Freetime Cabin Tents (TE6100) - comments or experiences

Dave
Depends on your situ, like if you where to be moving around from site to site or just staying put for a period.
I have a 12 X 15 tent and it was great for our weather. I found it good the first couple of times that we went out for a week at a time, but when we moved it was still good but it was not as portable. Second to this was when we went anywhere we took a trailer because it took up area when packed. Also we went through some severe weather and I did not sleep as I was worried about water leaks or parts blowing off.
I have used both types of tents and the dome is good value for all conditions. I now have a camper trailer and only got back today from a 3 day cruise and that is heavy canvas and also good value as a second hand unit.

Brad

I tend to agree with the above.

I have a large Cabin Tent, 24 X 12 ft , and several Domes of various sizes.

For quick trips the dome wins hands down. Easier to setup, lighter to carry, and generally very stable in harsh weather conditions.

For Longer periods (say anything over 3 nights) its hard to beat the Cabin tents for room. We have also been through a Cyclone in ours with no probs at all (the same couldn't be said for the tarp). The biggest problem with these is the setup times. These are NOT one man shows, so if you have small kids, and your partner needs to keep an eye on them, they are PITA to put up and pull down, you WONT do it on your own. These really are all hands on deck type arrangements.

Sparhawk,

I have a freedom tent with the pole in the middle of the tent. I think mine is 10x8 but they make them a lot larger (I've had mine for 8yrs now). They literally set up in minutes and don't leak in storms, and also very strong. Something else to think about.....

Leroy

Missed out on a southern cross ultimate trekker for 1/2 price out of tradingpost.. Only been lookin for one for 4 months.. :*(

If you want something that will last 20yrs+ if treated properly, go Canvas, you pay more at the start, but after 10+ yrs of miserable cramped crappy domes, Im going canvas. I know a few blokes in the club that have ~10yrs out of theres and the thing is they can sell them for more than they bought them for all that time ago! $1100 for them

Southern Cross Canvas

Bought a Freedom tent 3 years ago at the same time as a friend who bought a dome tent. We have camped about the same amount (total about 20weeks). He is looking to buy a new tent soon as the dome has had it. We have decided to amortise the cost of the tent over its life. Reckon it is about $10 per night now and getting cheaper all the time. Easy to erect and to fold (the tent that is), comfortable, dry, light and airy. Should last another 10-15 years I reckon.
Is bulky and heavy though

All,

Thanks muchly for all your responses... To sumerise

Dome Tents - Northstar 8 is probably the best. Light, quick and easy to install. Great for short trip or moving trips, but can be used for long camping periods as well

Cabin Tent Canvas - More difficult to put up. (Req 2 persons). Roomy. Heavy (often req a trailer). Great for long camping periods - can withstand hurricanes and cyclones.

Cabin Tents - Polyester blend fabric : No comments at all about the Freetime (not Freedom) tent - So I guess this is one to avoid then. Well it does only have a one year warranty I suppose.

So - if I was to go a Canvas tent which brand should I go for ( or is that a dangerous question)

Final Question - I live in Cherrybrook NSW - does anyone know of a good family orientated 4WD club

Dave

One and all,

Thanks for all the feedback. Someone on ebay was selling a Great outdoors (boots) Hacienda Family Tent (15 x 12 canvas 5 year warranty - still in box) at a starting bid of $500. Only used once. Phoned boots - wanted $1299. Made person an offer of $600 - Now own a somewhat large canvas tent.

Gotta figure out how to put it up now

Dave