In the ever-evolving world of 4X4 touring setups, two items have recently taken the spotlight, revolutionizing how we experience the wild: 270° awnings and rooftop tents. These innovations aren’t just about shelter; they’re about enhancing the entire camping experience, offering convenience, comfort, and a touch of luxury in the rugged outdoors. As someone deeply entrenched in the 4X4 community, Pat’s seen firsthand the buzz these products generate on tracks and at shows. It’s time to dive into the details of what he’s currently running – a setup that marks a significant upgrade from last season’s gear.
The Bushwakka Extreme Darkness Awning: A 270° Revolution
The cornerstone of Pat’s current setup is the Bushwakka Extreme Darkness awning. This isn’t your average awning; it’s a 270° masterpiece that offers expansive coverage with an intuitive design. What sets it apart are the ratchet straps tie downs, a genius addition for ease of setup. Gone are the days of wrestling with complicated mechanisms. With these straps, as long as there’s a bit of metal to latch onto, like a roof rack or bull bar, setting up is a breeze.
But it’s not just about ease; it’s about practicality too. The awning comes equipped with rain gutters – a simple yet effective solution for capturing rainwater, a precious resource when off the grid. The material? A robust 900 denier polyester canvas that promises durability. And let’s talk about lighting – integrated LED lights in all four arms, offering both amber and white options. The amber setting, less attractive to insects, is a thoughtful touch for those serene evenings under the stars.
A standout feature this season is the D-shaped cutout, designed specifically for those running a rooftop tent with rear entry. It’s this kind of innovative thinking that transforms good gear into great gear, ensuring not just protection from the elements but a harmonious integration with your entire setup.
Inside the Shack: The Middle-Range Bushwakka Model
Stepping into the rooftop tent, the Bushwakka’s middle-range model presents a clever design with a half popup at the front and a full pop at the rear. This configuration offers unmatched ventilation, a critical factor in the balmy conditions many of us find ourselves in searching for the perfect campsite. The tent allows for a 360° airflow, ensuring a comfortable sleep no matter the weather.
The convenience doesn’t stop there. This model accommodates your bedding, allowing it to remain inside the tent while you’re on the move. It’s a feature that speaks volumes about the practicality of the design – because who wants to fuss with bedding after a long day of adventuring?
Let’s not forget about comfort. The tent boasts a 45mm memory foam mattress resting atop an anti-condensation mat. This ingenious addition elevates you slightly, preventing the dampness that often comes with camping in cooler climates. Combined with insulated roofing, ambient lighting options, and ample storage, this rooftop tent doesn’t just offer a place to sleep; it offers a sanctuary.
A Verdict from the Tracks
Having put the Bushwakka Extreme Darkness awning and the middle-range rooftop tent through their paces, I can confidently say they live up to the hype. The attention to detail, from the innovative D-shaped cutout to the integrated rain gutters and the thoughtful lighting system, sets these products apart. They’re not just gear; they’re a game-changer for anyone serious about their 4X4 adventures.
The quality, too, has left us impressed. Setting up camp in the rain used to be a dreaded end to a day’s drive, but with the awning’s coverage and the tent’s protective design, it’s become a non-issue. It’s clear that the folks at Bushwakka have not only listened to the needs of the 4X4 community but have gone above and beyond to meet them.
In the grand scheme of things, what we’re looking at here is more than just camping equipment. It’s proof that innovation can transform our experiences in the great outdoors. The Bushwakka Extreme Darkness awning and rooftop tent are not just purchases; they’re investments in countless adventures to come. For those looking to elevate their 4X4 camping game, these products are, without a doubt, a leap in the right direction.