I am wanting a 3 bed tent but although I love the traditional tunnel tent with 3 rooms at the back, i am worried about the sheer size of them!
I have found a Outwell Sun Valley 8 from many years ago which has 2 at the back and another at the front which you can put up, or not. This is perfect, but, although I was originally looking at second hand I am worried that the age of these mean they are not really worth investing in (if anyone has advice on that, I would be grateful!)
I like the new Vango Seaton 8, but really would rather have a 'porch' bit at the front.
If anyone has any ideas r advice, I would be very grateful as this is our first tent purchase and I am drowning in Google!!
Hi notaclue we bought our first tent last August and used it for the first time this Easter.
It is a Kampa Croyde 4 and has a porch area at the front.
We love it.
Not sure about old second tents but im sure someone with more knowledge will tell you.
We have an Outwell Indiana 8 that sounds like it is a similar set up internally. We are a family of six and found it great size...plenty of room to sit inside if needed and bedrooms accross the back easily sleep 4 with some space for the kids books/toys etc.
We have had our tent for about 6 years and it has been well looked after. I think it has many years left in it yet. Not sure what sort of price the Sun Valley is selling for but Outwell are a reputable manufacturer and if it has been looked after properely ie dried out before packing away etc then it might be a good entry point. We bought a second hand first tent and it was nice to be able to "test the water" and then when we felt ready we replaced it.
Quote: Originally posted by TraceyD on 21/7/2014
Gelert Corvus has the same layout, comes in 4+2, 5+2 or 6+2, the +2 refers to the optional extra bedroom you can put up at the front.
Sorry forgot to say you can also get side porch and front extension, we have both and love the extra space, especially if it's raining:
------------- May/June - Spring Valley
Aug/Sept - Leekworth
If you have the space, look for a second hand Outwell Norfolk Lake. I think it's the polycotton version the your Sun valley you were looking at. Being polycotton, will last MUCH longer.
There are a few on ebay at the moment, and the appear to go for around £400, for a decent one.
The pack size and weight for these quality cotton tents is something to consider, however once you have experienced the benefits you will find it difficult to use the polyester tents.
If this is too big, have a look a the Outwell Trout Lake 6.... my favourite tent (currently !)
------------- Current tent line-up (all outwell)
Yellowstone falls - for week or more
Clear lake - Flyball team entertainment
Cedar lake - not been used yet!
Trout lake 6 - short weekend trips
Trout Lake 4 - for just me and the dog
Concorde L
We have Vango a tigris 800xl with side canopy. It is mahoosive for the 4 of us, but when it rains and all chairs etc need to be inside then the space is fantastic
------------- Oh I do like to be beside the sea-side! Oh I do like to beside the seeeeeea!!....
The Gelert Corvus, Royal Pescara, Norfolk Lake and Vango Tigris are all obsolete discontinued tents so only available used with no guarantee how long they will last and if accessories are available. The Kampa Croyde however is a current model available new with full warranty and accessories
A Corvus, used only 3 times, complete with carpet, footprint and porch has just sold on ebay for £245, if I'd had the money to spare I'd have bought as a replacement for ours, so it is definitely worth considering second hand.
------------- May/June - Spring Valley
Aug/Sept - Leekworth
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: 8 berth, 2 beds and separate 3rd bed ....
Croyde 8, superb tent with everything the OP wants. Good shout.
