In the realm of outdoor adventures, the search for comfort and luxury often leads to innovative products that promise to bring the conveniences of home to the wilderness. The Joolca Hottub is one such product, aiming to provide a portable, collapsible hot tub experience that can be enjoyed in the most scenic and remote locations. This article explores the features, functionality, and practicality of the Joolca Hottub, offering a detailed review for potential users.
Origins and purpose
Founded in 2011, Joolca is an Australian company dedicated to enhancing the outdoor experience with home-like comforts. The Hottub exemplifies this mission, designed as a rugged and luxurious soaking solution for car campers, overlanders, RV enthusiasts, and backyard users. Its ability to be set up virtually anywhere promises a soothing, hot-water soak amidst breathtaking natural landscapes.
Specifications and setup
The Joolca Hottub is engineered for portability and ease of use. Weighing 33 lbs (15 kg), it is not suitable for backpacking but is perfect for vehicle-based adventures. When packed, it measures 30 x 17 x 11 inches (76 x 43 x 28 cm), fitting conveniently into a carry bag. The tub inflates to a size of 77 x 36 x 20 inches (196 x 91 x 51 cm), comfortably accommodating two people.
Inflation is quick, taking about two minutes with the included floor pump. However, filling the tub with water is a more time-consuming process. The Hottub pairs with Joolca’s Hottap, a portable LPG water heater with a 12-volt pump that draws and filters water from a natural source. This system is essential as campers are unlikely to carry the 300 to 350 liters of water required for a full soak. The fill-up process takes approximately two hours, after which users can enjoy water temperatures up to 113ºF (45ºC). For safety, the heater cuts off at 122ºF (50ºC).
Performance and versatility
While the absence of jets might be a drawback for some, the Hottub’s design prioritizes portability and durability over features like built-in jets. Joolca’s decision to omit these components avoids adding extra weight and the need for shore power, which would complicate the tub’s use in remote locations. The tub’s construction includes drop-stitch PVC sidewalls and a PVC-skinned closed-cell foam floor, ensuring it withstands the demands of outdoor use. Marine stitching and glue further enhance its durability, and a patch kit is included for repairs.
In hot weather, the Hottub can be used as a cold soak or ice bath, adding to its versatility. The included foam cover with childproof clips ensures safety, making it suitable for family use.
Practicality and comparisons
The Joolca Hottub stands out among portable hot tub solutions, offering a more grounded and practical option compared to alternatives like the HydroHammock and Nomad collapsible tub. Its integration with the Hottap system extends its functionality beyond a soaking tub, providing hot water for showers, dishwashing, and other tasks. The Hottap Nomad kit, priced at $549, includes essential components like a shower sprayer, river filter pump, and faucet attachment, all packed into a storage box that doubles as a sink basin.
Pricing and availability
The Joolca Hottub is available for purchase at $579. A package deal, which includes the Hottub, Hottap, and necessary connections (excluding sink and shower functions), is priced at $1,028, currently on sale for $938. This pricing reflects the tub’s unique features and versatility, positioning it as a premium option for those seeking comfort in the wilderness.
Conclusion
For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize comfort and luxury, the Joolca Hottub offers a unique solution. Its portability, ease of setup, and multifunctionality make it an attractive choice for car campers, overlanders, and RV users. While it may not be practical for every adventure due to its size and weight, the Hottub excels in providing a relaxing and enjoyable soaking experience in scenic locations. Coupled with the Hottap Nomad kit, it becomes a comprehensive solution for hot water needs in the great outdoors. For those willing to invest in a premium outdoor soaking experience, the Joolca Hottub is a worthy consideration.
Source: Joolca
