The Darche Dusk to Dawn is a popular choice for outdoor lovers looking for high-quality swag. But is it right for you?
In this Darche Dusk to Dawn swag review, we will look at the pros and cons of this product in close detail. We will also talk about the different key factors that make this swag what it is.
At the end of this article, you will have the confidence to decide whether this is the right option for you.
| Darche Dusk To Dawn 900 | Darche Dusk To Dawn 1100 | Darche Dusk To Dawn 1400 |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  | |
215(L) x 90(W) cm | 215(L) x 110(W) cm | 215(L) x 140(W) cm | |
80 cm | 80 cm | 80 cm | |
12.8 kg | 14.3 kg | 15 kg | |
95(L) x 43(W) x 43(H) cm | 115(L) x 43(W) x 43(H) cm | 145(L) x 43(W) x 43(H) cm | |
420GSM Ripstop Poly/Cotton Canvas | 420GSM Ripstop Poly/Cotton Canvas | 420GSM Ripstop Poly/Cotton Canvas | |
2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
Pros & Cons
Size
Most people have the idea that swags are cramped little shelters, but that’s not the case with the Darche Dusk to Dawn. The huge sleeping area and its dome-shaped structure make it feel very spacious.
Darche offers the Dusk to Dawn in three standard sizes (900/1100/1400). The 900 is 0.9m wide which offers plenty of room for a single person.
For those with wider shoulders, 1100 will give you 1.1m of width for changing positions or squeezing your gear in with you in the swag.
1400 is enough for a couple who aren’t too picky about space.
All sizes are 2.15m long which is enough for most people to fully extend.
At 80cm head height, the Dusk to Dawn gives the feeling of roominess, however, not enough for most people to sit up.
Weatherproofing
With a thick 420GSM ripstop poly-cotton canvas and PVC floor, the Darche Dusk to Dawn is one of the most reliable swags for any type of weather.
Furthermore, the Dusk to Dawn has two massive entries on both sides lined with a full mesh inner layer to keep mosquitos out while increasing ventilation on hot days.
The storm flaps on the entries can be extended as an awning with the use of two optional poles or they can be rolled up giving you an uninterrupted view of the skies.
There are also zippered canvas inner layer windows on both ends, giving you the ability to increase the ventilation without exposing yourself to rain.
There are no complaints about water leakage whatsoever. The Darche Dusk to Dawn is one of the best on the market when it comes to reliability in poor weather.
Bedding
The Dusk to Dawn comes with a 70mm mattress which is more than what some brands offer.
Experienced campers seem to be fine with the comfort of a 70mm mattress and a sleeping bag.
For those who want a bit of extra comfort while sleeping, you can always add an extra swag mattress.
Alternatively, you can place your swag on top of a swag stretcher for extra comfort and ventilation.
Setup
The Dusk to Dawn has two support poles and one ridge pole which is very easy to set up.
After you’ve taken the swag out of the bag and rolled it out, connect the support poles and insert them into the sleeves of the swag. The support poles are already slightly bent so you won’t need to apply much effort into shaping them.
Next, use the ridge pole to spread the swag horizontally. There should be an attachment at both ends of the swag. Make sure to lock the ridge poles’ trigger lock to keep the length fixed.
Lastly, clip the c-clips of the swag to the ridge pole and support poles.
The whole process takes around 3 minutes if you’ve set it up before. For new campers, give yourself 5-10 on your first go.
The Dusk to Dawn comes with a large swag bag and there are compression straps attached to the swag. Packing them should be very quick and easy as well.
Known Issues & Warranty
Known Issues
In general, the Darche Dusk to Dawn is a very reliable swag. Probably one of the best in terms of quality and functionality.
One major flaw though… several customers have complained about the quality of the support poles. According to one customer, he has broken a total of 4 poles.
Luckily, it’s fairly straightforward and inexpensive to purchase spare sets of poles (I guess Darche is aware of this issue but is happy to keep selling the poles as they are?) or alternatively you can replace the poles with more durable ones since there are plenty of similar poles from other manufacturers.
Customers recommended replacing the Darche pole with a Jolly Swagman Pole or Crashpad Pole. Both are very easy to order.
If you are worried about this, consider buying extra support poles together with the swag to ensure that you can continue using the swag if the poles break.
Warranty
Darche offers a 2-year warranty and has a good reputation for honouring warranties.
All you have to do is fill out this form and show them at least one photo of the issue you’re complaining about and they will gladly replace or repair your unit.
Unfortunately the support poles, which is one of the major issues with the Darche Dusk to Dawn, aren’t covered in the warranty period. This is a real shame and shows that Darche are likely well aware of this issue with the support poles but haven’t been able to fix it yet.
Other than that, there are no other complaints about warranty claims.
Price
The Darche Dusk to Dawn offers a premium quality product at a mid-range cost.
Take into account that you would probably have to spend a bit extra to buy another set of support poles since there are several issues with the Darche poles.
Nevertheless, we believe that at this price point, this is a reasonable price to pay for a product with impressive quality and reliability like this one. Overall, it’s good bang for your buck.
Darche Dusk To Dawn Swag FAQ
Are the swag bags waterproof?
Yes. The swag bags are made with the same material as the swag canvas which makes them waterproof and tear-resistant as well.
Do they come with awning poles?
Unfortunately, they don’t come with awning poles. However, they are relatively inexpensive and easy to get.
Can you upgrade the mattress?
No. The 70mm mattress is included as a package deal. However, you can add another mattress separately.
Can you pack it up with the bedding inside?
Yes. You can pack the swag with the bedding and sleeping bag. However, large pillows probably won’t fit unless you can really squeeze them down.
Final Thoughts - Darche Dusk To Dawn Swag Review
The Darche Dusk to Dawn has a fantastic quality, simple yet functional design, and comes at a reasonable price.
There are no issues with leakage or tears making it a fantastic option for those who camp in poor weather.
The ability to roll up the two large storm flaps of the main entry points gives you an uninterrupted view of the skies, which is a big plus for those who like stargazing.
Overall, we highly recommend the Darche Dusk to Dawn for those who are looking for a reliable swag for their next trip.
Review Summary
Reviewer: Louis
Review Date: 2022-01-12
Reviewed Item: Darche Dusk To Dawn Swags
Author Rating: 4.5/5
Product Name: Darche Dusk To Dawn Swags
Price: AUD $334
Product Availability: Available in Stock
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