Portable, pressurized water supply solution
Just when you think you've seen all the brilliant tools that humanity has engineered to tame the wild unpredictability of the great outdoors, along comes something like the WaterPort Weekender. An 8-gallon water tank designed to make your outdoor escapades feel a bit less rugged, without robbing you of the authenticity of your expedition.
Right off the bat, the size. With a capacity of 8 gallons, this water tank ensures that you won't be running dry during your escapades, be they mountaintop ascents or long-winding road trips through the deserts. It's no lightweight when full, mind you. It goes from a manageable 26 pounds when empty, to a formidable 91 pounds when filled to the brim. A trade-off, certainly, but one worth making for the benefits it offers.
Now, the utility of this gadget extends far beyond the simple storage of water. The Weekender is self-pressurizing, a feature that adds a considerable degree of versatility. Need an impromptu shower after a long, sweaty hike? Fancy a quick rinse for your gear? The high-pressure spray nozzle has got you covered.
The attention to detail is impressive too. The hose and tank are made from food-grade plastics, ensuring that your water remains pure and safe for drinking. It's a reassuring quality, especially when you're on the move and hydration is paramount.
I'm also intrigued by the built-in Schrader valve. Whether you have an onboard air system or just a simple bicycle pump, you can pressurize the tank easily, up to 40psi. Even better, if you don't have a hose or a means of air, they've got you covered with their pump cap for on-demand pressure. Just a few pumps and you're good to go!
What's more, it's user-friendly, mounting easily onto roof racks, be they platform or cross bar style. So whether you're hitting the surf or the slopes, this water tank is game to tag along.
I'm fond of any gear that combines practicality and simplicity, and the Weekender does just that. It's a fine bit of kit, designed to keep you hydrated and clean as you go about your adventures. It comes at a price, sure. But I see it as a long-term investment, one that pays dividends every time you head into the wild. If the great outdoors is your second home, I'd say this is a worthy addition to your kit.
Pros:
- Large Capacity: With 8 gallons, it's an impressive amount of water storage. You have enough water for showers, cleaning equipment, or cooking without worrying about running out soon.
- Self-Pressurizing: The ability to pressurize the water in the tank is a game changer. This enables high-pressure sprays which can be used for showers or cleaning.
- Food-Grade Materials: The use of food-grade plastic for the hose and tank means the water stored within it is safe for consumption.
- Ease of Use: With options to pressurize the tank using a garden hose, air pump, or the included pump cap, it's versatile and easy to use. Plus, its compatibility with different roof rack systems adds to its convenience.
- Durability: The build and design of the tank suggests that it is sturdy and made to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Cons:
- Weight: When full, the tank weighs about 91 pounds. That's quite heavy and could be a concern for smaller vehicles or for those who want to maximize cargo space and minimize weight.
- Price: At $549.99, it's not exactly an inexpensive purchase. The price tag may deter some buyers, particularly those who don't frequently embark on outdoor adventures that would require such a system.
- Size: While the capacity is a boon, the physical dimensions of the tank could be an issue for vehicles with limited roof space.
- No Heating Element: While this is not a drawback per se, the lack of a heating element means you're limited to the ambient temperature of the water. For those looking for warm showers, this could be a con.
- Dependency on External Pressure Source: If you don't have a source of pressure like an air pump or hose, you might find it a bit cumbersome to pressurize the tank manually using the pump cap.
In the end, it's all about weighing these pros and cons against your personal needs and preferences. The WaterPort Weekender offers a range of features that make it a great tool for outdoor enthusiasts, but it's essential to consider its limitations and cost.
Update: The WaterPort Weekender is now called the Klymit WaterPORT 8.0 Gallon Water Tank.
