By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
Shoppers looking for a thule approach m rooftop tent usually want to know which model fits their vehicle, how many people it sleeps, and whether the setup suits year-round camping. This guide narrows the Thule Approach lineup and related accessories down to six options. The selection criteria were based on published specifications, brand reputation, the fit of each model for different sleeping and vehicle needs, and common patterns in owner feedback. None of these products were physically tested for this article; all comparisons rely on manufacturer information and widely reported owner experiences.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallThule Approach 2, Rooftop TentView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for small vehiclesThule Approach Rooftop Tent – MediumView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for low-profile roof racksThule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop TentView on Amazon - 4
Best for larger familiesThule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop TentView on Amazon - 5
Best accessory for shadeThule Approach AwningView on Amazon - 6
Best budget-minded add-onThule Rooftop Tent Awning WallsView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent | Overall use with a memory foam mattress | Large windows and breathable mesh panels |
| Thule Approach Rooftop Tent – Medium | Smaller vehicles and tighter budgets | Medium footprint for mid-size platforms |
| Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent | Low-profile roof racks and two sleepers | Low-profile design with included mattress |
| Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent | Three sleepers or families | Durable weather-resistant fabric and foam mattress |
| Thule Approach Awning | Extra shade and rain cover at camp | Expands living space beside the tent |
| Thule Rooftop Tent Awning Walls | Privacy and wind protection under the awning | Walls that close off the awning area |
Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent
Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent, Includes Memory Foam Mattress, Large Windows and Breathable mesh Panels
Best for: Overall use with a memory foam mattress
This is the most complete option for buyers who want a second-generation Approach tent with a mattress included. It suits couples and solo campers who plan regular trips and want comfortable sleep without buying extras.
Key specs
- Includes memory foam mattress
- Large windows for ventilation and views
- Breathable mesh panels for airflow
- Designed as a roof-mounted hard-shell style tent
Pros
- Mattress included, so setup is simpler
- Good ventilation through mesh and windows
- Compatible with Approach 2 awning accessories
Cons
- Heavier than soft-shell alternatives, so roof rack capacity matters
- Accessories are sold separately and add to total setup
Bottom line: Choose this model if you want a ready-to-sleep tent with the most listed comfort features and you can confirm your roof rack’s load rating.
Thule Approach Rooftop Tent – Medium
Thule Approach Rooftop Tent – Medium
Best for: Smaller vehicles and tighter budgets
The medium size is aimed at mid-size SUVs, crossovers and compact trucks where a larger tent would overhang the platform. Owners with smaller rigs often choose it to keep weight and wind load down.
Key specs
- Medium footprint suited to mid-size vehicle platforms
- Hard-shell roof-mounted design
- Check the manufacturer’s listed dimensions against your rack before buying
Pros
- Smaller footprint fits more vehicles
- Lower overall weight than larger models
- Works well for a single sleeper or a couple
Cons
- Less interior room than the Approach 2 or Kukenam
- Mattress and extras may need separate purchase
Bottom line: A sensible pick for owners of smaller vehicles who want the Approach design without the bulk of a larger shell.
Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent
Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent, Includes Mattress, Low-Profile Design
Best for: Low-profile roof racks and two sleepers
The Foothill line is positioned as a low-profile option, which appeals to drivers who want to limit wind noise, fuel economy loss and clearance issues in garages or under low structures.
Key specs
- Sleeps two people
- Includes mattress
- Low-profile design when closed
Pros
- Lower profile reduces wind resistance
- Mattress included
- Good for two-person trips
Cons
- Interior headroom may feel tight for taller sleepers
- Fewer accessory options than the Approach line
Bottom line: Best for couples who prioritize a slim profile over maximum interior space.
Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent
Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent, Durable Weather-Resistant Fabric, Foam Mattress Included, Large Windows and mesh Panels
Best for: Three sleepers or families
The Kukenam is the choice for three-person groups or families who need more floor area. Owners who camp with kids or a third adult usually find the extra space worth the added weight.
Key specs
- Sleeps three people
- Durable weather-resistant fabric
- Foam mattress included
- Large windows and mesh panels
Pros
- Room for three sleepers
- Weather-resistant fabric for variable conditions
- Good ventilation from mesh panels
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier, requiring a robust rack
- Larger footprint may limit compatible vehicles
Bottom line: The right call for families or three-person crews with a vehicle and rack rated for the extra load.
Thule Approach Awning
ThuleVersatile Thule Approach Awning expands campsite comfort with reliable sun and rain protection Rooftop Tent Awning Compatible Approach 2 Size Small/Medium
Best for: Extra shade and rain cover at camp
An awning adds a covered living area beside the tent. It is especially useful for campers who spend long stretches in one spot or who need dry space for cooking and gear.
Key specs
- Designed for Approach 2 tents (listing states Small/Medium size)
- Provides sun and rain protection at camp
- Expands usable campsite area
Pros
- Adds shaded living space
- Keeps gear dry during rain
- Works with compatible Approach tents
Cons
- Adds setup time and packed bulk
- Wind performance depends on staking and walls
Bottom line: Worth adding for owners who camp for several days at a time and want covered space outside the tent.
Thule Rooftop Tent Awning Walls
Thule Rooftop Tent Awning Walls Compatible Approach 2 Rooftop Tent
Best for: Privacy and wind protection under the awning
Awning walls close off the sides of the covered area. They are a low-cost way to add privacy and block wind and driven rain when you are cooking or changing clothes.
Key specs
- Compatible with Approach 2 rooftop tent awnings
- Adds side enclosure to awning space
Pros
- Adds privacy and wind block
- Easy add-on to an existing awning
- Helps keep the awning area usable in weather
Cons
- Only useful if you also have an awning
- Adds packing bulk and weight
Bottom line: A practical add-on for owners who already run an awning and want enclosed space.
Buying Guide
Tent Size and Sleeping Capacity
Match the stated capacity to the people who will actually sleep in the tent. Many owners find that a tent labeled for two people is comfortable for two adults, while a three-person label suits two adults plus a child. Check the interior length and width in the manufacturer’s listing, and remember that sleeping pads and sleeping bags take up space.
Good picks for this: Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent; Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent
Vehicle Compatibility and Roof Rack Load
Before comparing tents, confirm your roof rack’s dynamic and static load ratings in your vehicle manual. Add the tent’s listed weight plus the mattress, bedding and any awning to find your total load. Keep in mind that a tent wider than your rack can overhang and create mounting issues.
Good picks for this: Thule Approach Rooftop Tent – Medium; Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent
Shell Style and Profile
Hard-shell tents generally have a lower wind profile when closed and can be quicker to deploy, while soft-shell designs are often lighter. A lower profile reduces wind noise and fuel economy penalties at highway speeds, which matters most for daily drivers and long road trips.
Good picks for this: Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent; Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent
Ventilation and Condensation Control
Condensation is a common issue in rooftop tents. Look for windows and mesh panels that allow cross-ventilation. Owners in humid or cold climates often report that tents with multiple vents are easier to manage. Keep bedding dry and open vents when you wake up.
Good picks for this: Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent; Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent
Mattress and Interior Comfort
Whether the mattress is included affects both cost planning and sleep quality. Foam mattress thickness and density vary, and many campers add a self-inflating pad or a topper. Check whether the tent includes a mattress before you buy extras.
Good picks for this: Thule Approach 2, Rooftop Tent; Thule Foothill 2 Person Rooftop Tent
Durability and Weather Protection
Fabric quality, zipper design and seam construction determine how a tent handles rain, UV exposure and wind. Weather-resistant fabric is a stated feature on some models and is worth prioritizing if you camp in variable climates. Inspect the fabric and seams periodically and keep the tent clean and dry during storage.
Good picks for this: Thule Kukenam 3 Person Rooftop Tent; Thule Approach Awning
Accessories and Expandability
An awning, awning walls and other accessories can turn a sleeping tent into a full camp setup. Choose accessories that are listed as compatible with your specific tent model and size, since mismatched parts will not fit correctly.
Good picks for this: Thule Approach Awning; Thule Rooftop Tent Awning Walls
FAQ
Is the Thule Approach M a hard-shell or soft-shell tent?
The Approach line is generally described as a hard-shell roof-mounted design. Confirm the exact construction in the product listing for the model you are considering, since specifications can vary between versions.
How many people can a thule approach m rooftop tent sleep?
Capacity depends on the specific model. The Medium Approach is generally positioned for one or two people, while the Approach 2 and Foothill 2 are listed for two. The Kukenam is labeled for three. Check the listing’s stated capacity and interior dimensions before buying.
Do I need a special roof rack for a rooftop tent?
Yes, in most cases. You need a rack or crossbars with a load rating that covers the tent’s weight plus gear. Consult your vehicle manual and the tent manufacturer’s mounting requirements before installation.
Is an awning worth adding?
An awning is useful for longer stays, rainy trips and shaded cooking space. For short weekend trips, many campers skip it to save setup time. Compatibility with your tent model is essential.
Can I leave a rooftop tent on my vehicle all the time?
Some owners leave tents mounted for convenience, but this raises wind noise, fuel use and weight on the rack. Check the manufacturer’s guidance on long-term mounting and remove the tent when it is not in use if your rack and vehicle manual recommend it.
How do I prevent condensation inside the tent?
Open vents and windows whenever conditions allow, avoid bringing wet gear inside, and wipe down interior surfaces in the morning. Using a breathable mattress cover can also help. Condensation is common, so plan for it as part of normal use.
Are awning walls compatible with every Thule tent?
No. Awning walls are listed for specific Approach 2 awning configurations. Verify compatibility in the listing before ordering.
Conclusion
For most buyers searching for a thule approach m rooftop tent, the Approach 2 offers the most complete package with a mattress and good ventilation. The Medium Approach suits smaller vehicles, the Foothill 2 favors a low profile for two people, and the Kukenam is the right step up for three sleepers. The Approach Awning and Awning Walls add shade and privacy for longer camps. Always verify roof rack load limits and product compatibility before purchase, and consult your vehicle’s manual or a qualified installer if you are unsure about mounting.
Sources
- Vehicle safety guidance, including roof load and vehicle equipment considerations (nhtsa.gov)
- Consumer product safety information relevant to outdoor equipment (cpsc.gov)
- Camping and backcountry guidance for safe, responsible overnight stays (nps.gov)
Related reading
- Thule Tepui Foothill Rooftop Tent Review: Is It Worth It? (2026)
- Thule Rooftop Tent Subaru: How to Choose and Mount One Safely (2026)
- 7 Best Thule Foothill Rooftop Tent Options for Overlanding (2026)
- 5 Best Thule Basin Hardshell Rooftop Tent Options for Overlanding (2026)
- Yakima SkyRise Rooftop Tent: 7 Best Alternatives Compared (2026)
- Wildfinder Rooftop Tent Accessories: 3 Best Picks Compared (2026)
About Miles Sinclair
Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our off-road trails & overlanding guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
