Do rooftop tents tickle your fancy? Or perhaps you have one already? Are you into road trips, cool cars and outdoor adventures? Then here’s your chance: apply for our DOWNTOWN road trip adventure and test the most exciting rooftop tents with our editorial team.

We’re currently testing 11 of the most interesting rooftop tents for our DOWNTOWN magazine. As a grand finale to our big rooftop comparison test, from the 8th to the 11th of May 2024 we’ll be going on an exciting road trip, which will include bikes, kayaks, BBQ and some questionable dancing. Apply now to be part of the most exciting road trip of the year! We’ll start the trip in Stuttgart, but we’re not going to tell you where we’ll be heading! One thing’s for sure: it’s going to be awesome!

Apply here!

Just in case you don’t know DOWNTOWN yet: Whether you’re a mountain biker or roadie, a gravel hero or eMTB enthusiast, DOWNTOWN is THE magazine for everyday life. Whether you live in the suburbs or the big city, it’s the perfect read if you’re looking for something special in everyday life, if you love diversity and want some inspiration to lead a modern, outdoor-loving lifestyle.

DOWNTOWN offers the best buying advice for the nicer things in life, regardless of whether you’re looking for a rooftop tent, an espresso machine, a cargo bike, an electric car or a fancy Japanese knife. The magazine is also filled with inspiration and new perspectives: we’ve been to the sex club for you, listened to an AI-generated band and held the first bike fashion photo shoot in Paris – and we’ll also explore some ways to see more of the world, without travelling. There’s so much to discover in everyday life and that’s exactly what we’re doing, so if you already enjoy our other magazines GRAN FONDO, ENDURO or E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you might like to come along for the ride with DOWNTOWN too.

Jump in, fasten your seatbelt and sign up for our DT newsletter – because we’re really going to take off in 2024!

Sounds awesome – what are the requirements for taking part in our road trip?

Who can come along? Anyone! Whether you’re a total newbie, a weekend overlander or a seasoned vanlife veteran, everyone is welcome, and guaranteed to get their money’s worth! We have rooftop tents that can accommodate up to 6 (!) people, so you can come alone, or you can bring your family and friends. Crucially: “take it easy” is our motto – we want to have the time of our lives together.

Limelight hog or shy little frog? During our road trip, we’ll be accompanied by a media team that will be taking photos and videos. In a nutshell, you’ll appear in the magazine and shouldn’t be photo-shy, but rather keen to act in front of the cameras! Of course, we’ll also give you some photos for your private album, Insta and co. once the trip is over!

What type of vehicle do I need for the road trip? Whether it’s a Range Rover Classic, Fiat Panda 4X4 or Porsche Taycan, we just love unique, good-looking cars. It’s no coincidence that part of our crew will be made up of our good friends at the HEIZR Club. The route options ensure that both off-road and on-road drivers get their money’s worth.

What outdoor equipment do I need to bring? No matter which car you use, there’s a few things you’ll need to bring: camping equipment and functioning outdoor equipment. The latter really depends on which activities you want to engage in: a bike (in good working order), kayak, hiking boots, trail running shoes or simply a hammock and sun screen for a relaxing nap in the warm afternoon sun 😉 All outdoor activities are optional and we’ll split up according to the current mood, so it’s not necessary to bring all your outdoor toys.

Can you survive in the great outdoors? Another important detail: you should be self-sufficient, although we’re already planning to have a few cheeky BBQs and stops for fine barista coffee. And it’s entirely up to you whether you prefer to pack your precious silverware, champagne glasses and silk bed-linen, or travel light with a set of outdoor kitchenware with ultra-light cutlery, alloy mugs, carbon plates and NASA sleeping bags. Of course, it should all fit in your own boot!

And that’s about it for the initial info! One thing’s for sure: get ready for some rad secret spots, a fabulously laid-back group, and maybe a few surprises along the way! Sounds good, right? Then apply now!

Apply here!


The application deadline is at 2 pm on 17.04.2024.

Words: Robin Schmitt Photos: Marius Burg (Illustration)