Why I switched from the iKamper to the Roofnest Falcon XL

Recently, I switched my rooftop tent from the iKamper Skycamp 2.0 to the Roofnest Falcon XL.
In this video, I explain why.
Roofnest Falcon XL:
roofnest.com/p...
The Replacement Air Mattress shown in the video:
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#rooftoptent #IKamper #roofnest #overlanding

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Follow me on Instagram for Real time updates and some behind the scenes stuff: instagram.com/edward_shin_/

[@Rad_B_OLand]

So being that there are two doors does that mean you can put the ladder on either side?

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Conny Bjaaland yup

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

How is it in cold weather?

[@adrianricardobuilds8213]

I think one of the biggest advantage of this style pop-up tent is the smaller footprint once fully deployed. it just takes up the space of the vehicle it's on whereas the ikamper and other foldout tents occupies the area next to the vehicle.

[@miguelgalvez6447]

I kinda like the ikamper more, just due to the fact that I'm able to mount it on my 4runner and it tucks up nicely. As well as the window above, always great to have it open on a clear night and see the milky way! I keep my stuff outside so no issue with garages but i understand your decision! Great vid 👌

[@stumptownwoodworks]

The Condor XL is a great alternative at around 3200$ compared to 4200 or so for the iKamper in the rugged black color

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Miguel Galvez you cant go wrong with either tent, especially if your circumstances don’t create the same issues that I’ve had 👍

[@miguelgalvez6447]

@@stumptownwoodworks i'll look into the condor XL! I appreciate it

[@monsignorotarpaigh9297]

I've been researching RTTs for a year. For me, trading space and storage for a 1 minute savings of set up time just doesn't pencil. CVT and iKamper are both insanely overpriced! I just don't see their value. I appreciate your videos and this made me feel much better about my choice to go with another company where I'll get a lot more bang for the buck.

[@magnushaslund3481]

If you don’t mind me asking, what did you end up buying?

[@monsignorotarpaigh9297]

@@magnushaslund3481 none, actually. The RTT trend is incredibly overpriced.

[@monsignorotarpaigh9297]

@@magnushaslund3481 I ended up abandoning this overpriced trend and sticking with my $300 Napier truck tent.

[@dannyeugenewaits9486]

I still like my ikamper, the most wonderful thing about ikamper is during a wonderful storm you have the ability to keep the sides open and the skylight open with the waterproof windows...just love seeing the lightning and colors of a storm

[@melsavorbeck5915]

Thank you for the good review. We`re currently in the process of selecting a hard-shell RTT to replace our old soft/folding one. Some comments on your comparison: - Price: I think it would have been better if you`d compared the price of the cheaper Skycamp Mini to the Roofnest Falcon as they are more similar in size - Moving around the vehicle after setting up the tent: you could have just slide up the ladder on the Skycamp and leave the tent unfolded to move the car a little bit - At least in Europe there are places where you are allowed to use a RTT that doesn`t use more space than your car like the Roofnest whereas a tent like the Skycamp would not be allowed. Hope you don`t mind my suggestions, other than that it`s a really helpful video. After looking at the Eezie Awn Stealth, Alu Cab 3.1, Bush Company Alpha and the Roofnest, we went for the Skycamp Mini 3.0. We can leave our sleeping bags in there, have more space and less weight to carry.

[@kkauweloa]

Good points on the Falcon...it's strongest point is the ability to carry stuff on top using the racks and T-slot rails. However, not being able to store your bedding for two people and the ladder means all that needs to be stored in the rig and you have the chance of forgetting the ladder or sleeping gear behind. I also find the roominess of the iKamper to be ideal when the weather gets wet/cold etc and you want a place to chill, play a card game, draw, read , etc. You can do that more comfortably in king sized iKamper. Nice informative comparison between the two overall-thank you

[@myfalconry76]

Actually there is a way around this. You fold the mattress halfway back tuck it into the back part of the wedge. Then you put your sleeping bags and pillows on the wide end along with your pillows.

[@marc9709]

For the sake of an extra minute I’d rather have the larger tent.... also, if you wanna move the truck and have a none removable ladder just shorten it up so it’s not touching the ground 😃. Great video as always 🤙

[@softroadingthewest]

Well demonstrated and explained as always. I really really like this style of RTT...despite being more expensive than conventional RTTs, this slim clamshell design is the only type I would consider putting on my car. I love that it has integrated channels around the sides and the ability to mount stuff on top...that would be a crucial factor for my compact rig. Maybe one day I'll finally be sleeping up there on my roof! :-) I hope to get a closer look at yours soon!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

softroadingthewest yeah this design definitely has many benefits, especially for the type of camping/off-roading you like to do 👍. I definitely see one of these in your future 😉

[@PIZOtv]

I'm definitely really considering this after debating on Skycamper and GoFast Campers! Glad I stumbled across this!

[@caesardgreatest]

I was debating between this and GFC, but ended up getting this because of the price point and lead time. Still, a month wait before I get it. I already have a softshell, so just upgrading.

[@PIZOtv]

@@caesardgreatest I have yet to install mine, but it's just about that time! I'm stoked.

[@caesardgreatest]

@@PIZOtv let me know how it turns out!

[@insaynbcr]

I regret not bugging you some during the campout on the Alvord, to get a closer look at the tent. The narrower Falcon might be a good option for my daughter's Nissan Pathfinder down the road. In noticed when you opened it, there was a good amount of suction as it tried to fill it's lung as it opened. And again, a little "poofy" as you were drawing it closed. I usually drop my Maggiolina Airtop in the front first as I completely close the front window, and both sides to keep dust and water from getting in during travel. I leave the rear window open half way to help facilitate air into and out of the tent as I open/close it. Seems to help speed up the opening, and reduce the "poof" of the tent when closing. I really like the slots down the sides of the tent, as it would allow for mounting all kinds of cool stuff to it. The rack on top would be good for your SUPs if you didn't want to have to inflate them each time you used them. My wife and daughter fill theirs at home with the shop compressor, and then use my truck to haul them to the lake/river and back. Great functioning tent!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

C_INSAYN good tips! I do try to keep most of the windows closed, with a slight opening to let air travel. This is because in case we we have to open up the tent while raining, nothing gets wet inside. We also bought a cordless inflator for the SUP’s, which I’m hoping will facilitate the inflation, but I like your pre-inflation idea!

[@henryi9738]

I've been trying to compare both iKamper and Roofnest tents, so this video has proven valuable to me, thank you very much.

[@VirtualTurkey]

Ikamper still better. World map, duh lol. Just intalled my Tuwa Pro Bed Rack and my Ikamper mini is in shipping as we speak. Good content brother man! Love it. Keep it up.

[@SS-qq9to]

I was looking for some information on what truck I should buy and I stumbled into these videos.. I love the set up and I feel extra expenses in my future 😂😂

[@ryanbancroft3680]

Same

[@matthewlawlor3276]

Another great video!!! I am looking for a rooftop for my 4Runner & Tundra. The falcon checks all the boxes but 3500-3600 is still a big nut. I wish it was around 2700 for this model with the rack. Maybe in the future with a sale or a code. Keep up the great work

[@broux2311]

WoW! Quick setup! I truly like this design best than the last! Love the colors, looks good on your Tundra! Happy, safe travels🙏❤️

[@redwhiteblue7831]

Nice setup... great tent. You do what's best for you not others, that's what I like about you. Good for you bro. Thank you for sharing, take care Edward.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

RedWhite&Blue 78 thanks bro. Hope you and your little ones are doing well 🍻

[@Corman911]

You described many of the same reasons I went with a clam shell type tent. I have limited clearance in my garage and needed a slim profile to be able to park in the garage. I can leave my bedding in my tent and love the convince of that set up. I went with the Camp King RTT and really love it. Thanks for sharing.

[@colin707]

What's the height of your garage??

[@Chicanoverland]

I like this one but I also like keeping our sleeping bag and blankets in there. I’ll be considering this company in the future. Great video Ed. Thanks for sharing.

[@davidcolinstillman5585]

LOOKS NICE ! I LIKE THAT'S THIN & HELPS WITH GAS MILEAGE ! BE SAFE ! HAVE FUN ! GOD BLESS YOU BOTH & THE PUP TOO ALWAYS ON YOUR JOURNEYS ! ENJOYED !

[@999Unstoppable]

The aluminum shell is going to last much longer than the ABS plastic shells on the iKamper so for iKamper to charge that much, it's just fleecing consumers, imho. With the Falcon, you can also attach solar panels and the aluminum acts as a heat sink. Good review btw!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@jimmy_chien valid points! 👊

[@RenegadeTactical]

You're honesty and unbiased feedback is refreshing. I appreciate what you do and have subscribed!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@ashton_smith I appreciate it, Ashton! Welcome to the channel 👊

[@AP-lh1bq]

This is a great video. Thanks for introducing me to the roofnest.

[@mattfdepp1]

Thanks for all the iKamper vids. I would prefer the roofnest/cvt hardshell type tent but I always have 2-3 teenage kids camping with me so the iKamper is really the best option..

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@mattd makes complete sense to me 👍

[@TravelTourTaste]

Hello we hope your well and keeping safe . we also hope your having a great weekend . and WOW what a cool set up and to take 28 seconds for that to be up was amazing . thats deffo a plus in my eyes. I bet you are so glad they reached out to you to test this . Kind Regards Sarah and Glenn

[@2mustange]

Marketing and PR is a pain in the ass. Just good to see you are having fun and enjoying your hobby of going outdoors

[@chrisdonald625]

I have an ARB Simpson III RTT. Good tent, easy to put up but a pain to pack up like most RTTs. However, on my JKU it opens to the rear over the lift gate and has underside access. It is an instant rain awning both to cook under and for getting in and out. I am looking for a hardshell replacement but the problem with most front hinged clamshell designs, including Roofnest, is that there is no rain protection for side access even if there are ladder hooks.I still want access to my kitchen through the back so a rear ladder is in the way and would interfere with a 5ft rollout awning on the back for rain protection. I live in British Columbia and we get a lot of rain!!! The iKamper Skycamp covered side entrance solves that issue. Yes, 12" height can be problematic.

[@patrickhamilton8585]

Look at that truck still a better looking truck then what you have presently

[@DansOverlanding]

Great video. I got a Roofnest Sandpiper and I'm very happy with the tent.

[@galensinkey]

Great video as always. I'm in the process of selling my iKamper 2.0 4x to go with something smaller, so this answered a lot of questions for me.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Galen Sinkey 👍

[@felipemontoya4783]

Hi Galen, How much are you asking for your ikamper? Thanks!

[@paranoy69]

good video... this is funny to watch.. before i just watched anoter video that the guy just said he didn't like Roofnest because a lots of issues... this is why i can't decide what i will buy.. have a nice day

[@Thisoneguy949]

What a awesome set up this makes me wanna go camping right now! I hope they make these for a Silverado

[@TrailAdventuresTV]

Ease of use wins every time. Great video.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Trail Adventures USA absolutely brother. Cheers Dave 🍻

[@GH-cu9sn]

It’s a nice setup , but it’s still pricey for me as a person that doesn’t have that kind of money available compared to my tent I bought from under $1,700!

[@BlazingChicknMan]

What tent did you go with?

[@toooooobi]

Hi Edward, thanks for your reviews, very informative as always. I believe you may have missed a Pro for your viewers. Another advantage this has over the ikamper is that the ladder may be repositioned to side (s) or back. I caught that in the montage but you didn't mention it. Please verify if it's true. Thanks

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@g_money yes, it is true! Good eye! The Roofnest falcon comes with two ladder mounts you can configure any way you’d like

[@terrencewdonovan]

Thanks for review and insight. it did however look like the effort unclasp and open the Roofnest needed more strength. I don't think my wife or a lot of shorter companions would be able to do that step. The ikamper looks much easier. i do agree the ability to move the vehicle after deploying tent is a nice benefit. :)

[@thebigempty_5792]

Sheesh, that's about 7-8K empty sitting on the back of that truck.....Until I can figure out how to hoist or teach my mutt to climb a ladder, I''ll have to stick with my Gazelle T4 (orange one shown in the video) I love the Roofnests, but my buddy wants to be right next to me all the time LOL. Plus, with my Gazelle, I can put my cleanwaste toilet in there and I can stand up to change clothes and clean off. I do love your set up though!

[@BillFerriot]

I would have liked to see how it mounts to the vehicle.

[@davidnguyen1216]

After watching your video it helps me make my decision for a rtt four my tacoma. I was looking at ikamper xcover mini

[@tradetech7889]

Hi Edward, Do you have any concerns with the gas struts being on the outside of the module, exposed to all weather conditions being that they are a critical part in these roof tent designs ? Gas struts generally don't like being exposed to the elements over the longterm.

[@canyonoverland5003]

Funny. I just watched a KZbinr from the Vancouver area do a review of an iKamper from Big Tent Outdoors...

[@kildli]

I am trying to switch from yakima rtt to this tent for how simple it is to set up and pack. Also aluminum shell is huge plus.

[@joelclaus288]

IKamper also supports two small camp chairs and still two full-sized sleeping bags. Way more room. I'm biased because I'm going to use my IKamper until it totally pooches on me :)

[@crochetingaroundnewzealand]

Hi. Do you mean you can leave the bedding inside when it's closed up?

[@potatomonster7]

I’ll be interested to see how you fare with a baby in this. We have two young kids and I’m trying to figure out what setup will work. Great video. This has made me forget the ikamper!

[@katelynshin2383]

Your voice is very relaxing 🥰

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Katelyn Fitz 😘

[@JasonSpencerPlank]

It looks like a burnt Pop-Tart that's been dolled up with the trim from a herse... Just kidding. 😉 Great video! (It's always a pleasure.) When you come back to iKamper, we'll all be here with open arms to accept you back in club! ...much love!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Haha thanks @jason_plank 😋

[@desertarmorcssales1877]

Very informative, nice review 👍 Nice tundra build well thought 💪Try our's next 😉

[@davidogan]

Very cool video. Very cool lifestyle you have. Cheers.

[@tacoinuadventures271]

Appreciate the video! This was very useful to see the comparisons!

[@juliantaylor9585]

I’m sorry Edward but for me you haven’t won the argument. I think the iKamper looks better. I understand the garage roof issue and you had to change. I hope the iKamper will fit my garage. I do appreciate your videos 👍

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@julian_taylor to each they’re own 👍

[@Araris]

35 second set-up. Pretty awesome.

[@jimmyboy163]

Great video!! Do you know of any clam shells that can be accessed thru the floor (instead of the ladder on the outside?) Thanks

[@tundraspecialops]

Been waiting to hear your views on the new RTT

[@myfalconry76]

You would think with the price of roofnest products they would have the black out canvas. You get a lot of light through that.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Nice set up, Edward. I love how "thin" this RTT is vs other tents. Deploying it is quick and easy. The one item that scares the crap out of me is that menacing looking shovel...lol. Your Tundra is badass!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Alexander Weaver haha it’s a great shovel (kraxy beaver) 👍

[@rustyharvey3481]

Answered all my questions too wow great vid I like you have a pick up not a jeep & this is exactly what I am looking for....

[@wheelingincooverland]

What do you use as a heater during winter? I'm thinking of using a jackery power supply with a space ceramic heater.

[@hs0zcw]

A ladder on the side takes up a second parking spot parallel to your vehicle. The rear entry ladder may save a second parking spot.

[@quanglam4580]

The ikamper looks heaps better, but on the other hand its good you can mount other stuff to this new RTT like awings and solar panels etc its still good i guess, but i reckon this tent is good for couples that do more hardcore offroading and like fast setups, and ikamper is good for a family and more on the mild touring side, both great imo.....Keep up the great work mate from Australia. represent 😉

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Quang Lam all great points! Cheers

[@ccwstraightshooter9761]

Overall, it can’t be faster than ikamper. After setup you have to put all your bedding into the clamshell then inflated the mattress. Then you have to pull all your stuff out and deflate the mattress. Overall it takes way more time. Also if you had the ikamper you could buy the Hest mattress and it’s the most comfortable mattress on the market and don’t require air inflation. It also blows away that Exped in comfort. Even the ikamper X-Cover is faster to setup than having to put all your bedding inside and inflate/deflate.

[@GentiluomoStraniero]

Very good video Edward! Thanks for sharing!

[@devanhammack695]

This is llthe video I needed to see today..

[@brandontarvin5398]

This roof tent looks awesome, I'm looking into getting a roof tent for my 2019 4x2 Toyota Tacoma. Would you tell me or do you have a video on what type of bed rack you have installed on your truck to house the roof tent?

[@soulsurfer8797]

Switched from a Tepui softshell to an AluCab and love it! As always even your content and thanks for sharing. I personally believe clamshells are the only way to go moving forward. Great insight on driving the rig around too. 😎. #tentprotip! Never thought about that.

[@supergoobergirlable]

Clam shell doesn't give good rain protection

[@soulsurfer8797]

@@supergoobergirlable odd you say that as tons of Aussie’s and South African’s used them while I was in those countries. Plus, I have used them extensively since I found a place to but one in the states about 6-7 years ago. Are you pairing your clamshell with a rain fly on all sides?

[@frosty6910]

This is great thanks! Separately, do you have advice as to what you’ve found to be a great truck and model (experience around quality) to accommodate the RoofNest? What rack system (brand) do you have (as shown in this video)?

[@f.f.6413]

Thanks for the review. It was very informative and answers some of the questions I had.

[@RolandoNispiros]

That's one sweet RTT Ed! Good review!

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Thanks @rolando_nispiros !

[@RolandoNispiros]

Edward Shin yup a good switch!

[@dougg8280]

What size Megamat did you go with? Your link points to the medium which is 40 inches wide. There is a wide whick is 52 inches. The tent is 58 inches wide. Your matress appeared to fit perfectly.

[@TheOnlyOneStanding8079]

I like both on a truck 😎👍but the roof nest seems better

[@theresabass685]

Well Shinn: you know what I'm gonna say, the IKamper is nice real nice. I haven't experienced any condensation yet. So I'll probably invest in those pads for that purpose. Your review however is important to you and your family's comfort. I appreciate you pointing things out that I didn't know like the pads for the floor. Your setup is not much different then IKamper both need tug and pull methods to close. Thanks for the review got something out of this one.

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Theresa Bass there’s really no bad rtt, if it fits your camp style and you are able to enjoy nature 😉👍. The anti condensation mats will definitely help, especially on those cooler nights

[@paulmfti]

I have the same color truck and watch...with that being said...I like your channel...

[@owlman9297]

Deal breaker for me is unlike other rtts the bug mesh is on the inside.I like to open windows from the inside and still have the mesh in place to let in the light.with the roof nest you have to unzip the mesh to open the windows , may not be a big deal for some.really is a shame tho.

[@brianparsleyspeaker]

I am interesting in the rack system. You have a link for that?

[@ruston723]

My Kabari 23zero is really close to that one I do like how dark the inside is on my Kabari

[@tannenherz]

High E., it looks very comfortable to open. Kindly Fiete

[@danchamp7938]

Great video Ed, honest opinion though, I think you guys will miss the additional room in the iKamper once your new family addition shows up. I’m sure by then you’ll have something new in the works though! 😉

[@KrokemOutdoors]

Dan Champ we’ll have to see. But we also do have an annex room that is quite spacious 😉. How are you enjoying yours? We gotta hit a camp soon

[@jorgejelicic8525]

excellent analysis

[@jamesdenton4517]

Can you tell what brand of rack you have on your truck and what the specs are? I have the Yakima Outpost HD and want to get the Roof Nest Falcon XL and want to make sure the truck can handle the tent and the paxs. Thanks.

[@rafiesabarshah7560]

Awesome stuff. Just thinking what kind of attachment rack you installed to the truck for the roof tent? Thks

[@KrokemOutdoors]

on the truck roof is a Frontrunner outfitters slimline rack, and on the bed is the Leitner Designs bedrack

[@naturheilkunde-kanal9814]

Can I put the IKamper or your new Roofnest Falcon XL on the hardtop of a Toyota Hilux? Where do I get the kind of setup in the back of the car?

[@KL00100]

The icamper is a great pop up tent. An I’m looking to see the reviews on the new tent.

[@henrikm4657]

@Edward, I'm curious if you are still using this tent 2 years later, and if so, would you consider doing a follow-up review? I'm about to replace my Tuff Stuff tent (Skycamp knock-off) with a clam shell version. I love the GFC RTT, but it's only 50" wide inside, and that's a showstopper for me unfortunately. And now iKamper is coming out with their clam shell version (Blue Dot), which has a bit more room than the GFC, but it's not out yet (shipping in November for the assembled version). I'm looking at the RoofNest Falcon 2 XL, and it has more room than both the GFC RTT and the iKamper Blue Dot Duo, but it's manufactured overseas, and I'm not too keen on supporting that business model. I'd love to buy something US made, but GFC is the only company of the three that manufactures them here in the US, and unfortunately they don't make one in the size I need.

[@schkibz]

I’m sure you’ve covered it, but can you tell me or point me to your video where you talk about keeping gear on top of your shelves in the bed and not worrying about theft. :)

[@KrokemOutdoors]

@sean_brody I only put things in my bed that I’m okay with losing. 😉👍

[@josemuniz2878]

That’s a great tent. But what are your thoughts on the James Baroud? I am thinking about getting one for my rig. I am just in the process of getting my rig built by the guys at wanderlust. Just waiting on my parts to show up. Thanks bro

[@katnhat7695]

For those that are wondering and asking... including myself... I think he says that he is using the Leitner bed rack.. (I had to spell it phonetically, and fortunately Google knew what I was looking for), but he doesn't say which one he is using. It's not listed in the details for the video, nor was I able to find a response to this question, which several people have asked, in the comments.

[@GaryGilgen]

I’ll definitely take more interior space over setup time. Does the iKamper ladder not detach at all?

[@Beatles123ful]

I personally prefer the ikamper design over the clamshell, because the footprint is much smaller and the clamshell is cramped on the narrow side which would bug me.

[@schmoab]

I want to carry a kayak, so this might be a good solution.

[@gevorgnazaryan8720]

Can you show details how you attached the awning to the rtt?

[@fstertercelthnu]

Great review. How do you like the rack? Been looking for something similar, and I think this may be the way I go.

[@joshwalther8838]

Hey man I am looking to set up my chevy colorado w potentially a falcon pro. I found a bed rack that looks similar to yours from RCI. I am wondering what it is you are using for the cover halfway up your liner and the drawers beneath? I am trying to find a solution for keeping my gear dry when I am driving through weather. Thanks!

[@tomilangthang5620]

Nice tent, I like it. Please provide rack info so I can buy them

[@-Thomas-Lothbrok]

Does that soft awning come off completely

[@fabienpics]

Hi, thank you for all this info very good.... one question, what cie are you r Bed Rack ... thank s

[@jayjohnson1581]

So i have been youtube stalking your channel and i cannot find the answer, so i decided to just reach out. First, I'll say thank you for posting so much information! my wife and i will be PCSing back to the states next year and have full intentions of starting our overlanding adventures with our daughter and dogs. so my question is, what is the pack that you hang from your tailgate and what is it used for? Thanks again!

[@blackwaterlotus8124]

I been waiting for this video

[@hittinpure1]

Edward love your vids! Great job… question Roof nest clam or CVT ? Which do you prefer ? Thank you! Steve

[@Rad_B_OLand]

I’ve seen solar panels mounted on an iKamper.

[@jonroth131]

So would it be even possible to keep the lower rack system and have the falcon xl hang off the rear instead of over the cab? Like the tent but wanted to keep a low rack system.

[@BozardsInAlaska]

Hi Edward! Not sure if you plan to keep this with your Rebel but do you think you can comfortably sleep 2 adults and a 7 yo? Or would the iKamper SkyCamp 2.0 be better for a family of 3?