Looking for some updated opinions of what BW folks are using for their solo set-ups. Would prefer a solo tent with a vestibule and something that is lightweight. I don't want to break the bank, yet I'm willing to spend a little bit more on something nicer.

I own an MSR Hubba Hubba currently and have enjoyed that brand's quality. I know MSR makes a solo, but spending a little less money would be great!

Thanks for your recommendations!

I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take.

I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take.

It's hammock all the way for me when solo, too. I don't have anything fancy--just a setup I've cobbled together--but maybe someday I'll have more reason to upgrade.

Another Warbonnet Blackbird (XLC) user here, but that being said I end up switching between the tent and hammock on different trips. The hammock is great if you are staying out of a fire zone, but pretty useless if you end up stuck in one. Also on longer trips, I prefer having a tent to spread out my gear in, not to mention after about five days I get very tired of adjusting and setting up the tarp and hammock just right every night.

For tents I have both the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 1 and 2. Both are very light, easy to setup and mostly freestanding so you can use them on solid ground. I’d recommend going with the UL2 as it is only slightly heavier but much more roomy. I typically only use the UL1 for bike packing as it fits in my frame bag with its shorter poles.

I don't get crazy here...

Eureka Mountain Pass 2. Just got the updated version this year. My last one is still going after 20 years, but it's now for the kids to mess with.

I don't know your max budget or goal weight or anything, but lightweight and popular are TarpTent models. I have no personal experience with them, but there are plenty of reviews. A few people here have them.

There are a lot of options out there. You might find something you like at Sierra Designs at a lower price point.

Good luck with your search.

The REI Half Dome 2+ would be my solo tent recommendation, but may be heavier than you're thinking.

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?

I use a kelty Salida. It's not fancy but it's been sturdy and functional. One vestibule to save weight. Quick, easy setup. I think they've been updated. I have the 2P actually......only way 2 people can fit would be if they were 12 years old and on the same Synmat....but, it's got nice room for one adult. I haven't checked out their new 1P and compared specs. I didn't spend much on it and it's worked well.

+1 on Tarptent. Lots of designs to choose from. I personally have an older model Moment that I'm fond of. I've had mine since 2011 and been very pleased. Incredibly easy to set up ,,, just insert one hooped pole and put in two stakes ... done. Want it to be freestanding or handle a light snow load? Add the optional crossing pole. Pretty roomy for a light solo tent too. I've shared mine with a 65 pound Siberian and we both slept well.

Not sure exactly what your purchase criteria is, but hard to go wrong with one of Henry Shires' designs. Price is not too crazy and the designs and workmanship are terrific.

I also like Zpacks tents, but I think they are more of a backpacking tent where weight is of the upmost importance. I do use mine for paddling, but bought them for hiking. Spendy too and more finicky to pitch. Still I like them well enough to own both a Hexamid Solo (without mesh) and a Hexamid Solo Plus (with mesh).

Lots of other good tents out there. I'm sure you'll get lot of ideas here.

By the way, I've also got a few tents that I am less than thrilled with, but that's another topic!

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

I have both a Blackbird XLC and a Chameleon (use it for backpacking) and am a side sleeper. Believe it or not, side sleeping is pretty easy in a properly hung hammock.

If you are on your stomach, I think you would need a system with spreader bars.

SweetBerryWine: "Looking for some updated opinions of what BW folks are using for their solo set-ups. Would prefer a solo tent with a vestibule and something that is lightweight. I don't want to break the bank, yet I'm willing to spend a little bit more on something nicer.

I own an MSR Hubba Hubba currently and have enjoyed that brand's quality. I know MSR makes a solo, but spending a little less money would be great!

Thanks for your recommendations!

"

I buy most gear on Ebay or on this forum, used sources. Good gear good prices. I currently use 2 solo tents for different seasons. BSI Chinook solo (average packed weight 3 pounds 4 season shelter), and a BA FlyCreek Platinum 2 person (2 pound warmer weather use). The Chinook is the only new tent I have purchased in 20 years.

If your searching the FlyCreek is for sale, email me if interested.

butthead

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

Admittedly I haven't tried this model yet - but Warbonnet makes a 'bridge' hammock called the 'ridge-runner' which is very popular with side/stomach sleepers. Check out the website for more info.

and if you do go this route - let us know how it worked...it's the setup I'm considering for our 2019 trip!

I have the ALPS Lynx 1P tent. I've reduced the weight to about 2 1/2 lbs with graphite poles. It's lightweight, a bit skinny but I have plenty of room to get my bag, pad and clothing sacks inside to snug in for the night. It's a good freestanding tent that's held up to a lot, takes little time to pitch just about anywhere and keeps out the elements including the bugs. It allows me time to save up for an ultralight tent (<2lbs)!

I lucked out and scored a MSR Elixor2 from the Bargain Cave at Cabelas for about $100. 2 Vestibules and just under 5lbs which might not be what you consider lightweight for solo. But for that price and the high quality of the tent it's been good to me. My dog and I sleep well on my solo trips.

If you have a Cabelas near you it might be worth a stop to see if you can find a nice surprise.

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

I too cant sleep very well or long on my back, and have not had a problem being more or less on my side in the hammock. Rolling from one side to another def isnt as easy while hanging though.

The Eureka Midori 2 can be found for about $120.00 and has an integrated vestibule. It is relatively light at 4 and a half pounds, and will sleep one adult comfortably.

I have a tarp tent and consider it an excellent true solo tent. It is however, not freestanding which I consider important for any canoe tripping tent. I used my trekking poles which I could adjust to perfection on backpacking trips.

I have always been an MSR man. The Hubba is a good true solo option although I personally opt for a bit more space on canoe trips and use the Hubba-hubba.

Tarp tent Bowfin1. It's semi free standing and very light weight. Fly and tent are attached so it's extremely easy to put up. I'm talking a few minutes.

Hilleberg Akto, if you can afford it. Awesome tent.

I like the Kelty Brush Creek 2 for solo trips. It is similar to the Kelty Salida 2 with 1 door and 1 vestibule but has a roof vent and is a subdued two tone green. It is not on the Kelty website but is available at Bass Pro Shop. The Eureka Suma 2 would be a good choice if use don't mind bright colors.

minnmike: "Hilleberg Akto, if you can afford it. Awesome tent. "

I only just saw this now, but I'm not the one who resurrected the thread :-P I highly recommend the Hilleberg Enan. It's basically a "3 season" version of the Akto but their 3 season is a legit April to December Minnesota tent. It's lighter but more expensive than the Akto. Either way, awesome tents and not *that* much more than the usual suspects in the US market.

BA Copper Spur UL 2 is my choice

Resurrecting an old thread....

Wondering what's the latest/greatest etc.???

I'm definitely a Hilleberg fan but, cost is an important consideration. Weight is a primary factor but, would be nice to have a 'little' extra room (tiny vestibule) etc.

I really like my Tarptent Moment for solo trips.

For a new solo look at a Durston X-mid or one of the TarpTent models TB.

Was in Quetico May 21-27. Used a Tarptent Aeon Li. Worked like a champ and only 19 oz.

"The Vargo No-Fly 2P tent with a trail weight of 2 lbs 10 ozs and positive reviews for quick/easy setup and spacious interior may meet your requirements."

This is a good looking tent. I do mostly hammock these days but would love to have one of the free standing dyneema tents.

boonie: "For a new solo look at a Durston X-mid or one of the TarpTent models TB. "

Appreciate this , and all recommendations. Keep 'em coming! :)

Boonie,
Do you have personal experience with thr Durston?

I used one last fall TB and was impressed. It was the X-mid 1 model with solid interior vs. the full mesh. The silpoly stays pretty dry and doesn't absorb much water or stretch, thus it remains taut. It also stayed dry inside. I used extra guylines and it was solid in some fairly strong winds. It's easy to setup - I used poles vs. trekking poles. It's also nice to be able setup as one unit. The interior could be a bit bigger for stuff inside, but there's lots of vestibule space. I don't think the X-Mid 2 is a lot heavier if you want more interior space.

I'm still using my tarptent double rainbow for solo trips. Going on 10 years and still loving it. I've mentioned it on here many times, but that tent has been through a lot and it's still going strong...

boonie: "I used one last fall TB and was impressed. It was the X-mid 1 model with solid interior vs. the full mesh. The silpoly stays pretty dry and doesn't absorb much water or stretch, thus it remains taut. It also stayed dry inside. I used extra guylines and it was solid in some fairly strong winds. It's easy to setup - I used poles vs. trekking poles. It's also nice to be able setup as one unit. The interior could be a bit bigger for stuff inside, but there's lots of vestibule space. I don't think the X-Mid 2 is a lot heavier if you want more interior space. "

I also just got a Durston X-Mid 1 though I have the mesh interior (since I am a hot, bug season camper). I LOVE it! So much vestibule space and a roomy feel to the interior. Much easier to get in and out of compared to my Tarptent Bowfin 1. I finally had the chance to test it in a rain storm and high winds last night...stayed nice and taut, no flapping, and everything stayed bone dry. I just used 4 corner stakes, 2 door stakes, and the 2 guylines it comes with, but I will start carrying a couple extras if I feel I am in a more exposed area.

I also like how easy it is to separate the interior from the exterior if the exterior is wet and how easy it is to just set up the exterior to dry. I don't generally carry a tarp on solo trips anymore and I would have no trouble doing all my packing under the exterior alone if it was pouring rain one morning. Super creative tent at a reasonable price if you stick to the poly. The door designs catch a good breeze when how and it is easy to batten down the hatches quickly at night after it cools off.

On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

The X-Mids all need trekking poles or a straight pole built for the purpose...Durston sells some excellent proprietary ones for those who don't want to carry trekking poles.

We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other...

sns: "

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

The X-Mids all need trekking poles or a straight pole built for the purpose...Durston sells some excellent proprietary ones for those who don't want to carry trekking poles.


We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other..."

Looking forward to this comparison!

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

A groundsheet may be used but is not necessary. I did not use one, but would consider depending on conditions.

You can use trekking poles, have poles purpose made, or buy some others. I just used some others I had which were a tad longer than recommended. Durston talks about options in one of his posts (you may have to search a little to find it).

For those looking for pretty darn light, kinda roomy, airy, vestibule, fast ez set up, and inexpensive - B.Agnes C Bar 2, 4LB packed up. $200 + 40 for ft print.

iCallitMaize: "

sns: "

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

The X-Mids all need trekking poles or a straight pole built for the purpose...Durston sells some excellent proprietary ones for those who don't want to carry trekking poles.



We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other..."

Looking forward to this comparison!"

I'll 2nd that!

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

I bought a set of poles from Durston. They are super lightweight and fit perfectly.

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

Bridge hammock. I use a Helsdon Hammock. I can sleep on my stomach or side. It comes with mosquito netting, rain fly and storage front and back. Helsdon Hammock

ockycamper: "

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

Bridge hammock. I use a Helsdon Hammock. I can sleep on my stomach or side. It comes with mosquito netting, rain fly and storage front and back. Helsdon Hammock "

The website says it weighs 2.9 Kg (6.4 lb). Is that correct?

Look at the Seek Outside tents.

sns: "

campnfish: "On the durstan mid, is trekking poles the only way to set this up? Do you use a ground sheet?"

The X-Mids all need trekking poles or a straight pole built for the purpose...Durston sells some excellent proprietary ones for those who don't want to carry trekking poles.


We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other..."

I just returned from an 8 day trip in Quetico where we were rained on steadily for 2 solid days. The double rainbow held up very well.

plander: "

ockycamper: "

mc2mens: "

ThreeRivers: "I have tried many tents over the years and finally moved to a Warbonnet blackbird hammock, I know they aren't for everyone, but staying off the hard BWCA ground is great. upfront cost with under quilt isn't easy and set up does take me longer but I never have slept better. Prob not what you wanted to hear but just my take."

Question for you who hammock - I cannot sleep on my back. I'm either on my side or my stomach when sleeping, usually on my stomach. How can you sleep in a hammock if you can't sleep on your back?"

Bridge hammock. I use a Helsdon Hammock. I can sleep on my stomach or side. It comes with mosquito netting, rain fly and storage front and back. Helsdon Hammock "

The website says it weighs 2.9 Kg (6.4 lb). Is that correct?
"

Yes it is heavy at 5 lbs. I have a hammock (Hennessy) that weigh less then 2 lbs including the mosquito net and the rain fly. However I always opt for the Helsdon. It is far more comfortable, goes up in literally less then one minute, and I can put my shoes and clothes in the storage areas front and back. Also gives me the option of using an insulated paid (has a double bottom) or a down quilt.

iCallitMaize: "

sns: "We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other..."

Looking forward to this comparison!"

While there are more aspects to compare, I did several timed setups and teardowns.

Working at a steady but not frenetic pace, the Double Rainbow went from stuff sack to set up in 3 minutes & 30 seconds.

Durston X-Mid 2 (with the Durston Z-Flick poles) was also 3:30. A tie!

Tear down on the Double Rainbow was slightly faster at 2:20, however that is the Silnylon version & it was re-stuffed into its stuffsack. The Durston X-Mid is the "Pro" version in DCF, and it gets folded and rolled. Teardown time was 2:30.

Which is to say, if the ones I was testing were both made of the same material, they would have likely tied on teardown time too.

I have only set these up a handful of times, so I imagine there's some time in-hand as I grow more proficient, and/or a thunderhead is bearing down on our camp, providing additional motivation. I'd think that in time I could get it down to under 3 minutes up and under 2 minutes down for either tent.

Set up times got the tents functional with 6 stakes. Both tents can take several additional tie-out points, and those would have involved more time.

Actually living in them for an extended trip is the next test.

sns: "

iCallitMaize: "

sns: "We are going to do a head-to-head comparison: TarpTent Double Rainbow vs Durston X-Mid 2. Son has one, I have the other..."

Looking forward to this comparison!"

While there are more aspects to compare, I did several timed setups and teardowns.


Working at a steady but not frenetic pace, the Double Rainbow went from stuff sack to set up in 3 minutes & 30 seconds.


Durston X-Mid 2 (with the Durston Z-Flick poles) was also 3:30. A tie!


Tear down on the Double Rainbow was slightly faster at 2:20, however that is the Silnylon version & it was re-stuffed into its stuffsack. The Durston X-Mid is the "Pro" version in DCF, and it gets folded and rolled. Teardown time was 2:30.


Which is to say, if the ones I was testing were both made of the same material, they would have likely tied on teardown time too.


I have only set these up a handful of times, so I imagine there's some time in-hand as I grow more proficient, and/or a thunderhead is bearing down on our camp, providing additional motivation. I'd think that in time I could get it down to under 3 minutes up and under 2 minutes down for either tent.


Set up times got the tents functional with 6 stakes. Both tents can take several additional tie-out points, and those would have involved more time.


Actually living in them for an extended trip is the next test."

Thank you for following up. Much appreciated.

I like my big agnes copper spur 2, ive paired it with a nice pad and a quality bag or quilt. I sleep great. I'm also a hammock camper when it allows. But some trails don't have tree to hang so you gotta make do.

Sigh. These young’uns don’t know how good things were back in the old days. ;-)

MSR Missing Link, 3.5 pounds. The poles came off a 1971 Sierra Designs Wilderness that finally succumbed to age a couple decades ago. It also works with trekking poles. I have a light backpacking tarp for service as a fly in truly heavy weather.

It’s going bear hunting in October, having dethroned my North Face VE-24 for that trip only because it weighs five pounds less.













MSR Missing Link reviews

Hard to beat the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2. Only 3.2 lbs, 40 inch head space with high vertical walls. Lots of vestibule space and excellent ventilation.

CCS Lean+. Space to weight ratio is great. I’ve spent many nights in one & would be hard pressed to improve upon it.