Sleeps: 4
Weight: 11.25kg
Dimensions: Sleeping area 240x210cm max height 150cm, External space 260x210cm max height 160cm
Pack size: 70x30x20
RRP: £185
Sleeps: 5
Weight: 13.7kg
Dimensions: Sleeping area 280x210cm max height 185cm. External space 315x260cm max height 195cm
Pack size: 70x32x28cm
RRP: £220Vango Icarus 600
Sleeps: 6
Weight: 16.8kg
Dimensions: Sleeping area 360x210cm max height 190cm. External space 390x250cm max height 200cm
Pack size: 71x36x28
RRP: £270
Review: The Vango Icarus is one of the best selling ranges of group tents on the market, and it's not hard to see why. For a reasonable price you get quality materials, plenty of space and a tent that is easy to put up and take down. As with all large tents, the care you take when erecting is the biggest determinant of how well it handles in high winds, but the tunnel design does appear to give the Vango Icarus more stability, albeit at the expense of headroom towards the edges of the tent. As is often the case with large Vango tents, the 500 model is substantially bigger than the 400 model for only a little extra cost. For around £20 more, you get six feet of height rather than five feet (being able to stand up straight is a huge bonus) and an extra 50cm of length to the external area, which makes accommodating a few camping chairs much easier. A move up to the 600 gives you 80cm of width throughout for a further £25 or so. On the downside, the max sleeping length on all the tents is 210cm (if used in the recommended orientation), which is a bit stingy for larger tents, particularly if a group of taller people are sharing the tent. Also, the Vango Icarus range does suffer more from condensation issues than some of the more expensive tents, but it's not really a big problem. In short, a great group tent at a reasonable price, but go for the 500 over the 400 if you can afford the extra.
Best bits: Good quality materials from a great manufacturer for a reasonable price, lighter weight than some group tents
Worst bits: The Icarus 400 is relatively small, internal length is 210cm throughout the range
Alternatives: The Vango Orchy range is a little more expensive, but has a more stable structure and more length on the 500 and 600 models.
Where to get them cheaper?: Icarus 400 - £129 here
, Icarus 500 - £150 here, Icarus 600 - £174 here
