Rooftop tents (RTTs) are a favorite among overlanders and weekend adventurers for good reason—they’re flexible, rugged, and let you sleep off the ground anywhere. But RTTs are also expensive, visible, and, unfortunately, prime targets for theft. Whether you leave your rig parked overnight, unattended during multi-day events, or keeping the tent up for extended periods, preventing theft should be a top priority.
In this guide, we’ll explore proven strategies you can use to protect your rooftop tent, why a locking mount is one of the best security upgrades, and how to choose a locking mount that works well for you.
Why Rooftop Tents Get Stolen
- High visibility & value: An RTT is both big and desirable. Thieves know people care deeply about their tents.
- Easy target when left mounted: Even if you’re away for just a few hours, a tent bolted onto a roof rack is exposed.
- Lack of locking hardware or weak mounts: Standard mounts typically use nuts, bolts, and non-locking brackets—easy to undo with simple tools.
If you ignore the risk, you might spend the next few hours making insurance claims instead of enjoying your adventure.
Key Theft-Prevention Strategies
Here are several ways to secure your rooftop tent, especially during longer or unattended periods:
-
Choose secure mounting hardware
A locking mount replaces or upgrades your standard mount hardware to include lockable components (e.g., locks, spacer assemblies) that resist tampering and bolt cutters. -
Use durable materials & rust-resistant construction
Stainless steel, aluminum, and other corrosion-resistant metals help keep your mount strong and reliable over time. Rust and corrosion can weaken mounts, making them easier to break. -
Low-profile mounts
Keeping the mount low profile helps reduce leverage on bolts and makes it harder to grab the tent. It also draws less attention. -
Park smart
Avoid leaving your rig parked in poorly lit or secluded areas.
Whenever possible, park in view of cameras or with visible security.
In urban settings, park close to traffic or under lights. -
Remove the tent when possible
If you’re not planning to use the RTT for an extended period, removing it (using quick release if available) can reduce risk. -
Insurance & documentation
Take photos of your tent, its brand, serial numbers (if applicable).
Keep any proof of purchase.
Some insurance policies cover theft if you can show you took security measures.
Why a Locking Mount Is a Top Security Solution
If you leave your tent mounted for long stretches or often need to leave your vehicle unattended, a dedicated locking mount is one of the best investments you can make. Here’s what makes the Vanultra Locking Mount especially effective:
- Protects your investment — a rooftop tent is not cheap. A locking mount helps retain ownership and forces thieves to move on.
- Bolt cutter protection — Vanultra’s design includes spacer assemblies that protect the bolt/nut area, making it harder to cut with simple tools. Vanultra
- Rust-free materials — stainless steel and aluminum construction resist corrosion so the locking parts don’t degrade over time. Vanultra
- Low profile, compatibility — designed not to add much height, works with many standard roof rack rails, making it seamless and stealthier. Vanultra
- Strong flange & fitment — the mount’s base includes edge flanges to reduce bending or play, so the tent remains stable and hard to leverage. Vanultra
How to Choose the Right Locking Mount
When shopping for a locking mount, make sure you check for:
| Feature |
Why It Matters |
| Bolt-cutter protection | Stops common theft tools from quickly removing hardware |
| Material quality (stainless steel, aluminum) | Resists rust and maintains integrity over time |
| Compatibility with rack type | Must fit your rack's shape (round, square, flat bars, etc.) |
| Clearance needed (roof-to-rack, height) | Some mounts need space under rack bars to install properly |
| Keying-options/lock type | Having keyed alike locks if using multiple mounts simplifies handling |
| Firm customer reviews & support | Real users reporting that the mounts held up, were secure |
Installation Tips for Maximum Security
- Tighten nuts and bolts to manufacturer specifications (use torque wrench if possible).
- Use threadlocker or washers where needed to prevent loosening under vibration.
- After mounting, try to wiggle/twist to check there's no movement—if there is, re-check fit or contact support.
- Mark or etch a subtle identifier on your tent/mount (if legally allowed) for recovery in case of theft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using standard hardware without locking parts.
- Leaving your vehicle unattended or parked in insecure locations for long periods.
- Not checking compatibility: if your rack or tent has unusual frame rails, mounts might not fit properly or leave gaps that give thieves leverage.
- Underestimating rust/corrosion, especially in wet or coastal environments—it can degrade mount strength.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about adventure, overlanding, or simply want peace of mind when your rig is unattended, investing in a quality locking mount is one of the smartest moves you can make. It gives your rooftop tent that added layer of security so that when you come back after a hike, trip, or leaving your rig overnight, you’re not wondering if your investment will still be there.
By combining a locking mount with good habits—smart parking, proper installation, durable materials—you significantly reduce the risk of theft. Remember: worry should never be part of the adventure.