23Zero Kabari XL Long-Term Review: 30+ Nights of Real-World Testing

Thinking about investing in the 23Zero Kabari XL rooftop tent? Before you do, hear what Kelly from Adventure Built has to say after spending over 30 nights in it across nine months of rugged adventures, sun, rain, and everything in between. With an eye for detail and practical use, Kelly gives us the real scoop in this rooftop tent review—what works, what doesn’t, and why the Kabari XL might just be the ideal setup for your overlanding rig.

Kelly kicks off his rooftop tent review by praising the size, style, and fit of the Kabari XL, especially when paired with a full-size vehicle like his Super Ute. The tent’s bold footprint feels right at home on a truck with presence. From aesthetics to engineering, it’s clear that this rooftop tent was built with intention.

“It’s a big honking tent for a big honking truck—it just makes sense” Kelly says.

One of the standout qualities of the Kabari XL is its flawless build quality. Every seam, joint, and extrusion is manufactured with precision. Over 30 nights in diverse climates, Kelly found zero signs of wear or workmanship issues.

Kelly also praises the extruded aluminum crossbars and accessory mounting points that run the perimeter of the tent. These are ideal for attaching awnings, solar panels, or other overlanding gear. Kelly personally mounted a 200W Renogy solar panel without affecting the tent’s operation—thanks to its strong gas struts.

Living in Arizona, moisture wasn’t initially a concern for Kelly—but now in Montana, rain is a regular companion. Fortunately, the Kabari XL rooftop tent has exceptional waterproofing. Despite A-frame tents often being criticized for weak seals, this model stood up to torrential downpours both while driving and camping.

“One of the tightest rooftop tents I’ve ever heard of” Kelly notes.

Opening the Kabari XL is simple: four latches (two front, two rear) secure the tent, which then articulates open rather than just angling. This provides extra headroom in the foot box area—a rare feature in A-frame designs.

Kelly clocked the setup time at just 1 minute and 15 seconds. With six poles and an intuitive process, it’s easy to get the tent up and functional quickly.

In this rooftop tent review, he also highlights a clever inclusion: a separate ladder bag to keep dirt and moisture off the mattress— a smart design that’s easy to appreciate.

The black ladder is more than just visually appealing—it’s smooth to operate and long enough for 99% of setups. Kelly often props his ladder on the tailgate due to his truck’s height, but for most rigs, ground reach won’t be an issue.

Bonus: The black finish blends better in photos, unlike traditional silver ladders that reflect and distract.

The vestibule height is perfect—easy to reach while providing solid rain protection. Kelly also notes you won’t hit your head on entry, avoiding dreaded drips of condensation.

The included waterproof boot bag slides into the tent’s extrusion rail and includes drainage mesh and extra pockets—small details that make a big difference on wet nights.

1. Supreme Mattress Comfort

Forget flimsy foam pads. This mattress is a standout feature.

“One of the most comfortable straight foam mattresses I’ve ever used” Kelly raves.

As a side sleeper, Kelly appreciates the mattress’s support—no pressure points or bottoming out, even without an air layer.

2. Panoramic Views & Ventilation

With five windows (including the door), the Kabari XL delivers stunning views and airflow. Even at the foot where the tent cantilevers out, you still get a window for cross-breezes and vistas.

Plus, there’s a condensation vent at the top to keep air moving on humid nights.

3. LST (Light Suppression Technology) Fabric

Montana summers mean 16+ hours of sunlight. But when it’s bedtime, you want it dark and cool—and the Kabari XL delivers. The LST fabric blocks out almost all light, creating a pitch-black, cave-like sleeping experience, and it keeps internal tent temperatures lower, helping you stay asleep longer.

Moving on to the interior in this rooftop tent review. Inside, you’ll find dual LED light strips with individual controls on each side. Toggle between white or amber light and adjust brightness with a simple hold.

Amber light creates a cozy vibe and helps avoid attracting bugs—ideal for nighttime wind-downs.

Plus, a roof organizer holds essentials like your phone or wallet. Kelly even slips his iPad into the large, clear center pocket for movie nights under the stars.

Despite its A-frame architecture, the Kabari XL offers impressive interior volume. It’s not cramped like a backpacking tent. There’s ample head and foot room—especially with the forward cantilever—and enough space for two adults and their gear.

“We’ve had plenty of room to move around, store bags, and just relax up here” Kelly shares.

The ceiling and walls are lined with a soft-touch material that adds a touch of comfort and likely insulates against cold and noise. Combined with the thoughtful lighting and pocket design, the interior feels more like a cozy loft than a utilitarian tent.

Kelly’s long-term rooftop tent review of the 23Zero Kabari XL paints a clear picture: this tent is tough, smartly designed, comfortable, and truly built for adventurers who demand durability and comfort in equal measure.

“I’ve spent over 30 nights in this tent, and I’m still impressed every time I climb in.”

• Tent Type: Hardshell Clamshell Style X-frame rooftop tent

• Setup Time: ~1 minute, 15 seconds

• Mattress: Thick, supportive straight foam

• Windows: 5 total for panoramic views and ventilation

• Fabric: ECO13B with Light Suppression Technology (LST)

• Extras: Integrated light strips, waterproof boot bag, storage pockets, accessory mounting tracks

If you’re looking for a premium rooftop tent with quick deployment, solid weather protection, comfortable sleep, and killer looks on a big rig— the 23Zero Kabari XL deserves a serious spot on your shortlist. Let this rooftop tent review speak for itself: the Kabari XL is the best choice for any overlander or adventurer looking for premium comfort in an expertly designed rooftop tent.

Check Out The Review Video — 23Zero Kabari XL Long Term Review | Watch before you buy!

Happy Camping!

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