DT Adventure Extreme V2 – Fastest Hard Shell Tent We’ve Tested

Why we tested the V2

We spend a lot of weekends chasing trails, so we’re picky about tents. The DT Adventure Extreme V2 promises a glossy shiny black hard shell, one-minute setup, and a proper winter liner. We mounted it to a platform rack and lived with it for several trips to see if it’s really the fastest hard shell rooftop tent you can buy.

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Setup speed: stopwatch results

With the gas strut lift, deployment took us 45–55 seconds consistently, including ladder lock-in. Pack-down averaged 90 seconds with bedding inside. In windy conditions the shell still closed cleanly thanks to the improved hinge reinforcement on the V2.

• Deployment: ~50 s (solo)
• Pack-down: ~90 s (solo, with bedding)
• Wind handling: stable when positioned nose-to-wind

Verdict: The V2 is the fastest we’ve tested in its class, especially when you keep bedding inside the shell.

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Comfort & winter performance

The 6 cm high-density mattress is firmer than most budget RTTs and stayed supportive on cold nights. The thermal liner made the biggest difference below 0 °C: less condensation and a noticeable bump in warmth. Mesh windows and a crack of cross-ventilation kept things fresh in wet weather.

• Mattress: 6 cm, 38 kg/m³ density (removable cover)
• Thermal liner: cut drafts, reduced condensation in damp UK nights
• Lighting: built-in LED strip + portable solar lamp in the pack

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Annex room: worth it?

We tried the right-side annex on two trips. It’s quick to zip on and turns the setup into a mini-basecamp. If you camp with dogs, want a private changing area or need extra storage out of the rain, it’s a strong add-on. In high winds, stake the lower skirt and use guy lines for best stability.

See the tent & annex options →

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Pros & cons after 1,000+ miles

• Pros: class-leading setup speed; warm in winter with liner; sleek shiny black shell; solid ladder & hinges; annex expands living space.
• Cons: ~70 kg means two-person lift to install; needs three quality crossbars; glossy shell shows dust (wipe-down fixes it).

Buy the DT Adventure Extreme V2

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Quick quiz: is the V2 right for you?

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FAQs

How fast is setup, really?
Our average was 45–55 seconds solo to open, ~90 seconds to close with bedding inside.

Is the shell truly waterproof?
Yes – the hard shell is sealed and the canvas is PU 2000 mm rated; we stayed dry in heavy rain.

Does the annex come in the box?
No – it’s an optional add-on (right-side) and can be added later without tools.

How many roof bars do I need?
Three quality crossbars minimum, dynamic rating ≥ 75 kg. Platform racks work best.

Winter camping?
The thermal liner is the standout – warmer nights and far less condensation.

Will it fit my vehicle?
Yes, as long as your roof system meets the load rating. Unsure? Contact us and we’ll advise.

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