Which Type of Backpacking Shelter is Right for Me?
Unlike other creatures, human beings are not well equipped for overnight stays in the wilderness. That’s okay! There are loads of great options to help you avoid bugs, bad weather, and other external factors.
Flat Tarp or “Origami”
This type of tent is great for its light weight (about .06 lb on average). The pitch is adaptive and modular and it also has fewer failure points.
What might be challenging, however, is that setting up the Flat Tarp takes skill and is a slower process.The Shaped Tarp
The Shaped Tarp offers a modular bug net but remains a lighter option in comparison to a full tent.
Tarp-tent
This option starts getting a bit heavier but offers more bug protection with a bug net attached to the fly. It also has a single wall.The classic “Tent”
This double-wall, freestanding is the easiest to set up (almost idiot-proof) and sets up faster. On the downside, this structure is both heavier (4.8 lb on average) and has more failure points.
So which option is right for YOU on YOUR trip?
And while we say, “your trip” but in reality, you should be thinking about MOST of your trips. Ask yourself the following questions:
What is the common objective of most of my trips? Is it to go further and/or faster? Or is it to enjoy the experience and soak up every moment?
How confident do I feel setting up my shelter? If you are newer to backpacking, the flat tarp will likely be more challenging to set up.
What is the weather like (and bug conditions) where I often go backpacking? If the bugs are notorious in your area, the bug net will be a crucial component of your nighttime shelter. If it frequently rains, you’ll also likely want to avoid tarps.
There are more questions to consider, but the important thing to remember is that gear is only one part of the equation. Along with a gear list, the development of your “skill list” is essential for success.
Let us know if we can help you with your skill list for your future trips!