Exploring the Future of Camping: A Night with Dacia's Affordable Sleep Pack

Introduction

If you hear a guy say he’s going to sleep in his car for the night, it’s often met with concerned glances. However, this time it's not what you think.

The Setup

The Dacia Duster, equipped with the InNature Sleep Pack, features a fold-out bed, a mattress, and a tent, promising to redefine outdoor sleeping experiences, all for a mere £2,090. Can this setup truly compete with high-end camping experiences? Let's find out as I spend the night in a picturesque field in the New Forest.

First Impressions

On first sight, I hit a snag before even starting the engine: the spacious boot is taken over by the sleep pack, leaving no room for luggage. While the Duster boasts a 517-litre load space, the pack consumes it entirely, forcing me to find alternative storage solutions for my overnight bag and essentials on the back seats.

Driving Experience

Fortunately, the added weight doesn’t affect driving. I effortlessly navigate a scenic 45-minute drive without noticing a significant drop from the official fuel economy of 56 mpg. Arriving at my campsite, I discover that I chose a spot without shade, and the temperature is soaring at 38°C. Time to set up camp!

Setting Up Camp

The first task is assembling the bed. I had a feeling this would be the tricky part, as a prior test run at home showed potential complications. However, it turns out easier than anticipated; simply lower the rear seats, pull out the wooden bed base (which is surprisingly heavy), and unfold the mattress. Adding side cushions to prevent falling into the footwell is easy, and finally, you attach the window blackout covers.

Next comes the tent, which seems simple but proves otherwise. Unlike typical tents, this one connects directly to the open boot of the Duster, which creates complications on windy days. As the wind catches the tent, it threatens to lift and pull out the tent pegs, adding to the challenge.

The Neighbors’ Reaction

As I struggle with the assembly, amused onlookers form a small crowd. My previous confidence wavers as they chuckle at my predicament. I can almost hear their thoughts: