I am looking to upgrade my current camping set-up to go camping with my partner and my dog (by car), as I currently have an MSR ELixir 2 and it is far too small for the 3 of us!
We want to pass to canvas tents, and have something durable with some sheltered living space where we can spend time even when outside is bad weather. While we currently live in France and often go camping in the French mountains or in Italy, we will move to the Natherlands soon where we expect to meet stronger winds. So we are looking for a tent that can do well in strong winds and cold, but also in hot weather! We usually go camping with a double inflatable mattress which is 180 cm x 135 cm, so we need some space for that and for sheltered living area. At the same time, I would like to not exaggerate with the size of the footprint as I am afraid that going for a toob big footprint would reduce versatility of the tent...
I have my eyes on the Cabanon Guadeloupe and on the ESVO Beduin 240. Would you think these are good fit for what described above? And would you advise one over the other? Finally, given the high price of the tents, I am wondering if I should try and meet the price for a new tent or if it is possible/advisable to find them in good condition second hand.
Thank you everyone for the input, we are hoping this to be a tent for a lifetime of camping adventures so we are trying to make a good choice!
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I had a Bedouin 340 for just myself and the dog, and would suggest that size is more suitable for 2 people and a dog.
In addition, the Bedouin 240 does not have an inner tent, whereas the Bedouin 340 does which makes it cosier in colder nights.
ESVO also has Bedouin 280 and 300 which I believe also have an inner tent. However, please check to confirm.
I would suggest for you to wait a little longer before purchasing, and visit the tent display at Camping Travel Store (CTS) which is UK's stockist for Cabonon and ESVO tents.
They may not have every model on display, however, they will have a good range available to view and try for size etc...
Have a chat with James at CTS for help and advice - he is very nice and helpful.
I opted for the Bedouin 340 as it preferred its size and look back in 2015/6. The 280 and 300 were newer additions to their pyramid range.
DK
P.S. edited to add - definitely get the side panels and vario awning, and a couple of tent tidies at the same time if you are opting for the ESVO.
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- 2027: ? NL+DE+FR
- 2026: FR+DE
- 2025: 17/77
'24: 10/49; '23: 9/47;'22: 8/46; '21: 9/34
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I agree with dk168 that you would do well to see them set up if possible. Obviously I don't know where in France you live but I'd have thought you could find a display closer than England. Maybe even visit the factories. Either will be an excellent quality tent which should last you years.
Quote: Originally posted by seanfdh on 04/2/2025
I agree with dk168 that you would do well to see them set up if possible. Obviously I don't know where in France you live but I'd have thought you could find a display closer than England. Maybe even visit the factories. Either will be an excellent quality tent which should last you years.
Don't know about Cabonon, however, ESVO's factory was not kitted out to be a showroom for their tents which I paid them a visit last year.
DK
------------- Apple The Campervan - A Van For Work, Rest & Play!
- 2027: ? NL+DE+FR
- 2026: FR+DE
- 2025: 17/77
'24: 10/49; '23: 9/47;'22: 8/46; '21: 9/34
* Ex-tenter
* Treat life events like a dog: if you can't eat it, play with it or hump it, p1$$ on it and walk away!
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Thank you everyone for the responses! I think we will indeed try to visit the closest Cabanon showroom or the ESVO one in NL.
While searching, I came across Nordisk. Their canvas tents look really good on the website, but I find not many reviews... How would you say Nordisk quality relate to ESVO and Cabanon?
Nordisk tents canvas tents are white in color, very susceptible to stains.
Also have few guy lines, which is less convenient in strong winds.
Esvo 240 is indeed too small, the 280 has a separated sleeping area, no inner tent, but a curtain.
Esvo in Volendam does not have a showroom.
Take a look at the Dutch website Marktplaats, many tents are offered here, second-hand. Do inquire well, there is also a lot of junk in between. Brands you can search for, Randstad tent, de Waard, Esvo. and canvas tents in the lower price range, de Wit, Vervat.
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We've had a Cabanon Guadeloupe and a Cabanon Barbados and, of the two, I'd recommend the Barbados for 2 people plus a dog. Check out the reviews and pics on here.
There's not much significant difference in pitching time or pack size but if it's outdoor space you're after, the Barbados plus 2 wings is by far the better option. It also has an inner tent, which makes improves the internal temperature in both hit and cold weather.
The Barbados is easy to pitch and the bedroom inner will easily accommodate your 1.8m wide airbed. The same cannot be said of the Guadeloupe as the rear of the tent is shaped (basically corners cut off).
I cannot comment on the Esvo as haven't owned - or even seen - one.
The only thing I don't like about the Cabanon pyramids is the colour (green). I much preferred when they were beige, with a dark green front. Fading is more apparent on coloured canvas, so if you camp a lot in hot climates this is something to bear in mind.
Used Cabanon tents ate worth considering if the price is right and if they've not been excessively used or re-proofed. Obviously check for any damage (groundsheet pegging points sometimes pull off if not handled with care) and mould and mildew etc.
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Topic: Cabanon Guadeloupe vs ESVO Beduin
via mobile 05/2/2025 at 11:18pm
