Buying a tent

[Mikenet7482]

I'm thinking of one that has a balence between strength and weight, and I'm thinking I'm wanting a 2 person tent, one that will fit in most medium/large backpacks. The backpack Im leaning towards will be perhaps 50 or 60 meters in size, I'm not positive yet. My price limit will be 200 dollars, I'm hoping for something cheaper but I want a nice tent. I'll be very dependant on this item, it will be my primary source for shelter. If it falls apart or tears in bad weather it could be an enourmous hassle or even cut my trip short. I'll be going far on my trip, a few hundered miles. Not a thru hike but I still want to make a good investment. You guys know more about this than me so id love to hear what's being used by the more experienced hikers.

[Rocket Jones]

Look at Tarptents (it's a brand name), Six Moon Designs, and others like that. Solid tents, sturdy, plenty of options to choose from, light and compact when packed away.

A lot of people like Big Agnes and REI tents.

Whatever you get, it's probably going to have to be seam-sealed. Some manufacturers do it, some let you do it yourself.

[Water Rat]

Like packs, you will find there is a lot of information that goes into choosing a tent, tarp-tent, etc.

I like my Big Agnes Flycreek UL 2. It is not a true "freestanding" tent because you have to use stakes to set some of the corners to get the full size out of the tent, but it works for me. Sets up fast and my pack fits inside with me. I love the vestibule because I can leave the stinky trailrunners outside without fear of them getting wet. This is a front entry tent (some are not fond of that feature), but I have never had an issue with rain getting in I go in and out of the tent.

Not within the $200 budget right this second, but there are lots of deals to be had out there. If you get this toward the end of the season, it will be a lot closer to your price range. https://www.bigagnes.com/Products/Detail/Tent/FlyCreekUL2

Not sure if you use trekking poles, so I will ask if you use them. If you do, that opens up a lot more options for you within the tarp (think lightweight and pretty spacious) world.

[Tuckahoe]

Your $200 budget for a 2 person tent may limit your options. It will atleast get you into some of the lesser weight larger company tents. But if you are able to up your tent budget a little bit, that can open you up to many more options In increasingly light weight tents with more cottage industry produced tents.

But for the under $200 range yo u can look at these --
Eureka Spitfire 2 -- http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=59167436&cp=4406646.4413993.4414966.12669395&categoryId=12864481

Kelty Gunnison 2 person -- http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=60291496&cp=4406646.4413993.4414966.12669395&categoryId=12864481

Marmot Carbide 2 -- http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=58208946&cp=4406646.4413993.4414966.12669395&categoryId=12864481

With these previous options though, you are looking at the 4 lbs + range

Six Moon Design Lunar Duo Outfitter -- https://www.sixmoondesigns.com/tents/outfitter.html?redirected=1

Over $200 options
Lightheart Gear Duo -- http://www.lightheartgear.com/index.php/tents/lightheart-duo-tents

Tarp Tent Double Moment -- http://www.tarptent.com/double-moment.html

Tarp Tent Double Rainbow -- http://www.tarptent.com/double-rainbow.html

Tarp Tent Squall 2 -- http://www.tarptent.com/squall2.html

Tarp Tent Stratospire 2 -- http://www.tarptent.com/stratospire2.html

[Water Rat]

One that is closer to your current price range is the LL Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent at $230.00. While not as lightweight as some of the options out there, it is a solid tent and does come with a satisfaction guarantee. If you do not like it, or have any issues with the tent, you can return it for a full refund. It has a vestibule, is freestanding, and it has a side entry.

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/80579?feat=506854-GN2&page=microlight-fs-2-person-tent&attrValue_0=Yellow%20Citron&productId=1337511

[Venchka]

One that is closer to your current price range is the LL Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent at $230.00. While not as lightweight as some of the options out there, it is a solid tent and does come with a satisfaction guarantee. If you do not like it, or have any issues with the tent, you can return it for a full refund. It has a vestibule, is freestanding, and it has a side entry.

http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/80579?feat=506854-GN2&page=microlight-fs-2-person-tent&attrValue_0=Yellow%20Citron&productId=1337511

If you join LL Bean's email list you will get sale notices, 10% off coupons, $10 gift cards for spending $50, etc. Also, LL Bean has the best guarantee in the business: 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Period. Buy it & hate: get your money back. Buy it and weather blows it up, get a new one or your money back. Applies to everything LL Been sells.

Wayne

[Venchka]

ps: I forgot to add: Always free shipping from LL Bean.

Wayne

[Venchka]

Here is a link to a comprehensive gear list that Bruce “Buck” Nelson used on a long trip across Alaska. I reckon any item that held up to that kind of trip must be pretty decent. Bruce used a TarpTent Squall.

http://bucktrack.com/Alaska_Backpacking_Gear_List_Review.html

The Squall 2 is an updated version. http://www.tarptent.com/squall2.html

Wayne

[Water Rat]

If you join LL Bean's email list you will get sale notices, 10% off coupons, $10 gift cards for spending $50, etc. Also, LL Bean has the best guarantee in the business: 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Period. Buy it & hate: get your money back. Buy it and weather blows it up, get a new one or your money back. Applies to everything LL Been sells.

Wayne

Absolutely! Since the OP sounds like he is just getting his feet wet with backpacking, purchasing a tent from LL Bean might be the way to go. That way, he is not out anything (except a few days waiting for the tent) while he is feeling his way through the gear buying process. Kind a of no-loss way to go and the gear would not be collecting dust in a closet. For the record, LL Bean has a few decent tents to choose from...just keep an eye on the weights (as with any tent for backpacking!).

The upshot of a freestanding tent is that it requires no trekking poles to set it up and they are pretty straightforward and simple for starting out. Absolutely not knocking Tarp Tents at all! Just do not know if the OP has trekking poles, and getting things "just right" with a Tarp Tent might be a bit more than someone getting their feet wet might want to deal with.

[Mikenet7482]

Lots of good tips, I have a few questions before I look at these links....

Can anyone explain the difference between a tarp-tent and other tents? (if this means what I think it does I am planning on bringing a tarp seperate)

Whats the difference between a free standing tent, and other types? Does free standing just mean you don't secure it with stakes in the ground?

I like the idea of securing the tent to the ground, wouldn't this make it less prone to blowing away in bad weather?

Also what are trekking poles used for?

Might sound like stupid questions, I haven't camped in a long time. I absolutely love hiking though so I have high hopes for this trip. In fact I just found out I live about 3 miles from the AT here in Madison County. I live very close to the Tennessee state line so the terrain here has been ideal for practice. When I've hiked around here I've walked 5 miles out and 5 miles back much of the time, so I'm used to the hiking part, the backpacking and camping part is what I'm learning now. I'm looking forward to this trip next year so I'm loading my mind with information early.

[Mikenet7482]

LL Bean sounds nice BTW, I recognize the company for having quality items. If I have to up my budget a little I can

[Rocket Jones]

Like I said above, Tarptent is a brand name.

Learn the difference between single-wall and double-wall tents and decide which you'd rather use. A tarp is a whole different thing, and setup takes a lot of practice and experience to be comfortable and dry in inclement weather.

I've often thought about bringing a separate small tarp, but always leave it at home because it's extra weight that is just redundant if you've got a tent.

Free standing means you don't need stakes in the ground. Handy for New England and places where you're required to set up on tent platforms. I'd still stake my tent down if I could.

Trekking poles are a whole new can o' worms. LOL Start another thread for that discussion. I always use them, a lot do, many don't.

[Water Rat]

To add to what Rocket Jones said... Free standing tents also come with tent poles (often connected into a one-piece tent pole structure these days) and allow for quick and easy setup. These tents do come with stakes - You can just choose whether or not to use them.

There is nothing wrong with getting back into backpacking/camping! :) Many of us have been there and the gear has come a long way. It can absolutely be overwhelming to look at all the equipment that is now available. The good news is that much of it has been made lighter in weight, for a much happier backpacking experience.

[golfjhm]

Lots of good tips, I have a few questions before I look at these links....

Can anyone explain the difference between a tarp-tent and other tents? (if this means what I think it does I am planning on bringing a tarp seperate)

Whats the difference between a free standing tent, and other types? Does free standing just mean you don't secure it with stakes in the ground?

I like the idea of securing the tent to the ground, wouldn't this make it less prone to blowing away in bad weather?

Also what are trekking poles used for?

Might sound like stupid questions, I haven't camped in a long time. I absolutely love hiking though so I have high hopes for this trip. In fact I just found out I live about 3 miles from the AT here in Madison County. I live very close to the Tennessee state line so the terrain here has been ideal for practice. When I've hiked around here I've walked 5 miles out and 5 miles back much of the time, so I'm used to the hiking part, the backpacking and camping part is what I'm learning now. I'm looking forward to this trip next year so I'm loading my mind with information early.

Free standing tents don't require staking out to keep their shape. Not usually a big deal unless you encounter frozen solid ground which can occur as far south as GA or AL. If you cant get stakes in the ground then you have to find rocks and log to use. Also if you want to change tent location due to an unnoticed widow maker you can just unsteak and move a free stander very easily.All from personal experience.

Trekking poles are like ski poles that help reduce stress on your joints while hiking. You can also use them to set up tarps and other non freestanding shelters....and fend off black bears. I find them invaluable.

[ChrisJackson]

Just realized you specified a 2 person tent. Removed my post regarding a deal on a 1 person tent. Good luck.

[Honuben]

Hello Mikenet. As a few others have recommended, i would look at the Tarptent products. I know you wanted a 2 person tent, but may i ask why? I would look at tarptent's Protrail tent as its close to your budget @$209, but its only a 1 person tent. I've use an older version called the contrail and it fits me fine (I am 6'3" 235). And as Venchka has linked, look at the bucktrack website, colter has a great site with links to gear info. As for a pack look at what he recommends or check out gossamer gear's Mariposa.

[Venchka]

Freestanding tent: A skeleton of poles, aluminum-carbon fiber-fiberglass (forget fiberglass), is used to suspend the body of the tent (floor & roof) and then a separate, waterproof covering (called the tent fly) is attached over the pole skeleton to keep rain out. NO freestanding tent is free staying. The slightest breeze will send the tent rolling and bouncing across the countryside. Been there. Watched a brand new tent shred itself on a cement street. The fly & vestibule coverings need to be guyed out and stacked tightly to hold the whole shelter in place, stop the fabric from flapping and making a racket.
Ultralight tents from TarpTent, Lightheart Gear, Six Moon Designs, zpacks & others, offer tents supported by trekking poles (adjustable hiking sticks) since many/most people use them anyway so a bit of weight is saved. These companies also sell conventional poles to support their tents. Trekking poles are not required. TarpTent also offer tents with poles that don't require trekking poles. I'm in the market for a tent to use for backpacking & bikepacking. I'm looking very closely at the TarpTent Rainbow & Moment.
One last piece of tent trivia. There are two ways of setting up a tent. Freestanding: The NON-waterproof body and poles go up first & then the waterproof outer fly goes over the poles and body.
TarpTent, Hilleberg, maybe others, tents are put up with the waterproof fly & body connected. The interior of the tent is always protected.
Now, it's late. You've been on the trail all day. It's raining. Which tent would you rather be setting up? And also taking down if it is raining?
Google can find a ton of videos explaining all of this. TarpTent.com has videos showing how to pitch each of their tents.
Study well.

Wayne


Sent from somewhere around here.

[Venchka]

The Section Hiker web site has reviews of a zillion items of backpacking gear. Also Outdoor Gear Lab.

Wayne


Sent from somewhere around here.

[Benjaminja77]

I'll sell you my Kelty Red Cloud 90L backpack for $150! It's a Medium/Large and I've had it less than a year--still in great condition. I live in Central VA though.

[Mikenet7482]

Okay, I'm getting a little closer to understanding all of this. Looks like I have a selection of Tarps, Tarp-Tents, or Tents. Tarps being the lightest option, then Tarp-Tents, Then Tents being the heaviest acording to this....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N2tU1Iszbo

Tarps for me are out of the question, it might be light but doesn't offer full protection, openings in the back and front can alow bugs, wind, and rain in. That sounds best for desert hiking.

I'm leaning towards either a Tarp-Tent or light tent, since I said I wanted to get something that's reasonable in weight, The mid option of a Tarp-Tent might be the way to go, I looked at the website provided here and like what I'm seeing, they don't look hard to setup. I've ruled out freestanding tents as well, I want something secured to the ground as well as possible. These Tarptents appear to be adjustable in height if it gets windy, it would be smart to make the tent low profile in the wind. I want to learn to use trekking poles, they seem to be multipurpose. Apart from my typos here I'm very smart and eager to learn, I've done complicated things such as building my own computers, and learning guitar, among other things. Once I learn somehting I'm good to go and I have almost a year to practice with my tent.

What I'm liking about regular tents is the comfort factor and extra options.

As far as waterproofing the seams, I had looked into Campdry before I posted on this website, and the ones I'm looking at are silicone based as recomended, Is this okay for seams? Also do I have to seal the seams everytime I set the tent up?

Honuben I was thinking a 2 person tent because I wanted to be able to fit my backpack inside the tent and have some wiggle room, or in case I bring somone along, I'm not settled on this however. It's not likely I'll go alone but whoever I go with might just have to get their own tent. As long as one person tents are large enough on the inside for my backpack then it should be okay. I like to sleep on my side a lot with my legs bent so this takes up space as well. A 2 person tent ws my initial thinking but I'm not stuck on that.

Benjaminja77 Thanks for the offer, i'm wanting to try the tent on before I but it though, and have a return policy, is that a 90 liter tent? If so that's pretty big.

Sorry for the switch up in what I'm wanting guys I'm feeling things out as I go, I'll still go for a two person tent if it's light and low profile, but would now like to hear more opinions on whether or not I should go with a 1 person, given what I've said in this post about wanting some extra space. Im currently looking at videos too, so I'm getting lots of ideas. :)

[Mikenet7482]

I wrote this before...


Benjaminja77 Thanks for the offer, i'm wanting to try the tent on before I but it though, and have a return policy, is that a 90 liter tent? If so that's pretty big.



Sorry about that I meant backpack obviously, I was tired when I posted that. I wish I could edit post, I tend to type fast and correct mistakes later. That sentence above is embarrasing for me lol. And by but I mean buy mean buy :P

[Mikenet7482]

I wrote this before...



Sorry about that I meant backpack obviously, I was tired when I posted that. I wish I could edit post, I tend to type fast and correct mistakes later. That sentence above is embarrasing for me lol. And by but I mean buy mean buy :P

Made a mistake in that one too, i need to reread my post before I submit them.

[Hoofit]

Don't rule out freestanding tents so fast!
They come with stakes, like any other tent and they have some big advantages....
You can lift them up, once you take out your gear, and shake out all the dirt/crap that accumulates in your tent .
You can move them around if you decide you want a better view from inside.
And staking a tent is often not necesssary when there is no wind, the weight of your gear is often enough to keep it in place even in a light wind.
IF you up your budget a tad, there are many very good , lightweight options out there, such as MSR and Agnes, that are freestanding and great tents.
Jus' sayin, check 'em out before you write them off.

[Traveler]

Agreed with Hoofit, free standing tents may fit your needs. I poked around for a while and settled on the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2, its a 2-person tent, weighs under 3 lbs, and is pretty much perfect for my use. It is, unfortunately, more than $200 ($399 retail pricing) that may prove to be your limiting factor. This tent sometimes goes on sale at REI or other outlets, if you pay attention to fall sales, you can get it under $250, which would be a good buy. Keep an eye on this board for members selling gear as well.

Another suggestion is to find an outfitter like EMS who rents tents. You may not find the model you are needing there, but you will find free standing or other types of tents you can rent for a night and see how you like them. From there you can start to make some intelligent eliminations to have a more focused search.

[sfdoc]

Check out Mountainsmith. Their Celestial is less than 5lbs, 35sq feet, and way less than $200. Good luck.

[Singto]

I would try real hard to avoid buying a tent that requires custom poles. If you plan on hiking alone, avoid designs requiring 2 trekking poles. Just my opinion on that subject. If you don't care about these viewpoints, look at the Alps Mountaineering Mystique line. Not expensive, not overly heavy and decent space. Consider their "Mystique 1.5". Of course the 6 Moon Designs Lunar Solo is all around tops in my book. Weight, space, cost. I've found the Tarptent brand to be lacking in floor space. Their "Notch", which many hikers like only has 15.2 Sq. Ft of netted floor space for $285. The Lunar Solo LE has 26 Sq. Ft at $180 but isn't for taller hikers. It takes homework. I spent weeks looking and many times thinking I had found the right tent. My comparison searches started to always return me back to the Lunar Solo, which is what I purchased.

[sfdoc]

RE: Mountainsmith tents; the Celestial is also known as the Morrison 2. Basically the same tent and share the same footprint. This is a very strong tent w/ plenty of height for sitting up.

[Just Tom]

I've ruled out freestanding tents as well, I want something secured to the ground as well as possible. [/COLOR]

Just to echo what a few other have said, because it is pretty important.

A freestanding tent doesn't require stakes, which is a great feature if you happen to be camping at a site with platforms. They come with stakes and if you use them I'd wager they would be more secure than a non-freestanding tent in the wind (all other things being equal) due to the strength the crossing poles will provide.

[Tipi Walter]

The backpack Im leaning towards will be perhaps 50 or 60 meters in size, I'm not positive yet. My price limit will be 200 dollars

Let's get back to the original post. If you're wanting a backpack in the 50 or 60 meters size as you say in your Straight Forward post above, there is only one option---Flextrek's Augmenteon with the purple vein sheathing system---


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlLNEzgXu0E

[Rocket Jones]

LOL Walter, I was wondering if that was going to come up.

[Venchka]

Just to echo what a few other have said, because it is pretty important.

A freestanding tent doesn't require stakes, which is a great feature if you happen to be camping at a site with platforms. They come with stakes and if you use them I'd wager they would be more secure than a non-freestanding tent in the wind (all other things being equal) due to the strength the crossing poles will provide.

Regardless of the methods used, tents need secure anchors to terra firma. Period. End of story.

Wayne

[Ashepabst]

the whole "freestanding" bit is irrelevant. pretty much all backpacking tents require some staking (or tying off to something). even if you're not staking the corners (which you most certainly should), most tents require the vestibule to be staked out. your fly ain't gonna be too waterproof if it's not pulled taut.

[rickb]

Free standing is nice on snow, under snow, on heavy (loose) duff, and on a hard-packed car campground pad, I think.

Nice, but not required.

If a corner stake or fly stake or any stake at all pulls out on a free standing tent, the impact is trivial. Not it always the case with a non freestanding tent. Of course, if the stakes are secure it is not an issue.

But in this case, it hardly matters.

[Walkintom]

Mikenet748, if you're planning on stowing your backpack and other gear in your tent with you then you'll probably be a lot more comfy with a 2 person tent. Cost is generally not that much higher than a 1 person. When I go solo I often carry our double rainbow, which is overkill for one person + gear, but the luxury of the extra space is nice and feeling like I have plenty of elbow room hasn't killed me yet.

It's a great tent, but may be out of your price range at $289. https://www.tarptent.com/cgi-bin/surfshop1/shop.cgi?ud=AgUAAQMOAQIFAxQXFx0XHQUCAQIJBAMIAggRFA AA&t=main.htm&storeid=1&sortby=itemid&cols=3&c=detail.htm&itemid=153&bcount=1&categories=00009&fromcat=00009

For a more budget friendly option, look at the Kelty Yellowstone 2. Heavier (5 lbs), but it's free-standing and well constructed. Comes in at $100.
https://www.kelty.com/product/yellowstone-2

[Rolex]

Just to reinforce something.
TarpTent is a brand name. It's a cottage manufacturer made by an enthusiast named Henry Shires. It's not a tarp just because of the name.
A one man will hold you and your pack usually. I have the MSR Hubba, the MSR Carbon reflex, and the Big Agnes Copper spur 1 which are all mainstream ultralight one man tents and me and my ULA CATALYST fit inside just fine.
For a two man I use a ALPS Montaineering Archer 2. Great but about 5 lbs.
The MSR Hubba can be accessorized with a gear shed which is like an overgrown vestibule which I do have also. It's gimmicky but great for bringing a dog. Useless for two people though as weight for the whole package is back to 5 lbs. and room for only one inside the inner bug mesh.

[Rolex]

Oh yeah. I bought everyone of those tents on this board in perfect shape within your price limits.

[Mikenet7482]

Thanks for the responses everyone, I made a purchase. I went with the LL Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent, I just made my purchase. It should be here Tuesday :) It was clse to my price range and the LL Bean return policy is something I really needed. I'll be practicing with the tent occasionally between now and next year so if something happens with it I don't have to be worried with being stuck with something I cant use. This tent is a little heavier but overall pretty light, it seems equipment has come down in weight over the years, this one has an alluminu frame which will help with weight. Initially I was thinking a Tarp-Tent, they're so light and adjustable in height, the price range was a little out of my budget for two person tents though, and the return policy wasn't as good.

I feel happy about this tent, I'll update everyone when I get it. I have a few other questions, will trekking poles serve me any purpose with this tent? Can it be used for a tent like this if one of the support beams fail? I liked the idea that a trekking pole could be used as a multipurpose item, like to walk with, or to fend off something like a bear. (I doubt I'll have a problem with a bear) but it's still a nice idea. Also, what might be good to go with my tent, other than a pad on the bottom to insulate me? Would it be smart to get something extra to secure it, and would it be a good idea to get a tarp in case it starts leaking or tears in the middle of my trip?

[Mikenet7482]

oops, I always repeat something or misspell something, I'm used to being able to edit post. :P Sorry about the redundancy in some of my post.

[HooKooDooKu]

I made a purchase. I went with the LL Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent
Hadn't see that tent before (but then I usually don't go looking to LL Bean for back country camping gear).
Looks pretty descent.
The design is VERY close to the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2, except the CS is about 1 pound lighter and $160 more.
The weight is on par with the Kelty Salida 2... a tent with a similar footprint but totally different design. I have owned a couple of Kelty tents and liked them. They are heavier than true light weights like the UL line at Big Agnes... but the weight of the Kelty has also come with durability.
Coming from LL Bean, I hope this tent has durability on-par with the Kelty tents. If so, I think you'll be happy.

[Ashepabst]

i sometimes bring an extra tarp on group trips, just to have a place to hang out if it's rainy at camp. but, bringing it just-in-case is overkill if you ask me.


if the tent leaks, send it back to LL Bean. keep some tenacious tape to your kit in case of tears in the field. this is pretty unlikely, though. the poles'll probably fail first.

[BirdBrain]

Tarp and tent is overkill. Trekking poles useless as multi use item on Llbean fs tents. Pad for sleeping bag only pad needed. I have the fs1... mainly because I live in Maine. I am happy with it. I think I could have done better. It was a quick purchase on my part made out of necessity.

The good thing about a true free standing tent is that it can be fully assembled in a shelter and then drifted to a spot away from the shelter. I have done this in the rain. It makes setup nice in the rain. The bad about setting a fs tent up in the rain is that you cannot set up the fly and then assemble the tent under the fly like with some other tents.

[Venchka]

Thanks for the responses everyone, I made a purchase. I went with the LL Bean Microlight FS 2-Person Tent, I just made my purchase. It should be here Tuesday :) It was clse to my price range and the LL Bean return policy is something I really needed. I'll be practicing with the tent occasionally between now and next year so if something happens with it I don't have to be worried with being stuck with something I cant use. This tent is a little heavier but overall pretty light, it seems equipment has come down in weight over the years, this one has an alluminu frame which will help with weight. Initially I was thinking a Tarp-Tent, they're so light and adjustable in height, the price range was a little out of my budget for two person tents though, and the return policy wasn't as good.

I feel happy about this tent, I'll update everyone when I get it. I have a few other questions, will trekking poles serve me any purpose with this tent? Can it be used for a tent like this if one of the support beams fail? I liked the idea that a trekking pole could be used as a multipurpose item, like to walk with, or to fend off something like a bear. (I doubt I'll have a problem with a bear) but it's still a nice idea. Also, what might be good to go with my tent, other than a pad on the bottom to insulate me? Would it be smart to get something extra to secure it, and would it be a good idea to get a tarp in case it starts leaking or tears in the middle of my trip?

You're welcome. Bean is having a 4th of July sale. Did you get the sale price? 10% off as I remmebr from the email I got in the last day or 2.
The should come with everything you need to set it up. One addition you may or may not need is an ultralight sheet of plastic to place between the ground and the tent floor. Polycryo window tint film or 2 mil painter's drop cloth or Tyvek are products most folks use. You may also need to seal the tent fly and floor seams. There are products on the market to do this depending on the coating on the fly.
Have fun!

Wayne

[Just Tom]

Actually I have the FS1 and if you have the footprint you can pitch it fly only and then assemble the body under cover. Well, the body will be under cover anyway.

Also, I don't recall the FS1 needing seam sealing.

[Venchka]

I did say, "may need to seal the seams. " I don't know that tent.

Wayne


Sent from somewhere around here.

[Mikenet7482]

You're welcome. Bean is having a 4th of July sale. Did you get the sale price? 10% off as I remmebr from the email I got in the last day or 2.
The should come with everything you need to set it up. One addition you may or may not need is an ultralight sheet of plastic to place between the ground and the tent floor. Polycryo window tint film or 2 mil painter's drop cloth or Tyvek are products most folks use. You may also need to seal the tent fly and floor seams. There are products on the market to do this depending on the coating on the fly.
Have fun!

Wayne

I tried to take advantage of the sale, the code I used said the sale was applied to the purchace but the price of it didn't go down. Not sure why but it's okay, I came into some extra money this month and still have some left to get a couple other things.

[Venchka]

I flip back and forth between a 1 or 2 person tent. What were your reasons for buying the 2 person tent?
Today I'm thinking 1 person. Tomorrow might be different.

Wayne


Sent from somewhere around here.

[CalebJ]

For what it's worth, Sierra Trading Post has a 40% coupon right now. Sfb7117, good tool midnight mdt. Free shipping over $150 from the iPhone or Android apps. Not sure what tents they have right now but worth a look.

[Traveler]

Theres nothing quite like the feeling of making a decision of this type and the anticipation of getting the goods to play with and start your process of learning how it works and applying your own modifications.

Good luck and have fun!

[Moosling]

I'm a freestanding guy, I use a Alps Mountaineering Zephyr 2 its plenty large enough for 1 could sleep 2 (This would cut down on the weight, I always share so we split the weight) ALPS claims its under 5 lbs, but with the footprint its right at 5 lbs. Its heavy I know but its really a solid tent, keeps the weather and bugs out and is super ez to set up, plus very affordable. Under $200.00

[CalebJ]

I've got a Zephyr 3 for camping with my wife. It's well built and incredibly affordable. IIRC, I paid less than $100 with a coupon. When I'm by myself I'll go ultralight, but the mileage changes dramatically with a group and I care a lot less about a few extra pounds.

[Mikenet7482]

Venchka I think I went with the 2 person tent because I saw the 1 and 2 person tents didn't have a huge difference in weight. The main reason is that I want room for my Backpack (which will be large) and not feel closed in with it in the tent. There's also a possibility someone might be in the tent with me, I doubt it though. I'll encouradge someone who goes with me to have a tent of their own. Mostly I made the decision because I want the extra room. Not sure if it's recomended to eat anything in the tent, but I don't see why not. Although most of what I do will be outside the tent, Id like a nice little spread out area for activities such as that, especially if it's raining. The one person tent might have been sufficiant for that kind of space, it just looked a little small to me.

[Mikenet7482]

Cant wait to get this tent, there seems to be a delay now in the processing though, LL Bean hasn't charged my account yet. As soon as I get it I'm going to pitch it, and maybe spend a night in it in my yard just to get a feel for it. :)

[Jake2c]

Hope it works out for you. Only thing I would add to this is, practice putting it up with the rain fly first so you can do it in the rain without soaking everything.

[BirdBrain]

Hope it works out for you. Only thing I would add to this is, practice putting it up with the rain fly first so you can do it in the rain without soaking everything.

Unless you have the footprint, setup of rain fly first will be difficult. Not saying it can't be done. Likely someone has as I learned earlier. Even with the footprint I am not sure how one would do it. There is no way to attach the crossbar to the fly and given that it goes over the center pole under tension it would be quite a trick to put it in last. Again, not saying it can't be done. It does have me scratching my head though.

[Mikenet7482]

I recieved the tent a couple days ago and couldn't wait to set it up, I pitched the tent in my apartment livingroom, everything seems to be intact and I'm happy with the weight, it's very light compared to tents I grew up with. Today I'm going to madison county again and will be able to pitch it in a yard, I'll get to use the stakes that came with it to tighten it up and make it a seem a little more roomy. I'm definately glad I went with the 2 person tent instead. When they say 2 person tent, they really mean it. The tent would fit two people of my size sleeping side by side on their backs with little wiggle room. I thik this tent is a perfect size for just me and my backpack, so I'm happy with it.

[Just Tom]

LL Bean makes good stuff, and that tent won an award from Backpacker magazine a couple of years ago.

[Mikenet7482]

I'm going to practice setting it up a lot, if possible with the rain fly first. I suppose I could do it by staking it into the ground first and guess what the footprint of the bottom is, then spread out the bottom as far as it will go under the fly, and stake further and further out until the dimentions of the botton match the dimentions of the fly? That's just a guess but having the rain fly up first would help if it's raining.

[Rocket Jones]

Practice is good. Just make sure you practice setting up when it's windy... and when it's rainy... and when it's cold... and when it's dark. The more familiar you are with your equipment in all conditions, the better off you'll be.

[Trance]

Check out Lightheart Tents. I have a Camo Lightheart SoLong Solo....

Just hiked the entire Tahoe Rim Trail with it. It held up awesome through rain, heat, wind, and sand.

[Mikenet7482]

I pitched my tent again, outside with the stakes this time, and I slept in it overnight. It rained later that night but the tent kept the water out for the most part, well I should say I didn't get wet. However tiny bubbles of water formed on the inside of the rain fly. I think that's normal, and think the tent did great. I love how the base of the tent comes up a few inches higher than the fly to prevent water from flowing in. It came with 4 long strings and I dont know what they're for, it's not mentioned in the direcitons.

I had a few questions on tent maintenance if that's okay....

On extended trips where weight is important how is everyone getting the stakes all the way down, I had to use a maul (one with a plastic exterior so I wouldn't damage the stakes) I assume nobody is bringing a hammer, so is it even neccesary to have the stakes all the way down?

I've heard campdry a lot....

http://www.amazon.com/Kiwi-Camp-Heavy-Water-Repellent/dp/B000HJ7CLY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1436631901&sr=8-1&keywords=campdry

It says it's silicone based and works on tents, do you guys recommend this?

It looks like the seams are sealed but is it smart to seal them again to keep water out?

How often does the tent need sealing, is it something that you only need to do once, or should I bring a small bottle of it so I can seal it if I notice any leaks?

Last one on sealing, is it smart or necessary to spray the whole tent with it to prevent bubbles? Campdry says it's breathable so air can get through, but I'm not so sure on that one.

____________________________________________

Other questions.....

How long can I leave the tent pitched? Will the poles for the frame bend over time if I keep it up for a few days?
I have the tent still set up in the yard, I read in the instructions that sunlight or moisture can damage it so I dryed it inside and out and put a sheet over it to block the sun.

Also, a shammy seems to be very effective at drying a tent, any thoughts on this, is there any reason I shouldn't bring one on my long trip next year?

One last one....

What has been the lifespan of tents all of you have had? Have yall been able to keep them in good condition for years?

[Feral Bill]

I pitched my tent again, outside with the stakes this time, and I slept in it overnight. It rained later that night but the tent kept the water out for the most part, well I should say I didn't get wet. However tiny bubbles of water formed on the inside of the rain fly. I think that's normal, and think the tent did great. I love how the base of the tent comes up a few inches higher than the fly to prevent water from flowing in. It came with 4 long strings and I dont know what they're for, it's not mentioned in the direcitons.

I had a few questions on tent maintenance if that's okay....

On extended trips where weight is important how is everyone getting the stakes all the way down, I had to use a maul (one with a plastic exterior so I wouldn't damage the stakes) I assume nobody is bringing a hammer, so is it even neccesary to have the stakes all the way down? If the pegs are holding firmly, you are okay.
I've heard campdry a lot....

http://www.amazon.com/Kiwi-Camp-Heavy-Water-Repellent/dp/B000HJ7CLY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1436631901&sr=8-1&keywords=campdry

It says it's silicone based and works on tents, do you guys recommend this? I've newer used such a thing, or wish I had

It looks like the seams are sealed but is it smart to seal them again to keep water out? Maybe in a few years

How often does the tent need sealing, is it something that you only need to do once, or should I bring a small bottle of it so I can seal it if I notice any leaks? Maybe in a few years

Last one on sealing, is it smart or necessary to spray the whole tent with it to prevent bubbles? Campdry says it's breathable so air can get through, but I'm not so sure on that one. The bubbles are condensation, it happens some times, depending on weather.

____________________________________________

Other questions.....

How long can I leave the tent pitched? Will the poles for the frame bend over time if I keep it up for a few days?
I have the tent still set up in the yard, I read in the instructions that sunlight or moisture can damage it so I dryed it inside and out and put a sheet over it to block the sun. Good idea. UV damage can sneak up on you. I dry mine inside the house.

Also, a shammy seems to be very effective at drying a tent, any thoughts on this, is there any reason I shouldn't bring one on my long trip next year? A popular multi purpose item. Maybe I should get one.

One last one....

What has been the lifespan of tents all of you have had? Have yall been able to keep them in good condition for years? I have some 20+ years old, others I've wrecked in a summer, having them up all the time. As a suggestion, take care of your zippers (dry lube, don't force them), they are a week point in some tents. Hope this is helpful. Many happy adventures to you.

[Just Tom]

Just a comment on the moisture on the fly, that is just normal condensation. That's why people use double wall tents, so that moisture is out there on the fly where you cannot bump into it. A small cloth to wipe it up is appropriate to help avoid putting it away wet. And always completely dry your tent before long term storage.