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Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent Review

If you are on the hunt for an epic new off-roading camping solution, you’ve come to the right place. In this Overland Vehicle System (OVS) Sidewinder roof top tent review, I’ll tell you everything there is to know about this innovative, one-of-a-kind tent and why it can help you elevate your camping game to the next level.

First, I’ll compare hard-sided and softshell rooftop tents to see which is better. Then, I’ll dive into my hands-on review and examine the Sidewinder roof top tent’s key specs, features, and amenities. Finally, I’ll share where to buy an OVS roof top tent and answer some frequently asked questions about roof top tent camping.

Keep reading to learn more about the OVS Sidewinder Roof Top Tent and discover whether it suits you and your camping needs!

Table of Contents

Hard-Sided vs Softshell Rooftop Tents

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent Side Opening

So, what are the differences between a hard-sided and a softshell rooftop tent? First, as their names suggest, they are constructed from different materials. Hard-sided tents boast a hard external shell built from heavy-duty materials like metal and plastic. Alternatively, softshell tents usually have canvas shells. 

While softshell rooftop tents are usually cheaper than hard-sided tents, price is their only advantage. On the other hand, hard-sided rooftop tens are significantly more durable, will last longer, are faster to set up/take down, and are more aerodynamic, leading to better fuel efficiency for your vehicle. 

If you are on a budget, you might be tempted to buy a softshell rooftop tent, and that’s understandable. However, before you do, know that a hard-sided rooftop tent will provide more value in the long run once you factor in its longevity and the money you will save on gas. Therefore, I highly recommend investing in a hard-sided tent like the OVS Sidewinder.

OVS Sidewinder Roof Top Tent Specs

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent either side

You won’t find a sturdier, better-made rooftop tent on the market than the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent. Its frame is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum that is simultaneously strong and lightweight. At the same time, its body uses 600D RipStop Polyester Cotton and 120G Environmentally Fadeless Breathable Gaze materials to create an airy and spacious tent. 

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent window

When closed, the tent measures 91 x 55.5 x 8 inches. When opened, it expands to 91 x 55.5 x 48 inches. The internal sleeping area is 86 x 50 inches and is roomy enough to comfortably fit two or three people. Weight-wise, it clocks in at 185 pounds. 

The OVS Sidewinder roof top tent features a 1-inch insulated aluminum honeycomb base, a storage rack, and all the necessary installation hardware. Also, you will be thrilled to learn that it’s compatible with all vehicles.

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OVS Sidewinder Roof Top Tent Features & Amenities

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent easy side access

Now for a breakdown of the best features of the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent. Inside, you’ll find a large, comfortable mattress made from 2-inch high-density foam covering the entire sleeping area. Hidden under the mattress is a built-in ¾-inch anti-condensation mat that helps reduce moisture. There is also an internal loft ideal for storing small items while sleeping.

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent corner

Externally, all the windows and doors can be rolled up to allow easy access in and out of the tent. Additionally, two air vents on the sides of the tent increase airflow and help to control the temperature on a hot summer night. An adjustable ladder makes it easy to climb up to the tent. 

On top of everything else, the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent has a four-year warranty. This means you can push your limits in the backcountry for years without worrying about problems with your tent. 

Where Can I Get an OVS Sidewinder Roof Top Tent?

btr outfitters logo

Now that you know more about the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent, I bet you are eager to get your own and start having amazing camping adventures. But where can you buy one? That’s where BTR Outfitters comes in!

BTR Outfitters is a trustworthy and dependable outdoor retailer in Texas that sells top-of-the-line outdoor and camping equipment. It is a family-owned business, and every employee has extensive outdoor experience and knowledge of the gear they sell. If you have any more questions about the OVS Sidewinder, you can contact them, and they will be happy to help you.

I have visited the BTR headquarters multiple times and am always amazed by their dedication to quality, commitment to providing the best customer service, and passion for their work. So, whether you live in Texas and can swing by their store to say hello or live elsewhere across the country, don’t hesitate to order the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent from BTR Outfitters!

FAQs

Thank you for taking the time to read my OVS Sidewinder roof top tent review. I hope you found it useful and informative and are now one step closer to pulling the trigger on a new camping solution!

Lastly, here are the answers to some of the most common questions I receive about camping with a roof top tent:

Do I need an anti-condensation mat for my roof top tent?

If you camp exclusively in hot, dry climates, you probably don’t “need” one, but having one is always a good idea. They help control moisture levels in your tent and are game-changers when camping in humid environments or rainy weather. Every OVS Sidewinder roof top tent has a pre-installed anti-condensation mat under the mattress. 

How long does it take to set up a roof top tent?

Overland Vehicle Systems Sidewinder Roof Top Tent back

On average, setting up a roof-top tent takes only 3-4 minutes (which is way faster than traditional ground tents). The OVS Sidewinder roof top tent blows that time out of the water, though, with a setup and put-away time of less than a minute. That speed is particularly useful when it’s dark or raining outside.

Do I have to remove the bedding from my roof top tent to close it?

With most roof top tents, you do, but not the OVS Sidewinder roof top tent. It has ample interior storage that allows you to keep the mattress, anti-condensation mat, bedding, and more inside at all times. So, you can go from behind the wheel to in your sleeping bag in only a couple of minutes!

Friendly disclaimer: Our articles may contain affiliate links that support us without costing you more, and sometimes we spice things up with sponsored content—but only for products we truly stand behind!

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