Re: [RBW] REI tent opinions requested

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:58:05 -0800

Another “rule” I find helpful for deciding on a specific tent, is what I like to call a “+1” rule… meaning, I find it best to select a 2-person tent if you want to be comfortable on solo outings; a 3-person tent if you routinely camp as a couple. Ultralight tents these days are so efficient with space, it helps to size-up if you’re someone who enjoys a bit more room.

Brian
Lexington KY

On Mar 1, 2026, at 11:17 AM, Guy Jett <[email protected]> wrote:


Over the decades of backpacking and bikepacking I have carried and slept in many tents.  REI, Sierra Designs, North Face, Mountain Hardware, bivy sacks, generic tarps, high end tarps, and others.  I don't think you can go wrong with the REI tent in the link.  They are well built, sturdy, light enough, and a fair price.  Your can find cheaper and not as well built or durable.  You can find lighter and with more features but at much higher prices.  And REI has an excellent  return policy.  (I've been a member since '71 and have returned a total of 2 items -- a pair of boots and a high-end tent (and the later after several years).)

As a newer camper DON'T go with tarps, bivys, or one person tents.  They will be either too small or way too fiddly to set up.  The two person should be just right.  If you're worried about rain get a small nylon tarp from a hardware store, or simply put a plastic bag over your saddle (and, maybe, a garbage bag over your handlebars).

You will also want to get some sort of sleeping pad for comfort.  You could start with a simple air mattress.  With experience you could graduate to either an inexpensive "closed cell" foam pad or a more expensive self-inflating insulated pad.

My personal favorite is a silicone-coated tarp for very small size, ultralight weight, and flexibility.  But I wouldn't recommend to anyone relatively new to camping as set-up and site selection are critical and take extensive experience.

Best of luck,
GAJett

On Sun, Mar 1, 2026 at 6:48 AM Roberta <[email protected]> wrote:
Camping is not my thing and if I go on overnight bike trips, I’m more likely to stay in a hotel. On Kayak trips, you camp where you pull the kayak out of the water.   So those bike days when I’m forced to sleep in a tent as well as the Kayak camping, I’m looking at tents. For biking, I know, shorter pole size and lighter tent is important.  Neither of these are important for Kayak camping.  I cannot imagine I’d do this more than a few times a year. 

I borrowed a tent for two trips last year. It stayed dry and I could sit up in it. Opinions?  Also, is it worth the additional weight to get two person tent for one person? Other tent recommendations, but around this price point?

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