You might have the ultimate offroader, but what happens when you want to sleep on the trail? Sure, you could use a roof tent or just sleep under canvas, but if you're looking for a little more comfort and convenience, then this off-road trailer could be just the thing.

The Adventure Pro Mini 2.0 is a rugged camping trailer designed for use once you're off the Tarmac and into the rough stuff. The aim is to be able to take it anywhere your 4x4 will go and it comes from Kingdom Camping.

I'm not going to call it a caravan, but for those in the UK, this is definitely a caravan with a difference, more like a compact mobile living pod, fully equipped with everything you need to survive in the wild.

It's equipped with rock sliders to protect it on the move, while it features independent suspension for the wheels, wrapped in 33-inch offroad tyres.

While the outside has a contour-style design, there's checker plate for protection on the lower sections and a rack on the top – where the 400W solar panel sits. There's also a connector for Starlink on the roof to keep you connected (you'll have to supply the antenna).

There's a 2,000W inverter onboard and a 300Ah battery as well as electrical hook-up, with 110V sockets inside, a 12V aircon system and fridge freezer. There's even an integrated 24-inch Roku TV, as well as wireless charging.

The cabinetry in the cook area to the rear is power-coated aluminium, giving you plenty of storage, while there's a sink with hot and cold water.

There's no fixed bed, with the idea being that you deploy the tri-fold mattress for sleeping on the floor, with an additional fold-away bunk built in. That means you can move the bed out of the way to provide more stowage space or just living space if the weather is poor.

Cooking takes place outside, with a pull-out cooktop, while there's an outside shower too, so you can wash the trail dust off at the end of a hard day.

If the trailer in its stock form isn't palatial enough, there's a range of upgrades, including a larger battery, air suspension, a dehumidifier, 360-degree cameras and a whole lot more.

The price comes in at a surprisingly affordable $42,500, with a lead time of 6-10 weeks on orders. Delivery is listed as $2 per mile.

If post-apocalyptic caravans are your thing and delivery from Indiana looks inhibitive, then why not check out the Crawler TRC 458i or the Polydrops P21X, too?

Legendary German gear maker Deuter has unveiled the new Astro Pro, a range of down sleeping bags designed to help outdoor enthusiasts stay warmer and recover better during multi-day adventures in challenging environments.

The Astro Pro is aimed at mountaineers, backpackers and expedition users and prioritises insulation efficiency while keeping weight and pack size to a minimum.

The sleeping bag uses 750 cuin RDS-certified down, along with Deuter's PowerBox construction in the foot area and PeakDesign baffle layout in the upper body, to distribute insulation evenly and reduce cold spots.

One of the Astro Pro's more interesting features is its ThermoStretch construction.

According to the company, the design contours closely to the body, reducing the volume of air that needs to be heated by up to a whopping 25%.

The bag also features a ThermoHood around the head and an ErgoFoot Pro 3D footbox, which provides extra room for natural movement while sleeping.

Warmth without the dead space

Deuter says the Astro Pro's 360-degree insulation system helps maintain consistent warmth throughout the night, even as users change position while sleeping.

The company believes this can support better recovery, especially during demanding trips where quality rest is essential for performance the following day.

The range is available in multiple sizes and warmth ratings, from the Astro Pro 400 with a limit temperature of -6°C through to the Astro Pro 1000, which is rated down to -19°C.

Alongside its performance credentials, the Astro Pro is also PFAS-free, ClimatePartner certified and meets both Bluesign and Green Button sustainability standards.

More than 90% of the materials used come from Bluesign-certified factories, according to Deuter.

The Astro Pro series is available now at Deuter UK and Deuter EU, with prices from £340 / €390 (~$517 / AU$737).

The range isn't available to buy on Deuter's American or Australian sites yet.

Camping season is here, or so I've been told. If you're planning any camping trips this summer, it's best to have a look at the gadget and apparel options below.

From AI-powered smart glasses and compact wildlife-spotting optics to insect-repellent clothing and ultralight cooking systems, these upgrades solve real problems without adding unnecessary weight to your pack.

Columbia Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket (Insect Shield Collection)

£90 | Columbia

Summer camping is brilliant until the insects arrive, which also coincides with the weather getting colder in the early evening/ morning.

Luckily, Columbia's Skien Valley Hooded Light Jacket can not only keep you warm but also safe from bugs.

Part of the brand's Insect Shield collection, it uses built-in insect-repellent technology to deter mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting bugs without relying on sprays or lotions.

The lightweight construction makes it easy to stash in a backpack, while the hood provides additional coverage when conditions turn buggy.

(There are also matching pants.)

Opinel N°08 Horizon Knife

€25 | Opinel (~£22)

A camping kit is only as good as its most-used tool, and few knives have the heritage of the Opinel N°08.

This special Horizon version retains all the features that made the French folding knife a classic, including the 8.5cm stainless-steel blade and Opinel's Virobloc safety ring, which locks the blade open or closed.

The bright handle makes it easier to spot if dropped in long grass or left on a picnic table. It's a lightweight essential that earns its place on every trip, whether you're slicing food, opening packaging or tackling campsite chores.

Nalgene 24oz Sustain FreshFlow Straw Bottle

£19.82 | Amazon

Hydration might not be the most glamorous camping topic, but it quickly becomes one of the most important.

Nalgene's 24oz Sustain FreshFlow Straw Bottle modernises the brand's famously bombproof water bottle formula with a convenient flip-up straw lid for easy drinking on the move.

Made from Tritan Renew, which incorporates recycled content, it's durable enough to withstand years of outdoor adventures while helping reduce waste.

The leak-resistant design makes it suitable for backpacks, while the familiar wide-mouth construction keeps cleaning simple. It's a practical upgrade you'll use just as often at home as around the campsite.

NOCS Zero Tube 10x25 Waterproof Monocular

$180 | NOCS (~£136)

The NOCS Zero Tube is a compact monocular that delivers 10x magnification and a 25mm objective lens in a pocket-friendly package.

Waterproof and fogproof construction means it can handle unpredictable weather, while the rugged exterior is designed for outdoor use.

It's ideal for spotting wildlife, checking distant trails or getting a closer look at mountain scenery without carrying larger optics. It's the type of gadget that can make a campsite feel much bigger.

Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 2

From £399 | Ray-Ban (also available at Vision Express)

Smart glasses might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a camping trip, but the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer Gen 2 makes a surprisingly strong case.

(Also, this is T3, so we'll be talking about technology one way or another.)

Equipped with an integrated camera and open-ear speakers, the glasses can capture photos and videos hands-free, which can be super handy in a camping situation where you might be cooking food with one hand while holding a drink with the other.

They're particularly useful on hikes, around camp or when exploring unfamiliar areas. Better still, they look like regular Wayfarers rather than overtly futuristic tech, making them one of the most practical wearable gadgets currently available.

Primus Lite Ultra Stove System 0.8L

£145 | Primus

Every camping setup eventually revolves around food, coffee or both, and Primus' Lite Ultra Stove System 0.8L is designed to make those moments easier.

The brand's lightest stove system yet, it has an integrated burner and pot system, combining efficient cooking performance with an incredibly compact design.

The 0.8-litre hard-anodised pot locks securely onto the burner for stability, and once cooking (and cleanup) is done, you can pop it in your backpack or large cargo pocket.

+1 Red Bull Summer Edition

£18.99 (12-pack) | Amazon

Can't be bothered to cook coffee in the morning but want to feel energised? Have a Red Bull. The popular energy drink recently released a new flavour, Citrus Zest, so even if you aren't too keen on the original taste, you should be able to enjoy the refreshing, bubbly drink on a hike or walk. Better still, it also comes in a sugar-free version if you're watching those pesky calories (as I do).

Camping gear used to fall into two camps: ultralight kit for hikers and bulky equipment for everyone else.

However, with people turning their cars, campervans and rooftop tent setups into mobile base camps, there is more demand for a new breed of outdoor gear that prioritises comfort alongside portability.

This is where Swedish outdoor brand Primus' new Moto Stove come into play.

The two-burner camping stove is designed for van-lifers, campsite cooks, and anyone who prefers to prepare a proper breakfast.

The slim, low-profile design folds neatly into a compact package, making it easy to store in a campervan, car boot, or rooftop tent setup without taking up precious space.

Built for campsite cooking

The Moto Stove features two 4,400W burners, allowing users to boil, simmer and cook multiple dishes simultaneously.

Separate flame controls provide independent adjustment for each burner, while wraparound windscreens help maintain cooking performance in less-than-ideal conditions.

An integrated Piezo igniter means there's no need to carry a lighter, either.

According to the brand, the stove can comfortably cater for between one and five people, which makes it suitable for everything from solo road trips to family camping weekends.

The company says it has also focused on durability, using powder-coated steel alongside stainless steel and nickel-chrome cooking surfaces that should withstand regular outdoor use while remaining easy to clean.

As rooftop tents, campervan conversions and vehicle-based adventures continue to gain popularity, so does the desire to recreate more of the home cooking experience outdoors.

The Moto Stove is for these campers, those who want a reliable camp kitchen they can keep in the car and deploy whenever hunger strikes.

The Moto Stove is available now at Primus UK and Primus EU, with an RRP of £130 / €160 (~$172 / AU$245).

Primus doesn't list the Moto Stove on its US website (yet).

With festival season in full swing (and Download already behind us), it's probably time to think about getting a new tent if yours looks worse for wear. If you've ever been to a festival, you know how hard it is to find your shelter in the sea of samey-samey tents, which is why this hot pink tent from Eurohike can come in handy.

Shop all tents in the GO Outdoors sale

The 4-person tent isn't new, but last time it was in stock, it became something of a viral sensation and sold out pretty quickly. It's not only back in stock, but GO Outdoors also decided to cut the price for its members in half. Better still, the retailer offers a matching pink camping chair for only £10 for members.

• Not a Go Outdoors Member? The tent is also available at Amazon for just £1 more

At this price, the Eurohike Sendero 4 is very much aimed at first-time campers, festival-goers and families looking for maximum space without spending air-tent money.

It sleeps four people and uses a simple fibreglass pole structure that's designed to be quick and straightforward to pitch, even if you've never put up a tent before.

The tent has a generous sleeping area paired with a covered porch, giving you somewhere to stash muddy boots, backpacks, and other gear without cluttering the bedroom.

The Sendero 4 also includes a fully sewn-in groundsheet to keep out draughts, insects and damp ground conditions. Two side windows with mesh ventilation panels and roll-down curtains allow plenty of natural light during the day while maintaining privacy when needed.

Eurohike has also fitted luminous guylines to improve visibility around camp after dark and add stability in poor weather. According to the specifications, the tent offers a 2,000mm hydrostatic head waterproof rating, measures 455 x 260 x 170cm when pitched and packs down to 61 x 23 x 23cm. Total weight is 9.02kg.

To complete the setup, GO Outdoors is also discounting the matching Eurohike Peak Folding Chair to just £10. The portable camping chair weighs 2.2kg, folds into its own carry bag and features extended armrests plus a built-in drinks holder.

To access the member pricing, you'll need a GO Outdoors Membership, which costs £5 for 12 months and unlocks member-only discounts across the retailer's range.

I can still remember a time when the best portable cool boxes were little more than glorified plastic tubs with a bag of melting ice thrown in. Of course, this method of cooling is still extremely popular, as evidenced by the rise of YETI and other cool box manufacturers.

But when it comes to the end of day two and the ice has disappeared, the milk’s turning to yoghurt and your drinks no longer have that refreshing icy-cold punch, you’ll wish you’d bought a proper compressor fridge/freezer instead.

This is where the compact fridge/freezer from premium Swedish outdoor brand Dometic comes into play. While not cheap by a long shot, the 25-litre CFX5 promises improved vacuum-based insulation, a variable-speed compressor for better energy efficiency and a wider-than-average temperature range of -22°C to 20°C. Will all this encouraging tech justify the lofty asking price? Let’s check it out.

Dometic CFX5 25-litre fridge/freezer review

Price and availability

The Dometic CFX5 25 sits firmly at the premium end of the portable fridge/freezer market, with UK prices hovering between £650 and £700 and US pricing landing at roughly $900.

If shopping in the UK, try Dometic direct or Decathlon, AlpineTrek and 4x4 Works. Amazon also sells it, though, at £798.99, the price is even higher. In the USA, your best port of call is Dometic, where the CFX5 25 shifts for $899.99. Alternatively, try Amazon, where it’s selling for $900.

Specifications

• Capacity: 25 litres (26.41 qt)
• Zones: One
• Temperature Range: -22°C to 20°C (-7.6°F - 68°F)
• Capacity: 40 cans (330ml)
• Size: 56.9 x 34.2 x 42cm (22.4 x 13.46 x 16.53in)
• Weight: 13.5kgs / 29.76 lbs
• Power consumption: +/- 45W
• Max operating temp: 43°C (109°F)
• Built-in battery: No
• Connectivity: Bluetooth only
• Warranty: 3 years

Design and features

Best known for its pricey but highly regarded range of caravan and camper van appliances and accessories, Swedish brand Dometic's products combine durable practicality with a clean Scandinavian design aesthetic that signals to other campers that you have extremely discerning taste when it comes to high-end camping gear and that money is no object. In fact, you could say that Dometic is to camping what Miele is to the kitchen and utility room.

One of six different-sized models in the new flagship CFX5 range, this compact 25-litre refrigerator-cum-freezer blends robust engineering with understated Scandi styling that has become synonymous with the brand. Put another way, Dometic gear is instantly recognisable because most of the company's products share a distinctive design ethos and dark grey colour scheme.

With 25 litres of interior space, this single-zone model features a large cavity with a removable easy-load basket for drinks, milk, etc., and a small side area for oft-used perishables like butter, bacon, burgers or sausages, or simply more drinks.

According to Dometic, the CFX5 can accommodate up to 40 x 330ml cans of beverages, and I’d say that’s more than enough liquid refreshment for a family of four, given that the cavity will be replenished over time. The cavity is also equipped with a drainage plug and a bright LED lamp.

At 56.9 x 34.2 x 42cm, the CFX5's compact 25-litre form is perfectly shaped to slot neatly into a hatchback, estate, 4x4 or camper van. In fact, Dometic even provides an optional Quick Fixing Kit that locks the unit firmly in place during transit.

While this model doesn't have wheels like the larger BougeRV CRD2 40L model I recently reviewed, its smaller form and much lighter 13.5-kilo weight, coupled with its two strapping, sprung aluminium handles, make it easy to carry from car to pitch.

However, I’ll admit it's definitely a two-person job if lugging it to a beach picnic or on any trip on foot longer than 30 metres or so. But on the plus side, when you get to the beach and discover that no one brought a bottle opener, you’ll be thanking Dometic’s design bods for attaching one next to one of the handles.

Dometic products rarely disappoint in overall build quality and functionality, and this model is no exception. Aside from being cast mostly from tough ABS plastic, it also boasts vacuum-insulated panels (VIP, to coin yet another acronym) that work like your average insulated drinks bottle.

According to Dometic, this type of vacuum system drastically reduces heat transfer and convective heat loss while being extremely energy-efficient and lightweight. Its hardy textured ABS lid, meanwhile, is easily strong enough to sit on and grippy enough for standing drinks, though it does attract a lot of dust.

However, I must stress that to properly seal the lid, you have to press it down firmly until you hear a click. This is because the Dometic CFX5 – and CFX3 series – incorporate TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) gaskets that create a highly effective seal, preventing warm ambient air from seeping in and lowering the temperature.

The CFX5 can be powered in two ways: AC via a mains outlet or DC via the car’s cigarette lighter socket and any portable power station. You’ll find the ports on the rear of the unit under a pair of rubber flaps.

For convenience, the unit ships with cables for both UK and European AC use, plus another one for DC. Oh, and there’s also an 18W USB-A device-charging port next door to the unit’s interface.

One major bonus of this model is that it's equipped with Dometic's latest variable-speed compressor, which automatically adjusts its operating speed to match cooling demands while delivering rapid temperature reduction, efficient off-grid power consumption (around 45W on average) when used with a portable power station, and generally quiet performance.

In fact, I measured the CFX5’s sound at 58 dB up against the ventilation grill and around 44dB from three feet away. Granted, you may hear an occasional faint buzz from the compressor when in the tent at night, but it’s no worse than other refrigerators I’ve used.

Since the CFX5 is a bona fide fridge/freezer, it boasts a commendable temperature range of -22°C to 20°C – that's 2°C lower than an average home freezer – and a maximum ambient operating temperature of 43°C. The hottest I've ever measured in a tent was 40°C during a French heatwave, so a 43°C max is very promising indeed.

I’m a big advocate of models that both refrigerate and freeze. No, you may not use the freezer function when camping, but it’s good to know you can quickly get drinks down to ice-cold by whacking the temp to a minus figure.

Also, having a freezer function may prove very useful at home when your house freezer is full and you can’t squeeze in those three tubs of Häagen-Dazs ice cream you just brought home.

While this model works with the Dometic Mobile Cooling app, the app itself is so basic as to be almost surplus to requirements, but more on this below.

Your best bet for changing any of the unit’s parameters is to use the onboard interface, which comprises a one-inch black-and-white display with soft-touch rubber buttons for On/Off, arrows for up and down, and another button for confirming temperature settings.

The main menu is divided as follows: Set Temp, Battery Protection, Bluetooth, WiFi, Display brightness, and Temp Units (°C/°F). Most of these functions are self-evident, so I’ll discuss just two of them: Battery Protection and WiFi.

Battery Protection is essentially a built-in low-voltage cut-off system designed to stop the fridge from draining your vehicle’s battery. When the fridge is connected to a 12V DC source, such as a car’s cigarette lighter socket, a 12V or 24V leisure battery, or a portable power pack, the CFX5 constantly monitors the incoming voltage.

If the voltage drops below a preset threshold, the fridge automatically switches itself off before the battery becomes dangerously depleted. Once the battery voltage rises again, the fridge restarts automatically. I should add that most cars built since 2015 automatically shut off their 12V ports when the ignition is completely off.

Since this model is compatible with the Dometic Mobile Cooling app and there’s a WiFi icon and setting on the fridge’s interface, you might reasonably assume that it will connect to your phone via WiFi as well as Bluetooth.

Well, I had no issues setting it up using Bluetooth, but it simply refused to connect to my WiFi. So I looked it up and, according to a news-bite, Dometic has removed the WiFi setting feature as ‘a measure reflecting global policy standards in accordance with new cybersecurity laws recently implemented in Europe’.

I thought I’d point this out because these new laws clearly came into effect after the CFX5 series was produced. Mind, this doesn’t make much difference to how the app works, because it only performs two simple functions: temperature setting and temperature units.

But, hey, at least you can adjust the cooler’s internal temperature via Bluetooth without getting off your butt, so the app does have at least one redeeming feature.

Performance

I haven’t had the chance to test this sterling fridge/freezer while camping, but I have tried it at home and I’m very impressed by its performance and its ability to display accurate internal temperatures when checked against my two fridge thermometers.

Where, for instance, the much cheaper BougeRV CRD2 I recently reviewed displayed some fluctuations in temperature, this one has been mostly rock-solidly accurate, at least inside the larger cavity. My first test was to see how quickly it went from 22°C ambient to -10°C, and it took a solid 25 minutes.

However, when I checked my own thermometers (which might not be especially accurate for all I know), the large cavity read -6.6°C and the smaller section 0.2°C. I think they simply took longer to catch up because after one hour, the thermometer in the large cavity showed -9.4°C, and -7°C in the smaller cavity. That's good enough for me.

I then performed another test to see how quickly the temperature dropped from -10°C to -20°C. It took just over 15 minutes, with my thermometer reading -20°C and the smaller compartment at -14°C.

My final test was to see how quickly or slowly the internal temperature dropped from -20°C when I turned the whole unit off. Considering there was no ice on board to maintain low temperatures, it was still -4°C after 55 minutes, and that seemed decent enough.

I look forward to taking this model on my next camping trip and using it with one of my portable power stations and a 200W solar panel, enough power on tap to run this thing for several days if the sun’s out to play. However, I would most definitely load it up the evening before and set it to around 2°C so it’s perfectly chilled for the next morning.

One of the main reasons I’m smitten by this model is that it’s the perfect size for a couple on a three-night stint in the great outdoors. It’s also an easier fit for the car, and I alone can carry it when full from the boot to the pitch without my spine snapping.

And when I get back home, it takes up far less storage space, which means more room for any future camping gear. It’s a win, win, win for me.

Verdict

The Dometic CFX5 25 is undeniably one of the best-built portable compressor fridge/freezers I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing.

I love the minimalist design of its rugged shell, its neatly integrated aluminium handles and clever vacuum-insulated panels to help maximise internal space while reducing energy consumption. Its temperature accuracy is also exemplary, holding settings with impressive precision whether chilling drinks or freezing food.

However, it isn’t flawless. The companion app feels oddly dated, and then there’s the price. By comparison to other fridge/freezers I’ve tested, including the 35-litre EcoFlow Glacier Classic, which ships with a 40-hour battery for £609, the CFX5 25’s £699.99 asking price is pretty lofty, even by premium camping standards.

Nevertheless, its superb cooling performance and efficiency go a long way towards justifying the outlay.

If you’re newer to camping and backpacking, you might not know that sleeping outdoors used to be an exercise in extreme suffering. Until two former Boeing engineers and backpackers invented the self-inflating camping mat, that is.

Patented in the early 1970s as the first Therm-a-Rest pad, the self-inflating mattress added air to the traditional foam pads and comfort in camp was born.

In reality, it took a few decades for Therm-a-Rest to perfect these pads, but these days there are tons of options that are ideal for a night under the stars. From my first Therm-a-Rest, acquired 20 years ago, which was a rather slender and rough affair, to my deep-dish Therm-a-Rest Neoloft, I’ve really appreciated the Seattle brand’s commitment to honing its craft.

I love camping, and I love sleeping well, so when I was offered the chance to test the updated Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro, I immediately said yes.

Straight away, I could tell that the Trail Pro emphasises comfort and durability. I can feel that it’s packed with lots of foam for plushness and has a really high-quality face fabric, plus a robust construction.

That said, it’s not especially light or packable, but its mummy-shaped design does reduce space and weight. And it has the word “Trail” in the name. So is it meant for backpacking, or car camping?

I took the Trail Pro on a hiking trip to the Isle of Mull to get to the bottom of this puzzling pad. I was travelling around the island by car, so I didn’t need to worry about lugging it on my back. I did pack it in my backpack, along with my tent and clothing, for organisational purposes, and used it for wild camping in my tiny backpacking tent.

Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad review

Price and availability

The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro is available in Regular size, which I tested, with an MSRP of £135 at third-party retailers such as Ultralight Outdoor Gear in the UK and $160 at REI in the US. It sells for €150 in the EU and around AU$350 in Australia.

For an extra £10 / $10, you can grab an extra 15cm of width in the Wide version, and for reasons I’ll discuss below, that’s what I would recommend.

That pricing is on par with the truly excellent Big Agnes Rapide SL, which is about the best pad I’ve tested, and more than the Rab Exosphere 3.5, which I recently tested and is very comfortable, less bulky and lighter than this one.

Compared with other Therm-a-Rest pads in the non-ultralight range, the Neoloft is smaller when packed, wider and thicker when inflated, but costs considerably more at £250 / $250 / €300 / AU$390.

Design and materials

Pads built for comfort often come in rectangular designs that provide more sleeping surface, but the Trail Pro comes in a mummy shape, which cuts down on weight and bulk while still leaving room in my tiny backpacking tent.

This design also helps trap heat more effectively. This pad has a 4.4 R-value, which makes it a viable option for year-round use (here in the UK, anyway).

Insulation is largely provided by a very healthy dose of foam. There is a thin, continuous layer of foam with ridges of thicker foam that I can feel even when the pad is deflated. These layers are nestled between air ridges in a design that Therm-a-Rest calls Stratacore because it mimics parallel layers of rock stacked on top of one another.

While the thick foam core keeps you well suspended off the ground, the 50D polyester stretch-knit fabric is noticeably more comfortable and higher quality than most pads I’ve tested. It feels positively lovely against my skin and doesn’t make a sound when I roll over.

All of this means that the Regular size I tested weighs a hefty 774g on the scale and packs down to only 28 x 22 cm. Will it fit in a 65L backpack like my Cascade Design Flex Capacitor for a multi-day trek? Sure, but it will take up a lot more valuable space than my Big Agnes Rapide SL.

One brownie point I wanted to mention is that this pad is made in Ireland, so while it doesn’t list any recycled materials, for UK campers it does cut down on transportation-related emissions enormously compared to pads manufactured in Asia.

Inflation process

I’ve loved the WingLock valve on other Therm-a-Rest pads, and on this one, as soon as I open it, I hear the air whooshing in and see the pad inflate within seconds.

After that, it takes about 8-10 puffs to fully inflate it, which is more than on pads like the Rab Eoxsphere 3.5, but it is a larger pad. As it gets fuller, the air tends to want to leak out between puffs, but it’s easy enough to manage.

I usually really like the deflation process with the WingLock too, which means most of the air whooshes out with a twist of the valve, but I think the ridge design of this pad traps more air than some, so it takes a little extra squeezing while rolling to get it out.

Performance and comfort

Once I got this pad blown up, there was no denying how plush it felt. It’s one of those pads I can kneel on without any part of me touching the ground, which usually bodes really well for side sleeping. However, I really didn’t sleep well on this pad.

At 183cm long, there’s no danger of my feet hanging off the end, but it feels really narrow, and at 5’4”, I am not a big human. On paper, it’s as wide as my Rab Exosphere, but it’s not as stable. It’s not exactly like sleeping on a boat, but every time I changed position, I felt like I was going to tumble off it.

I couldn’t quite put my finger on why this was happening, but after a little research, it seems that horizontal baffles tend to reduce stability compared to air-sprung cells like those in my Sea to Summit Ultralight XR. Perhaps this combined with the lack of sidewalls is what made me feel like I was going to topple off it all night? I definitely wasn’t as impressed as I thought I’d be.

In the morning, I was worried it would be one of those pads that never go back in their stuff sacks when I saw how big it was, rolled up. Fortunately, Therm-a-Rest designs its stuff sacks with compression straps these days, so I could quite painlessly slide it back in and then secure it.

It fits in my Helly Hansen Relay pack, which is 42L, alongside my tent and spare clothes, so I believe I could technically bring it backpacking, but with so many smaller pads like the Big Agnes Rapide SL available, I’m not sure why I would.

Verdict

The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro isn’t a bad sleeping pad by any stretch of the imagination, but it does suffer somewhat from an identity crisis.

It’s at once a bit too bulky and heavy to be a realistic option for backpacking, but it doesn’t quite offer the real estate I want for a car-camping pad. It’s also not as stable as other designs, so if you tend to change position a lot when you sleep, you might want to consider an air-sprung pad.

When there are other plush pads on the market that are more backpacking-friendly (like the Big Agnes Rapide SL) and car camping pads like the Therm-a-Rest Neoloft that give you more sleeping room, it’s tricky to make a good case for this one, even with its perks.

If you like the idea of a comfortable pad in a mummy-shaped design and you only plan to go car camping, I’d recommend the Wide option to improve your sleep.

Also consider

The Big Agnes Rapide SL is the obvious choice for anyone who likes the Trail Pro's comfort but wants something genuinely suited to carrying on their back. The Regular version weighs just 597g and packs down to be dramatically smaller than the Trail Pro, yet still offers excellent comfort, impressive stability, and a generous 3.5-inch thickness.

If weight and pack size aren't priorities, the Therm-a-rest NeoLoft is the sleeping pad the Trail Pro wishes it could be. It has a huge sleeping surface, 4.6-inch thickness, quiet construction and exceptional comfort. Unlike the Trail Pro, it fully commits to the comfort-first approach, offering a wider, more stable platform that feels much closer to a real mattress.

The Therm-a-Rest Vesper is an industry leader in camping quilts, but for reasons I can’t fully understand, the market for camping quilts is very, very small.

Camping quilts take the basic premise of a sleeping bag and refine it for weight and packability. The zip is removed, but it still has an enclosed footbox, a snap closure around the neck, and removable straps to attach it to your sleeping pad. The result is that you can eliminate drafts and stay toasty but feel less restricted at night, and move fast and light between camps.

It’s a no-brainer for fastpacking, but the concept hasn’t exactly been snapped up by many big outdoor brands. Versions like Rab’s Neutrino 200 and Big Agnes’ Kings Canyon UK are largely out of stock, and only Sea to Summit and Therm-a-Rest seem to be pressing ahead, the former with the Ember Down quilt and the latter with the Vesper.

I got my hands on both of those quilts back in 2022 and, with the exception of some very cold camping at high altitude on the trek to Everest Base Camp, I’ve never gone back to using a sleeping bag.

The only issue I had with the Vesper at the time was that the footbox was a little too tight for comfort, but the updated design has eliminated that issue and added a substantial amount of down, all while keeping the weight at an industry-leading low.

I’ve been camping with the 2026 version of this quilt for the past three months here in Scotland, from the Isle of Mull to a two-day hike of the Berwickshire Coastal Path to test its newfound capabilities.

Therm-a-Rest Vesper 20°F / 6°C Down Quilt (2026) review

Price and availability

According to Therm-a-Rest, the Vesper 20°F / 6°C is available in Regular (201cm) and Long (211cm) options, but only the regular size seems to be available right now, with prices starting at £455 from online retailers like Ellis Brigham.

That’s quite a leap up from the Vesper 32°F / 0°, which retails for £380 and even leapfrogs the pricey Sea to Summit Ember Down quilt, putting it at a premium price.

It’s only available in the Vapor colourway (silvery grey), and it comes with both a storage and a stuff sack.

Design and materials

The Vesper is packed with 360g of 900-fill, PFAS-free hydrophobic goose down, which is just about as high-quality as you can find.

It’s collected into box baffles that the brand says have mesh walls to optimise loft and reduce cold spots. Extra baffles around the edge create a wall of insulation where you might expect a draft to snake in.

When I hold it up to the light, I can see that the down is really well distributed, with more in the foot box, and it’s easy to redistribute with a quick shake if it ends up bunched in the corner of a baffle after packing.

A deep footbox and snap-neck closer mean I can cinch it tightly around me in frigid conditions. Where the original design had only one strap to attach it to a sleeping pad, the updated version has two, and they work with both my Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft and Sea to Summit Ultralight XR pads.

The shell material is gloriously soft, and it’s almost a shame to wear pyjamas with this quilt as it feels so nice against my skin.

Performance and comfort

I’m only 162cm tall, and the regular size I’ve been testing gives me plenty of coverage, thanks to a generous width of 125cm across my shoulders. We’ve tested it out on my boyfriend, who is 180cm tall, and it’s long and wide enough for him too.

The foot box is still snug enough for warmth, but I no longer find it restricting when I’m lying on my back, and the width means I can sleep on my side without a draft.

This quilt has a comfort rating of 0°C and a limit of -6°C. I’m not a cold sleeper (in fact, I run like a furnace at night), so I should be able to sleep normally at temperatures down to 0°C and battle through the night even when it drops below freezing.

I haven’t pushed this quilt to its limits because I’ve been testing it in the spring, but we have had an unusually cold season so far, and I’ve been completely unbothered by the chill at night while using the Vesper.

I haven’t got too warm the way I might in a similarly rated sleeping bag, because it’s so easy to stick a leg out and cool off, but I’ve never struggled with the cold or even needed to use the snap neck closure. For me, using the straps to attach it to my pad and snuggling my feet into the footbox has been enough.

The use of Hydrophobic down isn’t surprising anymore, but it is a boon to a bag that’s going to be used primarily in British weather, as I can trust it to keep insulating even if it gets a little damp.

Though it weighs more than the Vesper 32 (because it contains more down), it’s still lighter than my Sea to Summit Ember, and at just 555g, I didn’t notice it in my pack at all during my recent thru-hike.

It’s pretty easy to pack into the stuff sack, and though I’d say the packed size is a bit bigger than the advertised 14 cm x 20 cm, it’s not a whole lot bigger than my water bottle and even fits in my 20L daypack.

The only slight gripe I have is that because the straps are detachable, they’re quite easy to lose, but for the summer months I’m quite happy to just pack them away safely.

Verdict

For the past four years, the only reason my Sea to Summit quilt kept winning out over my Vesper is that the footbox in the latter was a little tight. Now that the problem has been resolved, I can’t see any reason not to make this my camping staple. It’s light, packable, warm, and versatile, and it gives me the freedom to sleep in all positions.

If you think a camping quilt is the right choice for you, there are a few points to consider. With a comfort rating of 0°C, this quilt could certainly see you through a lot of weather, but whether or not it’s winter-ready all depends on where you’re likely to want to camp this winter and at what altitude.

The premium price is another consideration, but this quilt doesn’t have much competition (yet, anyway).

You can still find Sea to Summit’s Ember Down quilt at a lower price at retailers like Alpine Trek, which has similar specs but isn’t quite as luxurious feeling, and if you decide a more traditional sleeping bag is the way to go, we rate the Rab Neutrino 200, which is heavier but cheaper.

Festival season is upon us, and one thing that every person attending an outdoor music event needs is a reliable tent. Ideally, the shelter should be easy to transport and set up, have plenty of storage, and, of course, enough room for more than one person to sleep in. Plus, wouldn't it be nice if it didn't cost the earth either?

Shop all tent deals at Decathlon

Well, aren't you lucky, as Decathlon's Quechua Instant 3-person camping tent 2 Seconds does it all and is also pretty affordable. The outdoor retailer just dropped the price – permanently, I might add! – by nearly one-fourth, making the shelter a lot more appealing than it already was.

Designed to sleep up to three people, the tent features Decathlon's signature instant-pitch system, allowing it to deploy in seconds without the usual hassle of threading poles or deciphering instructions.

Better still, it's a freestanding design, meaning it can be moved around after pitching to find the perfect spot before being secured.

Inside, campers get a 210 x 180cm sleeping area with a maximum internal height of 109cm, providing enough room for three sleeping mats. Ventilation is handled by a roof vent, two side vents and a mesh upper door section, helping to improve airflow and reduce condensation during warmer nights.

The polyester flysheet features a 2,000mm waterproof rating, all seams are taped, and Decathlon says the tent has been tested under a simulated 200 litres of water per hour shower for three hours. Wind resistance is rated to 50km/h (!) when properly pitched with the supplied guy ropes.

Weighing 3.6kg and packing into a distinctive circular carry case, the tent is aimed at festivalgoers, weekend campers and anyone who values convenience over ultra-lightweight performance. Decathlon also keeps replacement parts available, making repairs easier and extending the life of the tent.

Founded in 1981, Rab has been making outdoor kit for exactly as long as I’ve been alive, but it only got into the sleeping pad game three years ago. I’ve loved their down jackets, waterproofs and winter gloves, so I was keen to get them out in the wild and finally managed to do so this spring.

The line of sleeping pads includes the Hypersphere Ultra (very warm) and the Ionosphere 5 (light and lofty), both of which we’ve rated highly at T3, but the Exosphere is a little less technical, more of a well-priced all-rounder. Don’t let that put you off, however, as it’s a great piece of kit.

The Exosphere 3.5 is the only self-inflating pad from Rab so far, which means it’s easy to set up and will be one of the most comfortable pads in its line.

Conceived by Therm-a-Rest in the 1970s, self-inflating mats are a happy compromise between closed-cell and inflatable mats: more comfortable than the former and less flimsy and cheaper than the latter. They use foam for comfort and insulation, and will inflate most of the way on their own if you open the valve and go and do something for half an hour.

This three-season, rectangular-shaped pad gives you a little more real estate than a mummy-shaped design, and works for backpacking, but may be better for car camping. Can it rival a Therm-a-Rest? With the weather finally turning for the better here in the UK, I took it to the Isle of Mull to find out.

Rab Exosphere 3.5 Self Inflating Sleep Mat review

Price and availability

The Rab Exosphere 3.5 is available in Regular and Long/Wide sizes directly from Rab, with an MSRP of £110 for Regular (the size I tested) and £130 for Long/Wide.

The recommended retail price is on par with similar self-inflating mats from Therm-a-Rest, such as the ProLite, though spec-wise it’s closer to the more expensive Therm-a-Rest ProLite Apex. It’s substantially cheaper than almost all of Rab’s other sleeping pads (the Hypersphere Ultra 7.5 costs twice as much).

Design and materials

The rectangular shape of this pad means there’s more of it at the bottom, and that means less of me ends up on the cold, hard ground. At the shoulders, it’s the same width as my Therm-a-Rest Prolite, though anyone with very broad shoulders should try the wider size for a nominal increase in price and packed size.

The real talking point in the design of this pad, however, is the use of XCore foam, which is apparently constructed in a honeycomb pattern to provide optimal support while reducing weight.

I imagine this functioning like the sole of a running shoe with large sections of foam cut out, yet still feeling springy. It’s 5cm thick when inflated, which I should point out is twice the thickness of the Therm-a-Rest ProLite and with a 3.5 R-value, it’s good for three-season use but not for winter camping.

Protecting that foam is a polyester shell that’s durable but feels quite nice against bare skin. In total, the pad has 14% recycled content, which is considerably less than the Rab Ionosphere 5, and its sustainability creds are slightly undercut by the fact that it’s manufactured in China, unlike many Therm-a-Rest pads, which are made in Ireland. But it is made without PFAS and uses a fluorocarbon-free DWR.

At 665g, it’s not the lightest pad out there, which is par for the course with self-inflating mats, and it packs down to 26cm x 17cm. Because sleeping pads like my Big Agnes Rapide SL have got so tiny in recent years, it looked huge to me at first, but after a few uses, I realised it’s just a standard-size mat that could work for backpacking, but is probably better for car camping.

Inflation process

There’s no fancy inflation sack here because, ostensibly anyway, you don’t need one. The Exosphere has a low-profile two-way valve that doesn’t stick out when it’s packed away and handy instructions sewn into the stuff sack.

I’m usually too impatient to actually let pads self-inflate, but in the name of journalism, I did open the valve all the way up and left it alone for 30 minutes. When I came back, it took just four puffs to fully inflate it.

On a recent car camp where I arrived at 10:30 p.m. and just needed to get some kip, I inflated it by mouth, which took somewhere between 15 to 20 breaths – not bad at all, though it is a little harder on the lungs than some pads.

To deflate, it’s a case of opening the valve and the air releases easily. I found it easy to roll it back up, though it can take a little bit of wrestling to get it back into its stuff sack. Fortunately, the sack has a stretchy opening and two stretchy bands, so it works well enough even when I pack it haphazardly.

Performance and comfort

I actually first used this pad to sleep in the back of my car, which is a much more lumpy affair than sleeping on the ground. But no amount of seatbelts or other automobile detritus was a match for this pad, which is plush enough to feel almost like my mattress at home.

It’s so stable that I can actually kneel on it in my tent without my knees touching the ground. I tend to sleep in many different shapes and positions, and when I’m on my side, my hip doesn’t get sore. It even works for sleeping on my front, which can’t be said for all pads.

It fits in my rather modest one-person backpacking tent, and its shape gives me more protection than a mummy-shaped pad. It’s free of annoying rustling and feels quite nice against my skin, unlike some pads that can be a bit scratchy or sweaty.

I’ve been testing it in spring conditions, and I’ve been warm enough. I wouldn’t use this for camping in the snow, but for milder winter conditions, which we often have in the UK, it would probably suffice.

Verdict

The Rab Exosphere 3.5 is a first-rate self-inflating sleeping pad, and it’s hard to see how the brand could improve on it next time unless they make it lighter and smaller or use more recycled materials.

It’s as comfortable a pad as you can find – supportive, stable, and pretty low maintenance overall. It’s tough enough to withstand being tossed around on your adventures and comes in at just the right price for its performance.

I’ll probably save it for car camping, but that’s only because I’m spoilt for choice with packable pads – if I were buying one pad for both car camping and backpacking, I’d strongly consider this one.

BOTE has launched a new modular chair-and-cooler system that pushes it deep into premium outdoor-lifestyle territory.

The Florida company first made its name with premium paddleboards and inflatable docks before gradually expanding into floating loungers, magnetic drinkware and cooler systems.

Now, it’s moving even further onto the cooler king’s (a.k.a. YETI) turf with the launch of the new Mule Series.

The new setup includes a combination of the Mule Dune Chair, Mule Outpost Chair, Mule Tote and the KULA Mule cooler, all designed to work together as one modular carry system.

Carry culture

Even though the products can be purchased on their own, BOTE sells the lot together as the “Mule Series Full Haul” bundle, which includes two chairs, the tote, and the cooler, priced at $849 MSRP.

Visually and conceptually, the whole thing feels remarkably close to the premium ecosystem approach pioneered by YETI.

The folding camping chairs immediately bring to mind the Trailhead Camp Chair and Yeti Hondo Beach Chair, while the Mule Tote looks strikingly similar to the Yeti Camino Carryall range.

The compact KULA Mule cooler also lands somewhere between a soft cooler and a smaller Roadie 15 Yeti cooler in both size and intent.

Magnets everywhere

Where BOTE tries to differentiate itself is with its MAGNEPOD ecosystem.

The Mule chairs feature dual magnetic mounting points built into the EVA foam armrests, allowing compatible drinkware, speakers and accessories to snap into place magnetically.

The system has been on BOTE’s paddleboards and floating products for a while now, but the Mule Series arguably makes the concept feel more useful day-to-day.

The chairs themselves are available in two formats. The Mule Dune Chair is a lower, beach-focused recliner with four seating positions, while the Mule Outpost Chair sits higher off the ground for campsites, tailgates and more traditional outdoor use.

Both support up to 300lbs and integrate into the wider carry setup using what BOTE calls the “Mule Bar Integration” system.

Price-wise, BOTE is actually more competitive than it first appears.

Buying two premium YETI chairs, a Camino tote, and a Roadie cooler separately could push beyond the Mule Experience pricing, especially once accessories are added.

Despite the more affordable price tag, BOTE's products look anything but flimsy, which might sway some YETI fans to try the company's setup instead.

The Mule Series Full Haul is available now at BOTE for $731, saving you $118 compared to full price.

You can choose among three setups: Dune (lower chairs), Outpost (taller chairs), and Mixed (one of each).

Simond has unveiled one of the lightest serious trekking shelters we’ve seen this year.

The brand is known primarily for climbing and mountaineering equipment, but it is now targeting the growing demand for trekking and backcountry gear, bringing its technical expertise to a broader category.

The new Sprint Tarp Tent 2P weighs just 620g in total, using Dyneema composite fabric to deliver a combination of minimal pack weight and high durability.

Despite tipping the scales well below those of most two-person backpacking shelters, it’s designed for proper mountain use, with a waterproof groundsheet rated up to 20,000mm and wind resistance tested to 70km/h in a wind tunnel.

The tent leads Simond’s new Sprint collection, one of two trekking ranges the brand is launching for 2026 as it expands beyond its mountaineering roots into backcountry exploration.

The range is designed for ultralight, efficiency-driven trekking and aimed at experienced hikers who want a minimalist setup without sacrificing performance.

Alongside the Sprint, the Wilder collection takes the opposite route, offering shelters for longer, more remote expeditions, focusing on durability, comfort, and full autonomy in unpredictable conditions.

Both collections share the same underlying philosophy, combining technical performance with a reduced environmental impact while pushing to make reliable mountain gear more accessible.

A tent that pushes ultralight further

Back to that tent. The Sprint Tarp Tent 2P is a single-wall design that relies on trekking poles for structure, keeping weight and packed volume down to a minimum (just 2 litres).

It’s built using Dyneema composite fabric, a material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, often seen in premium ultralight gear.

Despite its stripped-back design, the shelter features dual vestibules, a maximum inner height of 115cm, and a shape that maintains livability while remaining compact.

The company says it underwent extensive lab and field testing, including multi-week treks on routes such as the Haute Route des Pyrénées and the Pacific Crest Trail, where reliability matters far more than spec sheets.

A full ultralight system

Other highlights from the Sprint collection include the MT900 ultralight backpack, which offers 50 litres of capacity at just 880g, and a ventilated, tensioned-mesh back system designed for long-distance comfort.

The Sprint Ultralight Trekking Sleeping Bag comes in at 665g (bag only) with 900 cuin goose down insulation, while the alternative Sprint quilt drops weight further by removing the hood and zip, prioritising modularity and pack efficiency.

The collection also includes fully-repairable carbon trekking poles weighing 184g per unit, while the MT900 Insulating Mat balances low weight with a four-season-ready R-value of 5.4.

Built for harsher environments

For those heading deeper into the wild, the Wilder collection offers a more traditional, durability-first setup.

The MT900 tunnel tent, for example, weighs 2.08kg and is designed to withstand stormy conditions, with a double-wall construction, wind resistance up to 70km/h and a more spacious interior layout for extended use.

Backpacks in this range increase carrying capacity and robustness, while sleep systems incorporate recycled materials to reduce environmental impact without compromising warmth or performance.

Simond is rolling out the new collections in stages, with the Wilder range and select Sprint gear already available, followed by the ultralight tent in May.

If you’re looking for an efficient, low-cost fridge-freezer for your camping travels, you might not find a more suitable budget model than the BougeRV CRD2 40L dual zone portable we’re reviewing here.

Whether it’s a standard passive model from the likes of YETI and Coleman or a genuine portable fridge-freezer like the classy EcoFlow Glacier Classic we reviewed in 2025, there’s a plethora of best coolers for camping on the market.

But I’ve got to say that this new BougeRV may well be one of the most versatile and best-value models I’ve come across, even if its temperature stats aren’t the most accurate.

BougeRV CRD2 40L Dual Zone Portable Fridge Freeer review

Price and availability

The BougeRV CRD2 is available in the UK in two sizes: the 40L (43QT) version under review and a 49-litre model for those with bigger aspirations.

If you live in the UK, you can purchase the BougeRV CRD2 40L direct from BougeRV for a very reasonable £239.99 or, if purchasing from Amazon, the standard retail price of £329.99.

If you’re shopping Stateside, head straight to BougeRV, where this 43QT option retails at $309.99, or try Amazon for the same price. And if you wish to go large, you can purchase either the 52QT version for $349.99 or the whopping 61QT variant for $399.99.

Specifications

• Capacity: 40L (43QT) / 49L /57L
• Dual zone: Yes
• Temperature Range: -20°C to 20°C (-4°F - 68°F)
• Capacity: 60 cans (330 ml)
• Size: 73 x 46.1 x 43.8cm (28.7 x 18.14 x 17.24in)
• Weight: 19kgs / 41.9 lbs
• Wheels: Yes
• Pull handle: Yes
• Power consumption: +/- 55W
• Built in battery: Optional
• Max Solar Power: 100W
• Warranty: 2 years

Design and features

When it comes to camping or van life, nothing beats having a proper compressor fridge to hand. And if that fridge just so happens to also have a freezer zone, well, so much the better.

Yes, you could get by with a top-quality passive cooler from YETI or Coleman for a couple of days using just ice, but when that ice melts, your food and drink end up floating in iced water. And then you need to find more ice from somewhere.

And that isn’t always practical. Likewise, any passive cooler’s stated capacity is vastly reduced the moment you quarter-fill it with ice.

A two-zone 12V fridge freezer like the BougeRV CRD2, on the other hand, will stay on ad infinitum if your pitch has an electricity supply. And if it doesn’t, you also have the option to power the CRD2 via the best portable station, especially if used in cahoots with a solar panel.

Alternatively, this model can stay fully powered for up to 10 hours using its optional 100Ah LiFePO4 battery (£195), which you could keep topped up with a BougeRV solar panel. In essence, the solar panel charges the battery, which in turn powers the fridge. I unfortunately never received the battery for this review, so I can't say much more about it.

I’ve reviewed quite a few portable 12V fridges over the years – including the premium and therefore rather pricey EcoFlow Glacier Classic (£600, £629 with 40-hour battery) – but I think this model offers the best bang for your buck, to coin a hackneyed term.

At 73cm in length, 46.1cm in depth and 43.8cm in height, and a reasonable 19kgs (41.9lbs) in weight, the CRD2 isn't too large for the boot or too heavy to lift out of the car when using its two heavy-duty retractable side handles.

Once it's on the ground, you can simply unlock the long aluminium extension handle and pull it along on its small but rugged wheels. This is an especially handy feature because once the BougeRV CRD2 is full of goodies, its weight increases dramatically.

Having wheels and a proper handle to hand means you can wheel it a fair old distance without too much effort. And that makes it a great day-long picnic choice, too, especially if used with its optional battery.

While the BougeRV CRD2 would look more at home on an American campsite or out in the wilds, backwoods, backcountry, whatever you want to call it, I'm rather smitten by its rugged RV-style appearance and overall build quality, which feels tough and well put together.

However, the casing’s dark colour does get hot in direct sunlight, which suggests the compressor will need to work harder if the unit is left out in the sun.

The BougeRV CRD2 normally retails at around £240 without the optional battery and £350 with the battery. For this fairly meagre sum, you get a very decent 40 litres (43 QT) of packing space, divided into two sections – on the left, a large zone of approximately 32.5 L replete with a drainage plug, and on the right, a much smaller 7.2 L zone, each with its own internal LED lamp.

According to the blurb, this model will hold up to 60 330ml cans of pop or a wide range of camping ingredients, including all the essentials like water, soft drinks, beer, milk, and butter. Furthermore, the lids for both zones can be easily switched around to open from the other side by simply unclipping and refitting them.

You can configure these two zones any which way, whether both are used for refrigeration at around 3˚C, both are used for freezing (down to the unit's advertised 20˚C) or as a fridge/freezer combination of either.

If used as a double-zone fridge, I would suggest the larger zone for drinks, milk, etc., and the smaller zone for stuff like butter, sausages, ham, bacon, tomatoes, and anything else you don't want to be rummaging around for.

The BougeRV CRD2's side-mounted interface isn't the slickest in town, but it's very easy to get the hang of and features two sets of temperature controls, one for each zone, along with a Settings button to engage Eco mode, which is designed to conserve power by optimising the compressor's performance.

In essence, it operates at a lower power consumption (typically less than 45W) compared to 55-60W in normal mode. Eco is ideal for running the fridge on internal battery power or via a power station, solar panels or when ambient temperatures are cooler.

In Eco mode, the internal temperatures will likely fluctuate more than in the normal Max mode, though not too negatively so.

Heading to the power points on the side, you get an AC input, a DC input (with supplied cable for running it off the car’s cigarette lighter socket), a solar input and two USB-C outputs for charging small devices.

One big bonus with this model is that it is app-compatible, so you can also control the unit from afar. This remote method is especially pertinent when fiddling around in the Settings section, which can be quite fiddly if using the unit's interface.

Aside from selecting Eco or Max and your favourite temperature unit (°C/°F), the settings function also features a battery protection option for those using their car to power the fridge.

If, say, you've plugged the fridge into your car's cigarette lighter, and you don't have the engine running (always a risky procedure), you can choose how low you want the car's 12V battery to go before the fridge shuts down to save it from completely discharging, and therefore not starting the engine.

Is this model as well insulated as the best YETI? I very much doubt it, but as long as you keep it running, it will stay chilled for the entire trip.

Performance

I admit to not having taken this fridge on a camping trip yet, but I have run extensive tests at home and have been mostly impressed, even though its internal temperatures are off the mark when checked against a pair of calibrated fridge thermometers.

I'm running a final test as I write, with the large zone set to 3˚C and the smaller zone to -10˚C. With both cavities’ internal ambient temperatures currently around 16˚C, it will be interesting to see how quickly they drop and how accurately the unit's thermal sensor perceives them.

In the meantime, one of my earlier tests coincided with the task of finding somewhere to store six bags of frozen hash browns and sausages for a breakfast day in our village hall, and the BougeRV CRD2 came to the rescue.

It was already on when I filled it and started the test at around 7 pm. I set the large zone to its lowest minimum temperature of -20˚C and the smaller zone to 5˚C because I'd left it empty.

I'd say it took most of the evening for the larger hash browns zone to reach -13˚C according to the fridge's own thermometer, but by the morning the interface showed it had attained an acceptable -18˚C.

However, my own fridge thermometer begged to differ, showing -16 °C. So, on evidence of this test alone, the BougeRV CRD2 can be off by a few degrees. Also, it never actually reached -20˚C on the interface. The smaller zone, however, fared much better, reaching 5˚C on the unit and 5.9˚C on the fridge thermometer.

Had this been a home fridge, I might have been a bit concerned by this result, especially for the freezer section, which is normally around -19˚C for a home fridge.

I see no real issue with this temperature anomaly for something used for camping. Even its lowest true temperature of around -16˚C is more than enough for camping or outdoor use – unless you're on an extraordinarily long camping stint of more than three months, the safe storage period for most frozen foods is -19˚C.

But back to the current test, the one with the large zone set to 3˚C and the smaller zone to -10˚C. After 60 minutes of being on, the fridge is displaying 3˚C, but the thermometer is displaying a strange 6˚C, while on the freezer side, the interface is displaying -10˚C as set and -8.9˚C on the thermometer.

Now, some users may freak out at these erratic figures, but I'm mindful that it's a budget fridge freezer, and this is the type of inconsistent performance I would expect from such a unit. It just means that when I'm camping, I would personally set the main fridge section to around 1˚ or 2˚C and make adjustments if necessary (a dedicated fridge thermometer helps with this).

Likewise, if using the freezer compartment, I would set it to the full -20˚C mark for extra safety, knowing it would likely hover around -16˚ to -18˚C after several hours on, even if it's hot outside. You basically get what you pay for, and, in this regard, I still maintain you're getting a very decent product for the money.

Verdict

The BougeRV CRD2 40L is an admirably practical piece of refrigeration kit that’s tailor-made for life out in the great wide open. The ability to run the fridge and freezer compartments simultaneously is a major boon for campers and van-lifers, while its extendable handle, rear wheels, app control, and the ability to run off AC mains or a power station, DC from the car, a solar panel, or the optional battery add further appeal.

While the inconsistent temperature readings suggest it was built to a certain price point, I don’t think this matters much in the grand scheme of things. I still maintain that, if you’re in the market for a low-cost 12V fridge-freezer, the BougeRV CRD2 40L remains a very decent contender.

Katadyn has launched the Optimus Gemini II, a compact dual-burner stove that looks ready to challenge the likes of Primus in the growing market for more capable outdoor cooking systems.

Designed to deliver “real cooking” in the wild, the Gemini II ditches the bulky suitcase-style format typically associated with dual-burner stoves and instead opts for a fold-flat design that’s far easier to pack.

At 760g, it’s not ultralight by backpacking standards, but it’s noticeably more portable than most two-burner setups.

The Gemini II is more capable than the single-burner systems many hikers rely on, but significantly less cumbersome than traditional camp kitchen stoves, making it a viable option for everything from base camps to vehicle-supported adventures.

A different take on dual-burner cooking

The Gemini II features two independently controlled burners, each capable of producing up to 4,600 watts, allowing you to cook multiple dishes at once or manage heat more precisely.

A built-in pressure control valve helps maintain consistent performance under changing conditions, and stability is improved when cooking in exposed environments thanks to the integrated wind protection and low-profile frame.

Boil times sit at around four minutes per litre, which is solid rather than class-leading, but the emphasis here is clearly on control rather than outright speed.

The rise of more considered outdoor cooking has been hard to ignore in recent years, with brands like Primus and Snow Peak pushing gear that enables more than just freeze-dried meals.

With over 160 minutes of burn time from a 450g gas canister and a compact footprint, the Gemini II is for campers who want to prepare proper meals outdoors without committing to a full camp kitchen setup.

And while Katadyn isn’t chasing ultralight credentials here, the Gemini II is manufactured in Europe and positioned as a durable, long-term piece of kit rather than a minimalist solution.

The Optimus Gemini II retails for $200 / £200 (€170 / AU$280), and is available now from third-party retailers such as Ultralight Outdoor Gear.

What a time to be a backpacker. Gear is getting lighter and more technical with each passing season, and nowhere are the gains more noticeable than in sleeping pads.

Sea to Summit’s new year announcement that it was updating its sleep system wasn’t so much a U-turn as the logical evolution for a brand that’s proven itself a leader in lightweight gear over the past few decades.

As a frequent backpacker, every comfortable night I can get on the trail means more energy for hiking the next day, but I like moving fast without a heavy pack to weigh me down.

So hearing that the Aussie brand planned to release a pad that was lighter and more packable than the already excellent Ether Light XT Extreme pad, yet still warm enough for three seasons, was music to my ears.

How were they going to achieve this without making the pad shorter, you ask? According to the brand, it’s all down to an update on its long-running Air Sprung Cell construction, which uses individual air-filled cells (151 of them in this case) instead of the horizontal or vertical baffles you’re probably used to.

The brand says the new-and-improved “dot-weld geometry “helps you feel more stable than you might have experienced on other ultralight mats. That should translate into a better night’s sleep, but does it? I took it out for some wild camping in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park in Scotland to find out.

Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Insulated Air Sleeping Mat review

Price and availability

The Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Sleeping Mat is available in Small, Regular and Large sizes, with prices starting at £140 / $149 for the Small size, going up to £160 for the Large size, which I tested. Here in the UK, you may be able to find it cheaper at Alpine Trek or Cotswold Outdoor.

The recommended retail price is substantially cheaper than the brand’s previous ultralight release, the Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Mat, although it’s important to note that that mat is built for four-season use and is substantially thicker. But if you’re not planning on camping in winter, keep reading.

Design and materials

This inflatable sleeping mat uses three key technologies to ensure a successful night’s sleep. The brand’s trademark Air Sprung Cell technology is designed to improve your weight distribution and eliminate pressure points, and that’s especially good news for us side sleepers who are tired of feeling our hips digging into the ground.

It keeps you warm when you’re sleeping on cold ground, thanks to ThermalCore insulation with a reflective layer that boosts the R-value to 3.6. And finally, the Hybrid 30D/40D fabric is durable and has been treated with an antimicrobial agent to help keep it from getting funky. Better yet, some of these materials are recycled and bluesign-approved for a lighter carbon footprint.

My pad arrived packed away in a stuff sack measuring 22cm x 10.5cm / 8.6in x 4in, which isn’t as tiny as my Big Agnes Rapide SL sleeping pad, but a little digging revealed that the smaller size is comparable to that one, at just 19cm x 10cm / 7.5in x 3.9in. Mine is still small enough to fit in my Yeti Skala 32L backpack along with my camping quilt and tent, so whatever size you buy, I think you’ll be happy with its packability.

At 590g for the Large (small is 450g), it’s quite a bit lighter than the Ether Light XR and comparable to my Big Agnes pad. Despite the name, that doesn’t necessarily place it in the lightest sleeping pad ever category – the Thermarest NeoAir XLite NXT comes in at only 370g, and there are even lighter ones on the market – but it’s not a weight that’s going to make or break your trek.

The stuff sack has an integrated inflation system, a feature that is becoming increasingly common in backpacking pads, and it works surprisingly well. It has a nozzle that attaches to the inflation valve. You can simply breathe (not blow) into the sack, then use your hands to squeeze the air into the pad.

This takes all the effort out of inflating your pad, works quickly, and apparently reduces moisture inside the pad to help keep mould at bay. If this all sounds a little high tech, don’t worry: there are instructions on the inflation sack to guide you through it all.

The inflation valve has two settings, one for inflating and another for deflating, so when you’re ready to break down camp, you just pull the valve to deflate, all the air whooshes out, and it’s reasonably easy to fold it back up and get it back into its carry sack without too much drama.

Finally, it’s fitted with the PillowLock system, which keeps your Sea to Summit Aeros Pillow securely in place if you have one. I don’t have this pillow, so I wasn't able to test this feature, but I think it’s a nice and useful bonus.

Inflation process

Now that I’ve tried this inflation system a few times on different mats, I’ve come to really appreciate it. Yes, you can just blow the old-fashioned way, but if you don’t want to get lightheaded, this is a great option.

Both times I’ve camped with this pad, it took me between 15 and 20 breaths to inflate, or a couple of minutes max. It reaches a point where I can’t squeeze any more air into it, and at that stage, it doesn’t look fully inflated to me, but one or two puffs directly into the valve do the trick.

Performance and comfort

When I first inflated this mat, I’ll admit that it didn’t look super promising. It doesn’t lie flat when it’s inflated, and this gives the impression of it not being a very refined product, but I was pleased to discover that when I lie down, this in no way hinders my comfort.

This mat is 6.5cm / 2.5in thick when inflated, which isn’t the thickest pad around, but it is really comfortable, and I noticed the welcome stability. Sometimes you feel like you’re rocking around on a 1980s waterbed on camping mats, but this one is much more akin to sleeping on a regular mattress at home.

I sleep on all four sides, and no part of my body was ever touching the ground except for my knees when I was on all fours packing my kit away in the morning. Even then, when I sat back on my heels, I noticed that my knees and shins were no longer touching.

I tested a Large, but I’m actually quite small, which is cheating a bit, so I made my six-foot, broad-shouldered boyfriend give it a shot, and he was pretty happy with the amount of available real estate.

I’d probably go for a small pad if I were choosing it myself, since that would be lighter, but the upside of the Large is that it took up every square inch of my one-person backpacking tent, and that meant no part of me ever found itself dangling off the side. I might be onto something here.

I’ve tested this in early spring weather. Once night was unusually mild, and the other was cool, but I’ve had no problems staying warm enough.

It’s not a completely silent pad, but I wouldn’t describe it as especially noisy or rustly when I move around on it.

Verdict

The Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Insulated Air Sleeping Mat balances comfort and packability with weight and packability admirably. On those specs alone, you’ll find others that appear to be similar, but where this pad shines is in its stability, which means your sleep will feel a little less rocky.

It’s also not the thickest pad on the market, but the cell construction means no part of your body touches the earth, and that’s all that matters. It’s easily warm enough for three-seasons and well-priced, so if you’re looking to upgrade your sleep system with something reliably comfortable, this is the pad for you.

Sleeping bags have become increasingly technical over the years, but comfort hasn’t always kept pace.

Anyone who’s wrestled with a snagging zip in the middle of the night or tried to cool down without fully unzipping a mummy bag will know the struggle.

Outdoor specialist Marmot thinks it has a solution, and it's not messing about, either.

The brand’s new Wraptor sack removes the zip entirely, replacing it with a system of overlapping flaps secured by magnetic closures and snaps.

Instead of being locked into one position, you can adjust the packable sleeping bag more naturally, opening it up for airflow or sealing it in for warmth without the usual all-or-nothing feel.

Marmot isn't the first brand to have a crack at the zipless sleeping bag design.

Sierra Design's 800 20 is similarly zip-free but lacks the magnetic closure and removes some of the insulation at the back to reduce weight.

A different way to sleep outdoors

The Wraptor is designed to feel less restrictive than traditional mummy bags, which often prioritise thermal efficiency over freedom of movement.

Marmot’s flap-based construction allows you to sleep on your side, back or stomach without fighting the fabric, and you can even lie on top of the flaps in warmer conditions.

To regulate your temperature, you can simply shift the flaps or use the envelope-style foot vent to release heat from the bottom of the bag.

The Wraptor is designed to handle a range of conditions, with options available in both 650-fill-power down and Marmot’s HL-ElixR Eco synthetic insulation.

HL-ElixR Eco is made from recycled fibres and designed to retain warmth even in damp conditions, making it a more forgiving option for unpredictable weather.

The shell and lining are made from 100% recycled materials, and the bag comes with a compression sack for easier packing.

Temperature ratings span 15°F, 20°F and 30°F (-9°C, -6°C and -1°C, respectively) models, making it suitable for everything from cooler alpine trips to more relaxed weekend camping.

The Wraptor is now available directly from Marmot, with prices starting at $189 (£141 / €162 / AU$269).

YETI has expanded its outdoor seating lineup with the new Trailhead Field Chair, a more portable alternative to the brand’s bulkier Trailhead Camp Chair and Hondo Beach Chair.

Positioned as YETI’s lightest and most packable chair to date, the Field Chair introduces a quad-fold aluminium frame that collapses down to a slim enough size to fit into an included carry bag.

Not quite ultralight territory

Don't be alarmed, though; despite the “packable” push, the Trailhead Field Chair is very much a YETI product through and through and displays the hallmarks that make the brand so popular among people who appreciate sturdiness.

As such, the new camping chair isn’t a direct rival to the featherweight designs typically associated with Helinox, such as the Chair Zero LT.

The folded profile may be slimmer than previous YETI chairs, but the overall build still leans towards durability and comfort over true minimalism.

The chair uses Twilite, YETI’s proprietary UV-resistant, synthetic woven fabric with high tensile strength and controlled flex, and is rated to support up to 350lbs.

Continuing the long-standing tradition of giving every feature a name, even the chair's feet were christened GroundGrip and are said to provide stability on uneven terrain.

A more mobile YETI

The design itself is noticeably stripped back compared to the brand’s other chairs.

There are no armrests, helping reduce bulk and weight, and the carry bag comes included for easier transport, something that hasn’t always been a given with YETI accessories.

That said, not everything is bundled in. The cup holder, shown in some of the product imagery, is sold separately, which feels like a familiar move from a brand that rarely misses an opportunity to upsell accessories – boo-hoo.

The Trailhead Field Chair is available at YETI US and YETI UK in two colours, black and tan, and is priced at $225 / 225, making it the most affordable chair in YETI’s current lineup, even if it still sits firmly in premium territory.

Welcome to T3’s review of the Nortent Vern 1, an exceptional sub-£500, all-year tent for adventurous soloists, bikepackers and off-road 4x4 fans.

As a keen camping gear junky and self-professed tent nerd, I simply can’t get enough of the stuff, and in the Vern 1, I think I may have found the best-value, one-person, 4-season shelter on the market.

This tent has been designed and manufactured to withstand most of Mother Nature’s wrath, which is why it’s proved so resoundingly popular amongst solo campers who clearly enjoy the challenge of surviving alone, on top of a mountain in a Force 8 gale.

Is it a prime contender for a high-ranking slot in our esteemed guide to the best backpacking tents? Most certainly so.

Nortent Vern 1 all-season tent review

Price and availability

The Nortent Vern 1 is so in demand that it is currently only available for pre-order while the Chinese factory plays catch-up. If you live in the UK, you can pre-order the Vern 1 direct from Nortent for around £450, including shipping, import and VAT duties, or head to Valley and Peak, where this tent sells for a pre-order price of £497.99.

Although the Vern 1 is listed on Amazon USA, it appears to be unavailable at the time of writing, suggesting it has also sold out in the US. However, I would keep checking, because things can change overnight.

Specifications

• Seasons: 4-season
• Style: Dome/tunnel
• Sleeps: 1.5
• Pack size: 40 x 19cm (15.7 x 7.4in)
• Packed weight: 2.88kgs (6.34lb)
• Floor area: 1.9 m² (20.5 ft²)
• Height: 100cm (39.37in)
• Length: 260cm (102.36in)
• Width: 200cm (78.74in)
• Canopy Fabric: 30D Ripstop Silnylon
• Floor fabric: 70D nylon 
• Bag Fabric: 70D Ripstop Silnylon
• Rainfly Hydrostatic Head: 3,500mm
• Floor Hydrostatic Head: 10,000 mm
• Poles: 3 x 9.5mm 7001 series aluminium (780 g)
• Guylines: Dyneema 10 pieces

Pitching process

When you arrive at your pitch in the driving rain, and the wind’s blowing a hooley, you need a freestanding tent that not only pitches inner and outer at the same time, but does so with minimal fuss and zero chance of it blowing away mid-pitch. The Nortent Vern 1 is one such tent.

This model comes in a slightly oversized and handsomely attired storm-proof bag, and its pitching process is almost identical to that of the Hilleberg Soulo. Start by pegging out the rectangular footprint to establish the tent’s orientation into the wind. Now unfurl its three elasticated aluminium poles (two long, one short) and feed the shortest one into the short sleeves on either side of the tent’s centre region.

Next, grab both long poles and feed them into the remaining sleeves from one corner to the other, making sure to run them parallel. I initially made the mistake of installing them diagonally because that’s how they looked in the images. Don’t do this, or you could deform a pole.

Now that the poles are in position, simply walk in circles around the tent while gradually attaching the myriad of clips on the outer fly to their nearest adjacent pole. You should now have a taut dome-like structure that’s ready to be pegged. If camping at a higher altitude, I would suggest pegging all 18 guy points and lines in case the weather worsens.

In the realm of tent-pitching processes, you might not find an easier system than this. Just be sure to properly locate the six pole sleeves and attach every single tent clip and you’re good to go.

Overall design

Norwegian tent builder Nortent has very quickly become one of the backpacking world’s most talked-about brands. And justifiably so because, on evidence of the popular Vern 1 we’re looking at here, the company has really pushed the envelope in terms of design, materials, features and, above all, price.

This 2025 variant of the original Nortent Vern is a far cry from its predecessor and better in almost every respect. In fact, were it not for the much higher price of the similarly styled gold-standard Hilleberg Soulo I reviewed in 2025, it would be a choice that’s too close to call.

It hasn’t escaped me that the Vern 1’s pole design and pitching process are uncannily similar to that of the Hilleberg, so putting it up and taking it down is as easy as pie, even in the wildest of conditions.

Combining minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics with exemplary structural strength, this model impresses with its low-profile tunnel-style geometry, taut fabric design to reduce flapping and annoying noise in blustery conditions, and carefully balanced proportions that prioritise storm stability without sacrificing usable internal space.

Moreover, since the Vern 1 is freestanding and relatively narrow, you can easily position it into the wind for improved aerodynamics and added stability before pegging it down. In short, it’s one of the most innovative and spacious one-person tents I’ve ever had the pleasure of reviewing.

I especially love the Vern 1’s twin-door design. In fact, it was the prospect of having two side-by-side doors that attracted me to this tent in the first place. When you unzip both doors on either side of its centre pole, the outer fly provides a wide and almost entirely unobstructed view, which, for me, is an essential ingredient for any tent.

After all, you’ve headed out into the most beautiful part of the countryside and pitched your tent in an area with the best possible view, so why not make the most of it and be able to sit under cover while enjoying the magnificent vista before you? I should add that the Vern 1 also comes with an unusually large vestibule area for cooking with due care or storing extra gear.

Aesthetic subtlety is another notable aspect of the Vern 1’s design. With its dark military green outer and understated branding, this tent blends naturally into the landscape, and that’s a bonus when pitching in permitted areas with ramblers and other campers in the vicinity. Instead of shouting ‘look at my bright new tent’, it simply melds into the background without drawing attention to itself.

Build quality

The Vern 1’s outer flysheet – which hugs the ground like almost all 4-season tents – is comprised of a swathe of sturdy 30D Ripstop Silnylon with Dyneema-reinforced stress points. This outer has a perfectly robust 3,000mm hydrostatic head for protection against the heaviest rain.

The 70D floor fabric, meanwhile, provides more than enough protection against sharp stones and twigs while its 10,000mm hydrostatic head keeps all moisture at bay. However, I would personally invest in the optional footprint groundsheet for even better protection and reduced condensation when most of the vents are closed.

Heading to the poles, this model ships with three 9.5mm Nortent-branded aluminium poles that seem incredibly strong despite not coming from the trusted DAC stable. Like the Hilleberg Soulo, the poles are bedded into reinforced 10-inch-long sleeves at all four corners and along the sides for the shorter transverse pole.

All three poles are clipped, in turn, to a vast array of sturdy clips that produce an extremely taut shell boasting impressive rigidity in all weathers. And, like the Soulo, you can install a second set of poles if needed to make the tent strong enough to support an adult's weight. I know this because I’ve seen it demonstrated.

The Nortent Vern 1 comes with 18 high-quality aluminium Y-pegs, designed to secure the main tent body at six primary pegging points, plus an extensive guy line system comprising 10 durable Dyneema lines with clever elasticated cinches attached for easy storage when packing up.

Once everything’s in place, this tent is capable of withstanding winds in excess of 40mph, and I know this, too, because I have watched over a dozen videos of brave/foolish users living through a barrage of mountain-top storms with no leaks, tears or life-threatening damage to report.

That’s a testament to just how well this tent has been designed and built. Put another way, if you’re in the market for a ‘bombproof’ backpacker that has already proved itself umpteen times, the Nortent Vern 1 is a very worthy contender.

I should add at this juncture that the Nortent Vern 1 is nowhere near the lightest of backpacking tents. At 2.88kg (6.34lb) it’s quite a hefty package to carry when compared to some ultralight tents that tip the scales between 600g and 1.5kgs. But in its favour, the Vern 1 is comprised of materials designed for four-season camping in all weathers.

Interior design

The Vern 1’s inner tent measures approximately 260cm in length, 200cm in width and 100cm in height. I’m just 5’5” in height, and I can kneel in the centre with just the top of my hair brushing against the fabric. When I sit down, I have about three inches of headroom. That’s good enough for me.

Nortent advertises this model as a 1.5-person tent, and I’m inclined to agree. In terms of liveable space, I had no problems installing a 51×183cm Big Agnes Rapide SL insulated sleeping mat with plenty of additional floor space to one side for a backpack, clothing, shoes, etc.

I especially like the inner tent’s bright yellow lining and no-see-um mesh panels on the circular inner door which helps prevent insect entry while maintaining decent airflow during warmer conditions when a 4-season tent is usually at its least comfortable. The Vern 1 also comes with multiple storage pockets positioned for easy access when lying down, an integrated clothes line for drying damp socks and base layers, plus ceiling-mounted hooks for hanging up a couple of LED lamps.

Four-season tents are known for creating more condensation than their average 2- or 3-season counterparts, and this is mostly due to the fact that their outer fly sheets are nearly always flush with the ground to keep cold air out and prevent the influx of snowy spindrift.

As a result, 4-season tents tend to suffer more from condensation due to reduced ventilation, and this is something the Hilleberg Soulo has occasionally been accused of.

Thankfully, ventilation in this tent has been carefully integrated with adjustable floor-level triangular end vents that can be zipped closed if necessary or used with their integral mesh linings. The dual outer door, too, can be opened in multiple configurations for extra airflow.

In fact, even when it's pouring with rain, the left doorway's outward-facing window has a built-in rain peak to keep inclement weather out while increasing airflow when the top of the door is partially unzipped.

While no 4-season tent is completely devoid of condensation in colder weather, I think Nortent has done its homework and installed enough airflow measures into the Vern 1 to make it feel far less stuffy than others on the market.

Comfort and performance

I’ll admit to not testing this tent in the wilderness, though I did spend a night in it about 200m from home. Mind, as already mentioned, I have watched an inordinate amount of YouTube videos of this tent being run through the mill in the kind of weather no sane person would wish to endure.

I’ve seen users endure a night of sub-zero temperatures, raging winds with gusts in excess of 45mph and heavy snowfall in the Welsh and Scottish mountains, and I’ve been amazed at how well the Vern 1 has faired in the vast majority of bad weather events.

You won’t see many negative reviews of this tent, and, having had it in my hands for the past few weeks, I can see why, because I, too, have been blown away by how well the Vern 1 has been designed and built.

Granted, it would be an even bigger bonus were Nortent to strike a deal with premium pole maker DAC and have a set of the company’s made-to-measure poles included on its website for fans of the DAC brand, but I have to say that, on evidence of my own experience with erecting and disassembling this tent multiple times, the included Nortent-branded poles are holding their shape and doing the job they were designed for.

I can’t wait to hit the Welsh slopes in the next month or two when I can dip back into this article to let you know more about its performance in the wilderness. But for now, I’m happy to say that its overnight performance was exemplary.

Firstly, I loved the spacious feel and airy glow of its yellow inner lining, and I’ve also been impressed by the amount of ventilation and how warm it felt when hunkering down for the night. I’d say it was at least four to five degrees warmer than the ambient temperature.

For my relatively small stature, I had loads of space to move around in it, and I absolutely loved the surfeit of storage pockets, including the two triangular above-head nets for stowing a phone for instant reach.

For me, the best part of the Vern 1’s entire design is that airy double-door vestibule I mentioned above. I just love the fact that you can make the most of a fine view by having both doors open instead of being stuck in the porch looking out of a porthole. I’m especially looking forward to trying this open-air viewing area in finer weather, when I suspect the double doors will come into their own in terms of both outlook and ventilation.

For less than £500 on average, this tent is excellent value given its wind- and rain-resistant credentials. Yes, it’s heavier than many other backpacking models on the market, so you may not be able to travel as far without a few breathers on the way, but what price reliability and confidence when faced with the worst that nature can throw at you?

Verdict

The Nortent Vern 1 four‑season backpacking tent is an extremely robust solo shelter that prioritises strength and durability over ultralight minimalism.

While not the lightest one-person option on the shelves, it balances its few extra grams with genuine four-season protection, reassuring build quality, high-end design flair and generous interior space for any serious backpacker or 4x4 off-road camper looking for dependable performance in highly demanding conditions. Highly recommended.

Hydro Flask is stepping into one of the most style-driven corners of the outdoor gear market with its redesigned Carryout Cooler Collection.

And while the brand is better known for its insulated bottles rather than bags, this latest launch puts Hydro Flask in direct competition with cooler and drinkware giant YETI.

YETI’s Camino Carryall has become something of a cult favourite, blending tote aesthetics with rugged usability.

You can find it everywhere from beaches to boot camps, largely because Camino looks good while hauling just about anything.

A cooler that does more than carry

Hydro Flask’s new Carryout Cooler Totes follow a similar visual playbook, with structured sides and a clean, lifestyle-friendly silhouette.

It's available in 10L, 20L, or 30L capacities and has zippered front pockets for secure storage of quick-reach essentials.

Unlike YETI’s open carryall approach, Hydro Flask's totes are fully insulated soft coolers with a secure zip-top closure, leakproof welded liners and all-day cold retention when paired with an ice pack.

Hydro Flask is effectively merging a premium tote you’d happily carry anywhere with a performance cooler you’d rely on for food and drink.

The FlexClip strap system allows you to customise how the bag is carried, or remove straps entirely, while the structured body keeps everything upright and easy to access.

The main fabric is made from 100% recycled polyester and carries Bluesign certification, while the food-safe interior is easy to wipe clean.

It’s a more sustainability-led approach than most products in this space, which could give Hydro Flask an edge as buyers become more conscious of how their gear is made.

A full range built around the same idea

Beyond the totes, the wider Carryout range includes soft coolers in 10L, 15L and 30L sizes, as well as a 22L backpack version, all built around the same ergonomic, clamshell-opening design.

Pricing starts at $79.95 (~£60 / €70 / AU$113) for the Carryout Cooler Totes and goes up to $149.95 (~£113 / €131 / AU$213) for the Carryout Cooler Backpack, placing the collection firmly in premium territory alongside YETI rather than below it.

It’s an interesting approach, not trying to undercut its biggest rival, but with a greener build and sleeker design, Hydro Flask’s new collection has a strong chance of becoming one of 2026’s hottest outdoor bags.

Shop the new Carryout range at Hydro Flask US. Global prices and availability TBC.

Helinox has updated two of its most recognisable pieces of campsite furniture, introducing redesigned versions of the Sunset Chair and Beach Chair.

This comes only two weeks after the launch of the Chair Zero LT and Table Zero LT, which use GhostGrid fabric and weigh under 2lb combined, setting yet another benchmark for ultralight gear.

Now called the Sunset Chair (re) and Beach Chair (re), the new models introduce what Helinox calls (re) Tension Design, a system that adds a second tension line to better distribute weight across the frame and improve comfort.

The update builds on Helinox’s earlier Chair One (re) redesign, which introduced the brand’s “(re)” concept, a series of product updates focused on improving comfort, durability and sustainability without changing the packable designs the company is known for.

The Sunset Chair (re) retains the tall backrest that made the original popular with campers but now features longer leg poles, making it easier to get in and out while continuing to support the neck and shoulders during long evenings around camp.

Designed for sand and campsites

The Beach Chair (re) takes a different approach with its low seating position that keeps you closer to the ground, while splayed legs and flat feet help prevent the chair from sinking into sand, making it better suited to beaches and soft terrain.

The frames of both chairs are made from repurposed aluminium shavings that would otherwise be discarded, refined into alloy discs, and then formed into the structure.

Despite the updates, portability remains central to the design. Each chair packs into a compact carry case, weighs just over 3.5 lb (1,587 g) and supports up to 320 lb (145 kg) when assembled.

The Sunset Chair (re) and Beach Chair (re) are priced from $189.95 (~£142 / €165 / AU$268), with the Beach Chair also available in a fully ventilated mesh version priced at $209.95 (~£157 / €182 / AU$297).

Outdoor brand Coleman has unveiled what it says is the world’s first collapsible hard cooler, a design that could solve one of the most persistent annoyances in camping gear: storage.

Called the Snap ’N Go, the cooler combines the portability of a soft cool bag with the durability and insulation performance normally associated with rigid coolers.

When not in use, the unit collapses down to roughly one-third of its full size, allowing it to slide into cupboards, car boots or campervan storage compartments far more easily than a traditional hard cooler.

That might sound like a small tweak, but it addresses a problem many outdoor enthusiasts know well.

When good insulation meets bad storage

Hard coolers are excellent at keeping food and drinks cold for days, yet their bulky, fixed shape makes them awkward to store in small homes, vans or flats.

Premium brands such as YETI have helped popularise the category in recent years, with rugged coolers like the YETI Roadie 32 built for long trips and tough environments.

The downside is that these types of coolers often take up just as much space in the garage or boot as they do on the campsite.

Coleman’s approach attempts to bridge that gap by expanding from storage mode to full size in under 10 seconds, snapping into a rigid structure ready to be loaded with ice, food and drinks.

Collapsible, but not compromised

Despite the portability gains, performance appears to be on par with conventional cool boxes.

The largest 55QT model (52-litre capacity) can keep ice frozen for up to 55 hours, while the 45QT version offers up to 50 hours of cooling, and the 35QT model maintains cold temperatures for up to 36 hours.

Inside, the cooler features a removable TPU liner designed to provide leakproof protection and make cleaning easier after use.

The liner also includes an antibacterial treatment to help prevent bacterial growth and keep the interior fresh between trips.

Side handles allow the cooler to be carried horizontally when loaded, while the flattened, collapsed shape makes it easier to transport or store vertically when empty.

Coleman says the cooler was developed in response to consumer research highlighting the challenges many people face when storing bulky outdoor gear in smaller homes or vehicles.

The collapsible design aims to make it easier to keep a cooler on hand without sacrificing valuable storage space.

The Snap ’N Go range launches in three sizes (35QT, 45QT and 55QT) with UK pricing starting at £129.99 (~$174 / €151 / AU$245) and rising to £189.99 (~$254 / €220 / AU$358) for the largest model.

For more info, visit Coleman UK.

Welcome to T3’s review of the Jackery Explorer 500 V2, an easy-to-carry 500W portable power station for outdoor activities as well as a home emergency backup for low-draw appliances and devices.

Having recently given five glowing stars to the excellent Bluetti Elite 30 V2, Jackery now enters the fray with a similarly specced unit aimed at users who prioritise increased battery capacity and longer running times over app connectivity and the ability to run higher-draw appliances above its 500W rating.

Let’s take a closer look at the Explorer 500 V2.

Jackery Explorer 500 V2 portable power station review

Price and availability

In the UK, the Jackery Explorer 500 V2’s official retail price was a whopping £449 but it’s now available for a more reasonable £269 from Jackery and Amazon.

In the USA, the Explorer 500 V2 is available direct from Jackery ($449) or $359 from Amazon and Walmart.

Specifications

• Power output: 500W
• Battery capacity: 512Wh
• Max surge power: 1,000W
• Battery cell chemistry: LiFePO (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
• Battery cycle life: 6,000
• AC outputs: 2 x 230V, 16.7A
• UPS auto switch: <10ms
• USB outputs: 2 x USB-C 100W + 30W; 2 x USB-A 18W
• DC outputs: 1 x 12v 10A
• AC input: 230V, 10A
• DC/Solar input: 16-60V,10.5A, 200W
• Charging time: Around 1.3 hours
• Dimensions: 31.1×20.5×15.7cm
• Weight: 5.7kg (12.57lbs)
• Storage Temperature: -20℃ to 45℃ (-4℉ to 113℉)
• Warranty: 5 years

Design and features

As small-form portable power stations go, the Jackery Explorer 500 v2 makes a persuasive first impression with its clean toolbox design, fold-down carry handle, twin AC outlets, gaggle of USB ports, obligatory 12v 10amp DC output and bright LED lamp.

At 31.1×20.5×15.7cm and a reasonable 5.7kg in weight, the new 500 is significantly smaller (by 30%) and lighter than its popular predecessor, making it easy to lift and carry with one hand, fit into a car boot or stow along with your camping accoutrements without it swallowing precious space.

For the front panel, you get a straightforward layout of ports and a rectangular two-inch LCD screen, which is pretty small by today’s standards.

This display doesn’t overwhelm the user with fancy graphics, but in many ways I wish it did, because the interface doesn’t give the user any info on the hours remaining when using the device, and I think that’s a major oversight.

Also, when I powered my MacBook Air M3 during a four-hour power outage, the screen showed zero output, as if it was too low a wattage to register. Odd.

Another thing this model lacks is both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can’t view or operate it via the Jackery app, change any settings or initiate firmware updates, which often improve a product’s functionality.

But perhaps that was Jackery’s thinking all along – to build a simplified and extremely intuitive battery power unit for users who don’t want to wade through app menus, voltage options and other complex technical parameters.

On the connectivity front, you get two 230V AC outlets, two USB-C ports (100W and 30W), a standard 18W USB-A port and a 12V 10-amp car socket for powering up a myriad of lower-wattage camping devices and, on the side, Jackery’s unique DC8020 input for attaching solar panels up to 200W output.

I say unique because Jackery is the only power station manufacturer to use DC8020 connectors for solar panel connection, when almost every other PS manufacturer uses an XT60 connector with an MC4 adapter from the solar panel.

Granted, Jackery’s portable SolarSaga range of foldable solar panels is a perfect match for its power stations (their 200W panel will charge the Explorer 500 V2 in about 2.8 hours), but if you wanted to use a different brand of solar panel, you’d need to buy a hard-to-find MC4 to DC8020 adaptor.

You can obviously also charge this model via the mains in about 75 minutes or a car’s 12-volt cigarette lighter port in six hours.

The Explorer 500 V2 has a power rating of 500W, a good battery capacity of 512Wh and an unadvertised surge peak feature of up to 1,000W.

While it’s a great option for camping and UPS emergency internet, TV and lighting backup use (it switches over in the obligatory 10ms), it can’t match the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 for sheer power and versatility.

Unlike the excellent Bluetti, which lowers the current of power-ravenous devices of up to 1.5kW in output so they can run continuously, this model’s surge peak feature is just for kick-starting devices that draw extra power when starting up before they settle down to more modest power consumption.

Since some power tools typically consume two to three times the power their continuous operating wattage suggests, this model may not be the best solution for outdoor DIY projects.

On the plus side, the Explorer 500 V2’s LiFePO4 battery boasts an impressive 6,000-cycle life, and the whole shebang comes with a generous 5-year warranty.

However, it only comes with an orange AC cable and an operating manual, but no DC cigarette charger for boosting the battery while driving.

Performance

I love the size, shape, styling and low-ish weight of the Explorer 500 V2. However, while it sports better battery capacity than one of its closest competitors, the Bluetti Elite 30 V2, it can’t match the Bluetti for outright power-to-weight and app connectivity. It also costs £90 more than the Bluetti.

I’ve written this entire review using the Explorer V2 because we have had no power for the past four hours while our village’s main transformer is being changed.

Admittedly, I’ve only been using my MacBook Air M3 with it, but so far it says there’s still a healthy 80% of battery capacity remaining, and that's pretty decent in my book.

However, I wish I could tell how much use I’d get in hours and minutes, but, as mentioned above, Jackery opted to omit that kind of info on the unit’s interface.

I have, however, tested it using my 800W to 1.8kW Meaco blow heater in low-power mode. Sadly, unlike the 600W Bluetti Elite 30 V2 that ran the heater without issue when switched to the lower 800W setting, the Explorer 500 V2’s inverter cut out after just 41 seconds.

I also noticed that the AC output light didn’t switch off immediately to let the user know the AC inverter was no longer functioning, which meant anything else plugged into the power station – like a phone, tablet, or an important CPAP machine – would also stop receiving electricity.

The upshot is that you would need to keep a lid on pushing this model much beyond its stated 500W output, and, in an ideal world, only use devices you know are well below 500W; otherwise, you may be disappointed with its performance.

Nevertheless, as a no-frills outdoor workhorse for most camping gear like air tent pumps, small camping kettles, and other light-duty tasks like phone, laptop, drone, and tablet charging, the Jackery Explorer 500 V2 is still worth investigation. No, it’s not as versatile as the Bluetti Elite 30 V2, but its battery will last longer between charges.

What devices will the Jackery Explorer 500 V2 handle?

The Explorer 500 V2 has a power output of 500W and a power surge rate of around 1,000W that will power a decent tranche of smaller devices and appliances around the home and outdoors. Here’s a list of some examples:

HOME BACKUP:

WiFi router (around 10W) = 30 hrs

TV system with Sky Q box and sound bar (around 127W) = up to 3 hrs

LED table lamp (27W) = 19 hrs

Apple iMac M4 = up to 3 hours depending on usage

Apple MacBook Pro M4 laptop computer 4 times

NAS storage (20W) =1.137 BTUs/min 5 hrs

CPAP machine for sleep-related breathing disorders (around 15W) = 16.8 hrs

500W Fan heater = 0.8 hrs

Small electric kettle (500W) = 0.8 hrs

CAMPING & OUTDOORS:

Diesel heater (around 30W) = 10.5 hrs

Ecoflow Glacier 35L fridge freezer (55W) = approx 6.5 hrs

Starlink satellite internet (30W) = 10.5 hrs

Bluetooth speaker (10W) = 28 hrs

Charge a smartphone 17 times

Charge an action camera 64 times

Charge an e-bike 0.8 times

Verdict

If you go car camping or need a simple power station for emergency backup use in the home, the Jackery Explorer 500 V2 will do the trick. However, its lack of app connectivity and, perhaps more crucially, its inability to run higher-draw appliances for more than about 40 seconds at a time throttle its overall appeal.

With one of the wettest UK winters in living memory seemingly on the way out and the unbridled pleasures of spring just around the corner, it’s time to start preparing your gear for another exciting tranche of backpacking trips. And I think I have just the lightweight 3-season sleeping mat you need.

It’s called the Big Agnes Rapide SL, and it's so comfortable and supportive that it genuinely blurs the line between lightweight camping gear and the kind of sleep comfort you’d expect from home, well, kind of.

I trialled this best camping mat last autumn and quickly came to appreciate how much its extra thickness, plush texture and stable design improved my sleep, making a chilly night far more comfortable than I would have expected from such a lightweight backpacking pad.

Big Agnes Rapide SL insulated sleeping mat review

Price and availability

In the UK, the Big Agnes Rapide SL retails between £135 and £155 for the slim edition reviewed here. You can purchase it direct from Amazon (£155), Ultralight Outdoor Gear (£135), Alpine Trek (£138) and Taunton Leisure, where it's currently shifting for a knockdown £88.20.

If Stateside, consider going direct to Big Agnes, where the slim 20" x 72” version retails at $169.95. Alternatively, head to Amazon or REI Co-Op, where it retails at $159.15.

Design and features

Big Agnes is a Colorado-based outdoor brand renowned for its wide range of innovative camping and backpacking equipment. Founded in 2001 and named after a nearby mountain peak, the company focuses on lightweight performance, comfort and durability, and has already enjoyed great success with a tranche of award-winning tents, sleeping bags and insulated pads that have proven a huge hit amongst seasoned adventurers.

The Big Agnes Rapide SL is one such product that occupies the space between ultralight efficiency and wilderness comfort. And, believe me, this extraordinarily small package transforms into one of the most comfortable sleeping pads I’ve ever had the good fortune to try.

The Big Agnes Rapide SL is available in six sizes – 20 x 66”, 20 x 72”, 20 x 78”, 25 x 72”, 25 x 78” and a 40 x 72” double. I received the slim 20 x 72” (50.8 x 182.88cm) and, despite me being a skinnymalink, I think I would ultimately have preferred the wider 25” (63.5cm) model for a tad more girth.

The smaller form version I received weighs just 21.05 ounces (597g) while its packed bag measures a measly 8.46” x 4” (21.5cm x 10cm) – about the width of a toilet roll and not much taller. And best of all, it all goes back into its cinched waterproof bag without any finger-wrestling expletives, which is exactly what you want when you’re packing up after a stormy night on the peak.

With its generous 3.5” (9cm) thickness and raised outer chambers (4.25” / 11cm) that help keep users centred on the mat, the Rapide SL also offers genuinely impressive ground isolation despite its low mass.

One of the Rapide SL’s most notable design elements is its proprietary offset ‘I-Beam’ construction, which creates a stable internal structure while minimising material use.

This approach distributes body weight evenly across the surface of the pad, helping to prevent the ballooning sensation experienced with many cheaper air mats.

Crucially, its attractive, deep-orange, quilted pattern genuinely enhances comfort by producing a cushioned, pillowy feel that reduces pressure points – including the hips and elbows – during side sleeping. And what’s more, without any annoying crinkle sounds when you move about on it.

As to be expected from a company like Big Agnes, material choice plays a major role in the Rapide SL’s performance attributes. In this case, you get wonderfully textured, non-slip, double ripstop nylon paired with aviation-grade TPU lamination and strong welds, which cut a fine balance between durability and packability.

Make no mistake, this mat feels robust enough for regular three-season use and loads of inflation and deflation episodes. Rather handily, it also comes with three self-adhesive repair patches – just in case.

Insulation is an equally important design highlight with this mat. As a result, it uses dual layers of heat-reflective film to trap radiant body heat and improve thermal efficiency, resulting in an R-value of 4.8, which places it firmly in the three-season category and allows it to stretch a little further into chillier weather when paired with an appropriate sleeping bag.

Likewise, its internal antimicrobial treatment helps prevent mould or bacterial growth over time, and I consider that an exceedingly practical feature for gear that could end up being stored damp after a trip.

With its smart structural design, effective insulation technology and user-friendly features, this mat is a brilliant sleeping platform that feels far more substantial than its weight suggests – a key reason, perhaps, why it remains such a hugely popular choice among weight-conscious adventurers seeking dependable overnight comfort.

Inflation process

The Big Agnes Rapide SL’s inflation system is similar to most backpacking mats and comprised of two one-way valves: one for inflation, the other for deflation. You could feasibly use just lung power to inflate the mat but this will probably make you lightheaded well before reaching the goal. This is why Big Agnes – indeed most inflatable backpacking mat manufacturers – includes a lightweight balloon sack to help speed up the process.

However, I’ve never been able to capture enough air in the sack at any one time to make it that practical. In essence, you need to open out the wide end and attempt to scoop in some air before quickly rolling over the end so you end up with a balloon-like structure for squeezing air into the mat. However, this isn’t easy when the sack’s valve is attached to the mat since you have to lift the whole mat up when trying to scoop in more air. Some users simply breathe into the sack and roll it up, but even this may make you feel light headed. The upshot is that it takes several minutes to complete the inflation task.

So I contacted Flextail to call in one of its hugely popular pocket-sized, rechargeable battery pumps to see what all the backpacking fuss is about. The Chinese company sent me its latest MAX PUMP 3 and TINY PUMP 3X (retailer links) and, oh my word, what a pair of amazing little inventions they are.

I first tried the Flextail MAX PUMP 3 which also serves as a 300-lumen LED lamp with three light settings, a fold-out tent hook and a tripod mount for setting it on the floor or table. The MAX PUMP 3 filled the Rapide SL in 23 seconds flat using its 5kPa (500 L/min) of ample pressure. It also made decent work of filling the much thicker Coleman Supercomfort foam mattress which also comes with a similar fill sack. These were amazing results, especially considering how small and light it is – just 122g. The MAX PUMP 3 comes with five adaptors to cover most types of air mattresses and water toys, plus a small nylon carry sack.

I then filled the Rapide SL using the even smaller, cheaper and lighter rechargeable TINY PUMP 3X which weighs just 67g. It performed the same air-filling task in just 27 seconds at 300L/Min. This model also serves as a 300-lumen LED lamp and comes with a commendable five light settings, from soft warm white to bright. Like the MAX PUMP 3, it also comes with a variety of adaptors.

Both of these air pumps are among the most practical and versatile of camping inventions I’ve come across. Furthermore, they can also be used to fan the flames of a campfire and even attached in reverse to suck out any remaining air in a mattress or air-beam tent. No, they will not fill an air tent – that would be asking way to much – but they will tackle a myriad of other camping tasks with consummate aplomb. Whichever model you opt for, I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Comfort and performance

There are many reasons why I love this 3-season backpacker mat. Its pack size is tiny, and it doesn’t weigh much more than a filled water bottle. It’s far more comfortable than I expected and exceedingly supportive, in no small measure thanks to the two raised outer chambers that helped keep me centrally located during testing.

I also found its insulation highly effective during my late-autumn test, and I really rate the quality of the outer material, which feels robust, non-slippery, and wonderfully textured. The fact that it comes in the most delicious burnt orange colour is simply the icing on a substantially irresistible cake.

I tested the Big Agnes Rapide SL while writing my MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent review, and it was a perfect complement to the MSR in every regard. Although I’m built like a pipe cleaner, at no point did any of my body structure come into contact with the hard ground, and that was with a decent amount of softness in the mat.

I’ll admit that I initially thought its slim width and 9cm of depth would be insufficient for a visit to the land of nod, especially since I’m more used to heavily foamed camping mattresses like the Coleman Supercomfort or Quechua Ultim Comfort, but I was wrong because I slept like a puppy.

No, it’s not the lightest mat by a long shot – many others weigh in the region of 250g – but it’s a lot more comfortable to sleep on than so many ultralight models that appear to have been made out of some kind of crinkly mylar. And that, to me, is of more importance than a few extra grams of pack weight.

However, as mentioned earlier, I would definitely have chosen the 25” width version had I purchased this mattress myself, since the extra five inches would allow for more elbow room and less chance of my knee slipping off the edge.

Verdict

The Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated sleeping mat strikes an impressive balance between comfort, warmth and packability. Its generous 3.5” thickness and supportive construction deliver excellent cushioning and a sound night’s sleep, while the 4.8 R-value provides reliable three-season insulation for most UK conditions. If you’re looking for a relatively light and packable inflatable camping mat that provides exceptional comfort above all else, step right this way.

Big Agnes is marking its 25th anniversary with the launch of an all-new ultralight shelter family, the VST range, designed for hikers and fastpackers chasing low pack weights without sacrificing comfort or weather protection.

Named after the velocity formula (V=S/T), the VST series leans into the idea of moving faster on the trail, pairing stripped-back designs with new materials and a hybrid single-/double-wall construction that aims to balance durability, ventilation and usable interior space.

The backpacking tents use the brand’s recycled 20D HyperBead fabric, delivering a 4,000mm waterproof rating while remaining PFAS-free.

This spec alone positions the range squarely within the growing push toward more environmentally considerate technical fabrics.

Big Agnes says the geometry also allows the tents to comfortably fit 25-inch rectangular sleeping pads, with select “.5” sizing options offering extra elbow room for those who want a little more livability without jumping up a full capacity size.

Ultralight, without the usual compromises

Splitting across three core models, the lightest tent in the collection tips the scales at just 633g trail weight, placing the VST line firmly in fastpacking territory.

All tents are designed to accommodate 25-inch rectangular sleeping pads, and select models come in “.5 sizing” options for those who want extra shoulder or gear space without stepping up to a full two-person shelter.

The String Ridge VST, available in 1.5- and 2.5-person configurations, uses a trekking pole-supported structure to keep weight to a minimum while maintaining stability, with trail weights starting from 663g.

The Pitchpine VST weighs 719g and is a non-freestanding, single-pole 1.5-person shelter built for rapid setup and impressive interior volume.

At the roomier end of the spectrum, the Sarvis VST comes in two- and three-person versions and features a full freestanding pole architecture, dual doors and generous vestibules.

Despite the more traditional structure, the trail weight starts at just 1.06kg, which is still an incredibly low weight for such a feature-packed tent.

Built for a new era of backpacking

Big Agnes has been steadily pushing material innovation in recent years, and the use of recycled HyperBead fabric with a high waterproof rating signals a continued focus on performance without defaulting to heavier laminates.

Combined with the hybrid wall design, the VST range appears aimed at hikers who want the low weight of trekking pole shelters but with improved livability and weather resistance.

With long-distance trails reopening across Europe and the US and ultralight backpacking more popular than ever, the VST launch feels well-timed.

The VST tents are available now at Ultra Light Outdoor Gear, Big Agnes EU and Big Agnes US, with prices starting at £480 / €550 / $549.95 (~AU$777).

Helinox has already been famous for its ridiculously lightweight camping and hiking gear, but with the new LT Series, the South Korean brand is ready to redefine what ultralight outdoor gear means.

The Chair Zero LT and Table Zero LT is a packable furniture combo designed for backpackers, bikepackers and fastpackers who want comfort without the bulk.

The new models introduce GhostGrid mesh, a translucent monofilament ripstop mesh with two-way stretch, which the brand says improves both durability and airflow while keeping weight to a minimum.

“The Chair Zero LT represents our focus to continue innovating in the ultralightweight category, with new materials and designs that add strength, durability, comfort and improve the overall ease of use in the field.”

A lighter evolution of a classic

The Chair Zero LT builds on the original Chair Zero, a long-standing benchmark in ultralight camping chairs, but further trims weight while adding stability upgrades.

It uses a 7000-series DAC alloy frame with nylon resin hubs and includes a new X-strap stabiliser to reduce sinking on soft ground.

Packed weight comes in at just 1lb 3oz (around 540g), with a whopping 265lb (~120kg) load capacity, making it one of the lightest full-featured camp chairs on the market.

Joining the chair is the Table Zero LT, now the lightest table in Helinox’s lineup.

Weighing 8.5oz (about 240g) and supporting up to 22lb (~10kg), it’s designed as a compact surface for meals, drinks or small gear in camp.

The two products form a sub-2lb camp setup, underscoring Helinox’s focus on minimalist adventures where pack space and weight matter most.

Both pieces use DAC aluminium and green anodised alloys, a process the company says reduces chemical use by reusing reclaimed metal.

The Chair Zero LT launches at $159.95 (~£118 / €135 / AU$226), with the Table Zero LT priced at $149.95 (~£111 / €127 / AU$212), available now in the US via Helinox and select retailers.

International price and availability TBC.

My search for the best portable power station for both camping and home backup use continues, but for my money, the new Bluetti Elite 30 V2 is the closest yet to power-station heaven, especially given its power-to-weight ratio and very low price.

Available in several colours other than just dark grey – a first for power stations – this bargain-priced 600W titan is easily light enough to carry to the beach or picnic area, take car camping or motorcycle touring; even use its 1,500 power lifting mode to run the thirstiest of appliances.

And when you’re at home, it serves as a fail-safe UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) backup system for your internet, desktop computer or an entire TV system. What’s not to like? Nothing, as it happens.

Let’s look at this new 5-star contender in detail.

Bluetti Elite 30 V2 review

Price and availability

In the UK the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 retails at a very reasonable £189 and is available direct from Bluetti or Decathlon, Amazon and B&Q.

If you’re shopping in the US, head to Bluetti where it’s available in all six colours and sells for $239. Alternatively, try Amazon and Best Buy where it retails at $219.

Specifications

• Power output: 600W
• Battery capacity: 288Wh
• Max surge power: 1,500W
• Battery cell chemistry: LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
• Battery cycle life: 3,000
• UPS auto switch: 10ms
• AC outputs: 1 x 230V, 16.7A
• USB outputs: 2 x USB-C 140W + 100W; 2 x USB-A 15W
• DC outputs: 1 x 12v 10A
• DC5521 outputs: 2 x 12V/8A
• AC input: 1 x 230V, 10A
• DC/Solar input: 12-28V/10A/200W
• Charging time: Around 50 mins
• Dimensions: 250 x 178 x 167.5mm (9.8 × 7 × 6.6in)
• Weight: 4.3kg (9.48lbs)
• Storage Temperature: -20℃ to 40℃ (-4℉ to 104℉)
• Warranty: 5 years

Design and features

If you’ve read any of my other portable power station reviews, you’ll know how much I love the smaller models, mostly because of their size and lightness for easy transport and convenience as a local backup system for important home devices like routers, desktop computers, TVs and lighting.

For me, the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 is right in the centre of the sweet spot when it comes to balancing power, functionality and capacity with portability, size and price. At just 4.3kg (9.48lbs) in weight, it’s light enough for a child to carry using the unit’s moulded handle and, at 25 x 17.8 x 16.7cm (9.8 × 7 × 6.6in), it’s a perfect size for use as an emergency UPS backup system right where you need it (the moment mains power ceases, the Elite 30 V2 kicks in in just 10 milliseconds).

The fact that this clever little sausage costs just £189 ($239) and ships in a range of pastel colours is further cause for celebration. For instance, in the UK this unit is available in the obligatory dark grey as well as pastel green and pale grey, while in the States you get a full smorgasbord of six colours – dark and light grey plus pastel green, purple, pink and blue.

The Elite 30 V2 boasts 600W of pure sine wave oomph, which is quite remarkable given how small it is. Furthermore, its sorcery-like power-lifting feature can handle up to 1,500W by artificially lowering the voltage of high-power devices, allowing them to continue running at around 600W with barely any noticeable drop in performance.

However, its safe-as-houses LiFePO4₄ battery’s capacity is only 288 watt hours, which means it won’t run power-intensive appliances for as long as most larger, heavier models on the market. The phrase ‘swings and roundabouts’ springs to mind, and I’m okay with that.

You only get one 230V AC output with this model (two 120V outputs in the US), but I think that’s perfectly acceptable, since you can simply plug in an extension cable. As to be expected, the Elite 30 V2 also has a full compliment of DC outputs, including a 12V 10amp car lighter port for powering camping fridges, air pumps, etc, and four USB-C inputs for small devices.

These are comprised of one USB-C at 140W (a big bonus), one USB-C at 100W, and two prehistoric USB-A ports at 15W apiece. And for those with a Starlink internet system, LED strip lights or surveillance equipment, this model also ships with two 12V/8A DC5521 barrel connectors.

On the input front, the Elite 30 V2 comes with a side-mounted AC port under a protective rubber flap for charging it via the mains (up to 380W in Turbo mode), and on the front a DC/PV XT60 input (12V-28V, 10amp, 200W) for charging the power station via an optional solar panel (up to 200W) or the car’s inverter (around 110W) when the engine is running (the product comes with a 12V-to-XT60 cigarette charging cable for this purpose).

Bluetti always produces great interfaces, and this one is no different. At 3-inches corner-to-corner, the Elite 30 V2’s bright blue display is easy to read and includes the key prerequisites – input and output in watts, frequency in Hertz, battery percentage, and remaining runtime. It also lets you know if the system is in power lifting, and/or Eco, or Silent mode.

In a minor stroke of genius, you can also change some power functions like silent/turbo charging and power lifting directly on the interface without using the Bluetti app. Simply push and hold the AC and DC buttons together and select the function you need. It’s obviously much easier just using the app to make these changes, but it’s also great to have the option to perform such tasks at the source.

Bluetti also sent me its 100W solar panel, though you will need to purchase the AT60 adaptor to use it (around £8). Unfortunately, the cloudy doldrums we're experiencing in the UK have made it impossible to evaluate the solar panel, as there’s been so much cloud cover that its output hasn’t even registered. I double-checked this using a different panel, but the input remained at zero. Once the sun starts shining again, I’ll perform another test and update the information in this review.

Bluetti app

The Bluetti app is a convenient mobile companion for managing the Elite 30 V2 and other Bluetti power stations, offering real-time monitoring of battery status, power input/output and remote control features.

The interface also lets you check remaining running time and modify settings like screen timeout, Power Lifting, ECO mode (the processor shuts off the AC and/or DC outputs after a period of very low or no load) and how you want its UPS feature to work – I use it in Standard mode which means it’s on all the time as emergency backup in a power cut.

Performance

I’ll cut to the chase and say that this is one of the most versatile and convenient portable power stations I’ve so far reviewed. Its weight is spot on for outdoor use – you can carry it for hundreds of metres without your shoulder dislocating – and its size is perfect for localised emergency backup without the need for any trailing cables.

I’ve tried it with a number of home appliances and have been extremely impressed by its performance and overall silence, even when pushed to the limit. Running an internet system, a desktop computer, or an entire TV system with a Sky Q box, PlayStation 5 and sound bar is fiddlesticks to this diminutive powerhouse, so I enlisted a couple of big hitters to see if I could trip it up.

I first tried an 800W/1,800W Meaco heater on low. With the Power Lifting option engaged, it balanced the heater’s low setting of 800W to around 595W, and it kept on running with no discernible drop in warmth or fan speed.

But when I switched the heater to high heat (1,800W), the heater’s fan dropped to a useless trickle, but the heater strangely remained on with only a smidgen of warmth still emanating an inch from the grille. The upshot is that this little 600W powerhouse actually worked wonders with the Meaco’s 800W setting, and that’s a pretty magical outcome if you ask me.

I then tested it using a Smeg Lavazza coffee pod machine, which, at between 1.25kW and 1.45kW, would trip many power-lifting functions on other power stations and, again, it throttled back the voltage in the Smeg so it could produce an espresso as if plugged into the mains – and with another hour of use still on tap. Despite it lowering the voltage, I detected no difference in the taste or heat of the coffee. Given my penchant for a good espresso, that’s a five-star result in my book.

What devices will the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 handle?

With 600 watts of output and up to 1,500 watts of power lifting on tap, the Elite 30 V2 can handle a myriad of devices, both indoors and out. Here’s a list of some examples:

HOME UPS BACKUP:

WiFi router (around 12W) = 14.5 hrs

iMac M4 = 2 to 2.5 hrs depending on usage

Samsung 49” LCD TV, Sky Q box and sound bar with sub woofer (around 127W) = up to 1.9 hrs

Electric kettle (500W) = 0.5 hrs

Smeg Lavazza coffee pod machine (1.25kW to 1.45kW) = 1.1 hrs in Power Lifting mode

CPAP machine for sleep-related breathing disorders (around 15W) = 12.3 hrs

Small hair dryer (600W) = 24 mins

Hue light bulb (10W) = 24 hrs

Fan heater (500W) = 30 to 40 mins

Dyson hushJet air purifier (17W) = 8.8 hrs

CAMPING & OUTDOORS:

Diesel heater (around 30W) = 7 hrs

Ecoflow Glacier Classic 35L fridge (55W) = approx 5 hrs

Starlink satellite internet (30W) = 7 hrs

Bluetooth speaker (12W) = 14.5 hrs

Charge a smartphone 16 times

Charge a 60Wh laptop computer 4 times

Charge a drone 4 times

Charge a Brevoy Portable Espresso Maker twice

Charge a DeWalt 6.0Ah power tool battery twice

Verdict

The Bluetti Elite 30 V2 delivers excellent portable power in a remarkably compact and lightweight package, making it ideal for camping, road trips and emergency UPS backup. With 600W on tap and a low UK price of just £189, this versatile standalone power solution is one of the best new models on the market and well worth investigation.

For anyone who spends time in the outdoors – for work, play or travel – a top-performing fleece jacket is an absolutely essential piece of kit. I’m outdoors a lot, for all of the above reasons, and I have tested countless tops described as fleeces by myriad brands. Some perform excellently but look awful, while others are super stylish but prove less effective in the elements – occasionally you get one that ticks all the boxes. But before I get into three of my current favourites for spring conditions, it’s worth quickly considering the question, what exactly is a fleece?

Traditionally, fleeces were made from recycled synthetic materials and were regarded as groundbreaking eco-friendly outdoor-active clothing, but the word ‘fleece’ is bandied around very loosely these days, and is used to describe a wide range of tops, from casual-wear hoodies made from all sorts of fabric to garments that look more like wind cheaters and softshells. While a wider material mix might be more acceptable now, however, a true fleece is primarily a midlayer garment, designed to work well when worn above the best base layers and beneath a good waterproof jacket (when required).

Best for basic warmth

Columbia Crystal Leaf Omni-Heat Technical Half-zip Fleece

There is much more going on than meets the eye with the Crystal Leaf, which is available for an extremely accessible price. It’s a thin and lightweight fleece, but the Omni-Heat Helix technology traps warmth inside, while the fabric remains breathable, and internally generated moisture is quickly wicked away from the body when you’re working hard on the trails.

It’s a half-zip top, and there’s no hood on this version, but I believe less is more when it comes to true midlayers – very few people actually use hoods on lightweight tops, and usually they end up sticking out the top of the jacket and getting wet in the rain. And a full zip can reduce thermal protection, and this top is designed to be worn all day, not to be taken on and off. There are no pockets either, which is fine when you’re using it beneath a coat.

I love the thumb holes, which prevent the sleeves from bunching up when you pull on an outer layer and keep skin from being exposed when you’re wearing gloves. The high neck and long back panel both keep drafts out, and being 10% elastane, the material is super stretchy, allowing for a full range of movement when you’re climbing, scrambling or doing anything dynamic. The only downside is that, so far as I can see, no recycled fabric has been used.

Best features

Rab Ramshaw Hoody

If you’re intending to rock your fleece as an outer wear, instead of merely a midlayer, then it’s handy to have a few more features. The Ramshaw, by Rab, is designed to be seen, and (even in the not-for-everyone ‘pollen’ colour I’ve been testing) it’s good-looking fleece.

It’s also pretty thin and light (517g), but when combined with an outer shell, like a waterproof coat, the raised squares on the external face of the fleece are designed to capture air that your body will heat up, creating a good warm layer. With a high degree of stretch, it’s a very dynamic garment, perfect for rock climbing, hiking and scrambling. And it’s made from 75% recycled materials.

Features-wise, it has three fully functional pockets (a pair of hand pockets and a chest pouch), all of which zip shut, so you don’t lose important things mid-trail. It has a full-length zip, so you can dump heat quickly when you need to, plus a good chin guard and a decent hood, which fits under a helmet and can be tightened with toggles to protect your head and ears from the wind. It doesn’t have thumb hoops, but the sleeves are elasticated at the wrists, which prevents sleeves from bunching if you do don an outer layer.

Most stylish

66 North Tungudalur Hoodie

Designed to deliver warmth on the edge of the Arctic Circle (and to turn heads wherever you wear it), gear from 66 North is always seriously stylish and very high-performing (and usually priced accordingly). The Icelandic brand do make much thicker fleeces for mid-winter, but the Tungudalur (available with and without a hood) is a thinner. Low-bulk, lightweight garment, perfect for spring-summer-autumn as outerwear, or when worn beneath a windproof and/or waterproof shell when the elements are feistier.

It has a full zip for easy heat management and a pair of hand pockets with zips. There are no thumb loops, but the wrists are elasticated to stop bunching and prevent sleeves from riding up your arms. I have been testing the lidded version, and the hood can be tightened to keep out the worst of the weather. Although it’s the kind of clobber you want to show off, not hide, it works well as a midlayer beneath a jacket.

Made from high-end Polartec Powerstretch Pro fleece (external link), this trim-fit top is warm, breathable, and tough, with a smooth, abrasion-resistant exterior and a soft-feel inner that is luxuriously comfortable next to the skin. The material mix wicks moisture away excellently and offers four-way flex, for when you’re reaching for handholds or posing at the pub. Lastly, it’s made from 84% recycled material.

Good to know

Fleeces are useful – essential even – all year round: an outer layer for evenings and mornings in summer, a comfy, protective top on cooler spring and autumn days, and a high-performing thermal midlayer beneath a waterproof shell in winter. But it’s hard to find a one-size-fits-all fleece that covers all those occasions.

Thickness, weight and bulk are key considerations, as are features (including pockets, hoods and thumb loops) and style choices – such as a smooth-finish or long-pile fleece – that go beyond the garment's mere look (long-pile tops are considerably warmer).

Then there’s the tech, with design innovations such as Columbia’s Omni-Heat system, raised grids (as seen on Rab’s Ramshaw Hoody), and advanced materials like Polartec Powerstretch Pro (used in 66 North’s Tungudalur Hoodie), all adding to the thermal performance of the tops.

The three fleeces covered here are all low-bulk, mid-weight garments, which I regard as perfect for 9 to 10 months of the year. In mid-winter, and especially if you’re venturing into colder climes or up into the mountains, you’ll need a thicker, heavier, warmer garment like Patagonia’s Classic Retro-X fleece, which is a brilliant traditional number, made from 100% recycled synthetic material, that will keep you very cosy when worn under a waterproof jacket.

When choosing a fleece, if you’re mainly planning to wear it as a midlayer, simplicity, performance, and cost will be the top priorities, so something like the Columbia Crystal Leaf Omni-Heat Technical Half-zip Fleece is probably perfect.

If you think it’s likely you will be wearing it on the outside for much of the time, then the look of the top, and elements like pockets, are more important, so the Tungudalur or Ramshaw fleeces will be better options. Fleeces are always made from synthetic fabrics that will never fully biodegrade, so personally, I choose tops made mostly from recycled materials.

Sea to Summit is lining up one of its most meaningful sleep-system updates in years with the launch of the Ultralight XR Sleeping Mat, a new model set to arrive as an early, REI-exclusive release on 1 February 2026.

Aimed at backpackers, fastpackers and weight-conscious travellers, the new camping mat focuses on improving real-world comfort and packability without increasing carry weight.

Sea to Summit says the Ultralight XR is 14% lighter than the previous Ultralight model, while also being 30% thicker and packing down 53% smaller.

Warmth has been pushed up as well, with an R-value of 3.6, making the new mat 16% more insulative than its predecessor.

For a mat that still weighs just 415g (14.6 oz) in Regular size, those numbers place it firmly in three-season territory without tipping into winter-mat bulk.

Stability, not just softness

The update centres around the revised take on Sea to Summit’s long-running Air Sprung Cell construction.

Rather than relying on horizontal or vertical baffles, the Ultralight XR uses 151 individual air-filled cells, each acting like a 'miniature spring'.

According to the brand, the updated dot-weld geometry helps the mat feel more planted on the ground, reducing the rolling or “teetering” sensation that can occur with traditional ultralight air mats, especially for side or restless sleepers.

Thickness now measures 6.5cm, which Sea to Summit positions as “true cushioning” rather than the floating-on-air feel some ultralight pads deliver.

The individual cells are designed to conform around shoulders, hips and the lower back, spreading pressure more evenly across the surface.

Warmth comes courtesy of updated ThermalCore insulation, which incorporates a TRM reflective layer to bounce infrared heat back toward the sleeper while also limiting internal air movement.

The result is improved thermal efficiency without adding synthetic fill or significant weight.

The Ultralight XR uses a hybrid 30/40D fabric paired with an extruded TPU laminate and Ultrafresh antimicrobial treatment, materials Sea to Summit says are backed by a decade-long track record.

The Sea to Summit Ultralight XR Sleeping Mat is available in Small, Regular and Large, with an MSRP of $149 for the Regular size, exclusively via REI at launch.

Welcome to our review of the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25°, a premium down sleeping bag designed for backpacking and mountaineering in sub-zero temperatures of around 25˚F (-3.8˚C) and above.

While tents, torches, chairs and stoves tend to grab the most attention when it comes to online camping-related searches, it’s the quality of your sleep that ultimately determines how much you enjoy your time outdoors, and this begins with the best sleeping bag.

The three-season Fly Creek UL 25° is one such contender that pushes the technological envelope for warmth, weightlessness and supreme packability. Let's dive in.

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25˚ review

Price and availability

In the UK, the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° retails between £270 and £405 and is available from Alpin Store (£272), EkoSport (£326), AlpineTrek (£360) and UltraLight Outdoor Gear (£405). If shopping in the EU, visit the Big Agnes EU store to purchase this bag for €500.

If you live in the US, try Big Agnes, CampSaver or Jenson USA, where the FlyCreek UL 25˚ sells for around $500.

What's the difference between down and synthetic insulation?

There are two main types of insulation filling in modern sleeping bags: down and synthetic. Each material offers distinct strengths and compromises suited to different types of camping, whether it's backpacking, family car camping, or those seeking warmth on a budget.

Down sleeping bags are cherished for their exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, as the natural loft of down traps heat extremely efficiently, allowing bags to be lighter, warmer, and far more compressible than almost all synthetic alternatives.

This makes down an ideal insulation for backpackers, long-haul trekkers and alpinists where space and weight are absolutely critical. Down also tends to last longer, maintaining its loft over many years if stored and cared for correctly.

Granted, down sleeping bags usually cost more to buy (quite a lot more in some instances), but that's the price one pays for being cocooned in the ultra-fine insulating plumage found beneath the feathers of geese or ducks.

On the downside, for want of a better noun, down can be very vulnerable to moisture unless pre-treated by the manufacturer – when wet, untreated down loses much of its insulating ability and drying it in the field can be extremely challenging, as anyone who has tried to dry out a washed down puffer jacket will know only too well.

Synthetic sleeping bags, on the other hand, prioritise reliability in damp conditions. This is because 'man-made' synthetic insulation continues to insulate even when damp. It also dries quickly, making this type of insulation perfectly well-suited to wet climates, high humidity and less predictable weather.

Synthetic sleeping bags are also more affordable and easier to wash and store, making them more appealing to beginners and regular car campers. However, synthetic bags are typically heavier, much bulkier, and they lose loft faster over time.

Now you know the ins and outs of down versus synthetic, let's look at the down-equipped Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° in more detail.

Design and features

Colorado-based Big Agnes has been in the camping business for a couple of decades and has a strong reputation for pairing high-quality sustainable materials with attentive, minimalist design that just works. This premium three-season sleeping bag is a case in point.

Granted, the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° is one of the most expensive down-filled bags currently on the market, but then it's also one of the best choices for backpackers, bikepackers, long-haul hikers and hardy mountain campers who place a premium on low weight, compact pack size and reliable three-season warmth.

Sitting firmly in the ultralight category, the Fly Creek UL 25° delivers exceptional thermal performance without the bulk and weight of comparable synthetic models. In fact, at just 785g in weight and a tiny 25 x 20cm when stuffed into its moisture-resistant sack, this is by far the lightest and smallest pack size I've ever seen in a sleeping bag.

What's more, with some deft squashing, it'll compress into an even smaller package than the one stated above, making it a shoo-in for smaller backpacks or for those who need more space in their pack for the tent.

The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° is available in two sizes, each with a maximum user height of 6 feet (183cm). Regular has a shoulder girth of 60" (152cm), a hip girth of 54" (137cm) and a foot girth of 36" (91.5cm) while the Long version measures in at 63" (160cm) x 57" (145cm) x 39" (99cm).

The Regular variant I received uses 17 ounces (481g) of 850-fill-power PFC-free goose down, which is about as fluffy, light, and insulating as it gets. Moreover, the down itself is coated with DownTek, a moisture-repellent nanotech treatment that resists moisture while allowing the down to stay lofted for longer, dry faster and maintain warmth, even in damp conditions.

For its diamond quilted outer shell, Big Agnes has opted for ultralight 10D recycled NetPlus ripstop nylon cast from recycled fishing nets. This extremely lightweight fabric slices off many grams, but I would be doubly mindful of keeping it away from sharp objects – and especially naked flames – because it is an extraordinarily thin material.

Thermally, the Fly Creek UL 25°'s ISO comfort rating of 25°F (-3.8°C) to 35°F (1.6°C) makes it suitable for typical three-season backpacking from early spring to late autumn. While the highly-tapered mummy shape might not appeal to everyone, it does minimise internal volume for quicker heating-up time and better warmth retention, especially around the feet. Likewise, the generous hood and draft collar work very well at reducing cold spots around the neck, head and face.

Unlike most sleeping bags that come with a full-length side-mounted zip, this model features a centrally located half zip to help shave off some extra grams. While a half zip isn't as effective at ventilation control, it does improve overall insulation when the temperature drops and, for some users, is easier to use when fully ensconced.

To finish, this bag comes with a large breathable mesh sack for storage at home and a featherweight, moisture-resistant stuff sack for supreme packability when hitting the trail.

Comfort and performance

Having spent a good amount of time wrapped in the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° (in both the MSR Hubba Hubba NX and the Hilleberg Soulo), it became perfectly clear that this bag is built for performance-first backpacking.

I was blown away by the tiny Tardis-like size of its pack, and when I started pulling it out, it just kept on coming. Even more impressively, when laid out and given a quick shake, the insulation immediately began to expand, and after five minutes, it was about five times as deep. Very encouraging.

Since this sleeping bag is so light and lofty, I'll admit it felt a bit odd when climbing in for the first time. In fact, it felt almost worryingly inadequate and akin to lying under a single silk sheet with almost zero weight above me.

But after a few minutes, the 850-fill down started doing what it's designed to do, and I was soon as snug as a bug from head to toes. I will add that I used it atop a soon-to-be-reviewed Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated 3-season air-chamber sleeping pad.

While I personally prefer the position of a centrally located, weight-saving half-length zip, I'll admit it's less convenient than a full zip for complete temperature regulation in warmer weather. Also, getting into a bag with a half zip isn't quite as easy as one with a full-length side zip (with this model, you need to climb in rather than slide in).

But on the plus side, a half-zip offers slightly better insulation when the temperature drops, and I found it easier to access and use when snuggling in. Encouragingly, I also noticed that condensation resistance was better than I expected, with the treated down coping well in the higher humidity conditions of early November in the UK.

I'm of very slim build and 5'5" in height, and the Fly Creek UL 25° has been a perfect fit for me. While I'm generally not a big fan of tightly tapered mummy bags like this, I can certainly appreciate the extra warmth this cut style provides to the leg and foot areas. I have also been impressed by the puffy hood and internal drawstring, which effectively cocoon the face and neck against the chill of the night.

Overall, I’d rate this high-performing, cleverly designed bag as an excellent – albeit pricey – choice for three-season backpacking where weight and pack size are of the utmost importance. In fact, I'm frankly amazed that something so light can achieve such excellent thermal efficiency, and I thank my lucky stars I wasn't born 50 years earlier, when this type of technology simply didn't exist.

Verdict

The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° is an excellent down-filled choice for backpackers who prioritise low weight, compact pack size and reliable three-season warmth. This light-as-a-feather model delivers impressive thermal efficiency, lofts quickly and performs consistently well in cool and even damp conditions. While the half-length zip may limit versatility for some, its overall performance, high-end materials and minimalist construction make it a top choice for weight-conscious adventurers.

The success of any camping adventure is entirely reliant on having the best tent you can get your hands on. You might have the most cosy and comfortable sleeping bag ever created and the plushest camping mat in the world, but if the tent you take on the trail fails to keep the elements out, or if it’s cramped or weighs too much, then your trip will be miserable.

I get to test tents for a living, which sounds awesome (and usually is), but when you get a dud design, it results in some seriously uncomfortable nights. Thankfully, I’ve discovered some exceptional shelters, and these are the tents I will be taking out on the trails this year.

Best overall

Nemo Dagger Osmo

Available in both 2- and 3-person models, the latest iteration of the Nemo Dagger Osmo is as close to the perfect tent for backpacking as I’ve ever had the privilege of using. Lightweight, easy to pack and pitch, it’s a superbly designed shelter from the bucket floor upwards.

There’s plenty of room on the inside, with various pockets and features to make organisation and space optimisation easy, and the twin doors and double vestibule design means you can keep backpacks and hiking boots dry while not crowding the sleeping area, and you don’t have to disturb your camping buddy when getting out in the early hours to answer a call of nature.

The materials are recycled, and the whole shelter is made in an eco-friendly way. The pole system is smart, and the materials and components are all top-quality, so the shelter can withstand high winds and serious downpours. There are myriad small design details that improve the camping experience without adding to the carry weight, from the axial corner anchors and strut vents to the ‘Landing Zone’, a triangular storage tub in the vestibules.

Best for solo campers

Lifesystems Solo Peak

If you’re someone who enjoys heading off on adventures by yourself, or if you prefer to sleep solo during overnight escapades with friends, the Lifesystems Solo Peak 1-person tent is a clever little cocoon that weighs very little (1kg) and packs down to the size of a water bottle, but provides excellent shelter in a range of conditions.

With a tiny footprint, you can pitch it in all kinds of tight spots, and yet – considering its diminutive size – it offers enough headroom for you to sit up, and even has a vestibule (albeit a small one) for stashing packs and boots.

The materials are impressively robust and protective, with the fly and groundsheet both boasting a high hydrostatic head rating of 3,000mm. Because it’s small, the interior warms up very quickly and stays cosy, so – if you have a decent sleeping bag and pad – you can use it for most of the year in the UK (I tested it during November and December). It’s also very reasonably priced.

Best for bikepacking

MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2

The European release of the much-anticipated new Hubba Hubba LT2 only recently happened, and the significantly updated shelter is impressively spacious and light. But for me, MSR were always going to struggle to truly improve on the original design, which forms the basis of the brilliant Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2.

Space is everything when you’re bikepacking, and the concessions to packability that make all the difference here are the trimmed pole lengths and the waterproof carry bag, which is designed to be attached directly to the handlebars of your bike (an ingenious innovation that means you don’t need to invest in an expensive bar bag, which would only end up full of tent.

Regardless of whether you’re on wheels or walking, this is an excellent tent for use beside the trail. Designed around a hub-style pole system, the shelter has an excellent nylon fly sheet and a strong geodesic-dome shape, which can withstand strong winds.

The pole lengths have been trimmed to make packing even easier. It also offers two doors, each with a spacious vestibule for storing stuff. Additional features include the ‘StayDry’ rain gutters, a gear loft and a clothesline on the inside.

Buying advice

Choosing the perfect tent is tricky, especially if you enjoy a range of camping experiences, from fast-paced, lightweight overnight adventures to more comfortable car camping outings. The tents listed here are specifically for backpacking and bikepacking escapades – they are all quite different in design, but the common denominator is a low carry weight.

While cost is inevitably a consideration, it’s really important to get a shelter made from robust and genuinely weatherproof materials. Look for details such as sealed seams, which make all the difference in keeping the rain out, and good-quality zips, which will improve the lifespan of your tent.

Ease of pitch and low bulk are two other crucial considerations. Some tents (like the Lifesystems Solo Peak) can be pitched outer first, which means you can escape the weather quickly, while others, such as the Nemo Dagger Osmo and the Hubba Hubba, feature stand-alone inners, which can offer sensational star-gazing opportunities on clear, dry nights.

For me, access to a spacious vestibule is a high-value feature, since it allows you to stash your backpack and hiking boots or walking shoes somewhere dry without taking up room in the main sleeping compartment.

If you're getting a 2-person tent, go for one with two doors so you don't have to climb over your camping buddy in the middle of the night (and they don't have to climb over you).

Lastly, good ventilation is essential for comfort and to allow condensation to escape (otherwise you will wake up damp, no matter how waterproof the fly is).

Big Agnes is a huge brand Stateside, offering a comprehensive range of camping kit from tents to camping mats and quilts to rucksacks. However, the brand is rarely seen in the UK, but there’s plenty of kit for us to get excited about.

I’ve been testing the Tiger Wall 2 Platinum for the past few months in a range of conditions, from the warm nights of the Danish countryside to the downright soggy fells of the Lake District.

Big Agnes says this tent is lighter than ultralight, which will cause some ears to prick up, especially amongst the titanium fork-wielding ultralight community, but is it any good for those of us who don't mind carrying a few grams for some added protection from the elements?

Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2 Platinum review

Price and availability

The Tiger Wall 2 Platinum costs £749 / €800 / $649 and is available from Big Agnes.

Design and materials

Big Agnes says the Tiger Wall 2 Platinum is a ‘lighter than ultralight’ tent, which is indeed a very lofty claim that is fortunately backed up by some seriously impressive figures.

The tent weighs a scant 992g, putting it firmly in ultralight territory. For context, my go-to tent for use in the mountains is the MSR Access 2, which tips the scales at 1.86kg, almost double the weight of the Big Agnes.

The MSR is a 4-season tent designed to withstand serious conditions, but there have been times at summer camps when it’s been overkill, and I would’ve chosen the Big Agnes if I'd known conditions were going to be mild and calm.

Big Agnes has managed to keep the weight down by using super-lightweight fabrics, notably the 7D nylon ripstop that forms the tent's body.

Most tents use a 15-30D weight material for the body, so by using such a lightweight material, Big Agnes has managed to cut a serious amount of weight.

Elsewhere, the rainfly and floor are made from a proprietary HyperBead fabric that offers a hydrostatic head of 1500mm and is produced without PFAS chemicals.

Big Agnes says that its HyperBead technology makes the fabric 6% lighter, 50% stronger, and 25% more waterproof than traditional tent fabrics. Critically, it also doesn't stretch when wet, which is often what makes even the best-pitched tents flap in the wind, leading to sleepless nights.

1500HH is not particularly waterproof compared to tents designed for inclement weather, but it kept me dry during some sharp summer downpours. I wouldn't rate the chances of staying dry as very high if it poured all night, but for a summer tent, it performed well.

The outer fabric is coated with what feels like a silicone treatment to aid water beading, which made it a little sticky when unpacked after being put away wet. The first time, I thought I was going to tear the fabric, but no damage occurred.

Poles are provided by DAC and are the Featherlight NFL variety. They felt sturdy and assembled easily; repair sections are included with the tent, should any become damaged.

Performance

The tent's packed size is impressive, measuring 46cm x 13cm. I found it possible to pack smaller by separating the poles into inner and outer sections, and managed to cram it into a 35L pack with a lightweight sleeping bag and pad.

Pitching the Tiger Wall 2 Platinum was very straightforward; I didn't have to consult the instructions, which is always a good indicator of how intuitive a tent is to pitch.

This model requires the inner to be pitched first, with the corners pegged out, and then the poles attach to the corners. The single pole is asymmetric, but colour-coded tags on the corners make it almost impossible to get mixed up. The inner is then clipped onto the pole to provide a fairly sturdy yet very lightweight summer tent.

For more protection and privacy, the outer clips into the corners of the inner and can then be pegged out with the included 6” Dirt Dagger stakes. With a bit of practice, the tent can be reliably pitched in just a few minutes.

My one irritation is the lack of provided guy lines. Big Ages provide 2 as standard, which is plenty in calm, windless conditions, but I found myself having to untie and reattach them around the tent when the wind picked up. 2 more lines surely wouldn’t have been a crippling extra expense?

Once pitched, the Tiger Wall 2 Platinum has 2 small vestibules, a 219x132 floor area, and a head height of 99cm. It’s plenty spacious for a single occupant, but would be very snug for 2. As the tent is so light, I see no reason not to buy the 3-person version for 2 occupants. It’s only an additional 200 grams for heaps of extra space.

I did notice that in the summer months, when the nights are short and the days stretch out, the very thin outer did very little to keep the sunlight out, meaning an eyemask is pretty critical unless you like waking with the sun!

Verdict

The Tiger Wall 2 Platinum is a standout tent for its weight and price, and one I’d happily reach for on summer trips where conditions are expected to be settled. Despite its featherweight design, it handled occasional wind and rain well, while impressing with its compact pack size and generous interior space. In the UK, it’s best suited to carefully chosen forecasts, but when the weather aligns, it’s a joy to use.

Also Consider

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent is a superb, all-around, three-season option that balances lightweight performance with roomy interior and weather protection. Its spacious vestibules, excellent ventilation and quality build make it a strong choice for more varied UK conditions.

The North Face Trail Lite 2-Person Tent offers generous space, solid weather resistance and easy pitching, with features like clever storage and durable fabrics. It isn’t as ultralight as the Tiger Wall, but it delivers greater comfort and protection for regular backpacking adventures.

When you’re heading into the great outdoors – whether for a relaxed camping weekend, an extended time in the wilderness or an immersive bushcraft session – a sharp, small-bladed knife or collapsible multitool will be an invaluable companion that might just save the day when things go a bit pear shaped.

Cutting a guy line or rope, preparing food, carving wood for a shelter, repairing gear or simply tackling a range of unexpected tasks all demand the right tool that’s reliable, durable and well designed. But with so many options on the market, finding the right knife that balances strength, versatility and ease of use can be a pretty perplexing task.

For this guide I’m focussing on the three best camping knives and multitools I’ve seen in 2025; knives and tools that stand up to real-world outdoor demands, from rugged fixed-blade bushcraft knives built for heavy work to versatile pocket folders and all-in-one multitools that are capable of tackling a multitude of outdoor tasks while being perfectly legal to carry.

Whether you’re refining your camping setup, equipping a first-aid kit or heading out on your first bushcraft adventure, these three sterling stalwarts are the best camping knives to stuff in your backpack.

Best overall

The James Brand Ellis Scissors

This winning contender blends everyday carry convenience with exceptional outdoor versatility. Available with a partially-serrated or straight razor-sharp Sandvik 12C27 blade – and with or without built-in scissors – the Ellis makes cutting tasks around camp a veritable cinch, whether it's slicing off kindling, carving an emergency tent peg or snipping a bandaid to length.

The Ellis's slip-joint construction and 6.6cm (2.6") blade make it perfectly legal to carry in the UK while the addition of practical tools like a flat-head screwdriver, scraper and pry tool add to its overall worthiness. Replete with pocket clip and a comfortable, water-resistant G10 plastic handle, the Ellis feels well balanced and dependable in hand.

With a closed length of 9.5cm and low 80g weight, this stylish, compact and highly capable pocket model performs brilliantly for light camping duties, bushcraft chores and general wilderness tasks, and is an excellent choice for those who value great versatility in a diminutive pocket-sized knife that doesn't cost the earth. Small wonder it's my top choice of 2025.

Read our full review of the very similar James Brand Ellis Slim

Best multitool

Leatherman Bond

Available in four colour schemes, the Leatherman Bond is a cleverly designed multitool that focuses on everyday practicality, whether its camping, trekking or simply repairing things wherever you happen to be.

Constructed from high-grade stainless steel, the Bond weighs a solid 165g and integrates 14 precisely engineered tools within a split symmetrical frame that unfurls to reveal one of the main differentiators of a Leatherman product – the pliers. Replete with tapered needle-nose jaws and integrated hard-wire and standard wire cutters, these pliers offer a controlled grip and excellent mechanical leverage for a myriad of camping tasks.

The Bond's 420HC stainless steel blade is flat-ground and corrosion-resistant, delivering a reliable edge for food prep, cord and rope cutting, and general utility work. Supporting tools include a Phillips and two flat-head screwdrivers, a combined wood and metal file, an awl, wire stripper, bottle and can openers, and an integrated ruler. The slip-joint mechanism, meanwhile, avoids locking the components, thereby keeping the Bond compliant with UK carry regulations.

For campers and travellers in the market for a robust, no-frills multitool with proven materials and a great tool selection, this model delivers in spades.

Now read our full review of the Leatherman Bond

Best bushcraft knife

Morakniv Garberg

This purpose-built Swedish camping and bushcraft knife prioritises strength, reliability and practical performance, and features a full-tang construction, providing the structural integrity required for heavier camping tasks like wood working, shelter construction, splitting kindling, food prep and campsite repairs.

The Morakniv Garberg's substantial 10.8cm blade is made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel and offers an excellent balance between toughness, corrosion resistance and edge retention. Make no mistake, this is a knife that will last for years if looked after and not abused too much.

Out-of-the-box sharpness is razor-like, and the blade is easy to maintain with basic sharpening equipment like a simple wet stone. The Garberg's polyamide handle, meanwhile, is functional rather than flashy, and features a textured diamond-patterned grip that provides exceptional grip even when wet or while wearing gloves.

This knife also ships with a robust polymer belt sheath for protection in transit, though one should be mindful of packing it away in a backpack when travelling in the UK because its 4.25" non-folding blade isn't considered carry legal in the UK.

If you're looking for a dependable and extremely robust bushcraft knife that feels grippy in the hand and cuts cleanly and controllably, put this one at the top of your list because it's a keenly-priced cracker.

Buying advice

Choosing the right camping or bushcraft knife begins with understanding how it is to be used and, crucially, where you’ll carry it. Fixed-blade knives are favoured for bushcraft and wilderness use thanks to their extreme strength, reliability and ease of cleaning.

These knives are ideal for tough tasks like carving, fire preparation and fashioning emergency tent pegs, etc. Folding knives, on the other hand, are lighter, much more compact and better suited to general camping, food prep and lighter tasks like cutting rope and opening obstreperous packaging.

Blade steel quality and handle ergonomics matter, too, but so does legality. In the UK, you can only carry a non-locking folding knife with a blade under three inches in public without a reason. Fixed blades and locking folders are perfectly legal to own, but must only be transported directly to and from activities such as camping or bushcraft, and kept securely packed away.

While a suitable best tent is clearly the most vital ingredient for a relaxed night under the stars, few other camping items influence comfort, warmth and overall trip success quite so directly as the humble best sleeping bag.

Whether your priorities lean toward lightweight backpacking efficiency, spacious car-camping comfort or premium-level glamping luxury, sleeping bag manufacturers have got you covered with an eclectic range of bags from down-filled to synthetic, and at vastly different price points.

With this in mind, I’ve alighted on three sterling sleeping bags that have really impressed me in 2025 – bags that combine smart design, dependable performance and thoughtful features to help make your next camping trip go with a swing.

My favourite sleeping bags of 2025

Best overall

Rab Solar Ultra 2

Although it’s been on the market for a while, the T3 Platinum-awarded Rab Solar Ultra 2 is a thoroughly well designed three-season synthetic sleeping bag that delivers reliable warmth at an amazingly low price, at least for a Rab product.

Built around the Derbyshire-based company’s Stratus recycled insulation, TILT (Thermo Ionic Lining Technology) heat-reflective lining and 20D Atmos recycled polyester shell, the three-season Solar Ultra 2 offers an impressive 38gsm of loft for a synthetic bag, maintaining excellent thermal performance even in damp conditions.

At 1,140g, the Solar Ultra 2 isn’t the lightest option on the market and it doesn’t pack away as small as a down-equivalent model, but in our tests it has provided a consistent level of warmth across varied conditions, especially in the UK where nights can become quite chilly and damp.

I’m not a massive fan of tightly-tapered mummy-shaped sleeping bags but this one provides a little more room at the elbows and in the foot well, allowing for some extra wriggle room. I’m especially enamoured of this model’s adjustable hood, heat-trapping neck baffle, 3/4 length main zip with anti-snag zip insert and, uniquely, the inclusion of a mobile phone-cum-battery pocket that saves rummaging around in the dark.

If you’re in the market for a keenly-priced, eco-friendly and moisture-resistant synthetic bag for your spring to autumn adventures, the Rab Solar Ultra 2 remains my top choice for 2025.

Read our full review of the Rab Solar Ultra 2

Best for car camping

Quechua Arpenaz 0˚ Ultim Comfort

The Quechua Arpenaz 0° Ultim Comfort cotton sleeping bag from Decathlon is a decidedly non-technical choice in a market dominated by lightweight synthetics – and that’s one reason why I like it so much.

For starters, its rectangular design (225 x 80cm) and plush organic cotton lining create a duvet-like experience that feels so much more homely than a performance-oriented mummy-style bag. And because it’s rectangular, there’s plenty of leg room and internal space to stretch, sprawl or shift positions without feeling hemmed in.

Technically, this bag is built for temperate three-season use around 0°C and comes with 350gm polyester wadding for very decent insulation in periods like early spring and late autumn. I also love the sewn-in insulated neck warmers that pull out from recesses in the hood to lie in a criss-cross pattern across the neck area, and the fact that you can unzip the entire bag for use as a duvet or join it to another single to create a full-sized double.

This model excels in scenarios like car camping, glamping and laid-back outdoor nights where comfort trumps pure performance and you don’t have to worry about pack size and weight (in this instance 2.8 kilos).

However, you should bear in mind that the Arpenaz’s cotton interior, while soft and breathable, absorbs moisture more readily than synthetic fabric so it can initially feel a mite damp in very humid conditions.

Read my full review of the Quechua Arpenaz 0° Ultim Comfort

Best 3-season backpacker

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25˚

This adorable high-performance down-filled option from Colorado-based Big Agnes is one of the lightest and smallest sleeping bags I’ve ever seen – just 785g in weight and a tiny 25 x 20cm when stuffed into its moisture-resistant sack. Honestly, pulling it out of its sack is like one of those magic tricks – it just keeps on coming – and it’s just as seemingly impossible when stuffing it all back in which, incidentally, is performed with surprising ease. When laid, out it gradually expands into a voluminous cloud of cosy-giving warmth.

Constructed using 100% DownTek with an impressive 850 fill power, the Fly Creek’s amazing insulation is treated to resist moisture, maintaining its huge loft even in damp conditions and temperatures as low as -4˚C (25˚F). The diamond-quilted shell itself is made from ultra-light, recycled NetPlus ripstop nylon and finished with a durable water-repellent coating to further reduce moisture absorption. And unlike most technical bags, this one comes with a half-length, front-mounted YKK zip which I have found easier to use than the side-zip variety.

The Fly Creek regular measures 152cm in length, with a girth of 137cm and a narrow foot box of 92cm. If this seems a little too measly for you, consider the long version which has more length (160cm), a wider girth (145cm) and a slightly wider foot box (99cm).

If you’re a keen backpacker, bikepacker or mountain trekker who values extremely low weight and small pack size without compromising on outright warmth, the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° is a sterling choice and my favourite down option for 2025. Full review incoming!

Buying advice

Choosing the right sleeping bag depends on how, where and when you plan to use it. For backpacking, weight and packability are the top priorities, so look for lightweight down or advanced synthetic insulation, a tapered mummy shape to maximise thermal efficiency and a temperature rating that matches the coldest nights you expect. High fill-power goose down offers extra reassurance in cold weather at the expense of being more affected by damp conditions. But on the plus side, down-filled bags are much smaller and lighter to pack.

For car camping, comfort and space matter far more than weight and pack size, so choose a wider rectangular bag with thicker insulation and practical features like internal pockets, draft tubes for the neck area and, if necessary, the ability to zip two bags together.

If glamping, consider cotton, flannel or quilt-style designs that mimic your home bedding, along with generous sizing and attractive fabrics. Since portability isn’t an issue, you can prioritise warmth, texture and overall cosiness to elevate the experience. Perhaps even consider packing your duvet and a cotton sheet for the ultimate in glamping luxury.

The Hubba Hubba is one of the few tents that genuinely earns the word iconic. When MSR launched the original back in 2004, its clever ‘brow pole’ and freestanding hub design set a new benchmark for lightweight backpacking shelters.

It offered something unusual at the time: a tent light enough to carry, protective enough for 3+ seasons, and spacious enough for two people to sleep comfortably with their gear. Many brands have since followed the template, but the Hubba Hubba remains the reference point.

The company has refined the design over the years – including the popular MSR Hubba Hubba NX – and the family has grown to include everything from solo shelters to the bigger Mutha Hubba, plus bikepacking-specific versions, such as the MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2.

But 2026 marks the biggest step forward in more than two decades. Two fully reworked models, the ultralight Hubba Hubba LT and the more rugged Hubba Hubba HD, are arriving in Europe this January after an early US release. Both come in 1-, 2- and 3-person sizes and represent a complete reimagining of the platform.

I was invited to Cascade Designs’ European base in Cork this summer for an early look at the Hubba Hubba LT, and I’ve spent the past five months testing the LT2 in the wild. From long, wet hauls through the Wicklow Mountains to wind-battered pitches on Dartmoor’s tors, I’ve had plenty of time to see what this next-generation Hubba Hubba is really capable of.

MSR Hubba Hubba LT2 review

Price and availability

The Hubba Hubba LT 2-person tent is already available from Cascade Designs and retailers such as REI in the United States for a list price of $549.95 (the LT 1-person tent is $469.95 and the LT 3-person shelter is $629.95).

From January 2026, the LT2 will also be available in the UK and across the EU (RRP £560), as will the sturdier Hubba Hubba HD (RRP £590). Universal MSR tent footprints start from $48.95.

Specifications

• Style: Semi-geodesic dome
• Pack size: 51 x 14cm
• Inner dimensions: 2.24m x 1.32m
• Peak height: 1.02m
• Weight: 1.54kg
• Seasons: 2+
• Capacity: 2-person
• Vestibules: 2
• Fly: Solution-dyed 20D ripstop nylon, 1200mm polyether urethane & PFAS-free silicone
• Canopy: Tent body: Solution-dyed 20D polyester micromesh & Solution-dyed 20D ripstop nylon, 1800mm polyether urethane & PFAS-free DWR
• Floor: Solution-dyed 20D ripstop nylon, 1800mm polyether urethane & PFAS-free DWR
• Poles: DAC NFL 9.3mm
• Pitch time: 8–10 minutes
• Colour: Green
• Extras: Footprint

Design and materials

Viewed from the outside, the Hubba Hubba LT looks pretty similar to the NX. Working on the principle of 'it ain't broke, don't fix it', MSR's designers have retained the tried-and-tested symmetrical semi-geodesic dome shape.

Thich has proven itself more than capable of standing up to feisty winds, and the colour scheme is only subtly different (the new fly is a slightly lighter shade of green, still excellent for discreet pitching when you're wild camping).

Less obvious to the eye, but very important, the fabrics used in the lightweight nylon flysheet (plus the groundsheet and internal mesh walls) are solution dyed in the new model, which cuts carbon emissions by at least 80% (as compared to the materials previously used by MSR and others).

The new Hubba Hubba LT doesn’t have the highest hydrostatic head rating in the tent world (1,200mm for the fly and 1,800mm for the floor), but the tent is perfectly capable of keeping you dry, and the non-mesh elements of the main canopy have a HH of 1,800mm and have been coated with DWR.

If you want a solid 3-season shelter, though, you’ll need to go for the slightly heavier (1.80kg) but much more protective Hubba Hubba HD, which has less mesh and a flysheet with a hydrostatic head of 3,000mm.

Where the changes are more apparent is in the design of the DAC pole system. It remains a single-unit set-up, with an umbilicus connecting the pieces, but the four legs in the )–|–( shape have been lengthened, and that brow pole (a massive innovation when launched) has been extended, all of which increases the internal floor space of the tent, improves the headroom and lengthens the two vestibules.

The components used in the corner hardware (where the poles slot into the feet at the extremities of the groundsheet) have also been upgraded, with lightweight metal used to improve durability. The lightweight but impressively tough ‘mini groundhog’ pegs are also new.

The whole set-up, bag and all, weighs in at 1.54kg, which is 180g lighter than the NX (the minimum weight is actually 1.36kg, but you really have to strip it down to achieve this). For a spacious, high-performing 2-person tent, this is exceptionally light.

Performance on the trail

Immediately after collecting my test tent from Cascade Designs, I loaded it into my backpack and hit the trails, walking in the wonderful Wicklow Mountains and setting up camp in several places.

It was midsummer, and Ireland was in the grip of a most unusual heatwave (I’m far more used to fending off the driving rain when I’m in the Emerald Isle – there is a reason the country is so green), so I was instantly appreciative of the amount of mesh that has been employed in the construction of the LT’s inner.

The liberal use of this solution-dyed micromesh is one way MSR have shaved some grams from the carry weight of the new tent, but it’s also excellent for ventilation and airflow, ably assisted by the vents on the fly (more about those later).

I was even able to take the flysheet off entirely, to enjoy some sensational stargazing through the mesh, while being kept safe from the millions of midges that suddenly filled the mountain air.

Since summer, I have mainly been using the Hubba Hubba LT while wild camping on Dartmoor, where it has faced far cooler and more challenging conditions, including driving rain and high winds. The reduced weight and bulk of the shelter have been brilliant for packing it into such places, and I’m very impressed at how easy this tent is to carry on all kinds of backpacking adventures.

Considering its packability, it offers 5-star accommodation on the trails and at crags and campsites, with lots of room and numerous smart features that improve comfort levels and capability, from the rain gutters to the gear loft and internal clothes lines.

As mentioned above, there is considerably more floor space in this new design (32 sq ft in total), which means you can comfortably get two people side by side, even when using large camping mats such as the sumptuous Therm-a-Rest NeoLoft sleeping pad (a magnificent mattress that I’ve loved sleeping on this year).

If people are happy to use smaller mummy-shaped mats, and they all get on pretty well, then you could quite easily sleep three people in this tent. There is extra headroom too: just 2cm, but in the tight confines of a backpacking tent, it all makes a massive difference.

The shape of the vestibules is also different to the NX, with the porches on both sides being bigger (longer but slightly narrower), offering more storage space for hiking boots and walking shoes, and additional room for activities such as making a brew on a camping stove in wet weather.

The other significant change is to the design of the door openings, which have gone from the standard D to a triangular shape, with two separate zips meeting at the pointy bit. This increases the durability of the zips and means you always know where the puller is (handy when you can't find your head torch).

Lastly, cable ports have been added to the wall pockets, so you can plug things like smartwatches, phones, and speakers into powerpacks for use and charging, without wires dangling.

On the downside, while it’s nice to be able to use the inner tent as a standalone shelter on dry starry nights, when conditions are wet it would good to be able to put the tent up fly first, and that’s not possible with the Hubba Hubba LT.

Also, the increased use of micromesh is brilliant for keeping cool and reducing condensation in summer, but it does affect the insulating ability of the tent and means it’s quite chilly in colder conditions.

Whereas the older Hubba Hubba NX could handle 3 seasons (often more), now you need to choose between the lightweight Hubba Hubba LT or the more robust, protective, and warmer Hubba Hubba HD.

Lastly, something that became a real issue when I was camping on Dartmoor in windy conditions, the Velcro closures on the air vents in the new fly are sadly somewhat lacking. If you happen to pitch your tent with those openings facing the incoming wind, you’re in for a noisy night.

You also need to ensure the guys are pulled very tight, because those extended legs on the new pole system do bend in the wind and bash you in the face while you’re sleeping (or trying to).

Verdict

There are some genuinely great changes here, to an already excellent tent, and I really appreciated the additional headroom, floor and porch space while testing the LT2. The eco-conscious use of materials is excellent, and lots of the smaller tweaks and little additions genuinely add to the functionality of the tent.

It’s important to realise that the Hubba Hubba LT is very much a 2-season tent, and for a 3+ season shelter that will keep you cosy further into the darker, chillier months, you’ll need to go for the Hubba Hubba HD.

Also consider

Another superb lightweight 2-person backpacking shelter is the Nemo Dagger Osmo 2P Tent, which offers slightly less internal room but has better vestibules and lots of very good features.

For a (very slightly) heavier, but considerably more affordable 2-person backpacking shelter, check out the Alpkit Ordos 2. If you’re hiking alone – or prefer your own (very small room) while out on the trail – the Lifesystems Solo Peak Tent is an excellent microshelter for backpacking, fastpacking and bikepacking adventures.

Christmas is nearly upon us, and if you haven't already bought all your presents, now is the time to act. If anyone you know likes to host people outside their house, regardless of the weather, I just found the best present for them. After all, who doesn't like to receive a YETI gift set?

Shop all gift sets at YETI

The YETI Dip’n’Sip Set is a premium entertaining bundle built for good times with good company. Designed around YETI’s rugged, highly insulated Rambler lineup, this set includes a Rambler 2-quart insulated bowl, a Rambler 64-ounce pitcher, and two 16-ounce Rambler stackable cups.

Each component of this amazing set brings YETI’s signature performance to the table: the bowl uses double-wall vacuum insulation and durable 18/8 stainless steel to keep dips, sides, or snacks at the right temperature, while the pitcher features DuraSip ceramic lining and a twist-to-lock lid so cold beverages stay cold and pours stay smooth.

The stackable cups are splash-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and compatible with most cup holders, making them ideal for indoor gatherings or outdoor adventures alike.

This set is perfect for backyard barbecues, picnic days, or relaxed evenings catching up with a friend. Its thoughtful combination of serveware and drinkware makes hosting effortless, and buying the bundle usually delivers a noteworthy discount compared with purchasing the pieces separately.

Looking for something different? Check out T3's roundup of the best YETI deals right now.

While camping is great fun, it can also be a lot of hard work, but a few simple hacks can help save you some time and effort. That’s why we asked Wild Camping Specialist, Daniel Jones, to share his favourite camping hacks, to help make your outdoor adventure feel a little more effortless.

Whether you’re looking for a quick way to warm up your feet, have forgotten your favourite flashlight, or want to stop your water from freezing (that’s if you’re ballsy enough to brave camping in the cold), there’s a hack that will help.

1. Use a neck buff as a multi-purpose tool

Believe it or not, a neck buff can do far more useful than simply keeping you warm..."The simple neck buff can be used as a hat, to wipe your cook pot dry, help wipe condensation off the walls of your tent, and you can even wrap it around your wrist on those hot days to wipe sweat from your forehead," says Daniel. If you don't own one, you'll now probably want to.

2. Turn your water bottle into a lantern

Forgotten your camping lantern or flashlight? No stress, Dan says all you need is a clear water bottle and your phone torch. "A great way to give your tent some ambient light is to turn the light on your phone on and place the water bottle on top of it, making the water illuminate light around the tent."

3. Hold your camp pillow in place

Your pillow sliding around on your camping bed or camp mat is a one-way ticket to an uncomfortable night's sleep, which no one wants camping. But Daniel has an easy solution. "Take a t-shirt, neck buff, or any item of clothing you aren't wearing and slide it over your sleep mat and pillow, it will help prevent your pillow from sliding around."

4. Keep toes toasty with a rucksack

You've probably heard the saying 'if your feet are warm, you're warm' and if your feet are still cold, even with a thick pair of hiking socks, it's time to reach for your rucksack. "Place the foot of your sleeping bag in your empty rucksack as this will add another layer over your sleeping bag, creating a little more warmth," says Daniel. "It's amazing what an extra layer can do."

5. Tip your water bottle upside down

If you're brave enough to camp in the cold, one thing you'll want to try and avoid is your water freezing. "Ice forms from the top of any water source," explains Daniel. "So, keeping the opening of your bottle at the bottom will prevent the top of your water bottle from freezing, so you can still drink it in the morning."

6. Make your own hot water bottle

Another simple, yet effective way to keep you toasty, without the need to pack your actual hot water bottle. "On those cold nights, fill your bottle with hot water making sure it's water-tight, and place it in your sleeping bag," says Daniel. "Then, when it's time for bed, you'll have a nice warm sleeping bag, plus drinking water for when you wake up."

7. Save silica gel pouches 

Why exactly? "They're great to prevent rust in your cooking pots," says Daniel. "Pop a couple in your pot to keep it nice and dry and free of rust." If you don't have any, they can also be purchased online.

In the arena of backpacking tents, there’s one brand that consistently rises to the top of the review ratings, especially when it comes to camping in extreme weather conditions.

That brand is Hilleberg, a family-owned company based in Sweden that specialises in the manufacture of robust, high-altitude weather-resistant tents for adventurous backpackers, mountaineers, expeditionaries, off-piste bikepackers and kayakers.

I recently took delivery of the company’s popular Red Label Soulo model, a one-person, all-seasons tent designed mostly for autumnal and winter camping in areas where the weather can turn from gloriously sunny to a raging squall in mere minutes.

So what’s so good about the Soulo and why do the vast majority of its users rate it so highly? That’s what we’re here to find out.

Hilleberg Soulo Red Label Tent review

Price and availability

The Red Label Soulo is not cheap to buy, though there are some good deals to be found. If you purchase the tent directly from Hilleberg in Sweden, expect to pay £748 + VAT (£897) and delivery costs.

Alternatively, try some of Hilleberg’s UK dealers, including AlpineTrek (£892.95), Valley+Peak (£1,109.99), Taunton Leisure (£1,110) and Ultra Light Outdoor Gear (£1,039.99).

If you live in the USA, head to Barney’s Sports Chalet or Go Hunt where the Soulo sells for $995.

What’s so special about Hilleberg tents?

I’ve been reviewing tents and camping equipment since the 1990s, but I’ve never got around to checking out anything from the highly-regarded Swedish Hilleberg brand. Having covered so much gear over the years, I’ve become extraordinarily pernickety when it comes to the quality of the products I’m sent for review.

Most of the time, I’m commissioned to write a review of whatever comes my way (good or bad), but if it’s of my own volition, I do a remarkable amount of research first to get an idea of why so many others – reviewers and users – rate a particular product so highly. I then bite the bullet and call in a product loan sample to see what all the fuss is about.

That’s been the case with this review because I’d say that every user and pro analysis of practically any tent in the vast Hilleberg range has been almost unanimously positive. However, I will admit that most reviewers also mention the high prices of Hilleberg’s wares.

I mean, around £1,000 for a one-person tent? That’s not cheap by any stretch of the imagination. So what’s Hilleberg’s secret sauce, and why are their tents more expensive to buy than others?

First and foremost, Hilleberg tents are designed with durability and longevity in mind. We’re not talking a weekend summertime session on a campsite with ablutions, cafe and nighttime entertainment, though they do produce a line of tents that are perfectly suitable for such scenarios.

For the majority of the company’s models – specifically those in the Red and Black label categories – we’re talking halfway-up-a-mountain stuff in a raging storm with howling winds and horizontal rain belting the bejesus out of anything in its path. The kind of weather-related scenario that can spell doom if a tent should explode in tatters at 3 A.M., with two feet of snow piling up outside.

Every tent in the Hilleberg range is built in the company’s own facilities in Estonia, and every individual tent is signed off by the sewing technician who made it. That same tent is then erected for quality control inside the factory and inspected by someone else before it’s boxed up for export. This level of accountability inevitably slows production but dramatically increases consistency, as many Hilleberg users have noted.

Furthermore, Hilleberg is renowned for only using the very best and most expensive materials the company can get its hands on. Take their proprietary Kerlon fabrics, for example. They sent me a comprehensive brochure with the Soulo tent I’m reviewing here, and it contains a selection of Kerlon swatches (each one with a scissor cut), along with a swatch of ‘commonly-used’ ripstop material that many other manufacturers might use.

After a couple of attempts, I managed to rip a decent swathe of the commonly-used stuff, but I absolutely could not budge the Kerlon 1000 or Kerlon 1200 (as used for the Soulo), let alone any of the other, even tougher samples. For the record, the Kerlon range spans several levels of strength, from Kerlon 1000 to Kerlon 2500.

These fabrics deliver exceptional tear strength for their weight – often several times that of commonly used polyurethane-coated nylons. This is the type of material you could accidentally puncture with your crampons, and the perforations will not budge. It’s exceedingly waterproof, too. For instance, the Hilleberg Soulo we’re looking at here sports a hydrostatic head of 5,000mm for the flysheet and a robust 15,000mm for the floor. That’s about as good as it gets.

As a result, Kerlon fabrics are much more expensive to produce and are allegedly harder to sew. A similar story applies to the company’s DAC aluminium poles, heavy-duty guy lines and points, rain gutters and reinforced areas. Nothing here is made from cheaper options, so the result is a lot of expensive gear that stays intact after years of Arctic winds, mountain storms and high levels of UV.

Hilleberg clearly doesn’t cater to the budget weekend camper. Instead, the company’s core audience includes committed four-season backpackers, polar travellers and mountaineers who value reliability far above price.

Because that market is inevitably smaller and expects top-tier performance, Hilleberg clearly invests heavily in durability and craftsmanship, and the cost of its products reflects the level of care expected from the kind of gear that could quite literally save one’s life.

For most people, a mid-range tent is more than adequate. But for users heading into hostile, remote or unpredictable environments, Hilleberg’s premium pricing buys something that’s difficult to quantify but is absolutely vital when the going gets tough – trust. That’s why these tents are so expensive – you get what you pay for.

Understanding Hilleberg’s colour-coded tent labelling system

Black Label

To make it easier for prospective buyers to choose the right tent from a bewilderingly large range, Hilleberg has created a selection of colour-coded product categories. The Black category is the true all-weather winter option, built with the toughest, heaviest materials designed to withstand a blizzard in the Alps or a raging mountain-top rainstorm. If you’re trekking off-piste in very cold weather and don’t mind hauling more weight (around 2.8kgs) for bomb-proof reliability, this is the option for you.

Red Label

These tents are for year-round use and suitable for high-altitude backpacking during spring, autumn and winter, temperatures and snowfalls permitting. Red Label tents are also suitable for most high-altitude camping in the UK during summer. They are not as heavily built as those in the Black label range (around 1.8 kgs) and are therefore more easily carried a fair distance. The Red Label Soulo we are reviewing here uses Kerlon 1200 fabric, though a Black Label version using Kerlon 1800 is also available.

Yellow Label

If you’re backpacking in spring, summer or early autumn, opt for a tent in the Yellow Label range. These tents are the perfect weight for long trekking trips, though they're not suitable for winter use in colder climates. A model like the one-person Niak weighs just 1.7 kgs.

Blue Label

Blue Label tents are designed for all-season group use, whether for sleeping together or as a gathering shelter. At around 11 to 26 kilos, these 6- to 14-person shelters are best transported by vehicle.

Specifications

• Seasons: 4
• Style: Dome
• Sleeps: 1
• Pack size: 43 x 17cm (16.9 x 6.7in)
• Packed weight: 2.4 kg (5lb 5oz)
• Floor area: 1.9 m² (20.5 ft²)
• Vestibule area: 0.6 m² (6.5 ft²)
• Inner tent height: 95cm (39.4in)
• Canopy Fabric: 30D Kerlon 1200 with silicone treatment
• Floor fabric: 70D nylon 
• Rainfly Hydrostatic Head: 5,000mm
• Floor Hydrostatic Head: 15,000 mm

Pitching process

I can’t think of a more intuitive tent to pitch than this little tyke. Firstly, the bag that the tent, its poles and pegs come in is oversized, so no matter how badly you fold it up, you can be sure it’ll all fit back in with ease.

Like the similarly excellent MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-person, 3-season tent I recently reviewed, the Soulo is a freestanding tent which can be moved around the pitch or its position changed according to the wind direction when fully erected.

However, unlike the MSR, which pitches the inner-tent first, this one pitches with the inner tent attached and, if you’ve opted for one, the optional footprint groundsheet, too. This means that the inner tent will never get wet when pitching in the rain. And since the Soulo is erected from the ground upwards, no amount of wind will ever affect the pitching process (see video above).

Forget checking an instruction manual because you really won’t need one. If it's windy, I would suggest pegging down the four corners of the tent first to prevent it from blowing away.

Now simply feed the two long poles into the robust sleeves on all four corners and do the same thing using the shorter pole across the centre. Voila, you now have a three-pole construction to which you can attach the myriad of sturdy C clips.

To do this, walk around the tent while you attach two to three clips at a time. Finish off by attaching as many guy lines – there are 12 of them – as you think you’ll need, and that’s it. It really couldn’t be any easier.

Aside from the ease of pitching, what especially impressed me during the assembly process was the precise fit and finish of every panel and connection point. Everything snapped into place to create an extremely taut dome with absolutely no creases anywhere. Very satisfying.

Design and comfort

The Hilleberg Red Label Soulo (meaning ‘island’ in northern Scandinavian Sami) is an asymmetrical one-person, four-season shelter aimed at autumn-and-winter backpackers, solo alpinists, adventurous bikepackers, kayakers and anyone who needs a small, bombproof refuge for when the weather turns nasty.

The red colour I received makes the tent very easy to spot in whiteout conditions, which is a welcome safety consideration when used in winter. It also looks ravishingly good in red. However, the Soulo is also available in dark green and brown for campers who prefer their tents to meld into the landscape.

For those who require even more sturdiness against the elements, the Soulo is also available in the Black Label range, with tougher Kerlon 1800 fabric and slightly thicker poles.

This tent has a tidy, compact footprint, and because it’s freestanding and pitched as one with an inner tent pre-attached – including the optional footprint groundsheet for added floor protection – you can not only move the Soulo around once erected, but it can also be pitched in driving rain without anything getting wet on the inside. And that’s worth its weight in gold, which in this instance is 2.4 kilos.

In the pantheon of backpacking tents, that’s about a kilo more than most 3-season models, but you have to remember that we’re talking about a 4-season tent here, one that has been demonstrated time and again to withstand the worst that nature can throw at it. Yes, it will feel heavier in the backpack, and you might not be able to travel as far without stopping for a rest, but that’s the price one pays for peace of mind when the weather suddenly goes pear-shaped.

Inside, this tent is as cosy as cosy can be, with more than enough space for a solo camper. I measured the Soulo’s inner length at very close to 2.24m (7.34 feet). However, because there’s some inevitable vertical sloping on the head end when sleeping, someone taller than six feet may find that their head touches the inner fabric when sleeping.

The width of this tent at its widest point is 100cm, and that means there’s a decent amount of space to the side for loose clothing and other accoutrements. Since the inner living area tapers at the ends, I measured 70cm of width at the head end and 60cm at the foot end. In a nutshell, there’s more than enough space to sleep comfortably and store essential gear under cover, plus some smaller items in the two provided side pockets.

As a bonus for car and bike campers who are able to carry a little more, the Soulo's sleeping area also easily fits a standard Helinox camping cot like the Helinox Cot One Convertible. Rather handily, the cot can be assembled outside the tent and simply popped inside when both inner-tent entrances are unzipped. Believe me, having a cot along for the ride adds a whole new level of comfort, especially if pitching on stony ground.

In terms of head clearance, this model has 95cm of headroom, which could be a bit tight for taller folk. I’m 5’6”, and my head has four inches of clearance when sitting with my bum on the floor in the most central position.

When kneeling, however, I have one inch of clearance in the centre, but the top of my hair brushes the top of tent when sitting a little further back. For my height, these dimensions are just fine, perfect even.

The triangular vestibule space, too, is usefully sized for a single person to stash wet boots, backpack and cooking kit while keeping the sleeping area bone dry. You could feasibly cook here, too, if you unzip most of the rain fly for ventilation (a must if cooking with gas). This area also benefits from having the optional footprint groundsheet, which I wholeheartedly recommend.

The Soulo comes with one expandable inner doorway with an integrated mesh panel, and it’s very well designed to allow entrance and exit with little hassle. Comprised of two zips on the left – one vertical, the other horizontal – the inner door can be opened halfway during inclement weather or, if using the third horizontal zip on the right, fully opened for appreciating any fine views.

The Soulo’s outer doorway has a single vertical zip that’s covered its entire length by a robust plastic rain guard. Simply roll up and attach the outer fly’s door to the elasticated tag to keep it secure. And fear not if the wind’s battering the front because there’s a small floor-mounted tab attached for securing the zip’s pull tab. These Hilleberg folk, it seems, have thought of everything.

Features and build quality

Let’s get down to the Soulo’s features, materials and overall build quality. Crucially, the asymmetric geometry of this tent keeps the profile low for high winds while still offering enough internal space to fend off any feelings of claustrophobia.

The Soulo’s dome construction is comprised of multiple pole crossing points that provide exceptional rigidity, superb rain protection and an impressive ability to handle large dollops of snow.

The poles themselves are of the 9mm DAC Featherlite NSL aluminium alloy variety, and they’re pre-bent for easier pitching and reduced stress. You get two 3.44m poles for the corners of the tent and one shorter 2.85cm pole for the centre section – all six ends fit snuggly into a set of long, reinforced sleeves for ease of pitching and, more importantly, insane levels of sturdiness.

I also love the quality of the pole clips and reinforced webbing that spreads any stress at the contact points over a wide four-inch area. In fact, if you spend a little more money, you can buy a second set of poles and have both sets installed for unbridled strength in very high winds.

Hilleberg’s tents are known for using high-quality technical fabrics and for treating their fabrics to balance strength, weight and weather resistance. The Soulo’s outer Kerlon 1200 fabric has a microscopically tight weave that is impossible to rip while still being light enough to suit any wilderness adventures. Helleberg's Kerlon 1200 (equivalent to 30 Dernier ripstop) is triple-coated with silicone to produce a hydrostatic head of 5,000. It’s treated for UV resistance, too. A separate clip-on canopy is also included for extra rain resistance.

If the outer tent’s fabric is outstandingly weather poof, the inner tent’s floor section is even more robust, sporting a hydrostatic head of a magnificent 15,000. As you would expect from a brand that doesn’t compromise in any areas, all seams are factory-sealed, and all stress points use heavier webbing and reinforced fabric patches. Even the inner tent has some form of treatment for water repellence.

This tent comes with 18 peg points: six ground anchoring points and 12 guy points on the outer fly. However, you only get 12 super lightweight aluminium V-shaped pegs in the bag, so opt for another six in case you ever need them.

At this point, I must give a resounding shout-out to the robust, tangle-free nylon guy lines. There is no need to tie these up when packing up because they will not tangle. Instead, chuck them willy-nilly over the centre of the canopy when disassembled, and they’ll be ready for a quick pitch at your next location.

Since this tent is ostensibly designed for cold-weather use, the outer flysheet is completely flush with the ground. This helps the tent retain heat in cold weather at the expense of retaining internal moisture, or condensation as we know it (I’d say the internal temperature is 2˚C to 4˚C warmer inside than it is out, and that’s a major bonus when the temperature’s plummeting).

Granted there is a large triangular ventilation hole on top of the outer fly which you can unzip to create better airflow to reduce condensation, and you can improve on this by unzipping the inner tent’s doorway to expose the full meshed section, too.

However, because the tent is so well sealed in general, it’s impossible to completely eradicate condensation in really cold weather, so always carry an absorbent chamois or cloth to carefully wipe the inside of the inner tent from time to time.

This is especially important when the wind is blowing, as it can cause condensation droplets to fall on the occupant. Personally, I’d have liked to see a second vent on the other side to increase airflow through the tent. But then two vents would let in even more cold air, and I’d rather deal with some internal dampness than freeze like an ice lolly.

If you value expert engineering and premium finish, the Soulo delivers on all fronts. The seams are straight as a ruler and exceedingly well-taped, with attachment points and guy-line anchors that are reinforced in all the right places for stress reduction and long-term durability. In short, the build quality here is faultless and to an astonishingly high standard throughout.

Performance

Where the Soulo has earned its five-star reputation is during real-world use and, heaven knows, there are enough videos out there with users heaping high praise on its ability to withstand the elements.

I’ll admit that I didn’t take this tent up a mountain during a storm, partly because there are no mountains in Oxfordshire but mostly because I’m a wimp when it comes to hardcore mountain camping. I do know my tents, though, and this model has impressed me on so many levels.

In high winds of 40mph-plus, the tent’s low, taut profile and well-placed guy points give it confidence-inspiring rigidity while the sloping panels encourage snow to slide rather than accumulate. And when temperatures plunge, the Soulo holds in warmth better than any lightweight summer tent could – and without it becoming unbearably stuffy.

I know this because I spent quite a while in it in a field during a -1˚C cold snap. Yes, some condensation had gathered after spending time in it, but the triangular vent certainly helped keep it moderate.

I’ve seen one scary video of this tent withstanding a full-blown mountain storm with gusts of up to 73mph. Naively, I tried to recreate some semblance of wind myself using two high-powered leaf blowers, and I feel like a right twit for even attempting it. While the air pressure pushed the outer fabric inwards, the tent and the poles never budged. Of course they didn’t! What was I expecting?

I then tried a waterproofing test by blasting the side of the tent with a hosepipe on the jet and sprinkler settings for five minutes. I basically aimed at all areas, including under the outer tent’s small, top-mounted canopy, expecting at least some droplets to appear on the outer tent’s optional groundsheet footprint, but I’m pleased to say that it was bone dry.

I’ve never been a big fan of one-person tents when a two-person option offers so much more internal space, albeit at the expense of a little more weight to carry. But this model has sold me on the concept. After I’d kitted it out with a soon-to-be-reviewed NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight insulated sleeping pad and Big Agnes Fly Creek UL 25° sleeping bag, I didn't want to get out. It just felt so wonderfully cocooning, cosy and safe – and that was when it was set up in the garden!

I can now easily see why so many hard-core campers have gone for the Soulo, along with a slew of other Hilleberg models. Its impeccable build quality, clever design and choice of superior materials instil a high level of confidence when going it alone in the great wide open.

Verdict

The Hilleberg Soulo Red Edition is a refined one-person all-season tent that can withstand most of what nature can throw at it. If you spend time soloing in winter, heading into high winds, or touring where repair options are few and far between, the Soulo’s build quality, expert material choices and proven design flourishes inspire a huge amount of confidence.

That said, this tent isn’t for everyone. If your trips are mostly comprised of short summer weekend camps where every gram matters, the Soulo will feel like overkill. But if your priority is a tent that will keep you safe, dry and relatively comfortable when the weather turns crappy with a capital C, this is a shelter that will likely become a trusted piece of your kit for years and possibly decades.

With a raft of mini heatwaves and far less rain than usual, I think it’s safe to say that Mother Nature has helped make 2025 one of the best camping years for outdoor enthusiasts, specifically in the UK and Europe.

And whether it’s luxury glamping, weekend car camping, festival going or backpacking in the wilderness, tent manufacturers have had our backs covered and produced a wide and very eclectic range of technical outdoor shelters for every conceivable scenario.

With this in mind, I’ve selected the three best tents in my ever-expanding armoury, and each one serves a purpose, whether it’s a weekend jaunt with my partner and two Labradors, a solo off-grid backpacking session in Wales or a luxurious family rest under a swathe of off-white canvas.

There are plenty of great alternatives in our guides to the best standard tents, best backpacking tents and best pop-up tents, but for my money, these three clinch the podium.

These are my favourite tents of 2025

Best overall

MSR Hubba Hubba NX

I tested this sterling 2-person, 3-season tent during the summer and it has become my go-to weekend backpacker. At 1.72 kilos (3lb 7oz), the MSR Hubba Hubba NX is a fraction heavier than some of the competition, but any extra grams can be considered negligible when its impressive range of thoughtful design flourishes is taken into account, including the extra living space and the addition of two entrances and two vestibules.

This freestanding tent – available in dark green or grey – is pitched inner-first using a double Y-shaped pole system that attaches to one of the most spacious and airy inner-tents on the market.

However, if it’s raining while you pitch, you’ll need to act quickly, or the inner may get wet before you’ve even started. On the other hand, if the weather is fine and warm, I would recommend foregoing the outer fly so you can enjoy a star-gazing experience under the red-and-white inner’s copious amount of no-see-‘em mesh.

And if the weather changes for the worse, simply unfurl the highly water-resistant outer and attach it to each corner of the tent for safe protection against the elements.

Unlike most two-person backpacking tents, the Hubba Hubba NX’s inner tent is rectangular and taper-free with plenty of space for two, though you’d naturally be better off keeping it all to yourself. Build quality throughout is exceptional, which is hardly surprising given that this model – and others in the MSR range – is a top choice among a myriad of committed backpackers. It’s a winner all the way.

Read my full review of the MSR Hubba Hubba NX

Best 3-person backpacker

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 XL

This impressive 3-person ultralight shelter from the Colorado-based house of Big Agnes is a perfect fit for two but equally accommodating for three.

Although it’s ostensibly designed for 3-season backpacking, I think its spaciousness makes it a perfect retreat for couples looking for a simple weekend break, whether it’s visiting a traditional campsite or embarking on a brief trek into the hinterland.

At 1.83kg (64.6oz), it’s certainly light enough for two to handle on a long trek and insignificantly light enough for any form of conventional camping, whether cycling or arriving by car.

This freestanding model not only looks fantastic – it’s available in Lichen Green or Tangelo Orange – but it sports a plethora of tantalising design details, including a spacious rectangular interior with two vestibules and two entrances, so occupants don’t have to crawl over each other to get in and out.

You also get silk-like proprietary HyperBead fabric that sports an ample hydrostatic head of 1,500 for rain repellence, a robust DAC Featherlite NFL pole system and storage areas galore, including an oversized bin pocket for your down jackets, as well as a gaggle of smaller mesh pockets littered around the interior. The fact that it all erects in just five minutes is the cherry on top.

Read our full review of the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 XL

Best luxury tent

Lotus Belle Air Bud

Despite the presence of some amazing synthetic tent fabrics on the market, nothing compares to the pleasantries of kipping under breathable canvas, or polycotton to give it its accurate description. With polycotton around you, there’s hardly any condensation, rain doesn’t make a racket and internal temperature levels are much more comfortable to live with. If looked after, the fabric also lasts for years with no UV degradation.

Take the UK-designed Air Bud, for instance. This off-white inflatable air-beam model measures 3m in diameter and 2.40m at its tallest point, and since there is no central pole to get in the way, it comfortably fits two or a small family of three under its single-skinned, environment-friendly polycotton flysheet.

For its weight (a substantial 31kgs) and size, the Air Bud couldn’t be easier to pitch. In fact, I pitched it on my own, though I would recommend an electric air pump for the air-beam frame, which makes the inflation process a lot less energy-intensive.

This adorable yurt-like safari tent delivers in spades when it comes to internal space, build quality, weather resistance, ambience and overall aesthetics. Unlike most modern tents, you are only offered a single space here (with sewn-in groundsheet, enormous entrance and two large portholes).

Still, it’s large enough to accommodate a luxury double air bed with plenty of room for lazing on a chair while you gawp at its beautiful internal construction, safe in the knowledge that you chose the best tent on the entire campsite.

Read my full review of the Lotus Belle Air Bud

Other recommendations

Best option for mountainous backpacking

Hilleberg Soulo

If you’re a committed mountain-top camper, you might not find a better all-season, one-person tent than this bomb-proof contribution from Sweden.

Best tent for families

Decathlon Quechua Air Seconds 5.2 Fresh & Black

Decathlon is a major force in the world of camping and this cavernous 5-person air tent with twin black-out bedrooms is an exceptional option for longer car-camping stints.

Best budget tent

Coleman Spruce Falls 4

When it comes to conventional family camping, you can’t go wrong with a Coleman. This four-person tent has a bedroom on either side of its living area, impressive headroom of 2.05m and a very high hydrostatic head of 4,500mm for reliable rain resistance.

Best roof-top tent

Dometic TRT 120E

If you fancy a spot of roof-top camping, Dometic should be among your first ports of call. The TRT 120E isn’t cheap, but it pitches electrically via your car’s 12v battery or a suitable portable power station. Once up, this all-season model comfortably sleeps two and is one of the best options for convenience.

Buying advice

Choosing the right tent comes down to understanding where you’ll use it, how often and in what conditions. So start by deciding on capacity: a two-person tent is fine for couples, but if you value comfort or carry lots of kit, size up to a 3- or even a 4-person variant. Next, consider the tent’s season rating. A three-season tent will suit most spring-to-autumn trips, while a four-season model will be built for harsh winds, heavy rain, snowfall, and winter reliability.

Weight also plays a major role. Backpackers, for instance, should prioritise lighter designs, while car campers can afford something roomier and heavier. Make sure to look closely at materials, poles and overall construction quality because a sturdy frame, durable fabrics and reliable waterproofing make all the difference when the weather turns nasty.

Likewise, check if the tent has decent ventilation because synthetic tent fabrics are not breathable, and this leads to condensation, especially in humid or cold conditions. Finally, think about ease of pitching (lightweight backpacking and inflatable tents are usually the easiest) and don’t forget to consider the tent’s packed size, especially if backpacking or bikepacking.

A company that specialises in producing gear for adventure travel and outdoor pursuits, British brand Lifesystems has been making good safety equipment, including bivvy bags and emergency shelters, for some time, but this is their first foray into the backpacking tent market, so I was very interested to see what they came up with.

My first impressions of the Solo Peak tents were positive: with one main pole and a mostly mesh inner, it’s light to carry and fits easily into a hiking backpack or even a larger running pack, and the design looked decent. The proof in the pudding, of course, would be how it performed once I had it pitched, out on the trail.

I took delivery of this tent late in the year, so although it’s not really designed with winter in mind, timing dictated that I test it – and myself (and my colder weather sleeping bag and camping mat) – in the challenging conditions of late November and early December in wet and wild England (see what we do for you guys?). Packing my bag and staring at a bleak forecast, I was desperately hoping it would be as good as it looked. Read on to see how I fared.

Lifesystems Solo Peak Tent review

Price and availability

The Solo Peak tent is available now directly from Lifesystems and also from online and brick-and-mortar retailers, including Decathlon. Full price it is £229.99 (~$306 / €262 / A$463) for the main tent, with extras such as the Footprint (£29.99) and the Porch (£19.99) costing more. (I highly recommend getting the footprint.)

You can also get an extra peg set for £7.99 (and you only get enough stakes to peg the Solo Peak out properly with the standard set-up, so it's worth having some spares).

Specifications

• Style: Lightweight, single pole shelter
• Pack size: 32 x 15 x 12cm
• Inner dimensions (W x L): 75–50cm x 250cm
• Peak height: 90cm
• Weight: 1000g
• Seasons: 3
• Capacity: 1 person
• Vestibules: 1
• Fly fabric: 20D Siliconised nylon with taped seams (HH 3,000mm)
• Groundsheet: Nylon (HH 3,000mm)
• Poles: 2
• Pegs:  10
• Pitch time: 5–10 minutes
• Colour: Grey
• Extras: Footprint / Porch / Peg set

Design and materials

The Solo Peak tent is made primarily with 20D siliconised nylon – a good option for a tent where low weight is the absolute priority. The seams are taped, and both the fly and the groundsheet have a hydrostatic head rating of 3,000mm, which is impressive for such a lightweight and reasonably priced shelter.

The inner has a bucket floor to keep water from seeping in, but is primarily made of mesh, which is why the carry weight is so low. This does affect the tent's thermal properties (see below), making it best suited to non-winter adventures and more modest peaks.

There is one main pole that slides through a sleeve in the fly sheet, and the two ends then slot into sockets. This creates the hoop that provides the shelter's main structure. A small pole then needs to be fitted to the foot end of the fly, after which you peg out the sheet and tension it.

The tent arrives pre-assembled, with the inner already attached to the fly with a series of clips, which is intended to make pitching faster and fuss-free, but the first time I put this tent up (in a cutting late-November wind), I found this to be confusing, and soon detached the inner from the outer. In my opinion, it’s far easier to pitch the fly on its own, and then you can clip the inner into place in a mere minute.

The components are all good-quality, and the tent comes with YKK anti-snag main zips, 1.8 mm Dyneema guy-lines and lightweight aluminium poles and pegs (the latter are fitted with quick pull cord loops to make it easier for you to pull them out of the ground).

A pole repair kit is included, and the square-shaped stuff sack isn’t too tight (an absolute blessing when you want to break camp and move on quickly). Lastly, the neutral colour allows you to be very discreet while wild camping.

Performance

Did I mention that I tested this tent in November and December? Well, I did, and on my maiden voyage with the Solo Peak, it absolutely lashed it down with rain overnight, and the wind blew a hooley. But the tent stayed put and kept me completely dry, and considering it’s not designed or intended as a winter shelter, that’s pretty impressive.

Achieving the correct amount of tension is a little bit of a faff (and some confusing loops and hoops on the fly appear to be there for stakes to go through, but if you do peg them all out, the profile of the tent is impacted). If you don’t get it right and tension the rig nicely and taut, the fly sheet can be very noisy in the wind. As with all tents, you tend to refine the process a little bit every time you pitch it.

As per above, I found it easier to pitch the Solo Peak fly first, and then attach the inner – rather than wrestle with the whole shebang in the wind. The design of this tent means you can quickly get the outer up, keep your kit dry while you tension it, and then get in and out of the elements while you fix up the inner.

It’s also easier to dry the layers separately and fold them all away, but some people may prefer to keep the inner attached to the fly.

As the name suggests, this shelter is intended for solo adventures (or at least people who like their own room, rather than sharing) who are travelling fast and light, so it’s obviously relatively compact – the hiking equivalent of a capsule hotel room.

As such, the shape tapers from 75cm at the head and shoulders end to 50cm at the feet. This is no place for doing yoga or swinging cats, but once inside the tent, I found it to be spacious and long enough for me (and I’m a fairly tall bloke – 186cm), with a reasonable amount of headroom (100cm) for sitting up and getting sorted.

I love the fact that there is a decent-sized vestibule on this tent – a rare luxury on a one-person ultralight shelter. This means you can stash your pack and hiking boots somewhere they’re not exposed to the elements, without cluttering or muddying the main compartment.

If you invest in the optional Porch (which is a bit basic and feels overpriced, in all honesty), you could potentially shelter from light rain while using a camping stove (as ever, great caution is needed when using a stove close to a tent).

The inner is almost entirely made from mesh, which is excellent for keeping the carry weight down and insects out, while allowing plenty of airflow in. It does, of course, mean that the insulation levels are considerably lower than those of tents with less cold-porous fabric inners.

As I was testing the tent in the winter, I had to use a camping mat with a high R rating and a cold-weather sleeping bag (rather than the sort of lightweight sleeping bag you’d ideally pair this tent with), and I could feel the chill on my face, but with the right supplementary gear, it was comfortable enough.

The main thing was the tent kept its footings, and the (at times torrential) rain did not get through. The groundsheet did its job too, in some very conditions, although I was glad I had the footprint.

I did encounter some minor frustrations – there are barely enough stakes to use all the loops and the guy ropes, and the placement of some of the peg eyelets was questionable (including one for the inner that’s right by the door, making me fret about stepping on it every time I got in and out).

There are minimal internal features, and the stash pocket on the inside (the one flourish) is very flimsy. But that is a minor grumble, and overall, I was a dry, warm and happy camper while using the Solo Peak for quick-paced adventures.

Verdict

Despite trail testing the Lifesystems Solo Peak tent completely out of season, I’ve been really impressed with how this incredibly lightweight shelter stood up to the challenging conditions. It proved to be reliably rainproof, and the designers have successfully achieved a balance between keeping bulk down while providing enough space for backpacking campers to be comfortable. It’s also pretty reasonably priced, although the extras (the footprint and the 'porch' are a bit pricey in my opinion.

Some alternatives to consider

For the serious gram-shaving ultralight enthusiasts out there (and those doing multiday races) who think 1kg is too much to cart around, the Vango F10 Neon UL1 is worth exploring; it tips the scales at just 509g and boasts a hydrostatic head of 2,000mm, but the price tag is considerably heavier and I'm still not sure about the toothpick-style stakes.

It's not quite as light as the Solo Peak, but the Alpkit Soloist is a good budget one-person shelter, which kept me dry in the wilds of Scotland during a soggy October odyssey along the West Highland Way.

If you’re exploring with a trail buddy or just want a bit more room for yourself, the Nemo Dagger Osmo is an excellent 2-person lightweight tent. Or, if you do most of your lightweight adventuring on two wheels rather than two feet, definitely check out the excellent Hubba Hubba Bikepack range of shelters from MSR.

YETI’s Black Friday run has been intense this year.

The Gear Garage drops have been landing every day with limited edition colours, surprise restocks and UK-exclusive pieces, while the brand also found time to launch a new shaker bottle that everyone predictably went wild for.

Among all the noise, one thing stood out to me more than any sale or surprise release. It is a wool blanket. A very nice wool blanket.

That blanket is the YETI x Pendleton limited edition collaboration that quietly appeared alongside all the Gear Garage goods in the US.

Pendleton has been weaving wool for over a century, and its blankets are already cult items.

Add YETI’s obsession with durability and outdoor-leaning design (see also: best YETI coolers), and you get something that looks built for cosy winter evenings, whether that is on the sofa or inside a cabin somewhere cold enough to justify a second hot chocolate.

Knitted heritage energy

The blanket is made from 82 per cent virgin wool and 18 per cent cotton, with a napped finish that gives it extra loft and softness.

YETI positions it as an indoor blanket, and that makes sense. It is not designed for muddy campsites or the back of a pickup truck.

Instead, it is a weighty, warm, almost decorative piece that sits somewhere between functional winter staple and future heirloom.

It measures 64 by 54 inches and weighs 2.8 pounds, which means it has that satisfying heft you only really get from proper woollen throws.

As expected from a premium textile, it is dry clean only, and YETI backs it with a three-year warranty.

The price sits at 300 dollars, which sounds steep until you remember Pendleton alone sells blankets at similar prices.

With the YETI branding and limited edition nature added on top, this might end up being the one product that collectors genuinely chase long after the sale ends.

The YETI x Pendleton Wool Blanket is available now at YETI for $300 (~£226 / AU$457 / €258) – probably not for long!

If you thought Black Friday was going to be the biggest shopping moment of the year, think again!

YETI has not only quietly launched a few Black Friday deals in the US (which it calls 'Holiday Sale'), but it has also flipped the calendar with its Gear Garage Sale.

Shop the YETI Garage Sale in the UK

Shop the YETI Garage Sale in the US (starting 11.28)

The Garage Sale is already live in the UK, with a full six days of exclusive drops starting now.

Meanwhile, across the pond in the US, the sale begins on Black Friday (November 28) and runs just four days.

For YETI fans, this means early access, plenty of surprises, and deals you might not want to wait for.

What is the Gear Garage Sale?

YETI’s Gear Garage Sale is essentially a limited-time blowout of new and experimental gear from the brand.

Some of the stuff will only exist for the duration of the sale, while other pieces sometimes make it into the permanent collection, like the Hondo Beach Chair.

The items in the sale aren't technically cheaper. In fact, they often are full price, but you get the sense of exclusivity if you buy them.

In the UK, the Gear Garage Sale is staggered over a six-day window, giving shoppers a better chance of getting hot-ticket items before they sell out.

Grab your cooler by the horns

This year's highlight – this is the first day of the sale, mind – is easily the YETI Slick Horns, a bold, quirky accessory that transforms a regular cooler into a talking-point centrepiece.

Clip the horns onto a YETI Tundra cooler (or compatible model), tie it down via the AnchorPoint system, and suddenly your cooler isn’t just functional, it’s got personality.

At £125 (~$155 / €145 / AU$235), Slick Horns are among the most playful, offbeat pieces in the collection.

It’s easy to see why Slick Horns might become the de facto hero product of this Gear Garage drop: it’s unexpected, it’s fun, and it channels YETI’s rugged-outdoor aesthetic with a wink.

Other Gear Garage Sale picks

The Slick Horns are great, but the YETI Can Crusher is nothing to be frowned upon, either.

Built tough with YETI’s signature ruggedness, this crusher helps you flatten and store empty cans cleanly.

It squeezes cans down so they take up far less space, and its sturdy build means it’ll survive real-world abuse.

It costs the same as the Slick Horns, and it’s a smart, practical add-on for anyone who loves YETI’s gear ethic but also appreciates a little daily convenience.

Beyond the horns and the can crusher, so far the drop includes more conventional – but still solid – gear: lots of bowls.

Because stock tends to be limited, these items often sell out fast, but that’s part of the appeal: you get premium gear, sometimes with finishes or colours you won’t see in regular retail runs.

For fans of outdoor gear, tailgating, camping or just showing off a cooler with attitude, the Gear Garage Sale is a rare chance to grab premium YETI kit that's also unique.

Shop the YETI Garage Sale in the UK

Shop the YETI Garage Sale in the US (starting 11.18)

With staggered UK drops and a full Black Friday US run upcoming, there’s no guarantee everything will still be in stock if you wait.

If you want my take: grab the Slick Horns now, and maybe one of the can crushers or rugged bowls while you’re at it.

Black Friday always brings a few standout outdoor deals, and this year, one of the biggest surprises comes from Ninja. The brand’s FrostVault 30QT/28L Wheeled Cooler, a genuinely tough, premium, YETI-rival ice chest, has dropped from £249.99 to £129.99, its lowest price to date!

Shop the Ninja Black Friday Sale

Owners claim it delivers “Yeti insulation and features but actually affordable" (especially now), while others report ice still frozen after four days, even in warm conditions.

Campers and festival-goers call it a “game changer,” BBQ fans say it keeps drinks “fridge-cold,” and several reviewers describe it as “built to last” with reassuringly solid construction.

The FrostVault isn’t just a big insulated box, either. It comes with a clever Dry Zone drawer that keeps sandwiches, fruit and chocolate cool without getting soggy, plus chunky wheels and a retractable handle that make it surprisingly easy to move around.

The FrostVault packs serious performance into a robust 28-litre/30-quart capacity (fits up to 48 cans without ice). Equipped with heavy-duty construction, thick insulation (up to 7 cm) and a lockable lid and drawer, it’s built to last.

Its signature “Dry Zone” drawer keeps food at fridge-safe temperatures below 4.5 °C for days, without having to dig through ice or worry about soggy sandwiches.

Transport is simplified with large all-terrain wheels, a retractable telescopic handle and carry-handles moulded into the base.

Nothing puts a damper on a camping trip like being cold at night in your sleeping bag – and during the autumn/winter months that chill is a given. That’s why knowing how to stay warm in your sleeping bag is essential not just for comfort, but for safety as well. So, how do you keep the heat in?

You may think that piling on more layers is the answer, but according to the founder of The Outdoor Gear Review YouTube Channel, Luke, this isn’t the best approach (more on that in a moment). Instead, he shares five cold-weather camping hacks in a recent video that will help you fend off the chill and enjoy a warm, comfortable night’s sleep.

1. Don't wear too many layers to bed

This may sound counterproductive, but if you wear too many layers to bed you’re at risk of sweating. If you sweat your body will then start to cool down and you’ll be left damp and cold, and will struggle to get warm. “Your sleeping bag should be adequate for the conditions that you’re sleeping in, it should be taking care of you as far as warmth goes, not your clothing,” Luke says in the video. Instead, he recommends getting into your sleeping bag with less clothing then adding layers as you need to.

2. Make your own hot water bottle

Hunkering down with a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag is a godsend when camping in the cold. To create your own, all you need is a stainless steel water bottle, some hot water, and voilà! However, instead of cuddling it all night, Luke says that the best area to place it is actually between your legs. “You have numerous arteries down there that will pump blood all over your body,” he says. Just make sure the lid is on tight and, if you’ve popped boiling water in there, wrap it up in something if needs be, so that you don’t burn yourself.

3. Use a face mask

As tempting as it may be to tuck your head into your sleep bag, don’t. Breathing into it is a one-way ticket to create moisture in your sleeping bag so, while it may warm you up temporarily, just like with the layering, you'll be left feeling cold later on. A Luke says "The death of a sleeping bag is moisture build-up". Instead, his advice is to keep your face out of your sleeping bag and to wear a face mask, or neck buff instead. This will keep your face warm throughout the night.

4. Assess your sleeping setup

A sleeping mat is essential for any camping trip because it provides insulation and stops the ground from conducting heat away from your body. However, when camping in the cold, you may want to take additional measures when setting up camp. In his video, Luke suggests having two layers underneath you instead of one, such as a foam mat, and then placing your sleeping mat on top of this. “This works incredibly well and helps with the heat loss from the ground,” he says.

5. Pop hand warmers…in your socks

This is actually one Luke’s favourite tips for camping in the cold which he’s been doing for 20 years. But, before you grab your hand warmers (single-use hand warmers are perfectly fine here), first, put on a fresh pair of socks (you don’t want to be wearing a pair that is sweaty or damp). Next, pop a hand warmer in each sock down by your toes— Luke likes to put them underneath the tip of his toes. “This works incredibly well and it’s a great way to stay warm all night long.” If, however, you have issues with circulation, he advises to give this a miss.

Mammoth Overland has unveiled the SKL, a hard-sided rooftop camper that sits somewhere between a rugged overlanding trailer and a minimalist micro-cabin perched on your roof.

This is an all-aluminium, insulated, aircraft-inspired camper that deploys in as little as 30 seconds, making it one of the most distinctive overlanding releases of the year.

The SKL is built by Mammoth Overland, a subsidiary of Vashon Aircraft, which already tells you plenty about its engineering DNA.

The camper is constructed entirely from painted high-strength aluminium and carries an R5 insulation rating, significantly more robust than traditional fabric rooftop tents, such as the Roofnest Condor 2 XXL, many of which offer no insulation at all.

The result is a compact unit that can be used in far more demanding conditions, with better heat retention and improved durability season after season.

A tiny cabin with big-aircraft energy

A key upgrade from the SKL prototype is the redesigned front door, which now folds up from the floor, slashing setup time and delivering a more polished user experience.

Inside, the camper measures 89 by 59 inches, which is on par with most 2-person backpacking tents, with an interior width between a queen and a full mattress, comfortably sleeping two adults.

The bright interior is lit by dual light strips and six porthole windows, while a bi-directional roof-mounted electric fan helps manage airflow during warmer nights.

Lighting can be expanded with auxiliary flood lights on either side of the camper, and power is supplied by a Renogy 6Ah battery built into the roof structure.

For extended trips, you can upgrade to 104Ah or 208Ah battery packs, and every unit comes pre-wired for solar and shore power charging.

For anyone who likes the idea of a minimalist, weatherproof cabin but doesn’t want to tow a trailer, the SKL offers an unusual middle ground: a compact, insulated, solid-walled camper that rides on top of your vehicle rather than behind it.

It's an intriguing alternative to conventional rooftop tents and one that’s likely to appeal to overlanders who prefer durability over fabric and poles.

The Mammoth Overland SKL starts at $11,500 (~£8,740 / €9,890 / AU$17,700)and is available to reserve now.

Welcome to T3’s review of the Quechua Arpenaz 0˚ Ultim Comfort cotton sleeping bag from Decathlon.

Not everyone enjoys sleeping in a slim, tapered mummy-shaped technical sleeping bag. So I called in this rectangular, organic cotton-clad, three-season bag to see how comfortable and spacious it feels, how well it performs, and whether it meets all the criteria for a spot in T3’s guide to the best sleeping bags. Read on for the lowdown.

Decathlon Quechua Arpenaz 0˚ Ultim Comfort review

Price and availability

In the UK, the Quechua Arpenaz 0˚ Ultim Comfort is available exclusively from Decathlon, priced at a reasonable £84.99. Although Decathlon does have an online presence in the USA, this specific cotton sleeping bag isn’t listed. However, if you’re looking for a rectangular bag and don’t mind it being made from Polyester, you can purchase the Quechua Arpenaz 68°F Sleeping Bag direct from Decathlon USA for just $29.99.

Rectangular cotton verses mummy-shaped synthetic sleeping bags

When it comes to choosing a sleeping bag, the debate often falls between the relaxed, familiar comfort of a rectangular cotton bag and the technical efficiency of a tapered, coffin-shaped synthetic one.

A rectangular cotton sleeping bag evokes a traditional sense of warmth and a homely bed-like feel with soft, breathable fabric, generous room to stretch and sprawl, and a cosy feel associated with summertime car camping, glamping, caravanning or use as general-purpose guest bedding.

However, cotton comfort comes at some cost because a) the fabric is heavier and more bulky, and b) it absorbs moisture quite easily, is slower to dry if damp and less effective at retaining heat in harsh or very humid conditions.

A mummy- or coffin-shaped bag, meanwhile, is made from ultra-lightweight synthetic materials like nylon or polyester and constructed with performance and low weight in mind. These types of bags are designed for much colder nights, unpredictable weather and easier transportation, especially when trekking or mountaineering.

As a result, a mummy-shaped bag’s tapered profile hugs the body, reducing empty air space specifically around the legs for holding in warmth efficiently, while its synthetic insulation resists moisture, dries quickly and is much more easily compressed for backpacking. However, mummy bags can feel restrictive, with limited room to move, and the slick synthetic interior lacks the softer, more natural feel of cotton.

Ultimately, the choice rests on what kind of sleeper you are and, specifically, what kind of adventure you’re heading into, whether it’s a weekend camping in the car or a backpacking trip into the wilderness.

Design and features

Compared to your average high-performance synthetic mummy-shaped bag, the Arpenaz 0˚’s stuffed package is about four times larger and a lot heavier to carry, which is why it is not suitable for any form of backpacking.

However, its size and weight are perfectly suited to car camping, caravanning, glamping, boating, home use, and even carrying a fair distance from the car to an off-grid pitch.

The Arpenaz 0˚ weighs 2.8 kilos (about 6lbs 3oz) and measures 225cm (7.38”) in length and 80cm (2.62”) in width. While it’s a great length for the tallest of campers, its width could be considered a bit restrictive for some.

I had no issues with its width, mind, but then I’m built like a stick insect. But for those who need much more extra space – along with cuddling couples – there is also a double version available which measures a substantial 160cm in width and 230cm in length.

Made using amazingly soft-to-the-touch Polypropylene for the outer and plush 100% organic cotton for the inner, this bag offers supreme cosiness and breathability when sleeping under stars. Its 350g/sqm Polyester wadding, meanwhile, provides ample warmth in temperatures of around 0˚C, and that makes it a great option for use in early spring, late autumn, and, temperatures permitting, early winter.

However, it will almost certainly feel too warm in hotter climates. Also, bear in mind that cotton linings tend to hold moisture and might not perform as well in very damp conditions.

The Arpenaz 0˚ is extremely well designed and machined, and comes with a full-width removable hood and, ingeniously, two sewn-in insulated neck warmers that can be pulled from recesses in the hood and placed in a criss-cross pattern across the neck. Believe me, these neck huggers really do make a difference when the temperature drops.

This model also features a full surround zip that is easy to use from inside or outside the bag. This means you can also use it as a duvet or, if you have two single bags, zip them together to make one large double with a combined width of 160cm.

The Arpenaz 0˚’s stuff sack has weather-resistant sides, a soft Polypropylene upper section, a pull-to-close cinch and a top clip-strap to carry it with. Decathlon recommends simply stuffing the sleeping bag into the sack rather than carefully rolling it.

I found that both stuffing and rolling worked equally well because the sack is easily large enough to accommodate the bag without any excessive puffing to get it back in. In fact, I found that packing this one up was easier than packing the others in my camping armoury.

I measured the filled stuff sack at 30cm in diameter and between 36 cm and 42 cm in length, depending on how well it’s packed. When compressed for car travel, you should be able to fit it into a space about 32cm long and 20cm wide. Decathlon recommends machine washing at 30˚C.

Comfort and performance

I tested this sleeping bag on a three-day summertime car-camping excursion in Shropshire and thankfully managed to slot in the trip between heatwaves when nighttime temperatures were a more temperate 10˚ to 13˚C. For added comfort, I used the bag on a luxurious combination of the 12cm Coleman Supercomfort self-inflating mattress atop the five-star Helinox Cot One Convertible camping bed.

The first thing that struck me was how soft and cosy the Arpenaz 0˚’s inner material was and how close it felt to the texture and weight of a duvet, and this made sleeping in it more like being at home in my own bed. Exceedingly comfy, in other words.

However, I was mindful that this variant wasn’t the best option for summer camping and, as expected, it did feel a bit too stuffy at one point the night – until I unzipped it halfway to let some cool air in. And yet, when I first climbed in, it did feel rather nippy in there for the first few minutes, which is to be expected given the tent’s internal 11˚C temperature.

But once my body heat had started doing its thing, it warmed up very nicely indeed. I even used the two pull-out neck warmers for the first 10 minutes or so, and they really, really helped fight off the chill caused by undressing in a parky 11˚C tent.

In hindsight, I should have opted for the Ultim Comfort 10° instead, which would have been much better suited to summer camping in the UK. Perhaps I should take a look at that model next spring.

In terms of internal space, I’ll take a rectangular bag like this any day of the week. Since I tend to start sleeping with one knee pointing outwards, I found that this bag provided plenty of space to move around in, though I’ll admit that, like almost all sleeping bags, the material does cling to the lower body, making it tricky to change positions without the inner shifting in tandem.

In the end, I opted for the spring technique, where I use my arms to launch myself an inch off the mattress to quickly turn so the bottom of the sleeping bag remains in place. I guess that’s one of the quirks of kipping in a sleeping bag.

Verdict

The Arpenaz 0° Cotton is an excellent choice for casual campers on a car-camping trip in early spring and as summer moves into autumn. It’s also a top choice for those who want a comfortable, spacious duvet-like bag where weight and pack size aren’t top priorities. However, I would recommend the cooler 10˚ model if summer camping in the UK.

Victorinox has just launched its new Alox Refined Collection, a trio of pocket knives that blend the brand’s traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design touches.

The new range, consisting of the Onefold, Synergy and Synergy X, features anodised aluminium oxide (Alox) handles with skeletonised cut-outs, integrated carry clips and, for the first time on these compact models, locking blades.

With their refined profiles and updated ergonomics, these new knives clearly aim to appeal to the everyday carry crowd as much as to long-time Victorinox fans, and even those looking for a premium camping knife that balances function with form.

Stepping into EDC territory

Each model in the range serves a slightly different purpose. The Onefold is the purist’s choice, packing only a single locking blade and clip for the cleanest, most compact carry.

The Synergy adds versatility with nine tools, including screwdrivers, a nail file, and a bottle opener.

At the top end, the Synergy X expands that lineup further with precision scissors, taking the total to ten functions.

All three share the new Alox Refined design language, such as the machined aluminium handles with distinctive skeletal detailing, which reduces weight while enhancing grip.

The addition of a pocket clip is another first for Victorinox, making these knives easier to carry day to day.

Small upgrades, big impact

The new collection marks one of Victorinox’s most notable design updates in years.

The inclusion of a locking blade moves these tools closer to the dedicated EDC category, and the refreshed form factor suggests the brand is listening closely to a new generation of users who value minimalist function and modern aesthetics.

Prices start at around $56 / £49 / €49 for the Onefold, rising to $78 / £69 / €69 for the Synergy and $96 / £85 / €85 for the Synergy X.

All three are available now from Victorinox UK, Victorinox US and authorised retailers.

[via New Atlas]

The maker of the best coolers, YETI, has built its reputation on creating virtually indestructible products for explorers, campers, and outdoor diehards.

Now, the brand is scaling things down (and across the pond) with the UK launch of the Rambler Jr 10oz Tumbler, a smaller, tougher, and undeniably cuter version of its iconic Rambler line.

Available for the first time to British customers, the new model brings YETI’s premium build quality to a size that’s perfect for kids or anyone who prefers a more compact cup.

The UK launch version marks something subtly different for YETI’s drinkware range.

In the U.S., the “junior” kids’ water bottle variant is typically a 12 oz capacity item, yet the UK has just seen the arrival of a 10 oz tumbler crafted for the region.

This regional differentiation hints at YETI tuning its product offering to local tastes or retail strategies, rather than simply shipping the same global SKU everywhere.

A new era of small but mighty

Despite its small stature, the Rambler Jr 10oz Tumbler is made from the same kitchen-grade 18/8 stainless steel as its full-size siblings.

It’s double-wall vacuum insulated to keep drinks hot or cold for hours and built to survive playground drops, family hikes, and the occasional tumble from a lunchbox.

Every part is dishwasher safe, and the lid seals tightly to prevent leaks, a crucial feature when you’re dealing with excitable small hands.

This miniature tumbler mirrors the design language of YETI’s adult range, offering a confidence-boosting bit of kit that’s ready for whatever their day throws at it.

At £20, it’s not your average children’s cup, but YETI gear is designed to last for years, making it a smart investment for families who want to avoid the cycle of replacing cheap bottles every few months.

The Tropical Pink finish adds a playful touch to the rugged silhouette, bridging the gap between premium outdoor gear and fun everyday utility.

The Rambler Jr 10oz Tumbler is available now at YETI UK for a recommended price of £20.

After teasing what fans dubbed a “barrel-sized bottle” earlier this week, YETI has officially lifted the lid on its latest piece of over-engineered kit: the Silo Jug.

Available in 40oz and ½-gallon versions, this new release takes the brand's decades of cooler know-how (see also: best YETI coolers) and pours it straight into a jug built for team sports, long weekends and anyone who treats hydration as seriously as their hardware.

It’s a natural evolution for a company that made its name building products that could survive the back of a pickup or a Texas summer.

Borrowing insulation and construction tech from its Roadie Hard Coolers, such as the excellent YETI Roadie 24 2.0, the Silo keeps drinks ice-cold through marathon training sessions, tournament weekends or full-day shifts outdoors.

From teaser to touchline

YETI first hinted at the launch in a VIP email showing a young footballer clutching what looked like a jug the size of her torso, with the line “New hydration on the horizon.”

It sparked a flurry of speculation that the brand was about to release its largest personal bottle yet, and the reveal doesn’t disappoint.

The 40oz (1.18 litre) and ½-gallon (1.89 litre) capacities might sound modest compared to YETI’s Silo 6G water cooler – a six-gallon monster weighing nearly 8 kg empty – but in jug form, these are still heavy hitters.

They’re designed to slot between everyday bottles like the Rambler Travel Bottle and those massive campsite dispensers, giving athletes and crews a portable but substantial way to carry serious refreshment.

The hook that makes it hang

Every YETI product has its calling card, and on the Silo Jug, it’s the over-engineered ergonomic handle with a built-in fence hook.

It’s a deceptively simple detail: the jug can be hung on dugout fences, training rigs, or even your tailgate canopy.

Combined with its wide-base stability and thick sidewalls, this handle design makes the Silo one of the most practical hydration solutions YETI’s made.

Both jug sizes are compatible with two new leakproof caps: the MagDock Chug Cap and the MagSlider Straw Cap, which can be swapped out or purchased separately.

The Straw Cap simplifies sipping, while the Chug Cap features a magnetic docking station so you never lose your lid mid-session.

Cooler DNA in a jug’s body

Inside, the Silo Jug uses PermaFrost insulation in both the body and the lid, ensuring your drink stays cold for hours.

It’s made from high-impact polypropylene that’s roughly 40 per cent lighter than the equivalent Rambler Jug, yet still feels bombproof.

Like most YETI gear, it’s dishwasher-safe, BPA-free, and backed by a five-year warranty.

The Silo Jug slots neatly between the Rambler Bottles and the massive Silo 6G Cooler, combining the portability of the former with the cooling power of the latter.

With early-access emails already sent to fans, this limited release is shaping up to be a collector’s piece for diehards, the kind of gear drop that quietly becomes cult.

Expect new colourways to follow, with the white model (shown in the teaser imagery) leading the charge.

The 40oz Silo Jug with Straw Cap costs around $50, the ½-Gallon version around $60, and both the MagDock Chug Cap and MagSlider Straw Cap are available separately for $30 each. Head over to YETI to get yours.

If you’re in the market for a best backpacking tent for all your three-season adventures, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-person tent is a stupendous choice that’s super light, extra spacious, amazingly airy and impeccably well designed throughout.

Nestling at the intersection between lightweight portability and generous comfort, the award-winning MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-person tent has become a go-to option for a myriad of backpacking adventurers, and there are good reasons for this because good money spent on a tent invariably equates to superior materials, expert fit and finish, a plethora of innovative design details and top-flight performance in most weathers.

As a reviewer of many outdoor products from camping gear to garden machinery, I’m in a very fortunate position to be able to see, feel and experience the differences between a product that occupies a budget space and one that sits in the upper echelons of very high-end materials and exceptional build quality.

So yes, you pay a lot more for an MSR, Hilleberg, Nortent, Big Agnes or Fjällräven product but you really do get what you pay for. Small wonder so many discerning backpackers usually opt for these brands when looking for a tent that is unlikely to let them down when the heavens open and the wind gets angry.

Here’s my review of the Hubba Hubba NX 2-person backpacking tent.

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Backpacking Tent review

Price and availability

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is available pretty much the world over but if you live in the UK, your easiest bricks-and-mortar port of call is Go Outdoors where this tent retails at £560 or £469 for members. Alternatively, visit Cotswold Outdoor (£474.99), Ellis Brigham (476), Amazon (£476) and Trekkit (£476).

Stateside dwellers should have no issue getting hold of the Hubba Hubba though we should point out that the tent is labelled LT in the States as opposed to NX. Try Cascade Designs (MSR’s parent company) where it sells for $549.95 or REI Co-op Shop where it’s retailing for the same price.

Specifications

• Seasons: 3-season
• Style: Dome
• Sleeps: 2
• Pack size: 46 x 15cm / 18 x 6 inches
• Pack weight: 1.72kg (3 lb 7 oz)
• Floor area: 2.7m² (29 sq feet)
• Vestibule area: 1.62m² (17.5 sq ft)
• Peak height: 100cm (39.4 in)
• Canopy Fabric: 20D ripstop nylon Durashield polyurethane & silicone
• Floor fabric: 30D ripstop nylon DuraShield polyurethane & DWR
• Rainfly Hydrostatic Head: 1,200mm
• Floor Hydrostatic Head: 3,000 mm

Pitching process

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 is categorised as a freestanding tent which means it’s pitched inner first. The beauty of being freestanding is that, once the inner tent has been pitched, the entire inner section can be simply lifted and placed onto a suitable spot that isn’t too hindered by stones or sharp vegetation. Then it’s simply a case of adding the flysheet and pegging it down. Job done. Unless, of course you’re forced to pitch it in the rain, in which case you can be sure that the inner tent will get wet, and that’s a bad thing if your camping trip happens to coincide with a bout of unreliable weather. Nevertheless, in its favour, this tent is very quick and easy to pitch so chances are that most users would likely escape any rain-swept scenarios.

Let’s start at the beginning. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-person tent comes with an inner fly, a rainfly, a one-piece double Y-shaped pole system and six small but robust aluminium stakes. It all arrives in an oversized waterproof ripstop bag so you can be sure everything will fit back in with space to spare when hastily packing up. This is an invaluable asset because no mortal on Earth has ever been able to fold up and pack away a tent as well as a factory worker. Here’s the process…

Step 1: Lay down and peg the optional and highly recommended footprint (if you have one).

Step 2: Lay the inner tent on top of it and peg it down using the footprint pegs.

Step 3: Grab the one-piece aluminium pole section and carefully unfurl it making sure that all elasticated connectors are firmly in position with no gaps – gaps cause breakages.

Step 4: Start with one corner of the Y shape and insert the silver nub into the hole in the inner-tent’s red aluminium connector. Now do the adjacent corner followed by the two connectors on the other side of the inner. The poles will easily bend but be sure to bend them carefully. Before the next step, ensure that the cross strut is above the main pole of the tent and not below or its exceptional rigidity could be compromised in strong wind.

Step 5: Attach all plastic clips to the inner tent.

Step 6: Grab the outer rainfly and drape it over the inner so the rainfly’s colour-coded grey and red nylon straps correspond to the colours on the inner tent’s straps. Clip the outer fly’s straps to the bottom of the inner tent’s poles and then awkwardly clip the ends of the centre cross strut into each connector on the rainfly’s roof section. Finish off by pulling on all the nylon straps to add tension to the fly.

Step 7: Guy out the two vestibules. And that’s it.

I’d say the whole process took me about five minutes and a little longer when it was windy. For the record, you can also pitch this tent outer-fly only when in very hot weather but you won’t have a groundsheet to sleep on unless you’ve invested in the waterproof footprint. Personally, I see no reason to do this unless using the outer fly only as a means to store large amounts of gear. After all, not using the inner tent at all will be an open invitation to every critter to pop inside to share your sleeping space.

If it’s really bucketing down, it is possible to pitch the Hubba Hubba’s rainfly first and then crawl inside to attach the inner tent, but it’s a bit of a rigmarole. Still, where needs must…

Design

American outdoor gear manufacturer MSR (Mountain Safety Research) was founded in 1969, originally with a focus on mountaineering safety equipment. However, the company is perhaps best known for the quality of its one-to-three person lightweight tents that have gained a strong reputation among backpackers, bikepackers, climbers and expedition teams for their thoughtful design, lightweight construction and ability to withstand demanding conditions.

The highly-regarded and extremely popular dome-shaped Hubba Hubba NX is available in two colours – military green and light grey. Green is the most popular colour in the UK, mostly because it’s less noticeable when wild camping. However, for purposes of this review, I called in the grey option because a) it would be more suitable for photography purposes and b) it looks blooming fantastic.

When it comes to the inner tent, both variants share the same colour coordination of red and white ripstop material punctuated by a huge amount of no-see-‘em mesh that fills in the gaps above and to the sides. If used without the outer tent in warm, fine weather, this glorious swathe of mesh creates an extremely light and airy ambience while also providing a magnificent 360˚ daytime view or a spot of night-time star-gazing – and all without the risk of being harassed by insects. From a practicality point of view, you get two wide mesh pockets positioned at the head and foot of the tent, plus a couple of toggles above for hanging a camping lamp or attaching a clothes line.

At 1.72 kilos, the 3-season Hubba Hubba might not be the lightest 2-person backpacking tent on the market but its superbly ventilated 2.7m2 rectangular living space certainly makes it one of the most spacious. In fact, at 213cm in length and 126cm in width, the bedroom section easily accommodates two standard 50 x 180cm inflatable sleeping mats with a decent amount of elbow room and more than enough length to house a six-footer. At 1m in height, the inner also provides ample headroom without having to move around in a hunched posture.

Also, the addition of two entrances – one on either side – makes it so much easier for individuals to enter and exit the tent without having to crawl over each other. And because each entrance is provided with a good-sized 1.62m2 vestibule, both occupants get to store their belongings within easy reach.

Nevertheless, despite being designed for two people – with more internal space than much of the competition – many backpackers and trekkers have bought this 2-person variant for solo 3-season camping since it offers loads of symmetrical room for one person and all their belongings while being light enough for one person to carry.

Features and innovations

I’ve got to say that the Hubba Hubba NX feels extremely robust for a tent in this weight class and much of that is due to the twin pole hub system, from which the tent gets its name. As explained in the Pitching chapter above, the Hubba Hubba NX uses a single DAC Featherlite NFL aluminium pole system that snaps together to form the shape of a double Y, with a single cross member for extra rigidity. This system not only makes the Hubba Hubba NX extraordinarily easy to pitch, but when the inner tent’s plastic clips are connected to various points of the pole structure and the rainfly has been draped across and pegged down, it creates a taut dome shape that’s flexible enough to withstand strong wind gusts without collapsing in on itself. Being of freestanding design, the whole caboodle can also be picked up and placed wherever you like.

The inner tent uses 20 denier ripstop nylon but this won’t make a great deal of difference if it should start to rain while using the inner without the rainfly because there’s so much fine mesh included that any rain that did fall would surely penetrate very easily. On the plus side, the tent’s deep bathtub-shaped groundsheet has a hydrostatic head of 3,000mm and is constructed using a highly water-resistant 30 denier ripstop nylon with a DuraShield polyurethane & DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating.

However, while the tent’s groundsheet is exceedingly waterproof and durable, I would wholeheartedly recommend adding the Universal 2 Person Regular Footprint to the shopping list because it adds extra protection against sharp stones, twigs and spiny thistles while keeping the base of the tent itself cleaner when packing it up.

Let’s take a look at the very thin and extremely lightweight rainfly, the part that actually keeps you protected from the elements. MSR has opted to use 20 denier ripstop nylon coated in Durashield polyurethane and silicone for very effective waterproofness. Yes, its advertised hydrostatic head of 1,200mm may seem paltry compared to other tents with a hydrostatic head of 3,000mm and higher, but rest assured that MSR’s polyurethane and silicone coatings really do a remarkable job of keeping water out without compromising on extra weight. I know, I tested it.

Once fully erect, the Hubba Hubba resembles a large igloo with a triangular vestibule on either side. Both vestibules are unzipped diagonally and rolled up and cinched out of the way to create a decent sized portal that’s easy to get in and out of without having to crawl on all fours. Moreover, each zip on the rainfly has a centimetre of material overhang above it that serves as a gutter for porting rainwater away. But it doesn’t end there because if you undo the other side of the vestibules that are attached to the outer pegs, you can also roll them back to create a panoramic view with oodles of ventilation on hot days.

Being a 3-season model, the bottom section of the rainfly is gently scalloped upwards between each guy point to allow for increased ventilation and therefore less condensation (four-season tent rainflies are always flush with the ground to keep snow out at the expense of increased condensation).

Given that this is a very high-end tent designed for lightweight backpacking and trekking, clever design flourishes abound, including top-quality plastic clips for the inner tent, aluminium peg points, adjustable pull straps for increasing tension in the outer shell, thin but very robust guy lines, expert stitching throughout and extra material at all stress points.

Personally, I’m a huge fan of this model's inner tent system since it provides the option to sleep with no outer fly during fine weather while providing an amazing amount of ventilation when used with the outer fly. Of course, the downside to all this is that, even with the outer rainfly in situ, the tent may feel a bit cooler in chilly weather – like we often have here in autumn in the UK. But on the other hand, when it comes to hot summer camping, it won’t feel remotely stuffy, airless or claustrophobic.

Having reviewed countless mid-priced tents that sell for well below this model’s price point, I can absolutely see why one has to pay extra bucks for a premium tent of this nature. Backpacking, trekking and other outdoor adventures require hauling your own gear and that gear needs to be as light as possible without compromising on durability, efficiency and functionality. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX ticks all the right boxes in this regard.

Performance

I trialed this backpacker overnight on the edge of a field and gave it a waterproofing test in my garden. I absolutely adore its airy, spacious design, especially when the outer fly isn’t used. In fact, I can only imagine how brilliant it would be to have this tent pitched in a spot with a stunning view because the sleeping capsule’s huge swathe of mesh creates amazing ambience with a near panoramic view of the sky and most of the landscape around it. And all without the risk of being bitten by insects.

In terms of inner space, this one offers a lot more room than the Nemo Dragonfly OSMO I reviewed in 2024, mostly because it is perfectly rectangular with no tapering at one end. The sides, too, are steeply raked to provide more space to move around without feeling cocooned.

I tested it using the excellent Rab Stratosphere 5.5 and Big Agnes Rapide SL insulated sleeping mats and there was ample space on either side without having one’s body pressed up against the sidewalls. However, I would personally advise using this tent for one person, simply because it provides so much interior space without weighing too much for one person to carry. You can thank me later.

I also rate the Hubba Hubba’s two vestibules very highly since they provide loads of storage space for a large backpack and, more importantly, they allow occupants to leave and enter the tent without having to crawl over each other. You also get two storage pockets on either end which make it easy to reach for a torch, phone, Kindle, what have you. And if you look above, you’ll see a couple of attachments for a rechargeable lantern like the perfectly formed Biotite Alpengow Mini or a self-fashioned clothes line.

MSR states a hydrostatic head rating of 1,200mm for the fly and this is quite a bit lower than others in the 3-season category. However, MSR’s waterproofing includes the magic properties of silicone (as used extensively by premium Swedish tent manufacturer Hilleberg) so I’m very confident that this tent will hold out well in a long downpour or even a short torrential one.

Put another way, I personally have had zero issues with any water leakage and I tested this using a garden hose sprinkler for ten full minutes. The water simply beaded off the tarp and made good use of the stitched-in gutters that run the length of the two vestibule zippers. Inside, everything was perfectly dry with absolutely no issues to report.

If the Hubba Hubba NX’s waterproofing was impressive, its wind resistance was even more so since my water test happened to coincide with some 28mph gusts and it just sat there without even budging. My guess is it would easily withstand gusts of up to 40mph and possibly more. However, as mentioned above, its rigidity in high wind is dependent on the position of the tent’s centrally-located cross strut which must be placed above the main pole and not underneath it. It’s also good practice to ensure that the fabrics of both the rainfly and inner tent are pulled taut using the four pegging straps.

Comfort wise, I’ve been extremely impressed by the light and wonderfully airy ambience of the grey-coloured variant I received. If you opt for the green model you can expect a much darker interior which in turn would make it easier to have a lie in when the sun’s on the rise.

Crucially, at no point did I notice any excessive condensation and I put that down to the huge amount of mesh in the inner tent, the two ventilation ports on either end and the scalloped exterior of the rainfly.

Last word. It’s always such a pleasure reviewing a product that is exceedingly well designed using high-end materials with faultless fit and finish – and that’s the 2-person MSR Hubba Hubba NX in a nutshell. This little two-person home-from-home truly rocks.

Verdict

The handsome-looking MSR Hubba Hubba NX strikes an excellent balance between liveability and weight for three-season backpackers and weekenders. With its excellent headroom, two roomy vestibules and wide mesh panels for ventilation and overall ambience, this tent offers great comfort without excessive bulk. In short, if you value space and weight savings over all-out ruggedness, this one is most definitely in the top tier of suitable contenders.

Autumn is officially here, bringing cooler temperatures and shorter days. But despite the drop in warmth, it’s still a perfect time to hit the trails or head out on a camping trip, thanks to quieter paths and fewer crowds.

With the right gear, your outdoor adventures can be even more enjoyable. From lightweight tents to cosy fleeces and clever camping gadgets, these nine new camping and hiking gear drops will help you make the most of your autumn excursions.

VOITED Sherpa Full Fleece Zip

RRP: £89

Buy at VOITED

There’s nothing quite like christening the season with a brand new fleece is there? VOITED’s first unisex fleece collection, crafted from 100% recycled materials will keep you snug. There are three styles to choose from: the Sherpa Full Fleece Zip (pictured above), the Sherpa Fleece Hoodie, or the Polar Fleece Half Zip. Whether you’re hunkering down in your tent for the evening or hitting the hills for a hike, it’s a must-have for keeping cosy.

Coleman Swagger 3 FastPitch Tent

RRP: £249.99

Buy at Amazon

Say goodbye to slow tent setups with the Coleman Swagger 3. Part of the brand’s new FastPitch range, it can be pitched in just two minutes. Simply unfold and lock the pre-attached steel frame, then clip on the flysheet. It sleeps three, but the larger Forest Lodge Four is also available. Both feature a 3,000mm hydrostatic head rating and fire-retardant fabric with SPF50+ UV protection.

Lifeventure Sundown Berber Lined Blankets

RRP: £49.99

Buy at Amazon

Whether you’re chilling around the campfire or tucking yourself into your tent after a long day, the Sundown Berber Lined Blanket will keep you snug as a bug. On the inside is soft Berber fleece, while the outside is waterproof and wind-resistant. We love it when something is practical and looks good.

Nest Pour Over Kit + Java G25 Coffee Grinder Bundle

RRP: $245

Buy at VSSL Gear

Although not a new product per say, the pour over kit from VSSL is now available in a brand new ‘Sahrah’ colourway. It would make a great gift for campers who can’t function without a perfect cup of coffee. This six-piece set includes two double-walled mugs, a BPA-free splashproof lid, a double-walled pour-over dripper, and a storage connector that neatly houses the Java G25 Grinder. The best part? It all packs down into one sleek, compact unit

THAW Heated Gloves

RRP: £129

Available very soon to buy at THAW

What’s better than a pair of regular gloves? Heated ones, of course. This pair from THAW delivers up to 8 hours of warmth to keep your hands toasty during chilly outdoor adventures. They’re also water-resistant and touchscreen compatible, so you can stay connected without peeling them off every time you need to use your phone. You'll have to wait a little longer to get your hands on these, but we think they'll be worth the wait.

Yeti Moon Dust Collection

RRP: Prices starting from $25

Available to buy at Yeti

A new month calls for a new Yeti colourway, and the Moon Dust collection adds a touch of cosmic cool to your outdoor gear. It’s the third collection the brand has released with a grain texture, rather than its smooth Duracoat finish. Grab your favourites Rambler Tumbler or Tundra Hard Cooler in this limited-edition shade before it’s gone.

Lifeventure One Touch Thermal Mug

RRP: £19.99

Buy at Lifeventure

Lifeventure’s best-selling Thermal Mug just got a serious upgrade. Thanks to its 360° drinking spout, you can now sip easily from any angle. The copper-coated walls keep drinks hot for up to 6 hours or ice-cold for 12, and with five sleek colourways to choose from, there’s one to match every adventure.

LifeSaver Jerrycan Graphene:Ultra

RRP: £399.99

Available to buy soon at LifeSaver

When adventuring off-grid, you need a drinking system that you can trust. The LifeSaver Jerrycan Graphene:Ultra takes water purification to the next level. Its graphene-enhanced technology can purify up to 20,000 litres of water, removing 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, while also reducing PFAS, chemicals, and heavy metals to safe drinking water levels. It’s the first portable water purifier in the world to provide this level of protection.

Lifesystems Solo Peak

RRP: £229.99

Available to buy at Lifesystems

For wild campers, a tent that’s both lightweight and compact is essential – and the Solo Peak from Lifestystems delivers on both. Weighing just 1kg (including its repair kit, poles, and pegs), this one-man tent is ideal for adventures on the move. Despite its light build, it’s made from durable 20D ripstop nylon with taped seams and a 3,000mm hydrostatic head, ensuring long-lasting protection and reliability.