One of my favorite pearls of earned wisdom is that space and light are the ultimate living luxury when overlanding. It was that belief that led me to convert my Land Rover into a camper with five large windows after living with my family in a rooftop tent for nearly five years. That conversion cost, in total, is well over $ 20,000, and while I am quite satisfied with the camper, every now and then, a product comes along that makes me wonder what could have been had these products been available a few years ago. One example of this is the Harker camper, and another is a massive inflatable tent that we came across at Overland Expo PNW. The GT Sky Loft offers space and privacy for a family or people who, for whatever reason, like a tent home that can float.
In a nutshell, the GT Sky Loft is claimed to be the largest rooftop tent available. It offers a lying surface of 73 square feet (133 x 78 inches), weighs just 109 pounds (49 kilograms), and has a base made of TPU, PES and PVC tarpaulin, the same material used for stand-up paddle boards. Additionally, it includes an outer cover for enhanced protection against heat and weather.
The GT Sky Loft by GentleTent is a versatile and innovative rooftop tent designed to enhance the camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts and stands out due to its inflatable structure, which is a departure from traditional hard-shell or fabric-based rooftop tents (Dometic offers an inflatable tent, but it is much smaller). This design choice significantly reduces the tent’s weight and makes it easier to deploy and pack away. The inflatable frame is made from durable, high-quality materials that ensure stability and resilience in various weather conditions. Despite its lightweight nature, the GT Sky Loft provides a sturdy and secure shelter, capable of withstanding strong winds and rain.
Setting up the GT Sky Loft is a straightforward process, and the three main sections of the tent must be inflated separately. The tent can be inflated using an electric or manual pump, both of which are included with the purchase. The inflation process takes only a few minutes, and the tent quickly takes shape, ready to provide a comfortable sleeping area with a solid base. Essentially, setting up the tent takes about as long as it takes to set up a traditional, folding rooftop tent, with the advantage of offering a lot more living space.
The interior of the GT Sky Loft is spacious and well-designed, offering enough room to comfortably sleep five or even six adults. The tent includes a high-density foam mattress, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The interior height is generous, providing ample headroom and a sense of openness that is often lacking in traditional rooftop tents. The large windows and skylight enhance the feeling of space and allow for excellent ventilation and panoramic views. These features also contribute to a connection with the outdoors, letting in natural light and fresh air.
Access to the GT Sky Loft is made easy with a sturdy aluminum ladder that attaches securely to either side of the vehicle, allowing for independent access. Once inside, the tent’s layout is user-friendly, with storage pockets and organizers to keep personal items within reach and the sleeping area tidy.
Another of the GT Sky Loft’s standout features is its durability. The inflatable frame is constructed from a robust, high-strength polyester fabric that is both waterproof and UV-resistant. This ensures that the tent can endure the elements and provide reliable protection in various climates. Additionally, the tent’s seams are heat-welded, adding an extra layer of durability and waterproofing. The zippers and other hardware are designed to withstand frequent use and harsh conditions, contributing to the overall longevity of the tent.
One of the significant benefits of the GT Sky Loft is its portability and compact storage. When deflated, the tent packs down into a manageable size, making it easy to transport and store. This is particularly advantageous for those with limited storage space or who need to maximize the utility of their vehicle for other gear and equipment. The compact nature of the GT Sky Loft also means that it can be fitted to a wide range of vehicles, from small SUVs to larger trucks, without adding significant weight or bulk.
Regarding versatility, the GT Sky Loft can be used for various camping styles and environments, from weekend getaways to extended overland trips. Its quick setup and takedown make it suitable for those who move frequently from one campsite to another, while its comfortable interior and robust construction are ideal for longer stays in one location. The tent’s adaptability extends to different seasons, with the ability to provide a comfortable shelter in both warm and cold conditions.
Not only is the tent itself spacious but there is also an annex available that can be attached to one side of the tent for even more living space. What more could a family want?
The GT Sky Loft is priced at $5,498 and includes the loft itself, an outer cover, a room divider, a mounting set, a telescopic ladder, a GT SUP electric pump (12-volt), guy wires, tent pegs, a repair set, and a GT double action hand pump. The GT Sky Loft Awning is available for $795 and comes with the awning and telescopic poles.
While a telescopic ladder is included with the GT Sky Loft, a second ladder can be purchased for dual-side access.
From $5,000 | gentletentnorthamerica.com
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