After much deliberation I've decided on another Freelander. I bought one in 2004 but for various reasons stopped camping and sold it before even using it. Now I could kick myself. Was thinking of a Cabanon atlantic but after listening to advice from Attwools realised it would be too heavy for me.
Haven't bought Freelander yet, suspect I will soon. Obviously I need the footprint but is it worth spending another £35 on dedicated carpet? For the Nevada 3 I bought plastic backed travel rugs which fitted perfectly and were 'right' colour.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
I have a Freelander and the equivalent of the Atlantic, the Calais. Why did Atwools advise you against the Cabanon? It's much sturdier and quieter in the wind, cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold and just as easy to put up. If you have a car there won't be a problem and you could put it up on my own.
I visited them today and they didn't have an Atlantic on show. I asked them about ease of solo pitching and their concern was the difficulty I might have getting the canvas and frame elevated to full height, also physically lifting and moving tent about.
Maybe being faced with a 63 year old/young 5'4" overweight female using a walking stick was too much for them. Due to one knee replacement and the other one with O.R. I cannot crouch or kneel and often use a stick. I also have O.R. In right shoulder so heavy weight becomes an issue, as does putting ring to pin as in my Nevada 3. Reason I stopped last time was due to health and inability to find suitable bed but now have Coleman raised bed so determined to continue camping. Hence the choice of Freelander which is quite light and relatively easy to erect.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
The Freelander is so easy to put up. I can do it on my own. It is just a matter of walking round the 4 'legs' unclicking and bending as you go. I think there is a knack to the joints, and once you have it , the Freelander goes up like a dream. The first few times I was worried I was forcing the legs up, but I just wasn't doing it quite right. It even goes down and in the bag nicely too. I just get mine down, straighten out the material and roll it up.
I agree with you about the Footprint. As for the carpet, it would be 'nice to have' matching carpet, but definitely not necessary if you already have stuff to use. Having said that, I am impressed with the Freelander carpet as has a reflective backing. Every little helps for keeping our feet warm!
Happy camping and I'm glad it is a way for you to continue :-)
Thanks for your response RubyT. As you say, the QE joints are OK once you get the knack. When I became single again I bought the Tourer 200 but sold it in favour of Freelander being a smaller tent.
My daughter can't understand 'needing' to camp, especially solo. We camp together occasionally but for her it's cheap weekends away with the children. For me it's the lifestyle, being outdoors and away from our sheltered housing complex. Fortunately my flat opens onto a big lawned area and I can practice pitch, though what neighbours will think I'm not sure.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
Yes I was very pleased at the outcome of our discussion. It was worth the drive to Attwools just for that. I also discovered they sell smaller good quality water carriers that I can carry.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
Good for you in returning to solo camping In your case then the Freelander is a better choice, but my only concern for you is, if kneeling and bending is a problem for you you, you may find unzipping the Freelander from inside awkward as it's quite sloped and hard to reach, we found that hard and we haven't had a knee operation.
Thanks Helen. I read the reviews about the zip and one had good idea of adapting piece of curtain rod. I just accept, as many do, that physical limitations mean some adaptations. My determination coupled with encouragement from physiotherapist and UKCS members helps.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
Freelander is an excellent tent, and I would definitely recommend getting the groundsheet and carpet for extra cosyness!
DK
------------- Apple The Campervan - A Van For Work, Rest & Play!
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Will definately get groundsheet but trying to (un)convince myself on buying carpet. Last year bought large backed travel rugs to cover Nevada 3 and could use them, but on the other hand........
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
Just a thought, did you mention to Attwoolls that you intend using a raised bed? The Freelander sleeping inner is lower height than the rest of the tent, so it might be worth double checking that point before lashing out any money.
------------- Tackling life the Western District way
Thanks for that point Merry. I looked at a pitched Freelander and reckon the Coleman single raised should be ok but will check that out. The bed is rather large and I'm thinking of a smaller inflatable- don't like campbeds- but stilll need one with some height.
------------- Mavis
It is easier to smile than frown so share a smile every day
I have a Freelander deluxe and after many years away from camping love it. We have the carpet and definitely makes it warmer and more comfortable. We went camping in April without a heater and we were fine. With the Mrs from jamaica that is a real result.
You wont be disappointed of to the isle of man tt for 9 days in it this thursday - cant wait
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Going to buy Khyam Freelander - again!
In your case then the Freelander is a better choice, but my only concern for you is, if kneeling and bending is a problem for you you, you may find unzipping the Freelander from inside awkward as it's quite sloped and hard to reach, we found that hard and we haven't had a knee operation.
