For many campers, the traditional tent will do. However, with tablets and smartphones becoming so popular, some portable shelter and tent manufacturers are integrating technology into their designs. So whether you can’t be away from your microwave or Facebook for a whole weekend, there are ways to stay connected while you are in the wilderness.
Goal Zero/Eddie Bauer Katabatic 2
Goal Zero teamed up with Eddie Bauer to create the Katabatic 2 tent. The tent’s roof has an integrated 18-watt solar panel that is designed to hook up with Goal Zero’s Sherpa 50 Power Pack. If you are camping with the Katabatic 2 tent you can connect your laptop, tablet, smartphone, or other electronic device to the Sherpa and keep them charged. The only thing that might keep consumers from this luxurious tent is the price tag, it’s over $500, without the solar panel.
Barebones Safari Tent
Barebones is the sister company of Goal Zero. Barebones focuses on creating portable shelters and accessories. Their products are built for both recreational camping and for humanitarian and emergency response efforts. The Barebones’ Safari Tent is large and designed for extended stays. It is 120 square feet and the prototype comes equipped with outlets that include integrated clamps that secure to the aluminum frame of the tent. The outlets are powered by Goal Zero’s Yeti solar system and allow you to plug into an outlet just like at home. If you want this portable shelter for your next long camping trip it will run you close to $2,000.
Eureka! E!luminate and Media Center
Eureka! is on the forefront of tent technology. They already of a line of powered tents and now are looking to make camping a little more glamorous. The hardcore camper will want nothing to do with the media center. An integrated pocket allows for you to place a tablet into it for watching movies or listening to music. The E!luminate is a great lighting system that is simple and effective. It is designed to hang from the top of the tent and provide substantial lighting.
