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Don't forget that weight is a variable. It is another compromise, tents are pretty light, mattresses not so light. Just for exercise, take out your mattress and weigh it, I think you will be surprised. I'll take the mattress out before I lift the tent off my car, makes a really big...

That will work, but you are right, it is a lot of work. I would recommend switching to 3M's Fiberglass Restorer, works great on gelcoat has a bit more bite. I have a year old Carbon Fiber Columbus and it is a gray, lives on the roof outside and looks like new, haven't even had to wax it yet...

James, The ACS (anti-condensation) mat fits a small niche. Think of it as a boxspring for your RTT mattress. It increases airflow under the mattress and as a side advantage adds a little cushion too. On a personal note, I use one and really am an advocate for it. I use a RTT a lot, and...

Don't know what kind of kayak you have. You might want to check out Yostwerks, he shares some good information on building and modifying folding and inflatable kayaks. The concepts and ideas may help you build in a little more comfort. http://www.yostwerks.com

Very cool voyage, but I'm surprised they only went as far as San Francisco and not up to British Columbia. I've heard there is a theory that BC was colonized by the Polynesians using similar boats. Thanks for the link, I'll follow their progress.

Interesting idea, the house I grew up in used a similar cork for a floor tile. It was laid right on a concrete slab and was durable and added a nice warm touch. I have a ventilated mat for my RTT similar to what they use under mattresses in yachts. The concept is to raise the mattress to...

Looks good, I have something similar by Coleman but it is pretty big and clunky. It is better to have the smaller size and weight of this one. I use mine in a roof tent where it is nice to hang a light and the fan comes in really handy. Not only is the fan nice for those hot windless nights...

I've had a bunch of RTTs, including a Columbus and a Maggiolina, here is how I would sum up: Folders - Excellent use of space, and really adaptable. Downside, they tend to be colder and a pain to open and close especially in bad weather. Not so good in really inclement areas like PNW, but...

Hi Kramme, I've always thought the Element is the perfect platform for a Maggiolina. We set one up for off-road use a few years back. I think even Truck Trends picked it up. It was really sweet. I don't know if this helps, the older Maggiolinas used a proprietary fabric made by Bayer of...

Kristian, Did some research years ago on how big African cats deal with RTTs and tents in general. I found out that a fabric wall can be effective with cats because they see it like a brick wall. As long as they don't see you or a way in, you are safe. Bears on the other hand think...

Really simple, no moving parts, uses ammonia as a coolant. The propane jet tends to clog with age and use, clean and they run well forever. There are more up to date versions in Europe but they run on 240 volts but Dometic doesn't modify them for the US market. They work well on propane, uses...

We did a prototype about ten years ago that might be what you are looking for. We had a client with big Hummer that wanted a large military style trailer that would track his H1 and also wanted a tent system for his family. Here is what we came up with I wish we had a picture of this...

It has been a few years since I had a Maggiolina but I might be able to shed a little light on your problem. I don't believe the design of the Maggiolina has changed that much, the production methods certainly have though. What you are calling a defective seal, actually isn't a seal at all, I...

Mike, I think that AutoHome used polyester resins about 20 years ago. They are using something different now, I believe it is an isothalic resin, much more flexible, and lighter. A tent made of polyester resins would shatter on impact like a fiberglass boat does so they have to have very...

Need a little input from you too. For example, where do you go, what kind of conditions you plan to encounter and is your awning for the sun or for the rain or for a privacy room. Awnings are really tricky. For example, Corey likes the Camping Labs awning but I'm not a big fan and here is...

So much depends on how you travel. I've always thought of a RTT as a tool for when you are on the move. Keep them light and simple. When you first get your rooftent you thing it will be like this The reality is different, they are like a mountaineering tent, and the wife wants a little bit...

Steer clear of the freestanding verandah. It was developed for the European market. It is designed to be set up and left all summer at the campground. It weighs something like 90 pounds because it is basically a wall tent and requires a ton of guy lines and stakes and is really complex...

Hi Corey, Yes, I really like the new design too, instead of being supported from the ground by two poles and a ridgepole like the older one that you have now, it is supported by the Maggiolina's base. This has a couple advantages, like being quicker to set up, and in really nasty weather it...

AutoHome's original verandah and awnings were developed for the European market and really don't make sense for here in North America. The verandah is rather eccentric, really only good for European campgrounds. Their awning (the puptent) is OK because it sets up fast if kept connected to the...

You can always call Gary at Mudraks, http://tufdp.dajza.servertrust.com/ he has a huge collection of spare parts for AutoHome tents and I think he probably knows more about them than anyone. It is hunting season, Mike lives for his dogs and hunting. This is the slow time for selling tents and...