Car camping is an experience that has intrigued outdoor enthusiasts for decades, offering a mix of adventure and convenience. The Hele Box Solo Car Camping Platform promises to enhance that experience, making it easier for weekend warriors to enjoy a good night’s sleep without succumbing to the full van life. “This platform is aimed at those who occasionally camp in their vehicle, rather than dive into a full conversion,” said Graham Averill, an avid camper and reviewer.
Priced at $499, the Hele Box stands at 6 feet long with a width of 24 inches, making it spacious enough even for taller users. At the same time, it's lightweight, at only 25 pounds, though some might find it slightly cumbersome to carry in its case.
One of the standout features of the Hele Box is its remarkably straightforward setup. “Set up takes less than five minutes,” Averill mentioned, detailing the simple process of folding down the vehicle's back seats, assembling poles, clicking the legs into place, and laying down wooden slats. “You essentially double the space in your vehicle, giving you a bedroom ‘upstairs’ and a garage ‘downstairs.’”
The Hele Box is designed to fit into a variety of vehicles, with a handy chart available for potential buyers to check compatibility. For those who own popular models such as a Subaru Outback or Toyota 4Runner, rest assured, “It will fit,” confirmed Averill. The platform can also be shortened from 72 inches to 66 inches to accommodate smaller cars, ensuring flexibility.
Not only does the Hele Box adjust to a range of vehicles, but it also features independently adjustable legs, allowing users to modify headroom and storage space according to their needs. “I found a sweet spot that gave me enough headroom while allowing me to slide my camp kitchen and other items below the Hele Box,” Averill explained. The legs can be adjusted in half-inch increments from 8.75 inches to 14 inches, accommodating uneven surfaces and ensuring a flat sleeping area.
The construction of the platform itself features sturdy hardwood slats, providing a solid base for a sleeping pad. “Any sleeping pad that matches the Hele Box’s dimensions will work,” Averill noted. He also recommended the Hele Outdoors sleeping pad, which offers three inches of plush comfort, ensuring a good night’s rest.
An interesting feature of the Hele Box is its dual functionality. “At the risk of sounding like an infomercial—but wait, there’s more!” Averill teased. The platform can also be converted into a six-foot table that stands alone or extends from the trunk, proving useful for food preparation or dining during outdoor adventures.
While there are valid concerns regarding price and portability, the Hele Box Solo Car Camping Platform positions itself compellingly in the market by addressing the needs of casual campers. “It’s portable, customizable to your vehicle, and doubles as a table,” Averill pointed out, summarizing its advantages.
As car camping continues to grow in popularity, the Hele Box offers practical solutions for those looking to enhance their experience without investing in a full vehicle conversion. With its innovative design, versatility, and ease of use, the Hele Box may just be the perfect addition for casual campers seeking comfort on their outdoor escapades.