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Backcountry Basics: Shelter Selection

Tents can be one of the most expensive and important pieces of gear for backpacking. Choosing the right one can also make or break your next trip.  Tents come in all shapes, sizes, weights, and colors.  But keep in mind, tents are not the only option for shelter while backpacking. Tarps, bivy sacks, hammocks, and even sleeping out under the stars are all great ways to set up camp for the night.

Tents are by far the most common shelter option for backpacking because they offer protection from the elements, keep bugs out, and are familiar and easy to use. This means there are a lot of options to choose from. Choosing the right tent can seem overwhelming. Utilize our tips below to help narrow down your options.

 

Tip #1: Do you need a 3 season or a 4 season tent?

For most backpacking trips a quality 3 season tent will be more than enough to keep you protected from severe weather. 4 season tents are meant to be used in harsher and colder environments, typically mountaineering in high alpine areas where snow and high winds are more common. 4 season tents tend to be a bit overkill for most people, but definitely worth checking out if you’re doing winter camping or high altitude trips. 

 

Tip #2: Know the difference between double wall tents and single wall/tarp tents.

Double wall tents are the most common style of backpacking tents. The tent body and rain fly are two separate components. Double wall tents offer more ventilation and can be used without the rain fly on warmer, dry nights. With single wall tents, sometimes called tarp tents, the tent body provides waterproof protection. This can reduce weight and bulk, and can provide more protection than a simple tarp shelter. Single wall tents tend to have less ventilation and are often not free standing tents. 

 

Tip # 3: 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P … What size tent is right for you? 

These markings refer to how many people a tent is designed to accommodate. I always recommend checking the floor dimensions if you are a taller person or would like more room to move around. A 2P (2 person) tent will accommodate two people (with your gear stored in the vestibule), but it can be a tight fit. Be sure to test it out and make sure everyone fits before heading out. If you have a larger group consider taking a few 2P tents over one bigger tent for everyone. 

 

Tip #4: Know the difference between packaged weight vs. minimum trail weight.

Packaged weight is just that … everything that came with the tent. Minimum trail weight will only include necessary items i.e. tent body, rain fly, and poles. It does not include the tent stakes or footprint. To really minimize weight, many tents can be set up with just the rain fly and footprint.

 

Tip #5: Looking for versatility? Consider a tarp shelter.

Light, small, versatile, and inexpensive. Though they can be challenging to set up in certain environments, tarp shelters can be very versatile and a great way to cut weight and save some money for other gear. However, tarp camping can have its downsides. Without a floor, or complete coverage, they can leave you somewhat exposed in extreme weather. It is also difficult to keep insects out — unless you add a bug screen. If you go this route, be sure to try a few different setups before heading out.

 

Tip #6: Are you a minimalist? Consider a bivy sack. 

Bivy sacks are not known for their roominess or list of features, but they are super small to pack, light, and require little to no setup. Think of a bivy sack as a rain jacket for your sleeping bag All it does is keep you and your sleeping bag dry. This can be great for a minimalist backpacker, or someone who is sick and tired of setting up their tent every day. Bivies have been referred to as ‘suffer sacks’ and would not be ideal for someone with claustrophobia, but they are one of my favorite ways to camp. 

 

Tip #7: Don’t forget about hammocking! 

Hammocks can also be a great lightweight and packable option. Plus, they tend to be very comfortable for most people. The only real downsides to hammock camping can be colder temps and areas that lack trees. Colder temps can be mitigated with a sleeping pad underneath you in the hammock, an underquilt/top quilt, or a lower degree sleeping bag. I recommend bringing a tarp and/or bug net with you when hammocking. Getting caught out without either can make for a pretty miserable night.  

 

Meet the Author: Trystyn Molitor

Trystyn graduated from the University of Montana with degrees in Recreation Management, Resource Conservation, and Geographical Information Systems. A backpacker for over 20 years, he has hiked and explored some of the most remote places in the country. Trystyn also spent a number of years working for the United States Forest Service as a Wilderness Ranger.

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