Amanda Travis gives her top 10 reasons for buying a roof tent – and in particular, a hardshell roof tent like the Alpkit Nest that she’s been testing over the last few months…
My partner (T&M Editor) Chris and I have been on numerous camping trips together over the years, be it hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, spending a month trekking in Nepal, or sleeping at nearly 4000m on a glacier in minus 250C temperatures – but as much as I enjoy waking up in some remote mountain location, I’m also a firm believer that you don’t need to ‘rough’ it for the sake of it. One thing we’ve come to realise is that there’s no one perfect way to travel, but a roof tent like the Alpkit Nest could be ideal for those looking to find a balance between sleeping in natural places while also maintaining a bit of comfort.
1. Quick to set up (and pack down)
Just unclip the buckles and the hydraulic struts do the rest
Set-up is ridiculously quick
2. More comfortable
With a thick mattress in situ, and an insulated roof, the Nest is far comfier and warmer than a ground tent
3. Leave your bedding in the Nest
No need to keep moving sleeping bags, blankets or pillows in and out of your car, just leave them where they are
Warmer and more comfortable than a ground tent
4. Wet weather not such a problem
It’s easier to stay dry with a roof tent, plus you’ll avoid having to pack up, pitch or carry a wet flysheet in your car
5. Cheaper than a campervan
The cost of a Nest is a fraction that of a decent campervan, yet you get the most important benefits of owning a campervan: convenience and comfort
Go places that a big and bulky campervan or mobile home may not be able to go
6. New vehicle, no problem
As and when you change/update your car, you can just swap your rooftent over
If you change your vehivle, you needn’t ditch your roof tent
7. Off the ground
There’s something about being off the ground that feels safer and, when it comes to ticks and other beasties, you most definitely are!
8. Camp anywhere
From fully-serviced campsites to the middle of nowhere, the Nest allows you to camp in almost any place
Being off the ground has its advantages
9. Go anywhere
Unlike a campervan or motorhome, you can go wherever your car will take you, including narrow lanes (think of parts of the NC500!) or even off-road if you have a 4×4
Wake up to a great view every morning
10. The views!
There’s nothing like waking up somewhere beautiful, unzipping the Nest’s flaps and enjoying stunning views over a cup of coffee.
More info on the Alpkit Nest at: www.alpkit.com