They’re certainly not for all grey nomads – in fact they might not be for many at all – but the Thule brand claims its latest rooftop tents can take travel to a ‘new level’ … and it might just be enough to tempt a few older adventurers.
While it’s pretty unlikely that many nomads would sleep in a rooftop tent full-time while on the road, there are however certainly advantages to having it as an option for a night or two away from the van while exploring more remote and rugged routes.
The new Thule Approach – which will be available in Australia in April, 2023 – has pulled out all the stops to make itself a camper-friendly experience, but it has yet, of course, to overcome its number one drawback … the long and potentially perilous climb to get into it.
Grey nomads who may need to pop to the loo once or twice in the night might even consider that a fatal flaw!
But what about the plus points? Thule says its new rooftop tent maximises interior space, giving travellers a great place to hang out, and a comfortable night’s sleep. And it says, for an even more spacious experience, the tent is compatible with an annex or awning which is sold separately.
“The modern tent shape with an outward-angled entrance maximises interior space, and the premium, dual-density mattress creates a luxurious camping experience,” Thule says. “The large windows offer optimal views of the stars above, bring you closer to nature, and keep your tent cool and well-ventilated … skylights on the rain cover let you look outside even during the worst weather.”
Indeed, the Approach’s removable rain cover provides three modes of protection – heavy rain; rain protection that lets you see out of the windows and skylights; or ready-to-deploy mode, where the rain cover can easily be rolled out if it rains.
The company says its innovative mounting brackets let users attach the tent to their car in minutes, and the mounting hardware also locks the tent to roof racks for added security.
“Thule Approach will elevate your next adventure, quite literally, since you’ll be sleeping high above the ground,” said Thule. “The panoramic windows on the ceiling and walls will bring you closer to nature than you have ever been!”
The Thule Approach, which will be available in three sizes and three colour options, currently sells for around €3000, or A$4,450, in Europe.
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