Until recently, we managed to survive on this planet mostly thanks to our ability to adapt. But, over the past 100 years or so, we have been trying to adapt the planet to our needs. If there’s a road to success… we’ll have to see.

Pandemic challenged our collective memory to surface our adaptation skills. Today, we try to mimic a lesson on how we can shape our behaviour on the surrounding reality, that is vacation or just a short escape, all by respecting the physical distancing needs.

Mercedes-Benz Zetros RV

The first suggestion for a vacation in 2021 is this Mercedes-Benz truck that took a trip on the conversion lane at Hartmann Spezialkarosserien. The result is a vehicle destined for adventure, capable to compete with Unimog when it comes to off-road evolution, but which, with the double rear axle configuration, can offer at the same time a load capacity of 16 tonnes. In other words, we are talking about a 16 tonnes hotel room put in motion by a 7.2 litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine that puts down 326 HP and 1,300 Nm. 800,000 EUR is what we could call a target price for such a model. Dependent on the options chosen, chassis version…the price can go up dramatically. Hartman can also do an armoured version, for those whose hobby is a vacation in the more „restless” areas of the planet. A 400 litres fresh-water tank, a 230 litres tank that can temporarily host wastewater, a system of four 220 Ah batteries automatically charged by a diesel generator and two 80 watts solar panels ensure survival on board. The tanks have a capacity of 530 litres, offering decent autonomy. Whether you choose to visit the Arctic Circle or a desert as your next adventure, the comfort is similar to the one in a 5-star hotel.

Volkswagen Grand California

California joined Volkswagen vocabulary sometime in 1988, with the launch of the camper trailer version based on T3 generation. But the love for these models started with the versions of T1 and T2 generations, signed Westfalia. But Volkswagen developing such a model on the new Crafter generation, I don’t think is a wonder to anyone.

We would go for Grand California 680, a model with 4,490 mm wheelbase and of 6,830 mm length. A model almost 7 m long which for sure cannot be driven like a VW Polo. But, you get a studio on wheels accommodating four seats, and enough sleeping space for four people, kitchen, bathroom with toilet seat and shower. The dimensions, especially the wheelbase, narrow down its moving abilities, even though the model can be also ordered with a four-wheel-drive 4Motion. But, for 58,000 EUR you get a model that can be the source of many memorable adventures.

AirTop for MINI

A more bohemian approach, but still very practical and affordable. MINI together with Autohome developed a special edition of the rooftop tent AirTop.Autohome has over 50 years’ experience in developing and production of rooftop tents for cars, and its products are used both for the leisure sector and professional expeditions.

The tent installation is eased by the roof bars, a standard feature for the new MINI Countryman. This allows the use of a cross bars set available in MINI Shop as MINI original accessory. The tent’s restraint system to the roof can be installed on this support quite easily without special tools. The rooftop support provides a sturdy base to fix the tent to the roof, which is safely and steady locked on by using steel clamps, included.

When uninstalled, the rooftop tent resembles a conventional transport box. Aerodynamically optimised, the lines of the fiberglass case reduce air resistance and wind noise. To open it, it is only a matter of taking out the safety clamps – two in front and one in the back. After that, the structure of the tent is automatically pushed up by four gas springs.

Inside, the mobile accommodation unit is 94 centimetres hight. Sleeping area for MINI fans who want to escape during the day and to stay on top at night, is 2.10 m long and 1.3 m width – enough to accommodate two adults. For 2,836 euro, you get a bed to which you can attach any view you like.

Kuoka Offline by Ader

The classic camper could be the answer… as the virus forced us to seek solutions allowing us several degrees of liberty. This is how we discovered this Romanian made camper. A model whose limits are determined only by the car to which it is coupled and the talent of the driver. We start from a budget of 8,390 EUR, about 10 times less than what we would pay for a customised Grand California and 100 times less than a Zetros. Frankly speaking, it’s all about having a place to lay down and sleep, other than the inside of your own car. 2,450 mm long and 1,360 mm width, the camper offers a two persons’ bed. With options that amount to 3,300 EUR, this two-wheel ladybug can provide you with heat, kitchen, fridge and water tanks.

Linley Picnic Hamper by Mulliner

A picnic that could get „costly”, but at least guarantees the physical distancing. We can choose as a starting-point a Bentley Bentayga, but it is mandatory to undergo the Mulliner filter. Together with Linley British design house, Mulliner division from Bentley developed a picnic „basket” for Bentayga owners. In brief, we speak about a picnic „basket” that includes the most exquisite luxury products when it comes to tableware, cutlery and glass items. The picnic set includes three detachable pieces with a dedicated installation and sliding system reaching the edge of the trunk’s loading surface, for easy access to its content. The tableware is supplied by French producer Haviland, silverware signed by Robbe & Berking Alta, a set of cheese knives from Linley. Crystal champaign glasses bear David Redman’s signature. And, the set includes also a picnic cashmere blanket.

Constantin Ciobanu

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