WHY CHOOSE ROOFTOP CAMPING IN A LAND ROVER DEFENDER?
The beauty of rooftop camping lies in three simple things: speed of setup, unmatched comfort & safety. Add to that the luxury of extra space for some creature comforts, & most importantly – let’s be honest – the whole set up just looks incredibly cool!
If you haven’t been camping since treasured childhood adventures, or you’re wondering if outdoor life might be your thing hiring a Land Rover Camper with a rooftop tent is the perfect way to test the waters. It’s camping with a safety net, offering all the excitement of outdoor living with the comfort of knowing you’ve got reliable equipment & support when you need it.
OUR APPROACH TO ADVENTURE
At Overland Adventures, every Land Rover Defender Camper come fully equipped with Howling Moon roof tents & 270° awnings. Every vehicle is expedition-ready, loaded with top-of-the-range camping equipment covering everything you could possibly need. We’re talking about the full package – from cozy bedding right down to a carefully curated selection of cooking herbs & spices. (Check out our equipment page for the complete inventory list)
We also provide:
- Route planning & navigation tips
- Campsite & wild camping recommendations
- Local food spots & must see attractions
- Essential camping tips & overlanding advice
Even if you’re not adventuring with us, this guide will give you a clear understanding of what’s needed for a successful rooftop camping experience.
Check availabilty and book one of our Expedition Land Rover Defenders today!
PLANNING YOUR LAND ROVER CAMPER ADVENTURE
FIRST-TIMER TIPS
If you’re feeling a bit nervous (totally normal!), consider:
- Partnering with an experienced camper for your first trip
- Try our two-tent option for couples
- Book two or more vehicles if you’re going as a group
The more you plan, the more you’ll enjoy the experience – this is true even for seasoned campers. While I love the spontaneity of just packing up & heading out (some of my most memorable trips have started this way), I wouldn’t recommend this approach for beginners. It’s best start prepared – especially when hiring an Overland Camper.
CHOOSING YOUR EXPERIENCE: ADVENURE OR RELAXATION?
Before diving into the details, ask yourself:
- Are you seeking adventure, relaxation, or both?
- Do you dream of coastal views or dark skies for stargazing?
- What’s your comfort level with remote locations?
Don’t be too afraid of getting off the beaten track as long as you have the right equipment and have planned well enough. Also, don’t be afraid to mix it up – we’ve often thrown in a B&B or hotel night during longer trips. There’s no shame in wanting a hot shower & a proper bed occasionally or a glass of whiskey in the bar of a Highland hotel! Our Defender Campers come with queen size memory foam mattresses complete with sheets, pillows/cases and warm quilts! Some of my best nights sleep have been under the stars!
A great way to get a feel for this style of travel is to start with one of our carefully curated routes, each designed to take the guesswork out of planning. Our routes include suggested itineraries, campsites, places to eat, and standout things to see and do along the way.
The Northumberland 250 is an ideal introduction — it’s flexible, beautifully varied, and can be comfortably completed in 3–5 days, making it perfect for first-time Defender Camper adventures or those looking for a relaxed but rewarding escape.
FINDING THE PERFECT CAMPSITE
CAMPSITE V’S WILD CAMPING
The UK offers a variety of camping options, from established campsites to more remote wild camping spots. As a complete beginner if your not going with a company like Overland Adventures the larger campsites may offer the best choice as they offer essential amenities like toilets, showers, & sometimes even Wi-Fi and it would be good to test your newly bought equipment in a safe environment.
Our Land Rover Camper Hire vehicles are designed for total independence. Equipped with off grid essentials like a bivvi loo, power lack & shower so you can explore freely & comfortably even if you do choose to camp remotely!
Wild camping can be an exciting adventure, but you must get permission from the landowner.
TYPES OF SITES
There’s a huge variety of camping options in the UK:
- LARGE COMMERCIAL SITES – Perfect for beginners with extensive facilities, some of the larger ones can even have restaurants, & children’s play areas.
- INDEPENDENT SITES – Offer a nice balance between wild feeling & good facilities
- WILD CAMPING SPOTS – For the more adventurous (requires land owners permission) But there are lots of land owners throughout the country letting out some amazing spots on their land.
BEST RESOURCES FOR CAMPSITE DISCOVERY
Great resources include:
- PARK4NIGHT: Exceptional for European travel (we used it extensively on our 5 week overlanding trip to Turkey from Northumberland)
- WILD WITH CONSENT: Specialised in approved wild camping locations
- OFF GRID CAMP: Perfect for the authentic outdoor experience
- IOVERLANDER : Worldwide wild camping app
- NATIONAL AGENCIES: Campsites.co.uk & Hipcamp.co.uk (though they miss some smaller independent sites)
- WHAT3WORDS : A great Navigational tool that is accurate to 3 square meters.
- For Northumberland, check out CampingInNorthumberland.co.uk or Northumberlandcampsites.co.uk these sites specialise in all types of campsites for the area.(both non-profit & comprehensive)
CHOOSING THE RIGHT ROOFTOP TENT FOR YOUR LAND ROVER CAMPER
Choosing the right rooftop tent is crucial to ensuring your camping experience is comfortable & enjoyable. There are a few main types to choose from:
- Hard Shell Pop-Up
- Hybrid
- Fold-Out
At Overland Adventures, we use South African Howling Moon fold-out tents, & here’s why we love them:
- Incredibly durable: Built to withstand tough conditions, these tents are perfect for all kinds of adventures.
- Sturdy framework: The robust design ensures that the tent is stable & secure, even in challenging weather.
- More room & configuration options: The fold-out style gives you extra space inside & offers flexibility in how you set up your camp.
- Ability to attach an awning or privacy tent: The versatility allows you to expand your setup, making it even more comfortable & practical.
- Quieter in the wind: Unlike some hard-shell options, the Howling Moon tents are much quieter when the wind picks up, ensuring a more peaceful night’s sleep.
- Adaptable to the UK’s variable weather: These tents are built with the unpredictable British climate in mind, keeping you comfortable whether it’s hot or cold.
Each Defender setup includes a 270° swing awning — your best friend for sun or rain protection.
AWNINGS: A MUST-HAVE FOR EVERY ROOFTOP CAMPER
In my opinion, an awning is essential for any rooftop camping adventure. It provides invaluable protection from both the sun & rain, ensuring that you’re comfortable no matter the weather.
Personally, I’m a big fan of swing awnings. These are fantastic because they extend around the vehicle, take seconds to put out and keep you dry when you’re getting in & out of your tent, as well as when you’re accessing your boot. We’ve spent many a rainy night tucked under the awning, still having a great time. Whether it’s cooking dinner, having a drink, or simply enjoying the outdoors, an awning provides that extra bit of shelter that can make all the difference in creating a relaxed, enjoyable camping experience.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT FOR OVERLAND CAMPER ADVENTURES
Before you hit the road, make sure you’ve packed everything you’ll need. If you have the correct kit for the correct adventure then whatever the weather throws at you, you can still enjoy it. A solid kit list is essential. Here’s a basic breakdown of what you’ll need. Remember – this is a list you’ll find useful if you’re going it alone – if you adventure with Overland Adventures we include all this gear as standard – our Defenders are literally “expedition-ready”…
Checkout our equipment page to see the full range of kit we provide.
SLEEP SYSTEM
- Sleeping Bags/Quilts: Choose based on season & temperature rating
- Mattress: Most rooftop tents include one, but consider a memory foam topper
- Pillows: Bring proper ones from home – you have the space, so no need for compromises!
COOKING EQUIPMENT
- Two-burner gas or multi-fuel stove
- Complete cookware set
- Utensil & knife set with KFS (Knife, Fork, Spoon)
- Cooler box or fridge
- Extra fuel canisters
- BBQ/Fire pit (essential for the full experience)
LIGHTING
- Headlamps (I always pack two)
- Multiple portable lanterns
- Spare batteries
- Candles you can get ones with citronella, ideal for keeping away the bugs.
WHAT TO PACK FOR AN OVERLAND ADVENTURE
The UK’s weather can be unpredictable especially in mountainous regions with their own microclimates, so pack layers that you can easily add or remove. Waterproof clothing is essential, as is a sturdy pair of shoes for walking or hiking. Even in summer, evenings can get chilly, so always bring a warm hat & extra socks & a warm jacket.
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Waterproof jacket & trousers
- Sturdy footwear
- Extra socks
- Warm hat (essential even in summer)
- Midlayer – Fleece or similar
- Down jacket
TOILETRIES & HYGIENE
Bring along all the essentials, including biodegradable soap, toilet roll, & hand sanitiser.
FOOD PLANNING
Keep it tasty but simple:
- Start with prepared meals for the first few nights
- Plan a BBQ night
- Consider timing for perishables (use white meat & fish first)
- Consider hiring one of our Ooni pizza ovens for a special meal – you can even order the pizza pack (italian dough, sauce, mozzerala, fresh basil with all the kit to roll an alfresco feast!)
WEATHER PLANNING – VERY IMPORTANT
Check specialized forecasts:
Don’t let rain forecasts discourage you – some of our most memorable trips have included wet weather. With proper preparation & equipment, it just adds to the adventure! At Overland Adventures all our vehicles come with large awnings so whatever the weather you can still enjoy being outdoors!!
FIRST AID KIT
Be prepared for minor injuries or illnesses, know basic first Aid is always a bonus. Some first Aid kits come with a small booklet with instructions on basic first aid.
STAY ENTERTAINED
Get rid of phones & bring simple activities like card games, a journal, or books to enjoy downtime.
STARGAZE
If you have a good set of binos you’re in no better place than to view the night sky, particularly in areas like Northumberland which is a Dark Sky area. OA has a stargazing pack as an extra.
KNOW YOUR TENT
Before hitting the road, set up your rooftop tent in your driveway or an open space at home. This allows you to familiarise yourself with how to deploy & pack away the tent, ensuring you’re not caught off guard when you arrive at the campsite.Overland adventures we provide videos with instructions & a comprehensive handover so you set off with confidence you know what you’re doing.
TEST YOUR EQUIPMENT
Try out your stove, lighting, & other gear at home to make sure everything works & is in good condition. You don’t want surprises when you’re out in the wild! Note: we test all your equipment for you if you are Defender camping with us. We also provide a pack with instructions to travel with you. How to video’s & conduct a comprehensive hand-over so you are fully prepared to hit the open road with confidence.
VEHICLE CHECK
Check your vehicle thoroughly, have a little checklist to go through, & carry some simple spares – light bulbs, oil, jump leads, coolant, tyre inflator & understand your vehicle. Again, for those of you choosing to adventure with us, rest assured, we’ve checked your vehicle thoroughly & we’ve packed your spares too!
Photo Credit: Overland Adventures/Northumberland to Turkey : Know your vehicle – particularly it’s height when booking ferries!
PRO TIPS FROM OUR OVERLAND EXPERTES
- Create a Kit List: Use an app to track your gear – saves time & prevents forgetting essentials
- Equipment Checks: Test everything before leaving, especially new gear
- Vehicle Awareness: Remember your height restrictions with the tent
- Evening Routine: Pack away chairs & equipment to avoid morning dew or overnight rain.
- Organization: Use labeled boxes for different categories (cooking, general equipment)
- Fuel Management: Keep the tank above half-full in remote areas
- Wind Protection: Position your tent into the wind
- Recovery Plan: Join a recovery company (starts around £60/year – note: if you are hiring with ourselves full insurance & breakdown recovery is included as standard)
- Midge Defense: Bring repellent & candles
- Bug Protection: Always zip up tent window nets
- Lighting: Pack multiple headtorches & spare batteries
- Ferry Planning: Book early crossings & build in buffer days
- Waste Management: Tie rubbish bags to wing mirrors, off the ground
- Route Planning: Download offline maps or your route maps in case you’re in areas you can’t get any signal. Always carry a Road Atlas
- Leave No Trace: Always leave your site as you found it
- Driving & Parking Keep in mind the extra height of your vehicle with the rooftop tent. Avoid low bridges or parking in multi-storey car parks, & ensure you park on flat, stable ground to keep the tent secure.
FINAL THOUGHTS: START YOUR LAND ROVER ADVENTURE
Remember, the best adventures often come from embracing imperfection. That unexpected rainstorm or the wrong turn might just lead to your favourite camping memory. With solid preparation, flexibility, & the right attitude, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the journey—whatever it brings!
Rooftop camping in a Land Rover Defender not only will you be the collest camper on the road but it gives you freedom, comfort and an adventure in one unbeatable package.
So, if you’re curious to try Land Rover Defender Camper Hire for your first rooftop camping experience, our Expedition Land Rover Defenders are the perfect introduction to overland life check availabilty to book now!
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