Aldi’s new car camping tent promises to turn your SUV into a campervan for just £69.99. A recent test was conducted to see if it delivers on its promise of affordable adventure.

The Rise of Car Camping

Car camping, transforming a vehicle into a temporary sleeping space, is becoming increasingly popular. This often involves utilizing the boot (trunk) of a car as the foundation for a makeshift bedroom.

Aldi's Affordable Solution

Aldi, the German supermarket chain, recently launched a £69.99 car camping tent designed to attach to the rear of SUVs. This effectively extends the vehicle’s interior with a canvas area and awning.

Paired with a £19.99 inflatable mattress, the setup aims to create a comfortable, albeit compact, sleeping arrangement.

Challenges and Regulations

The rise of car camping hasn’t been without its challenges. Some traditional campsites show resistance to this budget-friendly approach, leading to varied acceptance levels.

Regulations regarding car camping vary. England offers potential opportunities on rural lay-bys and in National Parks (often requiring prior permission), while Scotland’s wild camping laws allow for ‘leave no trace’ camping.

Testing the Aldi Car Tent

A recent test of Aldi’s car tent at Marsh Farm, a campsite near Stonehenge in Wiltshire, revealed a positive experience. The campsite owner was accommodating, allowing the setup alongside traditional tents and campervans.

Ease of Setup and Features

The tent proved surprisingly easy to erect, utilizing an elasticated hood and straps to secure it to the vehicle. While the construction felt less robust than more expensive options, its affordability is appealing.

The inflatable mattress, inflated with a car kit, fit snugly within the boot space, creating a small double bed. The exterior tent provided space for belongings, and the awning offered a sheltered area.

A minor issue with the car’s boot lights potentially draining the battery was resolved with a simple workaround.

Sleep Quality and Overall Experience

The experience was described as somewhat fitful, with the low interior roof creating a slightly claustrophobic feeling. Despite this, the setup wasn’t uncomfortable, offering a novel and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors.

The Future of Car Camping

Car camping remains a niche activity, but its growing popularity suggests a shift towards accessibility and affordability. Products like Aldi’s car tent are likely to fuel this trend.

The success of this approach will depend on continued acceptance from campsites and a clear understanding of regulations. As more people discover its convenience and cost-effectiveness, car camping is poised to become more common.