Finding a reliable, durable swag option that doesn’t break the bank is the goal for many campers. The XTM Double Swag positions itself as a strong contender, built for the rigours of the Aussie bush with a heavy-duty 400GSM canvas and a robust PVC floor. It’s designed to be the perfect companion for quick weekend getaways or for extended touring where simplicity is key.
The good
- Tough 400GSM ripstop canvas
- Lightweight for double at 14 kg
- Heavy-duty 450GSM PVC floor
- Generous internal size 140 cm W
- Fully ventilated mesh panels
The not-so-good
- Only 50 mm thick foam mattress
- Thinner 8 mm alloy poles used (compared to Mighty)
- Requires seasoning before use
However, every double swag comes with trade-offs, and with this one, it’s the 50 mm foam mattress. We rolled it out under the stars to see if this popular double swag delivers on comfort and durability where it matters most.
What You’re Getting
A double swag (215 cm L x 140 cm W) built with tough 400GSM ripstop canvas, a 450GSM PVC bucket floor, and a basic 50 mm foam mattress, ideal for touring and weekend trips.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | XTM |
| Model | Double Swag |
| Canvas Material | 400GSM Ripstop Polycotton |
| Floor Material | 450GSM Heavy Duty PVC |
| Mattress Thickness | 50 mm Foam |
| Poles | 8 mm Alloy |
| Weight (Approx.) | 14 kg |
| Dimensions (Open) | 215 cm L x 140 cm W x 83 cm H |
First impressions
Pulling the XTM Double Swag out of its bag, the first thing you notice is the quality of the canvas. The 400GSM fabric feels substantial and tough, it’s clearly built to take a beating on the trail. For a double, it’s also surprisingly manageable to carry at 14 kg. It uses an alloy pole set, which seems slender but keeps the overall weight down.
Setting it up for the first time was a straightforward, thanks to the simple two-pole design and the clip loops. Once standing, the 140 cm width and 83 cm height offer a good amount of internal space. The superfine insect mesh is a welcome feature, perfect for those humid nights. The only feature that could be better is the 50 mm foam mattress; it’s quite thin, which makes you want to consider changing or adding a Sleeping Pad for maximum comfort on longer camping trips.
Materials & Build Quality
The XTM Double Swag relies on proven materials to deliver durability. The main body is constructed from 400GSM ripstop polycotton canvas. This weight of canvas is excellent, it’s tough enough to resist snags and offers great wind and water protection, provided you season it before its first use. Below, the heavy-duty 450GSM PVC floor creates a bathtub-style base, which is crucial for keeping moisture from seeping up from wet ground, a non-negotiable feature!
The structural element is supported by lightweight 8 mm alloy poles. While 8 mm is on the thinner side compared to some competitor models (like the XTM Mighty), these poles contribute significantly to the swag’s manageable 14 kg weight. They’re adequate for holding up the canopy and are easy to thread through the pole sleeves. All in all, the material choices prioritise ruggedness where it counts (canvas and floor) while keeping the structure light and portable.
Ergonomics & Weight
At 14 kg, the XTM double swag hits a sweet spot for a double-sized canvas swag. It’s light enough to easily move from your 4WD Storage to the campsite without major effort, yet heavy enough to feel substantial and stable. The free-standing twin pole setup makes the ergonomics of deployment excellent; you can clip the poles into place quickly, and the swag is ready to use. This makes it perfect for touring where you might be setting up and packing down daily.
Internal comfort, however, revolves entirely around the 50 mm foam mattress. While it’s fine for a single night or a quick weekend, for anything longer, we really recommend another solution. The good news is that the internal dimensions are generous (140 cm wide), meaning you have plenty of space to either put a high-quality self-inflating Sleeping Pad on top of the existing mat or replace the factory foam entirely with a thicker, more comfortable alternative.
The internal utility pockets are positioned well for stashing phones or headlamps, a small but handy detail. Finally, the generous ventilation panels on the hood, foot, and top, all covered with superfine insect mesh, are essential for airflow on warm nights and drastically improve the internal climate control.
Performance & Features
The performance of the XTM double swag is primarily defined by its adaptability to various weather conditions. The 400GSM canvas, combined with the top spreader bar for tension, sheds wind and water effectively once it has been correctly seasoned. The heavy-duty PVC floor means you don’t worry about ground dampness when pitching on less-than-perfect terrain.
A standout feature is the full suite of ventilation options. Being able to roll back the canvas completely to sleep under the superfine insect mesh is a game-changer for summer camping, allowing you to enjoy the night sky while staying protected from mosquitos and midges. The 140 cm wide sleeping area is ample for two people and provides a roomy experience that is definitely superior to two single Swags.
The included carry bag and lightweight 8 mm alloy poles make the whole kit easy to pack and stow for minimal hassle on the road. The XTM double swag provides reliable, weatherproof shelter, making it a good reliable piece of Tent equipment for any adventurer.
Conclusion: XTM Double Swag
The XTM Double Swag is a fantastic choice for the adventurer seeking a spacious, durable, and highly cost-effective double swag. Its 400GSM canvas and 450GSM PVC floor promise longevity and excellent weather resistance. The lightweight 14 kg design and simple setup make it ideal for quick, no-fuss trips. While the 50 mm mattress requires you to think about adding a topper or replacing it for maximum comfort on extended tours, the overall size (140 cm W) and robust build quality make the XTM double swag a formidable Swag option. It provides great value for the level of durability and space offered.Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
The durability of the XTM double swag makes it the perfect match for other tough gear. Extend your covered living space by pairing it with a simple 4WD Awning setup. Since you’re spending your time outdoors, make sure you have reliable Camp Lighting to see inside your swag at night.
And if you’ve addressed the mattress issue, pair it with a good Sleeping Bag for ultimate comfort.
The XTM Double Swag delivered excellent value and durability, anchored by its 400GSM canvas and waterproof PVC floor.
The setup was simple and the 140 cm width provided sufficient space for two. While the 50 mm mattress was thin, the overall construction is reliable for tough outdoor use.
The XTM double swag is best for weekend warriors and budget-conscious touring couples who need a reliable, waterproof double shelter. It's ideal for those who don't mind adding a separate Sleeping Pad or mattress topper to customise the sleeping comfort, but who need a high-quality, tough canvas and floor.
Yes, the XTM double swag is worth the money. It offers the core features needed in a reliable double swag (tough canvas, durable floor, and generous dimensions) at a good price point (BCF Club Price). The one trade-off is the thinner mattress, but this is an easy, inexpensive fix with an added pad, making the overall package fantastic value.
