IMTEST tested five roof tents for 2-3 people priced up to 2,700 euros. The models Dometic TRT 140 Air, Front Runner Feather-Lite, Gordigear Daintree 140, Horntools and Thule Approach M were evaluated for rain and wind resistance, sleeping comfort and ease of setup. It is noted that roof tents cost 2,000-3,000 euros, which is significantly cheaper than a camper, for example, a VW T6.1 California from 63,000 euros. Before purchasing, it is recommended to check the permissible roof load in the vehicle's operating manual.
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French motorhome manufacturer Notin, recognized as the oldest in Europe, has introduced a new entry-level series, Envol, at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf. The model, based on the Fiat Ducato, is available in three floor plans starting at €81,000. Standard equipment includes a 9-inch car radio, rear-view camera, diesel/electric heater, and electric step. At launch, an off-grid package with a 150 Ah lithium battery, 2000 W inverter, 200 W solar panel, and Thule awning is included, otherwise priced at €3,000.
A comparison of 16 bike rack models for transporting three bikes on a car, motorhome or caravan has been conducted. The VeloSpace XT 3 by Thule (approx. €772) tops the ranking, noted for its theft protection. The top three also include the VeloCompact 926002 by Thule (approx. €549) and the Strada Evo 3 by Atera (approx. €606).
French manufacturer Notin has introduced the new Envol series, starting at €80,900. This is significantly lower than the brand's usual prices, while retaining premium features. The series includes three floorplans: E649 (6.49 m) with a drop-down bed, E719CF (7.19 m) with a queen bed, and E719JF (7.19 m) with twin beds. Standard equipment includes a Pioneer multimedia system with navigation and rear-view camera, Truma Combi 6 heater, and an insulated and heated waste water tank. For €3,000, a package adds a 150 Ah lithium battery, 2000 W inverter, 200 W solar panel with MPPT controller, and a Thule awning. The rear garage has a height of up to 115 cm.
Thule has launched the Epos ParkSecure, a new version of its hitch-mounted bike rack featuring four integrated parking sensors. The system covers a zone up to 1350 mm and 29-inch wheels, providing audible and visual alerts when reversing. It connects via USB and Bluetooth to the Thule app. Requires a 13-pin connector; not compatible with 7-pin. Capacity: 60 kg total (30 kg per bike), max tire width 3 inches (5 inches with accessory). Price: €1,499.95, pre-order available at thule.com.
The selection includes the Omnia portable oven, Porta Potti 145 mobile toilet, Katadyn Tactical BeFree filter bottle, Helinox Chair One folding chair, Ledlenser ML4 lantern, Safari Chef 30 HP Deluxe gas grill, ProPlus retractable clothesline, Front Runner Feather-Lite II roof tent, Berger RMC 40 compressor cooler, and Thule Epos ParkSecure bike carrier with parking sensors. All devices are self-contained, require no infrastructure connection, and are designed for travel use.
The RV Industry Association estimates 349,000 RVs will roll off assembly lines in 2026. Featured models range from the premium Rossmönster Havn camper van on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis at $308,998 to the budget nuCamp TAG XL teardrop trailer at $28,978. Also covered are the Heartland Bighorn 38RE fifth wheel, Keystone Walkabout 26Max trailer, Arkto Camper C10, and Thule Widesky rooftop tent.
Reviews
© Thule Tepui Explorer Ayer 2 from Thule - rooftop tent brings compact overlanding comfort to US SUVs
Thule Group has started US sales of the Tepui Explorer Ayer 2, a two-person soft-shell rooftop tent. Weighing approximately 100 pounds with a sleeping area of 84 x 48 inches, the tent fits standard aftermarket crossbars on crossovers like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It features a polyester-cotton fabric with UV protection, a separate rainfly, and a high-density foam mattress. The product targets drivers seeking elevated camping comfort without towing a trailer or buying a larger RV.
Mobile Home Repairs specialists have named three bike rack models suitable for motorhomes. The BR-Systems Lift features a motorized lift and supports up to 60 kg. The Memo M-Star mounts on the chassis or tow bar and is rated for 75 kg. The Thule Lift V16 is a budget option with a lift, with a capacity of up to 50 kg.
A Knaus Deseo 400 TR caravan, model year 2021, is being offered for sale in Germany. It features four berths including a drop-down bed, aluminium alloy wheels, a Thule 3 m awning, a bicycle rack for two bikes, and a motorcycle ramp. The vehicle has passed TÜV and gas inspection valid until June 2026. The seller states the caravan is rarely used and stored indoors.
An owner of both types argues that hardshell rooftop tents are more convenient and durable than soft-shells. Hardshell models like the Thule Widesky at $3,999 are more aerodynamic, weather-resistant, and often feature crossbars for extra cargo. Soft-shell tents like the Thule Approach 2 S at $2,499 are cheaper and lighter, but their covers are prone to mildew, and setup and packing require more effort.
Thule has introduced six new bags in the Chasm Gear Hauler line, with volumes of 30, 55, and 80 liters. The bags are designed for storing and transporting gear in motorhomes, campervans, and for outdoor activities.
A used Adria Coral XL 670 SL Matrix Plus based on Fiat Ducato is now available on the market. First registered in August 2020 with 57,500 km, it features a 2.3-liter turbodiesel engine (160 hp) and automatic transmission. Equipment includes two separate living areas, kitchen, bathroom with separate shower, Alde heating with underfloor heating, Thule awning, rearview camera, and an additional leisure battery. The original price was over €90,000; the current asking price is €62,000.
The Overland Expo West 2026 in Flagstaff, Arizona, showcased new gear for motorhomes and campers. Over 28,500 attendees participated in 323 classes and demos. Key debuts included the Winnebago ARKA off-road motorhome on a RAM 5500 chassis with 14-day off-grid capability, priced from $331,901, and the AT Overland Aterra ASI slide-in camper for mid-size trucks, weighing from 1,049 lbs and starting at $32,000. Also introduced were ARB winches for the U.S. market, the Thule Widesky hard-shell rooftop tent at $4,000, and REDARC REDWorks power management panels.
Thule has introduced the Tepui Foothill rooftop tent, which folds to 24 inches when traveling—about half the width of a standard roof rack. This leaves room for additional gear, surfboards, or kayaks on the other side. The tent sleeps two adults, supports up to 400 pounds, and weighs 110 pounds. It will be available in February for USD 1,700.
A review of six roof tents based on professional and user feedback. Models covered include Roofnest Falcon 2, Thule Tepui Foothill, Smittybilt Overlander, Roofnest Condor 2, iKamper Skycamp 3.0 Mini, and Thule Tepui Explorer Kukenam. Prices range from $1,600 to $3,995. Key specifications include weight, capacity, materials, setup features, and drawbacks.
A Pössl 2WIN camper van based on a 2006 Citroën Jumper has appeared on the Spanish second-hand market. It features a 2.2 HDi diesel engine (120 hp), 210,000 km on the odometer, and is priced at €32,000. The 6-meter van offers four travel seats, three berths (main bed 1.95×1.40 m, auxiliary 1.60×0.70 m), a full bathroom with shower and chemical toilet, a kitchen with two burners, sink, and Dometic fridge, plus a Truma heater. Equipment includes solar panels, a 100 Ah battery, Thule awning and bike rack, alarm, and safe. The vehicle is sold by Vanlife Leon dealer in León with full service history.
Hobby, a well-known caravan manufacturer, has introduced a new semi-integrated motorhome model, the Optima Ontour Edition V65GE. The model is 678 cm long and 216 cm wide, featuring twin beds over the garage that can be converted into a double bed. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a satellite antenna, a 22-inch TV, and a Thule Omnistor awning. The motorhome is built on a Citroën Jumper chassis with a 2.2L engine producing 120 or 140 hp and offers four travel seats and two permanent berths.
Installing an awning on a motorhome or caravan creates extra living space and reduces dependence on weather conditions. It provides shade on hot days, protection from light rain, and helps keep the interior cooler. Modern awnings are easy to extend and retract. Mobile Home Repairs offers Fiamma and Thule awnings with professional installation.
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Thule has unveiled the Widesky rooftop tent with a hard shell weighing 147 lb (about 67 kg). It opens from the rear, offering an interior height of about 46 in (117 cm) and a sleeping area of 79×51 in (201×130 cm) for two people. The sleeping area converts into a sofa using two cords. Retail price is $3,999.
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