Hello, fellow adventurers and lovers of the great outdoors! We'd like to talk about a big question that has been central to everything we do here at Swing Away Tent. Roof tents or Swing Away tents?

Roof Tents:
The High Life of Camping

Roof tents, the penthouses of the wild camping world. With their elevation, they offer a unique perspective of the spot you have chosen to setup camp. We love roof top tents (read our first blog for more on that!), but we spotted certain drawbacks that have prevented people with different needs and requirements from fully enjoying the roof tent camping experience.

Let's discuss them now!

Pros of Roof Tents:

• Elevation: Away from the damp ground, curious critters, and great views.
• Convenience: Pop up tent ease, no more tent poles and guy ropes.
• Mobility: Overlanding dreams come true, as your car roof tent is always tour-ready.

Cons of Roof Tents:

• Height: Scaling a ladder at 2 AM isn't everyone's cup of tea.
• Fuel Consumption: Increased wind noise and drag whilst driving, leading to higher fuel consumption. 

Don't just take our word for it! Here is a video made by Big Rock Outdoors, outlining the pros & cons of Rooftop tents.

Swing Away Tent:
The Grounded Revolution

Enter the Swing Away Tent. It's like the roof tent had a down-to-earth sibling. Attached to your vehicle via the tow bar, this tent swings away from the back of your vehicle, ready in minutes and safely 1 foot off the floor.

Pros of the Swing Away Tent:

• Accessibility: Perfect for those who find ladders, and the idea of falling from one, a bit daunting.
• Safety: Elevated about a chair height off the ground, it’s a safer option for families, the elderly, or people with disabilities.
• Convenience: It shares the ready-when-you-are ethos of its loftier counterpart.

Cons of the Swing Away Tent:

• New Kid on the Block: It might not have the same street cred as the classic roof tent... yet.
• Visibility: While you won't get the same aerial views, you're more in tune with the environment around you. This option may be preferable for those wanting to keep a lower profile whilst wild camping.

Which Tent is Your Camping Soul Mate?

So, what's it going to be? Are you team roof tent or swing away tent? Why not both? Conveniently, we sell roof tents and swing away tents! 

Remember, whether it's a tent box in the sky or a trailer tent on the ground, the essence of camping – reconnecting with nature and creating unforgettable memories – remains the same. We love all forms of camping for this reason. Whatever gets you out into nature and works for you.

Ready to Camp?

Before you set off on your next overlanding quest or spontaneous "camping near me" Google search, consider your needs. Think accessibility, comfort, and how high you're willing to go (both literally and budget-wise).

In the end, whether you're suspended in a car roof tent or swinging away in a ground-level haven, it's all about enjoying the great outdoors. So, pack up, drive out, and find your perfect spot under the stars – be it a few feet higher or closer to the ground.