Very interesting read, John. I like the visuals of sleeping in the desert (I haven't done that in ages).
My only question would be the comparison between a car-mounted tent (not just the ones that sit on the roof, but the ones that extend to the side of the vehicle, providing an extra "lobby" to the sleeping quarters on the roof). As you explain, towing a trailer can stress the vehicle capabilities, while hauling a tent on the roof (and perhaps a portable Primus stove plus utensils in the back of the SUV or car trunk) may be all one needs to camp without the complications of towing a trailer.
Thanks for commenting, Carlos. Those tent systems you describe look really cool. I've seen some that are quite the setup and on very capable vehicles. As with most things, it boils down to preference and, of course, budget. And everything is a compromise, as you know. One thing I really like about the trailer option is I can set it up as a base camp and then leave it while exploring. With anything attached to the vehicle, it has to be broken down before traveling, even locally. But the real reason I went with the mini-camper trailer is that I always wanted to build one, and so I did. But each to their own - just get out there and enjoy, I say!
I think this is the first review of a vehicle I’ve read that recommends a yoga routine as a way to simplify operation. Whatever it takes John. You’re on a roll!
Fun question, Cliff. I think the greatest two are ease of use and quick setup. It's also quite comfortable, and that makes a big difference overall. But I absolutely love backpacking still. Being able to take everything one needs in a pack and head out in truly remote wilderness - priceless. Thanks for reading!
Very interesting read, John. I like the visuals of sleeping in the desert (I haven't done that in ages).
My only question would be the comparison between a car-mounted tent (not just the ones that sit on the roof, but the ones that extend to the side of the vehicle, providing an extra "lobby" to the sleeping quarters on the roof). As you explain, towing a trailer can stress the vehicle capabilities, while hauling a tent on the roof (and perhaps a portable Primus stove plus utensils in the back of the SUV or car trunk) may be all one needs to camp without the complications of towing a trailer.
Thanks for commenting, Carlos. Those tent systems you describe look really cool. I've seen some that are quite the setup and on very capable vehicles. As with most things, it boils down to preference and, of course, budget. And everything is a compromise, as you know. One thing I really like about the trailer option is I can set it up as a base camp and then leave it while exploring. With anything attached to the vehicle, it has to be broken down before traveling, even locally. But the real reason I went with the mini-camper trailer is that I always wanted to build one, and so I did. But each to their own - just get out there and enjoy, I say!
I think this is the first review of a vehicle I’ve read that recommends a yoga routine as a way to simplify operation. Whatever it takes John. You’re on a roll!
Ha! Thanks, Bill. And I agree - whatever it takes to keep rolling!
Nice pilot
It gets me there! Thanks for reading, Char.
What would you say are the biggest advantages over a tent and cookstove?
Fun question, Cliff. I think the greatest two are ease of use and quick setup. It's also quite comfortable, and that makes a big difference overall. But I absolutely love backpacking still. Being able to take everything one needs in a pack and head out in truly remote wilderness - priceless. Thanks for reading!