Tent Cot

[offroad_nomad]

I purchased my Tent Cot a couple of years ago and it has been a great addition to my camping/expedition gear. I got the oversized version for the added room to keep some gear inside with me. It's a breeze to set up. I haven't timed myself, but it only take a few minutes.

For a little added comfort, I purchased some 3" thick foam from a local fabric shop. It also provides a nice thermal barrier during cold nights.

Tent Cot by Kamp Rite (http://www.kamprite.com/index.htm)

http://www.kamprite.com/images/tent_cot_examples1.jpg

[Scott Brady]

Ian,

Great post. I really like the tent cot concept.

For the last several years I have slept on a cot, on a tarp next to my truck. No tent over me, but that is kind of how I prefer it (we have good weather here in CA, AZ, UT and MEX).

I see several nice benefits to the solo traveler in using the tent cot. Like you said, it is easy to set-up, it gets you off of the ground, and it provides good shelter.

For a few trips I used a similar product (but not as high quality). I did not receive "Scotty" certification. I broke it the second night, tearing through the floor and ending up as a heap on the ground :)

This was my "tent cot" (http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2004/Sand_tanks_2004/SandTankMountainsExplorato/DSCF1185.html) at a remote desert camp in the Sand Tank mountains.

[Scott Brady]

Oh, and if you have time, maybe start a thread about your 4Runner. It looks to be a very clean vehicle. I am also interested in the Wreck Dive reference :exclaim:

If you need hosting space for pictures, just let me know.

[offroad_nomad]

There was a nice write-up about the Tent Cot on Expedition Exchange, however I can't seem to find it anymore.

[offroad_nomad]

Thanks for the compliments regarding my 4R. I'm trying to find a nice compromise between a street vehicle/weekend driver and something that I can use to get out and explore.

I have one big limiting factor regarding mods to it. It's kept in the garage when not in use since my wife needs access to her car, which is parked in the driveway, to go to work, errands, etc. Our garage is just a little over 7 feet tall. So I had to consider the type of lift, tire size, roof rack size, and lights to make sure I could still fit into the garage.

"WREK DIV"
Basically, I love scuba diving. I have progressed from open water to advanced, master, then rescue diver, cavern diving (still thinking about getting my cave diver cert) and last but not least wreck diving.

He I am following a dive in the Cooper River in Charleston, SC diving for shark tooth fossils:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v516/DC_Magoo/GoodDive.jpg


Oh, and if you have time, maybe start a thread about your 4Runner. It looks to be a very clean vehicle. I am also interested in the Wreck Dive reference :exclaim:

If you need hosting space for pictures, just let me know.

[Scott Brady]

Excellent about the diving. I am a freediver/spearfisherman... Baja and Florida are my hunting grounds.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2004/florida/FloridaSpearfishing/images/DSC01920.jpg

[Life_in_4Lo]

that's so cool, the tentcots are domed now!
I have the oversize and like it alot- it would be really perfect if I had the domed one! :(

oh well, still like it anyway!

[pskhaat]

Anyone tried to modify a Tent-cot to go atop a roof rack? Seems like they'd fit/mount pretty well after you figure out how to get up there.

[Life_in_4Lo]

It would be very easy w/ a good roofrack
http://www.expeditionexchange.com/deathvalley/PB280187.JPG

[calamaridog]

It would be very easy w/ a good roofrack
http://www.expeditionexchange.com/deathvalley/PB280187.JPG


Why sleep up there and not the ground? :confused:

[gjackson]

With lions and hyenas running around I rather sleep up there. But that's on a different continent. I think the ground is great, but my travelling partner prefers to stay away from the ground crawling bugs! ;)

cheers

[jeffryscott]

It would be very easy w/ a good roofrack
http://www.expeditionexchange.com/deathvalley/PB280187.JPG

Two tent cot questions, does anybody in or around Tucson have one I could take a look at sometime?

And two, could someone give me a description or a series of step by step photos of how it folds/unfolds.

I'm very curious about adapting one as a rooftop tent - on my Suzuki a 100+-pound rooftop tent wouldn't be a good option.

Thanks,

Jeff

[Sharkman]

Jeff,

I don't have any photos put here is a link to the setup instructions that come with the TC: http://www.tentcot.com/documents/Setup_Instructions.pdf

We use the double version on top of our LR D2 and it works out quite well.
http://gllrc.fotki.com/drummond_2005/1161674_img_medium.html
http://gllrc.fotki.com/drummond_2005/1161677_img_medium.html

It is certainly not the luxury of a proper roof tent but it does have a few advantages. Light wieght, can be used on the ground if it is windy, can easily be stored in the garage when not in use, etc.

Good luck,

Steve

www.gllrc.com

[erin]

:coffee:
Jeffery, Sportsman Warehouse stocks these, so you could look at them there. The only problem is they can't get them in fast enough to satisfy demand, so you have to keep calling to see if they have any on premises. I have been trying for about a month and keep missing them for a purchase.

Good luck.

[datrupr]

I saw the tent cot at Costco about a month ago. I am sure they are all gone now.:(

[kcowyo]

Jeff, have you looked at the Oasis II Rooftop Tent from Rogue River Trading?

http://www.4x4wire.com/news/oasisII04/tjpr2.jpg


It only weighs 40lbs, can be set up top or on the ground and has a very low profile for travelling or getting it in the garage. I looked at these and received a brochure from the manufacturer. They are actually more like a hammock with a tent over it, but supposed to be very comfortable. I think sizewise it would compliment the 'Zuk very well.

Here's a link with all of the Oasis II specs, a FAQ section and rooftop tent comparison with the Hannibal and Autohome (http://www.everythingsuv.com/oasis_tents_main-esuv.asp)

I'd really like to hear a review of the Oasis II, if anyone has first hand experience....?

[Scott Brady]

Great idea KC.

[jeffryscott]

I've been looking at those too, just thought I'd try to look at the Tent Cot first (price point a bit better) and see if it was even a possibility (also, someone local is more likely to have one). I think the Oasis would be ideal for my vehicle - any of the other roof-top tents would simply be too heavy. I'd love to get a sample for review ...



Jeff, have you looked at the Oasis II Rooftop Tent from Rogue River Trading?

http://www.4x4wire.com/news/oasisII04/tjpr2.jpg


It only weighs 40lbs, can be set up top or on the ground and has a very low profile for travelling or getting it in the garage. I looked at these and received a brochure from the manufacturer. They are actually more like a hammock with a tent over it, but supposed to be very comfortable. I think sizewise it would compliment the 'Zuk very well.

Here's a link with all of the Oasis II specs, a FAQ section and rooftop tent comparison with the Hannibal and Autohome (http://www.everythingsuv.com/oasis_tents_main-esuv.asp)

I'd really like to hear a review of the Oasis II, if anyone has first hand experience....?

[CLynn85]

I like the oasis simply for the weight. My Jeep's top heavy enough, and will soon be adding a rack to carry more gear on the roof, adding a 100+lb tent to the mis would probably scare the crap out of me.

In the meantime I'm planning on ordering a tentcot double for the summer. Quick and easy setup, sleeping for two, and an elevated platform sound good to me.

[atavuss]

what is everyone finding for prices on the double and oversized tent cots? I have been tossing around the idea of a RTT for my 1/4 ton post WWll Bantam trailer but a couple of tent cots would be less money.......money that could go for vehicle mods instead.

[Mike S]

[QUOTE=kcowyo]Jeff, have you looked at the Oasis II Rooftop Tent from Rogue River Trading?

Here's a link with all of the Oasis II specs, a FAQ section and rooftop tent comparison with the Hannibal and Autohome (http://www.everythingsuv.com/oasis_tents_main-esuv.asp)
QUOTE]

The Oasis tent is very different than any tent manufactured by AutoHome. But after reading their 'comparison' I would like to clarify the actual facts about AutoHome Columbus Tent (size medium) presented at the above url.

1. Our medium Columbus tent is $1949 in fiberglass, not $1649. We also offer the tent in Carbon Fiber at $3,499

2. Medium Columbus is 83"L X 57"W X 59"T when open. When closed, it is 11" tall.

3. Exterior shell is re-inforced fiberglass (108 lbs. total), or optional Carbon Fiber (81 lbs. total).

4. A reflective Winter Hood IS available for all of our models.

5. The tent takes about 10 minutes to remove, but, unlike others tents, is designed to be left on the vehicle permanently if the owner so chooses.

6. Optional legs ARE available to convert the tent for ground use. Nobody asks for them, however.

7. Our tents are easily stored by simple leaning against the wall of your garage, or against the ceiling using a ceiling lift.

7. We warrant our tents for 5 years against manufacturing or materials defects - basically anything except abuse or impacts.

Any of the above facts can be found on the AutoHomeUSA website. We (AutoHomeUSA) are probably the largest supplier of roof top tents in North America, and we view competition as a good thing. We wish the Oasis tent manufacturer good luck, especially since they are targeting a different audience. Just wanted to set the record straight.

Mike S
http://www.autohomeus.com

[Life_in_4Lo]

you can look at tentcot.com for prices. Double tentcots have a bar dividing the floorspace- it's ok but not ideal if you want to spread out.

I don't like the Oasis b/c the floor is not flat. It is angled and would not be comfortable at all for me. But i've looked at that Oasis for a long time and the price/weight makes it attractive.

Having seen the Columbus/Maggiola in action offroad, I dont see the weight as a issue that I once did. It doesn't affect wheeling capability for expeditionary work, and even Mudrak had it thru the Rubicon so the only real drawback is storage/removal (but that is a kind of a big one).

[kcowyo]

....Any of the above facts can be found on the AutoHomeUSA website. We (AutoHomeUSA) are probably the largest supplier of roof top tents in North America, and we view competition as a good thing. We wish the Oasis tent manufacturer good luck, especially since they are targeting a different audience. Just wanted to set the record straight.

Mike S
http://www.autohomeus.com

Good info Mike. Thanks for getting the facts right. I do think comparing the Oasis model and Autohome model is not exactly comparing apples to apples. Like comparing a Tacoma to a Landcruiser - two different animals but from the same gene pool.

After seeing a couple of forum members Maggiolinas in action and pics of Mudrak taking his over the Rubicon, it's hard to imagine there is a more unique, reliable and durable roof top tent available for off road excursions.

[jeffryscott]

you can look at tentcot.com for prices. Double tentcots have a bar dividing the floorspace- it's ok but not ideal if you want to spread out.

I don't like the Oasis b/c the floor is not flat. It is angled and would not be comfortable at all for me. But i've looked at that Oasis for a long time and the price/weight makes it attractive.

Having seen the Columbus/Maggiola in action offroad, I dont see the weight as a issue that I once did. It doesn't affect wheeling capability for expeditionary work, and even Mudrak had it thru the Rubicon so the only real drawback is storage/removal (but that is a kind of a big one).

Weight for the bigger vehicles wouldn't be an issue, but I'm driving a Suzuki Vitara so the difference of 100-pounds is huge - a big advantage of the Oasis. I imagine it would be similar to a cot as far as comfort, but until I see one, have no way of really knowing. I think the Maggiola would be perfect in so many ways - I really liked the ones I saw at the rally last year - but I'd be concerned about weight on my vehicle (when factored in with all the other stuff you have to carry).

Jeff

[Mike S]

Jeff - just an FYI...

Thule's fitment guide shows the Suzuki Vitara 4 dr with factory rack rated at 110 lbs dynamic (moving) with a factory rack system and Thule 50" Cross bars. Our small Columbus tent weighs in at 95 lbs. in the standard fiberglass model. I am certain that this would be a safe and sane combination, but you are the best judge of how you drive.

For a soft top vehicle, you would have to buy a Garvin system or fab a solution - which you would have to do in any case to put ANY tent on the roof.

Good luck with your project. Perhaps we will meet one of these days out on a trail...

Mike S

[Grouseman]

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1702&stc=1&d=1144895156

Guys check this tent set-up over a trailer.
Thoughts.

[Mike S]

Steve

It looks roomy. But I would be sure to camp in areas of little or no wind. It could sail on you. Is this a homemade job, or from a manufacturer?

Mike

[Grouseman]

Mike,

From a company that went out of business. The nice thing about it, it has a place to stand up and change clothes and you go to bed about the same height as a regular bed. That is nice for old folks.:ylsmoke: I would not look forward to getting down on the ground or climbing a ladder to get into a tent.
But that is just me.


SS

[Scott Brady]

That is a VenturCraft trailer, now out of business. I used that trailer for nearly 8 years. No problems in wind, unless it was shifting. You just put the changing room leeward.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2003/El_Golfo_2003/35mm/images/camp1_jpg.jpg

Here is some more info: Sportsman Trailer (http://www.expeditionswest.com/vehicles/ewvehicles/VenturCraft/index.html)

VIDEO of the Trailer in action behind my Discovery II (http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2003/florence_Nov_2003/martinez_rover.wmv)

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2003/florence_Nov_2003/images/11-02-03%20001_jpg.jpg

[jeffryscott]

Jeff - just an FYI...

Thule's fitment guide shows the Suzuki Vitara 4 dr with factory rack rated at 110 lbs dynamic (moving) with a factory rack system and Thule 50" Cross bars. Our small Columbus tent weighs in at 95 lbs. in the standard fiberglass model. I am certain that this would be a safe and sane combination, but you are the best judge of how you drive.

For a soft top vehicle, you would have to buy a Garvin system or fab a solution - which you would have to do in any case to put ANY tent on the roof.

Good luck with your project. Perhaps we will meet one of these days out on a trail...

Mike S

Thanks for the info Mike. I had looked at the Columbus and Overland a while back and had forgotten about them. I'm still toying with ideas and looking at options. Cost is certainly a factor and I'm in no rush as there are many other things to do first. Thanks again, jeff

[atavuss]

I see the Venturecraft trailers once in a while on Ebay, there was recently one that sold for a little over 1k in Colorado on Ebay. my concern would be the fiberglass body/fenders getting banged up in the rocky 4x4 roads we have in the Sierras.
Scott, how many off road trailers do you own now? I have seen your tests on:
Jumping Jack
Venturecraft
Chaser
Grouseman,
did you find a CDN M101 yet, or still undecided what you want to get?

[Grouseman]

[QUOTE=expeditionswest]That is a VenturCraft trailer, now out of business. I used that trailer for nearly 8 years. No problems in wind, unless it was shifting. You just put the changing room leeward.

Scott,

Yea and you sold it before I could buy it.:ar15: Anybody got any ideas of a tent mfg. that would make that same tent for my 101 trailer? The problem is I don't have one for a pattern for the tent makers. Lots of companies say yes but they want a pattern. I have some leads, but nothing definate yet.

SS

[Grouseman]

ATAVUSS,
Grouseman,
did you find a CDN M101 yet, or still undecided what you want to get?[/QUOTE]

Yes I bought one, should be in TODAY, a great condition 101CDN from a fellow MUD member. Yea I don't want any fiberglass trailer either, but I want to put that tent-setup on my 101. That would be the stuff.:jumping:

SS

[atavuss]

Grouseman,
check out this link, scroll to the bottom of the site page, they show a picture of a tent on a trailer. looks like it might be a pop up canvas or something. there is no dressing area like the Venturcraft though. someone on the MUD forum has a trailer built by this outfit, I think he may have joined this forum too.
http://www.4x4fab.homestead.com/trailers.html
are you planning on fabbing a tailgate into your trailer? are you going to fab a top? any other planned modifications? show us pics when you get the trailer.

[Grouseman]

ATA,

Yes I will cut out a tailgate for sure. Easy access for stuff in trailer. Probably put a metal or aluminum lid on it like Mike S trailer. Then I will put a tent on like the Venturecraft had, so that I will have at least a Queen Size mattress, and an area for standing up, dressing, etc. Several other mods as well. Of course it will take time, but I have done alot of research and have a lot of pictures, etc of other trailers.

SS

[jeffryscott]

Jeff,

I don't have any photos put here is a link to the setup instructions that come with the TC: http://www.tentcot.com/documents/Setup_Instructions.pdf

We use the double version on top of our LR D2 and it works out quite well.
http://gllrc.fotki.com/drummond_2005/1161674_img_medium.html
http://gllrc.fotki.com/drummond_2005/1161677_img_medium.html

It is certainly not the luxury of a proper roof tent but it does have a few advantages. Light wieght, can be used on the ground if it is windy, can easily be stored in the garage when not in use, etc.

Good luck,

Steve

www.gllrc.com

Hey Steve, thanks for the pics and info. Just a quick question, when on your roof, can you keep the legs battened down on the roof rack, then just unfold the top portion to have your tent? Or do you need to store it properly, then set it up as per the instructions?

What I was hoping if I went this route, is to keep it securely attached and be able to unfold it - thus, having a tent on the roof. Simple, inexpensive and secure.

Thanks,

Jeff

[Sharkman]

Jeff,

I don't have it setup that way, but I think it could be done. If you removed the legs and mounted it to the rack using the holes where the legs where mounted. The biggest issue would be covering it when not in use. I have considered having a waterproof cover made for this purpuse.

Let me know if you have more questions,

Steve

[Scott Brady]

Steve,

That tent looks very functional. How is the overall comfort of the model? Have you experienced much rain with it?

Oh, and cool Disco :archaeolo

[Sharkman]

Hey Scott,

The tent cot works out pretty well. We often take our kids along when we off road so we end up putting them in the tent cot while my wife and I sleep on the ground in a tent. When we go without kids we use just the tent cot and it really is quite comfortable. I originally planned to purchase a proper roof tent but I keep talking myself out of it because of…weight, hassle of taking it on/off, losing roof rack space. We haven’t used it in the rain yet and I am concerned that its design may not work well in a heavy downpour. We have an awning that fits on the rack of the truck so I can move the tent cot to the ground, under the awing if needed. The new Tent cot design looks like it may work better in the rain.

My compliments on the website! We are quite active in the LR community and help run a very active Michigan club. I think you have really tapped into something that is missing from many of the brand specific clubs/sites…keep up the good work!

Steve

www.gllrc.com

[jeffryscott]

Steve, thanks for the info on your experience with the tent cot.

Jeff

[Sharkman]

Steve, thanks for the info on your experience with the tent cot.

Jeff


Jeff, No problem. Let me know how it works out.

Steve

www.gllrc.com