First impressions: Oztent CS-2 Double Swag review

I recently got my hands on the new Oztent CS-2 Double Swag, so I did what any self-respecting, sleep-deprived parent would do – I set it up in the bush at the back of my property and took a short break from my responsibilities. Just me, the mosquitoes, the swag, a sky full of stars and not a single “Muuum!” in earshot for a few hours until they found me.

It was only a single-night test in perfect weather, but first impressions? This isn’t your average roll-up swag, and that’s actually one of its best features.

What I like so far about the Oztent CS-2 Double Swag

• Lightweight but feels quality: You can tell it’s well made. The materials feel durable without being bulky, which is a win if you’re tight on weight.
• Folds, not rolls: This makes packing it away so much easier. The bag is actually easy to use. No more wrestling your swag into a sausage roll.
• Undercover storage: Even though it’s not a traditional swag design, the CS-2 cleverly creates a little dry area under the fly, perfect for boots or a bag. There’s also some pockets on the inside to store your phone and glasses and stuff at night.
• Blocks light like a champ: If you’re a light sleeper (or just don’t want to wake up with the sun), this thing’s a blackout bunker.
• Comfortable for two: There’s legit space for two people to sleep without doing the sardine shuffle.
• You can sit up inside: The peak height in the centre means you can actually get dressed without pulling a hammy. So unless you’re really tall, you should be able to sit in the centre of the swag without hitting your head on the roof.
• Roof-rack friendly shape: When packed, the Oztent CS-2 Double Swag is a tidy rectangle. This makes it easy to stash on roof racks or in a ute tray.
• Heavy-duty pegs included: These things aren’t the flimsy ones that bend on the first strike. Nice touch.

What could be better

• Ventilation could be more flexible: While there’s decent cross-flow from the head and foot ends, plus a flyscreen at the entrance, you can’t fully open up one side like you can with some other swags. In really hot weather with no breeze, this might be something to watch.
• An extra exit wouldn’t hurt: There’s only one entry and exit, so if you’re sharing, whoever pees the most will need to sleep near the door.

Worth mentioning

This is a first-impressions review only of the Oztent CS-2 Double Swag. I’ve used it for one night in ideal swag weather. No rain, no extreme temps. So I haven’t had a chance to test how it handles serious wind, rain, or steamy summer nights.

I’ll be doing a full review soon once I’ve had a chance to spend more nights in it, including in less-than-perfect conditions.

What it costs and what’s in the box

The Oztent CS-2 Double Swag will set you back $800. Here’s what you get in the box:

• 1 x CS-2 double swag
• 1 x CS-2 swag carry bag
• 1 x CS-2 swag 40mm double mattress
• 2 x 4mm orange reflective guy ropes (attached)
• 4 x anodised aluminium support poles
• 1 x anodised aluminium centre support pole
• 8 x steel pegs

Specs

Oztent CS-2 Double Swag	Details
Sleeps:	2 people comfortably.
Mattress:	Replaceable 40mm foam foldable mattress
Measurements set up:	230cm (W) x 233cm (D) x 125cm (H).
Measurements in bag:	Bag measured approx. 120cm (W) x 35cm (D) x 78cm (H) once I packed it back in the bag.
Weight:	7.8kg net (according to Oztent). I measured 8.8kg with everything in the bag.
Material:	Outer Fabric – CT-Tex™ light-diffusing fabric. Inner Tent – 190T breathable polyester. Floor – 150D polyester floor. Screens – 45g no-see-um-mesh. Poles – Anodised aluminium poles. Carry Bag – 600D polyester carry bag
Storage:	5 x internal storage pockets
Warranty:	2 years + 1 year with product registration
Other:	Decent size front vestibule with floor extension High-quality YKK zippers

Final thoughts (for now)

So far, I’m impressed. The Oztent CS-2 Double Swag is a clever alternative to traditional swag designs, perfect for those chasing an easy setup, comfort, and practicality without the bulk of a roll-up. If you’re in the market for a double swag that plays well with roof racks and offers a few clever features, this one’s worth a look.

Stay tuned for the full review. I’ll be putting it through its paces properly soon.

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