Van Life Essentials: I Bought A Pop Up Tent on Amazon for Vanlife

[@mitchwinder1204]

I’ve had the small Clam shelter for a few years. I use it for both camping, and around the house. It’s invaluable. I camp in a truck camper shell and use it as a place to stand and change clothes, (I have the side curtains.) stow coolers & gear, and as a place to get out of the bad weather and bugs without having to stay inside the shell. Works great on my patio at home, too, when the mosquitoes are angry. Yes, it’s pricey. But it’s a much better value than the cheaper units, which don’t last. Clam is known for portable ice fishing shanties so we in the northern climates are quite familiar with the brand.

[@BearUkulele]

I have the larger version and love it. However, it does trap heat even when set up in full shade. It’s best if there’s a breeze or it’s not too hot in the first place. Later in the year when temps start to drop, it allows you to enjoy the outdoor scenery while remaining relatively warm. The smaller one shown here is perfect for a couple of people and easily stows in a van. The larger one works for families, but is heavier and better for those with larger vehicles.

[@PatCor1000]

I would like one to set out on my deck. I know there is no floor in it but I could put carpet under it and wondering if I could just tie it down to my deck. Do you think it would work like that? Sure looks easy to put up.

[@UtahTenkara]

I have been using the CLAM shelter for my Tenkara fly fishing adventures in the mountains of Utah/Idaho/Wyoming and just posted a review on Amazon for it. It is a game changer! I got stuck earlier in the summer in my Honda Pilot Micro Camper because it was raining and then the mosquitoes came out and it was miserable. I found the CLAM shelter and bought it and have been using it this summer. It literally takes under a minute to set up and take down and is 12'x12'x7 1/2' tall and just has a ton of room. It also has easy to attach velcro side panels so it can turn into a hard sided shelter if needed. Just two nights ago I was using it at 9000 ft where it was in the 20's and put a heater buddy in it and even with the screen sides it still heated up nicely. Also hung a solar Luci light from the top for lighting. The materials on the CLAM are top quality also. I love the CLAM shelter and will never go adventuring without it.

[@deethompson1882]

Just one question: What do you do when your in it,and a bear comes up on you?

[@gailkellum832]

@@deethompson1882 um... kiss your clam goodbye? Lol!

[@athomas2803]

I recently purchased mine because of this video. First time I set it up, it took me 5 min, . And it was as easy as shown. My husband has a different type of canopy and it takes at least 20 min to set up. I love that I as a woman can do this one by myself, thanks for the video.

[@lynnej.9357]

This is an excellent way to increase your living space, as well as being able to keep your van in the sun while you are in the shade! Also an excellent value, I think, for the amount of space it provides and the fact that it appears to be so well made. We are not nomads, but campers with a 15' vintage fibreglass trailer. We were looking for a bigger camper until we found a good, sturdy dining tent that is fairly easy to put up. It cost a lot, but saved us more, because we aren't shopping for a bigger trailer any more!

[@ericdrews5050]

I love mine. I am 71 and have heart and lung problems and can still set it up in under 2 minutes. In my defense it’s a larger model 😀😀😀 You can purchase panels with or without windows to fully enclose it for privacy, use as a tent, or stay dry. I put up 2 side panels for shade

[@iasimovscientist4981]

I have two walls I bought different brand. Can I attach these some way?

[@joelpocalips]

@@iasimovscientist4981 have you figured out a way to attach then? I was thinking that you can go buy velcro strips from a hardware store and stick them where ever you want to make it work

[@mikemoreau932]

You've found the perfect model/demonstrator/video partner. She's believable, photogenic, and speaks well.

[@haroldfitz5146]

A definite thumbs up on this product Bob and KC. Anything to keep away the mosquitos. A cheap blue tarp could be used as a floor. I'm gonna get one. Thank you!

[@libbyo3907]

What a nice pop up. KC is so sweet too! You are too Bob! I loved the intro you guys did...too funny! :-)

[@BrokerBarbara119]

I love my Coleman Easy up Tent for weekenders it's a 10 X 12 with 7' on center. This would be great for evenings to sit out here in Northern Michigan where the Great Lakes are gorgeous but the bugs are not! Love it! Thank you Bob! What a pleasant Gal Friday in KC! She sparkles, so refreshing!

[@marthasalter405]

KC is adding some great life and humor to your videos, Bob! Love it! On another note, I've considered this Clam shelter and I'm very glad to see the review

[@kathrynkenyon785]

Thanks Bob, I bought a pavilion clam and took it to the Van Build in Lake Havasu, AZ. It worked GREAT to get out of the hot van but remain indoors in the shade and bug free! GREAT PRODUCT! As an older woman I was looking for something easy to handle. Even though the larger shelter is 40 lbs, it comes in a very nice bag with shoulder strap so still easy to move around. I can set it up in about a minute. 😁

[@Limicola1]

I just got mine and am looking forward to using it while camping. The brown version (white top) has flaps around the edge of the top so when you put the side panels on, these flaps go over the panels. This prevents water from running off the roof and under the side panels.

[@cocacolafiesta]

Just bought the brown one for that reason as someone on another channel stressed that very point.

[@gl779]

Hello! Thank you for showing us how to properly setup and take down the Clam Pop-Up shelter. We looked into getting one a few months back but every website we visited did not do a good job in really showing how the item works. Now because of your in depth demonstration we are reconsidering purchasing the Traveler Shelter. Thank you once again.

[@janmariolle]

I watch this video last year and really liked this pop up as a solution for extra room outside my teardrop. I just purchased one through your amazon shop. Thank you so much

[@MillieonaVespa]

Love the two of you together on camera..it really works well ...! And Casey seems so sweet

[@amechealle5918]

You two crack me up with the clam shell shelter. Love your videos Bob! Thank you. 💕

[@TXGranny2]

We've had ours a few years and love it! I recommend it to anyone that wants a screened in "room".

[@anyacreate]

YAY!!!!! I totally love my Clam! Everything exactly as described!

[@105cathy]

We have the Escape! Love it. Excellent product in every way. It rides on top of our Pathfinder beside the Thule. We’re full time in our Casita.

[@chatty_cathie6391]

Stumbled upon this video. We purchased one last summer (2021). Had a bigger one from another manufacturer that promised it w/b easy to set up (it is), take down (it is), fold up and store away OMG after watching numerous "fold it like a taco" videos and reading directions still can't do it. Gave up and bought the clam. I am 5' tall and can put it up, take it down and put back in bag (which unlike the other one, actually fits back in the bag) with no problem. We now have the panels but have never used. Watched your video (twice) and can now put those on easily. Love it.

[@JoelVooBaby]

Yes I agree with Ms Libby its wonderful pop up shelter. I also enjoyed the intro. You guys are a good team.

[@lindakrause8793]

KC, your playful nature is beginning to show! Love you giving us a laugh!

[@Randylj1]

I sold my Coleman 10 X 10 popup screen house/tent. It was very similar in setup. This looks sturdier with more shade. Great idea!

[@daylight5500]

You guys are great ambassadors for living a life of quality.

[@bonbon5980]

What a great product! It makes an excellent outdoor living space and could double as a great sleeping space for extra camp dwellers who dont mind sleeeping out ....and with bug protection. I read quite a few Amazon reviews on this product with minimal issues in any of them. My birthday coming soon and myson just asked what I would like. Now I know!! Thanks again for a great product review......and I'll remember to use or have my son use your link..lol!

[@Goodgrief7811]

That’s a great alternative for shade and still be bug free.

[@joycebarnett5813]

This is a great addition to your van camping Thanks for sharing

[@sadiehusko7144]

Just a little suggestion of your looking for elbow room, move your table to the center and sit facing each other at different ends? You are the fearless leader with a noble assistant😍

[@mayinnlin1879]

Thank you Bob and KC for sharing! 😍👍

[@cyndifoore7743]

Very nice! It would be great at night too, to keep the bugs and creepy crawlies away. Not a bad price for the well engineered construction and ease of putting up and tearing down.

[@rickardenstedt]

Lovely video , Casey makes it more interesting with a conversation between you both as well. Invite her in coming videos if possible. Sincerely Rickard from Sweden

[@Beverlylovespaper]

Bob, you are great at covering every aspect of a topic. Great video! Your assistant is also a great fit for you. Very nice young lady.

[@Kat1791]

That's an impressive pop-up shelter. KC seems like an awesome person too. Great job you guys

[@heathergentlyinthewind806]

Thank you so much for this!! Up and coming newbies like myself are lucky to have people like you to have us so well prepared!

[@stellarhodes4162]

Very smart design!

[@kathrynkenyon785]

I love mine! Used it as a storage space at a friend's house in rainy Washington state as I worked on my van. All that rain and everything stayed dry with all the panels on! 👍💖

[@manondesrochers5729]

Thank you for this great video. I love that you show us how easy it is to set up and down by one person. You convinced me I will get one.

[@montanadivacreations9267]

We have the next size up. We camp in a small ALiner and so we can carry the Clam Gazebo in there. It gives us an extra room where we can either cook or hang out. We have the side panels too our panels have windows in them. We LOVE IT. Easy Up and Easy Down.

[@cybersecretary]

that looks cool. I was looking at pop up tents and did not see this Clam one. Very informative.

[@grannieannie1371]

That offers a fair bit of shelter is easy to set up and take down and still feels like your in the outdoors. Good solution.

[@richhahn2443]

I had a clam six pack for several years. It's great except in strong wind. I added extra velcro to sides and panels to keep rain out, plus I waterproofed the top. Trying to put it up in strong wind is almost impossible for 1 person because the tent acts like a big kite. Also, in a strong wind, the sides may pop in. I even had the top pop down during really strong winds and then fill with rain water. When using in sand, it's a good idea to use sand spikes in addition to the ones that come with the tent. I don't know about this particular model, but I know the six pack wasn't made to use in windy conditions. Otherwise, a fantastic shelter.

[@srameypr]

Thank you - I was wondering about how it would behave in the wind.

[@Brandi_Hill]

im beach camping right now. its not wind friendly i have steaks and heavy bricks reinforcing and it fills with air and blows evedhwhere.

[@richardhouvener6423]

@@Brandi_Hill Steaks are for eating. Yum! Stakes are for vampires and tents.

[@mesjosh363]

I bought a Coleman pop-up a few months back, but I wish I’d known about these Clams. The Coleman is fine, but doesn’t provide nearly as much shade, and hasn’t got the optional panels. Plus, after a couple months of heavy use it’s showing some wear. I’m sure I’ll get another year out of it, but after seeing the Clams at the MN state fair this week I’d prefer one of those.

[@danathomas3479]

Hi Bob!!! Good to see you

[@lynneb6510]

This video inspired me to get the 12 ft clam shelter. We adore it. We use it boondocking for our kitchen and office. It is awesome in the rain. We got the wind panels for all but the door.

[@kennethbredow3098]

My van is a Chevy Venture with low miles, This will be perfect for my van ! Thanks from Ken in Michigan.

[@Limicola1]

I found the easiest way to set it up is to temporarily stake one side and then pop out the side opposite. Makes it a lot easier. I've had mine for a year now and love it. Mine is the smallest version.

[@heatherrenton2086]

Thank you for this! This will be my next big investment for van living.

[@WhatTheHeckTV]

Hang a tarp over the top if raining this is nice

[@temp4now]

That's a great idea!

[@keeneye6274]

Love your idea, Bob you are always full of practical idea , and most important : affordable! Thx +++++++

[@carolmadge4012]

Thank you, it can be use at the park also back yard getting use to living on the road!

[@tynado1173]

Your channel is excellent. Love my clam tent and so does everyone else when they want to escape the elements.

[@eveorlando3389]

Wow, real nice.

[@808bAler]

You can stake out the bottom tabs of the side panels to increase the airflow through the shelter while maintaining the shade benefits. Neat shelter option for getting out into your Earth-size office.

[@noahcount7132]

Great show and tell video!

[@louisecross]

Also nice as a bug free play space for toddlers out of the sun and somewhat contained.

[@mdelight2488]

This is awesome. I've been looking for a quite spot to be when I visit family and just need to get away for quiet time. I found the answer. Thanks for sharing.

[@daringgreatly8473]

Your channel never gets old. I look forward to every video.

[@mahdiomran6345]

Thanks Bob 💚👍✋👏 Thanks KC

[@kayleeskottageonwheels]

That’s nice. be worth the investment. I would need to get the bigger one. escape. I have a 10 man tent that I just bought this similar to that. All ready put together. I just have to up pop it up and I has LED lighting in the tent. it’s pretty cool

[@j.taires5889]

so much information ~ thank you both! bright blessings!

[@lisaryder1668]

You guys rock! ,And make a great team...live your enthusiasm and fun. Thx for another great vid!😁👍

[@EvieVermont]

I love this pair of folks, as Bob and KC each bring something different to the table. K C seems sweet and practical- level-headed and warm. Bob? Love you but we all know you tend to run on and on! KC seems to be keeping you grounded! Terrific ideas and glad you give prices, options and practical tips! I’m totally excited about this CLAM! Headed out this Spring \ if it ever comes/ and this Clam is just the thing! Had considered the Napier SUV tent that hooks onto the rear of a car, but reviews show it may take an hour to put up! Love you two! Keep on sharing your hopeful messages!

[@pastorjustin4181]

This is first vid I've watched with this lovely woman. Watched it a second time listening closely to here her name. You were saying her and she but her name wasn't mentioned. Sad emotion from missing out. Now see in comments KC. so i guess thats this womans name. I Must watch more videos. 😳😊😎. Thanks for your hard/smart work your doing for us viewers. 🏁🏁🏁😊😎

[@olgaguer6443]

Grate job! Thank you!

[@deetrvl4life875]

Thank you!

[@sdh3237]

Thanks to Bob and KC for the fun an informative video.

[@cindychurch925]

Thanks, you two!! Good video. Great job

[@jgkgintx]

Hey Bob, I hadn't heard of the Clam before so thanks for the great video. It seems very practical and also efficient/utilitarian. It may not be for everyone, but what is, right? I can see it providing a solution to some campers' outside living space. Thanks again, well done.

[@MrWhyareyouhere]

Thanks for sharing.

[@Lauralietx]

I love these!!!

[@foto3077]

I bought the next size larger and will be using it in 2 weeks. Can't wait to try it. Thanks for the video

[@linda3703]

I love my Clam! Just a note, the brown ones have lips on the top edge which holds out the water in the rain when you add the rain/wind flys. I owned the largest one, the Pavilion for our group camping trips, but sold it and bought the smallest, the Traveler for my van life. They have large bottom flaps, which my dogs have not yet discovered they could get under (they are not in it without me!)

[@jonathanjacques7250]

I like her a lot! Great addition Bob

[@donnak8658]

I love my clam shelter. I have the 6x6' size and the panels I have have windows which are really nice. In Western Washington with heavy rain, I seam sealed it and added technical gear water proofing.

[@phyllismay6797]

That is such a great room! You both look like you were having fun!

[@duane4972]

Want to pass this on, On Amazon check the Reviews, I think it is the green ones that don't have a flap around the top to keep rain out, the other colors do, reviewers say the flap helps keep them dry in the rain. I'll be buying one soon ! Thanks for a good video on a good product.

[@irenew6202]

KC seems so nice..really like her personality...

[@northtexas4110]

Wow you could take a lil nap in your extended room sleep under the stars..Amazing Clam! Thank y'all for sharing.. Blessings

[@susiealamillo5140]

I love it. I will be getting one asap. Thank you both 💓

[@fancysfolly554]

Wow!! Y’all are really good actors. 😄😄❤️

[@temp4now]

You two are so great! So much fun watching your videos!!

[@tambrayork1652]

Thank you both of you. Gotta have one of those. That looks perfect.

[@bobbleheadwil5400]

Thank you, answered all my questions, now ready to order one, thanks again.😁👍

[@markchidlaw7676]

Excellent review... and charming presentation!

[@phyllisbickford9814]

Wow, that looks so useful! It would contain papers from blowing away, too.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

I have the Gazelle one, I love it, mine is bigger, with the panels it can be a summer tent and I can have my dogs supervised inside to give them a break from their tie ups, since in National Parks or any National Forest is the law to have dogs leashed or tied up.

[@ellagenoa5545]

I love your videos!

[@carlalafata9489]

Right on! Videos getting better all the time! Great job! Be safe, happy trails! Peace and Love ❤️

[@yachtsteve]

Wow, that's just what I need, thanks. Especially talking about why the bigger one didn't work for KC. That was interesting because you know the typical mindset is so that one's good enough for her and I'll get the really big one but seeing that thought process that the bigger one is just physically too large was great info.

[@unclelar819]

Already had this on my "Want" list! Thanks for the video!!!

[@evanx70]

Three Cheers KC - Hip Hip Hooray!!!

[@LiveSimpleLiveFree]

Very cool! Thank you. 😀

[@StaceyBillsAdventures]

Thanks for the video been looking for something compact and easy to setup fast... Bill :)

[@chevyvantravel9735]

That Bob, every time i am thinking about something i need to buy and spending a lot of time researching he COMES UP WITH A video. is that good timing or what!!?? i will definitely get this one. Thank you and thanks to the assistant :>)

[@frankungaro237]

Always love your videos

[@hippichic787]

Bob - Casey! Your perfect for each other! Hahaha! Thank you! Perfect!

[@nancywolfe1983]

That looks like a keeper.

[@magma9138]

Nice size, and easy peasy. Sold!

[@2025devastated]

I got the brown on same size. The wind panel's have windows. (Only the brown one does). Love it. Got a used one on Amazon. Saved a ton. Love it.

[@leticia_v6404]

Thanks ❤