RTT Questions

Greetings all,

New member here posting (yet another!) RTT question. Here we go...

I'm looking at a few RTT models at similar price ranges and am hoping to get some feedback from this group. Here are the models I'm kicking around:

Roam Vagabond

Thule Kukenam 3

OVS Nomadic 4

Anyone out there have experience or pros/cons with these models they'd be willing to share? Thanks in advance...

NHtroutster

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome!

 

I'm a big fan of my 23ZERO Walkabout 62". It is the biggest tent I could fit and not exceed the length of a DCSB. 23ZERO also has a lot of "goodies" you can attach on as well, bought separately of course. I bought mine used with annex for $1300. The Light Suppression Technology in the 23ZERO tents is pretty awesome - if I don't set an alarm, I will "sleep-in" after sunrise. And the Rebound Mattress is firm enough for side sleepers. I know it's not one of the ones on your short list, but I love my 23ZERO.

 

My best suggestion is that you go to an Overland Expo or similar event so you can see and feel the tents first hand. Before I spent a couple of thousand on a RTT I decided to buy a Smittybilt RTT that was on sale (less than $800) and then upgrade to a more expensive tent if I thought I’d use one enough. I’ve now had the tent 3 years and don’t plan on replacing it anytime soon.

All of the soft shelled RTTs are very similar in construction except there are only a few blackout or 4 season tents. Look for a quilted or double layer exterior if that is important to you and you’ll need to look at other tents if that is the case.

The Nomadic 4 is considerably larger than the other two you have listed. Make sure it will fit your vehicle. Those tents with a large overhang for the tent entry, build up enough condensation that may start dripping into the tent if the door is opened, or drips on you as you enter and exit. The Kukenam does not have that problem.

Many people have added to or replaced the mattress that came with their tent, even the most expensive tents. I replaced mine with an Exped MegaMat Duo self-inflating Sleeping Pad. It takes an additional 5-10 minutes to deflate but has the advantage that I can store more stuff inside the folded tent. Condensation inside the tents seem to be an issue. I've kept my overhead or side windows slightly opened at nigh and have not that problem.

 

Thanks for the feedback dherring256... That unit was actually on my longer list, but has moved to my shortlist.

 

Awesome feedback as well ClintS! The Nomadic 4 was a mistake on my end--really meant the Nomadic 3. Your cost analogy is a good one and definitely gives me some pause on upfront costs. I'm a weekend warrior, mostly interested in supporting my trout fishing addiction--which is pretty much a 3 season venture only. The Kukenam seems to have the best consumer product ratings, but its also the most narrow at 56". I doubt I'll ever have more than 2 in that tent, but my son and I need the extra space. I think I've re-narrowed things down to the Nomadic 3 vs. the 23zero walkabout 62. Any other thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks a ton...