Let’s face it. The RV doors used by many RV manufacturers in the U.S. are just plain junk. Not only are they ill-equipped for heavy, day-to-day use, but they also provide little in the way of security. When buying a new RV or camper few really think about the door and that’s too bad. When you think about it, the door probably gets more use than any other part in an RV. This is why the quality of the door and the associated screen door is so important. When we were ordering our new Kingstar KRUZR 8 camper we were thrilled to see Tern Overland’s Wildlands door offered as an option. Nobody builds a better RV door than Tern Overland. Nobody. After taking delivery of the camper and using the Arctic Tern Wildlands Door for several months, we are even more impressed by it. What makes the door so good and why is it so popular? Tern Overland owner and CEO, Aimee Higgins, was kind enough to answer several questions.
The Wildlands door is unlike any other door in the industry. What inspired Tern Overland to design it?
Aimee Higgins: Thank you, Mike. It is by far our favorite door. We were looking to solve the issues of safety and air flow. The new door had to be strong enough to keep kids and dogs inside and wild critters outside while providing great ventilation.
How long did it take to design and develop the door?
Aimee Higgins: The door was in R&D and in collaboration with our manufacturer for about four years before it was ready for the overland industry. The door comes two colors: black and white and in three sizes: 1,822x622mm, 1,370x660mm, and 1,070x660mm.
The door is incredibly durable and strong. How is it built?
Aimee Higgins: The door frame is powder coated aluminum with heavy-duty stainless-steel latches. The single handle actuates all three latch points making it extra sturdy. It works the same whether you are locking the inner and outer door together or just the inner screen door, leaving the outer door open. The door lock shares the same lock set as our cargo doors and other accessories, so everything can be keyed to match. The window is made of acrylic not glass.
We love the security that the screen door provides. What makes it so strong?
Aimee Higgins: The Wildlands’ screen door features a stainless-steel powder coated #6 woven mesh with .040 wire. Woven not just stamped. This allows you to sleep in safety with the outer door open in hot weather. The door also features our fine mesh bug screen on the outside of the mesh. This prevents pets or little ones from damaging the bug screen. The bug screen is also easily replaced using standard screen tools.
There’s a rumor going around that your door is bear proof. Is that true?
Aimee Higgins: That would be an amazing door. Unfortunately, we don’t have test results to substantiate that claim. It is being used by overlanders in the Australian outback, South Africa and around the Western US and Canada. We can, however, say that the triple locks and the woven stainless-steel mesh would make it a challenge to break into.
The latching mechanism is unique and incredibly strong. Why did you decide to go with three latching mechanisms?
Aimee Higgins: While a two-point latching system is far more secure than just one—the three points of engagement seemed like the next step in door evolution. The latches work best when properly adjusted. The top and bottom latch areas have three directional ways to adjust the latch mechanisms. Small screws can be adjusted to ensure a smooth latch every time. As vehicles travel, the screws might loosen and need adjustment. Paying attention to how smoothly the door closes and latches is imperative.
How do you secure the door for travel?
Aimee Higgins: Making sure the door is operating smoothly; it should be easy to close the door (not slam) and turn the bottom of the handle up and to the right. This draws the locking studs down into the latches and ensures it is properly seated and secure. Locking the door with the key ensures it is fully locked up. This door is not intuitive to the US market and takes a moment to get used to.
We can attest to that. There is a learning curve on how to use the door, but it isn’t too bad. Do you offer any accessories for the door?
Aimee Higgins: While most people camp in three seasons, we had the manufacturer create an optional insulation kit that can be installed after installation. This allows some privacy and a small layer of insulation for winter camping. Not necessarily an accessory but just a reminder we have a full parts department that stocks parts for these doors and as well as all of our products.
What products are recommended for cleaning the Tern Overland Wildlands Door? What is the process?
Aimee Higgins: The maintenance of the Wildlands door is quick and simple. The whole door can be washed with a soft cloth and soapy water. The acrylic window panel is the same. Make sure that the dust is rinsed off before using either a soft cloth and soapy water or an ammonia-free window cleaner. The NOVUS cleaner set for acrylic windows is what we recommend and sell for all our windows, doors, and hatches. NOVUS Step 3 is an aggressive abrasive cream for deeper scratches. NOVUS Step 2 is for lighter scratches and NOVUS Step 1 is the finishing polish. The kit safely removes all pin-stripping or scratches on both the acrylic and painted surfaces. Our products are meant to be used!
How many companies currently offer your door as OEM? Can it be purchased privately for DIY builds?
Aimee Higgins: Tern Overland sells hundreds of Wildlands doors a year. We have about 15 commercial builders that use the doors in their builds, including Maverick Yachts who builds overland trailers in South Africa, and Kingstar Campers. Yes, our doors are available for DIY builders on our website or by contacting us directly.
Does Tern Overland have any new products coming out soon?
Aimee Higgins: Last year we launched our flat acrylic windows. Our classic windows have been a staple in the industry and are loved. Our flat windows have an aesthetic that appeals to about as many people as the classics do. We also launched our largest window, the 550x1450mm in both classic and flat (22 inches high x 57 inches wide). Last year we also brought black blind and screens to the market. I find it interesting that many customers prefer the white blind and screens on the flat windows. Every year it seems the trends change. Lastly, we offer our CAM Lock Struts now, extending the opening of our windows to a full 90 degrees, I love these and will be swapping the classic detent struts in my camper with these new ones. All of these are found on our website or by contacting us. Our website is still struggling with real-time updates from our accounting system. If anyone finds an out-of-stock item, just reach out and we will check the stock for you. New items this year have been put on hold due to the tariff uncertainties.
Thanks, Aimee, for talking with us. Is there anything else you’d like to say before we close?
Aimee Higgins: Thank you, Mike, for your questions about our beloved Wildlands doors. It’s a unique style of door and appeal to those looking for something a little different than the standard RV door in both style and functionality. Happy Camping, everyone. It’s that time of year!! Safe travels.
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