposes, and it has sturdy rip-stop walls with mesh panels for further protection.

The Eezi-Awn Blade will ensure that you have a peaceful night’s sleep every time. Two adults will have plenty of room on an 80-mm-thick mattress that is supported by a lightweight aluminum frame. Many inside compartments are also thoughtfully created to help you keep your belongings in order and stave off the need for additional storage.

Mounting an Eezi Awn Blade Hardshell RTT, with its additional 12V socket, to a 4Runner TRD Pro is a great way to complement the truck’s off-road capabilities. In addition to these incredible upgrades, Eezi Awn Blade also excels at the fundamentals of rooftop tent design. The Eezi-Awn Blade’s finest qualities are its ease of assembly and disassembly, its roomy mattress that can accommodate two adults, and its low profile design, which improves aerodynamics.

What we like

What we don't like

3. Guana Equipment Wanaka 55"

 Share 347 Guana Equipment Wanaka 55" Roof Top Tent Setup With XL Annex

Guana Equipment Wanaka 55"

Our ratings

4.5/5

Share 347 Guana Equipment Wanaka 55" Roof Top Tent Setup With XL AnnexWhy not acquire a vehicle camping tent that can sleep four fully grown adults when you can fit seven people in your roomy Toyota 4Runner 5th Generation? While traveling overland, you and your crew won’t have any trouble fitting inside the Guana Equipment Wanaka 55″ RTT because of its spacious annex.

The Guana Equipment Wanaka 55″ guarantees you a comfortable night under the stars. Your rooftop tent’s ventilation is ensured by a series of carefully positioned windows. A mesh-paneled entry window and a mesh-paneled sky view window should let in plenty of fresh air from outside.

It’s possible that the Guana Equipment Wanaka 55″ is the roomiest 4Runner tent on this list. The annex that comes with the deal can be used if you need even more room. Our 4Runner Wanaka roof tent has a waterproof exterior, a mattress treated to resist moisture, and a panoramic field of view.

What we like

What we don't like

4. iKamper X-Cover 2.0 

iKamper X-Cover 2.0 Roof Top Tent

iKamper X-Cover 2.0 

Our ratings

5/5

iKamper X-Cover 2.0 Roof Top TentUsers of the iKamper X-Cover 2.0 4Runner tent get the most basic kind of outdoor automobile camping. Don’t underestimate the comfort this 4Runner tent can offer, even if it only weighs about 150 lbs. The quick-open 4Runner roof tent’s novel characteristic of combining a hard shell tent with a soft shell design reduces setup time to a few minutes at most.

A pair of crossbars that are built into the upper shell of the iKamper X-Cover 2.0 while not in use. With this function, you may make use of extra storage space in case you need to equip additional off-road gear for overlanding. Its additional rack system is appropriate for off-road vehicles with little inside space.

Three people can comfortably sleep in this four-season iKamper X-Cover Rooftop tent thanks to its 2.75-inch thick mattress and 9-zone technology, which was made popular by the company. Also, it is the perfect size to mount to a mid-sized vehicle, such as the Toyota 4Runner.

What we like

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5. Thule Autana Ruggedized 3-Person

Thule Autana Ruggedized 3-Person 4Runner Tent

Thule Autana Ruggedized 3-Person

Our ratings

4.6/5

Thule Autana Ruggedized 3-Person 4Runner TentThe Thule Autana Ruggedized roof tent, based on its reputation alone, may be the best roof top tent for the 4Runner. The Ruggedized product range offers even the toughest Toyota 4Runner 3rd Generation a run for its money when it comes to off-road comfort. The Thule Ruggedized variant is a tough and dependable vehicle tent, ideal for camping trips lasting several days. This three-person tent is made from expedition-grade, high-quality materials that can elevate even the most basic vehicle camping trip.

With a diamond-shaped base plate to support your thick mattress, an anti-condensation mat to prevent the growth of mildew, and a 600D polyester ripstop fabric with twin stitched taped seams, this tent has all the heavy-duty features you could want. With these remarkable additions, you may have a safe and relaxing day in the great outdoors.

An annex that has withstood testing in adverse conditions will be provided upon purchase. As an added “luxury” when camping, this supplementary accessory set provides extra space for storing food or may be used as a private changing room.

What we like

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6. GoFSR High Country 80" Premium Roof Top Tent

GoFSR High Country 80" Premium Roof Top Tent

6. GoFSR High Country 80" Premium

Our ratings

4.5/5

One of the best places to get an RTT that will fit on your Toyota 4Runner is at Free Spirit Recreation. Compared to other RTTs, the GoFSR High Country 80″ is the roomiest, making it an ideal rooftop tent for families. The quick and simple assembly process leaves more time for proper bonding rather than spending hours putting together the structure. The setup and breakdown times for the GoFSR High Country 80″ Premium RTT are respectively one and one minute.

Free Spirit Recreation’s High Country 80″ Premium Rooftop Tent is one of the largest RTTs on the market, but that doesn’t mean it skimps on quality or convenience. With a high-density, 2-inch foam mattress and a sturdy extruded aluminum alloy foundation, this tent is designed to withstand the elements in all four seasons. When it comes to recreational vehicle camping, this RTT is among the best options.

Nighttime camping with a 360-degree vista will leave you spellbound. The tent has large panel windows on all sides to improve ventilation. If you want to look at the stars, you may do so through a skylight window.

What we like

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7. BadAss Convoy 4Runner Roof Tent

BadAss Convoy 4Runner Roof Tent

BadAss Convoy 4Runner Roof Tent

Our ratings

5/5

BadAss Convoy 4Runner Roof TentThe BadAss Convoy 4Runner RTT, the slimmest hardshell roof top tent you can install on your Toyota 4Runner, weighs only 122 lbs., and features low-mount crossbars for a stealthy design. It won’t be as difficult as it may appear to get this rooftop tent over your car because the tents are fully put together when they are purchased. All you need to do to be ready for your outdoor vacation is attach the compact Convoy 4Runner rooftop tent to the crossbars.

The robust shell of the BadAss Convoy 4Runner Rooftop Tent is yet another fantastic feature. Its outside casing is constructed from tough, high-gloss coextruded plastic components and is supported by a 500-pound-capable extruded metal foundation structure in the future. This two-person, four-season RTT is an excellent option if you want to travel light.

Naturally, BadAss won’t let you down with the construction of this tent. The Convoy tent has three entrances and four large zippered windows on its 420D nylon Oxford waterproof shell. Mesh panels connected to the tent’s entrance and side panels offer extra protection from flying insects while you’re camping.

What we like

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8. ROAM Vagabond XL Rooftop Tent

ROAM Vagabond XL Rooftop Tent

8. ROAM Vagabond XL Rooftop Tent

Our ratings

4.5/5

The young Roam Adventure Company keeps innovating. Their iconic rooftop tent, the Vagabond, is 56” (2 people) or 72” (4 people).

The entry-level Lite tent costs $1699 and doesn’t extend over the ladder, has a smaller footprint, and weighs 120 pounds.

Roam has some of the sickest colors in the game, but the Vagabond rooftop tent is more than just aesthetic. Roam is the only RTT with a porch window for 360-degree stargazing and a double sunroof with skylights via the rainfly.

The ROAM Vagabond has one of the most comfortable softshell mattresses and a durable polycotton ripstop fabric with a diamond-weave nylon rainfly. The zipped cover, waterproof bottom, and condensation mat increase cushioning and reduce dampness under the mattress.

Roam includes a gear locker and a diamond-plated insulated floor for outside storage. They also sell tents without the annex.

Finally, Roam’s outside cover includes a unique buckling mechanism. ROAM’s hues, quality, FREE upgrades, and FREE delivery make it one of 2023’s hottest soft shells!

What we like

What we don't like

9. Thule Tepui Foothill

Thule Foothill 2-Person Roof Top Tent Agave Green

Thule Tepui Foothill

Our ratings

4.5/5

One of the first players in the US is Tepui. They have been in business for longer than ten years than CVT, so it’s not surprising that they have learned what it takes to thrive in a competitive industry. The one aspect of Tepui that has decreased since being bought by the Swedish Global Goliath Thule is their customer service. My only criticism of the senior player would be that larger companies can lack a personal touch.

The brand-new Foothill, on the other hand, represents one of the most significant advancements in soft shell games since they began to be imported into the US more than ten years ago. The Foothill is made to take up half as much room on your roof as a conventional softshell while still sleeping two people in comfort. This makes it possible to finally use the tent while towing a kayak or bike rack beside it.

This little tent is one of the simplest to take down because it only weighs 108 pounds and is 24 inches wide. This will probably be among the most popular and best-selling lightweight RTTs in 2022.

What we like

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10. ROAM Rambler Hardshell Rooftop Tent

ROAM Rambler Hardshell Rooftop Tent

ROAM Rambler Hardshell Rooftop

Our ratings

4.8/5

ROAM Rambler Hardshell Rooftop TentFinally, Roam has made a sneak peek of their future hard shell release available. The good news is that it doesn’t behave like any other hardshell we’ve seen previously, in a classic Roam manner. Roam’s latest hardshell, the Rambler, borrows design cues from its tough casings.

Similar to previous tents, the shell of this one is reinforced with fiberglass and ABS. On the interior as well as the outside, it differs from the others. The Roam is robust, much like the cases, with a rough texture and ribbed roof design, so forget about that slick finish with silly designs claiming greater aerodynamics.

There are more amenities inside the tent than just two entrances and two arched windows. The Rambler has two enormous panoramic windows that allow you to enjoy 360-degree views. The tent is the ideal width for 2 people and your 4Runner tents without appearing overly big, measuring 84″x50″x11″.

The tent is slated for release in March 2022, and even though we haven’t really seen it, we’re eager! We’ll be trying to get our hands on this to examine the latches and see how the opening and shutting functions. These two elements frequently make or ruin hardshell designs. The simplicity of use is ultimately why people pay hardshell pricing; if it’s difficult, we won’t buy it. Still, I’m enthusiastic about this one and can’t wait to share more soon!

What we like

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11. Freespirit Recreation Odyssey

Freespirit Recreation Odyssey

Freespirit Recreation Odyssey

Our ratings

5/5

The Freespirit Recreation Odyssey 4Runner roof tent offers unsurpassed comfort and elegance. The “Rolls Royce” of hard shell 4Runner tents, it has a sleek, low-profile design and a superb overall sleeping experience

The Freespirit Odyssey has an aluminum honeycomb plate and a special three-layer fabric that will keep you cool and dry no matter the weather. You may use it as an air conditioner in the summer and a heater in the winter.

You may attach crossbars to the ceiling of your Odyssey 4Runner tent to provide room for extra stuff like kayaks, storage bins, solar panels, and so on. You may confidently install up to 250 pound pieces of gear.

The Freespirit Odyssey can accommodate up to three people, although it also works well for two. All options come with an HDF mattress and an EPE floor measuring 1.5 inches in thickness. While comfortable, we feel that, for the asking price, a thicker mattress would have been more appropriate.

There are built-in bug screens on all of the windows. Even if it’s pouring, this allows more air inside the tent and keeps mosquitoes out at night. The tent comes with a USB Type-A-powered light strip so you can see in the dark.

The Odyssey 4Runner roof tent has a one-of-a-kind aluminum frame with gas struts that facilitate hands-free assembly and disassembly. All you have to do is release the latches and give them a gentle push. It unfolds in between 15 and 30 seconds.

What we like

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12. OVS TMBK 3

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS TMBK 3 PERSON ROOF TOP TENT

OVS TMBK 3

Our ratings

4.7/5

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS TMBK 3 PERSON ROOF TOP TENTThe Overland Vehicle Systems TMBK 3 is our go-to 4Runner tent for budget-conscious clients. It is weatherproof and has various features not usually seen at this price.

The TMBK 4Runner rooftop tent has a marine-grade 600D rip-stop polyester body and a 420D polyester oxford rainfly. Even in heavy rain, these fabrics are waterproof and long-lasting.

On colder evenings, the TMBK’s base is built of durable insulated metal made of lightweight anodized aluminum. The lightweight anodized aluminum body structure keeps the tent sturdy in windy circumstances.

The TMBK 4Runner tents are roomy and comfortable despite its small size. Two adults and one child fit comfortably. While cramped, three adults can fit.

High-density foam makes the 2.5″ TMBK mattress. Its detachable, machine-washable cover makes cleaning easy. It’s a decent bed. A sleeping pad may help you sleep better.

TMBK roof top tents for 4Runners take 1-2 hours to build. Following installation, opening and shutting takes 5–10 minutes.

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13. OVS Nomadic 4

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS NOMADIC 4 EXTENDED ROOF TOP TENT

OVS Nomadic 4

Our ratings

5/5

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS NOMADIC 4 EXTENDED ROOF TOP TENTThe Nomadic 4 Toyota 4Runner roof top tent has a luxury body structure and a spacious sleeping space. It is roomy and cheap, making it popular with families that traverse the nation together.

600D poly-cotton ripstop and 420D polyester oxford rainfly make the Nomadic 4Runner roof tent body safe and comfortable in all weather. Waterproof fabric prevents leaks in heavy rain.

The Nomadic 4 weighs 183 pounds and has a robust anodized aluminum frame. The tent’s diamond plate bottom insulates against nighttime cold.

The Nomadic 4Runner tents sleeping capacity is four. Fitting five people into one room is uncomfortable. Nomadic 4 has an alternative room if you need additional space. The add-on room may sleep one.

Nomadic 4 comes with a 3″ high-density foam mattress and a black quilted cover. It sleeps great. The tent’s mesh screens keep pests out.

Nomadic 4 is easy to set up and take down, despite its size. Setup and breakdown take less than 5–10 minutes, which is easy yet slow. Putting it on your 4Runner will require assistance.

What we like

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14. OVS Bushveld

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS BUSHVELD HARD SHELL ROOF TOP TENT

OVS Bushveld

Our ratings

5/5

OVERLAND VEHICLE SYSTEMS BUSHVELD HARD SHELL ROOF TOP TENTOne of the most cheap and capacious 4Runner hard shell roof top tents is Overland Vehicle Systems’ Bushveld. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble.

The Bushveld 4Runner roof tent’s body consists of a waterproof 420-oxford ripstop rain fly cover and double 600D ripstop material with a PU 2500 UV rating. The top shell’s robust, single-piece polymer cover effortlessly sheds snow and water.

Bushveld’s foundation has black metal diamond plate insulation for winter warmth. All locks and fittings are marine-grade 304 stainless steel for overland durability.

Two- and four-person Bushveld 4Runner tents are available. Both variants include a 3″ quilted memory foam mattress. A mattress anti-condensation pad prevents moisture accumulation.

If you need extra sleeping space, a pet room, or a change room, construct an annex. The PVC-floored extension sleeps one and features watertight side walls.

The gas strut OVS Bushveld 4Runner tent can be put up and taken down in 30 seconds. This tent is easy to install on your 4Runner and takes around one hour.

What we like

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4Runner Tents FAQs

Q. Can a 4Runner have a rooftop tent installed?

No matter the year, manufacture, or generation, your Toyota 4Runner can hold a rooftop tent without any trouble. Yet, before anything else, you must construct a sturdy roof rack.

Q. What is the maximum weight that a Toyota 4Runner can support?

The maximum weight of the vehicle camping equipment your Toyota 4Runner can support varies based on a number of variables and cannot be determined in absolute terms. To discover if your preferred RTT is acceptable for attaching to your car, you must assess certain factors. Verify your curbside weight and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). Curbside weight is the overall load capacity of your vehicle before any passengers or accessories are added, whereas GVWR is the maximum weight that your off-road vehicle is permitted to tow. From that point on, you’ll know if your 4Runner can support the weight of your preferred rooftop tent.

Q. Are there rooftop tents for 4Runners that have an annex?

Not all 4-Runner roof tents come with an annex when you buy one. Often, annexes are offered separately and allow you to expand your camping area or add a private room. Nevertheless, certain 4-Runner tents, such as the Thule Autana Ruggedized 3 and the Guana Equipment Wanaka 55, come with annexes already attached.

Q. How simple is it to place a tent on the roof of a 4Runner?

It might be challenging to attach a rooftop tent to your Toyota 4Runner. Keep in mind that RTTs may weigh a lot due to their sturdy construction. It can be difficult to place it, and more labor can be required. But, mounting and securing your 4-Runner rooftop tent will require a few bolts and nuts once it has been attached to the roof rack.

4Runner Tents Final Thoughts

One of the best vehicles for off-roading, overlanding, or trying out new trails is a Toyota 4Runner. These are very high-quality cars, and every single one of them is great. No matter if you have a 3rd Gen, 4th Gen, or 5th Gen 4Runner, all of them are more than capable of carrying a roof top tent.

We listed models from different brands, with different styles, sizes, and materials. All of them are good for different kinds of people and situations. We wanted to talk about different kinds of roof rack tents that will work well with your 4Runner and your different needs, no matter where you live.

Depending on what you like and what you need for overlanding, there is a Toyota 4Runner Rooftop Tent that will work for you. But if you still don’t know what to do, you can always contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

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Daniel Wisdom
Daniel Wisdom

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