Renowned English mountaineer and Everest-climber, Alan Hinkes, has recently put the Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 Basecamp through its paces during a trip to the Lake District.
Alan Hinkes, an esteemed English mountaineer born on April 23, 1954, holds the distinction of being the sole British climber to conquer all 14 of the world’s peaks exceeding 8,000 meters, a feat accomplished in 2005 with the scaling of Annapurna I in Nepal.
Known for his tenacity and skill, Hinkes has left a permanent mark on mountaineering history through his remarkable achievements, overcoming the challenges of high-altitude climbing while also contributing to mountaineering literature and public engagement.
Alan’s trip began with an evening drive to Borrowdale.
He said: “It was already dark, and the light bar and grille lights were fabulous.
Route YC: Campaign encourages tourists to take Yorkshire road trip
“It must have been 11.30 pm by the time I put the tent up, but it was so easy, literally taking seconds.
“It’s exciting and you just want to get in it. Other seasoned campers could not believe it, as it is so streamlined and neat on the top yet opens up into a decent-sized tent”.
During his trip to Borrowdale in Basecamp, Alan found himself pitched up inside the roof tent, sheltered from the heavy rain of a storm: “At about 1 pm the heavens opened, and I lay there listening to the rain on the tent and the D-Max metal roof. It was like a symphony but so cosy.”
“It evoked memories of listening to the graupel (frozen rain) while camping in the past.
“I would have a tent this size at base camp while climbing for weeks.
“But I could have done with this one as its memory foam mattress was so comfortable and I got a really good night’s sleep.
After spending time in the go-anywhere vehicle, Alan also shared his final thoughts, stating: “The hardtop is voluminous, and I was able to chuck in all of my gear.
“The drawer and cooking unit are also exceptionally tidy. It’s all quick to pack away too.”
“Even in bad weather, it feels solid and secure,” he said “It cruises really well at 70mph, and the ride is excellent, not bouncy at all like many pick-ups.
“The roads were really flooded but it makes you feel bomb-proof. It is really high, and the tyres are fantastic. I really enjoyed it. It’s a brilliant piece of kit.”
Related: Cornwall, Lake District and Scottish Highlands named UK’s ‘most relaxing’ destinations
The Isuzu D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 Basecamp claims to be “the ultimate adventure companion”.
Its Obsidian Grey finish and commanding black palette exude rugged elegance.
The ARB Esperance Hard Shell Roof Top Tent sits atop, accessed through the black aluminium hardtop canopy, and inside the load bed transforms into an organized haven with the ARB Outback Solutions modular roller drawer system.
The tough carpet finish ensures secure storage and integrates a fridge and pull-out kitchen unit, containing a three-burner gas stove and a collapsible 12-litre sink for maximum practicality when outdoors.
Completing the set, the vehicle features 17-inch black Arctic Trucks alloy wheels with 35-inch BFGoodrich LT315/70 R17 Mud-Terrain tyres, perfect for conquering unforgiving terrains.
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Van Life Matters newsletter or download the Van Life Matters App to stay up-to-date with the latest UK Van Life news, tips and advice.
