Ready for a Camping Upgrade? My TentBox Go Review
Okay, so I've reviewed a *lot* of tents. From the lightweight backpacking kind that barely keep the mosquitos out, to family-sized behemoths that could house a small village. But nothing – and I mean *nothing* – prepared me for the TentBox Go. This car-top tent? It's pure, unadulterated camping bliss. Imagine a treehouse, but way more comfortable and, you know, waterproof.
Why a Car-Top Tent? Seriously, Why Not?
Let’s be honest, who *actually* enjoys wrestling with tent poles on uneven, lumpy ground? The TentBox Go completely changes the game. You just park on something relatively level, pop it open, and you're done. No more fiddling around in the dark. Plus, it's always packed and ready to go – no more stuffing a bulky tent into your car, taking up precious space. Bring all your gear – chairs, the fancy camping stove, even that extra blanket (you know you need it!).
Price, Availability and The Nitty Gritty
Price: It’s a bit of an investment, coming in at £995 (UK), $1199 (US), or €1199 (EU). Availability: You can grab one directly from the manufacturer or from various dealers – they're pretty easy to find these days.
Specs and What All That Means
Here's the lowdown on the stats. It’s a pop-up car-top tent, measures 122 x 225 x 45cm packed, and 122 x 225 x 114cm when set up. It weighs 33kg – it's pretty hefty but manageable with two people. It's rated for 3 seasons, sleeps two comfortably, and sets up in – get this – about a minute! The flysheet's got a 3000mm hydrostatic head, meaning it can handle some serious rain.
Setting It Up, The Materials, and All the Cool Features
Getting the TentBox Go on and off your roof rack is surprisingly easy. Granted, storing it when it’s not on your car is a bit of a project (it's that 122cm x 225cm thing again), but at least it’s only 45cm high and you can stand it upright.
Setup: Unzip, two poles, done! That one-minute setup time is no joke. Materials: It’s built with tough stuff – waterproof, breathable ripstop fabric (with UV50 protection!), powder-coated aluminum poles, and heavy-duty YKK zippers. Doors and Ventilation: Two doors (with bug mesh, yay!), a big window, and a roof flap for stargazing. Ladder: The telescopic ladder (up to 2.6 meters) is genius. Interior: It’s not exactly spacious, and there are no internal pockets, but they provide a hanging pouch. Seriously though, the self-inflating mattress (£95 extra) is a *must*. The anti-condensation roof liner is also worth considering.
My Dorset and Devon Adventures (and What I Learned)
I put the TentBox Go through its paces in Dorset and Devon, trying out both proper campsites and a few more "discreet" spots. While its size and weight rule out true wilderness camping, it's ideal for quick getaways and overnight adventures.
Setup/Take Down: Lightning fast. Weather Resistance: Fantastic waterproofing. Condensation can be a bit of a problem with the single-skin design if you don’t leave the vents open, but the optional roof liner helps tremendously. Wind Resistance: It’s pretty sturdy, but high winds are a concern. Parking in a sheltered spot is key. Views: Being up high is amazing! The views are incredible.
The Verdict: Would I Recommend It?
The TentBox Go is a total game-changer for solo adventurers, couples, or anyone who loves spontaneous escapes. It’s ridiculously quick to set up, reliably waterproof, and built to last. Yes, space is limited, and it's not exactly ideal for lounging around in the rain, but its ease of use and portability make it a winner. It’s all about prioritizing adventure over fussy tent setups.
