Current status: Gimme Shelter

Anyone following Brad and my progress may recall the Trekker Bivy Tents that we had planned to use for our trip. They are pretty great tents, when you compare features to price, but I wanted something more...

For one, hauling my >6'1" body into that narrow bivy tent wasn't the easiest ordeal. In fact, when trying it one night I got caught up in the guy line and ripped part of the tent awning. I fixed it with some heavy fabric, but realized it wasn't going to suit me well. When Randy joined the mix, I gave him the bivy tent (which is still completely water-tight, although cosmetically blemmed) and ordered myself a new tent. I wanted to go with a TarpTent, as they are incredibly lightweight. However, I found a deal on a MSR Hubba for about 50% off, and went with it. I got it from Alssports.com, though I'm not sure if they have any more in stock. And, it arrived today.

The tent assembles as quickly as the bivy tent (aka: quick!). It is double walled, which reduces the issue of condensation. It does weigh about 14oz more than the bivy tent, but still comes in at just over 3lbs. One of the subtlest yet best perks is that I can actually sit up in the MSR tent. The tent is tall enough that if I sit up in my bed, my head doesn't rub against the tent--awesome!

For as much as I can review a tent in my living room, I give it a thumbs up. And, since I paid about half-off, I really can't complain. MSR also has some lighter and similar options worth checking out if you are interested in a backpacking tent.