subject: Pack It In With Hiking Tents [print this page] Backpacking may be one of the greatest pastimes ever devised. There is something magical about being outdoors with everything you need on your back. The hikes are hard, but fun, and you will sleep soundly on the trail. So what kind of hiking tents are you planning on sleeping in?
Whether you are new to the sport, or a seasoned adventurer, one thing will come to matter as much as any thing else. This thing is weight, and how to keep it out of your pack and off of your back. Serious hikers pare things down to the final ounce, and this includes their sleeping stuff.
Perhaps the lightest, and simplest, way to go is with the lowly tarp. This will work out fine if the weather cooperates, which will not be often. But if it does, and you are handy, you can fashion a great little cave of your own with one and some handy tie downs. These things can also weigh next to nothing.
But the problem with going that light will be when the weather acts up, and it will eventually, believe this, too. So you may want to consider a smaller shelter for yourself, or for a couple. These come fully enclosed, with zippers and lines and all the good things needed to keep it all buttoned up, and can be quite light on their own.
If you are out with the family or a group, of course the shelter size will increase. But the weight does not necessarily have to increase with it. Take the construction material, the pole and stakes and such, and dole them out evenly amongst your crew. With everyone carrying his or her fair share the load can stay comfortably light.
Good hiking tents can make the difference between a fantastic excursion and a miserable one, believe this. Poor weather has ruined more good times on the trail than any thing else combined. So be prepared for it, and pack in the solution with you.
