Thule Approach 2 L Review (2026): Is this roof top Tent worth it?
Thule Approach 2 L review
Quick verdict: Best for couples or small families prioritizing interior comfort and quick campsite turnaround. The generous sleeping footprint, panoramic skylights, and under-3-minute softshell setup make it ideal for weekend getaways and extended comfort-focused trips.
- Our rating: 4.3 / 5
- Best for: Comfort-focused weekend overlanders and small families
- Capacity: 3-4 people
- Type: Soft-shell rooftop tent
- Price range: $3,600 USD
- Where to buy: Thule
At a glance: pros & cons
Pros
- Extremely fast setup and pack-down (under 3 minutes)
- Spacious interior with panoramic skylights and a 241 x 170 cm sleeping footprint
- Premium 6 cm dual-layer foam mattress with quilted cover for excellent sleep comfort
- Versatile 3-mode rainfly and integrated heating/AC port for year-round usability
Cons
- Heavy at 68 kg, requiring a robust roof rack setup and two-person installation
- Awning and protective walls sold separately, adding significant cost to the system
- Tall closed profile (28 cm) increases wind noise and fuel consumption compared to low-profile hardshells
Key specs overview
| Feature | Thule Approach 2 L |
|---|---|
| Type | Soft-shell |
| Sleeping capacity | 3-4 people |
| Weight | 68 kg |
| Closed dimensions | 124 x 183 x 28 cm |
| Open dimensions | 244 x 183 x 102 cm |
| Mattress | 6 cm dual-layer foam with quilted cover |
| Shell / fabric | Welded aluminum base, 600D recycled polyester ripstop canopy |
| Waterproof rating | 4.0 / 5 |
| Season rating | 4-seasons |
| Setup time | ~3 minutes |
| Mounting system | Lockable crossbar T-brackets with torque-limiting tool |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime (Thule Guarantee) |
| Approx. price | $3,600 USD |
Comfort and interior space
Sleeping comfort
- Mattress feel: Medium, plush yet supportive.
- Support: Even weight distribution suitable for side or back sleepers up to 190 cm / 95 kg.
- Condensation handling: Ventilated via mesh panels & skylights (strategic cross-breeze airflow significantly reduces moisture buildup in humid conditions).
Interior volume and ergonomics
- Headroom: Peak height allows comfortable sitting for adults up to 180 cm near the center.
- Layout: Angled entry, 4 interior mesh pockets, panoramic skylights, and integrated climate port.
- Family use: Ideal for 2 adults and a child, slightly tight for 4 adults.
If comfort is your top priority, you may also want to compare it with Thule Approach 2 M and Thule Outset.
Setup, installation, and everyday use
Installation on the car
- Compatibility: Works with Crossbars (requires 31 in / 79 cm min spread) supporting up to 73 kg dynamic load.
- Installation difficulty: 2 people required, ~45 minutes for first install.
- Instructions and hardware: Clear multi-language PDFs, video tutorials, and included torque-limiting wrench ensure safe, straightforward mounting.
Daily setup and pack-down
- Setup time: From parked to ready-to-sleep in ~3 minutes.
- Pack-down time: About 5 minutes with practice.
Consider whether you often arrive at camp in the dark or bad weather; quicker tents can make a big difference on the road.
Weather resistance and durability
Performance in wind and rain
- Wind stability: Stable in moderate winds, minor canopy flap above 80 km/h.
- Waterproofing: Fabric rated at 4.0/5 (tested in Thule’s industrial rain chamber with heavy downpour simulation).
- Snow and cold: Handles snow well thanks to insulated base and heater port compatibility.
Materials and long-term durability
- Shell and hinges: Welded aluminum frame resists warping and handles long-term sun exposure.
- Fabric, zippers, and stitching: 600D ripstop fabric, reinforced stress points, and heavy-duty zippers resist wear and UV fading.
- Ladder: Wide angled steps offer secure footing with minimal flex under full adult weight.
If you plan extended trips or leave the tent permanently on your roof, durability is critical; this model is highly durable, trail-proven construction.
Aerodynamics, noise, and fuel consumption
- On-road noise: Noticeable wind hum above 90 km/h, but not intrusive below highway cruise speeds.
- Impact on fuel consumption: Approximate increase of 1.8 L/100km to expect on your vehicle.
- Height and clearance: Adds 28 cm to vehicle height (without counting the bars).
- Max speed: It is recommended not to drive faster than 110km/h with the roof tent installed.
Storage, packing, and living with it
- Interior storage when closed: Bedding must be removed; no internal storage space when packed.
- Covers and straps: Heavy-duty travel cover with secure zippers and adjustable tension straps.
- Off-season storage: Store dry indoors or in a breathable tent bag to prevent mildew and UV damage.
Who is the Thule Approach 2 L best for?
The Thule Approach 2 L rooftop tent is ideal if:
- You are a comfort-seeking weekend campers.
- You value fast pitch time, roomy interior, and premium sleep quality.
- Your vehicle is mid-size SUV or overland truck with 75+ kg roof dynamic load.
You should probably look elsewhere if:
- you need a spacious 4-adult family layout regularly (e.g. you need a true 4-person family tent).
- your vehicle’s dynamic roof rating falls below 75 kg (e.g. your car’s roof load rating is limited).
Alternatives to consider
If the Thule Approach 2 L is not a perfect fit, here are solid alternatives:
| Rooftop tent | Why consider it instead | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Thule Approach 2 M | lighter and more compact for smaller vehicles and solo/couple trips | View price |
| iKamper Skycamp 3.0 | hardshell design offers better aerodynamics, faster setup, and true 4-person capacity | View price |
| Thule Outset | hard-shell entry point with lower aerodynamic drag and simpler mounting | View price |
Use these alternatives to cross-compare weight, price, and features, and choose the tent that fits your trips and your vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
Will the Thule Approach 2 L fit my car?
In general, it fits vehicles with:
- A roof load rating of at least 73 kg (check your manufacturer’s manual).
- Compatible roof racks (Crossbars (requires 31 in / 79 cm min spread)).
When in doubt, ask the retailer with your exact vehicle model.
Can I leave the tent on my car all year?
Technically yes, but consider:
- Increased fuel consumption and wind noise.
- UV and weather exposure reducing fabric lifespan.
- Local regulations and insurance conditions.
How long does it take to learn setup and pack-down?
Most users are comfortable after 2 to 3 trips; expect setup in under 2.5 minutes with practice.
Final verdict: should you buy the Thule Approach 2 L?
If you are looking for basecamp-style weekend trips and your vehicle can support it, the Thule Approach 2 L is a premium, spacious softshell choice rooftop tent.
- Strong points: Rapid deployment, generous living space, high-comfort mattress, and versatile weather protection.
- Weak points: Heavy closed height increases drag, requires high roof-load capacity, and essential awnings cost extra.
👉 Ready to hit the road?
Check the latest price and availability for the Thule Approach 2 L here.
Internal links
- Best rooftop tents for comfort-focused camping
- Rooftop tent buying guide
- How to choose a roof rack for your tent
Review videos
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