Scientists say that too many options to choose from can be confusing for us and ultimately lead to making poor or rushed decisions. This is one case where it's good to be spoiled for choice.
The events of the past three years, none of which we wish to revisit here, have marked a shift in perspective for the average Joe and Jane and their families. People are looking to travel more, to spend more time outdoors and out of the city, to accumulate experiences and not material possessions, and preferably to do all these without breaking the bank or running into debt.
That's just one of the reasons why you're seeing so many stories about downsizing and the benefits of nomadic life and why it seems as if RVs and all manners of rigs are popping up like mushrooms after a summer rain. We're being spoiled for choice, which means we can pick the option that works best for us in every aspect.
Now we can add another option to that long list, and it's perhaps one of the most innovative of the bunch. This is Air Cruiser, a new product offered on crowdfunding to raise funds to go into production, developed by Cinch and Wild Land, two companies with considerable experience in this field.
Photo: Cinch
The Air Cruiser is a rooftop tent, but one that immediately vies for your attention with the promise of being "the ultimate game-changer" and the world's best in terms of weight, deployability, maneuverability, comfort, and durability. Big words for such a compact little thing, so color us intrigued.
The Air Cruiser is a rooftop tent, but a self-assembling one that inflates in under three minutes, thanks to a built-in automatic air pump. The R&D phase for it extended for over four years, during which time improvements were made so that it can now boast of all those "world’s best" titles, even if they're unofficial.
Made with "advanced materials," the Air Cruiser has no poles and, as such, no complicated set-up. You just take down the stealth telescopic ladder from the roof, press the button on the tent, secure the ladder, and you're good to go. The shell is thermal regulating 280G ripstop polycotton canvas, with heavy-duty 600D polyoxford with PVC coating that’s treated for mold and waterproofing. Dual-layer windows and doors and double eaves offer protection from the elements and allow in natural light.
Photo: Cinch
The Air Cruiser offers panoramic views when such protection is not required, including through two large skylights. Accessories include blackout curtains, storage pockets, boot holders, and dimmable LED lights. The floor is also the bed and consists of a thermal memory foam mattress with a detachable peach skin covering.
Packed for the road, the tent is incredibly compact, measuring just 55 x 39 x 10 inches (139 x 97.4 x 26 cm) and weighing just 80 lbs (33.3 kg). This means that its impact on the overall performance of the vehicle is minimal, so you can still count on fuel economy almost as if you weren't hauling anything on top.
In camp mode, the Air Cruiser offers sleeping for two or three persons in the utmost comfort and with maximum convenience. The 57-inch (145-cm) headspace is another world first, allowing you enough room to stretch out while inside.
Photo: Cinch
Lighter and smaller than most rooftop tents, the Air Cruiser doesn't require complicated and often frustrating assembly like camping tents. Unlike regular camping tents, this one is also designed for four-season use and has been tested extensively for temperatures between -4 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (-20°C/65.5°C) and winds as high as G-force 7.
"The team performed rigorous testing, including water resistance, wind, salt spray, vibration, acoustic noise, crash, and drive testing, to make sure that every aspect of the Air Cruiser was top-notch," the team says. "With such exhaustive testing, you can rest assured that no stone has been left unturned in ensuring the highest levels of safety and quality."
Because of its size and low weight, the Air Cruiser is compatible with 99% of cars, whether compacts, vans, or SUVs. All you need for installation is a couple of crossbars with at least 106-lb/48-kg weight capacity, spaced 31-41 inches (79-104 cm) apart, and you've got yourself your next vacation home, wherever you want to take it on vacation.
Photo: Cinch
Introduced with an early-bird price of $1,190, the Air Cruiser is right now eight days into completing the campaign, but it's already secured the targeted amount to go into production. The first batch of deliveries goes out at the end of July, with the second one scheduled for October and September. Those who might still want to give it a try but haven’t had the chance to back it should wait for its official wide release, but keep in mind that it will also bring a higher price of $2,999.
Elena has been writing for a living since 2006 and, as a journalist, she has put her double major in English and Spanish to good use. She covers automotive and mobility topics like cars and bicycles, and she always knows the shows worth watching on Netflix and friends. Full profile
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