Mars Basecamp Rooftop Tent

The Basecamp mounts to two crossbars using the included M8 T-bolts — both 50mm and 70mm lengths are included to match most crossbar slot depths. Slot the bolts into the crossbar track, position the tent, hand-snug, then torque to your crossbar manufacturer's specification (typically 8-12 Nm for T-slot systems). Ladder attaches to the tent frame via quick-release pins.

First-time setup takes 30-60 minutes including crossbar positioning. Gas struts are factory pre-tensioned — no adjustment needed. After the first setup, open and close solo in under a minute.

Have questions about crossbar spacing or slot compatibility with your specific rack? Reach out to our team at contact@sandyvans.com before mounting — we'll confirm fitment.

How to Choose a Rooftop Tent for Your Van

Rooftop tents have gotten crowded. Here are the six factors that actually separate a good RTT from one that collects dust after the first trip.

1. Closed Height and Vehicle Clearance

This is the first filter. The Basecamp closes to 7.1". On a Sprinter with a standard rack, that adds roughly 9" to your vehicle height. Check your regular parking structures before committing — many downtown garages cap at 7' or 8'. If you're routinely in multi-story parking, closed profile is your most important spec.

2. Roof Payload: Dynamic vs. Static

At 114.6 lbs, the Basecamp is on the lighter end for a hardshell RTT with a full mattress included. The number that matters is your vehicle's dynamic load rating — while driving, not parked. Most Sprinters are rated 165-220 lbs dynamic; the Basecamp fits comfortably within that even with gear inside. Check your specific platform, especially AWD variants.

3. Setup Mechanism: What You're Actually Signing Up For

The Basecamp is semi-automatic: pop the buckles, push the shell, gas struts take it from there. No cranking, no lifting the full shell weight, no remote or battery to fail. Fold-out soft shells cost less but require more physical effort and time. Electric-assist tents add weight, cost, and one more failure point. The gas-strut mechanism hits the sweet spot for van campers who set up and break down regularly.

4. Sleeping Space and Comfort

The Basecamp sleeps two in an 80.7" x 47.2" footprint with 40.6" of peak height when open — long enough for most adults, wide enough for two without negotiating elbow room. The included mattress is 2" thick. If you run cold or are a side sleeper, consider a thin topper. Seated height of 40.6" lets most people sit upright comfortably.

5. Seasonal Capability

The aluminum hardshell and double-layer silver-coated fabric make the Basecamp a legitimate 3-season tent. The included thermal liner extends that into shoulder-season territory — nights in the 30s are manageable with a decent sleep system. For genuine sub-freezing camping, pair it with a sleep setup rated for your expected lows; the shell alone won't fully insulate below freezing.

6. Rack Compatibility and Mounting Hardware

The Basecamp uses standard M8 T-bolt mounting with both 50mm and 70mm bolts included, covering most crossbar T-slot depths. It works with Front Runner, Rhino-Rack, ARB, Yakima, Thule, and most factory crossbars — including our SV Sandbar Roof Rack and SV Starboard Rack. Two crossbars minimum. Reach out before ordering if you're unsure about crossbar spacing or slot compatibility.

Pre-Order Checklist

• Check your vehicle's roof dynamic load rating (not static — the driving number)
• Measure your crossbar center-to-center spacing (two crossbars minimum required)
• Check your most-used parking structure height limits
• Confirm your crossbar slot accepts M8 T-bolts
• Plan your sleep system — supplement the included mattress if you camp cold

How the Basecamp Stacks Up

At $1,999 with mattress and thermal liner included, the Basecamp is priced below most comparable hardshell RTTs. The gas-strut deploy, LED light bar, and universal mounting hardware cover features that are typically add-ons or separate purchases on competing tents. If closed profile is your primary concern, the Mars AeroBlade at 3.48" is the step-up option — but for most van campers the Basecamp hits the sweet spot on price, features, and setup convenience.