Frequently Asked Questions

Breakdown Buddy is the world’s first rapid-deploy inflating shelter for road users. It is designed to keep you and your passengers safe, visible, and protected in the event of a breakdown.

Breakdown Buddy has been designed to fit up to four adults.

Yes, Breakdown Buddy will keep you sheltered from adverse weather conditions such as rain, wind and snow while you and your passengers wait for a recovery service.

External dimensions:
Maximum Height 204cm
Width 140cm
Depth 102cm

Internal dimensions:
Height 198cm
Width 115cm
Depth 77cm

When folded in its bag, Breakdown Buddy is around the size of a sports holdall (65cm x 30cm x 20cm), which will fit in most vehicle boot spaces with room to spare, but please check this before ordering.

Breakdown Buddy is designed to rapidly inflate using the included pump in the event of a breakdown. We recommend that you place it behind the crash barrier away from the hard shoulder using the special ground anchors. If the ground is too hard to use the ground anchors, our clever anchor ropes allow you to secure Breakdown buddy to trees, crash barriers or even the car door handles.

Breakdown Buddy will typically inflate fully in under two minutes.

It takes around 30 seconds for Breakdown Buddy to deflate using Vango’s proprietary one press deflation valve. Once it has deflated, you will need to place back into the holdall.

Yes, all models come with a pump that fits inside the bag.

Start by pitching it and removing loose dirt with a soft brush or hose. Then, use a mild, non-detergent soap or tent-specific wash and a soft sponge to scrub away stubborn dirt and stains. Thoroughly rinse the shelter, ensuring all soap is gone, and then allow it to air dry completely before storing it to prevent mould and mildew.

The outer fabric of Breakdown Buddy is 150D Oxford Polyester – an exceptionally strong yet packable fabric typically used for event shelters and tents. It can remain packed away for years, then give a waterproof strong barrier at the roadside, with 4000mm hydrostatic head waterproofing. It is fire retardant for safety and peace of mind, and fully taped seams prevent leaks, creating the most comfortable environment possible. The windows are made from clear PVC for visibility and safety. Breakdown Buddy also features 3M reflective panels for excellent visibility in emergency conditions. The LED lights are waterproof and powered by a USB rechargeable battery pack to ensure you stay as visible as possible.

Please enquire through info@breakdown-buddy.co.uk.

Breakdown Buddy was invented by British entrepreneur Gary Aldred and the design was brought to life by UK product design company Cornelius Creative. Read more about our story.