Azumino — VanSky 66 (Comfortable)

Montbell has announced its 2026-2027 fall/winter lineup, featuring a rectangular sleeping bag with a comfort rating down to -3°C and apparel made from the new ClimaAir Lite fabric. The range also includes base layers, vests, cardigans, a thermal liner, a food cozy, and folding chairs. Products will be available from August 2026.

DRIMO magazine has published a selection of six roadside stations (michi-no-eki) in northern Hokkaido where overnight stays in vehicles are permitted. The stations are located in Sarufutsu, Nakatonbetsu, Shosanbetsu, Tomamae, and Bifuka. All facilities have public baths, parking, and 24-hour restrooms. Bath fees range from 150 to 450 yen. Overnight parking is allowed only for short rest periods; open flames and setting up tables or chairs are prohibited.

Tsushima City in Nagasaki Prefecture has completed a new management building for the campground at Aso Bay Park. The previous building, in use since 1994, had deteriorated, prompting the construction of a new two-story wooden structure with a total floor area of about 475 square meters. It includes heated shower rooms, sinks with hot water, a laundry room, and a multipurpose room. The project cost about 350 million yen. The campground, located on Aso Bay, offers 12 drive-in sites and 8 free tent sites. It attracts around 1,500 visitors annually, including international tourists.

A nine-space RV park, JUBILATIONS×Agro Garden Kobe, will open on September 4 on the rooftop of the Agro Garden Kobe Komagabayashi commercial facility in Nagata Ward, Kobe. Reservations opened on August 27. The fee is 4,400 yen per space per night, including tax, with stays up to six nights and seven days. All spaces have power outlets, and facilities include toilets, an outdoor sink, and waste disposal. The site also features a natural hot spring and a pet hotel, making it a convenient base for urban road trips.

Dream Drive introduced the NICO model based on the Nissan Caravan Super Long with a permanent double bed measuring 1800×1400 mm. The camper includes a kitchen, a single seat, a table, a 100 Ah lithium-ion battery, a 1000 W inverter, and an external shower. Price starts at 7.5 million yen, with delivery by the end of March 2027.

As part of a project to use a kei camper year-round, including winter in Aomori, the author contacted the manufacturer of the 'Tentomushi' model (Banshop Mikami) about floor insulation. The manufacturer explained that adding insulation increases weight, affecting payload, axle loads, interior height, and safety. Advice was also given to consider not only the floor but also the heater, windows, condensation, rust prevention, and electrical systems. The author stated that the information will be used in vehicle selection.