And like all good start ups, Tune definitely solves some problems. The 360-lb. Tune M1 potentially raises the bar on weight-to-space ratio, comfort, and functional versatility for pick-up truck based adventurers. Founded by a team of outdoor industry and engineering veterans, Tune Outdoor is a direct-to-consumer brand launching a premium lightweight pickup truck camper to a growing market seemingly still hungry for innovation, value, and product evolution.

Tune Outdoor unveiled its innovative new entry to the growing lightweight truck camper market and we can’t wait to get out and test one. The striking Tune M1 pop-up canopy truck topper seems to blend design innovation, and simplicity. The brand said a streamlined production process delivers an industry-best weight-to-space ratio, exceptional performance, and a stylish, modern aesthetic, targeting the burgeoning vehicle-based adventure and active outdoor community.

Employing durable, lightweight materials, Tune engineers developed an intuitive design that puts the Tune M1’s base model weight starting at only 360 lbs. It also features a patented wing-wall design with flared sidewalls, a market first, and a fully vertical pop-top, providing more cubic living space than any lightweight truck camper on the market. This exceptional weight-to-space ratio broadens the Tune M1’s utility across a wide range of outdoor and offroad conditions, making it an ideal solution for comfortable camping outdoors, whether you’re fishing, surfing, climbing, kayaking, biking, snowmobiling, hunting, and more.

“We designed a canopy truck topper that hits the sweet spot of lightweight, functionality, and feel, allowing you to access your favorite backcountry places with enough space to bring your toys and gear and still camp comfortably,” says company president Sean Kepler, who has held executive leadership positions at The North Face, VF Outdoor, Reef, and Crocs. Tune’s team of outdoor industry veterans and engineers spent more than two years perfecting Tune’s design and production process.

Tune’s structure incorporates an aluminum frame, injected ultra-strong composite corner brackets, a clean polyester pop-top canopy extension, and easy-to-fit, FRP honeycomb paneling. Each camper comes with three aluminum or glass awning doors that allow for easy access from any angle, low-power interior halo lighting, and over 440 feet of universal T-track on the interior, exterior, and roof for unlimited customization. A large sleeping loft allows users to sleep sideways, while maintaining 6’4’’ to 6’10” of stand-up headroom (depending on truck model). The bed and living area can be enjoyed simultaneously, opening the entire cabin to camp living – from hanging out and cooking, to toy hauling and remote working.

“Tune has engineered a product that is affordable, highly functional, and efficient to build, which empowers outdoor enthusiasts to comfortably enjoy their favorite off-the-path places to play and stay,” adds Kepler.

The M1 is being sold direct to consumers at tuneoutdoor.com with a base model price of $12,999 with an introductory price of $10,999 for a limited time.

Tune innovated a patent-pending industrial design solution that allows the Tune M1 to assemble quickly and easily, translating to fast installation lead times and efficient after-market service. The Tune M1 camper easily integrates with nearly any pickup chassis—from Tacomas to the Ford Lightning—providing unparalleled performance and comfort without extensive modifications.

The co-founder of Tune is an old friend of mine and one of the original inventors and partners at Backcountry Access. He’s got a depth and background in the “living and playing outdoors” industry that is tough to match, along with a background in engineering and bringing real world technical products to life. Tons of respect for those guys.

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We do hear about them during these “post pandemic” times, and they seem to keep appearing, especially when you are looking for them.

Bike sales, getting outdoors, domestic travel, and overlanding are just a few of the key trends we are all getting pretty familiar with. Enter THOR Industries — the Indiana-based owner of subsidiaries making up the world’s largest RV manufacturer.

The brand quickly found itself at a very odd sweet spot of pandemic silver linings: people needed to get out of the house, they needed to get outdoors, they couldn’t/didn’t want to fly, and they couldn’t leave the country. Welcome to RV Life. And while that used to mean gigantic highway cruisers built for retirees, it now crosses neatly over into VanLife, with new chassis and new technologies opening the door for a resurgence in popularity of Class B model vans, or essentially, an RV built into a van.

Thor Motor Coach (TMC) is the number-one motorhome brand in North America, producing nearly 1 out of every 4 motorhomes sold annually. Formed in 2010 as a strategic merger of Damon Motor Coach and Four Winds International, TMC builds many of the world’s most recognized motorhomes introducing cutting-­edge innovations, a wide range of styles, sizes, floor plans and features – delivering coaches for every customer’s lifestyle and budget.

Its diverse product lineup includes many of the world’s most recognized gas­ and diesel­ powered Class A and Class C motorhomes, including the Four Winds, Challenger, Chateau, ACE and Tuscany models. In 2020, the company expanded to offer innovative Class B options: initially the Sequence and Tellaro, followed by the introduction of the Rize, Scope, and Sanctuary in 2021. The Rize and Scope are built on the RAM platforms and pack a ton of features and solutions into their relatively compact footprints. They are the smallest camper vans available from Thor Motor Coach at 18 feet. These Class B vans are inspired by the conversion vans of the 70s and 80s, you remember the ones, with all the plush folding seats, integrated lighting, and movable tables — my granddad had one.

By building a variety of unique styles, sizes and floor plans, TMC offers motorhomes that feel custom­-made at a competitive price. Over the past year THOR has also created partnerships to focus on conserving public lands for the enjoyment of RVers and outdoor enthusiasts, and connecting individuals dealing with severe illnesses to the restorative, healing and therapeutic benefits of nature, including the National Forest Foundation and First Descents.

We took out the Tellaro for a test drive and it was the ultimate pandemic escape pod. Part of this undeniable appeal is the expertly designed full bathroom in the back, along with the full kitchen as well as air conditioning (and batteries that can recharge on solar power). The AC is simply crucial when touring with kids and dogs. As my family grew from zero to two kids over the last few years this experience shed light on the true benefits and joys of RV Life over just plain old Van Life. You’ll see stats out there about the growth in RV rentals and sales in excess of 400 percent last year, so let us know how your search goes. Here are the detailed specs on the Tellaro should the passion call you, and you have the credit or bank account to back it up:

Class B Van from Thor Motor Coach

Ram Promaster chassis:
// The Promaster is powered by a 3.6L V-6 gasoline engine with a 6-speed transmission. With a front-wheel-drive platform, the RAM provides increased areas under the vehicle for creative floorplan layout outs. Without the driveshaft running to the rear, holding tanks, electrical components, and LP systems can be hidden under the van, increasing internal storage capacity. Also, the FWD chassis provides confident and surefooted handling in all weather conditions, including snow and ice.

Media Center with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, SiriusXM:
// If you love your Waze, Google, or Apple maps in the car, the Tellaro supports the same programs on its Pioneer in-dash media center. Easy integration for hands-free phone and texting is supported via USB or Bluetooth. The large 7″ screen is 28% larger than the factory radio with enhanced high-definition visibility. The increased size is a real bonus when backing the motorhome or viewing the GPS directions.

Thule exterior accessories:
// Known for rugged and straightforward designs, Thule is a brand known by outdoor enthusiasts across the globe. The patio awning, roof rack, bike rack, and roof ladder are ideally suited for the van. The awning is automatic, rolling in and out with a single press of a button. Stabilizers are included for locations with high winds, so shade is always available. The bike rack can accommodate two full-sized adult cycles and folds up and out of the way when not in use. The roof ladder has a magnet system to ensure a safe ascent and descent. Move the magnetic base anywhere on the upper half of the van for complete access to the roof rack.

Winegard Connect 2.0:
// Getting off the grid is the allure of the Tellaro, but sometimes it’s necessary to keep in touch. The Winegard Connect system is a 4G cellular hotspot with Wifi capabilities. For those adventurers who work from the road or for the extreme winter sports enthusiasts, the Connect 2.0 makes it easy to upload a killer new GoPro video or spreadsheet for the corporate conference call.

Re(Li)able Power Package:
// Lithium supplies power to our phones, our cars, and now our motorhome. The Re(Li)able power pack is a truly green product, eliminating the need for a traditional generator. Cutting CO2 is just part of the equation, as the full answer equals not only lower emissions but leaving no trace when we are one with nature. The system is built by Mastervolt and worldwide leader in battery and inverter technology. 11,000 watts of power is more than enough power to run the roof air conditioner for more than 8 hours of continuous use, with plenty of capacity left for other tasks. Every time the engine is run, the high output alternator charges the batteries with up to 280-amps of power, topping up the power quickly. The system is so smart, it even has an auto feature, that can be set to start the van and provide a quick boost to the battery system anytime it runs low.

Truma heating system:
// As the leader in water and room heating, the Combi system from Truma is the answer to quiet, efficient, and sensible heat. Small in size, but big in performance, makes this the preferred system for van campers.

Convertible furniture:
// Regardless of your needs, the 20LT floorplan in the Tellaro allows for multiple configurations of the furniture. The driver and passenger side of the van has a sofa for daytime use and then lay down to form two twin beds in the night. Keep one bed as a sofa, and covert the other to a bed. Each twin has a retractable headrest that way, your head can be raised to watch the TV or help your partner sleep by reducing snoring. The Froli sleep system provides cushions, and airflow under the bed mattresses to you stay cool while sleeping. The beds can even transform into a king-sized bed, spanning all the way across the width of the van.

TecnoForm cabinets:
// European flair is always popular in smaller vehicles, as the clean lines and crisp finish makes space feel bigger. Constructed and imported from Italy, TecnoForm’s patented process finished the cabinet door with a mirrorlike appearance. Lightweight material, known for strength and beauty, defines the construction of the door, making it the perfect complement to the van’s storage without taking away from carrying capacity.

Solar Charging System:
// The sizeable solar system comes from GoPower and includes a 30-amp charger with lithium charging capabilities and a 190-amp roof panel. The large panel is unencumbered on the roof, allowing it to soak up as many of the sun’s rays as possible, once again charging the Re(Li)able power system. In full sun, the panel can charge at more than 9-amps.

BM Multiplex wiring system:
// Most of us have some kind of smart control system in our homes, and the Tellaro makes use of the BM Pro Multiplex wiring system to bring those features to the camper van. An Androidbased control operates all of the functions inside and outside the vehicle, with a simple interface not requiring a Ph.D. to operate. A complimentary phone app is available for even more control via Bluetooth. Control the patio awning, air conditioning, or lights from outside the van or from
the neighbor’s campsite next door.

Pet-friendly:
// Fabrics and leatherette materials are resistant to pet dander and claws. No carpet on the floor makes it easy to sweep out the unit, and there is a hideaway pet food and water dish, along with a drawer to keep toys and food contained in one spot.

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Before I dive into explaining some essentials to take on the road with you when you’re car camping, let me just say that there is no right or wrong answer here. Everyone has their own vision and version. This is simply a guide I want to share as a baseline mechanism for what to take with you when you are car camping and more importantly, HOW to take it with you when car camping. 

Rewind…

back to June of 2017, weeks before my graduation from the University of Oregon’s journalism and advertising school. With no obligations after college, i.e. no immediate internship or job to run to, I wanted to make use of this time. Road tripping and photography have always compelled me, so I quickly developed a plan to go car camping in my car (at the time), a ‘97 dark green Ford Explorer, through the national park’s in Oregon, California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah. Before eventually back tracking on new routes up to Oregon… all in the span of a month. 

Plans made, time to prepare. 

With plans in place, it was time to consider what I’d take along with me to make things convenient. Being on a college budget, I decided to find a quick, stocked and affordable option to shop at for my essentials: Wal-Mart. As someone already enticed by the compactability of backpacking, I wanted to find supplies that could all fit conveniently in a storage bin and limit the space that it takes up in the car.  This is a key part of this write up and one piece I highly suggest getting, so you can build everything around it… I’ll dive into this and the essentials I pack below. 

Essential to (HIGHLY) Consider 1: Camping Stove

 At Walmart, I scoured the isles, first looking for a camping stove. For about $45 I found a foldable Coleman 2-burner propane stove, about 4” H x 22” W when folded. 

Essential to (HIGHLY) Consider 2: Storage Bin for your Essentials 

With these dimensions of your stove now in mind, you can find a storage bin that allows for the stove to fit in and also leaves you a little extra space. I locked in a storage bin around 25” L x 18” W x 13” H that also had latches on the side and looked seemingly durable. Plan to spend somewhere between $10-$25 for this and you’ll be in great shape. 

*NOTE: This is not only a clutch pack because of how much you can pack in one bin, but also the bin doubles as a table, leg rest, card table…the possibilities are vast!*

Essential to Consider 3: Propane Tanks, Pots, French Press, Pans, Oven Mitts, Cooking Tools, Utensils, etc. 

Now that you’ve got a stove and storage unit for your essentials locked down, it’s time to consider all the related tools needed. 

1. Propane: obviously this is crucial to make your stove work. Get two Coleman tanks about $5 each and you’ll be set for weeks. 
2. Lighter: get a torch lighter or two so you can make sure you can start your stove and not look like an idiot in front of your friends with your stove set up and no way to start it. 
3. Pots/pans: you can buy new ones, or, if you can just scour your relatives/friends stocks for any pots and pans they don’t use regularly and are willing to part with. You’ll want pots and pans that fit your stove, and allow for both to be on, so keep the size of the burners in mind. Also, if you’ve got a cast iron that’s always a quintessential camp bring along. 
4. Oven mitts: no one wants to burn themselves. Get a couple oven mitts and you’ll be set. Inexpensive buy here too. 
5. Water filtration system: although you should always have a few gallons of water with you in your car, having a filtration system will give you an extra piece of mind. You can find these anywhere between $30-$100 depending on which style you go with. 
6. Spatula, ladles and tongs: I found a nice set for $5 at Walmart that had all of these on a convenient key chain like ring (You can also tap into stocks of your own tools or a relatives that they may not need) 
7. French press: for coffee drinkers this tool is clutch, you can go this route and have unlimited flexibility in what coffee you bring. If you don’t want to pack a French press or don’t need coffee you can also pack single packet instant coffees or other drinks. I’ll dive into more below in the dry perishables to have section. 
8. Plates/bowls/mugs/utensils: You can go reusable and just use normal utensils or get plastic/paper. Just make sure you dispose of these properly 😉 
9. Cleaning supplies: You can get dish soap and a scrubber or get those SOS pads, or another route. Pick your poison here, if you’re camping multiple nights you’ll want to have your dishes relatively clean. 
10. Hand sanitizer – 2020s favorite product, keep those germs off ya!
11. Trash bags – clean up after yourself and keep nature clean + enjoyable. 
12. Napkins/paper towels/rags: think about eating a meal and cleaning up after cooking when you’re not camping. Crazy thing is it’s the same so think the same.  
13. Bug spray – trust me, you will need  
14. Sun screen – see #13
15. Hammer/Mallet – to knock them stakes in! 
16. Batteries for your lamps

How to pack these in the bin ^ : to conserve space in your storage bin, I suggest bundling these like minded “camp kitchen” essentials in either a smaller storage bin that would fit in the box, or you can use a bag. Recently, I’ve just been putting these in a paper bag. 

*Note: the pots/pans may just need to be packed in the car separately depending on size / space in your bin.*

Essentials to consider 4: First Aid

You’ll want to have a first aid kit in your box, if you’re shopping new – you can find small ones that are already conveniently in a storage kit. Clutch! These can somewhere between $15-20 I’d assume. 

Additionally, you should plan to pack some things like a space blanket and also Advil/Tylenol, Tums/Pepto. I’d suggest just throwing the pills/tablets in zip locks and labeling them, so you don’t have to worry about the bottles taking up space. Once in smaller bags, you can throw these in a bag/large zip lock together and keep them conveniently together and compact.

Essential to Consider 5: Dry Perishables/Seasonings/Drink Mixes

Here’s some things I have, but you can pack to your liking, be sure to just pack these together. 

1. Oatmeal – remember: boxes take up unneeded space. So get a few oatmeal packets out of the box and throw them in a ziplock together. Quick and easy breakfasts, inexpensive. 
2. Instant coffee/drink mix/Tea bags: I like to have these handy when backpacking, but also are great for car camping and take up hardly any space .
   1. You can find single packets of a variety of coffee in any coffee aisle. Take them out of the box and throw in a zip lock together. 
3. Lemonade/Hawaiian punch/Arnold Palmer: great drinks all just need some water and some stirring/shaking up.  
4. Ground Coffee for your French press. 
5. Mountain house meals: just add hot water to these, mainly use as a clutch backpacking meal, but nice to have some extra meals easy to pack in your car camp box. You can find these online on their website or at REI, Cabela’s, and other outdoor stores. If I’ve got a few of these in my box I like to keep them together with a rubber band. 
6. Salt/pepper/seasonings you like: all up to your taste… but i’ve got small shakers with lids for salt and pepper.  Some other seasonings I have is this awesome chili-lime Tajin, and Montreal steak seasoning.   

How to pack these in the bin ^ : exact same way as the kitchen essential section. For these dry perishables, to conserve space in your storage bin, I suggest bundling these like minded dry perishables essentials bags in either a smaller storage bin that would fit in the box, or you can use a bag. 

Essential to Consider 5: Miscellaneous Items 

I’m gonna rattle off some more things you should consider packing in your camping bin if you have space. Note these are likely just things you’ll throw on top: 

• Clorox wipes / any wipes to clean things with. 
• Flashlight/headlamps/camping lantern  
• Toilet paper And / or Multi use wipes for your business 
• small foldable Shovel to deal with your biz
• Hammock / straps – great for any camping trip and the camping ones are fit into compact bags. 
• Bungee cords/duct tape – perhaps two of the most versatile creations man has made. 

Packing it all: 

With the stove on the bottom, throw each bag of essentials on top and then the loose items on top of those. Once you get all your essentials packed in the box throw the lid on there and get yourself a nice sharpie of your favorite color to write your info on it! 

Now you’ve got your very own camping box! So long as you keep your box bundled and stored in the right way after use, you can camp time and time again with piece of mind and a stern confidence that you’ve got your essentials all packed in one convenient camping box.  

Happy camping!

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The updated Roxor’s appeal goes beyond its styling. Mahindra’s wee four-wheel-drive utility vehicle benefits from improved off-road performance, thanks to shorter new 5.38:1 axle ratios that replace the prior model’s 3.73:1 gears. With the 62-hp turbodiesel 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine’s mighty 144 lb-ft of torque available from as low as 1,400 rpm working in tandem with the standard five-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission and two-speed transfer case (and 9 inches of ground clearance) the Roxor is a proper rock-crawler.

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