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Features to Look for in Soft Camper Shells
Ventilation: When shopping for a soft camper shell, you should look for well-ventilated models. Ventilation is especially important if you plan to camp in places with hot and humid climates. Look for models with large ventilation ports, zippered air vents, or adjustable air intakes.
Exterior Pockets: Many soft camper shells are equipped with exterior pockets that allow you to store equipment and supplies on the outside of the shell instead of inside it; this is handy when your vehicle is stuffed to capacity. Look for models that have multiple and evenly spaced pockets that are large enough to store items such as helmets, sleeping bags and camping gear.
Protective Coating: Think about how much rain, sun, dust and dirt your camper shell will be exposed to during use in order to determine if a protective coating would be beneficial; keep in mind that most soft camper shells aren’t waterproof by themselves. If water resistance matters to you, opt for a model with an added coating such as ultraviolet (UV) rays shielding or mineral oil grain process technology – both of which help keep the interior dry while providing some additional protection against UV rays.
Add-Ons and Accessories
Soft camper shells are a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to invest in an expensive RV. The multitude of add-ons and accessories available for soft camper shells enhance the convenience and comfort that you experience when camping in a rooftop tent or tent trailer. Some of the add-ons available with a soft camper shell include sunshades, air conditioning kits, luggage racks, and propane heaters.
Sunshades are crucial if you plan on spending extended periods outside your vehicle. These shades protect from UV rays, keeping you cool during those hot summer days of camping. Air Conditioning Kits come with pre-installed blowers that easily fit into your existing soft camper shell. These provide much needed relief from muggy nights spent in nature whether you’re inside or outside your tent or trailer. Luggage racks are perfect for larger groups who have ample luggage space and need a solid surface to securely store items atop their vehicle while they drive between campsites. Propane heaters provide additional warmth so that campers can stay cozy when it’s chilly out. Many propane heaters can easily be adjusted depending on how much heat is needed so campers don’t overheat either!
These add-ons and accessories allow campers to optimally experience nature while feeling safe and secure in their own little shelter; freeing them up to explore more of the terrain around them as well as get uninterrupted rest during those necessary midday breaks.
Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect the condition of your soft camper shell regularly to make sure that all the hardware and stitching is in good condition. Repair any damage or replace any parts that are worn or broken.
2. Clean your soft camper shell on a regular basis with a mild soap solution to ensure debris, dirt, and other contaminants do not accumulate on the surface of the shell. Utilize a soft brush or sponge for thorough cleaning.
3. Always store your soft camper shell after each use in a dry place, such as a garage or shed, to avoid exposure to the elements for prolonged periods of time when it’s not in use. UV rays from the sun can eventually cause fading and can weaken fabrics over time.
4. Staining can occur from dust and bird droppings that land on softcamper shells so keep them wiped down as regular maintenance. If you ever notice hardened substances stuck onto it, use a citrus-based cleaner to help loosen these tough deposits before washing off with soap solution mentioned previously
5. Once your shell is clean, you may want to consider applying a protective polish designed specifically for canvas materials if you prefer an added layer of protection against harsh weather conditions and debris accumulation over time
User Reviews
User Reviews for Soft Camper Shells
“I recently purchased a soft camper shell and absolutely love it! I can now take my truck camping, and the size and shape of the camper shell fits perfectly in my bed. Plus, I don’t have to worry about rain or snow while I’m sleeping inside! Highly recommend!” – Tom, WA
“I didn’t think the soft camper shell would provide much protection from the elements while on our road trip but was very pleasantly surprised when it kept us quite comfortable through cold and rainy conditions! The insulation works great in keeping out drafts and we were able to pack up quickly each morning. Highly recommend.” – John, CO
“I’ve had a few different hard top camper shells over the years but decided to try a soft option and I’m glad I did. Installation was easy and quick compared to other models of shells that required assembly with screws and bolts. Setup time is less than half compared to hard tops which makes this an ideal choice for camping trips.” – Laura, OR
Troubleshooting
– Leaks: One of the most common issues with soft camper shells is water leaks. Check that all sealant is properly applied around the seams and in any other places where water may enter. Also check to ensure that your panels are firmly attached and consistent.
– Heat Loss: Soft camper shells are not as insulated as hardtops, meaning they can allow heat to escape easier when camping in cold climates. Investing in heavier insulation can help prevent this issue from happening.
– Damage from Sun/Weather: Over time, prolonged exposure to sun and weather will cause wear on a soft camper shell. Ensure you regularly clean and treat the shell with waterproofing products, inspect for damage, and replace any torn or sun-damaged parts with new ones if necessary.
