Swags

Swags - or swag tents - were traditionally a lightweight bedroll carried by outback Australian agricultural workers who had to travel long distances by foot or on horseback the modern swag has developed into many shapes, sizes and designs to better suit specific needs.  Swags today have evolved, and it's rare to meet a swag that looks anything like the originals.  Still today, swags are a great bit of camping equipment that suits many campers needs.  Following are some of the key design differences you can consider:

• Traditional Swags
  Traditional swags are a basic canvas sleeve with a mattress inside that can be rolled and unrolled in seconds - perfect for those who like a no-fuss setup. Some of these swags have still been modernised with the addition of features such as insect-proof mesh head panels, head poles and foot supports to keep the weight of the canvas off the occupant, thicker mattresses, full length zippers and PVC floors to improve waterproofing if the swag is sitting in water.   Some still prefer the canvas base due to better breathability and no extra waterproofing requirement due to only setting up their swag where the water can run away from the swag.
• Dome Swags
  Dome swags were the next evolution in swag design introduced by Darche over twenty years ago. These swags come in a variety of designs - originally starting with a single dome tent style fibreglass or steel pole bent over the head area of the swag to keep the weight of the canvas off the occupant and give them breathing room when raining. These progressed to include a foot pole so that no canvas is resting on the occupant.  Insect-proof mesh was added so that the swag could be left open on warm nights allowing for ventilation whilst keeping those pesky biting insects off! Some of the variations now include a third centre pole, multiple head-poles, ridge poles and PVC floors. A nice feature on some of these swags is a handy boot mat to stand on whilst you take your boots off so that you don't drag dirt into your nice clean swag! Swags with ridge poles are great for when you set up your swag on ground that you can't put pegs into as they are free standing.
• Air Swags
  Air Swags are the latest evolution in swag design once again being pioneered by Darche. This innovative technology means no traditional pole assembly is required making set up and pack down fast and easy.  Air poles are extraordinarly strong, and are a great option to consider if you're in the market for a new swag!
• Stretcher Tents
  Stretcher tents, cant really be described as a swag - but they share the same appeal as swags and regularly compete for the interest of the same camper. So we've included them here. Stretcher tents, are exactly that - a stretcher, with a tent built ontop of that frame.  These are a great option for many campers, who are wanting to be off the ground and who are looking for a fuss free way to enjoy a good nights sleep! 

A fourth variation to the swag design are the stretcher tents. Whilst not strictly swags, these poor guys have no real home, being stuck somewhere between a camping stretcher, a tent and a swag! These brilliant innovations are super quick and easy to set up and pack away. Providing protection from insects and the elements whilst providing a comfortable sleeping surface off the ground!