The Manufacturers website lists the fabric as ‘very breathable’, so it can be put away wet then aired out later. That feature is a big plus to me since it’s always a little damp up here in the northwest.
Sleeping in the tent brings back childhood memories of building tree forts (if you were into that sort of thing). It’s a cool/safe feeling being up off of the ground and not having to worry about rain puddles or mud entering your tent. I’ve been camping my entire life, and I love that this tent stays much cleaner than tents on the ground. It would be very hard to go back to a ground style tent after spending time high and dry.
The Maggiolina AirLand model I own has an insulated ceiling and a nice thick mattress, which keep it warm and cozy even on the coldest of nights. I spent a few nights in it up at Mt. Rainier National Park last summer, the temperature dropped to near freezing. Luckily the design of this tent helps hold in the heat, so I wasn’t cold at all. It was a little chilly outside the down comforter, but I slept like a baby under the comforter with flannel sheets. It was just like sleeping at home.
I can’t think of any negative issues at all with this tent. I do wish I had more vacation time so I could be out enjoying it even more. I look forward to many years of use I plan to get out of the AirLand, and can’t wait for the 2009 camping season to arrive.
Corey Tando is the admin/co-founder of the popular Toyota truck/SUV forum YotaTech.com. He's an avid outdoorsman / overlander, and FJ Cruiser owner.
Corey can be reached at www.yotatech.com or via email at
{tab=Photos}
{gallery}issues/2009/apr09/rooftoptent/{/gallery}
{/tabs}