When it comes to camping comfort, durability, and ease of setup, the RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent sets itself apart in an increasingly crowded market. As someone who has tested a wide variety of tents over the years, I can confidently say that this tent stands out not only because of its unique inflatable design, but also due to the thought RBM Outdoors put into its refreshed features.
During a spring break camping trip to Crystal Cove’s Moro Campgrounds, I had the perfect opportunity to put the Panda tent through its paces—and it didn’t disappoint. While I usually opt for a more backcountry-style campsite, this oceanside spot gave me the ideal location to try out the latest version of the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent.
From the moment we unrolled it to the time we packed it back up, this tent proved to be a strong contender in the category of luxury car camping tents. In this review, I’ll break down the tent’s size, construction, usability, standout features, and who it’s best for.
Table of Contents
- Size and Weight: What to Expect With the RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent
- Setup and Build Quality of the Tent
- RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Space and Comfort
- This Tent offers Incredible Ventilation and Tons of Windows
- You Get Four-Season Performance, Too
- The RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Offers Stove Compatibility and Heating Options
- Final Thoughts: Is the RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Worth It?
Size and Weight: What to Expect With the RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent
The RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent isn’t your average backpacking shelter. As I discuss in my video review above, with dimensions of approximately 13 feet in length, nearly 10 feet in width, and over 7 feet in height, it provides a substantial living space that feels more like a cabin than a tent. It’s designed for 2–6 people, though I’d say it’s most comfortable for two or three people—especially if you include a queen-size air mattress or additional gear inside as I did on a recent weekend camping trip with my son.
This tent does come with some heft. At 112 pounds, it’s definitely not something you’ll be lugging into the backcountry. But for car campers and overlanders looking for quick setup and maximum comfort, the weight is a fair trade-off. The heavy-duty materials and air-beam construction add to that weight, but they also offer peace of mind when the weather turns.
The floor and support columns are made from tough PVC, which not only adds durability but also keeps moisture out—especially helpful after a surprise rain shower like we experienced during testing. The flooring curves up along the sides, helping prevent leaks and ensuring your gear stays dry even when the ground gets soggy—just what you want from a four-season tent like this.
Setup and Build Quality of the Tent
Like other inflatable tents, the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent uses an air-beam system in place of traditional poles. The columns in this model are a bit thinner than some others I’ve tested, but they hold up well. Inflation is straightforward with the included manual pump, although I highly recommend bringing a secondary electric pump for convenience—and as a backup.
The included manual pump does the job, but it can take a bit of effort. In my case, I used a Gorilla tape adapter to make my electric pump fit, then topped it off with the manual pump. Having both options on hand saves time and makes the process smoother, especially when you’re trying to set up before nightfall.
RBM Outdoors clearly paid attention to quality here. The seams are tight, the zippers feel durable, and the structure becomes impressively solid once inflated. It doesn’t sway or sag like some other inflatable models. If you’re worried about wind or rain, rest assured—this tent can hold its own.
RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Space and Comfort
Inside the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent, the amount of usable space is a major win. During our trip, we comfortably fit a queen-size air mattress, with ample room left over for moving around, gear storage, and even standing fully upright. The 7-foot-plus height makes it feel open and livable, unlike some dome tents that can feel cramped.
As I said earlier, while RBM Outdoors markets this tent as a 2–6 person shelter, I’d argue that three people is the sweet spot—unless you plan to sleep sardine-style in sleeping bags. Two people with gear, a dog, and a mattress? That’s luxury camping.
You’ll find that the rectangular floor layout is easier to furnish than a circular or hexagonal design. You can bring in a small camping table, a couple of chairs, or extra storage bins without the space feeling cluttered. If your goal is to be comfortable and have a tent that feels more like a tiny home, this one’s worth serious consideration.
This Tent offers Incredible Ventilation and Tons of Windows
One of the best features of the latest RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent is the redesigned window system. There are a total of 10 windows, including one large front-facing window with a new zip-in plastic panel and screen combo that I really appreciate. It’s versatile and helps regulate temperature and airflow depending on the weather.
Throughout the tent, there are multiple ventilation options, including large ceiling windows that allow heat to rise and escape—making this tent more breathable than you’d expect. During our stay, the outside temperature was about 61°F, while it was a cozy 77°F inside the tent, thanks in part to the smart window placement and insulation.
All the windows are double-layered with plastic covers and mesh screens. You can zip in the plastic panels for wind or rain protection, or roll them up when you want maximum airflow. I was impressed with how much light and air this tent lets in, too—it truly enhances the overall camping experience.
You Get Four-Season Performance, Too
RBM Outdoors bills the Panda large inflatable tent as a four-season option, and in many ways, that’s accurate. It’s weather-resistant, well-constructed, and insulated enough to handle a variety of conditions. That said, there’s a caveat—it’s rated for use down to about 32°F. So while it works well in spring, summer, and fall, you’ll want to be prepared with the right gear if you’re planning a winter expedition.
We tested the tent in mild spring conditions and got a decent rain shower overnight. Even without using the rainfly, the tent remained bone dry, which speaks volumes about its construction. The rainfly is included, though, and adds another layer of protection if you know wet weather is in the forecast.
It’s worth noting that RBM Outdoors includes a wall panel that zips into the front to seal off the large screen area. This helps retain heat and keeps out drafts, making the Panda more effective in colder temps.
The RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Offers Stove Compatibility and Heating Options
If you want a cozy, off-grid camping experience, the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent includes a stove jack for use with a wood-burning stove. I’ve used RBM’s indoor wood stoves in other hot tents, and I highly recommend their medium-size model for this setup. The jack is well-placed, and the tent’s height gives you enough clearance to safely run a stove pipe.
Pairing the Panda with a stove adds serious winter camping potential—just make sure you’re still within that temperature range recommendation. Having a stove also means you can dry out wet gear and cook simple meals inside when the weather outside isn’t cooperating.
If you’re planning extended off-grid trips, this stove compatibility makes the Panda tent an even more appealing option. It adds versatility and makes it a strong contender for true four-season adventures, provided you stay within the tent’s rated limits.
I personally like to use my Planar Heaters 4kw portable diesel heater with this tent (and all my other tents, for that matter). Having a heater like this is so much more convenient than having a stove that needs constant attention to keep burning. Besides, with a wired remote, I can adjust the temperature of the heater to keep it comfortable inside the tent—which is nearly impossible to do with a wood-burning stove (at least for me—it’s always too cold or too hot!).
Final Thoughts: Is the RBM Outdoors Panda Large Inflatable Tent Worth It?
After spending a few days living in the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent, I walked away seriously impressed. This isn’t your average camping tent—it’s a thoughtfully designed, well-built, and highly functional shelter for campers who want more comfort and ease of use without sacrificing durability.
The pros? Tons of space, easy setup with an inflatable frame, stove compatibility, solid four-season performance, and excellent ventilation. The cons? It’s heavy at 112 pounds and not suited for backcountry hiking—but that’s not what it’s built for.
If you’re a car camper, overlander, or just someone who wants an elevated outdoor experience with minimal fuss, the RBM Outdoors Panda large inflatable tent is a top-tier choice. It’s a reliable, well-featured tent that checks nearly every box—and does it in style!
A quick heads-up: If you snag something through our affiliate links or check out our sponsored content, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. But fear not, we’re all about recommending stuff we’re truly stoked about!