The main Kings roof top tent alternatives in Australia are tents from Darche, Ironman 4x4, ARB, James Baroud and RIGDUP. Kings (Adventure Kings, sold by 4WD Supacentre) makes popular, well-priced tents, so the right alternative depends on what you want that your Kings model does not give you, such as a different shape, solar in the box or a different warranty.
This guide is not here to knock Kings. Plenty of campers get good use from their Kings tent. It shows what to compare, which hard shell and soft shell tents to look at, and when a Kings tent is still the right buy.
Why Look for a Kings Roof Top Tent Alternative?
Most people comparing Kings with other brands are not unhappy with Kings. They want to check they are getting the right tent for their rig. These are the usual reasons:
- Shape and layout: Clamshell, wedge, pop up and fold-out tents all sleep and pack differently. You may want a style or size that is not in the Kings range.
- What comes in the box: Some tents include cross bars, a ladder, a solar panel or power sockets. Others sell them as extras or bundles.
- Weight: Your vehicle’s dynamic roof load limits how heavy a tent you can carry.
- Warranty and support: Warranty length, where you get help and how you get spare parts all differ by brand.
- Budget: Kings tents are priced at the lower end of the market. Some buyers want to see what more money gets them.
None of these mean a Kings tent is a bad tent. They are reasons to compare before you buy.
What Should You Compare in a Kings Roof Top Tent Alternative?
A roof top tent is a big purchase. Check these things on any tent you are looking at, Kings included:
- Total weight: Add the tent, the rack and anything else on the roof. It all has to stay under your vehicle’s dynamic roof load and your rack’s rating.
- Setup speed: A hard shell usually opens in about a minute. A fold-out soft shell takes a few minutes more, but often costs less.
- Canvas quality: Look for ripstop poly-cotton canvas of about 280gsm or more. Lighter canvas wears faster in Australian heat, UV and rain.
- Mattress thickness: Aim for 40mm to 70mm high-density or memory foam. Thinner foam lets you feel the base underneath.
- Waterproofing: A rating of about PU3000mm keeps you dry in heavy rain. This matters most on the coast and in the wet season.
- Ventilation: Mesh windows on more than one side cut condensation overnight.
- Local support: A local warranty means faster help when something breaks on a remote trip.
- Included hardware: Check whether cross bars, the ladder and mounting gear are in the box or sold separately.
Getting these right at the start means fewer surprises on the road.
What Are the Alternatives to a Kings Hard Shell Roof Top Tent?
Kings’ hard shell range includes the Grand Tourer MKIII, the Grand Tourer Sports Lite and the Grand Tourer PRO, plus the side-opening Tourer X (from the Kings hard shell roof top tent range, checked October 2026). If you are weighing up a Kings hard shell roof top tent, these are other hard shells sold in Australia:
| Brand / Model | Type | What Stands Out | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| RIGDUP Nomad 1.4M | Clamshell hard shell with gas struts | 255W solar panel included, 70mm memory foam mattress, power socket with USB-C, USB-A and 12V, cross bars in the box, 72 kg | Couples who want solar and power in the box |
| RIGDUP 1.3M | Clamshell hard shell | A little smaller than the 1.4M, 225W solar panel, 12V socket with Anderson plug, 360° LED light | Buyers who want solar included in a slightly smaller tent |
| Darche KOZI series | Hard shells, including the Skyline clamshell | Australian brand, sold through dealers | Buyers who want a dealer nearby |
| Ironman 4x4 Swift 1400 | Wedge hard shell with gas struts | Australian brand with a wide dealer network | Buyers who want local dealer backup |
| James Baroud Evasion | Premium hard shell | European brand known for long-lasting builds | Buyers wanting a long-term top-tier tent |
Compare what each tent includes, not just the shell. A tent with cross bars, a ladder and solar in the box can work out cheaper than a lower-priced tent that needs them added.
Are There Soft Shell Alternatives to a Kings Tent?
Yes. Soft shell (fold-out) tents often cost less than hard shells, and many fold out into a bigger bed. Kings sells fold-out tents, and so do Darche, Ironman 4x4 and ARB. Many are lighter than hard shells too, but not all, so check the listed weight.
RIGDUP’s fold-out is the Nomad 1.8M. It sleeps 2 to 3 and is the roomier option, but it is sold out right now.
How Much Does a Kings Roof Top Tent Alternative Cost?
Prices are a rough guide from early 2026. Check each brand’s site for today’s price.
Under $1,500 - Entry Level
- Most Kings fold-out tents and other budget soft shells sit here
- Expect simpler canvas, thinner mattresses and fewer features included
$1,500 to $2,500 - Mid Range
- Better soft shells and some hard shells
- This is where canvas, ventilation and ladder quality usually step up
$2,500 and Up - Premium
- Most hard shells with extras like solar, power sockets or aluminium honeycomb bases
- James Baroud sits above $4,500 for buyers wanting a top-tier European tent
Work out the full cost before you compare. Add cross bars, a ladder, solar and power if a tent does not include them. RIGDUP’s current prices are on each product page.
Will a Kings Alternative Fit Your 4WD?
Check your vehicle’s roof load rating before you buy any tent. The dynamic roof load is the most weight your roof can carry while you drive. Going over it can damage the roof and change how the vehicle handles. Your owner’s manual has the number.
Weight adds up fast. The Nomad 1.4M weighs 72 kg before you add the rack, so it needs a vehicle and rack rated to carry that. Our guide to roof rack weight limits for roof top tents shows how to add it up, and the RIGDUP fitting guide checks whether a tent suits your vehicle and rack.
Hard Shell or Soft Shell - Which Is Right for You?
Neither is better overall. It comes down to your rig and how you camp. This table breaks it down:
| Factor | Hard Shell | Soft Shell |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | About a minute | 5 to 15 minutes |
| Packed Height | Usually low profile, less wind drag | Sits higher, more wind drag |
| Weight | Generally heavier (50 to 90kg) | Often lighter (30 to 55kg) |
| Ventilation | Good if designed with mesh vents | Often good, with several mesh windows |
| Condensation | Can trap moisture without good airflow | More airflow can cut moisture buildup |
| Durability | Shell resists hail and branches | Canvas cover can wear with heavy outback use |
| Best For | Campers who move camp often | Campers who stay put and want more room |
If you move camp every day, a hard shell saves time. If you stay put for a few nights and want more room, a soft shell often makes more sense. Our hard shell vs soft shell roof top tent comparison goes deeper.
Is a Kings Roof Top Tent Still a Good Buy?
For many campers, yes. Kings tents are priced low, and 4WD Supacentre has company stores in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA, SA and the ACT, so you can often see a tent before you buy. They also sell spare parts and accessories such as anti-condensation mats, and offer a 30 day change of mind guarantee (conditions apply, checked October 2026).
An alternative makes sense when a Kings model does not have the layout, size, features or warranty you want. Compare the specs side by side, not just the brand name.
Which Australian Brands Offer Local Support?
When you are 600 km from the nearest town and something breaks, local support matters. Here is where to get help from each brand:
| Brand | Based | Where You Get Help |
|---|---|---|
| RIGDUP | Gold Coast, QLD (workshop in Molendinar) | Phone 0455 166 273, 2 year warranty, 30 day returns |
| Kings (4WD Supacentre) | Australian retailer | Company stores in NSW, QLD, VIC, WA, SA and the ACT |
| Darche | Australian brand | Dealer network |
| Ironman 4x4 | Australian brand | Physical dealer network |
| ARB | Australian brand | Large 4WD dealer network |
Before you buy from any brand, ask how warranty claims work and where spare parts come from. RIGDUP’s workshop is at 56 Export Drive, Molendinar, on the Gold Coast.
So, Should You Switch From Kings?
If you camp a few times a year and do not head far off the beaten track, a Kings tent can do the job well. If you want a different layout, solar and power in the box, or a different warranty, compare the alternatives above.
RIGDUP’s Nomad 1.4M suits couples who want a clamshell that opens in about 60 seconds, with the bedding left inside, a 255W solar panel and a power socket included. It sleeps 2 and weighs 72 kg, so it is the wrong pick for a family of four or a vehicle with a low roof load rating.
The further and more often you travel, the more these details matter. If a clamshell with solar in the box suits how you camp, see the Nomad 1.4M roof top tent.
FAQs
Is a roof top tent better than a ground tent for 4WDing in Australia?
A roof top tent keeps you off the ground, away from wet soil, insects and snakes. Setup is faster and you sleep on a proper mattress. A ground tent costs less and has more room. For regular 4WD touring, many people find a roof top tent more practical.
How much should I spend on a quality rooftop tent in Australia?
As a rough guide, mid-range tents sit around $1,500 to $2,500, and most hard shells with extras cost $2,500 or more. Spending more usually gets you better canvas, faster setup and more in the box. Think about how often you camp before you set your budget.
What is the lightest rooftop tent available in Australia?
Soft shell fold-out tents are often the lightest, but weights vary a lot between models. Kings’ own hard shell page puts most hard shells at 50 to 80 kg. Our lightweight roof top tent guide covers what to look for. Always check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load before buying.
Can I mount a rooftop tent on a Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger?
Yes, but check the dynamic roof load rating in your owner’s manual first. Use a rack rated above the weight of your tent. Lighter tents suit vehicles with lower roof ratings. Always confirm the rack and tent work together before you buy.
What rooftop tent canvas weight is best for harsh Australian conditions?
Look for at least 280gsm poly-cotton ripstop canvas. For outback and coastal trips, 320gsm is better. Heavier canvas handles UV, rubbing and heavy rain better. Thin canvas tends to wear and leak sooner with regular use.
