sjm
Forum Member
Rays had a sale over the weekend, and I picked up one of these tents for just over $50. Normally, I make do with a tarp and poles for short stops, but I figured for the price, I'd give it a go.
This awning is designed for short stops, not long term use. It's probably okay for an overnighter in a caravan park or something similar. It comes with suction cups for fixing to the roof, but I just tied it to the roof rails. It's not quick to erect, and I wouldn't be keen on doing it in the rain, but once it's up, it certainly provides more shelter than a tarp.
The height is perfect for the MY11 Forester, the hatch just scrapes the roof when fully opened, but the walls are too long (it's designed for a bigger 4WD), and they don't fit snuggly against the side of the vehicle, they need to be pegged out a bit to make it taut. This means wind can get in the gap. I can easily stand up inside, and there's plenty of room for a couple of chairs and a table.
The three side walls all open independently of each other, so there should be no problem with the direction of rain.
Personally, I don't see it being of much use - the time it takes to erect is similar to a larger, full size tent, and if I was staying somewhere for long, I'd pitch a proper tent. For short breaks in the rain, or if I need some shade, a tarp will suffice. I think it would be much more suitable if it was somehow mounted onto the roof rails or basket, then just popped out. But hey, for $50, it's okay.
This awning is designed for short stops, not long term use. It's probably okay for an overnighter in a caravan park or something similar. It comes with suction cups for fixing to the roof, but I just tied it to the roof rails. It's not quick to erect, and I wouldn't be keen on doing it in the rain, but once it's up, it certainly provides more shelter than a tarp.
The height is perfect for the MY11 Forester, the hatch just scrapes the roof when fully opened, but the walls are too long (it's designed for a bigger 4WD), and they don't fit snuggly against the side of the vehicle, they need to be pegged out a bit to make it taut. This means wind can get in the gap. I can easily stand up inside, and there's plenty of room for a couple of chairs and a table.
The three side walls all open independently of each other, so there should be no problem with the direction of rain.
Personally, I don't see it being of much use - the time it takes to erect is similar to a larger, full size tent, and if I was staying somewhere for long, I'd pitch a proper tent. For short breaks in the rain, or if I need some shade, a tarp will suffice. I think it would be much more suitable if it was somehow mounted onto the roof rails or basket, then just popped out. But hey, for $50, it's okay.
