Swags - I need opinions

**Homestar** · 2nd July 2011, 07:32 PM

Done a few searches, and didn't come up with exactly what I was after. I am looking at getting a swag. We are usually tent people, and travel quite light. I am looking at something that can be set up quickly,and is robust & weatherproof. Our old tent we have had for a while is passed it, and I am looking at other possibilities before I fork out my hard earned. I don't mind spending a few extra $$$ for a quality bit of kit, but if I do, I expect it to do the job well.

I am looking for information & opinions on something that might suit a couple. We are slightly on the larger side, and usually only go out for a couple of nights at a time, sometimes 3 or 4 on a nice long weekend.

If anyone has any personal experiences they want to share, that would be great.

Cheers - Gav

**rijidij** · 2nd July 2011, 08:14 PM

We have two Saul Swags, a single and a double. They are the basic sort of design with no hoops etc, but I just now noticed on his website he has dome swags.
The reason I went for the Saul was (a few years ago when I bought mine) his swags were just basic canvas flaps, but very good quality and he said he doesn't like using anything that can break, rust etc. For example, zips can break, velcro wears out, steel rusts etc. All buckles and eyelettes are solid brass.
Also, I am 6'1" and his swag sizes are quite generous.
It seems he has a few extra products these days, like mozzie nets.
Might be worth a look at his website.

Cheers, Murray

**Utemad** · 2nd July 2011, 08:24 PM

I've got a Saul as well. Excellent basic swag. The dome swags he sells aren't made by him. I don't see the point of dome swags.

I've got the swag, a small tent, a larger tent and a camper trailer. They all have their place so I wouldn't go into it thinking a swag will be a perfect all uses tent replacement.

d@rk51d3 · 2nd July 2011, 08:26 PM

I too have the Saul (single - extra long). Dead simple, no zips to break, no velcro to clog with grass seeds and assorted fluff. No flyscreens to tear with repeated rolling/unrolling.
2 flaps for warmth (3 if you count the head-flap), or raise the outer flap for a blind/screen/shade. lifetime warranty. Aussie made.

In hindsight, I'd probably get it without the mattress, and pick one to suit myself. The supplied one isn't too bad though, maybe just needs some of that "egg carton" shaped foam on top to soften the impact of my sturdy frame. (SWMBO will probably just tell me to lose some weight

)

The Darche domes they sell are now a Chinese import, and I've read mixed reviews.

I figured if you're going to stuff around with poles, pegs and nets and ropes, you might as well set up a tent and be done with it.

**Bushie** · 2nd July 2011, 08:34 PM

Another for a Saul swag, we have a double and our son has a single. I would have to agree with Utemad though they aren't a universal replacement for a tent. If you are in the situation where you need to set up tarps etc, then you may as well set up a tent. In some situations they are just too warm as well.

Martyn

**pistolpete** · 2nd July 2011, 08:38 PM

I got the oztrail mitchell and love it to bits!!! king single.. its roomy inside!!

OZTRAIL MITCHELL CANVAS KING SINGLE SIZE SWAG | eBay

**Larry** · 2nd July 2011, 08:50 PM

Originally Posted by pistolpete

I got the oztrail mitchell and love it to bits!!! king single.. its roomy inside!!

OZTRAIL MITCHELL CANVAS KING SINGLE SIZE SWAG | eBay

X 2. Great product.

**imatt** · 2nd July 2011, 09:02 PM

I have a Burke and Wills redgum swag and am very happy with it, although I agree with the statement that a swag does not replace a tent. I searched for a swag for a while and wanted something with a flyscreen and the ability to open right up on hot nights and the burke and wills came out on top when all features were compared, and I got a great price on it off the net. Mr swagman makes a very similar swag in a great beige colour but price difference is hard to justify. If you are after a basic swag then a Saul swag seems to be the pick of the bunch for quality and traditional design.
Cheers Matt

**Bundalene** · 2nd July 2011, 09:07 PM

We also have a large Sual swag, have had it for well over 20 years and find it excellent.

These can be custom made for little extra, if you require an extra large of what ever.

We bought single Darche swags for both out kids years ago and I dare say these will last a lifetime as well.

Erich

**land864** · 2nd July 2011, 09:37 PM

Hi Gav

I just bought a s/h Oztrail Mitchell swag off ebay for a bargain

Just about to use it for 2 weeks up in NT , centre and Arnhem land.

I'll let you know , but a lot of reviews I read said it's a good jigger as the guys before have said.

Don't know if they make a double.

We also have an RV4 Oztent also bought off ebay at a bargain price

You are welcome to borrow it to try if you like

This will be my first time in a stand alone swag

I would say if you're used to tenting it , I'd think carefully about a stand alone swag for you and the boss

Just another question for those with and those not a fan of the hoop swag.

Can they still be used without the hoops?

My theory was hoops with vents open and flyscreens in use in the warm weather ( but you'd probably want a tarp over for shade which defeats the purpose?) and maybe no hoops so it sits close in the colder weather ?

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