If you own a rooftop tent (RTT), you already know the convenience of turning your vehicle into a mobile adventure basecamp. But one question comes up for almost every RTT owner: what’s the best way to mount and remove the tent?
There are two main options — standard RTT mounts (traditional nut-and-bolt hardware) and quick release mounts (like the Vanultra system). Both will keep your tent secure, but they have very different pros and cons. Let’s break it down so you can decide which setup is right for you.
Standard RTT Mounts: The Old-School Approach
Standard rooftop tent mounts come straight from the manufacturers. They typically use bolts, flat bars, and lock nuts to clamp the tent to your roof rack.
Pros of Standard RTT Mounts
- Proven reliability: They’ve been used for decades without issue.
- Universal fit: Most RTTs ship with hardware that works on common racks.
- Low cost: Included in the box — no extra purchase needed.
Cons of Standard RTT Mounts
- Time-consuming: Installing or removing your tent can take 30–45 minutes.
- Tools required: You’ll need wrenches, ratchets, or even a friend to help.
- Wear and tear: Repeated installs can strip bolts and damage hardware.
- Daily driver headache: If you use your car during the week, leaving the tent up hurts gas mileage and makes parking garages a no-go.
In short: Standard mounts are fine if you rarely remove your tent. But if you swap between daily driving and camping often, the hassle adds up.
Quick Release RTT Mounts: The Modern Solution
Quick release rooftop tent mounts, like the Vanultra Quick Release Mounts are designed to solve those pain points. Instead of bolts, they use a mechanism that can be removed or installed in under a minute.
Pros of Quick Release Mounts
- Speed: Mount or dismount in 60 seconds or less.
- Tool-free: No wrenches or socket sets — just a simple knob.
- One-person job: Easily remove tent by yourself.
- Keeps your rig flexible: Run your car as a commuter during the week, then add the RTT for weekend trips.
Cons of Quick Release Mounts
- Higher cost: An upgrade compared to the free hardware in the box.
- Initial install: You’ll still use tools for the first setup (after that, it’s quick release).
In short: Quick release mounts are ideal for active campers and overlanders who value flexibility and time.
| Feature | Standard RTT Mounts | Quick Release RTT Mounts |
| Install Time: | 30-45 Minutes | <60 seconds |
| Tools Required: | Wrenches, sockets | None (after setup) |
| One-Person Install: | Rarely | Always |
| Daily Driver Friendly: | No | Yes |
| Cost: | Included with Tent | Upgrade Purchase |
Winner: Quick Release Mounts (for anyone who doesn't leave their RTT on full-time)
Real-World Scenarios
Daily Driver Owners
If you commute during the week in the same vehicle that you use for your camping and overlanding adventures, standard mounts will drive you crazy. Quick release = remove your tent Sunday night, reinstall Friday afternoon, done.
Weekend Warriors
You value spontaneity. Quick release makes last-minute camping trips possible without spending an hour with tools.
Long-Term Expedition Travelers
If your tent will stay mounted for weeks or months at a time, standard mounts may be sufficient. Quick release still helps with maintenance or unexpected removal.
Why Vanultra Quick Release Mounts Are Different
Vanultra’s system is engineered specifically for rooftop tents, with:
- Heavy-duty construction to handle off-road stress.
- Universal compatibility with most RTT and rack systems.
- Optional Locking Mounts for theft prevention.
This isn’t just about convenience — it’s about making your RTT system smarter, safer, and adventure-ready.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
If you’re a casual camper who rarely removes your tent, standard RTT mounts will get the job done.
But if you’re serious about overlanding, road trips, or just want to keep your daily driver practical, quick release mounts are a game-changer. They save time, reduce hassle, and make spontaneous adventure possible.
Ready to upgrade? Check out the Vanultra Quick Release Mounts and experience the difference yourself.