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We are in the process of looking for a new tent.  We currently have a frame tent but would like a much lighter weight tent.  We need 4 bedrooms and a good sized living area with plenty of windows.  We are thinking of the Sunncamp Vario 900.  Comments and recommendations please

cheers

Hi there,

We have the vario 900. Unfortunately we had a leak problem but only when the annex wasn't on. Ours is a 2006 model and feedback from here has indicated that the problem has been resolved for the 2007 model. Ok, that's the nasty bit done (oh, should mention that we've since had a replacement fly from our decent supplier but haven't used it yet as we've been using our more robust halo for out of season jaunts).

The living area is HUGE, the windows let in loads of light (with skylights too), and the two annex bedrooms are big enough to take 2 single airbeds and a couple of holdalls. The two bedrooms in the main tent are smaller but will take two single airbeds in each, without room for storage. With the size of the living space it's not so bad to store bags in there though.

It's easy enough to pitch, once you get the hang of it, and we can manage with one adult and one small person. There are lots and lots of guyropes to peg out, which takes as much time as putting it up!!! It's also very warm with the SIG, which is great when its cold but not so great in the heat. However, adequate ventilation helps the circulation of air through mesh panels on windows.

There are a few things that niggle me about it though. When its raining and you open the door the wet just falls in due to the flat front design. The living space is perhaps too big, given that we spend most of our time sat outside the tent, even in the rain. My hubby loves the vario, but I prefer our wild country halo 73 (which also comes in a four bed model 104) because it has a porch and because I've also bought a halo 43 that can be zipped on to the 73 to make extra space (and a large footprint but not as large as some of the xxl tents). I also love the halo more because it has steel poles, is guaranteed not to leak in living area, and its better for the nasty weather we've had. However, as you're looking for a light weight option this wouldn't be for you.

On the whole, the vario is a good, spacious tent and seems to meet with your requirements, I think.

OOooooooooooo, that Kyham sounds a bargain! Wanna swap one for my vario? 

Joking apart, the kansas wouldn't give as much living space as the vario tho. As for pitching, we've not had any problems with its size. But I still think its a good option as an alternative to the vario.

Quote: Originally posted by good_in_tent on 17/7/2007

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OOooooooooooo, that Kyham sounds a bargain! Wanna swap one for my vario? 

Joking apart, the kansas wouldn't give as much living space as the vario tho. As for pitching, we've not had any problems with its size. But I still think its a good option as an alternative to the vario.

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Our Wynnster Antares 9 has 4 bedrooms, each with good standing room and a large airy central living area.

We looked at the big dome tents and didn't like the totally enclosed feeling in the middle area or the way the bedrooms slope away.