First Impressions of Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season promises a blend of spaciousness and convenience for the overlanding enthusiast. Overland Vehicle Systems aims to deliver a shelter that’s quick to deploy, comfortable for two-plus occupants, and durable enough to withstand four-season conditions. With its hard-shell design and cantilevered sleeping platform, it certainly piqued my interest as a potential upgrade from my traditional ground tent.
As an avid overlander who’s endured countless nights wrestling with tent poles in driving rain, I was looking for a solution that prioritized ease of setup and offered a more elevated, comfortable camping experience. The promise of a quick, one-minute setup and a spacious sleeping area large enough for my wife, our small child, and myself was particularly appealing. I’ve been researching roof top tents (RTTs) for a while, but the Bushveld II stood out due to its reported large sleeping area and relatively lightweight hard-shell design.
The arrival of the Bushveld II was an event. The single-piece polymer shell looked robust, and the overall design screamed quality. It felt significantly lighter than some other hard-shell RTTs I’d researched, which was a huge plus considering my vehicle’s roof load capacity. My first impression was definitely excitement.
Compared to the Smittybilt Overlander RTT and the ARB Esperance, the Bushveld II‘s cantilever design and seemingly larger internal space were the deciding factors. The Smittybilt felt cramped, and the ARB, while well-regarded, was more expensive. The Bushveld II appeared to offer the best balance of size, weight, and price. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test of the Bushveld II occurred during a weekend camping trip in the Mojave Desert. The setup was shockingly easy. Unlatching the three latches and extending the cantilever took less than a minute.
The tent held up remarkably well despite winds gusting up to 30 mph. The interior was spacious, and the included mattress provided a comfortable sleeping surface. No issues arose during setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous weekend trips, the Bushveld II has proven to be a reliable and comfortable overlanding companion. The 600D ripstop material shows no signs of wear despite exposure to sun, rain, and dust. Maintenance is simple.
A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the tent clean. Compared to my old ground tent, the Bushveld II is a significant upgrade in terms of convenience, comfort, and durability. It’s far exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season
Specifications
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season boasts some impressive specifications. The sleeping area measures a spacious 84 inches x 64 inches. This provides ample room for two adults and a small child.
The tent weighs in at 150 lbs, which is reasonable for a hard-shell RTT of this size. The body material is a durable 600D polyester ripstop fabric, while the rainfly is constructed from 420D Oxford waterproof polyester. These materials provide excellent weather protection.
The tent features a one-piece polymer hard shell for protection during transit. The internal height is 43 inches, offering enough headroom to sit up comfortably. The ladder extends to 96 inches and is made from durable aluminum.
The tent is designed for all-season use, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It features a window vent for ventilation and a skylight for stargazing. Marine-grade 304 stainless steel latches and hardware provide durability and corrosion resistance.
These specifications combine to deliver a robust and comfortable camping solution. The materials are designed to withstand the elements, and the spacious interior offers a comfortable living space. The specifications matter because they directly translate to real-world performance and user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season performs admirably in various conditions. The waterproof rainfly effectively sheds rain, and the insulated base helps to regulate temperature. The setup and takedown process is incredibly quick and easy.
The tent’s strengths lie in its spaciousness, ease of use, and durability. The only minor weakness is the single door, which can be slightly inconvenient for accessing the tent at night. Overall, the Bushveld II meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bushveld II features a well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is solid. The tent feels sturdy and well-built.
The cantilever design maximizes interior space while minimizing the overall footprint. The integrated mattress is comfortable, and the built-in storage pouches are a nice touch. The tent is remarkably user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve involved in its setup or operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bushveld II is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand years of use. Maintenance is straightforward.
The tent is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep. Based on my experience, I expect the Bushveld II to provide many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season comes with several useful accessories. These include a 96-inch aluminum ladder, a blanket, memory foam pillows, six window rods, and an LED light strip. The tent is also compatible with awnings and annex rooms offered by Overland Vehicle Systems.
The mounting channels are adjustable, making it compatible with most roof racks. While there are limited customization options, the included accessories and compatibility with other Overland Vehicle Systems products enhance its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season
Pros
- Spacious interior: Comfortably accommodates two adults and a child.
- Easy setup: Deploys in under a minute.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand four-season conditions.
- Comfortable mattress: Provides a good night’s sleep.
- Included accessories: Comes with essential camping gear.
Cons
- Single door: Can be slightly inconvenient.
- Price: A significant investment compared to ground tents.
Who Should Buy Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season?
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season is perfect for overlanders, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize comfort, convenience, and durability. It’s ideal for families or couples who want a spacious and easy-to-use shelter for their adventures. Anyone who values quick setup and a comfortable sleeping experience will appreciate this tent.
Those who primarily camp in established campgrounds with readily available amenities may find the investment unnecessary. Those with vehicles that have low roof load capacity may also want to explore lighter options. A must-have accessory is a good set of leveling blocks to ensure a comfortable sleeping surface on uneven terrain.
Conclusion on Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season
The Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season is an excellent investment for anyone serious about overlanding and camping. It offers a compelling combination of spaciousness, convenience, and durability. While the price is a significant consideration, the benefits it provides make it a worthwhile purchase for those who spend a lot of time in the outdoors.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Bushveld II. If you’re tired of wrestling with ground tents and are looking for a more comfortable and convenient camping experience, this is the tent for you. Upgrade your overlanding adventures today with the Overland Vehicle Systems Bushveld II Hard Shell Roof Top Tent – 2+ Person, 4 Season!