5 Swag Tent Posted by Jerold Harter on 13th Aug 2020

This is a preliminary review because I have not actually slept in it yet. I have assembled it multiple times both on the ground and on a cot, packed it up multiple times, tried it with different sleeping bags, and spent time just lying in it. I think it is great for certain purposes. Obviously, it is for car camping not backpacking. Even though it is "small" in terms of living space, it is bulky. The bulk is the main drawback. However, it appears bombproof.The poles are high quality, the bottom is tougher than the average tarp, the canvas is excellent quality, and the stitching is uniformly well done. There is definitely a premium feel to all the components. I also purchased the tensioning pole which I think should be included with the swag because everyone will want it. With that one pole, the swag is freestanding. I was skeptical about the comfort of the pad but on my cot is is very comfortable, even on my side. My XXL cot seems to be made for the swag and pairs very well (should be available as a combo). Of course, the cot further adds to the bulk of the swag. I did put a generously sized Nemo 20 degree down bag in the swag and it was great and rolled up with no problems but was really bulky. I also bought one of the Kodiak Z-Top sleeping bags, worried that it might be too large to fit. The website makes no reference to using the Z-top with the Swag. The standard size zero degree Z-top fits no problem and is very comfortable. I also purchased a top quilt but have not had a chance to add that. However, I am certain that the top quilt on top of the Z-top is a bit much for the swag - the swag would be stuffed with all the material because these bags are huge. I was able to roll the swag with the Z-top inside it but the resulting object is really big, like a 60 gallon water heater. No way that fits back in the canvas carry bag. The cinch straps are nowhere close to long enough for that combo so I added some lightweight rope to the cinch straps with knots and that works. As per the instructions, I pre-wetted the canvas with water after I set it up for the first time. The canvas is impressively waterproof! I anticipate using the swag for car camping, especially in cool weather, on the cot and covered with either a tarp or in a pop-up screen room. Can't wait for fall!