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For an extended hiking trip, one of the worst things you will want to deal with is a heavy tent. How can you have a great trip without all the work? Take the time to comparison shop for the right size tent for your specific need, based in part on what else you are bringing with you and the number of people in your group. Even when you have a lot of items to deal with, you can still get a light weight tent to fit the bill. Let’s consider some specifics here.
First, you’re going to need to think about your priorities. Is weight a major issue? If you’ll be walking long distances, it probably should be. Even a pound or two can make a big difference in the weight you’re going to be carrying. Remember that packed weight and trail weight are different if you see these listed on the package. Packed weight refers to the whole tent; while trail weight may omit the stakes, rain fly and other elements.
On the other hand, if you’re going to set up your tent as a home base, and hike out from there, simple pop-up tents and other heavier, but roomier and easier to set up types might be your best bet. It all depends on how you’re going to be camping. Will you bring the whole family or go it on your own?
The Kelty Crestone 2 is another option to think about. Here, there is room for up to two people who have hiking gear with them. There are two convenient entrances, vestibules and it also features aluminum poles to keep it light. And, it is at only four pounds and twelve ounces in weight.
Three and four season tents are popular choices when hiking. The more protection offered by your tent, the heavier it will be, but it can also be a real lifesaver in a bad storm or in cold weather. Pay attention to the amount of waterproofing your tent has, to tell you how much rain or snow it can withstand. This will usually be rated in PSI, or pounds per square inch.
Have you thought about the Pup tent, or A Frame? This type of tent gives you just a thin wall to the outdoors. There are only a few poles in the devise and it supported by the guy lines. The biggest problem with this type of tent is the way that it sags inward, which can problem in rainy situations. On the other hand, do not consider Cabin Camping tents since they way at least thirty-five pounds.
If you’re considering one of the extremely small hiking tents that conform to a human body, remember that you’ll need some space between your face and the ceiling of the tent to prevent condensation problems. These tents are very light and very portable, but for some people, they’re just too small. If you’re not sure, try one out. See if someone you know has a tent like the one you’re thinking about buying before you check out tents for sale.
In the summer you may want something that is very light weight and also offers a good amount of ventilation. Summer time tents do not have a lot of features but they can work well in some situations. The other option is the tunnel or hoop tent, which are very lightweight options. The only drawback here is that the tents often have only limited support, which can cause a problem. The Bivy sack is another option, especially if you are hiking and camping by yourself. They are too small for much else than you and the sleeping bag you are using. They only weigh a few pounds, which make them a good choice for lightweight.
As you take the time to consider the right lightweight tent to use, keep in mind that there are many brands and styles available. The weather, your budget and the number of people play a role in which you choose, as should the weight, of course.
