RoofRoomer has introduced the Native200, a compact, roof-mounted living module designed to bring full-scale camping functionality to larger vehicles such as SUVs and vans. Developed with an emphasis on space efficiency and ease of use, the Native200 ostensibly presents an alternative to conventional tow-behind trailers by offering standing room, essential amenities, and mobility, but does this unique camper compromise a vehicle’s off-road capability or drivability? That is the $14,000 question and one that we cannot reliably answer without a comprehensive test. Since the Native200 is built in Austria and not available in the US, we can only speculate for now.
The Native200 is mounted directly onto a vehicle’s roof rack, utilizing a proprietary hitch-ball support mechanism for enhanced stability. This patented system allows the camper to be securely fastened and the weight dispersed between the hitch ball and the roof, compatible with a broad range of vehicles. The process involves leaning the unit onto the vehicle’s roof rack and securing it with clamps that have been tailored to fit most rack types. Once in place, the rear hitch component is fastened to the vehicle’s tow ball, with a safety screw completing the setup. The greatest drawback of this camper is arguably that a user will no longer have access to the rear door of the SUV, which means that everything loaded in the rear of the vehicle must be retrieved through the rear doors. That could get tiring quickly.
Additionally, the wet weight of the Native200, at 242.5 pounds dry, must be kept to an absolute minimum, given that the majority of the camper’s weight is spread between the roof rack and the tow hitch, with significant overhang behind the rear axle. With too much weight loaded, the Native200’s handling will undoubtedly be adversely affected, but this is an important caveat. The vehicle has been certified for use on European roads, is built in Serbia, and sold in Austria. The European certification process involves submitting designs to TÜV or an equivalent body, undergoing safety and emissions testing, inspection, and approval, and affixing a compliance plate for registration.
RoofRoomer positions the Native200 as an option for those who want the comfort of a micro-camper without the operational limitations of towing a trailer. While larger trailers often restrict access to rough terrain or tight urban environments, the Native200 is designed to maintain most of the maneuverability of the host vehicle, making it more appealing for overlanders and long-distance travelers who value a degree of agility and who pack light. Unlike rooftop tents, which often require external bathrooms or kitchen setups, the Native200 includes an enclosed space with a complete set of integrated features.
Inside the Native200, the base configuration features a 160 by 200-centimeter sleeping area, mosquito screens, blackout blinds, a complete set of bathroom fixtures, a shower mat, and a kitchenette equipped with a sink. Electrical needs are met through both 230-volt CEE hookup and 12-volt sockets, while integrated LED lighting ensures visibility and comfort after dark. Installation legs allow the entire unit to be removed and used independently of the vehicle when needed, providing further flexibility in camp setup.
For users seeking additional capabilities, the Native200 offers a premium upgrade system, allowing features to be selected and installed individually. These options include a solar power system, an integrated shower, a chemical toilet, kitchen appliances with a stove and water tank, a roof rack, a ladder, and an awning. This modular approach enables users to tailor the unit to their specific needs and travel styles without incurring costs for unused equipment.
The Native200 is engineered to fit vehicles with a minimum vertical clearance of approximately 51 inches between the hitch ball and roof bars. The vehicle must also support a roof load of at least 165 pounds and a hitch tongue weight of 187 pounds. These specifications make it suitable for a wide range of midsize and full-size SUVs, as well as many camper-compatible vans.
For drivers of smaller vehicles or those who prioritize a lighter footprint, RoofRoomer also offers the Native185—a more compact and agile version of the system that still retains many of the comfort features found in the Native200. The company also produces a slide-in pick-up camper cabin, namely the Trucker 340.
Read More: Eura Mobil Launches the Rugged Xtura Camper
Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.
