How to Install a Sportz SUV Tent with Screen Room

Quick Answer

To install your Sportz SUV Tent with Screen Room, start by parking your SUV and laying out the footprint, then attach the tent sleeve to your liftgate, extend the tent frame, and secure the screen room. Follow the steps below for a smooth setup.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Choose Your Campsite and Park Your SUV: Select a flat, level spot clear of rocks and debris. Park your SUV with the rear facing the campsite, leaving enough room behind the vehicle for the tent and screen room. Engage the parking brake. Check that the ground is level side-to-side, not just front-to-back, to prevent the tent from leaning.
2. Lay Out the Footprint: Unfold the custom footprint and place it on the ground directly behind your SUV's liftgate, aligning it with the vehicle's rear. Smooth out any wrinkles and stake down the corners to keep it from shifting. Make sure the footprint is centered and fully flat—wrinkles can cause water pooling under the tent floor.
3. Attach the Tent Sleeve to Your Liftgate: Open the liftgate and slide the detachable sleeve over the top edge of the open hatch. Adjust the sleeve so it sits evenly across the opening. The sleeve connects the tent to your vehicle and allows easy access. Ensure the sleeve is snug but not overstretched—too loose can let in drafts, too tight may stress the fabric.
4. Unfold and Extend the Tent Frame: With the sleeve attached, unfold the tent body away from the vehicle. Extend the poles until they lock into place. The tent should form a tunnel shape from the liftgate to the rear of the footprint. Check that all pole sections are fully seated in their connectors—partial extension weakens the structure in wind.
5. Secure the Tent Body to the Footprint: Align the tent floor with the footprint underneath. Use the provided stakes and guylines to anchor the tent corners and side loops. Start with the two rear corners, then work forward toward the vehicle. Drive stakes at a 45-degree angle away from the tent for maximum holding power, especially in soft ground.
6. Set Up the Screen Room: The screen room attaches to the front of the main tent. Unfold it, extend its poles, and stake down the corners. Zip the screen room to the main tent connector. The bug-free mesh lets you enjoy fresh air without insects. Close all screen zippers fully before staking to avoid sagging mesh that can create gaps for bugs.
7. Adjust Tension and Final Checks: Tighten all guylines and adjust pole tension so the fabric is taut but not strained. Walk around the entire setup, checking that the sleeve is secure, zippers close smoothly, and the footprint is fully covered by the tent floor. Re-tension after the first hour—fabric relaxes as it warms up, and a quick adjustment prevents flapping in the breeze.

Product Features You'll Use in This Setup

• Sportz SUV Tent with Screen Room & Footprint Bundle: The Sportz SUV Tent with Screen Room and Footprint Bundle includes a roomy tent, bug-free screen room, and custom footprint for extra protection. The footprint protects the tent floor from sharp objects and moisture, and the screen room gives you a comfortable, insect-free area to relax or store gear.