*THE RTT Owners Thread (With BS)*

9 footer should do it. I'll get one out and check later. You'll have to cut the strap (or use two) to,attach to either side of the base. Or I bet the loop straps might work: http://www.nrs.com/product/1444/nrs-1-loop-straps
I'll check that when I'm home too.

 

Who's using the Tepui Weatherhood and how you liking it?

Camping in the Sierra's over the New Year weekend and was entertaining the idea of picking one up.

 

So after 521 pages and almost two years, it seems kind of pointless to ask if an RTT is really worth it. So instead, since I am starting to budget for one (probably this spring), I do have a few questions. I am sure after 521 pages most (if not all of these) have already been answered.

What is the most common mistake of new RTT owners?

What is the best (or most common) first mod that should be done?

Tears seem very rare, but in the event that one happens, how easily can an RTT be repaired?

How hard is it to keep the inside clean?

What's the one thing you would have done differently if you had to do your first purchase again?

Thanks for any insights.

 

I'm pretty new to the RTT world myself but if I could give any advise it would be just ask question before you buy. Not plugging them or anything but if you make a call to CVT I know they would answer any questions you have. I asked a lot, but I'm local to them also.
Also make sure to budget for the one that you want. I went with one model down to save a few bucks. Now I kinda wish I would have went with one level up. But for the investment your going to make get the one that fits your needs.
Keeping it clean has been easy for me. I just open it up between camp trips and clean the inside. Also just airing them out helps a lot. Especially if you camp when it's wet.
Like I said I'm fairly new but that's my two cents.

 

There's a lot to consider when thinking about RTT's. It starts with choosing the 'right' RTT and all the decisions which go into that. But also give consideration to how you are going to transport the RTT and how it's going to attach to your rig. Are you going to want to remove and store the RTT when you are not using it? Plan accordingly. Is an RTT worth it? For some it is and others it isn't...

 

My RTT was bought in 2005 from Camping Lab and has only had one tear. I used some nice strong thread and sewed it back myself. I have never had one problem with my RTT since I have owned it. Everything people do to their tents after they get them is just for convenience. You can use an RTT for year and years right out of the box with no modifications. Find out what will make you more comfortable and start from there.

 

Off the top of my head, I'd say the first mod should be replacing the Velcro 'cinch' straps that keep the clamshell closed, as well as the Velcro cover straps. I'd use cam straps, personally.

 

I replaced mine with ratchet straps. Cam straps would probably work well, but I really like being able to really cinch it down TIGHT even when I have my monstrous sleeping bag and pillows up there. I used to struggle a little with getting the cover one when I left my big bag and stuff up there, but now it's no more difficult than closing it with nothing inside.


The one thing I wish I would have done when I bought my tent years ago would be to have gotten a bigger tent. I use the Mt. Cayley (I think they call it the Bachelor Extended now?) and it's just a little too small for my wife and our two dogs. With the dogs sleeping at our feet (it's 8' long) we fit pretty well. However, it's a pain to get the dogs to move out of the way so we can get in/out in the night. Would be MUCH better if they could sleep along the sides of the tent. With our 48" wide tent, that's just not an option.

Also, if I had a bigger tent I could offer a buddy a place to sleep. I'm pretty damn comfortable with my sexuality, but two 6' 200lb dudes in a 48" wide tent would be pretty awkward, I think.

 

Damn!!! Just spotted this thread... and I have 3 RTT's, 2 on trailers!

 

You are ridiculous john

 

Baller!!!

 

Agreed on being worth it or not..I thought mostly about the longevity of it. Even if a year here and there it gets little use, over the long haulit's an awesome purchase. Especially planning a week vacation based on using the RTT. I get a lot of vacation which isn't the case for everyone, so it helped justify the purchase.now it's scheduled atleast a week RTT trip. The tent pricing will justify itself considering I don't bat an eye when I get hotels for a couple days here and there, and it adds up to an RTT probably every year

 

I like my cam straps because they are so damn strong for such a low profile. But ratchet straps are great too. Anything but the ridiculous Velcro straps!

 

What sleeping bag you rockin? I have been an avid backpacker for years so size and weight was a big concern (I spend a grand on two bags)..yikes. Now with the RTT I'm looking at Teton Double sleeping bags and monsterous single XXL bags to enjoy the arm and leg room missing in mummy bags. And they are like $80 which is awesome! But I haven seen much talk of people's bags..I camp year around..curious of peoples bags..not so much temp ratings but if the double is too much..

 

I'm a little curious about sleeping bags too. We haven't done much cold weather camping in the past but I'd like to give it a shot. What are you guys using for the winter that fits 2? Budget friendly options appreciated

 

Check out slumberjack outdoor gear. Great products!

 

I was looking at bags like this..
http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/...ular-Sleeping-Bags/prod999901365574/cat100842


$129. Big Agnes makes a real nice bag but it's stupid warm..too warm me. I'm a 454 big block running hot when I sleep tho.

 

I could only find 0 degree bags..was looking for anything 15-30..

 

Shoot them an email. I believe they have access to more then they have listed.

 

Thanks for everyone's input! It has been very helpful so far