When camping in rooftop tents, keeping cool and comfortable is essential. This guide reviews the best rooftop tent air conditioners designed to provide reliable cooling and heating solutions for RVs, campers, and outdoor tents. Each product offers unique features tailored to various needs like portability, power, and installation type. Below is a summary table of the top units recommended for rooftop tent use, combining efficient cooling capacity, compact design, and user-friendly controls.
| Product Name | Cooling Capacity | Portability | Heating Capability | Control Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RV Air Conditioner 12V 10000 BTU by Outequip | 10,000 BTU | Battery Powered | Yes, 4,500 BTU Heater | Manual |
| CYBERTAKE Portable 5100 BTU 4-in-1 AC Unit | 5,100 BTU | Portable, 25.57 lbs | 1800W Auxiliary Heater | Quiet Operation |
| Aspligo DC 12V Rooftop Air Conditioner 7000 BTU | 7,000 BTU | Rooftop Installation | Yes, Heating Function | Remote Control |
| TOSOT GO Cool RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU | 15,000 BTU | Rooftop, WiFi Enabled | 12,000 BTU Heat Pump | WiFi and Remote Control |
| Coplax Portable Air Conditioner 5100 BTU | 5,100 BTU | Portable, Compact | No Heating | Remote Control, Timer |
RV Air Conditioner 12V 10000 BTU by Outequip
This 12V rooftop air conditioner offers 10,000 BTU cooling power to chill your RV or rooftop tent in around 15 minutes, ensuring quick temperature relief. It includes a supplemental 4,500 BTU PTC heater for mild warming, ideal during cool seasons but not suitable as the primary heating source for large or extremely cold areas. The unit features durable construction using UV-stabilized ABS materials and zinc-coated condenser components, making it highly weather-resistant and fit for tough outdoor conditions.
CYBERTAKE Portable Air Conditioner 5100 BTU 4-in-1
The CYBERTAKE 4-in-1 offers cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes in one compact portable unit at 25.57 pounds, suitable for rooftop tents or small RVs. It cools spaces quickly by up to 18°F within 15 minutes with its 5100 BTU capacity and heats efficiently using an 1800W heater. This model incorporates a Panasonic inverter compressor to enhance reliability and smart 48V DC system technology for up to 10 hours of energy-efficient cooling with low noise levels (40-55 dB), ideal for restful nights.
Aspligo DC 12V Rooftop Air Conditioner 7000 BTU
The Aspligo DC 12V rooftop air conditioner is engineered for motorhomes and campers requiring a balance between size and cooling capability. Operating at 7,000 BTU, it improves cooling capacity by about 15% compared to similar mid-range units. The unit is designed to fit roofs with specific opening sizes, making installation straightforward. It comes with a remote control that pairs with an intuitive LED display for easy temperature adjustments from inside the vehicle or rooftop tent.
TOSOT GO Cool RV Air Conditioner 15000 BTU
This high-capacity rooftop AC from TOSOT features 15,000 BTU cooling power with a powerful 12,000 BTU heat pump, suitable for larger RVs up to 600 sq ft. It is versatile in extreme temperature ranges (-5°C to 46°C outside) and offers smart WiFi control through the Gree+ app for convenient remote management. The unit’s advanced technology supports effective climate control all year round, providing seamless cooling and heating across different weather conditions.
Coplax Portable Air Conditioner 5100 BTU
The Coplax portable air conditioner combines portability and functionality, weighing around 25 pounds with an ergonomic handle for easy transport. It operates on standard 110V AC power, making it ideal for rooftop tents connected to shore power or home use. Providing 5100 BTU cooling capacity, it is effective for spaces up to 160 square feet. Added features include a 24-hour timer, sleep mode, and quiet operation below 42 dB, which create a comfortable environment during both daytime and nighttime use.
Buying Guide for Rooftop Tent Air Conditioners
Choosing the right rooftop tent air conditioner involves several factors that affect your comfort and convenience while camping. Use the considerations below to make an informed purchase.
Cooling Capacity and Space Size
Select an air conditioner with sufficient BTU rating matching your rooftop tent or RV space. Large units like the TOSOT GO Cool 15000 BTU suit bigger vehicles, while compact tents may only need a unit rated 5,000 to 7,000 BTU for effective cooling.
Power Source and Portability
Consider your power availability. Battery or 12V DC-powered units like the Outequip 12V AC and Aspligo 12V AC offer flexibility for off-grid camping. Portable plug-in models such as the Coplax 110V AC are best if access to mains power is guaranteed.
Heating Functionality
Many rooftop air conditioners double as heaters, an advantage for colder climates. If you expect to camp year-round, prioritize units with integrated heaters like the Outequip or TOSOT GO Cool, which provide both cooling and warmth efficiently.
Installation and Size Compatibility
Measure your rooftop tent’s hatch or RV roof for size compatibility with rooftop air conditioners specifically designed for easy installation, such as the Aspligo 7000 BTU. Check manufacturer guidelines to avoid size or fitment issues.
Control and Convenience Features
Wireless or remote controls add convenience, especially for rooftop models. Units with smart features like WiFi (for example, the TOSOT GO Cool) allow real-time temperature adjustments via smartphone apps, enhancing user experience.
Noise Level
Noise can impact your camping comfort. Devices featuring quiet operation, such as the CYBERTAKE and Coplax, offer noise levels conducive for restful sleep or work during camping.
By considering these factors, you can select a rooftop tent air conditioner that meets your cooling needs precisely, fits your camping setup, and enhances your outdoor comfort throughout the season.