Can You Use a Rooftop Tent Without Bed Bars?
By ROAM Adventure Co. | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Product Reviews
You can mount a rooftop tent without bed bars only if your vehicle has a factory roof rack or a compatible truck bed setup. Here's how to decide.
Quick answer
Yes, you can use a rooftop tent without bed bars—but only if your vehicle has a factory roof rack system or a dedicated truck bed mounting solution. Bed bars are not the only option, but they remain the most versatile and secure choice for most truck owners.
Mounting Options That Don't Require Bed Bars
If your truck or SUV came with a factory-installed roof rack, you can mount a rooftop tent directly to the crossbars—provided the weight rating matches the tent's weight. Many modern rooftop tents, including the Vagabond 2.0 Rooftop Tent from ROAM Adventure Co., are designed with a low-profile silhouette that works well on roof racks without exceeding height limits.
For truck beds, some manufacturers offer bed-specific mounting brackets that attach to the bed rails or stake pockets, eliminating the need for traditional bed bars. These systems work best with hardshell tents like The Desperado Hardshell Rooftop Tent, which sets up in under 30 seconds and doesn't require a separate mounting platform.
The trade-off is flexibility. Bed bars let you adjust the tent's position forward or backward to balance weight distribution. Without them, you're locked into a fixed mounting point, which may not suit every vehicle or tent size.
When Bed Bars Are Still the Better Choice
Bed bars remain the most reliable mounting method for rooftop tents on pickup trucks. They distribute the tent's weight evenly across the bed rails and allow you to center the tent over the bed for optimal aerodynamics and stability. If you plan to switch vehicles or frequently adjust your setup, bed bars give you that freedom.
Another advantage: bed bars raise the tent above the bed sides, giving you more headroom inside the tent and easier access to the ladder. Without them, a tent mounted directly to the bed may sit lower, making entry and exit less comfortable.
For most overland builds, a roof rack or factory crossbars work fine for SUVs, while bed bars are the go-to for trucks. If your vehicle lacks both, you'll need to install one or the other before you can safely mount a tent.
Diagnosis: Can you go without bed bars?
- Symptom: You want to mount a rooftop tent but don't have bed bars and aren't sure if they're required. You're not alone—many truck owners ask this before buying.
- Likely cause: Most truck beds lack factory mounting points for a tent, so bed bars are the standard solution. Without them, you need an alternative like a roof rack or bed-specific brackets. Check your vehicle's roof or bed for existing mounting hardware first.
- Corrective action: If your vehicle has a factory roof rack with sufficient weight capacity, mount the tent there. If not, look into bed-mount brackets designed for your truck model. Otherwise, install a set of bed bars or a roof rack. Choose the option that fits your vehicle and tent weight.
- Decision point: If you plan to switch vehicles or want the most adjustable setup, bed bars are still the best investment. If you want a clean, low-profile install on an SUV, a roof rack works fine. For most truck owners, bed bars remain the recommended route.
Product facts
- Vagabond 2.0 Rooftop Tent: The Vagabond 2.0 is the next evolution of our flagship rooftop tent. It is lighter, tougher, and more comfortable than ever. We’ve upgraded it with a redesigned low-profile silhouette, a plush 2.5" dual-layer memory foam mattress, integrated LED lighting, internal storage, and an insulated base. Its low-profile design makes it a great match for roof racks or factory crossbars, keeping overall vehicle height manageable for garages and low-clearance trails.
- The Desperado Hardshell Rooftop Tent: The Desperado is the ultimate adventure rooftop tent for anyone seeking a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience. Setting it up is super easy and can be done in under 30 seconds, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your trip. The spacious interior provides plenty of room. If you choose a bed-mount solution without bed bars, a hardshell like the Desperado simplifies setup and eliminates the need for additional mounting hardware.
