Nestled between rugged mountain passes and sun-kissed desert highways, rooftop tents have sparked a quiet revolution in modern overlanding. No longer confined by flat campsites or bulky ground tarps, adventurers now unfurl a cozy perch atop their vehicle—and the 23ZERO Walkabout 62 Soft Shell 3-Person Rooftop Tent exemplifies this paradigm shift. In an era when wanderlust collides with eco-conscious design, this tent marries convenience with sustainability, delivering a three-person sleeping platform that’s as thoughtful about recycled materials as it is about speedy setup. Whether you’re chasing alpine meadows at dawn or chasing sunsets along coastal byways, understanding what truly sets the Walkabout 62 apart is crucial. In this deep-dive review, we’ll journey from raw specs to real-world experiences—unpacking every nuance of design, performance, and value—so you can rest easier under the stars.

Overview of the 23ZERO Walkabout 62

Launched in 2018 as a soft-shell alternative to traditional pop-up hardshell designs, the Walkabout series from 23ZERO quickly garnered attention for its blend of lightweight engineering and eco-friendly materials. The Walkabout 62 Soft Shell is the latest evolution—a queen-sized sleeping surface measuring 62″ × 96″ that accommodates up to three adults without feeling cramped. When deployed, its towering 52″ interior height grants most campers the freedom to sit upright, change clothes, or read comfortably. Folded down, its profile shrinks to a sleek 48″ W × 63″ L × 14″ H, reducing aerodynamic drag and preserving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency on long journeys.

Weighing in at 152 pounds (including ladder and attached fabric components), the Walkabout 62 balances portability and ruggedness. This weight means you’ll need a roof rack system rated for at least 200 pounds of dynamic load—standard on modern SUVs and trucks but worth verifying before purchase. In terms of price, the base model retails around USD 1,999, placing it squarely between budget-priced canvas options and premium hardshell tents. Yet, as we’ll explore, it compensates by bundling in clever accessories—namely boot bags and a gear loft—that most competitors sell separately, enhancing overall value.

Historical Context and Design Philosophy

23ZERO, a South African brand founded by overland enthusiasts, built its reputation on lightweight, durable gear that minimizes environmental impact. The DNA of the Walkabout 62 can be traced to early soft-shell prototypes, where user feedback prompted iterative refinements: larger mesh windows for airflow, more robust mounting brackets, and the introduction of Light Suppression Technology (LST) to combat early-morning glare. Over successive model years, these adjustments coalesced into a refined package: a tent that feels premium without resorting to heavy materials or complex hardware.

Key Features

Soft Shell Design & Light Suppression Technology

Soft-shell rooftop tents often face criticism for flapping in high winds or leaking during torrential downpours. The Walkabout 62 addresses these concerns head-on. Its canopy fabric—ECO13B—is a ripstop blend of poly-cotton and 900D recycled polyester Oxford, treated with a PU waterproof membrane. This material repels moisture, and its reinforced weave resists tears and abrasions from gear and branches.

Layered beneath the outer skin is the Light Suppression Technology (LST) lining, which reduces up to 90% of ambient light. This blackout affects overlanders who rise at dawn to catch scenic vistas or wrestle with early-morning dew. LST panels integrate seamlessly with mesh-backed privacy shades: zip them closed to block prying eyes and bugs, or open them wide to reveal panoramic views. Strategic vent placements at the head and foot of the tent encourage cross-ventilation, mitigating condensation even in humid climates.

Mattress & Comfort

At its core, the Walkabout 62 delivers a 3″-thick rebound foam mattress engineered to cradle weary joints. This isn’t mere camping-store foam; it’s an open-cell polyurethane blend that bounces back night after night without sagging. The two-piece design splits down the middle for easier storage and cleaning yet locks together to present a seamless sleeping surface.

Measuring an actual queen-size footprint, the mattress accommodates couples sprawled side by side and solo sleepers who crave extra legroom. Underneath, a supportive aluminum base frame keeps the bed flat, eliminating the hammock-like sag that some rooftop tents exhibit. Removable covers—crafted from a breathable cotton blend—are machine-washable, an often-overlooked luxury when pet hair, sand, and campsite grime inevitably accumulate.

Four-Season Durability

Overlanding seldom adheres to fair-weather forecasts. The Walkabout 62’s ECO13B fabric, seam-sealed at critical junctions, stands up to heavy rainstorms, while its rigid transit cover—constructed from 600 GSM UV-stabilized PVC—shields the folded tent from hail, sun, and falling debris. The ladder’s aluminum rungs and powder-coated steel brackets maintain stability in subzero conditions, and an optional insulated winter liner further reduces heat loss when snow blankets the world outside.

In desert environments, the tent’s breathable cotton blend releases trapped heat at daybreak, preventing a sauna-like interior. At altitude, the soft-shell walls flex slightly, absorbing wind gusts rather than rattling you awake. Across continents, from Patagonia’s fjords to Namibia’s dunes, users report the Walkabout 62 handling extremes with minimal maintenance—a testament to robust fabric treatments and corrosion-resistant hardware.

Eco-Friendly & Sturdy Construction

Sustainability underpins every facet of the Walkabout 62’s manufacture. The main canopy fabric repurposes discarded PET bottles into durable polyester yarns, while the PU coating employs water-based chemistry free of harmful phthalates. Even the packaging is recyclable, reflecting 23ZERO’s commitment to a circular product lifecycle.

Yet eco-credentials never compromise structural integrity. The integrated frame—an array of bent 1″ diameter aluminum tubes—reinforces corners and supports the canvas under load. Stress-tested mounts clamp securely onto common cross-bars, and quick-release knobs allow for tool-free installation in under 15 minutes. With a rated load capacity of 300 pounds on the ladder and an overall dynamic rating of 200 pounds, the Walkabout 62 is as dependable as it is conscientious.

Accessories: Boot Bag & Gear Loft

The inclusivity of accessories sets the Walkabout 62 apart from its rivals. Two universal boot bags are affixed along the tent’s base, each offering two 15.5″ W × 21″ D shelves. These pockets cradle muddy footwear, wet gear, or small drybags—preventing clutter inside the sleeping area. Durable mesh bottoms allow moisture to drain, while zip-close fronts keep contents secure during transit.

Above head level, a detachable gear loft secures with quick-clip points. This netted platform affords roughly 8 square feet of storage, perfect for stashing essentials like headlamps, reading glasses, electronics chargers, or a paperback novel. By relegating gear overhead, campers free up floor space, maintain tidiness, and reduce trip hazards when climbing into tight quarters at night.

Additional Accessories & Compatibility

Beyond boot bags and the gear loft, 23ZERO’s accessory ecosystem expands versatility:

• Walkabout Annexes: Available in tall (standing height) and short (footprint-only) configurations, these zip-on annexes create vestibules or privacy rooms. They feature 600D ripstop walls, zippered windows, and multiple ground-tarp compatibility options.
• Winter Liner: A quilted, insulating insert that wraps the interior tent walls, retaining heat to –10°F.
• Rain Fly Extension: Adds extra coverage over windows and doors, redirecting rain and snow sideways.
• Soft-Shell Mattress Protector & Fitted Sheets: 100% organic cotton linens with waterproof backing guard the mattress foam from spills and odors.

All accessories attach via the tent’s universal Keder rail, and the frame’s generous interior fittings readily accept aftermarket organizers, lighting systems, or smartphone mounts. The universal mounting system works across most cross-bar roof racks—Thule, Yakima, Rhino‐Rack, and more—requiring only common U-bolts or T-bolt adapters.

Setup & Tear-Down Process

One of the Walkabout 62’s lauded virtues is its simplicity. Two people can deploy the tent in under three minutes: unzip the transit cover, unlatch the external ties, and pivot the canopy skyward. The gas strut assists in holding the shell in place as you extend the ladder, pull down the mattress base, and clip in the cover straps. To pack up, reverse the steps—collapse the mattress frame, fold the canopy, latch the covers, and zip closed: no hammers, no fiddly poles, no wrestling straps.

A seasoned pair can become nearly automatic: one handles the cover while the other aligns the base. The dual gas struts balance the load, preventing the shell from slamming shut or requiring excessive force. Despite occasional dew or slight fabric stiffness in early spring, users report consistent sub-three-minute deployment times—vital when seeking shelter from sudden storms or seizing fleeting golden-hour light for photography.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Spacious Capacity: A queen-sizedA queen-sized mattress accommodates three adults, a couple, and a child.	Weight: At 152 lb, it demands a robust roof rack with a minimum 200 lb dynamic rating.
Rapid Setup: Tool-free deployment in under three minutes, even in wind or rain.	Price Point: The base price is around USD 2,000, making it a considerable investment.
Superior Comfort: A rebound foam mattress minimizes aches and has removable, washable covers.	Soft-Shell Vulnerability: Canvas walls are more prone to punctures than hard shells.
All-Season Performance: Seam-sealed canopy, sturdy PVC transit cover, optional winter liner.	Condensation: In humid climates, ventilation management is crucial to prevent moisture.
Eco-Conscious Materials: 100% recycled polyester, water-based PU coating, recyclable packaging.	Accessory Pricing: Annexes and winter liners add cost if used frequently.
Bundled Storage: Boot bags and gear loft are included, so gear stays organized and off the tent floor.

Deep Dive into the Trade-offs

• Weight vs. Durability: The 152-pound mass reflects heavy-duty fabric and reinforced frames; shaving pounds would mean thinner canvas or fewer features. If sub-130 lb is critical, consider hardshell designs—but expect a higher price and reduced airflow.
• Soft-Shell vs. Hardshell: Soft-shell design yields more headroom and larger windows yet lacks the near-silence of hard-shell models in gale-force winds. Conversely, hardshell shells lock out moisture completely but often sacrifice ventilation.

Comparison with Competitors

iKamper Skycamp 2.0

The iKamper Skycamp 2.0 commands attention for its sleek, fold-down aluminum shell and king-size sleeping platform. Setup takes 60 seconds, and the proprietary Hard Shell design seals out rain entirely. However, its 227-pound heft and USD 3,899 price tag place it well above the Walkabout 62. The Skycamp’s lack of included storage accessories—boot bags or loft—means extra aftermarket spending, whereas 23ZERO bundles these at no additional cost.

Feature	23ZERO Walkabout 62	iKamper Skycamp 2.0
Sleeping Capacity	3 adults	3-4 adults
Closed Profile (W×L×H in)	48 × 63 × 14	85.8 × 54.3 × 12.5
Total Weight	152 lb	227 lb
Base Price	USD 1,999	USD 3,899
Setup Time	~2–3 minutes	~1 minute
Included Storage Accessories	Boot bags & gear loft	None
Material	Soft-shell ripstop canvas	Powder-coated aluminum

Alternative Soft-Shell & Canvas Models

• Smittybilt Overlander: At roughly USD 900, it’s wallet-friendly but narrower (50″ wide) and lacks LST blackout panels—resulting in sleepless dawn wakes.
• Thule Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3: A 3-person canvas tent priced around USD 1,500; heavier at 168 lb, slower to set up, and fewer integrated storage solutions.
• Roofnest Falcon: A hardshell at USD 2,200 and 125 lb; excels in stormproof shelter but misses the airy openness of the Walkabout’s mesh walls and lofted gear storage.

Ideal Use Cases

• Family Overlanding: Parents with young children relish the Walkabout 62’s generous footprint and accessory pockets—boots, toys, and nighttime storybooks stay organized.
• Photography Expeditions: Landscape photographers treasure the rapid setup for golden-hour shoots, plus the gear loft’s easy access to camera bags and filters.
• Eco-Minimalist Travelers: Those prioritizing sustainability applaud the recycled-content fabric and low-impact manufacturing processes.
• Four-Season Sports Enthusiasts: Skiers and snowboarders stash wet boots in the boot bags and rely on the winter liner to trap warmth after cold alpine days.
• Remote Work Adventures: Digital nomads convert the annex into an office nook—laptop on a fold-out tray, power bank tethered overhead, and a view that beats any café.

Maintenance, Warranty & Care Tips

To protect your investment and ensure years of service, follow these guidelines:

• Cleaning: After muddy or sandy trips, remove the mattress and wash the covers in cold water with mild detergent. Gently hose down the canopy; avoid high-pressure washers that may compromise seam sealants.
• Drying: Always air-dry the tent fully before packing away. Moisture trapped in folds can ferment, leading to mildew. On humid days, prop one side open for airflow.
• Inspection: Quarterly, inspect fabric seams, ladder rungs, and mounting hardware. Tighten any loose knobs, reapply seam sealer as needed, and replace worn zipper sliders.
• Storage: If storing for months, detach from the vehicle, clean thoroughly, and store in a cool, dry place. Keep the transit cover loosely zipped to allow residual moisture to escape.
• Warranty: 23ZERO offers a two-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects in materials and artistry. Accidental damage (e.g., punctures from tree branches) falls outside warranty—repair kits and replacement fabrics are available for purchase.

FAQs

How many people can sleep in the Walkabout 62?

Up to three adults on its queen-size (62″ × 96″) mattress.

How long does setup take?

Tool-free deployment in about 2–3 minutes.

Is it all-season capable?

Yes, the seam-sealed canopy, durable transit cover, and optional winter liner can handle any weather.

What storage comes included?

Two boot bags and an overhead gear loft—no extra cost.

What roof rack do I need?

A system rated for at least 200 lb dynamic load to support its 152 lb weight.

Conclusion

From the eco-minded materials in its canopy to the bundled boot bags and gear loft, the 23ZERO Walkabout 62 Soft Shell rooftop tent is a compelling choice for overlanders who demand comfort, convenience, and conscientious design. Its queen-sized mattress, blackout lining, and four-season durability address common pain points in remote camping—while a rapid tool-free setup ensures you spend more time admiring sunsets and less time wrestling with poles. Yes, the 152-pound weight and USD 2,000 price tag are nontrivial, but they underscore the tent’s premium construction and accessory-rich package. For families, photographers, and eco-minimalists alike, the Walkabout 62 is ready to transform any vehicle into a mobile sanctuary—where the horizon is your wall and the stars are your ceiling. If you’re researching a soft-shell solution that doesn’t compromise on space, storage, or sustainability, this review should serve as your roadmap under the open sky.