Rather than ranking tents against each other, we’ve broken this list down by category – the standout series for rooftop camping, all-round touring, family setups, no-frills basics, air tents, and lightweight options – so you can find the right fit for your next trip.

Every tent on this list was selected against three criteria:

1. Sturdy & reliable frame, for performance in all conditions
2. Canvas or a tough synthetic material, built to withstand the rigours of the outback
3. A quick-pitch design (in part or in full) for easy setup and pack-down

Whether you’re planning a weekend away or an extended outback lap, here’s where to start.

How to Choose a 4WD & Touring Tent

Consider how many people you will be sleeping

A couple can usually justify the extra expense and weight of a rooftop tent, while families will want to weigh up sleeping space and versatility instead. The bigger the group, the more that room to move – and room to store gear – starts to matter.

Size up your vehicle

If you’re driving a small sedan or SUV, a compact tent that packs down small enough to fit inside the car is the practical choice. If you’ve got a roof rack, trailer, or ute tray to work with, you’ve got more room to go bigger and heavier.

Be realistic about how often will this tent actually be used for touring

If it’s mainly a family camper that occasionally comes on a long road trip, choose a tent that suits the majority of your trips – not just the one big outback lap you’re planning.

Stick to your budget

Touring tents can get expensive, especially once you start adding rooftop options and accessories. That said, a simpler model will still get you out on the road reliably, so don’t feel like you need to spend big to get a decent setup.

Match the tent to the climate you’re camping in

Wet environments call for protected living space, so look for a decent awning or enclosed area to keep gear and people dry. In hot climates, prioritise ventilation – windows, doors, and mesh panels that let air move through.

Think about how often you will be setting up camp

Basecampers can afford a slower, more involved setup since the tent’s staying put for a few days. If you’re packing up and moving daily, you’ll want something quick and simple to pitch and pull down without it becoming a chore.

Best Touring Tent for a Quick Setup – Rooftop Tents from 23ZERO & Inspired Overland

A rooftop tent could be classed as the ultimate 4WD touring accommodation. Permanently attached to the top of your vehicle or trailer, it pops up and packs away in seconds, many allow bedding to be left inside, and they get you up off the ground.

They have pros and cons, and they are by no means a low-cost investment, but are worth it for many spending a long time on the road.

Rooftop tents require more research and considerations than we offer in this article, but we do have a guide that will help you understand which rooftop tent suits your vehicle, considerations before you buy, and why – amongst the huge range available – we choose to sell 23ZERO and Inspired Overland.

See our full guide on choosing a rooftop tent here >>.

Inspired Overland Trailpeak Rooftop Tent

$2,799.00

In Stock

View Product

Inspired Overland XL Lightweight Rooftop Tent

$2,499.00

In Stock

View Product

23Zero Onyx Triple X 1550 Hard Shell Rooftop Tent

$3,999.95

In Stock

View Product

Shop our full range of rooftop tents here >>.

Best All-Round Touring Tent – Oztent Series

Going back many years, these were the ultimate touring tent until the rooftop tent revolution came about. Interestingly, many campers who went down the rooftop tent path a few years ago are now returning to an Oztent RV tent as a roomier, more versatile, and affordable option for long trips on the road.

The Oztent range consists of the RV range (3/4/5), RV Plus (3/5), RX-5, and the SV-5 Max, all of which share the same (or very similar) frame design in different sizes and slightly varying fabrics, but all with the same level of reliability.

• Original RV range – three sizes in the same design, with the largest RV-5 being the most popular. The original RV range comes as a tent with the awning attached. You can then pick the accessories you want to add to customise your setup, such as walls, flysheets, and connectors that enable weatherproof attachment to a 4WD awning or caravan – which is why it’s so popular with 4WDers.
• RV Plus range – these are basically the RV range but come complete with the most popular accessories straight out of the box, plus an additional SkyMesh Skylight for increased ventilation and condensation management.
• RX range – an all in one solution, this comes as one kit with the tent, one large wall to enclose the awning plus a zip-in floor. You can use the tent alone but it has been designed to be used as a complete setup.
• SV-5 Max – this is the biggest tent in the Oztent range, with angled side walls that open up the internal space and continue through to an extra-large awning. Also includes a zip-on awning extension and a SkyMesh Skylight.

Oztent RV-5 Canvas Touring Tent

$1,399.00

In Stock

View Product

Oztent RV-5 Plus Canvas Touring Tent

$1,699.00

In Stock

View Product

Oztent SV-5 Max Canvas Touring Tent

$1,799.00

Out of Stock

View Product

Shop the Oztent range of touring tents here >>

Best Family Touring Tent – BlackWolf Turbo

The BlackWolf Turbo tents have also been around for a long time, providing family campers and 4WD tourers with reliable shelter. The Turbo tent design leans toward more internal living space with a more traditional design than the Oztent RV range, and they offer walls and accessories for a customised configuration, but they don’t have the 4WD- and caravan-specific connectors that some users seek.

Unlike the Oztent, the Turbo tents come with a flysheet included, which is what forms the peaked awning at the front, and their Turbo frame is very sturdy once set up and pegged out in full. The range comes in a heavy duty canvas and a lighter ‘Lite’ version which is a tough synthetic that is much easier to handle at the sacrifice of a little durability.

Available in a number of configurations to suit varying party sizes, the Turbo tents are an excellent combination of family and 4WD touring tents.

• Turbo 240 & 300 – these are the single-room models in two different sizes and are the most popular Turbo tents. They feature a single room and awning that can be enclosed with accessories.
• Turbo 240 Plus and 300 Plus – two sizes in the same configuration, these tents feature an extended rear to allow both sleeping and living space inside, as well as the same awning to the front.
• Turbo Cabin tents – larger two-room versions with huge amounts of internal space. A divider across the centre of the tent creates two rooms, each with an external access door.
• Turbo BLK tents – these models are available in 300, 300 Plus, and 450, with the same configurations as those mentioned above plus the addition of a full-coverage flysheet made of a light-blocking fabric.

BlackWolf Turbo 240 Tent

$1,249.99

In Stock

View Product

BlackWolf Turbo Plus 300 Tent

$1,499.99

In Stock

View Product

BlackWolf Turbo BLK Lite Cabin 450 Tent

$1,599.99

In Stock

View Product

Shop BlackWolf Turbo tents here >>

Simple & Reliable Touring Tents – Darche Safari

When it comes to outback travel, simple is often best, as there is very little that can go wrong. The Darche Safari tents are a perfect example of this. The range spans two different sizes: the base model features a single steel centre pole for simplicity, while the larger version offers a little extra space to accommodate living and sleeping. It’s probably the best balance of affordability and durability, purely on the basis of a no-frills yet reliable design.

Darche Safari 260 Touring Tent

$899.00

In Stock

View Product

Darche Safari 350 Touring Tent

$999.00

In Stock

View Product

Darche Safari Tent A-Frame Kit

$129.90

In Stock

View Product

Shop Darche Safari tents here >>

Air Tents For Touring – Dometic Santorini & Zempire

Air tents have yet to really take off in the 4WD and touring category. These are arguably the most forgiving options for extreme conditions, as the frame will flex and pop back up rather than bend when subject to excessive force. They are easy to set up and pack away and are very liveable.

The packed dimensions may better suit certain vehicles or trailers, as they’re not as long thanks to the lack of rigid poles – and you can get a lot of real estate from the smaller packed size.

We recommend air tents from Zempire and Dometic for their durable fabrics and quality construction.

• Zempire Pro range – luxury tents made with tough materials that offer the most comfortable accommodation in the most challenging of environments.
• Zempire Aerospeed range – made with lighter-weight materials but perfect for smaller vehicles covering a lot of kms.
• Zempire Shapeshifter – the ultimate modular air tent. Start with just the sleeping module and extend your tent out to suit how you camp by adding an awning or living module, awning walls, and bedroom pods. Made with the latest in fabric technology, the Shapeshifter will cater for couples and families alike.
• Dometic Santorini – made with a durable canvas and designed with upright walls, the Santorini has proven popular for family camping and is a suitable option for touring too, on account of its quality build and durable materials. Available in two different sizes, both with a large awning that can be enclosed with walls, the Santorini is a very liveable tent for exploring families.

Dometic Santorini FTK 4X8 TC Inflatable Tent

$1,420.00

Out of Stock

View Product

Zempire Aerospeed 6 Air Tent

$850.00

In Stock

View Product

Zempire Pro TM V2 Air Tent

$2,300.00

In Stock

View Product

Shop Air Tents here >>

Best Lightweight Touring Tents – Coleman Instant Up

Ideally, we place these tents in the family camping category. They do feature a quick-pitch frame and are of similar appearance to the BlackWolf Turbo tents mentioned above, making them suitable for lighter-weight touring setups, but users should be aware that they are made with much lighter-weight fabrics and thinner frame materials, which increase the chance of issues in extreme conditions.

Because of these reasons, we’ve listed these as touring tent options for lower budgets or less packing space, and we recommend the sturdier 4-person and 6-person variants for the best balance of stability and liveability.

• Instant Up Gold Evo Series – basic 4-person and 6-person tents made with Coleman’s premium fabrics. Affordable and reliable shelter when set up in full.
• Instant Up Lighted Northstar Series – a step up in features from the Evo Series. Same frame but with blackout fabrics, integrated lighting, and extended awning features. We recommend the 4-person and 6-person versions for touring, as they offer the best in stability.
• Instant Up Evo – the base range of these tents. They feature the same frame but are stripped down in their features, and the fabric has a lower waterhead. The floor is also a durable PE that doesn’t feel as nice as the Gold Series’ PU-coated Oxford.

Coleman Instant Up 6P Silver Evo Tent

$349.00

In Stock

View Product

Coleman Instant Up 4P Gold Evo Tent

$399.00

In Stock

View Product

Coleman Instant Up 6P Lighted Northstar Darkroom Tent

$549.00

In Stock

View Product

Shop Coleman Instant Up tents here >>

Touring Tent FAQs

The post Best 4WD & Touring Tents for 2026 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Firstly though, a bit of transparency; I work for Zempire. While I naturally have a bias towards the Zempire brand and can talk first hand about the quality and performance of the products I work with, most of what I mention can be applied to air tents in general.

That being said, here are my 5 reasons to own an air tent.

1. Exceptional Wind Performance  

Don’t worry, they’re not like bouncy castles that will fly away when the wind picks up! Social media content coming out of New Zealand last summer showed first-hand how Zempire air tents handled the cyclones that hit the country’s east coast.

See how well Zempire’s air tent holds up during a cyclone in this video.

Much of wind performance is down to the tent’s shape and aerodynamics. However, when you compare an air tube that is 10-15cm in diameter with a fibreglass pole that is 8mm in diameter, it’s obvious which will create the more robust structure to handle wind! In extremely high winds air tubes are known to bend when under severe stress and bounce back into shape. There’s absolutely no risk of snapping a steel or fibreglass pole, or even bending it out of shape permanently (both of which could also damage the fabric of your tent).  

Setting up in windy conditions is also easier, especially with tents that feature single-point inflation. There’s less disruption from the wind when you don’t have to thread poles through sleeves, Zempire air tents have their flies attached making setup even easier in comparison to tents that have them detached. Pack-down is also much more straightforward in high winds; the tent simply collapses in a matter of seconds to then be folded, rather than requiring poles to be pulled through the sleeves with the tent flapping around!

Easy Tip: You can increase your wind performance purely by directing the front of your tent away from the prevailing wind.

2. Quick Set-Up & Pack Away 

You’ll be amazed at the time you save not having to refer to an instruction manual every few minutes to check what pole goes where! The fastest inflation time we’ve recorded with a Zempire air tent (our Pronto 4 V2 – no longer available) is 17.33 seconds! Pumping up an airframe instead of solving a pole puzzle saves a huge amount of time and brain power, as the air tubes are already attached to the tent. Even some of our largest polyester tents, like our Evo TXL V2 (sleeping up to 8 campers), can be inflated in under two minutes.  
 
Packing away is even faster. Simply undo the Boston valves or air-release taps and watch the air tent collapse in a matter of seconds. Ever been in a situation where you spent a bit too long at the beach and feel the rain coming in? An air tent’s simple deflation process takes the stress out of pack-down and sends you on the road much faster. More than anything, it’ll have your camping holiday off to a good start, and packing everything back into the car a lot easier!

3. Simple and Convenient – You’ll Go Camping More Often! 

The majority of Zempire air tents are a one-person task to set up, and you don’t need to be a camping expert. It’s literally as simple as rolling the tent out, pegging it down, and pumping it up. In fact, the hardest part may be choosing whether you want to manually pump it up, or use an electric pump like our Supercell to do the work for you.  
 
If you’re camping with your family, an adult can look after the kids while another can solely take care of setting up the tent. If it’s raining, only one person needs to step outside to pitch an air tent while the rest stay dry in the car. Convenient, right? Camping excursions are supposed to be relaxing, and air tents make that possible. You’ll naturally go camping more often, feel more confident with setup, and enjoy your time in the outdoors even more.  

4. Durable and Easy to Maintain 

Don’t you hate it when you open a tent bag and loads of different pieces fall out? Not only do you then have to figure out what each one is, you also must solve what goes where. A Zempire air tent has minimal extra components inside the tent bag, usually just the pump and the pegs, while many of our new designs feature an integrated roll out bag making it even easier to manage. This massively decreases the risk of losing any equipment crucial for your campsite, and makes it easy to maintain. Sure, you may need to remove some dirt from your pegs, but you will avoid the endless supply of poles to clean too!

If you need to dry your tent after a camping holiday, it’s a lot simpler to do this with an air tent since they’re so fast to inflate. Taking care of your tent to increase its longevity is easy, so you can camp in comfort for years to come. Zempire air tents are easy to maintain and also feature highly durable materials – so you can camp with confidence knowing they’ll hold up in less-than-ideal conditions. The lowest waterhead rating on a Zempire polyester air tent is 3,000mm. It only goes up from there!

Read our Blog post for more information on waterhead ratings, or tune into Ep. 16 of The Snowys Camping Show.

5. They’re Fun (and Known to Save Relationships!)  

We hear time and time again from our Zempire Family that our air tents have saved relationships and marriages! While we take it with a grain of salt, it’s true that there is less time and reason for campsite disputes when you have an air tent, in comparison to more traditional models.   

They’re also fun… so technically that’s six reasons! There is a unique novelty to watching an air tent pop up after inflation and collapse on deflation. It never gets old undoing the Boston valves to see the tent deflate quickly with a flick of the wrist!  We’ve also found that most kids jump at the chance to have a turn at pumping up air tents, and are quick to put their hand up to deflate them too!

There you have it. If you were looking for a reason to become an air tent owner – now you have five!

The post 5 Reasons to Own an Air Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

How to Choose

Frame and setup – Most gazebos run a pop-up steel frame that concertinas open – one person can usually have it standing in minutes but at least two people will make the job much easier. Air-frame models inflate instead, swapping steel frames for air filled poles that flex in a gust rather than bend or snap.

Size and coverage – Match the footprint to the crowd. A 2.4m suits a couple or a tight boot, a 3m covers most family setups, and 4.5m to 6m spans handle big groups, events and market stalls. Multi-height legs are worth having if you want to drop it low and wind-stable, or raise it for standing room.

Walls and sides – Open shade is plenty in fair weather, but a gazebo with walls earns its keep when the wind picks up or the afternoon sun comes in low. Most brands offer solid and mesh sides as separately available accessories, so you can run it open or wrap it right up for privacy and extra weather protection.

Canopy and weatherproofing – Check the canopy denier and UV rating for sun protection, and the waterhead rating for rain. Plenty of gazebos are sun shelters rather than waterproof ones, so if you camp in the wet, look for a rated waterhead plus anti-ponding bars that stop water pooling on the canopy.

Stability in wind – No gazebo stays put on pegs alone in a real blow. Use all the guy ropes, add sandbags or weight pods on hard ground where you can’t peg, and bear in mind that air-frame models bend and return to their normal shape, whereas steel frames, while strong, will eventually bend and potentially snap if conditions get bad enough.

Pack size and portability – Be honest about boot space. Lighter air-frames and compact 2.4m gazebos pack short and load easily, while larger steel models weigh more but usually roll away in a wheeled carry bag. You may need a roof rack to transport some cars depending on your vehicle size.

Best Gazebo For Camping

OZtrail Deluxe 3.0 Blue Gazebo with Hydro Flow

$259.99

In Stock

View Product

There’s a reason the OZtrail Deluxe 3.0 Gazebo with Hydro Flow is one of the most popular shelters on the market – it gets the job done.

The 3 x 3m UVTex® 300D polyester canopy blocks 98% of UV and sits on a 32mm powder-coated steel frame, with a heavy-duty strut system that resists buckling in the wind and triple-layer 600D reinforced corners that shrug off wear. Hydro Flow anti-ponding bars on each corner shed water before it pools, large roof vents let heat and breeze escape, and three height settings – 193, 208 and 223cm – drop it low when it’s blowy or lift it for standing room. Pegs, guy ropes and a wheeled carry bag are included, and one person can have it up in minutes.

From camping trips and beach days to backyard get-togethers, the sideline and the market stall, it’s the do-everything gazebo that takes whatever the weekend throws at it.

Also available in 2.4, 4.5 and 6.0 sizes >>.

Best for: campers after one reliable, easy-up all-rounder that’s just as at home at the campsite, the beach or the backyard.

Best Heavy Duty Gazebo

OZtrail Deluxe Commercial 3.0 Gazebo with Hydro Flow

$309.99

In Stock

View Product

While most gazebo’s are pulling regular duty, the OZtrail Deluxe Commercial 3.0 Gazebo with Hydro Flow is doing the heavy lifting.

Sharing the same 32mm powder-coated steel frame as the standard OZtrail Deluxe gazebo, this one steps up to a heavier 500D fire-retardant UVTex® polyester canopy made to handle weekend-after-weekend use, with triple-layer 600D reinforced wear points and Hydro Flow anti-ponding bars that shed water before it pools. It’s tested and certified by Australian engineers to the Building Code of Australia for temporary structures – the box stallholders usually need ticked for council-run markets – and it passes US fire-retardant standard CPAI-84. Three push-button height settings reach 223cm of head clearance, large roof vents dump heat and wind, and a heavy-duty wheeled carry bag with peg and canopy pockets makes loading and unloading the boot a one-trip job.

For market stalls, event days and anyone setting up week in, week out, it’s the gazebo that earns its keep through a long season of hard use.

Also available in 2.4, 4.5, 6.0 and Flexi Shade versions >>.

Best for: market traders, event operators and regular users who need a tough, certified shelter built to go up and down again and again.

Best Lightweight & Portable Gazebo

Zempire Speedbase 2 Air Gazebo

$900.00

In Stock

View Product

Light to carry, small to stow. The Zempire Speedbase 2 Air Gazebo swaps rigid poles for an inflatable air frame, folding down to a compact 57 x 34 x 29cm bundle at just 9.65kg.

A single-point inflation system has it standing in minutes, while 9.5mm aluminium stabilising brow poles add wind stability and standing headroom once it’s pitched. The Dura-Core 75D ripstop polyester carries a genuine 3,000mm waterhead and UPF 50+, with a blackout coating to keep it cooler underneath and upper vents to cut condensation. A gusseted compression carry bag makes it easy to repack to size, and zip-on points take one to four walls or link to a Zempire Aerospeed air tent when you want more room.

For tourers, tight boots and anyone who’d rather not wrestle a long, heavy gazebo bag, it stows away small and rides along easily wherever you camp.

Best for: campers and tourers short on packing space who want a light, compact shelter that still pitches full-height and weatherproof.

Best Gazebo for the Beach

Best Inflatable Air Gazebo

Quest Outdoors Air Gazebo 3.0

$749.00

Out of Stock

View Product

Same familiar gazebo shape, none of the snappable poles. The Quest Outdoors Air Gazebo 3.0 swaps rigid struts for an inflatable air frame, so a gust that would buckle or break a conventional gazebo just flexes the beams and lets them spring back into shape.

Single-point inflation has the 15cm air frame and integrated canopy standing in under five minutes, with a double-action pump included and twin deflation valves to dump the air in seconds when you pack up. The 3 x 3m QTEX 150D polyester canopy carries UPF50+ and a 2,000mm waterhead, a removable heavy-duty PE groundsheet closes off the floor, and lantern points and strip-light hooks plus a power-cord pass-through turn it into a proper evening setup. Solid and mesh wall kits zip the sides in when you want them, and the whole lot stows in an oversized carry bag that’s easy to repack.

For campers who want the look and footprint of a regular gazebo with far more give in gusty weather, the air frame is the smarter shelter.

Best for: campers chasing traditional gazebo coverage with the wind-forgiving flex of an air frame, plus a full floor and lighting setup for basecamp.

Best Waterproof Gazebo for Wet & Windy Weather

Zempire Evobase 3 Air Gazebo

$1,000.00

In Stock

View Product

When the forecast turns, the Zempire Evobase 3 Air Gazebo is built to dig in. The hybrid air frame flexes in gusts that would snap rigid poles, then springs straight back.

Fully inflatable beams pair with aluminium brow poles for stability and headroom, pitching the whole thing in under a minute and packing away just as fast. The 300D poly oxford roof and 150D walls both carry a 3,000mm waterhead and UPF50+, so it sheds genuine rain rather than just dribbling, and upper expel vents move warm, humid air to cut condensation underneath. The big draw for rough weather is the coverage: a generous 3.5 x 3.5m footprint, plus one deluxe wall included to close off the windward side, with a large internally controlled window in both solid and mesh. Add more walls to wrap it right up, and link it to a Zempire Evo or Pro series tent when you want a fully sheltered camp.

For campers who want to keep enjoying the outdoors when the weather doesn’t play along, the more you wall it in, the more it shrugs off wind and rain.

Heavier duty Zempire Probase 3 also available >>.

Best for: campers who want a roomy, properly weatherproof shelter that stands firm in wind and rain, with walls to seal it up as conditions worsen.

Best Large Gazebo for Groups

Coleman Event 15 Deluxe Shelter + Sunwall

$349.00

Out of Stock

View Product

When the whole crew rocks up, the Coleman Event 15 Deluxe Shelter spreads out to cover them. A 4.65 x 4.65m footprint throws over 20 square metres of shade – room for the table, the chairs and the esky with space to spare.

Underneath the canopy is a sturdy steel frame with an Easy Glide setup and pinch-free locking that two people can have standing without a fight, while 228cm of head height keeps it comfortable to stand and move around under. The 150D polyester canopy carries UPF50+ to take the sting out of the sun, reflective guy ropes and pegs hold it steady when the breeze picks up, and a sunwall is included to block low afternoon sun or screen off one side. When the day’s done it folds back into a single carry bag that drops into the boot.

For family reunions, club days, group campsites and big backyard get-togethers, it’s the shelter that gives everyone somewhere to gather.

Best for: families, groups and events needing one big, shadey gathering space that two people can still put up.

Best Gazebo with Lights

OZtrail Commercial Lumos 3.0 Gazebo

$399.99

Out of Stock

View Product

The OZtrail Commercial Lumos 3.0 Gazebo builds the lighting right in, so there’s no rigging a lantern off the frame after dark. A fully integrated Lumos LED system runs along the canopy and switches on at the press of a button.

White light cycles through low, medium and high for general use, and an orange BugShield mode helps keep the insects at bay over dinner – all powered by the included 4 D-cell battery box or a lithium power bank through a 5V outlet. Around the lighting sits a serious shelter: OZtrail’s 32mm powder-coated steel Deluxe frame, a commercial-grade 500D UVTex silver-coated canopy that blocks over 98% of UV, 600D triple-layer reinforced corners and Hydroflow anti-ponding bars to shed water and keep the canopy taut. Three one-handed height settings reach 223cm of head clearance, dual roof vents move heat, and it packs into a heavy-duty wheeled carry bag.

For markets, events and campsites that run well past sundown, it’s the gazebo that lights itself.

OZtrail Commercial Lumos 6.0 Gazebo also available >>.

Best for: market traders, event hosts and campers who want built-in lighting and commercial-grade shade in one unit, with no separate lights to pack.

Shop all the gazebos in Snowy’s range here >>

The post Guide to Choosing the Right Gazebo in 2026 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

How to choose a swag

First thing to consider is style and size – single, king single, and double. Test out different brands to see which feels more comfortable – the thickness of the mattress may matter to you, but you can always add a lightweight mattress topper if needed.

Depending on the type of camping you plan to do, the durability and thickness of the zips and canvas could be a deal-breaker. A feature worth prioritising is a full-length mesh panel – this means you can be fully zipped up and enclosed, but with the canvas outer rolled right back. This allows you to use your swag in virtually any weather, including hot desert nights in the middle of summer.

Traditional vs Dome

Traditional swags are essentially two layers of canvas with a mattress sandwiched in between. They’re lightweight, compact when rolled, easy to transport, and generally more affordable than dome swags.

Dome swags, thanks to their shape and height of 60-70cm, provide plenty of room inside while keeping the canvas off your face. They offer easy side and/or head access, good ventilation, and keep insects, vermin, and snakes out.

Consider the Configuration

Consider how you plan to use your swag and whether the door, window, and vent configuration suits your needs. If you want to sit side by side on the edge of the swag, a full-length door is the way to go – it also opens up better views of the night sky on warm evenings. If you’re mostly camping in cold weather or snow, you may need to trade the large doors for more pole structure and stability.

Determine Size

Swags are generally available in three standard sizes – 900, 1100, and 1400.

• 900 – Single: Best for individuals
• 1100 – King Single: Best for individuals wanting extra room for themselves, their gear, or a furry friend
• 1400 – Double: Best for couples – many models also have annex accessories available for extra storage

Replacement and upgraded sleeping mats and sleeping bags are now widely available in the same size options to match.

Know the Canvas

• Quality canvas swags are made from a blend of cotton and polyester fibres, creating a material that is breathable, rot-proof, and waterproof.
• “Heavy-duty ripstop” means synthetic fibre has been integrated into the weave, improving the strength-to-weight ratio and stopping small tears from spreading. You can identify it by the grid pattern visible in the fabric.
• Canvas weight is generally expressed in ounces per square yard (oz) or grams per square metre (gsm). Most swags fall in the 14-16oz range, which is roughly equivalent to 320-360gsm.

Canvas or PVC Base?

• A PVC base will generally keep your swag drier in wet conditions than a canvas base, though it tends to be less breathable and more prone to condensation.
• If your preferred swag doesn’t have a PVC base, a tarp works just as well. As a bonus, it also gives you a clean surface to step on when getting in and out.

Test the Mattress

• Swag mattresses are generally made from high-density open-cell foam with a removable poly-cotton cover for easy washing.
• Thickness ranges from 35mm in biker and traditional swags up to 70mm in top-of-the-range dome swags, and typically increases with price.
• For added comfort, self-inflating mats are a good addition or alternative when compact storage or transport is a priority.

Check the Ventilation

• Dome swags offer good ventilation through the zippered openings at the head and foot, which can be fully or partially opened as needed. The head window is sometimes referred to as the “shooter’s window.”
• Pegging out the canvas door and window covers enables ventilation whilst providing weather protection.

Look for Quality Zips

• Reliable, good-performing zips are essential in a quality swag. No.10 heavy-duty YKK spiral or coil zips are the benchmark, though many equivalents perform just as well. Look for chunky, solid pull-tabs and zips that feel strong and robust.

Do you Need Storage Pockets?

• Most swags offer internal nooks and pockets to store torches, phones, water bottles, and more.
• Good-quality swags have pockets to store poles and pegs when the swag is rolled up, making them easy to find when needed.

Swags vs Tents

Sleeping in a swag isn’t claustrophobic – especially with the poles set up, where the result resembles a small tent. The real advantage over a tent is that everything is bundled into one package: sleeping bag, mattress, and shelter all in one.

With a tent, each component is carried and assembled separately. The trade-off is that a tent generally packs down smaller than a swag, so it does come down to your circumstances and how you travel. And, of course, how much of an old romantic you are.

Swag Accessories

• A swag bag, if not included with your swag, is worth considering for transport and storage – it protects against damage and keeps your swag clean. Shop Swag Bags >>
• Many brands now offer sleeping bags in swag-specific sizes. Not essential, but if you like things to match up neatly, look for options with 900, 1100, or 1400 in the name. Shop Size-Specific Sleeping Bags >>
• Self-inflating mats make great swag mattresses – lightweight and more compact when rolled. A self-inflating pillow works well for the same reason. Some brands make mats in swag-specific sizes, but anything that fits your swag, budget, and comfort needs will do the job. Shop Self-Inflating Mats >>
• A spreader pole keeps your swag taut and stable – useful when pegging out with rope and pegs isn’t possible. Shop Spreader Poles >>

Caring for your swag

Swags are easy to care for – the main thing is to keep your swag dry when storing it. For a more detailed guide, see our full article on looking after your swag.

23Zero vs Darche – Which Swag Is Better?

We stock both brands because when it comes to performance, quality, and range, they’re neck and neck with the best swag brands on the market. Both use carefully selected, high-quality canvas suited to the demands of swag life – so don’t get too caught up in an extra 20gsm of canvas here and there, or whether stainless steel poles are better than alloy, or which mesh offers marginally better insect protection.

What is worth focusing on is the mattress – how thick it is and what reviews say about comfort. Consider packed size and how you’ll transport it, the door and vent configuration and how it suits your intended use, and how straightforward the setup is day to day.

Beyond that, it really comes down to brand preference or whether a specific model’s features better suit what you’re after.

We’ve compared 23Zero and Darche swags side by side here >>

Best Rated Camping Swag

23Zero Dual Swag 900

$329.95

In Stock

View Product

A consistent crowd favourite, the 23ZERO Dual Swag 900mm earns its reputation through a solid combination of build quality, comfort, and versatility. The freestanding dome design sets up quickly without fuss, and the 400gsm polycotton canvas with fully seam-sealed construction holds up well in typical Aussie conditions.

Inside, the 70mm hi-density foam mattress is genuinely comfortable, and the roomy 90cm-wide sleeping area means you’re not fighting for space – making it our top pick for a single swag too. The stargazing door, two-way entry, and mesh windows at each end keep things pleasant in warmer weather, while the zip-down storm covers add protection when conditions turn. The HF welded PVC bucket floor rounds out the weatherproofing package nicely.

It works equally well on the ground or on a stretcher, suits a wide range of trips and conditions, and packs down into its own carry bag without drama. A dependable all-rounder that’s hard to fault.

Available in 900, 1100 and 1400 sizes.

Best for: Any swagging adventure

Best Double Camping Swag

Darche Nebula + 1550 Swag with 70mm Mattress

$779.00

In Stock

View Product

For couples or anyone who refuses to compromise on space, the Darche Nebula+ 1550 is a serious double swag that goes well beyond just a wider sleeping area. The 150cm-wide hybrid design comfortably fits two, and the 420gsm ripstop polycotton canvas with 800mm waterhead rating and internal seam sealing means it’s built to handle whatever the outback throws at it.

What sets it apart is the unique Hutch® storage compartment – a dedicated space for camping gear accessible via two external doors, keeping clutter out of the sleeping area. Five entry points and fine insect mesh on every door and window keep airflow up and bugs out, while the storm covers double as an awning for extended hangouts outside.

The 70mm foam mattress comes with a removable, washable cover, and everything packs into a heavy-duty canvas swag bag. A genuinely capable setup for two.

Best for: Couples, especially if doggo is in tow.

Roomiest Camping Swag

23Zero Outbreak Double Swag 1550

$599.95

In Stock

View Product

If interior space is the priority, the 23ZERO Outbreak 1550 delivers it in spades. The large freestanding design is held up by strong 16mm black steel body poles – a noticeably more rigid frame than many competitors – which creates a stable, tent-like interior that genuinely fits two adults with room left over for gear.

The 150cm-wide sleeping area sits on a 70mm hi-density foam mattress, and the HF welded PVC bucket floor and fully seam-sealed 400gsm polycotton canvas keep moisture out from every angle. Four entry points make getting in and out easy from either side, and the panoramic 360-degree mesh windows are a standout feature – great for airflow and stargazing, with zip-down canvas walls ready when the weather closes in.

It’s a substantial setup at 22kg, so best suited to vehicle-based camping where weight isn’t a concern but comfort absolutely is.

Best for: Anyone wanting to be able to sit up inside of their swag

Best Motorcycle Touring Swag

Darche Ranger Solo + Swag

$319.00

In Stock

View Product

When you’re travelling by bike, every kilogram and every centimetre of packed size counts. The Darche Ranger Solo+ is built with exactly that in mind – at just 6.5kg and packing down to a compact 50 x 35 x 35cm, it straps neatly to a pannier and doesn’t eat into your load capacity.

The 320gsm polycotton ripstop canvas and 600gsm welded PVC bucket floor punch above their weight for weather protection, and the aluminium alloy poles keep the overall weight down without sacrificing a stable setup. The Hutch storage compartment is a particularly handy feature for riders – stash your helmet, boots, or gloves out of the weather and access them from inside through the removable mesh panel.

The 50mm foam mattress is slimmer than bulkier swags, but it’s a sensible trade-off for the packability on offer. A smart, purpose-built choice for the solo traveller on the road.

Best for: Motorcycle tourers

Best Looking Camping Swag

23Zero Onyx Dual 900 Swag

$329.95

In Stock

View Product

Not every camping purchase is purely practical – sometimes you just want the best-looking setup at the campsite. The 23ZERO Onyx Dual 900 delivers that in spades, with a deep Onyx Black finish and signature feature stitching that stands out against the usual sea of beige canvas.

Underneath the good looks, it’s built on the proven Dual 900 platform with genuine substance. The segmental arch pole design uses 9.5mm black-coated stainless steel poles with precision-placed elbows – no fibreglass – creating a stronger, sag-free stance with solid internal headroom. The 410gsm polycotton canvas is fully seam-sealed, the 550gsm HF-welded PVC bucket floor handles whatever the ground throws at it, and the 70mm foam mattress means comfort isn’t sacrificed for style.

Two-way entry, zip-down storm covers, and PVC-coated insect mesh round out a swag that performs as well as it looks.

Best for: Campers with an eye for good looking camp gear

Best Budget Camping Swag

OZtrail Cooper Expedition Single Swag

$149.99

In Stock

View Product

Not every camping trip calls for a premium dome swag, and the OZtrail Cooper Expedition Single is a refreshing reminder of that. At just 4kg and packing down to a slim 75 x 24 x 24cm, it’s one of the most compact and affordable swags on the market – and one of the simplest to use.

There’s no setup involved whatsoever. Roll it out, unzip, and you’re ready for bed. The 230gsm ripstop canvas and 460gsm PVC vinyl floor provide solid basic protection, and the head awning adds a little extra shelter when needed. The full-length zip running down one side and across the foot gives you ventilation control without any complexity.

The 5cm open-cell foam mattress is functional rather than luxurious, but for the price and packability on offer, that’s a fair trade. A great entry point for occasional campers or a lightweight backup swag to have on hand.

Best for: Price conscious campers

Best Four Season Camping Swag

23Zero Bandit Swag 900

$399.95

In Stock

View Product

For campers who don’t let the calendar dictate their trips, the 23ZERO Bandit Single 900 is built to handle whatever conditions you throw at it. The key difference from a standard dome swag is the additional centre hoop pole – it reinforces the frame structure, reduces flex in heavy wind or rain, and maintains internal space when the weather closes in.

The 400gsm fully seam-sealed polycotton canvas and HF welded PVC bucket floor form a solid weatherproof foundation, while four all-weather awnings and full zip-down storm covers give you genuine protection across every season. When conditions are mild, the superfine insect mesh and 4-way entry keep airflow moving and bugs out.

The 70mm foam mattress keeps comfort consistent year-round, and the freestanding design works equally well on the ground or on a stretcher. At 14kg it’s a solid carry, but one that earns its weight when conditions get serious.

Available in 900, 1100 and 1400 sizes.

Best for: Campers needing a reliable swag throughout the year

Best Air Swag

Dometic Pico FTC 2x2 TC-I Inflatable Camping Tent 2-Person

$759.00

In Stock

View Product

For campers who want to spend less time setting up and more time relaxing, the Dometic Pico FTC 2×2 is a genuinely clever piece of kit. Air Frame Technology replaces traditional poles entirely – inflate the frame in minutes, stake out a few pegs, and you’re done. It packs down to a compact 68 x 29 x 29cm and comes with backpack-style carry straps, making it one of the most portable swag-style shelters available.

The Weathershield TC polycotton canvas is designed to reduce condensation – a common frustration in enclosed swags – while fully sealed doors and windows keep insects out. The integrated I-Beam inflatable mattress provides a decent 4.5cm of support without adding bulk, and the wet weather entrance is a handy touch for getting in and out without soaking the interior.

At 11.5kg it works comfortably as a two-person setup, or a very roomy single. A strong choice for campers who value speed and packability above all else.

Best for: Ease of setup and packability.

Best Dog Camping Swag

23Zero Woof Den Dog Swag

$149.95

In Stock

View Product

Because your dog deserves a decent night’s sleep too. The 23ZERO Woof-Den is a purpose-built dog swag that brings the same build quality as the human range – scaled down for four-legged campers weighing between 4 and 8kg.

The 320gsm polycotton canvas construction is fully seam-sealed, and the heavy-duty 550gsm HF welded PVC bucket floor keeps things dry from the ground up – handy when your dog has no regard for muddy paws. The large arched entry makes it easy for dogs to get in and out independently, and the PVC-coated superfine insect mesh provides ventilation without letting the bugs in.

Setup is straightforward with 19mm coated segment poles and an aluminium trigger-lock ridge pole, and the whole thing packs down to a compact 70 x 28 x 28cm – not much bigger than a day pack. A thoughtful addition to the kit list for campers who never leave the dog at home.

Best for: Your furry campsite friend.

Camping Swag FAQ’s

The post Best Camping Swags 2026 – Buyers Guide appeared first on Snowys Blog.

What Is a Stretcher Tent?

A stretcher tent is exactly what it sounds like — a single-person tent built onto a camp stretcher frame. You’re off the ground, under cover, and set up in minutes. Think of it as a swag’s more structured cousin.

Stretcher Tent FAQs

Stretcher Tent vs Traditional Swag: Which One Is Right For You?

The Stretcher Tent

Think of a stretcher tent as a swag’s more structured cousin — a single-person tent married to a camp stretcher. You’re off the ground, under cover, and with room to move. The choice of which stretcher tent is best comes down to how you want to live in it.

OZtrail’s Easy Fold 1P is our most affordable option, with Blockout and 2P options also available. Quest go the extra mile with extra large awnings, Oztent’s Bunker Pro is our most durable and popular choice. Darche’s double option i s unique in that the stretcher element is not included with the tent, rather it attaches on top of a separately available stretcher.

Best for: Campers who want comfort and flexibility across varied terrain and conditions.

Oztent Bunker Pro Stretcher Tent

$549.90

In Stock

View Product

OZtrail Easy Fold 1P Stretcher Tent

$229.99

Out of Stock

View Product

Darche XL Double Stretcher Tent

$499.00

In Stock

View Product

OZtrail BlockOut Easy Fold Stretcher Tent Single

$329.99

In Stock

View Product

Quest Outdoors The Beast Stretcher Tent

$399.00

In Stock

View Product

OZtrail Easy Fold 2P Stretcher Tent

$359.99

In Stock

View Product

Shop our full stretcher tent range here >>

The Traditional Swag

Swags have long been the go-to camp sleeping setup for Australian campers – simple, self-contained, and built for the outdoors. Stretcher tents aren’t far behind though, and for anyone shopping for a swag, they’re well worth considering. Here’s how the two stack up.

The swag is Australian camping at its most iconic. A mattress wrapped in a canvas shell, rolled out under the stars – simple, rugged, and self-contained. Modern dome swags have added poles and extra headroom, but the core concept hasn’t changed.

Best for: Dry-weather touring, minimalist campers, anyone who wants their entire bed in one roll.

23Zero Onyx Dual 900 Swag

$329.95

In Stock

View Product

OZtrail Cooper Expedition Single Swag

$149.99

In Stock

View Product

23Zero Outbreak Double Swag 1550

$599.95

In Stock

View Product

Shop our full swag range here >>

The Middle Ground: Swag on a Stretcher

The third option that’s becoming increasingly popular – simply placing your swag on top of a camp stretcher. You get the comfort and protection of a swag at the height provided by a stretcher tent.

The real advantage here is versatility. Each piece pulls independent duty: the stretcher can be used independently with just a sleeping bag, and the swag goes anywhere a swag normally would – on the ground, inside a tent, or in the back of the ute.

The trade-off is setup. A swag on a stretcher is a bit more mucking about to get sorted, and you’re carrying two items instead of one, so you’ll need more packing space. But for campers who already own both, it’s worth knowing the combo works – and works well.

Best for: Campers who want versatility across different trips, or those already invested in both pieces of gear.

Roody Rapid 900 King-Single Stretcher Coffee

$119.90

In Stock

View Product

Oztent RS-1S King Single Stretcher Series II

$249.90

In Stock

View Product

Quest Outdoors Swag and Mattress Platform - Single

$229.99

In Stock

View Product

Shop our full camping stretcher bed range here >>

Swags vs Stretcher Tents at a Glance

If you’re touring the outback in fine weather and want a no-fuss bedroll – the swag wins. If you want comfort across varied terrain with built-in shelter and storage – go the stretcher tent. If you want the flexibility to mix and match across different trips – a swag and stretcher combo is a smart investment.

The post The Complete Guide to Stretcher Tents: Plus How They Compare to Swags appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Best Rated All-Round Family Tent

Coleman Instant Up 10P Lighted Northstar Darkroom Tent

$799.00

Out of Stock

View Product

Maintaining its position as our best-rated family tent for yet another year, the Coleman Instant Up 10P Lighted Northstar Darkroom Tent is the sunrise-defying shelter for families chasing comfort, convenience, and a much-needed sleep-in. The unique darkroom coating blocks 95% of daylight, while the versatile awning delivers flexible setup options to suit any campsite.

Three rooms separated by zippered mesh and privacy doors carve out space for both family time and a quiet retreat, while integrated LED strip lighting brings the campsite glow at the flick of a switch. Tough flooring that feels great underfoot, paired with a 3000mm waterhead fly, keeps the family dry and comfortable – making this Coleman classic the well-earned number one for family campers at a very affordable price tag.

Check out the whole Coleman Instant Up range here >>

Best for: Families seeking value and ease of setup plus all the comforts in a tent for weekend getaways

Best Inflatable Family Tent

Zempire Evo TL V2 Air Tent

$2,000.00

In Stock

View Product

Built for the big trip and ideal for large families chasing the best balance of longevity and affordability in an air tent – the Evo TL V2 by Zempire delivers premium ventilation, UV protection, wild weather performance, and a whole lot of living space.

Angled beams add rigidity and headroom, the extended awning provides privacy and protection from the elements, and the multi-configuration bedroom system creates flexibility and comfort for families on the move. Fifteen ventilation points and five external windows keep the airflow superb, while bug-proof mesh keeps the insects at bay. Rain, hail, or shine, torrential rain-tested, UV-treated fabric, TPU taping, seam-sealing, and a fire retardant coating armour the Evo against the elements.

For large families wanting room to spread out and relax, the Zempire Evo TL V2 hits the good-value sweet spot in the air tent line-up.

Best for: Large families seeking the best balance of durability and affordability in an air tent

Best 2 Room Family Tent

Dometic Santorini FTK 4X8 TC Inflatable Tent

$1,420.00

Out of Stock

View Product

When it comes to 2-room family tents, the Santorini FTK TC stands in a league of its own. Despite the scepticism around inflatable frames (often thought prone to punctures) versus alloy, steel, or aluminium – Dometic’s air frame technology features a TPU bladder pressure-tested well beyond typical campsite inflation levels, delivering rock-solid reliability in a lightweight package.

With multi-point inflation and a Quickpitch guying system, the Santorini FTK 4X8 TC pitches in seconds, giving the whole family more time to soak up the campsite. The dual-room layout and near-vertical walls maximise livability and offer flexible sleeping arrangements, while mesh panels keep the bugs at bay. Polycotton fabric reduces condensation and regulates interior temperature, and the large rear ventilation panel adds extra airflow for all-round comfort. Plus, the inflatable canopy caters for any family affair – from feeding the kids to a fun night in with friends.

Best for: Families up to four people who want liveability and ease of setup

Best 4 Room Family Tent

OZtrail Fast Frame BlockOut Lumos 12P Tent

$1,049.99

In Stock

View Product

If you need shelter for an army, the OZtrail Fast Frame BlockOut Lumos 12P Tent is the spacious, speedy-setup shelter for big families chasing room to spread out without sacrificing comfort. The enormous four-room footprint delivers separate sleeping zones for the whole crew, plus a fully enclosed front room that doubles as covered storage or an additional bedroom – proving there’s a spot for everyone (and everything).

The Fast Frame system and triple hub design make pitch-up a breeze, while a 150D flysheet with 3000mm waterhead rating and tough Polyoxford PVC floor stand up to whatever the weather throws down. BlockOut technology on the fly blocks 95% of light and reduces internal heat by 10°C for sunrise-defying sleep-ins, integrated dimmable 230-lumen Lumos strip lighting brings customised, zoned ambience to each room, and ClimaTech vents paired with No-See-Um mesh keep the air flowing and the bugs out – making this OZtrail flagship the well-earned go-to for families who need a room for everyone.

Check out the OZtrail Fast Frame Lumos range here >>

Best for: Families seeking the most space and liveability for their dollar

Best Luxury Family Tent

Zempire Pro TM V2 Air Tent

$2,300.00

In Stock

View Product

Taking out top honours as our most luxurious family tent, the Zempire Pro TM V2 Air Tent is the premium air tent for families chasing top-shelf comfort, convenience, and quality at the campsite. Single-point inflation has the entire tent set up in mere minutes from one sole position, delivering both rock-solid stability and more time spent enjoying the indoor space in any outdoor place.

Three-way windows offer effortless control over airflow and privacy, while a multi-bedroom interior with easy-use zip-out inners carves out up to two private crannies – keeping the campsite parties separate from the bedtime ambience. Tinted PVC skylights add a touch of class and a sense of space, the extended awning delivers shaded living for those lazy days, and a torrential rain-tested fly with an 8000mm waterhead keeps the family dry no matter the weather – making this Zempire flagship the undisputed luxury pick for families who like to camp in style.

Best for: Families seeking a tent that feels, looks and performs the best

Best Tent To Grow With Your Family

Zempire Shapeshifter 4 Air Tent Sleeping Module

$1,400.00

Out of Stock

View Product

Probably the best modular family tent system available, the Zempire Shapeshifter 4 Air Tent Sleeping Module is the shapeshifting shelter that grows and adapts with your family. As the foundation of Zempire’s innovative Shapeshifter Series, this sleeping module is the starting point – and from there, the layout is in your hands.

Connect seamlessly via colour-coded zippers to any of the separately available Shapeshifter modules and accessories – including Living Modules, Awning Modules, and Awning Wall Sets – to expand as the kids, gear, or crew grow. Oversized air tubes inflate in under two minutes, the darkened bedroom pod accommodates sleep-ins, and near-vertical walls deliver generous head height inside. With a PFAS-free Aeroweave canvas fly, 6000mm waterhead rating, and configurable one or two-bedroom layout – this Zempire flagship is the well-earned go-to for families who want a tent that evolves with them.

See the full range of shapeshifter modules here >>

Best for: Families wanting a modular tent that will adapt to your family needs

Best Compact Family Tent

Zempire Aerospeed 10 Air Tent

$1,200.00

In Stock

View Product

A small vehicle shouldn’t preclude you from taking your family camping. The Zempire Aerospeed 10 Air Tent is the pack-light, pitch-fast shelter for families chasing big-tent comfort without the big-tent bulk. Weighing in at just 15.5kg and folding down to a compact 59 x 33 x 36cm carry bag, this 10-person air tent slots neatly into the back of the car – leaving more room for the rest of the camping kit.

Single-point inflation has the entire tent set up in under two minutes, while lightweight-but-tough aluminium brow poles promote near-vertical walls for room to move and 205cm of head height inside. Front and rear doors with protected awning spaces provide flexible access and ventilation, the easy-attach dividing curtain splits the space into two rooms, and the eco-friendly Dura-Core fly and 5000mm waterhead floor keep the family dry – making this Zempire flyweight the well-earned go-to for families who want maximum space in minimum pack size.

Best for: Compact car setups or anyone wanting to trim bulk and weight

Best Family Touring Tent

Oztent RV-5 Plus Canvas Touring Tent

$1,699.00

In Stock

View Product

When you’re combining family camping with outback touting, the Oztent RV-5 Plus Canvas Touring Tent is the rapid-deploy, road-ready shelter for families chasing the open track without the setup hassle. Famous for its 30-second pitch, the strong aluminium frame can be assembled or packed away by one person in less than half a minute – so when the kids are tired and the campsite’s waiting, you’re not.

Built from durable 8oz ripstop polycotton canvas with a heavy-duty 510g PVC tub floor and a 210T silver-coated polyester fly, the RV-5 Plus is tough enough to handle the rigours of the road and the unpredictability of the great outdoors. A SkyMesh skylight built into the roof unzips for an insect-free view of the stars and added ventilation on warm nights, while the large attached awning carves out a dedicated living space outside the sleeping zone. Compatible with the wider Oztent ecosystem of side panels, connectors, and tag-alongs – this tent is part of the Oztent RV range that has become the go-to for families hitting the dirt and going the distance.

See the full range of Oztent tents & accessories here >>

Best for: Families on the move who need durability, reliability and ease of setup at the expense of extra weight and bulk

Best Four Season Family Tent

BlackWolf Turbo BLK Lite Plus 300 Tent

$1,349.99

In Stock

View Product

Our best family camping tent for anything mother nature throws at it, the BlackWolf Turbo BLK Lite Plus 300 Tent is the all-weather shelter built tough without skimping on livability. A strong 23mm aluminium frame, reinforced pressure points, and a three-pole awning stand firm against the elements, while the 150D polyester fly with 3000mm waterhead and tough 300D Oxford floor with 5000mm waterhead keep the family dry through whatever the seasons throw down.

A triple black PU coating on the inner fly absorbs light and reduces heat for cooler summer days and sunrise-defying sleep-ins, while full ceiling mesh and vented roof panels keep airflow strong and condensation at bay through cooler nights. With a generous 4.8m x 3m sleeping area, 2m head height, and quick-pitch frame for fast setup – this BlackWolf classic is the well-earned go-to for families chasing a tent that handles every season without trading off the room to relax.

See the full range of Black Wolf Turbo Tents & accessories here >>

Best for: Families needing a rugged and liveable tent

Best Affordable Family Tent

OZtrail Tasman 6V Dome Tent

$219.99

In Stock

View Product

It can be expensive setting up a family camping kit, the OZtrail Tasman 6V Dome Tent is the no-fuss, easy-on-the-wallet shelter for families chasing an affordable way into the great outdoors. Sleeping up to six at a squeeze, but four in comfort, the breathable polyester inner and No-See-Um mesh windows keep things cool and bug-free, while the silver-coated fly reflects heat for added comfort in warmer climates.

The classic cross-pole configuration makes setup straightforward and helps prevent water from pooling on the fly, while user-friendly D-shaped doors at both ends allow easy access and ventilation for the whole crew. Internal organiser pockets keep the small stuff sorted, and the handy lantern hook lets you light things up after dark – making this OZtrail classic the well-earned go-to for first-time family campers and weekend warriors alike.

See the full range of OZtrail Tasman tents here >>

Best for: Occasional use or families setting up camp on a budget

Family Tent FAQ’s

The Verdict

From sunrise-defying darkrooms and shapeshifting modular setups to budget-friendly dome classics and tough-as-nails touring tents, this year’s line-up proves there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to family camping. What works for a weekend getaway in the caravan park might not cut it for a fortnight off the bitumen – and that’s exactly why our list spans the full spectrum.

The good news? Every tent on this list has earned its spot through real customer feedback, in-store conversations, and the kind of trial-by-Aussie-weather that only our campers can deliver. Whether you’re chasing your first family-friendly setup, upgrading to something more luxurious, or future-proofing as the kids and gear pile grow – the right tent is on this list, waiting for its next adventure.

Still not sure which one suits your crew? Drop into a Snowys store, give our team a call on 1300 914 007, or jump into the Snowys Camping Banter Facebook group where thousands of fellow campers share their real-world experiences. From our family to yours – happy camping!

The post Best Family Camping Tents in 2026 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Where sand can be removed almost immediately – sunburn stings, lingers, and can spoil a summer. The only thing that should fry when the weather heats up is a snag on the BBQ.

With hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses – adequate shelter should be top priority on those low-tide days of sand, surf, and rays. To stay hot on it like sunshine on a shade, we’ve collated our top 10 sellers in the beach shelter category for the past year, from your pop-up huts to the opened-up setups. With a range of colours, styles, and prints available too, your seaside, summertime setup just got 10 shades brighter!

We’ve collated our top 10 sellers in the beach shelter category for the past year, from your pop-up huts to the opened-up setups!

10. Hollie & Harrie Sombrilla Moana Beach Shade

If style matters as much as shade, this one’s hard to overlook. The Sombrilla Moana sports a classic navy stripe and 420D polyester fabric with 95% UV protection — tested by ARPANSA, so it’s not just a marketing claim. Three sets of eyelets let you adjust the pitch as the sun moves, and rust-resistant aluminium poles keep it solid in a breeze. Packs down to 100 x 20 x 10cm in a matching zippered carry bag with shoulder straps. A great pick if you want something that looks as good as it functions.

Hollie & Harrie Sombrilla Moana Beach Shade Hello Sailor

$159.00

Out of Stock

View Product

9. Explore Planet Earth Speedy Pop-Up Sunshelter Family

So your Dad can assemble an awning, rustle up kick-butt barbecue grub, and probably produce the best campfire damper – but when it comes to pitching a tent in soft sand and erratic wind, he’s useless.

Well, the clever Speedy Family Pop-Up Sun Shelter from Explore Planet Earth is the beach tent henchman he’s always wanted but too proud to request!

With an instant, pop-up design, the Speedy Family Pop-Up Sun Shelter shields the fam from the harsh Aussie sun with a UPF 50+ rated fabric. A zippered back panel delivers both additional protection when closed and optimal ventilation when opened, including a detachable floor for sitting on too. 

As easy to set up as it is to pack down, its durable frame boasts a non-corrosive spring steel frame with pegs and a sandbag anchor included for stability too. Plus, built-in sand and storage pockets keep small items at hand.

Explore Planet Earth Speedy Pop-Up Sunshelter Family

$104.90

In Stock

View Product

8. Zempire Speedbase 2 Air Shelter

Whether you’re a family of river rats or beach bums, the Speedbase Air Shelter by Zempire is your most trusted travelling tent!

Quick to go up and even faster to come down, it features tow external inflation/deflation valves for swift setup and pack-down. The dome design resists windy conditions and pairs seamlessly with Zempire Air tents. Inbuilt upper expel vents minimise condensation, while the solution-dyed 75D canopy provides reliable shade. Its inflatable airframe with dome cross-over poles guarantees stable construction 2.6m x 2.6m of undercover space, complete with glow zip pullers and high-vis webbing for lantern attachment.

Zempire Speedbase 2 Air Gazebo

$900.00

In Stock

View Product

7. Darche KOZI Series Compact Shelter

Designed with an easy, instant frame featuring quick-release buttons, you’ll be set up fast and packed down faster. Large enough to accommodate the whole family, it meanwhile folds into a lightweight, compact size for easy storage in your vehicle.

Large enough to accommodate the whole family!

The Kozi boasts a 150D PU coated polyester with a 600mm waterhead rating, and a 22mm powder-coated steel frame for robust durability. Roof vents allow for added ventilation, while built-in sand pockets are perfect for the beach – complete with steel pegs, guy ropes, and a carry bag.

This item is no longer ranged by Snowys.

6. Beachkit Australia Rainbow 240cm Beach Umbrella

This lightweight yet robust design sports a classic 420D mildew-resistant polyester that’s UPF50+ rated to block at least 98% of harmful UV rays, as tested by ARPANSA. Two-piece anodised non-rust poles and quality flexible fibreglass ribs support the canopy, providing family-sized shade with serious style. The oversized two-piece vented top helps prevent your tropical paradise from taking flight during gusty afternoons, while the rainbow design makes it easy to locate your spot on the sand after cooling off int he water.

This item is no longer ranged by Snowys.

5. OZtrail 4.2 Shade Dome Deluxe with Sunwall

For roughing it out rural or just the backyard barbeques – the 4.2 Shade Dome Deluxe with Sunwall by OZtrail throws serious shade without the attitude!

For roughing it out rural or just the backyard barbeques!

From downpour to drought, the full steel frame supports a silver PU-coated 150-denier canopy blocking up to 98% of UV rays while resisting rain with seam-sealing and 1000mm water rating. Steel shock-cord poles enable easy two-person setup in minutes, while the zippered roof vent controls airflow on humid days. Storage pockets keep wallets, keys, and phones nearby, plus the additional sunwall provides extra protection from UV, wind, or prying eyes. Complete with a 600-denier wheeled carry bag for effortless transport.

OZtrail Deluxe 4.2 Shade Dome with Sunwall

$329.99

In Stock

View Product

4. Oztent Malamoo 2- and 4-Hub Beach Shelter

From lazy afternoons to lagoons and hazy Malibu – the Malamoo 2- and 4-Hub Beach Shelters by Oztent are convenient, compact, and protective. 

Designed to hold up in harsh Australian conditions. Image: Oztent

Constructed from 190T polyester with UPF50+ protection, this shelter is designed to hold up in harsh Australian conditions. Using rapid hub technology, the frame is easily erected by popping out the two hubs for the ultimate shelter set-up in seconds. A large floor allows plenty of space to lounge, while an extra-large entrance provides both easy access and windows for airflow.

Designed to be compact, lightweight, and easy to carry – keep it in the back boot for spontaneous beach days and seaside getaways.

Oztent Malamoo 4-Hub Beach Shelter

$169.90

In Stock

View Product

3. Outdoor Connection Fiesta Sun Shelter

This lycra-clad legend sports UPF50+ rating to fend off harsh sun rays, with a setup so simple even the kids can claim bragging rights. Just lay it out, fill the bags with sand, stretch the fabric, slide the poles up underneath and Bob’s your uncle! Two non-rusting aluminium poles won’t throw in the towel when the salt air hits, while four pegs tackle hard surfaces like concrete warriors. Whether you’re making waves at the beach, basking in backyard bliss, or claiming prime real estate at the park, this shelter’s got your back… front, sides, and top!

This shelter’s got your back… front, sides, and top!

Outdoor Connection Fiesta Sun Shelter Large Blue

$111.90

In Stock

View Product

2. OZtrail 4.2 BlockOut Shade Dome with Sunwall

The 4.2 BlockOut Shade Dome with Sunwall by OZtrail throws serious shade without the attitude!

The BlockOut coated, seam-sealed, heavy-duty canopy blocks direct sunlight and reduces heat, supported by a full steel frame. In humidity, the zippered roof vent controls airflow while a 1000mm water rating resists rain on the damper days. Thanks to steel shock-cord poles for an easy two-person set-up in only minutes, you can be settled with a snag by sundown! Storage pockets keep your knick-knacks nearby, including space for wallets, keys, and phones. Plus, bask in those blissful backyard barbeques with an additional sunwall for added protection.

OZtrail 4.2 Blockout Shade Dome with Sunwall

$379.99

In Stock

View Product

1. Event 12 and 15 Sunshelter and Sunwall

At Number 1, transform any outdoor bash into a sheltered sanctuary with Coleman’s Event 15 Deluxe Shelters with Sunwalls!

Where outdoor gatherings meet serious weather-beating coverage!

These expansive shelters command respect with sturdy steel frames and 150D polyester canopies, delivering over 12 or 20 square metres of coverage that puts the elements firmly in their place. Easy Glide frames with pinch-free locking systems make setup so smooth even your least handy mate can claim hero status. Durable guy ropes and pegs anchor down with serious determination, while included sunwalls provide side protection.

Coleman Event 15 Deluxe Shelter + Sunwall

$349.00

Out of Stock

View Product

What does your beachside setup consist of? Let us know in the comments!

The post Best Beach Shelters for 2026 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Our customers have made the decisions. We’re just here to spread the word! Credit: ‘Things Amy Does’

Don’t just take our word for it. A high-performing tent will often receive good reviews. The more favourable the reviews, the more people are inclined to purchase and subsequently review it themselves – thus continuing the cycle. Basically, our customers have made the decisions. We’re just here to spread the word!

This isn’t a ranking of the ten most ‘technical’ tents. There are no hidden agendas or incentives, nor any imitations on price or brand. No strings or guy ropes attached. Instead, we’ve given bias the boot and determined the ten most popular tents by the number of sales, both online and instore at Snowys, over the past 12 months. Each tent falls within the boundaries of standard hiking tent criteria, including weight and dimensions – and while this year’s top contenders almost mirror the last, some have shuffled in the rank.

So – let’s get kicking to the pinnacle!

From trailblazing the ranges by day, to stargazing the milky way by night.

10. Zempire Zeus Hiking Tent

Classically lightweight with space for two, the Zempire Zeus Hiking Tent offers both an entrance and vestibule for each adventurer.

A twin hub pole structure creates near vertical sides and ample internal space as well as a stable free-standing frame. With a full mesh inner, draft panels, highly waterproof floor and rip-stop fly – this tent is built for roughing at the summit with its tough, durable design.

One of the most functional in the Zempire tent range, the Zeus takes every hiker, backpacker, and track lover from mountain crest to much-needed rest!

The Zeus is one of the most functional in the Zempire tent range. Credit: Zempire

9. OZtrail Nomad Hiking Tent

The Nomad Hiking Tent range by OZtrail delivers lightweight, no-fuss shelter for weekend warriors – whether you’re flying solo in the 1P or doubling up in the 2P. Both feature shorter section poles for compact packing, No-See-Um mesh for superior ventilation and bug protection, plus UVTex-coated polyester flies with seam sealing to battle UV rays and rough weather. The 2P boasts dual vestibules and generous doors for easy gear stashing and hassle-free entry, while internal pockets keep your knick-knacks sorted and off the tent floor.

For uncomplicated overnighters and weekend escapes, the OZtrail Nomad range keeps it simple so you can keep slaying the slopes!

Delivering lightweight, no-fuss shelter for weekend warriors!

8. Zempire Atom Hiking Tent

Zempire’s Atom rubs shoulders with the Mono; a similar tent that despite missing out on the rank this year, ensures a minimum weight while maintaining strength and performance in the field.

Both feature the same materials and packed size, with the exception of the Atom’s brow pole allowing for a more comfortable upright position when there’s a need to bunker down in unideal conditions.

The Atom’s brow pole allows for a more comfortable upright position when there’s a need to bunker down in unideal conditions. Credit: Zempire

7. Outdoor Connection Howqua 2 and 3 Hiking Tents

From tearing up the tracks to hitting the sack, the Howqua 2P and 3P tents by Outdoor Connection are the most ideal lightweight tent for the kayakers, backpackers, or motorcycle tourers.

The two-pole design allows more space within the tent, with an inner of polyester and No-See-Um mesh for breathability. Be it pitter-pattering, or pelting – stay protected from rain with a 3000 millimetre waterhead rating, heat-taped seams, and a 75-Denier 210 polyester fly. With space for boots and bags in the the vestibules, enter and exit your personal hikers’ hub from either of the dual doorways.

With a minimalist set-up and a price to match, the Howqua 2P and 3P tents are a tourer’s most trusted travel companion.

The Outdoor Connection Howqua tents are the most ideal lightweight tent for kayakers, backpackers, or motorcycle tourers. Credit: Outdoor Connection

6. BlackWolf Mantis Ultralight 1 and 2 Hiking Tents

Blissful sanctuaries for the solitary soul-searchers on the slopes – the Mantis UL 1 and UL 2 from BlackWolf are ergonomically designed for hiking and backpacking amid weather ranging from mild, to wild!

Both the UL 1 and UL 2 are lightweight models with compact, pack-friendly designs. Their low-profile structures are made for the more rugged outdoor missions, boding well for steadiness in adverse conditions. A waterhead rating of 2000mm on the fly and taped seams battles the brutality of heavy rain. Meanwhile, the vestibule provides the means for additional storage, and the No-See-Um mesh vents double as insect protection and a means of airflow.

The BlackWolf Mantis Ultralight 1 and 2 Hiking Tents are the compact yet roomy choice for the hikers fresh to the tracks and the mountaineers savvy with their money!

Blissful sanctuaries for the solitary soul-searchers on the slopes. Credit: BlackWolf

5. Cradle 1P, 2P, and 3P Hiking Tents

If you like it, hike it – with the Cradle 1P, 2P, and 3P Hiking Tents by Roman, which still camp cosily in our best-sellers list!

A lightweight and compact construction boasts alloy poles with ‘v’ stakes, for security in outdoor serenity! A quick setup design features internal hanging room and colour-coded poles – so you can match, attach, and tip that frothy down the hatch in no time. With ventilation throughout and at the rear, and a generous front vestibule, you’re equipped for lazy lounge-about afternoons post hike. Plus, owing to to compression straps on the carry bag, you can roll over, roll up, and roll on out of camp with tightly bundled hiking clobber!

Keep it kicking on the hike track with the Roman Cradle Hiking Tents, offering a cosy, cot-like nap beating the need for nightcaps!

The Roman Cradle hiking tents offer a cosy, off-track cranny. Image: Roman

4. BlackWolf Grasshopper Ultralight 2 and 3 Hiking Tents

Ranking since 2020, the BlackWolf Grasshopper Ultralight tent is Available in two and three-person variants. While these models have been featured in the BlackWolf range for many years, the brand decided to incorporate the use of lighter-weight fabrics within recent years.

The unique pole structure forms a dome shape with upright sidewalls, allowing for more internal space. With two teardrop-shaped doors and vestibules, the Grasshopper’s inner is constructed entirely from mesh for superior ventilation. Thanks to the colour-coded poles, you can be set up by sundown and packed down by daybreak.

The Grasshopper Ultralight tents by Black Wolf are a lightweight, mid-range option, ideal for use in the warmer and shoulder seasons.

The tent’s unique pole structure forms a dome shape with upright sidewalls, allowing for more internal space. Credit: BlackWolf

3. Cloud Up 1P, 2P, and 3P Hiking Tents

The Cloud Up Hiking Tent range by Naturehike offers lightweight, overnight pods for mountainside nomads – whether flying solo in the 1P, paired up in the 2P, or rolling three-deep in the 3P. All boast superior 7001 aluminium poles, 20D Nylon PU-coated 4000mm waterproof construction, and clever Y-shaped pole systems for efficient 5-minute setup. Dual-layer ventilation with high-density B3 mesh promotes airflow, while generous headroom and vestibule space keep gear sorted.

Complete with footprint, pegs, guy lines, and strapping tape – these cloudlike canopies deliver weightless mountain moments for every lightweight adventure!

Offering lightweight, overnight pods for mountainside nomads!

2. Companion Pro Hiker 2 Tent

Crowned number 1 in 2022, the Companion Pro Hiker 2 Tent has remained at number 2 for 3 years running in yet another alarming 2025 rank review!

Despite discontinuing the one- and three-person models, Companion has maintained this two-person design – along with its near-perfect 5-star ratings. A traditional dome style tent, the Pro Hiker 2 features dual doors and vestibules. By no means is it the lightest tent, nor does it offer as much internal space as some of its corrivals – but it remains both a reliable and affordable performer. With a robust floor, an inner constructed of three-season mesh and polyester, and alloy poles – the Pro Hiker 2 is conveniently furnished with roof vents, organiser pockets, and a gear loft for storage.

The Companion Pro Hiker 2 is where lightweight functionality reaches a crossroad with door-busting durability – at an affordable price. 

The Companion Pro Hiker 2 is where lightweight functionality reaches a crossroad with door-busting durability – at an affordable price. Credit: Companion

1. Explore Planet Earth Spartan 1, 2, 3, and 4 Hiking Tents

The Spartan Hiking Tent range by Explore Planet Earth delivers the most butt-kicking blend of quality and affordability – bringing them to number 1 for yet another year! Perfect for adventurers who won’t drop serious coin on more glamorous gear – whether flying solo in the 1P, doubling up in the 2P, going three-deep in the 3P, or rolling crew-deep in the 4P – these tents pack serious punch without breaking the bank! All feature 4000mm waterproof rating, UV50+ protection, No-See-Um mesh doors for superior ventilation, and aluminium alloy poles with speed clip systems for easy setup.

From first-time hikers to seasoned trail blazers, the Spartan range takes eager adventurers from the metropolitan maze to the trails primed to blaze!

The EPE Spartan 2P and 3P tents boast the most butt-kicking blend of quality and affordability. Credit: Explore Planet Earth

We’ve got to mention these guys…

Sea to Summit Alto and Telos Ultralight Tents

They’re the gear guru’s choice for gold on those off-grid getaways – and they just missed out on the top ten best-sellers list for the past 12 months!

A lightbar offers a point to attach a headlamp for late-night ‘tent-ertainment’ too. Credit: Sea to Summit

Despite their weightless designs, the Alto and Telos series tents by Sea to Summit boast longevity. Standing up to the rough and tumble of outdoor adventuring, their superior performing materials include DAC poles, robust YKK zippers, and 7-series aluminium hardware.

The seam-taped, PU-coated rainfly can be assembled before the tent itself to ensure a dry setup and pack-down – and for the Telos, ‘hangout mode’ incorporates pair of separately available trekking poles to convert the rainfly into a half-open shelter. A lightbar offers a point to attach a headlamp for late-night ‘tent-ertainment’ too, with the option to secure the tent pole storage pouch to the apex for a softer light. Plus, enjoy three gear storage pockets for the valuables that transform into three stuff sacks through Sea to Summit’s FairShare, split-load storage system.

A tension ridge creates more head-and-shoulder space, greater vestibule area, and higher doorways for easy entry and exit, while colour-coded poles and pole feet bring home that quick-clicking and a butt-kicking blend of lightweight and durable. Plus, Ground Control Light tent pegs, guy lines, and custom attachment toggles ensure a steadfast setup.

Ben and Lauren discuss the range with Ross Smith from Sea to Summit on the Snowys Camping Show:

Both the Alto and the Telos tents are compatible with separately available accessories such as footprints and gear lofts, and also available in a bikepacking design for those two-wheeled adventures. Below, our very own Ben takes us through the features of Sea to Summit’s Alto Ultralight Tent and the Telos TR Ultralight Tent:

Were you surprised at this year’s top 10? Let us know in the comments!

The post The Best Hiking Tents for 2025 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Ask Google about tent pegs, however, and the result is an excess of choices – many of which appear over-engineered and highly priced. If I was genuinely looking for new tent pegs, I would have felt overwhelmed and reverted to buying something similar to the pegs I am trying to replace. At Snowys, we often address the question of whether additional pegs are required when purchasing a tent. We also recommend which are the best tent pegs to replace those old battered lengths of steel that now better resemble some form of modern art.

So, I thought I would outline eight basic and reasonably priced peg styles that will cover most conditions the average camper will find themselves in – all of which have kept my shelters secure for decades of camping adventures.

The difference between the pegs that come with the Coleman Instant Up 6, compared to Poles Apart Galvanised Steel Peg.

1. Steel Pegs

Tough and Affordable

Steel pegs are tough, and good ‘extras’ to have in your camping arsenal for securing large items (such as tarps and gazebos) on hard and rocky ground.

The 8mm version of this peg is slightly more robust than the average tent peg found in mid to high-end tents, while the 11.2mm pegs are for big shelters on firm ground.

Their construction is just as the title suggests: steel. No galvanised or zinc coating either, so they will rust over time if left exposed to moisture.

Three sizes of the classic Steel Tent Peg – perfect to keep on hand in your camping kit. 

2. Galvanised Steel Tent Pegs

Long Lasting

In most cases, these will be the closest equivalents to the pegs that came with your tent. The 4mm size is akin to pegs found in low to mid-priced tents, while the 6.3mm sizes are much like the pegs included with most family tents.

These pegs have a galvanised coating too, which means they won’t rust and are easier to find if they get dropped! They are great replacements or ‘extras’, and best suited for medium to firm ground such as in caravan parks, or grassed campsites.

Versatile, strong, and with a range of sizes – the Galvanised Steel Pegs from Poles Apart are a winner!

3. Plastic Sand Pegs

Lightweight

When it comes to sand and loose surfaces, these are the pegs we recommend. They can be a little bulky in your kit, but are light and provide good holding power in soft ground. The shorter versions suit pop-up beach shelters, while the longer styles are for wind catching shelters, tarps, and gazebos.

These pegs are designed with both a hook and loop on the end, where the loop is particularly useful for use at the beach in securely tying the guy rope to the peg. This makes it easy to find, as it will always be at the end of the rope!

Their rounded tops also mean that there’s less of a chance for your kids to cut their feet while chasing each other around the shelter.

Poles Apart Plastic Pegs are perfect for anchoring different sized shelters on the beach or soft ground. 

There’s more tent peg talk where this came from, on the Snowys Camping Show:

4. Aluminium Sand & Snow Pegs

Lightweight Holding Power

Aluminium sand and snow pegs do a similar job to the plastic sand pegs mentioned above. The great part about these is that they all nest together neatly. They are good for anyone needing the holding power of a large sand peg, but have limited storage space in a pack or kayak.

The curved shaft features a number of holes that increase holding power, especially in snow, while the two sizes cater for both small and large shelters.

The downside? They are a tad more expensive than the plastic alternatives, and are best suited to those with a specific need.

Lightweight yet sturdy options for alpine or sandy conditions, or where space in your pack is scarce. 

5. Aluminium Angle Pegs and Anchor Pegs

Tough & Lightweight

These are great alternatives to the pegs that come with lightweight tents. I have had a handful of these for over a decade, and am yet to bend one. They feature a 90-degree angle shaft that provides exceptional strength and holding power in medium to firm ground. Plus, they all stack neatly together, so are easy to pack into a rucksack.

The Supa Peg Ground Anchor pegs are a unique style, designed to push the peg deeper into the ground when the rope pulls against it. Hammered flat into the ground, their bright orange is also highly visible. When it’s time to pack up, they’re also easy to remove with a peg puller.

Steel Sand Pegs for anchoring a shelter on soft to medium ground & Aluminium Angle Pegs for lightweight tents. 

6. Steel Sand Pegs

Alternatives to Provided Tent Pegs

The unique steel hook on the end of this style enables the wide-shafted sand peg to be used with small loops or eyelets, ideal for holding down the base of a side wall on a gazebo. You can also use them on the walls of a tent awning, or to anchor a tarp set up as a wind break.

It would be worth adding 4-8 of these to your camp kit. They are also great alternatives as the key anchor points of your tent, like guy ropes when setting up camp on soft to medium ground.

Sea to Summit Ground Control Pegs – the luminous pull string prevents midnight stumbles, and the multiple anchor points help secure guy ropes. 

7. Sea To Summit Ground Control Pegs

Lightweight Performance

There are many of this sort of peg on the market. All of them claim to be the best – but in my experience, they are all pretty good. The main thing to look out for is the quality of alloy. These are made of one of the good alloys, 6061-T6 to be precise, with an anodised coating to prevent corrosion.

Now, I’m not going to say these are necessarily the best – but for a tent peg, they do have a couple of cool features!

Firstly, the little pull string has a luminescent segment so you can locate it at night. Secondly, they feature multiple anchor points, so you can secure the guy rope closer to the ground if you can only get it so far in.

Available individually, as a pack of six, or a pack of eight, the Sea to Summit Ground Control Pegs are ideal for lightweight hike tents.

Ben and Lauren also discuss the best tent pegs for hiking and lightweight adventures on the Snowys Camping Show podcast:

Keep pegs in a few sizes and materials to make sure you’re equipped for a range of conditions.

8. Drillable Tent Pegs

Taking the Strain out of Setup!

Drillable pegs are also an option for those who want to be able to set up their tent quickly and easily without the strain on your knees or back.

These can be inserted easily inserted and removed with help from a drill or impact driver, which is particularly useful to use with larger tents or shelters or for camping on hard ground. This style of peg is significantly dearer than your standard options, but prove to be super popular for those who want to spend less time setting up, and more time enjoying the outdoors.

If you want to see how to use drillable tent pegs, then hit the play button above.

Check out the STEADFAST range by Tiegear – including the Hard and Soft Terra Screw pegs, as well as the Hard Terra Lite model.

While the Hard Terra sports a forged 304 stainless steel construction, the Soft boasts a UV-stabilised, engineering-grade reinforced nylon for robust yet flexible strength. Both models are designed to to stand up to harsh Aussie climates and rough outdoor use, each featuring a 19mm, double-hooked heads for compatibility and easy alignment with multiple tie-down directions. Meanwhile, the reinforced nylon Hard Terra Lite is of a smaller, slimline, and sleek design, and is often applied in harder-to-reach places (such as rocks and debris) for a reliable hold. 

The reinforced nylon Hard Terra Lite is often applied in harder-to-reach places for a reliable hold. 

So… should you buy additional pegs for your new tent?

If you’re buying a mid to high-end tent, the pegs that come with the tent will mostly suit the average grassed or dirt campground with medium to hard ground.

For campers with sandy or particularly rocky campgrounds in their sights, it’s worth adding 6-10 suitable pegs as described above for use on key anchor points, to ensure your shelter stays upright during your stay.

It’s never a bad thing to be too prepared. What else do you keep in your arsenal for pitching in difficult conditions? 

The post 8 Tent Pegs to See You Through Every Season appeared first on Snowys Blog.

We see you. We hear you.

As heard in Episodes 65 and 66 of the Snowys Camping Show, your trusted Snowys gear experts Ben and Lauren answer more of your campsite questions in the second and final part of our Campsite Q&A’s blog series.

Your trusted Snowys gear experts Ben and Lauren answer more of your campsite questions. Image: Coleman

Gear and Maintenance

Essentials for Beach Camping, and Tips for Keeping the Sand out of the Swag / Tent?

To first address sand, Ben and Lauren recommend a mesh ground sheet which, while expensive, is worth the investment. Double-layered, the mesh allows for any sand on top to fall through without resurfacing, ensuring a sand-free environment. These ground sheets were initially invented as portable helipads, designed to be positioned on loose desert surfaces to prevent sand from blowing and flicking upwards as the helicopter lands. OZtrail manufacture a less expensive model, which still adequately serves the same purpose.

Lauren also recommends EVA foam floor mats at the doorway, and a dustpan and brush to sweep away sand from legs and feet. A Muk Mat – a large, well-finished slab of Astro Turf – works wonders in sandy, beachy environments too. Lauren also suggests washing away the grit and debris in a tub of water, large enough for someone to stand in. Ultimately, allocating a ‘zone’ nearby your setup to clean away sand before entering the living area is the suggested approach. Sand in a tent and living space is often only a problem if we allow for it to build up – so control it from the beginning! 

Broadly speaking, beach camping also requires some sort of wind management. That said, setting up a wind break in sandy environments can encourage sand to whip upwards in a whirlwind. To control this, Ben and Lauren recommend choosing tents with fine mesh, and sealing windows and openings during the day to prevent sand from making its way into bedding.

Lastly, adequate sand pegs and guy ropes are paramount when beach camping, as well as trace springs for added stability in windier conditions.

Securing Food from Pests?

…Try literally anything.

In a previous podcast episode, Ben and Lauren detail how to manage critters and pests at the campsite.

Ultimately, they recommend Tupperware that seals tight. Ben is content with leaving unopened food packets in a tub with the lid sitting on top. On the other hand, opened packets should be kept in an airtight container to prevent ants from making their way in.  

In Ep53 – Kangaroo Island, Lauren describes the relentless possum raids as a result of leaving her doors open at night. Generally though, she manages well by keeping her food in storage draws under the bed and recommends solid plastic tubs. Even for a grain of rice, mice will chew through soft silicon and thin plastics, so be aware of the quality of your storage options too. Again, Ben can advocate for this in Ep44 – Ben’s Half Lap, where he resorts to creating a trash contraption mouse trap to catch a critter than chewed its way into his 4WD!

For the unique nomads who hoped for more than just ‘use good storage containers’ – ever tried suspending your food from a tree using squat straps? Learn more about this in Ep57 and Ep96 on Weird and Wonderful Camping Gear!

Can you repair a sleeping mat if it leaks at the seams or valves – and if so, how?

Ben and Lauren have recorded a video that lives on the Snowys YouTube channel, elaborating on material relevant to this question – though not in detail.

Usually, only a leak via a seam or valve is guaranteed under warranty. This is because inconsistencies or fissures at these points are more than likely attributed to manufacturing faults. Ben and Lauren recommend getting in touch with the retailer of your defective sleeping mat to receive a warranty assessment.

While not the prettiest fix, Ben suggests Stormsure adhesive or seam grip glue to mend your mat DIY-style. Specifically, heavily smother the hole before spreading the glue at length along each side to create a seal. For an even stronger hold, apply the glue to a nylon ripstop-type material (from a place like Spotlight), as a foundation. This works particularly well with longer tears; Ben recommends incorporating fabric or gauze in and amongst the glue by placing a large strip over the top of the gash. When stretched, the fabric separates – but the seam grip covers it.

Personal camping essentials, upgrades, original gear, current gear, and reasons behind any alterations?

Before we unpack this question – yes, Ben. We get it. You love your coffee kit bag.

As much as this is true, Ben points out that he considers ‘personal camping essentials’ the items that mostly sit beneath the ‘hygiene’ and ‘medication’ umbrella. Lauren rarely washes her hair on a camping trip, instead relying on Sea to Summit’s Wilderness Wash as both soap and body wash. Other essentials include her quality base layers and socks, sheep skins to drape over her camp chairs for warmth, Crocs (which she insists are the most bomb-proof, ideal footwear to slip on and off around the campsite), a head torch, and a bird book with binoculars to watch and learn of the pretty birdlife that often surrounds her on her travels.

On the other hand, Ben reveals the gear he’s replaced over the years. He now avoids rounder table lanterns and instead opts for 12V LED strips or hanging lights, having decided that they light his table setup more effectively. As well as lighting, Ben has reconsidered how he operates his stove, now opting for multi-fuel over gas. Unlike large, heavy gas bottles, multi-fuel systems are easy to transport and assemble, eliminating the need for hoses and other accessories. While it may take longer, Ben confirms that this is the trade-off he’s willing to sacrifice. His cast iron camp oven – whilst a favourite – is also soon to be replaced by one of spun steel for both weight and portability reasons. Lastly, he’s removed his awning from his 4WD. This was after deciding it was too tedious to set up and take down on trips where he was driving more frequently than he was pulling over. It now sits in his shed at home… and he doesn’t miss it!

Ben now avoids table lanterns and instead opts for 12V lighting. Image: Hard Korr

Lauren hears of new and improved gear through the grapevine from as often as monthly to even weekly. For this reason, her setup reflects constant evolution as opposed to a ‘before and after’ project. An example of this is her transition from a Waeco 45-litre fridge to a myCOOLMAN dual zone 85-litre fridge, after discovering more room in her van to store it. Now in the process of fitting out their camper van, she reflects on why she didn’t consider two drawer fridges to stack on top of one another – an arrangement she’s keen to progress to when the vehicle renovations are done. The drawer fridges she’s interested in are 10 centimetres wider than the current fridge, but are stackable and each capable of running as either a fridge or freezer.
Overall, settling on a sprinter van instead of a 4WD or caravan – as much as Lauren and her partner love it – has its limitations. Lacking features such as 4WD access or adequate clearance can sometimes be more significant issues than not, especially when she plans to go far beyond her backyard and get wild! As a result, Lauren finds herself wondering what she may opt for further down the line, and what differences it will pose regarding setup. Better or worse – at the end of the day, the grass will always seem greener.

Advice on Tent Security (and Storing Spare Keys)?

The simple answer is: don’t keep your keys in your tent.

With his minimalist setup, Ben has spent many camping trips probably appearing as one of the less wealthy campers at the campsite – which likely explains why he’s yet to be robbed! In some ways, locking everything away can suggest that you have something to steal.

An effortless solution is to not store valuables inside the tent, where Ben tends to only leave his bedding. While there’s always a chance, the likelihood that his sleeping bag will be stolen is relatively low, with fewer repercussions if it was over his wallet or phone.

As for Lauren, theft has never been on her radar. In her experience, there’s an unspoken rule in the camping community to not steal from other setups. Ben admits that National Park spaces are relatively theft-free, though some caravan parks in particular are more prone to it. This is often not as malicious as it is purely opportunistic; young, ratbag kids are usually just out for a thrill, looking to snatch up some loose change or something valuable. This is often the case in most areas alike.

Ultimately, the chance of theft at a campground depends on its location. To address any concerns you may have, simply lock your vehicle and avoid leaving loose change or valuables in exposed places. For instance: at night, Ben tends to store his car keys in the small internal tent pocket just above his head.

Gazebos – Necessary Additional Family Shelter, or Storage Space Waster?

The short answer? It depends on who you are, the storage space you have, and the nature of your desired setup.

For a more detailed response, Ben and Lauren cover relevant information extensively in Ep7 – Gear You Don’t Need for Camping and Ep59 – Shelters for Rainy Days.

What is Safer: to Keep Your Lithium Battery (Plugged Into Solar Panels and a Fridge) in a 6 x 4  Trailer, a Tent, or on a Blanket on the Ground?

If the battery is lithium, it’s generally safe either way.

On the other hand, other lead acid batteries (including sealed) emit hydrogen and generally don’t operate well in extreme temperatures, so best kept in a ventilated space. Keeping it by your fridge shouldn’t be a concern in this regard, as the fridge itself also requires adequate aeration due to its compressor.

Albeit, Ben and Lauren aren’t experts on batteries. Initially, they suggest using common sense; keeping a hot battery close beside you within a tent isn’t ideal! Those who are still unsure should note the warnings in the instruction manual of their respective power station (for instance, the Companion Lithium Rover), or talk to the experts (e.g. Battery World).

Items you Thought Would be Useless but Were Useful, and Vice-Versa?

For Ben, he never expected to need a paintbrush on a road trip – but has found it useful in sweeping away dust and debris from his car or tent interior, especially in outback travelling!

On the other hand, the few opportunities he’s found to use his awning don’t warrant transporting it about as often as he once did. For this reason, it now lives packed away in his shed indefinitely. As well as this, he’s allocated his ‘Grandpa Fork’ to the box of untouched tackle. The tool is simply a fork-like piece that attaches to the end of a stick, designed for toasting marshmallows. While Lauren thinks they’re a nifty invention, Ben would rather just use a stick…

For Lauren, her set of four collapsible tubs are the most unexpectedly delightful addition to her camp clobber. She uses them regularly, and plans to soon purchase another set.

As for the presumably great gadgets that have turned out to be sub-par, she keeps a large collection of items alike in her shed which simply haven’t suited her setup as much as she initially thought. At this stage, nothing in particular springs to mind – but keep an eye out on the Snowys Camping Show Facebook group while she sets this question aside to marinate…

Ben finds he doesn’t use his awning enough to warrant transporting it around as often as he does. Image: Darche

Camping, Caravanning, and 4WDing

Funniest Camp Fail?

… On par with Ben’s ‘green ant’ story, as told in Episode 44? Lauren may just match it.

There’s a place she and her family love to go, the track to which is recommended for 4WDs only – especially when wet. That said, Lauren claims her Sprinter van can tackle more than one may think… but in this instance, these were her famous last words.

Lauren and her family were due to meet with another two groups. Given the substantial room in her vehicle compared to others, she was transporting enough gear for six people – plus more to lessen the load for other families. This added significantly more weight to the van… which didn’t bode well on the track after recent rainfall. When they approached the track, it was a slurry of cold, grey mud. By the time they realised it wasn’t a good idea to proceed, it was too late to turn back!

Initially, they were hopeful… before the van began to slip and slide perilously in the sludge. Eventually, they were left steadfast in sticky mud, stranded in the middle of the Riverland. The sun had set; it was 9:30pm. Lauren directed the kids to toddle off into the inky blackness with a torch to find help, while she and her partner began the exhaustive process of attempting to nudge the van, stubbornly wedged in the thick mud.

After some time, their friend arrived, and together they discovered the root of the problem; the vehicle’s diff was lodged firmly into a large lump of clay. To first alleviate some of the weight, Lauren had the kids carrying camp clobber from the van to the campsite, piece by piece like a row of ants. Next, her partner stripped down to only his shorts and primely positioned himself well underneath the van. The track soon became a mucky mess of footprints as Lauren’s family gathered sticks, logs, and debris to dig away at the diff buried deep in the sludge.

Time moved fast – but the van remained resolute. By midnight, Lauren and her crew attempted one last tactic. After removing the wheel, they packed in the space underneath with sticks and bark, inserted the jack, and pushed as hard as they could while one of them took the driver’s seat. Eventually, Lauren and her family were a wholesome blend of filthy, relieved – and with a vehicle in motion!

For a camp fail equally as chaotic involving a snake, a floating tent, and a mass of green ants – check out Ep44 – Ben’s Half Lap.

Practicality of Extended Overland Trips in an SUV/Wagon/Car, Versus the More Built-Out 4WDs/RVs/Camper Vans/Caravans?

The key consideration that distinguishes one from the other is preparation. Travelling in a 4WD, RV, or camping vehicle requires less given that, in many ways, they already account for half of your setup. With an SUV or smaller vehicle, space is more limited.

As much as it bodes well to first do your research before purchasing a more built-out camper van, don’t let your current wagon or car be a roadblock to hitting the road and seeing the sights. While it may not be wise to travel through the Bungle Bungles in a Sedan, there is still so much to see and do in the great outdoors without a 4WD setup.

Do Either of you Own a Camper Trailer or a Caravan? What are Your Hacks?

Ben and Lauren do not – but Snowys’ resident caravanning expert, Kevin, certainly does!

Kevin has frequently featured in episodes of the Snowys Camping Show, such as Caravan Water Tanks 101, Caravan Refrigeration, and Caravanning the Oodnadatta Track. Given how many caravanning hacks there are, Ben and Lauren suggest advising us of any specifics for Kevin to address from his fountain of knowledge.

Travelling in a 4WD requires less preparation given that, in many ways, they already account for half of your setup! Image: Darche

What are the essential spare items that Kev would take for extended caravan travelling, off-road?

We’ve addressed this in detail in Episode 68 with our caravanning expert, Kev.

While the list extends further, and excludes the various considerations and details depending on the off-road situation – Kev recommends the following as a guide:

• A standard toolkit
• Wheel bearings
• A hub seal
• Irrigation joiners, straights, and elbows etc. for the hoses and connectors beneath the van
• Two spare wheels, as well as plugs for any minor punctures
• Turn buckles and chains to secure broken springs and axels (this becomes complicated, and depends on the situation!)
• A roll of duct tape, insulation tape, and wire
• Replacement fuses to suit those existing in your car or caravan
• So much more!

Food

Favourite Meal to Cook When Camping / Meal Ideas?

Ben and Lauren elaborate on relevant information throughout both Ep2 – Tips for Keeping Camping Food Fresh, Ep13 – Camping on a Budget, and Ep27 – Camp Kitchen Essentials.

In addition to this specific content, Lauren confirms that her favourite camping food – especially in Winter –  is a cooked brekky. For her, nothing beats smoky bacon, eggs, and charred toast by the campfire coals first thing in the morning!

On the other hand, Ben tends to cook modified versions of the meals he eats at home. For example, when cooking a pasta at the campsite that would usually include fresh tomatoes, he’d add tinned instead.

Another winner for Ben is damper. A doughy, buttery, body-bolstering blend of simple and versatile – damper requires only staple ingredients, elevated even more with bits and pieces of sweet or savoury. By the same token, a jaffle iron is one of Ben’s favourite appliances at the campsite. As well as cooking mini dampers, Ben uses his iron by pressing dough into the moulds, filling it with either baked beans, chocolate, or other fillings of choice, and toasting to create little dough pouches for his kids to carry around camp.

In the meantime, she suggests preparing as much food in advance as possible. This includes pre-chopping vegetables, and pre-cooking meals to then vacuum-seal and re-heat in boiling water at the campsite. Storing pre-cooked rice and chopped vegetables such as onion, pumpkin, or carrots in vac-sealed bags also keeps food fresh and maintained.

In Lauren’s experience, meal-prepping for only herself and her partner versus her entire family are two very different processes. So again – watch this space for more content specific to this aspect of adventuring!

What are the recommended meal and preparation ideas for camping, specifically for stove cooking?

For a little while, Lauren has been keen to produce an episode purely centred around campsite meals. In it, she’d aim to cover meal planning, preparation, and cooking for camping.

In a previous episode with Dr. Kate Grarock, ‘Food for Adventure’, Ben and Lauren kept the content hiking-focused. Episodes alike include ‘Food for Hiking‘, as well as content that explores camp kitchen essentials and how to keep food fresh. Considering this, Lauren has identified the absence of an episode solely dedicated to recipes and meal ideas.

Fridges

Use-case tips on Dometic icebox sizes – including packing standard-sized items to assess how they fit, and how to subsequently determine a suitable size?

This has been an angle on iceboxes from which both Ben and Lauren have wanted to approach for a little while. In a previous podcast episode, ‘Fridges Vs Iceboxes’, they discuss the pros and cons of each and consequently which option is more suited to various setups.

For now, our gear gurus confirm that it depends on the purpose for which your icebox is being used; be that solely cooling, or in conjunction with a fridge. Granted, a YouTube video on our channel may be the perfect way to further elaborate on this question and demonstrate visually… so for the last time, watch this space!

In a previous podcast episode, Ben and Lauren discuss the pros and cons of both iceboxes and fridges. Image: Dometic

OK, now let’s be real for a second…

Will Snowys ever open a store in Victoria or Sydney?

Unfortunately, this isn’t on the radar. Ben says that Snowys aim to continue to focus on what they do well, as opposed to expanding and subsequently increasing the prices of products. That said – never say never!

Nonetheless, this isn’t a conversation Lauren and Ben are ultimately involved in, instead determined by a higher level of authority.

Do you two each have an Instagram account, so we can see your setups as well?

The short answer is: not really.

Why? Lauren’s answer for Ben is simple: he’s ‘lame’!

Ben’s explanation for his lack of internet sharing is a little more sentimental; when he’s on holiday, he unplugs almost entirely. Instead of watching the number of views rise on his Instagram stories, he watches the view of the sunrise instead. While some reach the end of a demanding day outdoors and choose to take the time to share photos with their family via WhatsApp, Ben watches the sun set instead. On his half-lap across the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ben became so emersed in his surroundings that his wife would update his family for him!

Nonetheless, Ben and Lauren admit that they reference their own setups a lot throughout their Snowys podcasts and content. Those who listen to the Snowys Camping Show podcast have insight into Ben and Lauren’s identities in a work-based capacity, with little reference to their personal life.

Lauren has a personal Instagram account that she rarely uses, but has considered creating one that is more relevant to her camping life for public observation. Where she’ll continue to ponder the idea, Ben is certain that a personal account will be disappointing for his followers due to the simplicity of his setup!

More questions? Hit us up! Image: Sea to Summit

Got a question for Ben and Lauren? Check out Episodes 23, 30, 48, 65, 66, and 92 of the Snowys Camping Show to hear whether it’s already been answered!

The post Campsite Q&A’s (Part 2) appeared first on Snowys Blog.

The first thing you should consider is a groundsheet – sometimes also referred to as a footprint, ground tarp, or floor saver. Call them what you will, but regardless they’re a crucial piece of camping kit. For the sake of this blog, we’ll call them groundsheets.

Groundsheets exist to protect the floor of your tent against everything that nature throws at it – from the ground up! An insurance policy, if you will. You’re much better off financially to replace a groundsheet every so often than your entire Black Wolf Turbo or MSR Hubba Hubba!

They’re often not as cheap as you’d hope – but it certainly does soothe the frustration when faced with damage, in that you only need to replace the groundsheet as opposed to the entire tent or swag.

Groundsheets can do a whole lot more than just protecting the underside of your tent or swag. Image: Oztent

Benefits of a Groundsheet

Groundsheets also assist with waterproofing your tent or swag floor, act as a barrier in wet conditions, preserve the vegetation underneath your swag or tent, act as a wind or weather break, help to prevent condensation, and offer an emergency shelter when needed.

There are many benefits to owning a groundsheet. Image: Coleman

Regulations of Groundsheets

Believe it or not, there are some rules around the use of groundsheets – especially in privately operated caravan parks.

The most common is that groundsheets in some camping and caravan parks can only be made of open-weave shade cloth fabric. This is to allow the grass to breathe and minimise damage. No one enjoys a dusty campsite, and grass does require some upkeep to be maintained.

Some caravan and camping parks are now also asking that you lift or even move your groundsheets (as well as the tent or swag) at frequent intervals, to help maintain the health of the grass.

Mesh groundsheets will be necessary for some places to protect the grass. Image: Black Wolf

Options:

Made-to-Fit

These are groundsheets designed by manufacturers to specifically fit under their compatible tents. In most instances, the groundsheet also fits underneath the awning. Usually made with mesh fabric, some are still only available in solid fabric.

The major benefit here is that you can purchase with confidence, assured of a perfect fit without hassle.

Some of the tents in the current range at Snowys have made-to-fit groundsheets available separately include:

• Black Wolf Turbo tents
• Oztent RV tents
• Zempire Aerodome tents
• Most hiking tents

The Oztent RV1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are models that have made to fit groundsheets available. Image: Oztent

Mesh Style

These groundsheets aren’t made to fit, but rather available in a variety of sizes. This can be a challenge in establishing what groundsheet fits, but also provides some freedom to set it up as you wish.

Made from a heavier-duty shade cloth material, the major benefit to this design is that it allows the grass underneath to breathe, while also allowing moisture, dirt, and debris to fall through. This ensures that the groundsheet won’t start pooling if it rains. They’re also comfortable to walk on.

The only real challenges with these styles are that they aren’t as durable as solid fabrics, a little more expensive, and can be hard to clean.

Currently, there are 3 mesh options available in a range of sizes:

• A durable and almost indestructible C-Gear Multimat
• The popular and affordable Oztrail Ultramesh option
• The versatile and tougher-than-turf L-Shaped Multimat by C-Gear

These are not made for specific tents, but come in a wide range of sizes to suit many popular tents. They’re also commonly used for awning floors, under kids’ pools, as windbreaks and sails, and more. C-Gear’s L-Shaped Multimat is both reversible and rotatable, particularly ideal for use under a 270 or 180 4WD awning.

The Oztrail Ultramesh provides many of the same benefits as the purpose-made footprints, but at a lower price. As for the C-Gear Multimat – heck, they can be used as helipads!

A mesh tarp is probably the most versatile option for a groundsheet. Image: Coleman Australia

Made from a heavier-duty shade cloth material, mesh groundsheets allow moisture, dirt, and debris to fall through. Image: Paul Goodsell

Solid Style

Solid styles aren’t made to fit, but also come in a range of sizes to suit. These aren’t as popular as mesh due to restrictions now placed upon them in caravan and camping parks.

The pros of the solid style groundsheets include that they offer more protection, compared to mesh. They’re also lower in cost, and may provide insulation against the cold ground.

While being a little easier to clean and providing a solid defense, solid groundsheets don’t allow for grass to breathe, can increase the chance of condensation and, worse still, will collect water underneath your tent floor when it rains (as opposed allowing it to fall through). The latter is especially true if you select one that is too large.

At Snowys, the most common style of solid groundsheet available is the humble and multi-purposeful tarp. Nothing is more versatile than a quality tarp (or ‘tarpaulin’). You can use one to waterproof the gear in your trailer or roof rack, then throw it under the tent while you camp. Tarps are available in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and thicknesses.

Solid heavy duty tarps are more hardwearing and offer more protection. Image: Ben Trewren

DIY Groundsheets

The last option for a groundsheet is to get a little creative with items you may already have!

You might have some extra shade cloth, building materials such as Tyvek or plastic, Sisalation (used for insulation), disposed-of curtains, or old pool covers. There are a few possibilities here for you to recycle what you already own. Hikers could consider using items such as an emergency blanket from their first aid kit too.

There are a few possibilities in recycling what you already own. Image: Coleman

A great option is to re-purpose what you already have as a groundsheet. Image: Ben Trewren

Measuring Up for a Groundsheet

A question we get asked a lot here at Snowys is, ‘will this groundsheet fit my tent?’

So, here’s how we figure out whether a groundsheet will work:

1. What Area do You Want to Cover?

You need to first think about what space you want to cover with a groundsheet. The base of the swag or tent is a given, but would you like some protection throughout the awning area(s), or beyond the perimeter of the tent itself?

2. Check Your Tent’s Dimensions

Once you’ve decided on the area you want to cover, look at the external dimensions of your tent. We list these in the ‘specifications’ column on each of our products pages, as well as in the tent floorplan (usually the last image). This will give you an idea of measurements for the area size you want to cover.

Once you’ve seen the sizes available, determine whether you’ll be able to acquire the coverage you’re after with one groundsheet or if you’ll need two or more together.

3. Making It Fit

It’s unlikely you’ll get the perfect fit. You could opt for a slightly smaller size that doesn’t give complete coverage – but while this makes it easy initially, in the long run it leaves your tent exposed to damage.

Alternatively, you could choose a slightly larger size to provide complete coverage. However, you’ll likely need to make some alterations.

You may need to use more than one tarp side by side to achieve a good fit for your shelter. Image: Ben Trewren

Can I Alter my Groundsheet?

We recommend against altering the size of the groundsheet. You’ll risk cutting it crooked, lose valuable coverage for other uses, and remove the reinforced edging (which will cause fraying).

Rather, we’d encourage you to fold the excess underneath the tent, or allow the excess tarp to exceed your tent and peg through the groundsheet.

Pegging through the groundsheet is a common alteration – but to ensure you get it right, here are our tips:

Consider the position of your tent, make the hole, and then reinforce it to prevent fraying. Image: Ben Trewren

How to Properly Peg Through a Groundsheet:

• We recommend laying your groundsheet out, then placing your tent on top of the groundsheet as desired.

• From there, look to peg out the tent as you normally would – but on this occasion, penetrating through the groundsheet.
• Take your time to ensure you only need one attempt at each peg, and only peg what is required.
• Important: you may need to reinforce each hole with tape or brass eyelets to stop it from fraying or continuing to rip. You can do this by using a heavy-duty tape, an adhesive glue, or stitching strong thread around each hole.
• It’s also worth noting on your groundsheet where the front/rear is, so that your tent and holes align next time.

Ben and Lauren discuss groundsheets in Episode 69 of the Snowys Camping Show:

If you have any further questions about protecting your tent, fire away in the comments!

The post Guide to Choosing the Right Size Groundsheet appeared first on Snowys Blog.

From wet weather tips and coffee at the campsite, to the best bags, mending swags, what they can’t camp without, and how to get around – this blog covers the first of a two-part series on the questions asked of our resident gear gurus – Ben and Lauren.

From wet weather tips to coffee at the campsite – read on for answers to some of our most-asked questions! Image: Sea to Summit

Camping

‘What are your favourite items of camping equipment?’

Ben’s favourite is his Aeropress coffee maker and X-Pot kettle from Sea to Summit, plus his solar panels so he can travel further off the grid. Lauren is very fond of her Cecil & Co Campfire Water Boiler which she uses with her 12V shower for steaming hot bush showers, her trusty Scrubba wash bag for cleaning clothes, and her Hillbilly cookstand for campfire cooking.

‘What do you look for when choosing a campsite? Do you have any local favs?’

Lauren admits that she doesn’t like to share her favourite spots, as there have been some great campsites in the past that have become trashed after gaining popularity. In terms of finding a good spot, she says WikiCamps has been helpful as you can filter both your region and requirements. Lauren now looks for bush camps / campsites with minimal amenities, are nearby a water source, offer space for kids to roam, and allow both dogs and campfires (within fire season). Ben largely feels the same, as he prefers more remote camping where there is plenty of space and solitude.

‘It would be cool to see your setups – Ben’s sounds quite interesting.’

You can hear more about Ben and Lauren’s setups in the Episode 71 and Episode 72 of the Snowys Camping Show:

‘There are many women camping solo these days. I am 59, and I would love to know what products make camping easier and safer for me.’

Instant Up Tents are a good example of easy, user-friendly camping gear. Lauren hasn’t solo-camped much in her time, but some contributors in our Facebook group have shared tips like taking an extra chair and leaving an empty can or beer bottle to give the impression of another camper’s presence. Also, having a way to communicate in terms of safety, be that some sort of messenger device to connect with your loved ones or a UHF radio for calling for assistance. This will provide some peace of mind.

‘Tips for taking toddlers camping?’

Having touched on both camping with kids and camping with teenagers, Lauren and Ben maintain their suggestion to allow children the freedom to explore in safe areas (i.e. away from spaces prone to snakes). Navigate the nooks and crannies with them, and foster a respect and wonder for natural environments. 

Along with old, worn clothing, Lauren recommends packing your child/ren a waterproof over-suit for winter camping, thrown on with a pair of gumboots for perfectly protected play among the mud puddles. She also comments that camping in caravan parks often presents more problems than setting up out in the open, where cars and other children tearing up the tracks on bikes can create a cramped and crowded space for toddlers. In the bush, parents can instead establish the clear perimeters their children can roam to, and eliminate any worries about washing. On that, Lauren suggests doubling a trug as both a washing basin and a bath.

For sleeping, Ben recommends creating a barrier either side of your child to prevent them from rolling off their mat. Especially in the winter, waking up in the middle of the night on the cold, hard floor can make defying the outdoors the following day difficult – and in some cases, cause sickness. Additionally, Lauren strongly suggests avoiding kids’ sleeping bags. In her experience, they’ve never offered the same level of warmth, longevity, or adequate length as the adult designs. Instead, simply purchase a standard sized bag, and either fold in half or block off at the end to prevent your pocket-sized humans from slipping too far into the sack.

Oh, and of course – be sure to not to skimp on the snacks!

‘What’s the right way to stake a tent?

Some say 45° away from tent, others 45° toward the tent, and some say vertically. Confusion reigns. For me, it’s critical the tent remains secure in wind!’

The top of the peg should be pointing away from the tent – so when you’re hammering it into the ground, it’s angled away from the tent.

‘On my lap around Australia, what is recommended: ute canopy, camper trailer, or caravan?’

For those travelling as a couple without children, Lauren and Ben suggest using a Ute canopy as opposed to attempting to tow a camper trailer or caravan. Nonetheless, in cases where campers feel comfortable leaving them stationary somewhere for long periods of time, caravans and trailers can provide a roomy, humble alternative.

That said, Ben agrees that an easier-to-set-up sanctuary is more economical and beneficial for a dynamic duo. The money saved on a camper trailer can instead be invested in upgrading your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) to accommodate a substantial rooftop tent. Ben suggests a thorough investigation into the style of rooftop tent you purchase, given some are easy to set up while others require the use of pegs and guy ropes.  

‘Do you consider using a caravan “camping”?’

In short, no – but it doesn’t matter what it’s called, doing what you enjoy is what matters. At the end of the day, it’s still a valuable pursuit. According to the Oxford Dictionary, camping is defined as: ‘The activity of spending a holiday living in a tent’. So, there you have it!

‘What are your thoughts about the future of Australian manufacturing within the camping/hiking and touring sector?’

Both Ben and Lauren believe that it’s important to support Australian-made and Australian-owned companies whenever possible. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted many supply chain issues in every industry, but the market has been that way for quite some time in regards to overseas manufacturing. Keep in mind that just because a product is made offshore doesn’t mean it’s poor quality. Many Aussie family-owned brands choose to manufacture overseas due to the limited options in Australia with technology and machinery, so it’s a complex topic that should be considered from all angles.

Ben and Lauren chat with Laine and Erin Wescombe of Blacksmith Camping Supplies about everything Aussie Manufacturing:

‘Regarding First Aid, what knowledge is essential for campers and what items do you never leave without in your first aid kit?’

It’s good to have as much knowledge as you can if you’re heading somewhere remote, with a basic first aid course as the minimum. Keep some extra items in your first aid kit to cater for your specific needs as well. Lauren also mentions that it’s important to have an alternative method of communication if you frequently travel to areas where there isn’t a reliable phone signal. This could be in the form of a satellite communicator, satellite phone, or PLB. Even with some First Aid training, if there’s a life-threatening emergency, urgent medical attention will be required.

‘Ben – you always seem very focused on weight and functionality (rightfully so), but what do you take camping that isn’t necessary and something you consider a luxury?’

If it’s a luxury item, Ben usually doesn’t take it. That said, when he travelled up north (where it’s hot and humid), he carried a 12V Breezeway Fan from Outdoor Connection to keep his family cool.

Navigate the nooks and crannies with your kids, and foster a respect and wonder for natural environments. Image: Coleman

Sleeping Gear

‘I currently have 50mm thick, self-inflatable sleeping mats for my family car-camping trips.

I am finding lately that the mats don’t self-inflate as much as they used to, and aren’t as comfortable. I was thinking of going for hiking air mattresses with insulation, so they can be also used for canoe camping and the odd hike. Are these a good option, or should I consider something else?’

You could certainly use an air mat – but one of the main benefits of a self-inflating foam mat is that if there’s a puncture, you will still have some insulation to sleep on. Consider that you might have different comfort standards when you’re hiking compared to when you go family camping. You might want to go for a self-inflating mat designed for hiking, as they’re more durable and comfortable but still fairly lightweight.

‘Where can I find mattress toppers for swags?’

For those who are unfamiliar with a mattress topper – this is a corresponding product that provides added padding and comfort to an existing mattress. Where some have walls like a fitted sheet, others are simply a mat of synthetic fibre, down, merino or wool. Lauren recommends merino for adequate temperature regulation, while Ben simply utilises a fitted bed sheet that he tucks beneath the mattress sides.

While residential mattress sizes don’t align with those of swags, Lauren suggests visiting Target, K-Mart, Spotlight, or other hardware and homeware stores for adequate options.

‘Stretcher bed Vs air bed Vs self-inflating mat?

Particular consideration for those with back issues, knee issues, hand issues (i.e. comfort, getting up off the ground, assembling equipment, or closing valves)?’

Ben and Lauren reckon the best option for someone who might have limited mobility would be a stretcher that provides elevation, plus a self-inflating mat with a two-way valve so it’s easier to set up and pack away.

Consider that your comfort standards when you’re hiking will be different compared to when you go family camping. Image: Exped

‘What’s the best sleeping bag for men, and what’s the best for women?’

This is a complicated question as there are many factors, and most bags in the higher price bracket will perform similarly. Once you decide on either a synthetic or down bag, narrow it down to the fit, look for an EN rating, and consider size and packability.

Ben and Lauren also recommend listening to their interview with Sea to Summit discussing sleep systems, which might help with the decision-making process.

‘I bought a brand new down sleeping bag but it has a strong smell, like a wet dog.

I’m wondering if the down inside is bad, or something’s wrong with the bag? Is it normal that new down bags stink?’

This is totally normal and very common. Keep in mind, feathers are a natural fibre, so they will have a natural scent that will fade over time. Some people are more sensitive to it than others, but there are some things you can do to minimise it like taking it out of its storage sack and hanging it up in your wardrobe to ventilate. You also have the option of washing your down bag, but wetting the feathers can sometimes intensify the smell. We recommend keeping it dry, airing it, and just being patient.

‘Best sleeping bags for bigger people?’

For the taller campers, Sea to Summit offer longer-style sleeping bags. At 185cm, Ben fits a regular sized bag, while at 191cm tall Lauren’s partner is better suited to a longer design.

For those who are simply broader – or as Lauren calls it, ‘cuddlier’ – women-specific designs by Sea to Summit are narrower in the shoulders but allow more room in the hip area. Additionally, their Amplitude and Basecamp series mirror a large sack, feature two warmth ratings, and are significantly more spacious. Lauren describes their appearance as a fluffy balloon, boasting a huge internal circumference for star-fishing and spreading wide. These particular styles are popular among motorcycle tourists too.
Unlike the Mummy shaped design – wide at the shoulders, tapering at the feet – the rectangular fit maintains the same measure of room from head to toe. The Sea to Summit website indicates the internal circumference of their sleeping bags, as well as hip and shoulder measurements.

Like Sea to Summit, Darche also offer a 1100 sleeping bag that aligns with a King-King-Single size. While this doesn’t quite meet the same volume of space as a double, it is larger than a single and thus still offers a roomy alternative.

Weather Protection

‘What is the best rain jacket and best down jacket for men, what’s the best for women?’

This is a tricky one, as we don’t sell clothing at Snowys; it’s not our area of speciality. Essentially, when it comes to the top-of-the-range, high-quality clothing (where you’re spending $500+), the differences will likely be minor.

Generally, we would say that the hallmark of a high-quality rain jacket would be breathable waterproof fabric with ventilation and a good hood.

In terms of down jackets – if you’re just looking for one to wear around town, you could definitely go for something more affordable. However, if you’re using it for technical applications, look for models that use responsibly sourced down, have a good warmth-to-weight ratio, and feature water-resistant fabric.

‘Has anyone made up their own windbreak?

I was thinking of using shade cloth and star droppers. I think star droppers might be on the heavy and awkward-to-store side of things though – are there aluminium poles that would be suitable?’

Definitely – but we would suggest not taking star droppers as they are heavy, so could be dangerous in an accident. Even if strapped on tightly, it will become a spear if it begins to move with too much weight around it. Whatever you put on the roof rack must be secure. Aluminium poles will help save weight, so they are a good choice – plus, you’ll need good pegs and guy ropes. Ben recommends taking a mesh tarp folded in half, as this will mediate and slow the wind without putting too much stress on the poles.

‘Do you always pack clothing for any weather, or do you only ever pack for expected weather?’

Ben is a light packer, so he plans based on the expected weather forecast – although he might take a pair of pants and a light jumper sometimes, just in case. Lauren follows the same principle, though she might occasionally throw in a pair of comfy longer pants for wearing around camp. Regardless of the weather, she always packs a thick pair of socks to help her stay warm.

‘Tips or tricks for camping in the rain?’

In previous episodes, Lauren and Ben have touched on some logistics surrounding camping in wetter weather. Nonetheless, Ben encourages campers to enjoy the pitter-patter of raindrops on the still, damper days.

To prepare for the no-so-pleasant occasions, assess the weather predictions via the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) or your local agency. At the campsite, ensure guys ropes are taught, the fly is fully tensioned to ensure efficient funneling of rain, and establish a sheltered space for cooking and socialising, such as a spare tarp or gazebo.

Stick to lighting brands that are known for quality, such as Ledlenser. Image: Ledlenser

Electronics, Lighting, and Power

‘I’m thinking of buying a good head torch, but I don’t know if it’s worth spending good dollars on one or just replacing cheap ones as they stuff up…’

Ben’s approach to gear is that the fewer items thrown away, the better. Generally, with head torches, you get what you pay for. Ben has had a Princeton Tec head torch for 15 years which cost around $100. It has been on many adventures with him, and is still going strong! Stick to brands that are known for quality such as Black Diamond, Petzl, Silva, Ledlenser, or Nitecore.

For Lauren, the most important factors are that the unit is rechargeable and the battery can be replaced. She has used BioLite torchs in the past, but the internal battery can’t be replaced – this means that eventually it will end up in landfill. Instead, she now uses a Petzl Tikkina headlamp with a replaceable battery.

‘How do I determine the best small option for recharging my phone when camping, away from power points and a stationary vehicle, for 4-5 days?’

We would say start by working out what devices you’re going to use (e.g. just your phone, or other gear) and how much you want to use each device. Generally though, a small 20mAh powerbank should be suitable as something you can charge at home or while you drive.

Tents

‘Thoughts on camper trailers Vs tents for young family camping?’

Camper trailers are great for those who have the space at home to store them, are happy to tow, and also spend the initial investment by purchasing one. However, some limitations are that they can be time-consuming to put up, involve more maintenance, and require space for storage at home. That said, camper trailers are convenient and easier to get going with on your adventures –especially with kids.

‘Here’s one for Ben: would you take a hiking tent on your regular car-camping trips, or a larger tent?

Also, do you have an AGM battery in the car, or Lithium? If not Lithium, will you make the switch eventually?’

In his younger days, Ben was a hiker who took his lightweight tent on camping trips – but as his family grew, he upgraded to an older-style Black Wolf Tuff tent. He then upgraded to an Oztent RV5 tent for outback adventures, which is what he and his family still use now.

Currently, he has a lead-acid auxiliary and main battery, so he can charge them both with the same profile. That said, he would like to switch to lithium in the future to save weight.

Which tents on the market are the easiest and most efficient to set up and pack down for a newbie?

Lauren believes that the easiest to set up would be an air tent or an Instant Up design. Ben recommends checking out a basic dome tent, as you can’t really go wrong with good quality construction and thoughtful design.

‘What do you think of cheaper tents found at department stores?’

If you’re looking for a tent to survive a couple of uses, they will be fine – but if you want something that will stand up to many years of use, generally you do get what you pay for. If you were to have an issue with it, it’s unlikely that spare parts would be available, so even though the tent can be replaced through warranty the broken one will end up in landfill. We’d say the better approach is to buy once, buy right – so you can enjoy your shelter over many adventures.

A Muk Mat will help to prevent beach, bush, and campground grit from making its way indoors. Image: Muk Mat

Gear, Campsite, and General Maintenance

‘How can we limit the amount of sand and dirt little feet bring into our swags?

We have a 3-week trip planned with a mixture of beach, bush, and campground swagging with a 2- and 5-year-old!

You probably won’t be able to prevent this entirely, but you can manage it by keeping your shoes outside the swag. Putting a Muk Mat or some sort of foam matting outside as a doormat will help, as well as keeping a dustpan and brush on the inside to help get rid of any dirt on your bedding.

‘How can we keep pesky pests at bay? Wildlife sure are experts at penetrating defences!’

Lauren hasn’t really experienced issues with wildlife, as she camps with dogs and kids (so the noise probably keeps them at arm’s length). Neither has Ben. However, some general tips would be to keep food scraps secure, cover up and use insect repellents, set up orange lighting to deter bugs, and keep your tent zipped closed.

‘What is the best option for managing mozzies in particular when camping?’

As Ben’s wife is a mozzie-magnet, he suggests using EVERYTHING!

Some repellants include Thermocells, DEET, mosquito nets, sprays, and coils in still climates. For chemical-free prevention strategies, cover bare skin with long-sleeved clothing, keep screens and panels securely zipped, and simply factor a barrier of any kind into your camp set-up. For more tactics, check out Ep31 – Creepy Crawlies at the Campsite – or this blog on the many ways to repel bugs while camping.

‘How can I fix a snapped swag pole?’

For snapped fibreglass or alloy poles, the swag pole repair kit by Darche is a helpful henchman. For aluminium repairs, Darche offer two different kits – one for angular, segmental swags, and the other for arched hoops found in dome designs.

Replacement fibreglass poles of the same diameter can be sourced and simply cut to length, while repairing a breakage or snap is often done using the small tube-like sleeve (ferrule) included with most swags. Simply slide this over the top of the rupture and secure with duct tape for a temporary, stable fix lasting the remainder of a trip. Lauren demonstrates how to approach this in a Snowys YouTube video.

As for alloy poles, these are more difficult to repair or replace. Lauren and Ben suggest returning to the respective manufacturer for assistance.

‘Any unpacking, at-home rituals? Tips on gear checks and maintenance? Wet or windy weather activities?’

Ben and his family try to unpack straight away following a camping trip, before they do anything else. He generally makes notes while camping of anything that needs to be addressed or refilled, so it’s easy to sort everything upon arriving home. Lauren tends to leave it to the next day as she usually arrives home from her trips quite late. As her van is not their daily car, it doesn’t need to be unpacked straight away – however, she does take out the laundry, rubbish, and any leftover food.

In terms of activities on a rainy or windy day, Ben and Lauren suggest playing cards, games, reading a book, or listening to music to pass the time.

Ben loves making pizza and damper on the campfire. Image: Campfire

Camp Cooking and Food

‘Best coffee makers for camping?’

A good question for Ben, who maintains that the AeroPress or Wacaco are the most ideal coffee brewers out bush. While an AeroPress can simply be filled with water before a dash of cold milk, the Wacaco produces a traditional espresso shot that requires heated milk to produce an equally hot, hearty cup.

For the super hardcore hot coffee fanatics, some large silver stove-top setups produce espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Boiling the water builds up pressure, creating the shot and concurrently steaming the milk.

‘What’s your favourite recipe for camp stoves and open fires?’

In terms of campfire recipes, Ben loves making pizza and damper, while Lauren is a fan of a bacon and eggs brekkie or stewed lamb shanks in a camp oven. If you’re looking for inspiration, the Fire to Fork cookbook is a good place to start.

Camp stove cooking can be restrictive, but you could get fancy with pasta sauces or use a hotplate to cook a BBQ. Lauren mainly just pre-cooks meals at home and vacuum seals them to reheat in boiling water. This saves gas, time, and cleaning up.

Ben and Lauren chat with Fire to Fork’s Harry Fisher about all things campfire cooking:

‘What food is best to leave in the pantry for short overnight stops (product review on Back Country or Outdoor Gourmet food brands)?’

While Lauren and Ben have previously tapped into freeze-dried and dehydrated meals, they plan to present a more hands-on, detailed demonstration that offers a better sense of how these packet foods look, taste, and cook. Until then, Lauren offers her opinion, essentially describing them as hit-or-miss. Ben and Lauren often have opposing views depending on the brand or choice of meal, which is ultimately suggestive of how subjective freeze-dried and rehydrated food reviews really are.

The appeal of freeze-dried meals comes from their convenience on lightweight adventures, and so aren’t a pleasing enough substitute for a meal on occasions when standard food would otherwise be consumed. For example, Ben’s go-to pasta recipe on his most recent camping holiday used canned vegetables which, in comparison to packet meals, allowed a ‘fresher’-tasting dinner. That said, the Radix brand of freeze-dried food is commonly preferred over others, with a greater resemblance to standard meals.

Overall, Ben suggests canned or long-life food to keep overnight in the pantry, given no refrigeration is required. On that, products displaying a ‘best before’ date often has greater flexibility around the consumption timeline than that of a ‘use by’. That said, the further it surpasses its date stamp, the more it drops in quality and flavour.

Other alternatives include the Offgrid and Go Native brand of heat-and-eat packet food. Go Native is preserved via ‘retort packaging’. This method involves sealing the cooked food while still hot, as opposed to dehydrating. From here, the packet simply requires reheating with boiling water. Ben recommends this as a hearty alternative to other packet meals.

‘Best ultralight cutlery and crockery for hiking, at the lowest price?’

Our podcast hosts both agree that the Sea to Summit polypropylene set is the most cost-efficient and effective hiking cutlery, at just under five dollars per set. Bundled as a fork, spoon, and knife, simply link with a carabiner for a no-fuss food-friendly system. The Delta range of cutlery is shorter, constructed with durable polypropylene and the same reinforced nylon plastic, finished with a flexible plastic carabiner for keeping neat and collected amongst your clutter.  

For crockery, the Sea to Summit Delta bowl and/or plate is a lightweight option. When hiking, a bowl is generally all that’s required, while the additional plate often bodes better for a camping-style holiday.

Ultimately though, Lauren insists that if your camp cutlery isn’t comfortable to hold, the eating experience is thrown completely off course! For that reason – and all lightweight, cost-effective suggestions aside – she carries a set of standard steel cutlery in her camping kit.

Offgrid is an example of fresh, heat-and-eat packaged food, great for overnight stops. Image: Offgrid

OK, now let’s be real for a second…

‘The Snowys products Ben and Lauren couldn’t go without?’

A coffee connoisseur at the campsite, Ben’s response – an AeroPress – is hardly a surprise. His commonly coined nickname ‘Safety Ben’ has him sheepishly admitting that his choice should probably be something more along the lines of a first aid kit or a swag. Nonetheless, he can’t go without coffee – and wasn’t that the question?!

On the other hand, Lauren claims that her Scrubba Wash Bag and Collapsible Space Saving tubs are the most-used, well-loved, not-to-be-forgotten tackle in her pack. After not taking her washbag on her last getaway, she missed it more than she expected – while her collapsible tubs now allow far more room in her kitchen, holding large pats of butter, avocado halves, and wads of bacon.

‘Favoured Snowys products by Snowys staff?’

Jess from Customer Service: a sleeping bag liner. Versatile throughout both warm and wintery weather, this product also keeps her sleeping bag clean.

Sam from Customer Service: trekking poles. Be it for relieving pressure from the knees, hoisting herself up hills, checking the levels of mud holes before heaving across hip-deep, or flipped upside-down for use as tent poles – Sam believes that trekking poles offer true camping comradery.

Laine from the Web Team: a soft-sided cooler and luggage scales. Too often has he left beers behind at a BBQ in someone else’s fridge, so his cooler is now his personal, portable cranny for the cold ones. Thanks to his luggage scales too, he now beats getting burnt at the JetStar luggage check-in, previously packing too much tackle that wavered over the ideal weight.

Cory from IT: his fridge (for keeping his beer), Sea to Summit collapsible X-Cup (for drinking his beer), and Pacsafe waist wallet (…for buying his beer).

Leece from Customer Support: like Ben, an AeroPress – plus a Delta insulated cup.

Michael from the Web Team: a round jaffle iron! Leading up to his travels, Michael would purchase McDonald’s cheeseburgers to keep in the fridge. At the campsite, he simply cooked them in the jaffle iron over the campfire for an even faster fast-food fix!

Brett from the Web Team: the JetBoil Zip. Simply fill, clip, and boil – the perfect stripped-down, lightweight option for fast adventures, covering your coffee fix or for reheating a Radix meal. Lauren owns the JetBoil MiniMo – a short, stocky alternative – which perches perfectly and patiently for her prior to brewing a coffee or tea. An all-round, well-loved product in the Snowys family!

‘When will Snowys open a store in Sydney?’

Unfortunately, to Ben and Lauren’s knowledge, this won’t be a move Snowys will make in the foreseeable future. That said, the ever-evolving, ridgy-didge website successfully accommodates every Snowys supporter around the country!

From swags to Scrubba wash bags, there are some key items that Ben and Lauren can’t go camping without. Image: Darche

For an audio experience, tune into the following episodes as Ben and Lauren address the above questions:

Got a question for Ben and Lauren? Check out Episodes 65, 66, and 92 to hear whether it’s already been answered!

The post Campsite Q&A’s (Part 1) appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Founded by Joe Viglione, and still family-owned and operated to this day – over the years the Oztent brand has expanded their range to not only a full selection of great tents but also an array of camping furniture, awnings and bedding as well.

Nowadays the brand has a trusted selection of RV tents to choose from, so we’ve broken down the range to show you the differences, similarities, and the best use for each one – so read on for all the details of the Original 30 Second RV, RV Plus, RV Lite, RX and SV tents.

With a full line up, it’s hard to pick the right model from the range.

The Original Oztent 30 Second Tent

Arguably one of the best tent designs on the market, the RV range of tents from Oztent have stood the test of time, sheltering campers all over the country for the past couple of decades.

Easily assembled and disassembled by one person in half a minute, the simple design has an internal aluminium frame, is constructed from premium 100% waterproof 8 oz Ripstop polycotton canvas and is made to last. It comes in a range of sizes that include RV-1, RV-2, RV-3, RV-4, and RV-5 so there’s a model for everyone.

You can also increase the living space of the 3, 4, and 5 using a Tagalong tent as these will zip onto the front of the awning of your existing tent, or add a fly to reduce condensation.

Ideal for: touring campers looking for simple and durable shelter.

The RV-1 is the original model from the brand. Image: Oztent

The Oztent RV-3 & 5 Plus

The RV Plus is the latest addition to the RV range, with all the features of the original RV tent including the 30-second frame, 8 oz Ripstop polycotton canvas, a modular design, and a large awning for relaxing under but with some extra bells and whistles to add to your camping experiences.

The RV Plus has a SkyMesh Skylight built into the roof so you can fall asleep to the twinkle of the stars, plus get some excellent airflow throughout your sheltered space. The Plus tents come with a fly to reduce condensation and also the poles you need to create a peaked awning to ensure water runs off in inclement weather conditions. Furthermore, the zips have been changed on the awning to create more weather protection when you add on accessories.

There are two sizes available in the RV Plus range at this time, the RV-3 Plus which caters perfectly for two people while allowing space for gear and an RV-5 Plus which has space for a family of 4.

Ideal for: those looking for a reliable tent which has some extra features.

This is one of the newest additions to the range. Image: Oztent

What are the differences between the Original RV and RV Plus models?

As mentioned above, the RV Plus takes the foundation of the original 30-second tent and adds the following extra features:

• SkyMesh skylight built into the roof for ventilation and stargazing
• Fly comes with the tent for better ventilation and condensation management
• Reconfigured zips for better weather protection when using accessories
• Extra poles included for a peaked awning

The Plus has a mesh skylight so you can see the stars. Image: Oztent

Are the new and old accessories compatible across all the models?

The RV-Plus Range has a few new accessories which include the RV Plus Front Panel, RV Plus Peaked Side Panels, and an RV Plus Zip-In Tarp Extension for making the most of your tent set up.

All these accessories are designed to be compatible with the RV Plus tents, and as the zips have been reconfigured, unfortunately, that means that the new accessories are not interchangeable with the original RV tents. However, the connection between the Plus tents and the accessories is now even more waterproof, giving total peace of mind when camping in adverse conditions.

They still make front panels and deluxe side panels, plus peaked side panels for the original range, as well as side awnings and awning connectors, so you will be covered either way if you want to kit out your shelter. For carrying your RV, RV Lite, RX & SV tent in transit, the RV Pro Travel Case will protect it from the elements on your expeditions too.

Each model has its own compatible panels. Image: Oztent

Other variations of RV tents

RV-3 Lite

While the RV-3 Lite tent has been around for the past year, it’s certainly worth a mention as it’s a newer addition to this longstanding range.

The Lites are designed to be a lighter yet still high-quality touring tent for beginners looking to invest in their gear. It has the patented Oztent instant aluminium folding frame but is constructed using a synthetic 210 Ripstop polyester fabric which is CPAI-84 fire-retardant with UPF50+ protection. At 19.5kg it’s also a little lighter than its RV-3 counterpart which weighs in at 22kg, making the Lite a preferred choice for those needing to cut back on load.

Right now, the RV Lite range from Oztent only comes in a 3-person size which is ideal for a couple or young family of 3. If you want to close off the awning for more shelter, you’ll need to pick up the RV Lite Complete Modular Panel Set which is only compatible with the Lite range.

Ideal for: newbie campers wanting quality at a lower price point.

Upgrade a dome tent to this lighter yet still high-quality RV tent. Image: Oztent

RX-5

While not technically an RV tent, the RX-5 is still based on the 30-second folding frame. Unlike the original RV’s however, they are constructed from a synthetic ModCan material and they include a complete panel system with a zip-in floor, to create a fully enclosed space from the front awning. They also feature a skylight for ventilation and star gazing.

Originally available in two sizes, Oztent has now refined their range to no longer include the RX-4, leaving the RX-5 which is perfect for 4 people plus living space. Overall, this tent is great for family group camping trips, or touring expeditions where you’ll be setting up and packing down regularly.

Ideal for: families looking for a versatile two-room tent for living and sleeping.

With two rooms for more versatility, the RX is great for families. Image: Oztent

The SV-5 Max

Named after Oztent’s late owner and visionary – Shane Viglione, the SV-5 Max was the last tent design that he worked on, so it holds a special place in the brand’s heart.

This is the biggest tent that they have ever made, featuring an angled version of the 30-second classic frame that tapers out so that you get more space. It’s constructed from 8oz Ripstop polycotton canvas and comes with a zip-in tarp extension for 5-metres of undercover space, so you don’t need a gazebo. Poles and spreader bars are included to create a peaked awning and there’s a skylight for providing enhanced airflow and viewing the stars. There are also separately available peaked side panels and a front panel for privacy and protection on your SV-5 Tent.

Ideal for: Those looking for maximum living and sleeping space.

Named after Shane Viglione, this tent is the latest innovation from the brand. Image: Oztent

What’s the best piece of Oztent gear that you’ve ever tried?

The post Oztent RV, RV Plus, RV Lite, RX & SV-5 Max Tent Comparison appeared first on Snowys Blog.

With the heavy-hitter Darche in one corner, and the newbie 23ZERO in the other – we’re going to break the products down for you to help you discern which brand of shelter is going to suit your adventures.

Darche are known as making leading high-end outdoor gear. Image: Darche

Introduction to Darche

The Darche name and the Australian Outback go hand-in-hand. Starting out back in 1991 in regional Victoria, the Darche made a name for itself when they introduced the dome swag to the camping world almost three decades ago.

The Darche moniker is a combination of the founder, Darren O’Dwyer’s name, mashed together with his wife, Cheryl – and together those names create DAR-CHE. Darren sought a shelter that was practical, easy to stow and quick to set up, so he created the prototype for his dome swag design. Along his trips, he found that his creation caused quite a stir with other campers, and so he took that idea and ran with it.

Utilising superior quality materials and through continual product development and technologies, Darche continues to be leaders in the camping and 4×4 market.

23ZERO has a quarter of a century of expertise making outdoor gear. Image: 23ZERO

A bit of background on 23ZERO

23ZERO was founded by a band of keen outdoor enthusiasts, with a background of 25 years of experience manufacturing high-quality outdoor gear. The name is based on the coordinates of Alice Springs – which is one of the toughest locations in the world and is also the centre of Australia. 

Designed in Australia, with teams in both the USA and Australia, so that the gear can be tested in the right conditions, the brand strives to make gear that inspires people to get out and enjoy the outdoors.

Using the best materials, and tested thoroughly to go the distance, 23ZERO is a brand for outdoor enthusiasts, made by outdoor enthusiasts.

Darche swags feature superfine mesh. Image: Darche

How does the mesh compare on the Darche and 23ZERO models?

Both 23Zero and Darche use superfine mesh, which is going to provide protection from a range of insects and creepy crawlies while also allowing for ventilation in your shelter to prevent condensation.

This doesn’t however, included protection from midges. For more details on choosing a midge proof shelter, head here.

The mesh on both brands are very similar. Image: 23ZERO

What’s the difference between the Darche and 23ZERO mats?

All the 23ZERO models come standard with a 70mm high-density thick foam mattress with a protective cover.

Darche models, on the other hand, come standard with a 50mm breathable open-cell foam mattress with a cover that can be removed for cleaning.

However, Darche do have a BYOS range, which provides you with the option to build your own swag. This just means you can choose your desired swag skin, and then select either a 50mm or 70mm thick mattress depending on your preference, so a 70mm mat is an option.

Darche also manufacture an All-Terrain self-inflating mattress, which is 10cm thick and perfectly sized for their range of swags if you want to upgrade to something even more luxurious.

The standard thickness of mats differ unless you choose the BYOS Darche range. Image: 23ZERO (left) and Darche (right).

Is there a difference in quality between the canvas used?

The main difference between the two brands really comes into play when comparing the canvas used on the Darche and 23ZERO swags. 

23ZERO use a quality 400 gsm Poly/Cotton 65/35 canvas with a PU coating, while Darche use a 420gsm Ripstop Poly/Cotton canvas with a PU coating that provides an 800mm waterproofing rating.

Both of these are very heavy-duty fabrics, and the difference in feel and durability between 400gsm and 420gsm is going to be minimal. 

However, Darche use canvas which has ripstop woven into the canvas, which in the event of a tear or hole, will stop it from spreading before you’re able to get it repaired. 

However, you would have to work pretty hard to put a tear in either brand of canvas, as they’re both very hard-wearing and designed for use in harsh environments. 

The floor materials are basically the same. Image: 23ZERO

What are the similarities in floor materials?

Darche and 23ZERO manufacture their swags with heavy-duty PVC floors, which provide plenty of protection from any sodden ground that you might be camping on.

Do they both come with bags for storage and transport?

Both brands supply their swags with a carry bag, which is great as you don’t have to purchase one separately. Darche and 23ZERO also manufacture swag bags as separately available items, should you lose or break yours.

Both brands supply a canvas carry bag with swags. Image: 23ZERO

Is there a difference in pole strength?

Both Darche and 23ZERO use strong anodised alloy poles that are 9.5mm in diameter, so they’re lightweight, rust-resistant and manufactured to last the distance – so almost identical in quality.

What about the price point?

There’s a slight price difference between the brands, with the 23ZERO range coming in slightly under Darche, but this can fluctuate based on the prices set by the manufacturer.

Either brand of swag will serve you well on your expeditions. Image: 23ZERO

In summary: which one should you buy?

Even though Darche make fantastic swags and rooftop tents amongst other gear, 23ZERO has impressed us so far with their quality – and they’ve started to gain plenty of positive traction from our customers as well.

Whichever shelter you choose, you’ll be comfortable and protected from the elements for many years to come.

What’s the best swag you’ve ever used? 

The post Darche vs 23ZERO – Which Swag Should I Buy? appeared first on Snowys Blog.

It was the addition of the original Gold series tents that had our customers asking themselves, “What is the difference between the Silver and Gold Series Instant Up tents”. Furthermore, with the introduction of the Northstar Dark Room range, our customers are now asking, “What are the benefits of the Dark Room tents?”

Truth is, it’s pretty straightforward. For starters, the frame is exactly the same for all three, the differences are in the fabrics and extras. But, before we delve into explaining the differences let’s answer the question – “Why should you buy a Coleman Instant Up Tent?”

The Instant Northstar Dark Room, Instant Up Gold 6P and Instant Up Silver 4P side by side. 

The answer? Because they are a perfect lightweight substitute to heavy-duty canvas touring tents. Their lower price, smaller pack size and ease of handling make them the quick pitch tent of choice for family campers and 4WD tourers alike.

How’s that for a sales pitch!

There’s a long list of tents in the Instant Up Range now, all referred to in this article. Here’s a snapshot of the range to paint a clear picture for you…

Models in the Silver range:

• Instant Up Northern 4P
• Instant Up Silver 4P
• Instant Up Silver 6P
• Instant Up Silver 8P

Models in the Gold range:

• Instant Up Gold 4P
• Instant Up Gold 6P
• Instant Up Gold 10P

Models in the Northstar Dark Room range:

• Instant Up 4P Lighted Northstar Dark Room
• Instant Up 6P Lighted Northstar Dark Room
• Instant Up 10P Lighted Northstar Dark Room

Below, we compare the Silver and Gold series Instant Up tents. Then we put the Northstar Dark Room tents up against the rest of the range.

First up – the Instant Up Silver vs Instant Up Gold. There are eight differences, so let’s get started…

If you prefer to watch a video comparing the Silver and Gold tents, then hit the play button above.

What are the differences between the Silver and Gold series Instant Up Tents?

1. The fabric quality

This is a bit technical, bear with me. The Silver series use a PU coated 150 denier polyester with a thread count of 150 (150D/150T). This is a durable and reasonably heavy duty fabric. The gold series, however, utilise a PU coated 75 denier polyester with a thread count of 185T (75D/185T) plus it has a rip-stop fibre sewn into the fabric. This gold series fabric is a softer and denser fabric that packs away easier whilst maintaining strength and durability.

2. Higher water-head ratings

Waterwhaaat…?! Not everyone understands what water-head means. Basically, it’s a measure of how waterproof the fabric is. It’s measured with a machine that places water pressure on a section of the fabric until it starts to seep through. For most conditions, the 1500mm waterhead on the Silver series Instant-Up tents will keep you dry. The gold series, however, boast a 3000mm waterhead, which I wouldn’t say is twice as waterproof, but they certainly offer extra peace of mind if you’re caught out in torrential rain.

The Gold’s floor (left) is a little easier to fold. It’s also a bit more durable compared to the Silver (right). Image: Coleman Australia

3. Nicer floor material

Both series have a bucket floor, and they offer similar levels of water protection, the difference is in the type of fabric. In the Silver series, you get a Polyethylene floor (PE), which is the same stuff regular tarps are made of. It’s tough and waterproof, but noisy to walk on and requires a little bit of wrangling to fold away. The gold series tents have a nice PVC coated Polyoxford floor. This is basically like the fly fabric, only thicker with a durable rubbery coating on it. This fabric is softer and quieter to walk on, packs away easier and still offers the durability of the PE flooring.

4. Door & window mesh

Coleman doesn’t advertise this much and I’m not sure why, but the mesh on the gold series tents is finer than that on the Silver series. It’s not no-see-um mesh, but it’s definitely much finer and softer which probably also aids in ease of packing away.

The Instant Up Gold tents have ground level vents that open up to create a nice cross breeze. 

5. Better ventilation

All the Instant-Up tents have large windows finishing at waist level with internal privacy screens, along with entrances with mesh and solid panels. So, ventilation is good on all these tents. The gold series tents have the added benefit of ground-level vents that can be opened internally. This is called Coleman Circle Ventilation and, talking from experience, is a welcome addition to your tent in warm weather. It creates a cross breeze at the base of the tent, right where you’re sleeping!

6. Bonus awning

While all entrances to the Instant Up tents can be extended as awnings, the 4P and 6P version of the gold series come with an extra removable awning that can be fixed above the windows on either side. It’s easily attached/removed with a zipper and features three eyelets so the awning can be extended with a peak to shed water. What’s more, the extra awning poles are included.

7. More storage

While internal storage pockets feature on the internal walls of every Instant Up model, the 4P and 6P Gold and the 4P and 6P Northstar Dark Room series have the added benefit of a gear hammock that attaches under the internal peak of the tent. It’s a perfect place to store the car keys so all can access, or maybe some emergency midnight munchies… up where the kids can’t reach them!

A doormat is a nice addition to the Gold tents. Image: Coleman Australia

8. Last and most importantly… a doormat!

Every gold series Instant Up tent comes with its very own doormat. There’s no witty welcome phrase or fancy patterns, it’s just a panel of mesh Polyethylene fabric with peg out points. But, it offers a clean and dry place to rest your shoes in the vestibule.

Now – the Northstar Dark Room Tents?

The Instant Up Northstar Dark Room tents are a newer addition to Coleman’s Instant Up family, and certainly a very popular one. First introduced was the Instant Northstar Dark Room 10P tent, the Northstar Dark Room 6P and 4P followed, and now they’ve even applied their Dark Room technology to a pop-up tent!

What are the differences between the Instant Up Gold Dark Room tents when compared to the Gold and Silver series?

1. Models

The Northstar Dark Room range currently comes in three sizes in the Instant Up configuration – the Instant Up 10P Lighted Northstar Dark Room, Instant Up 6P Lighted Northstar Dark Room and Instant Up 4P Lighted Northstar Dark Room.

Not including the vestibule, the 4P Silver, 4P Gold and 4P Dark Room tents all share the same internal dimensions and the same can be said for the 6P tents.

The Instant Up Gold 10P pictured above has two rooms. Image: Coleman Australia

However, in the 10 person category, the Northstar Dark Room 10P boasts three rooms compared to the Instant Up Gold 10P’s two. This makes the Northstar Dark Room a slightly more spacious and livable tent.

The Instant Northstar Dark Room 10P has three rooms. Image: Coleman Australia

2. Features

The Northstar Dark Room series feature the same instant up frame and share the same 75D/185T fabric featured in the Gold series.

The main difference that separates the Northstar Dark Room tents from the Silver and Gold Instant Up tents is a light blocking coating on the back of the flysheet. This special black coating on the underside assists with blocking out 95% of light while helping to reduce the interior temperature inside your tent by up to 5°C. This fly is what makes these models so popular with families with young kids who need to stick to their bedtime routines!

The second difference is that the Dark Room 6P and 4P have an extra pole in the front to create a much larger vestibule. This can be used for additional living or storage space but will add a little to your setup time.

The third difference is that all three Northstar Dark Room tents feature silicone flexible strip lighting with integrated LED lights for easy illumination inside your tent.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Dark Room tents don’t come with the bonus removable awning featured in the regular 4P and 6P Gold Series tents.

The interior of the Dark Room tents vs the Instant Up Gold Tents. Images: Coleman Australia

So, there you have it – the differences between the Gold, Silver and Northstar Dark Room Instant Up Tents!

That’s pretty much it. In terms of performance in wind, the Gold, Silver and Northstar Dark Room series are comparable. Setup time is similar for all series and the packed size only varies slightly. In summary, the silver series is very affordable whilst the Gold series offers extra bells and whistles and a few creature comforts that you may appreciate if you can afford the extra. If sleeping in is your thing, then the Dark Room models may help get the extra shut-eye you’re longing for.

My old Coleman Instant Up 4P (not the Gold version) has seen me and my family through two big outback touring trips and numerous weekend escapes. It’s still fully functional and apart from a few rub spots on the floor, it’s in great condition.

However, if I had my time again, I’d certainly consider upgrading to the Gold series, or even the Dark Room to help get the kids to bed easier, or more importantly to make them sleep in longer!

The Instant Up Gold, Silver and Northstar Dark Room tents are both very comparable, but which one would you pick if you had to make a choice? 

The post Comparing the Coleman Instant Up Silver, Gold & Dark Room Tents appeared first on Snowys Blog.

You may also be looking to replace damaged poles or parts. If this is the first time you’ve looked into the range of tent poles, you may be a little befuddled over which ones will suit your needs.

Good thing is that unless you have a very specific need, most poles are going to serve the same purpose. The choice really comes down to which material you want, and what length you need.

There are a few different types of poles available, each with their own use for your camping set up. 

Upright Poles

These are available in a myriad of brands, sizes and functions. But, at the end of the day, they all pretty much do the same thing… support your camping shelter.

We carry round tent poles rather than square as they are friendly on fabrics, are easy to handle and are compatible with numerous other fittings that allow you to add to your shelter.

They come in both steel and alloy materials and generally have a ‘spigot’ atop the pole. A ‘spigot’ is the pointy end that fits through the eyelets of your tent or tarp, or through the end cap of a ridge or spreader pole.

Most of these are adjustable, with the alloy poles generally featuring either a twist lock, or cam lock mechanism The steel poles usually having a wing or ‘T’ nut lock. There are some kits that have fixed length poles that simply fold down into 3 sections.

Some brands produce their own pole kits to suit their tents. But for the most part, there are all interchangeable with the only variants being the material and the adjustable lengths.

Alloy Poles with a spigot on one end are ideal for supporting your shelter. 

Ridge or spreader poles

A ridge pole enables you to create a rigid peak on your awning or tarp to enable efficient water run-off rather than having it pool in sagging sections of your shelter. These are almost always used in conjunction with two upright poles to create a frame that will support your shelter. The spigot ends of the upright poles fit through the holes at each end of these ridge poles.

As with upright poles, spreader poles come in various lengths right up to almost four metres in length and are also available in both alloy with twist lock extension, and steel with wing or ‘T’ nut adjustment.

The alloy poles generally have plastic end inserts which are a little kinder on tent fabrics than the flat ends of steel poles. Similarly, as with the upright poles – we only carry the round range. This is because they’re compatible with numerous optional fittings and spare parts.

Put a peak in your awning or tarp to prevent water pooling with a Ridge Pole. 

Adjustable C-Clip Poles

These are much like the previously mentioned spreader poles, only they feature a nylon ‘C’ clip at each end rather than the eyelet for pole spigots.

They are only more of an addition to a shelter structure rather than a necessity. You would usually only purchase them if you find that you need to minimise the sag of a shelter’s roof or to brace a wind break or side wall.

The addition of these poles increases structural integrity by creating a horizontal brace across the middle of two upright, or in between two ridge poles. The C-clip fits 22.2mm diameter poles and is made of durable nylon which provides a secure grip.

C-Clip poles are great for minimising any sagging on the roof of your tent or shelter. 

Lightweight Alloy poles

High-end dome tents and most lightweight hiking tents have flexible alloy poles. These are lighter and a little more reliable than their fibreglass counterparts. As with anything, there are varying qualities. DAC and Easton are known to produce the best quality lightweight alloy poles.

Mid-range hiking tents and swags come with unbranded alloy poles. But we have had good feedback on their performance in the past.

The downside of these poles is that you cannot buy a universal repair section. In almost all cases you’ll need to source a new pole set or a specific pole section from the manufacturer.

This being said, with proper care and consideration, these poles are hard to break and are reliable in the field.

Fibreglass poles

If you’ve broken a fibreglass tent pole on a dome tent, then you don’t need to buy a new pole set to set things right again. In fact, in most cases fibreglass dome tent poles are not sold as a set. Instead, replacement pole sections are available.

These pole sections usually come in a pack of four and are available in a variety of diameters and brands. There’s no need to match the pole brand with your tent. You just need to find the correct diameter, then make sure you have a hacksaw to trim it to length.

These fibreglass poles come in varying qualities. The basic versions are usually black, while the better quality poles come with an extra wrap over the fibreglass to prevent it from splintering and add durability. The poles with this wrap can usually be identified by a printed pattern or brighter colour on the outside.

The AOS Swag pole kit allows your swag to be freestanding. A fibreglass pole kit will have your dome tent up and running again.

Specialty poles

There are a number of poles that are made for a specific purpose. However there is no reason why they wouldn’t be useful for other specific purposes.

The Oztrail Swag Pole Plus Kit, for example, is designed for the Oztrail swag range to turn them into freestanding shelters. But, there is no reason why it couldn’t be used as a ridge or spreader pole in instances where spigot ends are required.

And the AOS Swag Pole Kit, while designed for the apex swags from AOS, are just as useful for setting up a hootchie or tarp shelter, or for any swag or compact tent awning.

Steel or Alloy

Personally, on account of the weight-saving, I prefer alloy. I’ve never had a good quality alloy pole fail me. In some instances though, I would exercise caution. For example, in bad weather I’ll take down all but the necessary forms of shelter until the weather passes to be on the safe side.

Same with transporting alloy poles. You might want to make sure that they’re not rattling around in the back of your 4×4. The main downside of alloy poles is that once bent, they’re not terribly conducive to being bent back into place. Basically, the more they are bent back and forward, the weaker they get.

A steel pole weighs more. But for this extra weight you get a practically indestructible pole that can be hammered, bent and shaped back into place should any damage occur… and they’re cheaper.

Alloy Ridge Poles will be a bit lighter compared to steel, so they’re great for weight-conscious campers. 

Don’t forget to add some guy ropes

The best way to add stability to your shelter is to add more anchor points. You do this by increasing the number of guy ropes and peg out points.

Adding extra guy lines to a standard upright spigot pole is easy, all you need is a loop to place over the top of the spigot end, peg it out and tighten.

Having two guy ropes on each of the key upright pole locations increases the stability of your shelter two-fold. So for that reason, it’s good to have extras on hand.

Don’t forget to bring those extra guy ropes and pegs for securing your shelter in the elements. 

The pole is only as good as the pegs holding it upright

There’s no point in having sturdy poles and plenty of guy ropes only to use the short and thin pegs that are included with many shelters. Make sure you add a handful of pegs that are specific to the location and ground conditions you will be camping on.

Check out this guide to help choose pegs to keep your camp set up grounded, so you can enjoy a sturdy set up for the whole of your trip.

What are the essentials poles that you have on hand for putting together your ultimate campsite? 

The post Tent Poles – What You Need to Know appeared first on Snowys Blog.

We’ve had our Oztent RV5 for around 4 years, and have spent over 125 nights in it. It’s been all over Western Australia, in every condition imaginable. I reckon that gives us a pretty good idea of whether they are worth buying or not.

About the RV5

Released in 2006, the Oztent RV5 is the biggest in the RV range, and is designed to sleep, 5 people. It would be a tight fit though! They are made from 8 ounce ripstop poly-cotton canvas, with a heavy duty PVC floor. I’ve been seriously impressed with the attention to detail and quality-of-build in my RV tent.

There’s plenty of examples of this attention to detail. The guy ropes are conveniently bright orange so you can easily see them – and they’re thick, very strong, and tuck away into little pockets. Compare this to the average guy rope and the difference in quality is obvious. The main zipper is made by YKK, who make over half of the zippers in the world – top quality. The canvas is lightweight but durable, and 100% waterproof. And the list goes on.

How’s this for attention to detail? Each guy rope has its own little pocket so it can be tucked away neatly.

Setting up the Oztent RV5

It takes only 30 seconds. Can it really be that simple? Once you have the tent out of its bag, you can easily fold it out and stand it up in 30 seconds. It takes me longer to get it off the roof rack of our Land Cruiser and out of the bag than it does to stand it up. From there, you bang in a few pegs and a couple of guy ropes (depending on how windy it is but always a good idea) and you’re good to go.

Showing you how it’s done. The quickest tent of this size to set up? You betcha.

We run the mesh floor saver too (to protect the bottom of the tent) which adds a bit of time to the process. But, you can easily have the floor saver down, tent up, and pegged out in under 5 minutes with two people. We are always set up and relaxing before others. When you do it for 35 nights in a row through the Kimberley, you need a tent that is simple, easy, and reliable.

Is it functional?

Right, so it’s all well and good to have a tent that you can set up quickly, but does it actually work? Absolutely.

I don’t reckon you can go past an Oztent for comfort and practicality. For overnight stays, we flick it up with a few pegs, then load our gear inside. If we are staying for more than a night the awning comes out, and sometimes the front and side panels.

Throw on a front panel and some side panels and you extend your living area by a heap. Perfect for those occasions when you want to set up in one place for a while.

There are 5 windows/vents that can be opened up in various ways to improve airflow (and alleviate condensation), a little opening to bring an electrical lead into the tent, intelligent tie-back setups for the front door and awning, along with a whole realm of additional accessories you can purchase should you want to go all out. These include a fly, tagalong tent, awning connector, ground sheets, and side and front panels to add extra room.

There’s nothing worse than not being able to stand up inside a tent. I’m 6”6 and struggled immensely to find a suitable tent that I could stand in. The RV5 allows me to (in the tallest section) near the front door, which is a huge win.

How does it fare in bad weather?

Western Australia’s coastline is beautiful, but it can also be unbearably windy. We spent 5 nights at Gnaraloo Station in 2013 and experienced the worst wind while camping in our lives. We had 20kg limestone rocks securing our gazebo in each corner, as the tent pegs kept getting ripped out of the ground, and our 4WDs were even parked to block the wind. If it weren’t for the amazing coastline we would have left much earlier!

Double vision? Nah, just must be a couple of serious campers at this camping spot. 

I was expecting to see our Oztent broken every time we drove back to camp, but it suffered zero damage. For 5 days the wind was relentless, and the Oztent just took it in its stride. We saw multiple tents break in various ways, but no RVs! They are tested in up to 100km/h winds and are shaped so the wind blows over the top without catching anywhere.

As for rain and hail, we’ve spent several nights in the Oztent while it bucketed down, and never had any problems with water ingress. The sewing and canvas are brilliant. I woke up one morning in Bremer Bay, to find about 20kg of water pooled in the middle of the awning, due to my lazy setup procedure the day before.

The only damage we have done to our RV is a tiny hole in the PVC floor. We normally take the time to sweep away anything that could damage the bottom of the tent before setting up, but something must have evaded us – it even put a hole in the mesh floor saver. Aside from this though, we’ve had no damage – it’s really well built.

What are the limitations?

The RV5 fills a certain niche, and it does it very well. However, this means it’s not suitable for some camping applications. The main limitation is its physical size and weight. Packed up, it’s 2 metres long by 45cm wide and 20cm tall. At 23kg, it’s not the sort of tent you’d be able to take hiking, or put in the back of your little hatchback.

The RV5 doesn’t exactly pack down small – it takes up the length of the roof rack. But hey, easy pitching and quality come at a price. 

They are also not cheap. Expect to pay anywhere from about just over a grand for an RV5 from Snowys. However, you know what they say – a poor man buys twice!

Overall

Oztent has been around for over 20 years, producing a variety of camping shelter options, and camping furniture. Their tents can be seen all over the world, and have changed the way we camp. We are extremely pleased with our Oztent and have had many enjoyable times with it.

If you are looking for a quality tent that is simple and quick to set up and can handle harsh Aussie conditions, look no further than the Oztent RV5.

Why did you buy an Oztent RV Tent? What’s your favourite thing about it?

The post Review: Oztent RV5 Touring Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Use this guide to narrow your choice before you get bogged down in small details like the number of rooms, awnings, accessories and fabrics.

Choose a tent can be confusing. Image: Oztent

First, let’s talk about tent seasons

Tents have a season rating, these ratings are not stamped on the tent according to standards or guidelines, they are just a guide.

• What is a one-season tent?

One season tents are designed to be used in warm or tropical conditions, so they are very breathable and generally won’t be suitable to use in rainy conditions.

• What is a two-season tent?

Two season tents are designed for spring and autumn use and can withstand light rain and wind.

Some tents are designed to be optimal to use in warm conditions. Image: Sea to Summit

• What is a three-season tent?

Three season tents are suitable to use during summer, autumn and spring and can withstand moderate wind and rain or very light snow.

• What is a four-season tent?

Four season tents are suitable for winter use, and can withstand rain, wind and snow, but won’t cover extreme weather conditions.

• What is an expedition tent?

Expedition tents are suitable for use in extreme weather conditions.

You’ll need a four-season or expedition tent for very cold conditions. Image: Sea to Summit

What season tent will I need for general camping?

For the most part, a three-season tent is suitable for a majority of campers as they offer the most versatility in terms of weather protection and options for ventilation. Family tents are in almost all cases a three-season tent, to cater for a range of weather conditions.

Tent styles and what they’re best used for:

Dome tents

Aptly named on account of their simplistic dome-like appearance, dome tents usually feature two poles that cross diagonally from tent corner to tent corner.

There are variations with extra poles to create storage vestibules and to increase interior space. Some even have ‘quick pitch’ or ‘instant pitch’ frames. But, at the end of the day, they are identified by their characteristic dome shape.

Dome tents come in different variations. Image: Coleman Australia

Quick pitch touring tents

With the daily set-up and pack-down routine of touring holidays, comes the need for tents that pitch and pack away easily and quickly.

Touring tents generally feature an all-in-one design that incorporates an inner attached to a frame that snaps, clicks, locks or extends easily into place, leaving you with just a few pegs and guy ropes to deal with.

There are many types of tents in this category, utilising both heavy-duty canvas and lightweight materials. They are usually more ‘boxy’ in appearance than dome tents. But their main point of identification is their ‘quick pitch’ all-in-one construction.

For those setting up shelter every night, a touring tent is ideal. Image: Snowys Outdoors

Family tents

The biggest selling category for Snowys, and whilst some touring tents can also be labelled family tents, these are generally quite affordable and feature room dividers, large vestibules and often extendable awnings to create a comfortable living space for family holidays.

Pole structures vary from large dome-style configurations to various designs normally utilising flexible fibreglass poles.

Family tents are usually a larger dome style. Image: Coleman Australia

Cabin tents

Big and heavy yet spacious and sturdy, cabin tents are usually made of heavy-duty materials, feature strong steel frames, and have, as its name suggests, a cabin-like appearance with multiple rooms and living spaces.

Cabin tents are most suited to long stays in caravan parks and family-friendly campsites. They offer roomy and comfortable living areas, almost like a mini house.

Big canvas tents are heavier and bulkier, but extremely spacious. Image: Zempire

Hiking tents and bivvies

Weight and pack size are important here, a hiking tent needs to fit into a rucksack, bike pannier or kayak and weigh in at around 2kg or less. They usually offer enough space for 1-2 people plus a little bit of gear.

This category is where season ratings are most relevant. This is because they’re used as a primary source of shelter in areas of weather extremes.

A bivvy bag is an ultra-lightweight one-person shelter, often carried for emergency protection. They are simply a waterproof sack that one user can crawl in to stay dry when caught out in unexpected weather changes.

Often used for mountaineering where climbers sleep on exposed ledges too small for tents.

Hiking tents are compact and ultralight. Image: MSR

Swags and stretcher tents

The humble swag, an image of which has represented camping and the outdoors for hundreds of years, is one of the most popular ways to ‘rough it’ in the bush.

Made with canvas, a simple mattress, all rolled up with your bedding inside and secured with a couple of straps, the swag is a no-fuss approach to camping.

Nowadays there are dome swags with features such as poles, multiple entrances, insect mesh and storage pockets. However, the traditional envelope swag is still preferred for those who like to keep it simple.

Recently, some smart cookies came up with the idea of combining a swag with a stretcher and created the stretcher tent.

In a nutshell, these are swags with a metal, folding pole structure that gets you up off the ground. These are popular for campers who want to add a little extra comfort to their swag setup.

A swag provides reliable shelter for general camping. Image: Oztent

So, what should you take from this guide?

There is no right or wrong when it comes to tent choice, only what’s right for your circumstances.

Common sense prevails in some instances. You won’t want to take a cabin tent on an expedition to Patagonia for instance. At the end of the day, your tent choice comes down to how, when and where you will be using your shelter, and what is going to achieve your desired outcomes.

How versatile are the tents in your gear stash? 

The post Guide to Understanding Tent Seasons & Ratings appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Well, I’m going to add to the list, because we’ve recently bought one! We’ve had heaps of tents over the years and each one was bought for a reason. Whether it was for a specific destination in mind or to accommodate a growing family. Now after many years of owning a caravan, we’ve actually bought another tent, for another very good reason.

I mentioned on another blog that my son and his family were borrowing our caravan so we bought stretchers for our grandkids. First time caravanning/camping they didn’t want to be sleeping away from mum and dad in swags or small tents, so we planned for them to sleep in the Annexe.

We have always been happy with the quality of our other Oztent products.

But wait, after writing that blog, we had a much better idea … add a room, and when we saw an Easter special at Snowys on the RV4, we jumped at the opportunity.

We have always been happy with the quality of our other Oztent products (chairs and stretchers) and the RV 4 didn’t let us down. After we got it home we had to test the 30-second theory, plus we wanted to season the stitching (wet it).

Did it really take 30 seconds to set up?

My wife with a stopwatch in hand and me on the starting blocks, I got to work. Even without reading any instructions (think it’s a male thing), I found out it really can be put up in less than 30 seconds. But then you so have to peg it out. It wasn’t hard at all to finish off. This tent has a terrific design and superb construction. There are little pockets for guy ropes, good size and quality pegs (not ones that bend on first use) and a couple of lightweight poles.

Oh, by the way, the grandkids love their new room and of course the box it came in.

How it fits into the rest of our set up

As an extra room, the Oztent butts up perfectly to our awning. Just add a section of the annexe to enclose the area and voila! Sleeping quarters plus an annexed eating area – safe and secure. We can also see the RV4 working well in the future as a great stand-alone shelter when we really go bush and can’t take the caravan.

Size and weight

It is heavier than a ‘normal’ tent and it’s big to cart around. But it fit’s on the top of the 4WD quite well, so we can cope with the extra size. It’s ease of construction definitely far outweighs its bulk. It’s a no-brainer to put up, quick and easy…our sort of tent.

Do you have an Oztent RV? Do you rate it as much as I do? 

The post An Extra Room in 30 Seconds with the Oztent RV4 appeared first on Snowys Blog.

Remember, what one person says is the best tent, is not necessarily the best tent for you.

2, 3 or 4 season?

• 2 season tents offer little protection. They are best suited to warm dry conditions and mild weather.
• 3 season tents are the most popular type, they offer comfort in all but the extreme of climates. These are the best option for anyone wanting an “all round” tent. 3 season tents are usually dual skin with a mesh inner.
• 4 season tents are made of heavier materials, feature full nylon inners and more poles making them warm and stable in bad weather. They are best suited for someone predominantly winter camping.
• Snow/Expedition tents are specialised, heavy and often expensive. They are not the best option for someone looking for an all-round tent. These tents are built sturdy to withstand snow loading and extremely high winds.

Ask yourself: In what climate will I mostly be using my tent?

Weight, space or durability?

There is always a trade-off for a lighter tent, there is no way around it. When you shave off a few grams, you are often shaving off something else such as durability, space or stability. It is nice to have space in your tent, especially if you are bunkered down in bad weather, but you will still have to carry the tent to your next campsite.

Ask yourself: What is more important – weight, space or durability?

Features?

Organiser pockets, stuff sacks for guy ropes, fully featured carry bags and gear lofts, they are all great features but are you really going to utilise them. If you think about it, all you really need is a groundsheet, inner and a waterproof fly with some room to store your gear. You only want to carry what you are actually going to use!

Ask yourself: What are the crucial features I want in my tent?

Price?

The big question on every tent buyers lips – how much does it cost? Once again, there is always a trade-off between price and the tents features.

The entry-level tents at Snowys are fantastic value for money and will serve the casual user for many years. A hiker who finds themselves on the trail at every opportunity, however, will benefit from investing a little more money.

Ask yourself: Do I need a basic tent for occasional use, or should I invest a little more in strength and reliability?

Write the answers to these questions down, and keep them handy when you are doing your tent research. It will help narrow your options and keep you focused on what features are important to you. There is no right or wrong answer to any of these questions, it is all personal preference…Happy tent hunting!

If you’re still confused and need some help, call us on 1900 914 007, or drop into the store at 92 Richmond Rd, Keswick SA, for non-biased expert advice before buying a hiking tent.

The post Read this Before Buying a Hiking Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

As we stock both of these tents at Snowys, our customers often ask “Which tent is the best?” The fact is, there is no straightforward answer. We recommend you approach your decision from a different angle and ask yourself: “Which tent is better for my needs?”

Having owned both the Oztent RV3 and now a Turbo Lite 240 Plus, I have found that my tent setup has changed quite a lot from being a young single bloke heading off to explore Australia to now travelling with my wife and 18 month old daughter two young daughters.

In this blog, I have summarised the key considerations to select the right tent for your camping needs.

What’s your style?

These tents suit different styles of camping and family sizes. Before reading on, have a really good think about what you want to get out of your touring tent.

Here are a few things to consider:

• How much living space do you want?
• How many people are you sleeping?
• What accessory options would you like to have on your tent?
• Do you have a lot of gear that needs to be kept out of the weather?
• Pack size, and space in your car?

The Turbo Cabin 450 all guyed out. 

Built to last

I have used both tents extensively, including in harsh weather conditions, and I can honestly say that I cannot pick between the two tents on this basis. The quality of both tents from their design, choice of materials, and the workmanship is exceptional.

Time is precious

The most talked about comparison between the tents is the time it takes to set them up. The answer is not as simple as you might think as you really need to compare apples with apples, so let’s take the RV4 and the Turbo 240 Canvas as our first comparison.

• The Oztent (see instructions) is literally up and ready to sleep in, in about 30 seconds flat! This is because the Oztent inner is waterproof, and does not require a fly or extended awning.
• Thirty seconds will see your Turbo 240 inner good to go (see video), but won’t protect you from the elements until you add the fly which’ll take a little extra time.
• When comparing the time it takes to set up each tent including the fly and extended awnings, you will find that the setup time comes in at around the same click on the stopwatch.

Size matters

• The Oztent RV come in 5 different sizes, with the largest tent measuring in at 2.6m x 2.6m. Of course, you can add walls to the awning and a tagalong tent, but I’ll get to the accessories a bit later.

• The Turbo Tents comes in many different shapes and sizes so you can choose the size of your tent to suit the size of your family and camp setup. Turbo Tent sizes range from a small single room Turbo 210, to a huge Turbo Lite Twin 300 that has 3 rooms, as well as an awning that can be enclosed just like the Oztent.

The RV3 set up in its simplest form. 30 seconds worth, right there.

Speed vs Space

Here is where it starts to get a little complicated. You’ll see why the tents are suited to different camping setups. Let’s compare 2 setups.

1. Basic Setup (Both tents, similar size, with fly and extended awning):

• In a race for both tents to be pitched in this manner, both competitors would be enjoying the sunset at about the same time.
• However, for an express roadside stop, the Oztent would be a quicker option as it can be pitched, and slept in without the addition of the fly or extended awning.

2. Large Setup (Turbo 300 Plus and Oztent RV5 both with fly and enclosed awning):

• Once again, both of these tents would take about the same time when setup in this manner.
• But, if living space is what you are after, then the clear winner here is the Turbo Tent.

Having said that, the Turbo will always have to be set up in full for weather protection and stability, but the Oztent can still be set up in 30 seconds for those quick overnight stops, which leads me to the next comparison.

Versatility of options

Whilst both tents have the option for side walls and a front wall for their awnings, the Oztent is by far the most versatile tent.

• Because of Oztent’s ‘Lego’ like set up, you simply start with a 30-second tent and add what you want from there to make your Oztent into whatever you want.
• All Oztent parts join to each other so you can have anything from a single room set up, to a huge castle of Oztents and accessories that all join together, and even connect up to a Fox Wing or the side of a caravan!
• The Turbo Tent has many options for walls and screen rooms to customise your set up, however, if you buy a small Turbo, it will always be a small Turbo. And if you buy a big Turbo, it will always be a big Turbo. So, you’re limited on just how versatile you can make the turbo tent.

Accessorise

There are many accessories that can be used with both tents, and both of them have the ability to enclose the awning. So, without going into too many options I will highlight a few of the key differences between the tents.

Dollars and Cents:

• The Oztent and standard Turbo tent are both made from poly-cotton canvas and have tough PVC floors. These are going to cost you roughly the same amount.
• The ‘Lite’ material options in the Turbo Tent range are more affordable. Check out our “Canvas vs Lite” blog for more info on these fabrics.
• Turbo Tent accessories are available in both canvas and ‘Lite’ and are interchangeable between tents.
• Oztent accessories are made of the same poly-cotton canvas as the tents, and while providing more durability, are more expensive.

The Wrap Up:

When comparing these two tents there is no clear winner. Both tents sit at the top of the food chain when it comes to high quality touring tents. However, the tents do suit different types of camping, so it is important to think about what you want from your setup.

• Oztent: Much more versatile and allows a very quick set up when stopping overnight, but also accommodates for extended stays and larger families by simply zipping on a few accessories. The Oztent tends to suit smaller families and couples who would prefer a faster set up and more versatility, but don’t mind compromising on a bit of living space.
• Turbo Tent: Seems to suit larger families or those people who appreciate a bit more living space for beds and bags, and want to have room to stand up to get changed

Personally, my wife and I loved our Oztent RV3. When our daughter came along we needed a lot more space, the porta cot alone would not fit in the Oztent, let alone bags, nappies etc. So we moved to a Turbo Lite 240 plus that gave us a huge amount of room, in a much quicker setup time than it would take adding accessories to the Oztent.

I would highly recommend the Turbo Tents to younger families, but having said that, when my kids are old enough to jump into their own tents, the Oztent might just make its way back onto the roof of the old 4X4!

I hope this article helps make the choice between Oztent and Turbo tent easy. For more information, read all of our touring tent blogs and check out the range of tents and accessories on the Snowys website.

The post Oztent or Turbo Tent – The Choice Made Easy appeared first on Snowys Blog.

The Black Wolf Turbo Tent is one of the most popular touring tents on the market, and it has a huge range of sizes and accessory options. Changes to the tents over the last few years have made it a tad confusing to choose a combination of models and accessories that will achieve your desired camp setup.

But, scrap all your research notes to date! Below is all the information you’ll need to buy the correct Black Wolf Turbo Tent and accessory combination.

Material

The canvas Turbo Tent is made from a heavy-duty poly cotton ripstop canvas with a heavy-duty PVC tub floor.

The ‘Lite’ tent is made from 150 denier ripstop PU coated polyester with a 2000mm water head rating and features a 500 denier polyester PU coated floor.

Both tent options have the same strong 25mm aluminium tube frame.

Read our blog “Black Wolf Turbo Tents – Turbo Lite vs Canvas” for a full rundown on the differences between these fabrics.

Size Options

There are many sizes of Turbo Tents. Stay with me as I break down which sizes are available in each material.

A sample floor plan of a Turbo. In this case the Turbo Lite 300.

Turbo Lite

Turbo Lite 210 – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 2.1m X 2.1m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo Lite 240 – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 2.4m X 2.4m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo Lite 300 – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 3m X 3m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo Lite Plus

Turbo Lite 240 Plus – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 2.4m X 2.4m PLUS an extra room at the back of the tent that is 2.4m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre, 3 pole awning.

Turbo Lite 300 Plus – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 3m X 3m PLUS an extra room at the back of the tent that is 3m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre, 3 pole awning.

Turbo Lite Twin

Turbo Lite Twin 240 – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 2.4m X 2.4m and rooms on the sides of the tent each with floor dimensions 2.4m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning on the front of the tent and a smaller 2 pole awning on the back.

Turbo Lite Twin 300 – A lite material tent, floor dimensions of 3m X 3m and rooms on the sides of the tent each with floor dimensions 3m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning on the front of the tent, and a smaller 2 pole awning on the back.

Turbo Canvas

Turbo 210 – A canvas tent, floor dimensions of 2.1m X 2.1m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo 240 – A canvas tent, floor dimensions of 2.4m X 2.4m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo 300 – A canvas tent, floor dimensions of 3m X 3m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre 3 pole awning.

Turbo Canvas Plus Tents

Turbo 240 Plus – A canvas tent, floor dimensions of 2.4m X 2.4m PLUS an extra room at the back of the tent that is 2.4m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre, 3 pole awning.

Turbo 300 Plus – A canvas tent, floor dimensions of 3m X 3m PLUS an extra room at the back of the tent that is 3m X 1.8m. This tent comes with a full 2 metre, 3 pole awning.

Awnings

Black Wolf Turbo Tents that were built in 2012 and earlier come with a 2 pole awning that does not have the ability to add side and front panels to fully enclose the front awning.

Turbo Tents built 2013 onwards come with a new full 2m, 3 pole awning. This enables you to add side and front panels to fully enclose the front awning.

The ‘Lite FS’ series had a free standing awning that was faster and simpler to erect, however, these have all been upgraded to a three pole awning as of 2013.

Note: The new 3 pole awning fly cannot be purchased separately to add to older model tents.

Side Panels

Side panels are available in solid, mesh, or deluxe which features a gusseted weatherproof window.

Each panel can be used on either side (i.e. there is no left or right panels).

An example of how the Turbo Deluxe Side Panel works and looks on the Turbo Tent.

These side panels are available in both the lite and canvas materials.

Front Panels

Front panels also come in lite and canvas material and have a door on one side of the panel.

A canvas Front Panel on the front of a 300 series Turbo.

The front panel attaches via velcro to the top of the awning and to the side panels down the outer poles.

Turbo Extenda Awnings

Turbo Extenda Awnings are a great way to extend the length of your awning or to join two tent awnings together.

This is what the Extenda Awning looks like on the front of a canvas Turbo.

Can be used as a stand-alone shelter with the addition of extra poles.

Screen Rooms

Screen Rooms are available specific to the size of your Turbo Tent.

This is how the Turbo Screen Awning Room fits under the awning of a 240 series Turbo.

Side and front panels can be used in conjunction with the screen rooms. This will completely enclose the awning of your Turbo Tent.

Update March 2015: the Super Fly and Basecamp Fly accessories are no longer available – we have included them in this article for your reference. Since the upgrade to the three pole awning, the same result can be achieved with new accessories for the Turbo range mentioned above.

Super Fly (Discontinued):

The Super Fly is a large canvas additional fly that can be purchased to provide a large enclosed front veranda.

The Super Fly is only available for the Canvas Turbo 240 and Canvas Turbo 300 tents.

It is not available for any other model tent including the Canvas Turbo Plus models.

The Super Fly was designed to give an option of having a large enclosed awning on the 2012 and earlier tents that did not have the option of adding side and front panels to the front awning.

Super Fly Screen Room (Discontinued)

The Super Fly Screen room is an enclosed, bug proof screen room that clips to the frame of the super fly. It is not free standing.

For this reason, it can only be used with the super fly on the Canvas Turbo 240 and Canvas Turbo 300 tents.

Base Camp Fly (Discontinued)

The Base Camp Fly is a large additional fly designed to provide the tent with a large enclosed front veranda.

This fly is very similar to the Super Fly however it is made from the “lite” material. The Base Camp Fly will only fit the following Turbo tents:

• Turbo 240 Lite and Canvas series.
• Turbo 300 Lite and Canvas series.
• Turbo Lite 240 Plus (manufactured 2012 and after).
• Turbo 240 Plus (manufactured 2012 and after).
• Turbo Lite 300 Plus (manufactured 2012 and after)
• Turbo 300 Plus (manufactured 2012 and after)

Note: Turbo Plus models manufactured prior to 2012 had a square-shaped pole over the extra room or “plus” section of the tent, the Base Camp Fly only fits the newer models with the rounded shape pole. Replacement poles are not available.

Base Camp Fly Screen Room (Discontinued)

This screen room is designed to create a bug proof room within the base camp fly.

The Base Camp Fly Screen Room clips inside the Base Camp Fly only. It cannot be fitted inside the existing awning of your Turbo Tent.

Remember, if you have any questions, or would like further advice from people that actually use these tents, give the friendly staff at Snowys a call, flick us an email, or leave a comment down below.

The post Black Wolf Turbo Tents – Sizes & Accessories Explained appeared first on Snowys Blog.

But, what are the differences between the Turbo Lite and the standard canvas tent? What compromises are made when purchasing the Turbo Lite option? Keep reading to find out all you need to know when comparing Turbo Lite vs Canvas.

Turbo a highly sought after, top-of-the-range tent from Black Wolf. 

Material

• The canvas Turbo tents are made from a heavy-duty 230gsm poly cotton ripstop canvas with a 5000mm water head rating and a heavy-duty 600D Siliconised Polyester 10000mm rated floor.
• The Turbo Lite tents are made from 150D ripstop PU coated polyester with 2000mm water head rating and feature a 500D polyester PU coated 5000mm rated floor.
• The frame on the canvas version is a 25mm aluminium whilst the Lite version ustilses a slightly lighter 23mm aluminium tube.

Strength

• Both versions of the Turbo Tents are very strong making these tents one of the few that should stand up in severe weather conditions.
• The Canvas tents do offer a little more strength, durability and longevity when compared to the ‘lite’ tents. The canvas material also offers a higher level of weather protection.

Lifespan

• Turbo tents carry a 3 Year warranty against manufacturing defects.
• Both tents, when looked after and used correctly, should last many, many years.
• UV rays will effect ‘lite’ material faster than the canvas. Whilst you will get exceptional life from any of the Turbo tents, this UV degradation will take hold sooner on the lite versions that their canvas counterparts. Of course, this is not covered under warranty as this would be deemed as the end of the tents life.
• To get the most out of each type of tent you will need to ensure the tent is kept clean, always set up on a ground sheet, and never put away wet or damp.
• Always wash your tent down with fresh water and allow to dry completely after each trip.

The Black Wolf Turbo Plus 240 canvas is more breathable compared to the lite. 

Breathability

• Canvas is a breathable material allowing heat to escape more easily from the tent.
• This will make the canvas tents more pleasant during hot conditions as the ‘lite’ material tents will heat up and can resemble an oven in sweltering conditions.
• All tents have great ventilation with vents in the roof and large gusseted windows. But you may find that the canvas tents are a little more bearable in hot conditions.

For me personally, I plan on being at the beach, the pool or the pub for those times the mercury climbs into the 40s!

Set up

We’ve been talking up the canvas tents in the previous topics but now it’s time for a win to the ‘lite’ material tents.

• When it comes to setting up and packing down these tents the ‘lite’ material is a clear winner, especially in the larger sized tents.
• The canvas tents with their heavy duty fabrics can be more cumbersome to set up. They’re also more difficult to get back into their bags, although Black Wolf have made their tent bags a sensible size so it’s far from impossible.
• The lighter material tents make the whole process of setting up and packing down much easier. This is because you won’t have to wrestle with the heavy thick materials of the canvas tents.
• For more on how to get the best of your turbo tent when setting it up, then check out this article here. 

Weight

• Obviously, the ‘lite’ tents are the winner of this category as the whole point of them is to be lighter.
• The ‘lite’ material tents are about 15% lighter than their canvas counterparts. This makes them much easier to manage during set up and pack down.
• The lighter tents are easier to place on top of roof rack and help to lower the overall weight of your loaded vehicle.

Personally, I can lift the Turbo 240 Lite Plus on to my roof racks easily on my own, but I cannot lift the Turbo 240 Plus canvas tent above my head safely.

Cost

Finally, cost is an important factor with the ‘lite’ material tents costing less than the canvas versions! I believe both tents are great value for money but if you’re on a budget, the ‘lite’ material option may be just what you need. You’ll be able to get a high quality touring tent making your camping experience that much more enjoyable!

The Turbo Plus 300 Tent ticks all the boxes but costs more than the lite version. 

Conclusion

Canvas

• At the end of the day, if you want the best of the best, the canvas tents will tick all the boxes. They’re one of the best touring tents on the market, but you will pay for it from both your hip pocket and the weight in your vehicle.
• The Canvas Turbo tents are better suited to people who want a heavy duty tent, and are more likely to leave the tent set up in one location for a long period of time, especially in hot conditions.

Lite:

• The ‘lite’ tents provide a fantastic compromise of strength and durability while being a little lighter to use and easier on the hip pocket.
• It is important to realise the limitations of the ‘lite’ tents when using them. Don’t expect them to perform to the high standards of the canvas tents.
• The Turbo Lite tents are best suited for people who are constantly on the move. They are easier to handle when setting up and packing down, lighter to transport and see little UV light each trip.

Either way, if you’re in weather conditions that see these tents blown over, you have either set the tent up incorrectly, or you should have stayed at home.

Hopefully, we have answered any questions regarding the differences between the Black Wolf Turbo Lite and Turbo Canvas tents. Check out the full range of Turbo Tents on our website. 

The post Comparing the Black Wolf Turbo Lite and Canvas Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

About a decade ago, a trip to Snowys saw us leave with an Oztent RV3 Touring Tent which, after many years of great trips, we think it’s the ‘ducks guts’ of tents. With the speediness of set up, sizes to suit most needs and a host of accessories to add further functionality, the Oztent RV Tents have it all. However, Oztent RVs can be a bit difficult to transport in a lot of vehicles, so in this post, I’ve outlined my three top tips to transporting your Oztent RV Tent by slinging it on the roof racks whilst still keeping it weather proof and secure without damaging your tent or car!!

Something I have learnt over the years is that if you want something that’s going to last and save you money in the long term, then you need to buy the best and the Oztent RV Tent really applies to this philosophy. While it doesn’t take us exactly 30 seconds to set up ( in reality it’s closer to five minutes), if you include taking the tent out of its bag, setting it up and pegging it down, five minutes before you’re ready to have that first drink in your hand is hard to beat.

Because I have spent a lot of money on my tent, I have tended to over-engineer in finding a solution to each of these issues.

Spread the Load of the Oztent RV

The Oztent RV tent is long and thin which raises a couple of transport issues. Most vehicles have 2 roof bars, meaning the whole weight of the tent is concentrated on a very small area and considerable flexing can happen, especially on rough outback tracks. This can cause wearing at these points and undue flexing can cause wearing or potential breaking of the frame joints.

So there you have it, if you follow these tips you’ll have a secure, well-supported and weather protected Oztent RV tent!

The post How to Transport your Oztent RV Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

As usual, you need to consider where you are going, how you are travelling and what you will be doing at your destination. This will give you some idea of whether to pack light or if you can afford to carry a little extra and perhaps have a little more comfort. Another thing to consider, as much as we don’t like to, is expense or cost of a tent; what can you afford? Be realistic and try to weigh up the cost of a suitable, comfortable tent opposed to what you can afford.

Tents are a bit like many other things, the more you pay, the better quality it will be. For example, the more you pay for a hiking tent, the stronger and lighter weight the material will be. With general purpose canvas tents, the more you pay the higher quality and more features it will have.

So at this stage, you find yourself getting a little confused…so here is a list of what you should consider.

Things to consider when buying a tent:

• How much can I afford?
• How many people & what gear does the tent have to accommodate?
• What features are necessary?
• How many rooms are needed within the tent?
• What material is best for the tent to be made out of, canvas or dome, lightweight polyester type material?
• Where are you going to use the tent most, for hiking, touring by vehicle, are there height or weight limitations?
• What climate will the tent be used in, cold, windy, wet, dry, hot?
• Will the tent be used for short (overnight) or longer-term accommodation?

One of the most important decisions that will need to be made is what type of tent you need. There are three common types of tents, some of the pros and cons of each tent type are listed below.

Cabin Tents

A cabin tent usually consists of a metal frame upon which a canvas outer layer is then attached. These tents are popular for longer camp stays. They usually offer generous space with multiple rooms, significant head-room and often a very large awning and/or annexe offering the closest thing to a home away from home.

Something to keep in mind is that this type of tent is usually bulky and heavy which makes them impractical for lightweight camping.

Touring Tents

Traditionally touring tents were made out of heavy canvas, however, newer designs have started incorporating lighter synthetic/semi-synthetic materials with an integrated frame. This type of tent has a significant advantage in that they are very fast to set-up and take down.

Keep in mind that touring tents are not too dissimilar to cabin tents in that the frame components are large and bulky resulting in usually needing to be carried on roof racks or trailer while travelling.

Centre Pole Tourer Tents

The centre pole tent in some ways is a simplified version of the touring tent although its construction is based upon the use of a “centre pole” as a major part of the frame. These feature a quicker and easier setup than a traditional cabin and touring tents. While they still offer relatively good head-room the floor/sleeping space can be quite small.

They are lighter weight than cabin tents and are considered a good compromise between a heavy but roomy cabin tent and the light but small dome tent. Centre pole tents will sometimes come with an optional front awning. And, floor-space can sometimes be increased with the purchase of optional side poles.

Dome Tents

Dome tents are by far the most common type of tent, however, this doesn’t mean that they are the best option that will suit everybody. They consist of a hoop frame, surrounded by synthetic fabric to create a dome shape with no corners. The frames are usually either made from fibreglass rods which must be constructed into hoops and slotted into the material or from hoops already integrated into the material which offer a far quicker setup time.

Integrated hoops will either fold out or “pop-up” with the pop-up version usually reserved for smaller dome tents. Larger types of dome tents may also incorporate an outer awning and/or front vestibule. This can be used as additional storage.

The dome tent is seen to be the most versatile and portable type of tent on the market. However they do tend to offer less head-room in comparison to the other tent designs mentioned above.

Hiking Tents

Hiking tents are usually used for lightweight camping where there are no vehicles available to carry a larger possibly more comfortable tent. Therefore hiking tents are required to be lightweight and designed to be carried in a small pack.

These tents do not have a lot of room, just enough to sleep with minimal room for any gear. They’re usually designed for one or two people with the weight being a major consideration. The tent usually consists of a nylon outer fly with a breathable inner, poly floor with fibre-glass or alloy pole/frame system.

Older style hiking tents usually were an “A” frame design, although as time has gone on are more commonly of a dome shape. There are various designs available to satisfy consumers’ requirements.

There are many more features to look at in regards to choosing the correct ‘fit for purpose’ tent, this is just a brief summary.

If you have any stories or suggestions on this topic, we’d love to hear from you. Just leave a comment below! Also, check out Michael’s article on why he owns six tents himself!

The post Pitch Perfect: Choosing the Right Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

The Black Wolf Turbo Tent is a fantastic tent that offers a large amount of space with a relatively quick set up time. When it’s not in use it packs down to a fairly compact size making it very easy to transport and store. I have put Black Wolf Turbo Tents up and down many times and after hearing lots of feedback from people using these tents I have a few handy tips that may help you to get the best out of your tent.

1. Pegging out the tent

• After pulling the tent out of its bag, unfold the legs and lock the knuckles into place.
• Before pushing the tent up, peg it out firmly. These tents do not stand up easily on their own as they are prone to twisting around putting a lot of pressure on the top pole connection.
• Once you’ve popped the tent up, you may need to peg the tent out a little tighter.
• Also, choose pegs to suit the medium you’ll be pegging into – soft soil may require longer pegs, sand may require sand pegs, and so on.

2. Using the guy ropes

As with any tent, the guy ropes will need to be pegged out tightly to hold the frame securely. In windy conditions, the tent may twist and bend putting unnatural pressure on the pole knuckles and joints. By putting the guy ropes out correctly, the tent will not be allowed to twist around, giving it the best chance to stand up to windy conditions. (We recently published a blog on storm proofing your tent. Check it out.)

3. Attaching the fly

As mentioned above, putting the guy ropes out is very important. The Blackwolf Turbo tents only have guy ropes attached to the fly. This means that the fly almost always has to be put on in order to secure the tent. In fair conditions, you may get away with not putting the fly on, in which case you may like to tie some ropes to the frame and make your own guy ropes just in case the wind picks up during the night.

Handsome looking tent is the Turbo, don’t you think?

4. Using the awning

The 3 pole awning provides sun and rain protection but it does not have the option of being zipped down/closed completely, you need to set it up every time. If you fit it with side and front panels you can create another weatherproof space for storage or a room to bunker down in if the weather is bad.

5. Additions to improve your turbo set up

Along with side and front panels the 3 pole awning, there is a host of other accessories you can add to your Turbo Tent to customise your set up. A Turbo Groundsheet will not only protect the floor of your tent but provide covered ground under the awning, whilst a Turbo Awning Screenroom creates a bug proof space.

If you want more space undercover, add a Turbo Extenda Awning to increase the sheltered space in front of your tent. Furthermore, the Extenda Awning is also compatible with side and front panels so you can create an even larger enclosed living space in which you can remain protected from bad weather.

6. Get an extra bag

Unfortunately, these tents can be a real hassle to get back into their bags. If possible, purchase another large good quality canvas bag that you can put the fly and the poles/pegs into. This not only makes it easier to get everything into the bag but as you will have two smaller and lighter parcels it makes it easier to carry.

A Groundsheet is a great idea to put under your Turbo to protect the floor of the tent.

7. Use extra straps

After collapsing the poles when packing up the tent, you’ll need to lay the tent down on the ground and roll it up. The strap that has been provided, to stop the tent from unravelling, is not the greatest option. If possible, purchase a couple of good quality straps to wrap tightly around the tent. This will hold the tent together and pull it all in smaller to make it a lot easier to put back into its bag.

8. Ground sheet/footprint

Even though these tents come with a very strong floor, it’s a great idea to put a tarp or ground sheet down to protect the floor of the tent. The last thing you want is a sharp stick or rock to puncture your new investment.

The Black Wolf Turbos are really brilliant tents. Using the above tips will hopefully allow you to get the best out of yours, and have an even more enjoyable experience using it to its full potential.

If you have used a Blackwolf Turbo Tent or know someone who has, please feel free to add any other useful tips in the comments section below.

The post How to Get the Best Out of Your Black Wolf Turbo Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.

I’ve had my Oztent RV3, with peaked side panels, front panel and fly, for two years now and have come across a few things that help me get the best out of my tent.

1. Setting up the Oztent

I’ve heard a few stories about Oztent frames breaking in strong winds. I have had my tent in conditions where tree branches were falling down around us and we had 30ml of rain in 30 minutes. My tent performed brilliantly even with a couple of pegs being pulled out. I am a strong believer that the key to having a tent survive severe weather has got more to do with set up than the quality of the tent itself.

If an Oztent frame is going to break, usually at the hinges, it happens often during the setup process in windy conditions. Whilst the tent can stand up on its own, make sure it’s pegged out before attempting to put the main section up. If it’s windy, wait for the wind to die down before putting the tent up. However, if you need to put it up in the wind, face the back of the tent towards the wind. And, if possible, get someone to help you put the mainframe into position.

Whatever you do, don’t allow the tent to twist in any direction other than what it is designed to do. This is when the plastic hinges are likely to break.

2. Use the guy ropes

The only way that the Oztent frame can break is if it’s allowed to twist around in directions it’s not designed to bend in. In windy conditions, all of the guy ropes need to be put out and pegged incorrectly.

The pegs will then hold tight and if correctly done, the direction of the guy ropes will ensure that they will not allow the tent to twist and bend in the wind.

The guys are there to be used. So use ’em. 

3. Put a ground sheet down

Even though the floor of the tent is very strong and completely waterproof, it’s a great idea to put an Oztent mesh floor saver, groundsheet, or tarp under the tent to protect it from sharp sticks and rocks. You would much rather puncture a $20 tarp than a $1000 tent.

Make sure that the tarp does not stick out past the edges of the tent because if it rains, the water may run between the tarp and the tent floor. If you have any small holes in the floor you will quickly find out where they are!

We recently wrote a blog on the benefits of a groundsheet – which you can check our for more information.

4. Add the fly

Oztent offer a fly for all RV tents. It’s made from polyester and simply zips onto the top to cover the main part of the tent. It’s very easy to use and can remain on the tent permanently if you want. The fly is not essential as the tent is completely waterproof without it. However, if you’re going into frosty conditions, you may experience a large amount of condensation forming on the ceiling of the tent. So for this reason, the fly can come in very handy.

By attaching the fly, you change the tent from a single skin to a dual-layered tent. This means that most of the condensation will form on the underside of the fly rather than the tent roof.

The first time I used our tent in the Flinders Rangers, we had a lot of frosts in the morning. The entire roof of the tent was frozen and when the sun came out, we had to pack our bed up as it felt like it was raining inside the tent. After purchasing the fly, we again went to the Flinders in similar conditions. We still had a little condensation in the tent but most of it was on the fly which we were able to remove and put into the sun to dry whilst we packed down our camp.

With the addition of the fly, the tent perform better in cold areas, and makes the tent even more waterproof in the rain. It also gives you seven more tie-down points for holding the tent secure in windy conditions.

This is what the Oztent fly looks like on an RV tent.

5. Attach the ridge poles

If you purchase the peaked side panels or front panel, you will be supplied with a ridge pole for each. The ridge pole for the peaked side panels goes on top of the tall awning poles. The ridge pole for the front panel goes on top of the front awning poles

We found that these ridge poles were very useful in keeping the awning tight. Therefore, we made sure that we packed both ridge poles in with the peaked side panels and used the front ridge pole even when we weren’t using the front panel.

Make sure you put the ridge pole between the awning pole and the awning with the guy ropes on top of everything. I’ve made the mistake of putting the ridge pole on last and paid the price when it blew off and hit my car in windy conditions.

A few more tips for using your tent in stormy weather:

We’ve already talked about putting the tent up correctly, but there are a few other things you can do to give it a fighting chance in stormy conditions.

1. Firstly, when setting the tent up try to pick the most sheltered spot available. The tent is very strong but you’re really not doing yourself any favours if you choose to test its limitations.
2. As well as facing the back of the tent to the wind, position your vehicle to block as much wind as possible from the tent.
3. If you’ve enclosed the awning using the side panels and front panel, dig a channel for the water to run around the awning part of the tent. There is no sealed bucket floor in this part of the tent. You may find that whilst you’re nice and dry inside your enclosed annexe, the water can come rushing in under the panels making your room rather muddy!

I have really enjoyed using my Oztent and have found it to be a very strong and practical tent. It is versatile and robust enough for almost any situation found whilst camping.

The above tips are a few things I have found that help me to get the best out my Oztent. If you have any other tips or ideas for using an Oztent, feel free to let us know.

The post How to Get the Best out of Your Oztent 30 Second Tent appeared first on Snowys Blog.