Transforming your Tesla Model Y into a comfortable campsite? This review details my recent family camping adventure, focusing on the practicality and performance of the Tentsla tent and a custom-designed Tesla mattress. We tackled the challenges of uneven sleeping surfaces in the Model Y, offering practical solutions and tips learned along the way, including a surprising alternative to building a custom wooden platform. This isn't just about gear; it's about maximizing space and comfort for a successful family camping experience within the confines of your electric vehicle.From setup time and weather resistance of the Tentsla tent to the surprising convenience of the Tesla mattress and the practicality of using a portable fridge, we cover all aspects of our setup. We also address minor issues and offer suggestions for improvements, such as upgrading window shades for a better fit and using protective measures to avoid scratches. This review provides a realistic account of our camping experience, complete with solutions to common problems and valuable insights for anyone considering a similar adventure in their Tesla Model Y.
Pros And Cons
- Good fit in Tesla Model Y, fills gaps
- Creates a strong platform when inflated
- Can be easily deflated using the pump in reverse and stored
- Relatively straightforward setup (approximately 1 hour)
- Good space for two children and two adults sleeping separately
- Effective guide ropes provided good space
- Good waterproof ability, no leaks observed despite rain
- Well-impregnated and waterproof fabric
- Window shades are brilliant for darkening
- Packs up easily
- Corner of the boot lid scratched the silvery lining of the carport attachment in high winds
- Potential for damage to carport due to friction with the car boot.
Read more: Top 5 Square Camping Tables for Your Next Adventure
Gear Up for the Camping Trip
Planning a camping trip requires careful consideration of essential gear. For my recent adventure, I prioritized a reliable tent, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and practical amenities. The list included the Tentsla tent (reviewed in previous videos), a Tesla mattress for optimal space utilization in the Model Y, a portable fridge, and a reasonably priced folding table (£60 with shelving) for convenience.
Other basic camping supplies such as stoves and chairs were already in my possession. A full list of all items is available in the comments section for your reference.
Optimizing the Tesla Model Y for Sleeping
One significant challenge was the uneven sleeping platform in the Model Y after folding down the rear seats. Many reviews suggested constructing a wooden platform to level the surface. I initially planned to do this, even measuring the slope and wood size (6x4 seemed ideal).
However, a helpful Reddit suggestion to remove the rear bench completely proved to be a game-changer. Removing the bench created an almost perfectly flat surface, eliminating the need for a complex wooden structure. The bench fits neatly in the rear footwell for storage.
Setting Up Camp: Tentsla Tent and Tesla Mattress
Setting up the Tentsla tent was surprisingly straightforward, taking about an hour. Contrary to some reviews, it was easy to assemble and secure using the guide ropes. My family (two children) slept comfortably in the tent while my wife and I used the Tesla mattress in the car.
The Tesla mattress was a pleasant surprise. It perfectly filled the gaps in the Model Y’s cargo area, creating a firm sleeping platform with the included 12V pump. A helpful tip not mentioned in the instructions is to use the pump in reverse to deflate it, easily packing it back into its bag.
Weathering the Storm: Performance and Observations
The campsite experienced some rain, providing a test of the Tentsla tent's waterproofing. The tent performed exceptionally well, demonstrating excellent water resistance. The water beaded on the roof, and despite some pooling in the middle, there were no leaks.
The window shades (Model 3 version, slightly mismatched) were also a great addition, effectively darkening the car in the evenings. For future trips, I plan to upgrade to the Model Y-specific shades for a perfect fit. A minor issue was a slight scratch on the Tentsla tent’s carport from the car’s boot lid; a sock was used as a protective cushion.
Additional Gear and Final Thoughts
The Alpacore K18 fridge proved invaluable, keeping food and drinks cool throughout the trip, powered by the car’s 12V outlet. A longer extension lead would improve functionality, allowing it to reach the frunk for rain protection.
Overall, this camping trip was a success. The Tentsla tent and Tesla mattress performed admirably, creating a comfortable and convenient setup in the Model Y. Minor adjustments like the window shades and perhaps a longer extension lead would enhance future trips. All equipment details are provided in the comments section.