UKC

For a number of years we have owned two tents - a trusty Quasar for occasions when we might need to carry it or travel light - and a Wild Country Family Khamsin for family/ valley/ camping out of the car use.

The Khamsin has been repaired numerous times and is now beyond being reliably waterproof or repairable any further. This tent is discontinued so I'm looking for alternatives with the following criteria;

It needs to be comfortable enough to spend a couple of weeks in - in the Alps/ Dolomites etc so robust and weatherproof. Doesn't need to be expedition friendly - but can't take up half the car either. Sitting space inside for at least 2 people comfortably - with reasonable headroom. And at least 1 sleeping area/ pod-  but would prefer 2 (2 people each - no more).

I'd rather get something decent that will last - and that spares will be available for - rather than a cheap one-hit wonder.

Any suggestions

I have a family khamsin in the cupboard here. It’s not been out for 10 years or so - no idea what state it’s in, but it was clean and dry when I put it away (I had just resealed the seams).  Inner was perfect as were the poles. Fly was in good condition UV wise just needed seams touching up.

it’s the old green model with the sensible doors not the weird flying saucer version of the late 2000s. 

I can bring it over next time I’m in the uk but won’t be until November. 

b

 

I can thoroughly recommend the Alpkit Axiom, spent 2 weeks in Scotland in April, withstood the wind and rain, (though has to be pitched facing downwind) and can get hot when it’s hot. Sleeps 4, albeit with a curtain separating the inner into 2 areas.

However, it has a very roomy vestibule, room for a table and two chairs, and the clincher for me was that it packs up ridiculously small and light, about the size of a carry-on. And I can just stand up in the outer at 6 foot. Might be a bit crowded for 4 adults though.

Seems Alpkit are now doing even bigger stuff, maybe worth taking a look, but the strong point for me was the packed size.

Another vote for the Alpkit Axiom here. Sounds like it ticks almost all your boxes. However 4 people for 2 weeks might be a bit much. In my view it's a perfect basecamp tent for two adults or a family of 4 willing to sacrifice some space for weather worthiness and smaller pack size.

Thanks for the replies and suggestions. I'd discounted the Alpkit Axiom as my daughter has one and I thought the materials weren't great quality - reinforced by an early pole breakage - but it does offer reasonable space.

I've since discovered the Vaude Badawi 4 - but that doesn't seem to be available in the UK as far as I can find - and is maybe too big?

Thanks for the offer Ben - but I think we will need to invest in the next month or so.

Thanks for the replies and suggestions. I'd discounted the Alpkit Axiom as my daughter has one and I thought the materials weren't great quality - reinforced by an early pole breakage - but it does offer reasonable space.

I've since discovered the Vaude Badawi 4 - but that doesn't seem to be available in the UK as far as I can find - and is maybe too big?

Thanks for the offer Ben - but I think we will need to invest in the next month or so.

Do consider the decathlon tents. They are generally well designed.

They have a generous returns deal at the moment - you could use it for your trip to try it out, and return if its not for you. 

https://www.decathlon.co.uk/c/htc/no-tent-left-behind_b3be522a-a5f2-497e-a9...