Starting with a 2016 JK with a soft top, the first challenge was finding a new top or rack setup that could support either cargo or a roof top tent. After quite a bit of research I found Bulldawg Manufacturing, which makes one-piece hardtops with a substantial load capacity which worked perfect for me.
Jeep Wrangler with the soft top
I decided it would be quite a bit more comfortable to get a roof tent than to car camp, and I'm glad I went that route for the trip. iKamper was the only company which makes a hard shell roof top tent that can fit on the short wheelbase profile of a 2-door Jeep Wrangler, so the decision was easy, and it worked great throughout the trip.
Jeep Wrangler with Hard top and roof top tent
Yes, the roof top tent is on backwards here which we later fixed. Why do things once when you can do them twice?
An empty Jeep
I mounted a hard shell ski tube to the back, which was the only place left after adding the tent and awning setup. It worked great to slide the tube open and access the skis. The tow strap might look insecure, but it was only used to prevent any rattling since the ski tube could wobble with the way it was attached. We were also able to drill a folding table into the tailgate of the Jeep, which was hugely helpful for cooking camp dinners.
A full Jeep
The nature of having just moved meant I had extra stuff lying around that I felt was better with me than in storage. I could have brought 1/10th of what's pictured here and still been fine, so next time I will definitely be packing lighter. However, the Max Trax hanging on the tire were well worth it and saved me time, stress, and money when I got stuck on a number of occasions, and I now bring them on any off-roading trips.
Jeep setup, closed
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