It is good that side mounting [not using the sail track ] is possible, because you can then kneel the opposite pole to spill the dreaded pooling of water, that can kill awnings. Yes, it is a fair weather tent but we all get caught out sometimes...esp. longer trips. I am buying tomorrow [$99] with the 2x2m awning. When side mounting, a 2x2m awning is a better fit because you do not rely on attaching to a flimsy alloy side pole away from a secure vertical mount. Add a sail track extension to create a cosy courtyard that can still kneel in rain. Even the Drifta brand spreader bar needs a smaller amount of kneel. Side mounting also allows a quick substitution of extra poles so the vehicle can go on a side trip.
Great review. I camped out for the first time with this unit a couple of months ago and ended up getting rained out overnight and packing up next morning in the rain. Happily there were no dramas at all in terms of leaking - a couple of drops of condensation maybe but that's all. Not sure how it would have gone if there was high wind as well given that the roof of the tent is fully vented and the fly is only partial top cover. Would agree that this would serve best as a fair weather tent and also with your comments on the $200 price point. At $400 it is competing with Darche and it does not have the build quality. Also good luck getting it back into the provided bag, mine now lives in an old backpack lol. I am really happy with this tent. Subbed.
Did you end up purchasing? I just picked one up from Anaconda now for $99 and honesty, the quality is good and it's of a decent size. My local store only had one remaining with all other stores sold out. Well worth it, especially for under $100.
@@Geekchess I did! And only 1 left at my store as well. I didn't get to try it yet. But for $99 was an easy buy. I'm surprised how small it was as well. Easy to put in the back.
I’d love to test that one! From what I’ve gathered it’s about 5x as heavy, and near impossible to set up by yourself, but I’ve not tested it and can’t comment.
The Darche also has its shortcomings, I personally think any extra attachments to an awning is counterproductive. With these types of awning tents you have to pack up camp if you want to use the car , you will get a good stand alone tent for that sort of $$$$
There’s nothing wrong with them. It’s like most places, some things they do well, some things they don’t. I’ve had both good and bad experiences with their gear. I wish I could be of more help but it’s going to come down to your budget and expectations.
@@TheMidweekEscapeArtist What JM-ff7iq is saying they would like to see you unpack the awning tent then attach it to your awning, peg it out and show the process. What we see is the awning tent already set up and ready to use. No issues for me as I get what you are showing. I have been looking at this awning tent as an alternative to setting up my 8 person tent (only two of us but we have a lot of stuff, haha) for a quick one nighter. I reckon it looks good with a back up of a tarp over the top when the weather is harsh. My alternative would be to create a free standing set up with sail track so we can set up then drive and come back and the connect without the bulk of a free standing tent. Looks perfect for the Jimmy and smaller cars and full time over the top $200k fourbies. Thanks for posting cheers Gaz
