SBSYNCRO
Well-known member
After a lot of research I've decided to pull the trigger on a Rhino Backbone system for the Jeep. I will start out with a pair of Vortex bars - since I have a Sunrider top, I can't use the full sized Pioneer platform, and honestly I'm not sure I'll ever really need a $1,000 platform when I already have a Yakima basket that will probably work fine if I need it. I will also don't think I'll ever go the route of a RTT (mostly because I don't want to drive around all the time with a 140 to 200 lb box on top of my Jeep)
What I AM interested in, however, is a combination of awning and ground tent that will be versatile and give me a comfortable yet modular setup for solo or 2 person trips.
Here's my typical setup now for a solo trip:
Next on my list are the Rhino system, Awning, and more spacious/durable ground tent.
(Then I will add 12v fridge + solar+aux battery.)
I camp outdoors all 4 seasons - I just came back from a trip where my son and I spent 4 days and 3 nights in 25º to 40º weather with rain, sleet, hail, and a bit of sunshine. Other times we'll camp in blazing sun and 90 degree days. An awning seems like a no-brainer for both scenarios.
I'm enamored with the idea of a 270º awning on the driver's side and an "Oztent" type tent either opening into the driver's side awning or on the opposite side of the Jeep while camped (to create a wind break with the sloped side of the tent).
However, as I look at the Oztent RV-2 it looks like that sucker is bulky when packed and I'm already struggling with weight/space constraints with the Jeep (and these 250 lb bumpers don't help!). After a lifetime on my knees in small dome tents, I'm thinking about tents with a bit more head room and possibly even room for a cot and more creature comforts. I stumbled across these, but can't find much information on them at all:
They seem lighter and a bit less bulky than the Oztent (and about 1/2 the price, which probably means they aren't built to the same standard)
Would really appreciate feedback from anyone running either a setup like the one I'm contemplating, or something they think is even better, and why.
What I AM interested in, however, is a combination of awning and ground tent that will be versatile and give me a comfortable yet modular setup for solo or 2 person trips.
Here's my typical setup now for a solo trip:
Next on my list are the Rhino system, Awning, and more spacious/durable ground tent.
(Then I will add 12v fridge + solar+aux battery.)
I camp outdoors all 4 seasons - I just came back from a trip where my son and I spent 4 days and 3 nights in 25º to 40º weather with rain, sleet, hail, and a bit of sunshine. Other times we'll camp in blazing sun and 90 degree days. An awning seems like a no-brainer for both scenarios.
I'm enamored with the idea of a 270º awning on the driver's side and an "Oztent" type tent either opening into the driver's side awning or on the opposite side of the Jeep while camped (to create a wind break with the sloped side of the tent).
However, as I look at the Oztent RV-2 it looks like that sucker is bulky when packed and I'm already struggling with weight/space constraints with the Jeep (and these 250 lb bumpers don't help!). After a lifetime on my knees in small dome tents, I'm thinking about tents with a bit more head room and possibly even room for a cot and more creature comforts. I stumbled across these, but can't find much information on them at all:
Panamint 2000 (3-4 Person) Ground Tent - Overland Pros
Panamint 2000 (3-4 Person) - Ground Tent - by Overland Pros. Waterproof, Set Up In Just 30 Seconds - Good For Summer & Winter. Free Shipping Included!
offroadtents.com
They seem lighter and a bit less bulky than the Oztent (and about 1/2 the price, which probably means they aren't built to the same standard)
Would really appreciate feedback from anyone running either a setup like the one I'm contemplating, or something they think is even better, and why.