Let’s Talk About Barker Camper Tote Along Tank
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank is designed to solve a common problem for RV and tent campers: how to efficiently and cleanly dispose of wastewater when a direct sewer hookup isn’t available. Manufactured by Barker, this 16-gallon tank aims to provide a convenient and portable solution. Its low profile, heavy-duty wheels, and included accessories make it an appealing option for those seeking ease of use and durability.
What led me to this product? After years of wrestling with cumbersome buckets and jerry cans to empty our RV’s gray water, I needed a smarter, more manageable solution. I was tired of the spills, the mess, and the sheer inconvenience. The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank promised to be that solution.
The tank arrived completely assembled, a welcome change from some of the DIY projects that often plague the RV lifestyle. My initial impression was positive. The blow-molded polyethylene construction felt robust, and the wheels looked like they could handle some rough terrain.
Compared to other tote tanks on the market, I was particularly drawn to the Barker’s low profile. I had been looking at the Thetford SmartTote2 and the Camco Rhino Tote Tank, but the Barker seemed to offer better ground clearance for fitting under our relatively low tent camper. I was excited to give it a try and see if it lived up to its promise.
First impressions? I was optimistic. The assembled nature was an instant win, and the materials seemed durable. The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank looked like it might finally bring some sanity to our camping waste disposal process.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barker Camper Tote Along Tank to the Test
First Use Experience
Our first test run with the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank was at a rustic campground in the Ozark National Forest. The site was beautiful, but the nearest dump station was a considerable distance away, making our tank all the more valuable. We tested the tank in dry conditions on a mix of gravel and packed dirt.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. Connecting the included 3″ sewer hose to our RV’s outlet was straightforward, and the tank filled without leaks or issues. The low profile design meant it fit easily under our camper’s drain. Towing the full tank by hand to the dump station was manageable, thanks to the heavy-duty wheels.
After the first use, I was impressed with how clean the entire process was. We no longer had to worry about spills or splashing. The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank made the unpleasant task of waste disposal surprisingly simple and efficient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking or warping in the polyethylene construction. The wheels still roll smoothly, even when fully loaded.
The tank is easy to clean. A quick rinse with a garden hose after each use keeps it fresh and odor-free. Regular lubrication of the wheel axles ensures smooth operation.
Compared to our previous bucket system, the Barker is in a completely different league. It has streamlined the entire waste disposal process, making camping significantly more enjoyable. I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Barker Camper Tote Along Tank
Specifications
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank boasts several key specifications that contribute to its functionality and durability. These include a 16-gallon capacity, providing ample space for wastewater storage. It measures 7.75″ high, 33″ wide, and 30″ long, ensuring a low profile for fitting under RVs with minimal ground clearance.
It weighs only 16 lbs when empty, making it easy to maneuver and store. The tank features a 3″ male bayonet outlet for easy connection to standard RV sewer hoses. Also present is a 3/4″ garden hose outlet for optional rinsing and drainage.
The construction consists of quality blow-molded polyethylene with plastic and plated components for durability. This construction is crucial for withstanding the rigors of outdoor use and ensuring a long lifespan. Heavy-duty wheels facilitate easy towing, even when the tank is full.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the user experience. The 16-gallon capacity minimizes the frequency of trips to the dump station. The low profile and heavy-duty wheels enhance portability and ease of use in various camping environments. The durable construction ensures that the tank can withstand the demands of frequent use.
Performance & Functionality
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank excels in its primary function: efficiently and cleanly transporting wastewater from your RV or camper to the dump station. Its ease of use and portability are exceptional. The tank connects securely to standard RV sewer outlets, minimizing the risk of leaks or spills.
The heavy-duty wheels allow for smooth towing, even on uneven terrain. The 16-gallon capacity is generally sufficient for several days of camping, depending on water usage.
However, the 3/4″ garden hose outlet could be slightly larger for faster rinsing. This is a minor point, but a larger outlet would further improve the tank’s overall functionality. Ultimately, the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank meets and exceeds expectations by providing a reliable and user-friendly waste disposal solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes ease of use and durability. The low profile is particularly beneficial for RVs with limited ground clearance. The heavy-duty wheels are robust and provide excellent maneuverability.
The polyethylene construction feels solid and provides a good balance of weight and strength. The tank is relatively easy to handle, even when full, thanks to its balanced design.
There is a slight learning curve associated with connecting and disconnecting the sewer hose, but it quickly becomes second nature. Overall, the design and ergonomics of the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank are excellent.
Durability & Maintenance
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank’s durable polyethylene construction suggests a long lifespan with proper care. The plastic and plated components appear to be resistant to corrosion and UV damage. The heavy-duty wheels are designed to withstand frequent use on various terrains.
Maintenance is simple. Rinsing the tank with a garden hose after each use is generally sufficient to prevent odors and buildup. Occasional lubrication of the wheel axles will ensure smooth operation.
With proper care and maintenance, the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank comes with a useful set of accessories to get you started. These include a 3″ bayonet cap and adapter for secure connection to standard RV sewer outlets. An 18-5/8″ I.D. drain hose is also included, providing ample length for connecting to your RV’s outlet.
The package also includes a tow handle for easy pulling and a 3″ sewer hose to reach dump stations. While there aren’t many “customization” options for a tote tank, you can easily add additional lengths of sewer hose or different types of sewer hose connectors depending on your specific needs.
The tank is compatible with standard RV sewer accessories, allowing you to adapt it to various camping scenarios. The included accessories provide everything needed for basic operation, making it a convenient and cost-effective solution.
Pros and Cons of Barker Camper Tote Along Tank
Pros
- Low-profile design allows it to fit easily under RVs and tent campers with minimal ground clearance.
- Quality blow-molded polyethylene construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Heavy-duty wheels make it easy to transport even when full.
- Comes fully assembled for immediate use.
- Includes essential accessories such as a sewer hose, bayonet cap, and tow handle.
Cons
- The 3/4″ garden hose outlet could be larger for faster rinsing.
- While durable, polyethylene can be susceptible to punctures if mishandled or stored improperly.
Who Should Buy Barker Camper Tote Along Tank?
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank is perfect for RV owners, tent campers, and anyone who frequents campgrounds without direct sewer hookups. It’s especially beneficial for those with smaller RVs or limited storage space. Its low profile makes it ideal for campers with minimal ground clearance.
Who should skip this product? If you primarily camp at locations with full hookups, you may not need a tote tank. Also, if you have a very large RV with massive holding tanks, a larger capacity tote tank might be a better option.
A must-have accessory would be a longer sewer hose for those dump stations that are located further from the parking spots.
Conclusion on Barker Camper Tote Along Tank
The Barker Camper Tote Along Tank offers a practical and convenient solution for handling wastewater when camping without direct sewer hookups. Its durable construction, low-profile design, and heavy-duty wheels make it a user-friendly option. The included accessories further enhance its value.
At $169.99, the price is justified considering the tank’s quality, durability, and the convenience it provides. I would personally recommend the Barker Camper Tote Along Tank to anyone looking to simplify their camping waste disposal process.
Stop struggling with buckets and spills. Invest in a Barker Camper Tote Along Tank and enjoy a cleaner, more hassle-free camping experience. You’ll be glad you did!