Let’s Talk About Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp isn’t just another piece of outdoor gear; it’s a versatile shelter solution designed by Slumberjack for the modern adventurer. This tarp promises to be a game-changer for anyone who enjoys camping, hunting, or off-roading, offering three distinct configurations to adapt to various environments and needs.
I was searching for a shelter solution that was adaptable to different environments and could connect to my vehicle. I needed something that was lighter and easier to set up than a traditional tent for quick overnight trips and could provide reliable protection from sun and rain.
Unboxing the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp, I was immediately impressed by the apparent quality of the materials. The khaki color is practical for blending into natural surroundings, and the fabric felt robust. The packed size was reasonable, not ultralight, but certainly manageable for car camping and off-road adventures.
Compared to other tarps I’ve used, like the Kelty Noah’s Tarp or the ENO ProFly, the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp stands out due to its vehicle integration capability. While those tarps are excellent for backpacking and general camping, they lack the specific features for connecting to a vehicle, making the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp a more specialized tool for my needs. I also considered a traditional awning, but I found the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp appealing because it provides the option to be set up without a vehicle.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension; I was eager to test its versatility and ease of setup. I worried it might be too complicated to pitch, or that the vehicle attachment might be finicky, but the potential benefits of having a mobile, adaptable shelter seemed well worth the risk.
Real-World Testing: Putting Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp on a weekend camping trip in the Ozark National Forest. The weather was typical for the area: sunny during the day, with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. I set it up in the “awning” configuration, attaching it to the roof rack of my SUV.
The initial setup took about 20 minutes, including figuring out the optimal placement and tensioning the guylines. The directions were straightforward, but getting the tarp taut enough to prevent sagging in the rain required some adjustment. The awning configuration provided ample shade during the hot afternoon, and when the rain came, it channeled the water away effectively.
One surprise was the amount of space the awning configuration created; it felt like an extension of my vehicle, providing a comfortable area to cook and relax out of the elements. A minor issue was the provided stakes bending easily when hammering them into rocky ground.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp has proven to be a reliable and versatile shelter. It has withstood several rainstorms and provided welcome shade on numerous sunny days.
The fabric has held up well with no visible signs of wear or fading, even after prolonged exposure to the sun. The seams remain strong, and the stitching is intact. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to previous tarps I’ve used, the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp offers a unique blend of convenience and adaptability. While other tarps may be lighter or more packable, none provide the option of vehicle integration, making it a standout choice for car camping and overlanding. The initial setup learning curve has been well worth the enhanced shelter and flexibility it provides.
Breaking Down the Features of Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp
Specifications
- The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp boasts a Khaki color, blending into various outdoor settings. Its total weight is 144 oz, which is expected for a tarp of this size and functionality.
- With an Internal Width of 103 inches and an Internal Length of 160 inches, it provides ample sheltered space. Its packed size is 25in x 7in x 7in, manageable for car camping and overlanding.
- It includes 2 Steel Poles for setup and a 68D Polyester floor material. The rain fly material is 68D polyester / 1200mm, offering reliable water resistance.
- The dimensions are 160 x 103/192 in, allowing for versatile setup configurations. The frame material is Steel, ensuring strength and stability.
These specifications are important because they determine the tarp’s suitability for different uses. The weight and packed size affect portability, while the dimensions and materials dictate its shelter capacity and weather resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp performs its job admirably, providing a flexible shelter solution for various outdoor activities. It offers three distinct setup options: single-pole “A-frame” with a vehicle, dual-pole “awning” with a vehicle, and dual-pole “A-frame” without a vehicle.
Its strength lies in its adaptability; it’s equally at home providing shade on a sunny beach as it is offering protection from rain in the forest. The primary weakness, according to some users, is its stability in high winds, requiring careful setup and tensioning of guylines.
It meets expectations by delivering a versatile and reliable shelter for car camping and overlanding. While it may not be the lightest or most packable option, its adaptability and vehicle integration set it apart.
Design & Ergonomics
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp features a thoughtful design with ease of use in mind. The materials are robust, and the construction appears durable.
The initial setup may require some practice to master the tensioning of guylines for optimal stability, but the process becomes intuitive after a few attempts. The khaki color blends well into natural surroundings, making it visually appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 68D polyester with a 1200mm waterproof rating, the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is designed to withstand moderate weather conditions. With proper care and storage, it should provide several years of reliable use.
Maintenance is straightforward: wipe down with a damp cloth after use to remove dirt and debris, and ensure it’s completely dry before packing it away. The steel poles are sturdy and should withstand normal use, but avoid excessive force or impact that could cause bending or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp comes with 2 Steel Poles and guylines for setup. It does not include a tent footprint, which is sold separately.
While the tarp itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its modular design allows for integration with various accessories, such as additional guylines, heavy-duty stakes, and aftermarket vehicle attachment systems. Given the reports of the included stakes bending easily, investing in sturdier stakes is advisable.
Pros and Cons of Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp
Pros
- Versatile setup options: Can be configured as an awning with a vehicle, an A-frame with poles, or a single-pole shelter.
- Ample shelter: Provides a large covered area for cooking, relaxing, and protection from the elements.
- Vehicle integration: Unique attachment system connects easily to most Jeeps, SUVs, or trucks.
- Durable construction: Made from robust 68D polyester with a 1200mm waterproof rating.
- Reasonable packed size: Manageable for car camping and overlanding.
Cons
- Stability in high winds: Can be challenging to set up securely in windy conditions, requiring careful tensioning of guylines.
- Included stakes: The provided stakes can bend easily in rocky or hard ground.
- Learning curve: Initial setup may require some practice to master optimal tensioning.
Who Should Buy Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp?
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is perfect for car campers, overlanders, and anyone who enjoys base camping. It is ideal for those who want a versatile shelter solution that can be adapted to different environments and integrated with their vehicle.
This product might not be the best choice for backpackers or ultralight enthusiasts due to its weight and packed size. Anyone camping in extremely windy areas may also want to consider alternative shelter options or invest in additional heavy-duty stakes and guylines.
A must-have accessory would be a set of heavy-duty stakes to replace the included ones. Stronger guylines are also a plus for windy conditions.
Conclusion on Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp
The Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp is a versatile and well-designed shelter solution that offers a unique blend of convenience and adaptability. Its ability to integrate with a vehicle sets it apart from other tarps on the market.
The price of $124.95 is justified given its quality construction and versatile setup options. While it may have some limitations in high winds and could benefit from upgraded stakes, its overall performance and functionality make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp to anyone looking for a reliable and adaptable shelter for car camping, overlanding, or base camping. So, embrace the adventure, find your place in the wild, and let the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp be your home away from home!