Price Points: Rooftop tents

Rooftop tents

I can’t wait for summer! It’s the time of year that you spend more time outdoors; travelling a bit, doing some sightseeing, going to the beach, wild camping, hitting the boot sales at the crack of dawn…

We’ve toyed with the idea of getting ourselves a vintage camper van, but one of these rooftop tents is a really good stopgap. They’re better than run-of-the-mill tents because they’re raised off the ground, on to the roof of your vehicle; meaning the occupants are spared coming into contact with the cold, hard ground when they’re lying down to sleep. It also means that the probability of being visited by ground-dwelling critters (ants, scorpions, snakes, hyenas, grizzly bears… sorry, I’m letting my imagination get the better of me!) is diminished!

If extra space is needed (perhaps for storage or for the dog to bed down), a lower awning or ‘annex’ are options with some models. I like the idea of ‘gas-assisted opening’, so you’re not struggling with setting it up – especially if there happens to be gusts of wind or a very British downpour.

  1. Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent: £749.00, Ventura Roof Tents

    The Ventura Deluxe 1.4 is an all round incredible roof tent. It opens up in seconds, sleeps 2-3 adults and is made from durable materials for the most extreme conditions. Weighing just 45kgs, the roof tent easily mounts on a set of roof bars on any small car, 4×4, pick up, van or trailer.

  2. TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized: £1,650.00, Tuff Trek
    • 320g polycotton fabric
    • XTRA large fly sheet design
    • XTRA large / double size side windows – improved ventilation in hot climates
    • Tent body: 320g ripstop poly cotton canvas
    • Flysheet: HD 420d fire retardant polyester fabric
    • Lower annex room: 420d fire retardant polyester fabric, zipped in PVC ground sheet
    • Upgraded 25mm aluminium frame tubes
    • Rugged aluminium chequer plate base
    • 1.65m wide model
    • Lower annex room – included in price
    • 70mm memory foam style mattress included (removable, washable cover)
    • Free lower cargo net system
    • 2x piece ladder included
    • Fits most vehicles
  3. TentBox Classic: £2,250.00, TentBox
    • 2-person capacity
    • Gas assisted opening, takes 1 min
    • Space to store bedding & ladder inside
    • Ladder, mattress & fixing kit included

shop rooftop tents

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
Ventura Deluxe 1.4 rooftop tent
£749.00
TentBox Classic
TentBox Classic
£2,250.00
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
TUFF-TREK® TT-02 1.6m Soft Top Tent PRO Ruggedized
£1,650.00

Outdoor eating in style: Weatherproof garden lounging

Outdoor eating in style: Weatherproof garden lounging

Outdoor eating is the perfect way to soak up some much-needed direct sunlight and replenish your vitamin D. Did you know that it’s not too early to start your outdoor eating area? Contrary to popular belief, eating in the garden isn’t best enjoyed in the summer. More often than not, the summer months are too hot. But on a mild autumn or winter day, it could be a fantastic way to boost your mood.

Whether you’re dining al fresco with friends and family or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning sunshine, there’s no better way to make the most of the outdoors. In this post, we’ll look at the various options for creating an elegant outdoor eating area; a fully weatherproof garden that you can use it all year round!

Garden furniture

Garden furniture helps to bring your vision of an inviting, sophisticated space to life and can completely transform an area. Quality garden furniture pieces will provide plenty of comfort, a timeless look and an added touch of luxury to any outdoor setting.

Choosing the right furniture for your outdoor eating area will depend on the size of the space, the style you’re looking to achieve and the climate in which you live. If you’re going for a classic look, choose furniture made from materials such as teak or wicker for a timeless, natural feel. For a more modern look, choose pieces made from moulded plastic or rustproof metal.

Pergolas

Pergolas are a great addition to any outdoor eating area, providing shelter from the wind and adding an elegant touch to your landscape. A pergola is an open-air structure usually made of wood or metal and features a lattice roof. It provides partial shade and creates an inviting atmosphere for outdoor gatherings. Pergolas are also great for climbing plants, such as vines and roses, adding extra beauty and fragrance to your outdoor eating space.

As a rule of thumb, you want to consider regular maintenance, such as hiring a specialist service to maintain the structure in top condition. It’s not uncommon to replace a pergola’s corrugated plastic roofing sheets every few years. This will keep your eating area maintained and weatherproof so that it can withstand the elements.

A covered patio can also be a great option. Patios are more likely to be protected from the external elements thanks to their proximity to the house. They can also come with side panels sheltering to control sun and wind exposure.

Heating solutions

When you want to enjoy the great outdoors for dinner, but the weather could be more accommodating, an outdoor heater might be just what you need. There are several options when it comes to choosing the right heating system for your outdoor eating area.

You can opt for an electric patio heater, which is fast and efficient. Patio heaters are extremely popular for al fresco dinners, ensuring that you can conveniently eat outside.

A wood-burning fire pit is also a popular choice, as it provides a cosy atmosphere, but you’ll need to ensure that it is situated safely away from furniture, trees and people. Sometimes, home-owners also opt for outdoor ovens such as an outdoor pizza oven or a standing BBQ grill as a way to generate heat while cooking.

An outdoor eating area can be a game-changer in your day-to-day social life. Seasonal affective disorder affects up to 3% of the population and could be easily managed by spending more time outdoors.

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6 products to make your family picnic more fun

6 products to make your family picnic more fun

There’s nothing quite like a family picnic to get everyone out of the house, refreshed and re-connected. An outdoor lunch or dinner is the perfect way to inspire quality family time with something for all ages to enjoy. Pack your favourite plates, condiments, utensils and snacks… and head outdoors! Whether it be a nearby park on a sunny day or in the back garden with a BBQ grill, picnics are an easy way to break away from the indoors and share quality moments as you snack on local favourites and reminisce about past times. Have fun exploring your area and finding unique spots for each of your picnics; you never know what memories will be made!

1. A colourful picnic blanket

A family picnic can make a memorable event even more special when you have the right products to make it a comfortable and safe experience. A colourful picnic blanket is essential as it provides a cushioned surface and gives the picnic area an eye-catching visual. This blanket is practical, lightweight and easy to carry, allowing it to transport wherever your family goes conveniently. With the durable little handle that makes it easier to take it with you on trips and its variety of captivating colours and patterns in different sizes for everyone’s comfort, this colourful picnic blanket will add loads of joyfully-hued fun to your family outing!

2. A large and sturdy picnic basket for storage

Having a reliable picnic basket is an essential part of any family outing. A sturdy and spacious design allows plenty of space to store food, drinks, supplies and everything else needed for outdoor fun. The perfect picnic basket should be made with high-quality materials for maximum durability, so it can hold up against any wear and tear over the years. Additionally, going for a model with handles and shoulder straps makes carrying it effortless and comfortable. Investing in a large and sturdy picnic basket is one of the ideal ways to make your next family picnic even more enjoyable.

3. THC-O products

THC-O products can be the perfect addition to your family picnic. Whether you are looking for a unique appetizer, a refreshing beverage, or a sweet dessert, THC-O products provide all that and more! With so many delicious flavours to choose from, you will indeed find something for everyone. From raspberry lemonade to mango smoothie and from salted caramel ice cream to peppermint swirl brownies – THCO products will make your picnic vibrant and fun. And better yet? These treats are made with natural ingredients, so there is no need to worry about added preservatives or artificial flavours. Make your picnic unforgettable by adding these tasty THC-O treats!

4. Fun and festive napkins, plates and silverware

When having a successful family picnic, you need fun, festive napkins, plates, and silverware. Not only do today’s disposable tableware options come in various vibrant colours and styles, but they are also surprisingly durable and leak-proof! You can even find sets of matching plates and napkins for an especially eye-catching look that your guests will love. Plus, there’s no need to worry about spending hours washing dishes afterwards – toss them away when the picnic is over! Add decorative napkins, plates, and silverware to your next family picnic for maximum fun.

5. Plenty of food and drink for everyone

Nothing helps put the picnic cheer into full swing quite like delicious food and drink! A well-stocked spread of yummy treats is essential for any successful family outing. Whether you crave cold beverages, a warm meal, sweet pastries or savoury snacks, having plenty of options available and enough to go around will ensure everyone enjoys the event. But it’s important to remember that when selecting food and drinks for your picnic, all ingredients should be healthy and natural, as any medical claims or health benefits should not be included in the content.

6. Games like frisbee or badminton to keep everyone entertained

A family picnic is perfect for spending time with loved ones, making incredible memories and creating amazing stories. Ensuring plenty of food and drink is ready is essential for a successful gathering. With various options, including healthy choices, snacks, and desserts, you can provide something to accommodate everyone’s taste while providing enough sustenance to keep hungry bellies full throughout the day. There are also beverages to suit all tastes – punch for kids and cocktails for adults will up the fun factor even further. It’s best to plan how much food each person at the event will consume so there won’t be any surprises or shortages on the table come picnic time.

How to choose the best products for your family picnic?

With the summer months approaching, it’s time to start planning a family picnic. Choosing the best products for your family picnic can be tricky, but smart shopping and creative planning can create an unforgettable outing with your loved ones. To get started, set a budget and decide how many people will join so you can figure out how much food to buy. Some classic picnic staples everyone loves include chips and dip, sandwiches or wraps, drinks or lemonade, fruit salad, cookies or cake and ice cream for dessert. If you’re looking for something more unique, consider stocking up on smoked salmon, roasted vegetables and gourmet cheeses for a delicious platter inspired by restaurant-style dining. For those hot summer days, bring along items that help keep people cool, like sunscreen, insect repellent, umbrellas and hats – all of which will come in handy as soon as the temperature rises!

Conclusion

A family picnic is an excellent way to spend quality time together and make lasting memories. With some planning, it can be an enjoyable, fun-filled event for everyone. To make your family picnic more enjoyable, plan activities that all ages can enjoy, bring plenty of healthy snacks and drinks so that no one runs out of energy, and have a few games for those looking to add some competition. Additionally, don’t forget to have plenty of sunscreens available for everyone since sunburns can happen in as little as 15 minutes. Pack some bug spray in case bugs buzz around your picnic area. All these steps will help ensure that you and your family have a safe and happy gathering – with many beautiful memories made!

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Price Points: Outdoor drinks coolers

Outdoor drinks coolers

I’m sure you’ll be able to tell straight away which of these three outdoor drinks coolers I’d choose to own.

I absolutely love the egg yolk yellow drinks cooler from Outside Gang (#2) – it would match perfectly with our yellow bistro table & chairs. It’s available in a range of other colours, long or short legs and optional bamboo chopping board and champagne cooler. It can hold up to 10 bottles of wine or 25 bottles of beer in 2 litres worth of ice.

I could probably also opt for the Keter cool bar in another colour; perhaps the slate grey with lime green interior. I think the telescopic lid-to-tabletop mechanism is a great idea. I’ve even seen an illuminated option for this model.

The four hundred pound version has all the bells & whistles that you’d expect for something in this price range; huge capacity, exterior shelves & baskets, temperature control and castors for ease of movement. The only drawback for me is that it’s electric. A power cable will have to weave its way out of the house through a door or window to the spot in the garden that I want the cooler. The combination of an electrical lead and alcohol is an accident waiting to happen!

  1. Keter cool bar: £85.95, Amazon
  2. Drinks cooler: from £129.00, Outside Gang
  3. Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler: £399.99, Robert Dyas

shop outdoor drinks coolers

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
£399.99
Outside Gang drinks cooler
Outside Gang drinks cooler
£129.00
Keter cool bar
Keter cool bar
£85.95
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
£399.99
Outside Gang drinks cooler
Outside Gang drinks cooler
£129.00
Keter cool bar
Keter cool bar
£85.95
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
£399.99
Outside Gang drinks cooler
Outside Gang drinks cooler
£129.00
Keter cool bar
Keter cool bar
£85.95
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
£399.99
Outside Gang drinks cooler
Outside Gang drinks cooler
£129.00
Keter cool bar
Keter cool bar
£85.95
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
Lifestyle stainless steel 50L electric drinks cooler
£399.99
Outside Gang drinks cooler
Outside Gang drinks cooler
£129.00
Keter cool bar
Keter cool bar
£85.95