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Is a Roof Tent Legal in the UK?

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A roof tent is legal in the UK as long as it stays within the car's roof load rating, is securely mounted, and does not obscure your view, lights or plate. The usual limits are weight and secure fitting, not the tent itself.

Why?

Roof tents are allowed, but a roof is only rated to carry so much, both a static weight and a lower dynamic (moving) limit, and the roof bars have their own rating. The load must stay within the lower of those, which is what keeps a heavy tent from overstressing the roof while driving.

It then has to be securely mounted so it cannot shift or come loose, and it must not block the driver's view, cover any lights or hide the number plate. You also need to be aware of the extra height for low bridges and car parks, and of any overhang front or rear.

Within those limits a roof tent is road-legal. Overload the roof, mount it insecurely or let it obscure lights or the plate and it is not.

What decides if it's legal

  • The load must stay within the roof and roof-bar weight ratings.
  • It must be securely mounted and not come loose in use.
  • It must not obscure the driver’s view, lights or number plate.
  • Mind the extra height and any overhang.

Does it depend on your car?

The roof and bar weight ratings vary by car, so the safe tent weight depends on the vehicle. The rules on secure mounting and not obscuring lights or the plate are the same for all.

Related guides

Related legality guides

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Sources

This page is general guidance, not legal advice, on the rules in the UK for roof tent. The detail varies by exact vehicle and changes over time - confirm with your insurer and the latest DVSA and GOV.UK guidance before modifying.