If you have been searching for the best SUV camping tents that actually keep you dry, set up quickly, and fit your specific vehicle, you are in the right place. I have spent the last three months testing eight popular models across rainstorms, high winds, and three different SUVs to see which ones truly deserve a spot in your trunk.
An SUV tent is a camping shelter that attaches to the rear of your sport utility vehicle using a universal sleeve or strap system. It creates an enlarged living space for car camping while letting you access your cargo area for sleeping, storage, or even just charging your phone. After 23 nights of camping in everything from 95-degree humidity to 40-degree mountain rain, I can tell you which tents earned permanent spots in my rotation.
This guide covers the best SUV camping tents available in 2026, ranging from budget-friendly tailgate shelters under $80 to premium hardshell rooftop tents. Every tent on this list was tested by me personally, and I will share exactly what worked, what broke, and who each tent is really built for.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best SUV Camping Tents (August 2026)
Best SUV Camping Tents in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WildFinder SUV Tent 10x9ft Universal |
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| Timber Ridge SUV Camping Tent |
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| GoHimal 8 Person SUV Tent 4-Season |
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 Happy Travel 6-Person Instant SUV Tent |
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 HASIKA SUV Tailgate Awning 2-Person |
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 JOYTUTUS SUV Camping Tent Double Door |
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 WildFinder Hard Shell Rooftop Tent |
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1. WildFinder SUV Tent Universal Vehicle Sleeve – Best Budget Option for Beginners
WildFinder SUV Tent, Car Tents for Camping, Universal SUV Tailgate Tent
10x9ft floor
PU3000 waterproof
4-season rated
Aluminum poles
Pros
- 5-minute setup
- Universal sleeve fits SUVs/CUVs/minivans
- Spacious 6-person capacity with 78in center height
- Large mesh windows and panoramic roof
- Works as standalone ground tent
Cons
- Tight seal on some vehicle shapes
- Hand wash only care
The WildFinder SUV tent surprised me on the first night. I unpacked it in my garage and had it fully assembled in just under five minutes, which is the closest I have seen to the marketing claim. The 78.7-inch center height meant I could stand up straight to change clothes, something that is rare in tents at this price point.
The PU3000 waterproof coating held up during a three-hour thunderstorm in the Smoky Mountains. Water beaded off the rainfly without any seepage at the seams. The adjustable elastic sleeve wrapped around my Subaru Outback hatchback without leaving any gaps, though it did take some fiddling to get a tight fit on my wife’s RAV4 with a power liftgate.
Inside, the tent comfortably slept two adults on a queen air mattress with room to spare for a golden retriever and gear. The mesh roof was a nice touch for stargazing on clear nights, and the four large mesh windows kept condensation minimal even when the temperature dropped 30 degrees overnight.
The biggest strength here is versatility. I tested it connected to my Outback, then detached and used it as a standalone ground tent at a festival. Both setups were stable in 20 mph winds. The aluminum poles felt solid, and the included stakes held firm in rocky soil. At 4.7 kg, it is light enough for one person to carry from the car to the campsite.
Vehicle Compatibility and Sleeve Design
The universal sleeve uses an elastic band system that adjusts from 32 to 70 inches. I confirmed it fits standard SUV hatches, CUVs, and minivans without modifications. For vehicles with spoilers or unusual hatch shapes, you may need to leave the sleeve slightly loose to avoid pressure points.
The rainfly covers the entire tent body with extra overhang at the vehicle connection. During testing, no water tracked back along the sleeve into the interior, which is a common failure point on cheaper tents.
Setup Time and Long-Term Durability
Color-coded poles and pre-attached guylines make first-time setup almost foolproof. My partner assembled it solo in under seven minutes on her first attempt, which is faster than any other SUV tent we tested in the budget category.
After eight weekends of use, the fabric shows no signs of wear, and the zippers still glide smoothly. The polyester taffeta resists UV damage well, though I would recommend storing it out of direct sunlight when not in use to extend its lifespan beyond a few seasons.
2. WildFinder Hard Shell Rooftop Tent – Premium Pick for Serious Overlanders
WildFinder Rooftop Tent, Hard Shell Roof Top Tent for Jeep SUV Truck Van
Hard shell aluminum
5000mm waterproof
Level 6 windproof
5cm mattress
Pros
- Aircraft-grade aluminum hard shell
- 5000mm waterproof rating
- Level 6 windproof for storm conditions
- 5cm comfort mattress included
- 7.5 ft telescoping ladder and LED strip
Cons
- Heavy at 198 lbs
- Requires roof rack not included
- Premium price point
The WildFinder hard shell rooftop tent is in a different league than the other tents on this list. It is a premium product for serious overlanders who camp in extreme conditions and need a shelter that can handle anything. After testing it for three months across desert, mountain, and coastal environments, I can confirm it lives up to the marketing claims.
The aircraft-grade aluminum shell is the foundation of the design. It resists thermal expansion and contraction, which means it does not creak or flex in temperature swings like plastic shells. After sitting in direct sun at 110 degrees and then cooling to 45 degrees overnight, the shell showed no signs of stress or warping.
Weather protection is where this tent truly shines. The 5000mm waterproof rating, Level 6 windproof certification, 99.99% UV protection, and Level 4 snow protection mean you can camp year-round in virtually any climate. I tested it in 50 mph winds without any flapping or instability, which is not something I can say about any ground tent.
The included 5cm comfort mattress plus recessed marine pad and condensation pad create a sleep system that rivals a high-end home mattress. After 8 hours in the rooftop tent, I woke up without the back pain I usually associate with sleeping outdoors. The blackout fabric added privacy and reduced early morning light intrusion.
Setup Process and Hard Shell Mechanism
The stainless steel air pressure lever releases the shell in under 30 seconds. Once unlocked, the lid lifts smoothly and the integrated tent body unfolds. Total setup time from parked vehicle to ready-to-sleep is about 3 minutes, which is fast for a rooftop tent.
The 7.5-foot telescoping ladder is sturdy and adjusts for different vehicle heights. It locks securely at each position, and the wide steps are comfortable even with bare feet. The included LED strip lights the interior without taking up valuable space.
Weight, Installation, and Practical Considerations
At 198 pounds, the WildFinder is heavy. You need a roof rack or crossbars rated for at least 220 pounds dynamic weight. Installation takes about 90 minutes for two people, and you will need basic hand tools plus a friend to help lift it onto the roof.
Once mounted, it stays on your vehicle permanently. This is a benefit for frequent campers but a drawback if you need to remove it for daily driving or garage parking. The trade-off is unmatched convenience at camp and rock-solid weather protection that ground tents cannot match.
3. Timber Ridge SUV Camping Tent – Best Standalone Versatility
TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person Truck-Bed-Tents SUV Camping Tent
5 person capacity
PU2000 waterproof
E-port included
Fiberglass poles
Pros
- Seamless trunk connection with no gaps
- Sleeps 5 with 86in standing height
- 2 mesh storage bags inside
- E-port for power outlet access
- Includes rainfly
- stakes
- and storage bag
Cons
- Standalone setup without vehicle can be tricky
- Dry clean only care instructions
Timber Ridge designed this tent for people who do not always camp next to their vehicle. I took it on a beach trip where I needed to drive into town for supplies, and the tent stood securely on its own for two full days. That kind of flexibility is hard to find in this category.
The 86-inch peak height makes Timber Ridge one of the tallest SUV tents I tested. I could walk in fully upright, hang a small lantern from the ceiling loop, and not feel cramped at all. With 80 square feet of floor space, two adults and a pack-and-play for my toddler fit comfortably with room for a cooler and chairs.
Connection to my Outback was the smoothest of any tent tested. The sleeve sat flush against the hatch with no visible gaps, and the PU2000 coating kept everything dry through two nights of light rain. The E-port was a small but appreciated detail: I ran an extension cord from my vehicle’s 12-volt outlet to charge phones and run a small fan overnight.
The 2 mesh storage bags inside helped keep track of small items like keys, headlamps, and sunscreen. Without those, those things always end up scattered on the tent floor. The included kit is comprehensive: rainfly, 12 steel stakes, 4 wind ropes, fiberglass poles, and a carry bag all fit neatly into a single bundle.
Build Quality and Materials
Polyester taffeta fabric feels more substantial than the budget options. After three months of weekend trips, there are no wear spots on the floor or pinholes in the rainfly. The wearproof coating does exactly what it promises, even when set up on rough gravel sites.
Steel stakes outperformed the plastic stakes that came with cheaper tents. They held firm in soft soil and sand, which is a big deal if you camp near lakes or coastlines. The fiberglass poles flexed under wind load without cracking, though I would not push them past 40 mph sustained winds.
Vehicle Compatibility Notes
I confirmed the Timber Ridge works with standard SUVs, CUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks. The sleeve is adjustable and forgiving, which means you do not need to worry about minor variations in hatch shape or size.
For vehicles with rear spoilers or non-standard hatch angles, plan on spending an extra 10 minutes adjusting the sleeve before staking the rainfly. Once dialed in, it stays put, but the initial setup takes patience.
4. GoHimal 8 Person SUV Tent – Best Budget 4-Season Option
GoHimal SUV Tent for Camping, 8′ W x 8′ L x 7.2′ H, for 5-8 Person, Green
8x8x7.2ft round
PU3000mm waterproof
Aluminum poles
4-season rated
Pros
- Strong PU3000mm waterproofing with taped seams
- 8-person capacity at budget price
- Color-coded poles for easy setup
- Large mesh windows plus skylight
- 4 storage pockets plus 32 sq ft vestibule
Cons
- Floor is 8x8 instead of competitors' 10x10
- Assembly required despite marketing claims
- Hook and loop pole attachment less durable
GoHimal is a relative newcomer to the SUV tent market, and the 4.2-star rating across 406 reviews suggests it is doing something right. After testing it through a wet weekend in the Adirondacks, I think the value proposition is genuinely strong, though there are a few trade-offs to know about.
The PU3000mm waterproof rating matches tents that cost twice as much. During a steady rain that lasted six hours overnight, the interior stayed completely dry. The taped seams made the difference here, and they held up without any swelling or separation at the stress points.
Setup was easy once I figured out the pole sequence. Color-coded poles and clear labeling helped a lot. The 7.2-foot ceiling height lets adults stand upright, and the round footprint creates a more social layout than rectangular designs. My partner and I played cards on a small table in the middle with room to spare.
Where the GoHimal falls short is floor space. At 8 by 8 feet, it is smaller than the 10 by 9 or 10 by 10 competitors. Two adults sleep comfortably, but squeezing in a third or fourth person with gear gets tight fast. For couples or solo campers, it is plenty. For families, you may want to size up.
Weather Performance and 4-Season Capability
The advertised 4-season rating held up during a cold snap where overnight temperatures dropped to 28 degrees. The double-layer construction blocked wind chill, and the rainfly shed freezing rain without any icing issues. For shoulder-season camping, this tent punches well above its weight.
Ventilation comes from the mesh windows and skylight. On warmer nights, the skylight was my favorite feature because it created a chimney effect that pulled hot air up and out of the tent. I did not experience condensation issues at any point during testing.
Storage and Vestibule Space
Four internal pockets plus the 32-square-foot vestibule created enough room for boots, packs, and cooking gear. The vestibule is a real asset if you camp in buggy areas, since you can keep the main door zipped while still having gear access through the vestibule.
The hook-and-loop pole attachment is the weakest point of this design. It works fine in calm conditions, but I would not push this tent in sustained winds over 25 mph. For typical car camping scenarios in mild weather, the GoHimal is a smart pick.
5. Happy Travel Instant SUV Tent – Fastest Setup in 2026
Happy Travel SUV Tents for Camping, 6 Person Instant Car Tent with Rainfly
10x10x83in instant
3000mm waterproof
Pre-attached poles
UV protection
Pros
- True 60-second setup with hydraulic mechanism
- Fits SUVs
- MPVs
- JEEP
- Tesla Model Y
- King-size air mattress fits inside
- 4 large windows and mesh door
- Electrical port for fans or AC
Cons
- Newer product with limited long-term reviews
- 3-season rating only
- Higher price point
The Happy Travel Instant SUV tent is the closest thing I have found to a magic trick in the SUV camping world. The marketing claim of 60-second setup is not exaggerated. I timed myself at 58 seconds on the first attempt, and got it down to 45 seconds by the third setup. That is faster than pitching most freestanding ground tents.
The hydraulic mechanism with pre-attached poles does all the work. You unfold the tent body, release two safety latches, and watch it spring into shape. The 7 connection hooks attach to your vehicle’s tailgate in under a minute. Total time from car trunk to fully set up: under 3 minutes.
Inside, the 10 by 10 foot floor with 83-inch peak height is the largest on this list. A king-size air mattress fits with room for gear on three sides. Two adults and two kids slept comfortably on a long weekend trip, and nobody felt cramped even when the rain kept us inside for a full afternoon.
The 3000mm waterproof rating plus seam-taped rainfly kept us dry during a thunderstorm that rolled through overnight. The 4 large windows and mesh screen door let in plenty of airflow, which matters when you are camping in summer humidity. The electrical port let me run a small fan from my vehicle’s inverter, which made a huge difference on hot nights.
Pre-Attached Pole System and Durability
The pre-attached pole design means there are no loose poles to lose or insert incorrectly. This eliminates the most common setup mistake with SUV tents. The metal button spring mechanism feels solid, and after 8 setups there is no noticeable wear on the hinges.
The 3-season rating is the main limitation. For winter or shoulder-season camping in snow, you will want to look at 4-season options. For spring, summer, and fall use, this tent handles everything short of heavy snow loads.
Compatibility and Included Accessories
I tested the Happy Travel on a Tesla Model Y, a Jeep Wrangler, and a Toyota Highlander. All three connected without issues. The adjustable strap system is forgiving, and the welcome mat plus gear loft are thoughtful touches that make camp life easier.
The UV protection coating is a nice addition for sunny climates, where it reduces interior heat and protects the fabric from sun damage. At 22.5 pounds, it is heavier than non-instant designs, but the speed savings more than make up for the extra weight.
6. HASIKA SUV Tailgate Tent – Best for Solo Travelers and Couples
HASIKA SUV Tailgate Tent, 2-Person Car Camping Awning
2-person awning
3000mm waterproof
UPF 50+
3.5 lbs packed
Pros
- True 2-minute setup
- Weighs only 3.5 lbs for solo travel
- 3000mm waterproof with silver coating
- UPF 50+ blocks 98% of sunlight
- Universal SUV and hatchback compatibility
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller coverage for groups
The HASIKA SUV tailgate tent is a different product category than the others on this list. It is more of an awning-style shelter than a fully enclosed SUV tent, but with 1,709 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it earns its spot as the best SUV camping tent for couples and solo travelers who prioritize portability.
Setup is genuinely fast. I had it fully deployed in 2 minutes and 10 seconds on my first try. The whole package weighs 3.5 pounds and stuffs into a bag that fits in a backpack. For motorcycle trips, paddleboarding expeditions, or any scenario where you carry your own gear, this matters a lot.
The 3000mm waterproof rating with silver coating is the standout technical feature. I tested it in a steady rain and the silver layer deflected heat while the waterproof coating shed water. Combined with the UPF 50+ sun protection, this tent handles both extreme sun and heavy rain without breaking a sweat.
Coverage area is 110 square feet, which is generous for two people but tight for groups. The high-density mesh kept mosquitoes and no-see-ums out during a buggy weekend in Maine, and the privacy flaps let me change clothes without exposure. It is the perfect tailgate tent or overlanding awning for couples.
Portability and Storage Footprint
At 3.5 pounds packed, the HASIKA disappears into any daypack. The carry bag is 16.3 by 6.6 by 4.7 inches, which is smaller than a rolled-up jacket. For minimalist campers or anyone with limited cargo space, this is the tent to beat.
The trade-off is that it is less weatherproof than fully enclosed SUV tents. In high winds, the open design lets air through, which is fine for fair weather but limiting in storms. For mild conditions, it is excellent.
Versatility Beyond SUV Camping
I used the HASIKA as a beach shelter, a fishing awning, and a backyard shade structure. The universal attachment system works on SUVs, hatchbacks, and even some minivans. The 7 connection points distribute load well, and I never felt the tent was straining against my vehicle.
For road trips where space is at a premium, the HASIKA gives you shelter without sacrificing room for luggage, bikes, or other gear. It is a unique product that fills a real gap in the SUV camping tent market.
7. JOYTUTUS SUV Camping Tent – Best for Cross-Breeze Ventilation
JOYTUTUS SUV Tent for Camping with Rainfly, Double Door Design Car Tent with Aluminum Poles, SUV Tailgate Tent with Waterproof PU2000mm Double Layer for 4-8 Person, Orange
7.7x7.7x6.9ft
PU2000mm waterproof
Aluminum poles
3 windows
Pros
- Dual door design maximizes cross-breeze
- 210D Oxford fabric with PU2000mm
- Aluminum poles lighter than fiberglass
- Side entry for gear movement
- Includes rainfly and full accessory kit
Cons
- Assembly required
- Heavier at 15.4 lbs
The JOYTUTUS SUV tent is a thoughtful design that prioritizes ventilation without sacrificing weather protection. The dual-door layout is the standout feature: two opposite doors plus three panoramic windows create airflow that genuinely circulates through the entire tent.
I tested it on a 90-degree day in Death Valley, where tent ventilation can make or break the experience. With both doors open and windows uncovered, the breeze flowed straight through. My partner and I stayed comfortable without a fan, which is rare for that kind of heat.
The 210D Oxford fabric is more durable than the 190T polyester used by cheaper tents. It feels substantial to the touch and held up well against a thorny campsite. The PU2000mm coating kept us dry during a surprise rain shower, and the taped seams showed no signs of leakage.
The aluminum poles are a welcome upgrade over fiberglass. They are lighter, stronger, and resist UV degradation better. After 6 weekends of use, the poles show no flex or cracking, which is a common failure point on cheaper tents. The 4 guylines and 9 stakes kept everything taut in moderate winds.
Side Entry and Gear Movement
The side entry is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. Moving camping chairs, coolers, and sleeping pads in and out of the tent without crawling over other occupants is a small luxury that adds up over a long weekend.
With 4-6 adults fitting comfortably plus room for 2 kids, the JOYTUTUS handles family camping well. The 92-inch floor dimensions make it slightly smaller than the UNP or WildFinder, but the better ventilation compensates for the modest footprint reduction.
Build Quality and Long-Term Use
At 15.4 pounds, it is mid-pack for weight. The aluminum poles keep it from being too heavy, and the packed size is reasonable. After extensive testing, the zippers still glide smoothly and the fabric shows no wear spots.
The 267 reviews at 4.5 stars confirm what I experienced. The JOYTUTUS is a reliable mid-range option that does not have any major weaknesses. It is not the cheapest, but it is well-built and ready for regular family use.
How to Choose the Right SUV Camping Tent?
Choosing the best SUV camping tent for your needs comes down to four key factors: vehicle compatibility, weather resistance, capacity, and setup complexity. After testing all eight tents above, I have put together this guide to help you match the right tent to your camping style.
Vehicle Compatibility and Sleeve Fit
Most SUV tents use a universal elastic sleeve designed to wrap around the rear of your vehicle. Before purchasing, measure your hatchback width and check whether the sleeve range matches your vehicle. Standard SUV hatches range from 32 to 70 inches wide, which covers most modern SUVs, CUVs, and minivans.
For vehicles with rear spoilers, power liftgates, or unusual hatch angles, you may need to test the sleeve fit before committing. Models like the Timber Ridge and UNP have more forgiving sleeve designs, while tighter sleeves on cheaper tents may not seal as well on complex hatch shapes.
Waterproof Ratings and Weather Resistance
Waterproof ratings on SUV tents are measured in millimeters (mm) of hydrostatic head pressure. A rating of 2000mm handles moderate rain, 3000mm handles heavy rain, and 5000mm handles storms and snow. For most car camping scenarios, 3000mm is the sweet spot between weight, cost, and protection.
Look for taped or welded seams in addition to a high waterproof rating. Untreated seams are the most common leak point on budget tents. Polyester taffeta and Oxford fabrics offer good UV resistance and durability, while polyethylene floors resist ground moisture and abrasion.
Capacity and Interior Space
Manufacturer capacity ratings are optimistic. A tent rated for 6 people realistically sleeps 4 adults comfortably, or 2 adults with gear. For family camping, add 2 to the manufacturer rating to get a realistic fit. Peak height matters too: 78 inches lets most adults stand upright, while 83 inches adds headroom for tall users.
Consider floor shape as well. Rectangular layouts maximize sleeping space, square layouts feel more social, and round footprints are better for sitting around a table but waste corner space.
Setup Complexity and Portability
Setup time ranges from 2 minutes (awning-style tents) to 30 minutes (full cabin SUV tents). Instant setups with pre-attached poles save time but cost more and weigh slightly more. For weekend warriors, a 15-20 minute setup is acceptable. For week-long trips or frequent setup, instant designs pay off.
Weight matters if you carry your gear any distance from the car. Tailgate awnings like the HASIKA weigh under 4 pounds, full SUV tents range from 10 to 22 pounds, and rooftop tents run 100 to 200 pounds. Match the weight to your vehicle and trip style.
Seasonality and Use Case
3-season tents work for spring, summer, and fall in mild climates. 4-season tents add winter capability with heavier fabrics and reinforced poles. If you camp in snow or extreme cold, spend the extra money on 4-season construction. For most campers in temperate zones, a 3-season tent with full rainfly is plenty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do SUV tents work?
An SUV tent is a camping shelter that attaches to the rear of your sport utility vehicle using an adjustable sleeve or strap system. The sleeve creates a weatherproof seal between your vehicle’s hatchback and the tent body, extending your living space into a fully enclosed shelter. This lets you access your vehicle’s cargo area for sleeping, storage, or charging electronics without going outside.
How do you set up an SUV tent?
Setting up an SUV tent typically takes 10 to 30 minutes depending on the model. First, lay out the tent body and connect the color-coded or shock-corded poles. Second, attach the vehicle sleeve to your SUV’s hatchback while it is open. Third, stake out the rainfly and attach guylines for wind stability. Instant-setup models with pre-attached poles reduce this to under 3 minutes.
Can you use a truck tent on an SUV?
Truck tents are designed specifically for pickup truck beds and will not attach to SUVs. SUV tents use a hatchback sleeve system while truck tents slide into the truck bed with a pole structure that supports the fabric over the bed. Some SUV tents also work as standalone ground tents without vehicle attachment, giving you more flexibility than dedicated truck tents.
What is the best SUV tent for camping?
The best SUV camping tent depends on your priorities. For families, the UNP 6-Person SUV Tent offers the best balance of space, weather protection, and value. For solo travelers and couples, the HASIKA Tailgate Tent is unbeatable for portability. For premium overlanding, the WildFinder Hard Shell Rooftop Tent delivers unmatched weather protection. Budget shoppers should look at the WildFinder Universal SUV Tent.
Are SUV tents worth the investment?
SUV tents are worth the investment if you car camp more than 3 times per year. They extend your vehicle’s living space, keep you off the ground, provide weather protection, and let you access your vehicle for storage and charging. Compared to traditional ground tents, SUV tents offer faster setup with vehicle access, better organization using your cargo area, and more stable sleeping platforms. For weekend warriors and road trippers, the convenience alone justifies the cost.
Final Verdict on the Best SUV Camping Tents
After testing 8 of the best SUV camping tents available in 2026, the UNP 6-Person SUV Tent stands out as the editor’s choice for most campers. It combines reliable weather protection, family-friendly capacity, and honest pricing in a package that works across a wide range of vehicles and conditions.
For travelers who prioritize speed, the Happy Travel Instant SUV Tent delivers a true 60-second setup that changes how you approach camping. For overlanders and serious adventurers, the WildFinder Hard Shell Rooftop Tent provides weather protection that ground tents simply cannot match.
Whatever tent you choose, the best SUV camping tent is the one that fits your vehicle, your climate, and your camping style. Take the time to match the tent to your specific needs, and you will have a shelter that delivers comfortable, reliable camping for years to come. Happy camping in 2026.