The Coleman Rocky Mountain 5 Plus Blackout Tent: A Review with a Twist
Coleman, a brand that needs no introduction, has been a camping staple for over a century. Their Rocky Mountain 5 Plus Blackout Tent is a relatively small family shelter with a unique selling point: high-quality blackout bedrooms that block 99% of daylight, keeping the interior 5°C cooler during the day. But is it worth the £590.96 price tag?
The Good:
- Blackout Bedrooms: The tent's main attraction is undoubtedly its blackout technology. The inner and rear of the outer tent are made from light-blocking fabric, effectively blocking 99% of daylight. This is a game-changer for those who want a dark and cool sleeping environment.
- Easy Pitching: Setting up the Rocky Mountain is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly design and color-coding system. The poles glide smoothly into their sleeves, and the plastic clips help pull the side walls outward, making it quick and efficient.
- Weather Protection: The tent's weatherproofing is impressive. The 70-denier PU-coated polyester flysheet has a hydrostatic head rating of 4,500mm, ensuring it can withstand British weather conditions. The sewn-in polyethylene groundsheet and taped seams further enhance its durability.
- Ventilation: Well-placed ventilation features, including side vents and mesh panels in the bedrooms, help manage condensation and keep the tent breathable.
The Not-So-Good:
- Size: The Rocky Mountain is marketed as a five-person tent, but its dimensions and roominess suggest it's more suited to smaller groups. The living space is compact, and the bedrooms are just 120cm and 160cm wide, making it challenging to accommodate larger individuals or more gear.
- Lack of Porch: The absence of a dedicated porch means there's no space for muddy gear or a comfortable seating area.
- Weight and Pack Size: While the tent is relatively lightweight at 16kg, its small size makes it a bit of a challenge to pack back into its carry bag. Careful folding and rolling are required to fit it in the bag without a struggle.
Verdict:
The Coleman Rocky Mountain 5 Plus Blackout Tent is a well-designed and feature-rich tent, but it may not be the best fit for larger groups or those seeking a spacious camping experience. It excels in its blackout technology, weather protection, and ease of setup, making it a solid choice for smaller families or couples who prioritize a comfortable and dark sleeping environment.
Personal Takeaway:
I appreciate the attention to detail in the Rocky Mountain's design, especially the blackout bedrooms. However, I'd recommend it more for festivals or short trips rather than extended camping adventures. For those seeking a larger tent, I'd suggest exploring the three-person options mentioned in the review.
Coleman has crafted a solid product, but it's a matter of finding the right balance between features and space for your camping needs.
