FASTER pitching, lighter weight, lower bulk and increased height to the edge of the tent – these are just four benefits that come with Outwell’s Exended Frame System that sees the replacement of the two outer poles with fibreglass wands.

Like the poles they replace, they run through roof sleeves.However, the poles do not travel down to the ground but locate in cups positioned central to the middle poles. The cups attach to the tent by straps that allow you to apply the correct tension for the perfect shape.

The angled pole connectors help ensure headroom is maintained up to the wall.

Stand back and those large panoramic windows will catch your attention. These keep the inside light and airy – a feeling enhanced by the airflow from all those vents. Take a walk around and you will find a large rear vent covered by a guy-out storm flap, a vent protected by a cowl between the fibreglass and main poles, and a large vent over the large sidewall panoramic window.

The opposite wall does not mirror this window but features a door with an inset vinyl window. A mesh insect screen backs the door.

Inside, you find that all the windows have drop down curtains for privacy. There is an electric port for the hook-up cable. And the groundsheet is sewn-in, but it does not drop down at the doors for cleaning.

The inner tent has four mesh pockets each side, and a mesh vent on the rear wall. The bedroom is a tad cramped for three – even if one is a nipper – but is superb for two.

Camping says: The Carolina 3 proved an instant success with Camping staff who all like its ease of use, good looks and living space – those panoramic windows and subdued colours makes indoors a pleasant place to be. Although a three-berth all agree with the manufacturer – that it certainly makes a luxurious tent for the touring couple.

FACTFILE

Price: £249.99
Packed size: 27cm x 77cm
Materials: Outer Outtex 3000 polyester, 3,000mm hydrostatic head;
Inner Breathable polyester Groundsheet Double coated polyethylene;
Poles steel/Duratec 11mm fibreglass
Dimensions: Outer 245cm x 520cm; Inner 215cm x 180cm; Height 200cm (inner 190cm)

CONTACT

Outwell. Tel 01937 591101. Web www.outwell.co.uk



This tent review was published in the February 2009 issue of Camping magazine. Order our latest issue.

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