The 3-Minute Camp: Why the Soft Shell RTT is My Secret to Longer Weekends
Q: Most people are moving to hard-shell tents. Why did you choose the OpenRoad Soft Shell?
Julian: "Honestly? I love the classic look, but more importantly, I love the space. For my truck, this soft shell gives me a king-sized interior that feels much more airy and open than a cramped hard shell. And let’s talk about the weight—it’s light enough that I don't feel it affecting my fuel economy on the highway."
Q: Does the setup actually save you time on a Friday night?
Julian: "Look at the photo—that was taken 5 minutes after I parked. In the past, I’d be struggling with tent poles in the dark, hunting for a flat spot that wasn't covered in mud or rocks. Now, I just unbuckle the heavy-duty cover, flip it open, and the ladder does the work. My bedding stays inside. From 'engine off' to 'lying down,' it’s about 3 minutes. It feels like our weekends start earlier now because we aren't wasting the first night on logistics."
Q: How does it handle the unpredictable Dutch weather?
Julian: "We get a lot of humidity here. The high-density foam mattress stays dry, and the fabric is thick enough to block out the early morning sun. It’s transformed my truck into a mobile hotel room. If you want comfort without the $3,000 price tag of a hard shell, this is the way to go."
Product: OpenRoad Soft Shell Roof Top Tent

