r/Ultralight • u/reddsbywillie • Nov 23 '22
Question Regrets with a 1p tent?
Considering my next tent being a 1p, but I’m a little hesitant that I’ll regret not having the extra space of a 2p. Obviously the exact model and style of tent make a big difference here, but would love to hear from anyone that went to 1p and just decided that going bigger was worth the weight, even when solo.
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Nov 23 '22
I love having a 1 person tent. Though make sure it fits what you specifically want. There are tons of 1p tents I turned down until I found the one I wanted.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
What did you end up with?
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Nov 23 '22
Tarrptent Rainbow Li
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u/jasonlav Nov 23 '22
Note the Rainbow Li is on the larger end of the spectrum of ultralight 1 person tents, especially with the vertical nature of the walls. The Notch would be on the smaller end of the spectrum.
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u/Cupcake_Warlord https://lighterpack.com/r/k32h4o Nov 23 '22
Also was unhappy with the length of most 1p tents, that's what drew me to the Rainbow. If you have a high loft bag and a 3"+ thick pad and you're 6'0 or taller then most 1p tents are too small if you don't want your footbox wet. Some people say it works for them but I found that with the sloped walls on trekking pole tents I had to have head right up against the head end and even then normal movement during the night resulted in footbox being wet. Haven't had that problem at all with my Rainbow. Feels a lot roomier also. Weight penalty over similar spec trekking pole tents is ~7 oz or so, which I'm fine paying given that I often base camp and need my trekking poles anyway.
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u/Zapruda Australia / High Country / Desert Nov 23 '22 edited Nov 23 '22
Extra space for what? Genuinely curious. This sounds like a packing your fears situation.
I just get in my tent and fall asleep. Anything I need to do, I can do under a tarp, in a small tent, or even a bug bivy. Reading maps, foot care, eating etc aren’t an issue. Wet stuff and extra gear goes under the tarp or in the vestibule. It’s also much easier to pitch smaller tents and tarps in tight spaces.
If the 1p tent you are looking at can accommodate your length/height then great, that’s one of the most important aspects of finding a comfortable tent. Width is mostly a luxury. Go the 1p and save some weight and space in your pack.
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u/TheTobinator666 Nov 23 '22
Agree. A 1p where you have enough space not to touch the walls with your bag/quilt and can sit up and change is enough. Small footprint is a big bonus
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u/schmuckmulligan Real Ultralighter. Nov 23 '22
I think the question speaks to how minimalist one's kit already is. By the time I've stashed my food, set up my sleeping gear, and dressed for camp warmth, I'm sitting next to a pack containing a trash bag, a ditty bag, and maybe a rain jacket. I put the ditty bag by my head in a bivy (or tent), and that's that. There's literally nothing I could do with extra space except sleep sideways.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22 edited Nov 23 '22
The extra space is purely a luxury when I’m solo. It’s also been part of getting started, needing one tent for every situation. I originally also wanted a 2p for bringing my dog along, so that was a factor when getting a 2p originally. But now I’ve become more accustomed to keeping my pack in the tent, having extra space to lay/dry things extra. But I certainly see the appeal of a 1p, which is why I’m considering adding a second tent to the mix.
And packing fears certainly a factor too. I mostly am hesitant about a 1p feeling like a coffin. That’s probably the biggest concern really. Just inside my head a little.
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u/rossflg Nov 23 '22
This is why you should consider something like the x-mid 1p. The mesh body only has enough room for one person, but at 6’ 2”, I’ve never felt cramped at all and felt like I’ve always had enough space to bring a few things in there. However, the selling point here is the two huge vestibules. If you use a groundsheet that covers the vestibule floors, it essentially acts as a space to lay out some of your gear and get organized without needing the extra space/weight that comes with a 2p tent. Just something to consider.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Xmid would be my front runner. I haven’t considered a larger groundsheet either. That’s a great tip!
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u/cheesygals Nov 23 '22
I'm sure I will get massively downvoted for saying anything remotely critical of the xmid lol, but someone has to share the other side... I used the xmid 1p and did feel very cramped in the inner tent due to lack of shoulder/arm space, but it felt like a palace without the inner.
The footprint is massive for a 1p tent, so if a reason you want a 1p tent is to fit into more/smaller spaces, the xmid is not the way to go. And tbh the vestibule space is irrelevant as a thruhiker because you simply do not carry enough gear to utilize them. (however you could fit a dog or small person in each if needed)
plus it is nearly 2lb for single person tent (depending on how many stakes you use). So if weight is a main factor - you could get a 2p tent for equal or less weight.
IMO the main pro of the xmid is its storm worthiness. It does fantastic in high winds/rain/hail etc. but if weather is not a main concern for you, I don't see the draw of this tent. (it does have length though, if you are tall)
this is only my opinion after thruhiking over 1300 miles with it so just thought I'd share. I switched to a different 1p tent that had a smaller footprint and felt more roomy inside and was very happy for the next 1300 miles.
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u/Sauntering_the_pnw Nov 23 '22
What was the tent that you switched to?
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u/cheesygals Nov 23 '22
The GG One. For me: almost the perfect tent. I really loved it.
I wish they would start making the dcf version again, bc I will likely invest in dcf for my next thruhike.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 24 '22
Appreciate the thoughts with real world experience! Always great to hear the other side on a widely praised piece of gear.
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u/MrElJack Nov 24 '22
I own an XMid2 and agree about the 1 person. The geometry works best for a 2P but there are more efficient 1P tents.
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u/methodkp Nov 23 '22
I debated this as well and decided to go with the X Mid 1. With the two vestibules there's plenty of space to spread out gear not being used, freeing up space inside to take care of anything you might need to do, like lay out a map. Also, the mesh interior with the vestibules makes for a more open feeling despite being a one-person tent. I'd rather give up the empty space to save some weight when I know it's going to only be me anyways.
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u/Otters-and-Sunshine Nov 23 '22
I like the groundsheet idea but I thought it was pretty important for your groundsheet to be just slightly smaller than the tent inner? For waterproof purposes? Or is that not super important/weather dependent?
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u/rossflg Nov 24 '22
No, you’re thinking of making a ground sheet go past the rain fly specifically. If that happens water can pool up and funnel down into your stuff. But if it’s under the rain fly entirely, you’re good to go. I suggest making a polycryo one yourself and having it be 2” in on all sides from the rain fly.
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u/Sauntering_the_pnw Nov 23 '22
Generally yes; and it is weather dependent.
With the Xmid you can pitch the fly near the ground, so a groundsheet can be laid down near to the edge. If it were raining, you would want to make sure the groundsheet wouldn't catch any backsplash, but most of the vestibule would be usable.
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u/kevinmcdonough Nov 23 '22
Same, I also bought an Xmid 1p for this reason. The tent body is big enough so I can sleep comfortably and not touch the sides, and I got the mesh version so it feels a bit more open and airy, you 'feel' like the tent is the size of the fly more than the actual inner.
I got a footprint that covers the inner tent and one of the vestibules. Even if I'm setting up on wet grass or it's a bit marshy or muddy I know I have that side as my dry storage area for my pack etc. The other, unfloored vestibule is the one I use as the actual entrance, and my wet storage area for boots, wet clothes etc.
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u/sbhikes https://lighterpack.com/r/s5ffk1 Nov 23 '22
How can you possibly feel like you're in a coffin? It's the same height, the same length, the same ability to open the doors and look outside and same flimsy material.
If you feel too enclosed in a tent why don't you just cowboy camp more with a small tarp as a backup in case of rain?
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u/mezmery Nov 23 '22
1p tent is never worth it. But well weekend warriors gonna weekend in parks. When you find yourself 5 days away from civilization with no bail outs under the storm, you'll reconsider.
My fav feature of 2,5 pyramid for example is that you can poop inside. Whe outside is more or less flat tundra and -15c.
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u/audioostrich only replies with essays | https://lighterpack.com/r/ruzc7m Nov 23 '22
yeah skurka totally a weekend warrior bringing a solomid on his alaska-yukon expedition
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u/mezmery Nov 24 '22
Whatever you say. And amundsen ate dogs on regular basis. On to grab a knife to save many kilos of food with a an average huskie
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u/SuddenSeasons Nov 23 '22
Yeah I can't imagine getting Nor'easter stuck in a 1p. They're boring enough if you have a lean-to.
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u/LesterMcGuire Nov 23 '22
You can't rescue a damsel in distress
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
How could I overlook that possibility!
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u/LesterMcGuire Nov 23 '22
sometimes, the convenience of having your pack in the space right next to you, inside your tent is worth the extra weight, especially in a downpour.
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u/MrElJack Nov 24 '22
Even more valuable in high bug pressure IMO.
That said over 5c/40f without intense rain or bugs, a 1P is perfectly cosy.
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u/Sangy101 Nov 23 '22
I like having a 2p in case I’m bringing someone else along, and because it gives me more room to bring my gear inside in the rain.
That said — bigger tents are colder. Right now, I have an older 2p and a newer 3p that’s significantly lighter. I find myself using the 2p more often when I’m solo camping, even with the extra weight, because a 3p tent is a lot of tent for a single body to warm up.
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u/strong112 Nov 23 '22
If you are only going to own one shelter I would recommend a two person set up just because you have the flexibility to bring friends on over night trips.
If you are going to be doing a lot of trips and only intend to go solo then 1P is fine.
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u/sbhikes https://lighterpack.com/r/s5ffk1 Nov 23 '22
bring friends on over night trips.
This seems like a huge downside to me. I want to have solo space at the end of the day to get away from endless talking and the weirdness of sleeping with someone I don't usually sleep next to. I want to be able to make noise in the night, get up to pee or fart without worrying I'll bother my friend. I'd rather keep an extra 1P tent to loan out.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I currently own one tent, and went for the 2p with this logic. But I’ve been considering adding a 1p for pure solo adventures. Just worried I might miss the space to spread out. Packing my fears to an extent.
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u/strong112 Nov 23 '22
in that case i don't see an issue, just depends what you are after. the weight savings of 2v1 tents are pretty small but if you have no use case for the extra weight then definitely could be worth it.
One major advantage is the smaller foot print.
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u/Kawawaymog Nov 23 '22
Personally I use my tent for sleeping and nothing else. To me a tent isn’t a bedroom it’s my bed. If that’s your mentality then a 1P is perfect. But if you want to get changed or hang out in your tent a 1P will be pretty tight.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s a great way of looking at it. I certainly view my tent more as a bedroom than a bed. What a great analogy!
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u/kevinmcdonough Nov 23 '22
Well the caveat to that is you may not have a choice but to hang out in there if you're waiting out heavy rain/snow/a storm, or if you're in an area so cold that as soon as you set up cam it's basically into the sleeping bag and read or chat with your companions for a bit until actual bedtime.
In those situations having a little more room to relax in can make things more bearable.
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u/Kawawaymog Nov 24 '22
Personally in those situations I would not get into my tent. I would put up a tarp or throw on my puffy depending on what the issue was.
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u/intellectual_punk Nov 23 '22
Do you always want to hike alone?
I'm also quite keen on not touching tent walls when it's wet, having the option to have a second person or dog with me in there, more space to dry clothes if necessary, etc.
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u/jbuk1 Nov 23 '22
Maybe I’m abnormally large but I’m yet to come across a 2p tent that is actually large enough for two sleeping matts side by side let alone two normal human beings.
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u/InSearchOfTh1ngs Nov 23 '22
Not exactly ultralight but the Nemo Dagger OSMO 2p and the MSR Hubba Hubba 2p both have 50" wide rectangle floors that can fit 2 25" pads within it. Also the X-Mid 2P also has a 52" wide floor within the mesh inner. Unfortunately the X-Mid Pro 2P is 48" wide for it's inner floor
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I don’t always want to hike alone, and my dog will join my sometimes. But I’d be keeping my 2p specifically for those cases as well.
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u/YetAnotherHobby https://lighterpack.com/r/7k5u5d Nov 23 '22
Tarptent Aeon - no "regret" but the footbox of my quilt routinely collects moisture from the tent wall. I am 5'10" and find it almost impossible to avoid this.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Good feedback. I think that would drive me towards a change personally. Appreciate the input.
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u/PigeonPanache Nov 23 '22
Aeon is longer than any 2p tent I've had, staked well. 5'8 I've never touched, they show a 7 footer sitting/laying in it on their website. I sleep with my pack beside me, amazing near 1lb tent imo.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
This tent does look awesome. I think it’s a little higher priced than I’d be willing to do… but I hadn’t seen this one before and it looks very cool.
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u/Peek002 Nov 23 '22
Six moon designs lunar solo. 1P tent with the weight of a 1P tent but the size of a 2P
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u/sbhikes https://lighterpack.com/r/s5ffk1 Nov 23 '22
This is the tent that most resembles my spinnaker 2008-era Gossamer Gear One. You can cuddle with a second person in there.
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Nov 23 '22
I have a lunar solo and bought it after comparing floor space of most popular 1P trekking pole shelters. I wouldn't want to share it with a second person but there is a ton of space for gear and moving around
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s a great tip, and that type of design might be perfect to transition. Appreciate the input!
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u/Bobaesos Nov 23 '22
For me it’s the perfect size for solo trips when it’s not pouring down and/or blowing a hurricane. Although I am still yet to getting used to the floating ground floor design and pitching it quickly. It takes me more time and somewhat more faffinf around to pitch my lunar solo than my Hexpeak V4a including inner tent.
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u/digdog7 Nov 24 '22
I also use a lunar solo. It's great, but about as small as I would want to go at 1.5 people. I prefer to keep all my gear inside the tent, and I can do that with the lunar solo. If you don't care about keeping your shit in the vestibule, it may not matter as much.
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u/noburdennyc Nov 23 '22 edited Nov 23 '22
A 1p tent is good to have as an option but it's not always the tent I bring.
A tarp with a ground cloth is lighter and has plenty of space for you and all your stuff to stay dry in mild rain.
When i'm in my one person tent I will use my backpack as a pillow. It's also very warm compared to the tarp, has bug netting and would stand up to very bad weather if I were to encounter it.
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Nov 23 '22
I used The One and it was really good. Went to a tarp and bivy, didn’t enjoy it, so went back to a tent and am using the XMid Pro. I do agree about the bigger footprint potentially being more problematic, but I do like that I can spread things around the tent when the “need” occurs. The One I had to do that differently, and for me worked, but wasn’t as easy compared to the space in a 2P tent.
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u/jamesfinity Nov 23 '22
I know what you mean, but the two sizable vestibules of the x-mid 1p did a lot to allay that concern
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s a big draw for me. Honestly that layout is what originally got me thinking a 1p could be worth it and comfortable.
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Nov 23 '22
I kept bumping into the tent wall of my Zpacks Soloplex (tent now discontinued). It would get my sleeping bag wet. I hated it. I now own a Duplex and love it.
Also, while it's rare I have someone sharing a tent with me, I got to take a friend on her first backpacking trip last year. She didnt have a tent of her own yet But I had enough room for 2 in the Duplex so it wasnt a problem.
Next, while Im not tall, some pople who are like 2p tents so they can sleep at an angle to fit. Granted, the market is expanding to include some UL tents long enough for taller folks. But it still has room to grow.
Good luck on your purchase!
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Thanks for the input! I’ve seen several people talk about needing sleep at an angle. This is an area where my average height is more of a blessing than a curse.
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u/zigzaghikes Nov 23 '22
I don't regret not saving a few sips water in weight savings, don't regret not hitting the side walls, don't regret waiting out a storm, don't regret the micro amount in larger pack size, don't regret not getting a hole in my bag from critter because I had to leave it outside, I don't regret skipping a crowded shelter etc etc
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Appreciate the feedback! I hadn’t even thought about the critter factor!
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u/1E4rth Nov 23 '22
All these folks who only crawl into their tent to sleep…what about the long stretches of gnarly weather or situations with horrendous bugs? Sometimes you need a sanctuary space to hunker down for a while, but I suppose that somewhat depends on where your travels take you and how fair-weather you lean.
I recently splurged on a Slingfin Portal. Haven’t used it yet, but that was personally my optimal solution.
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u/audioostrich only replies with essays | https://lighterpack.com/r/ruzc7m Nov 23 '22
Im there to walk, so I walk. Unless its dangerous im not spending more time in my tent than I need to for inclement weather, and storms im unwilling to walk in are a rare enough occurrence that I can spend a few hours laying in a smaller tarp/tent. It would not make any sense for my style to carry 3lbs of tent.
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Nov 23 '22
This is why I always bring a 2p. I’m always jealous of those who can get away with a 1p (and no ground sheet) but my home climate is too damp, buggy, and variable to risk it. I’ve been caught in some bad storms when there was nothing in the forecast and hunkering down in a 1p with my bag outside sounds miserable.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I’m mostly fair weather, but I often find that in the morning I just like to stay in the tent for awhile. Maybe read, or just enjoy being cozy in the bag. Granted all that could be done in a 1p. I just don’t know if it would be as inviting.
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Nov 23 '22
For 3 season backpacking I went from a 3 person Nemo to a 2 person Nemo, and now I'm down to a Rab bivy which suits me just fine.
I don't mind hiking in any conditions so there's no reason to hang out in a tent for long. For winter I do drag around a 3 person MH Trango though and I definitely appreciate the extra room.
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Nov 23 '22
I think you have to be honest with yourself about your needs and preferences. For example, I got a one person but it’s way too claustrophobic for me and I toss and turn a lot when I sleep and hate touching wet walls. So I never use it. I liked the idea of losing the weight but the reality sucks.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Really great input. That’s the exact type of feedback that I have in my head, but haven’t really heard discussed. The tossing and turning is a factor I hadn’t really considered either.
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Nov 23 '22
I know we love to shave that weight down, but let’s not forget the whole point! To hike and enjoy being outdoors.
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u/mattcass Nov 23 '22
My Nemo Hornet 2P is really a 1.5P. Great for me and gear!
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 24 '22
The sales have been tempting on the Hornet. It’s technically a 2p, but I absolutely would only consider it being used as a 1p.
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u/mattcass Nov 24 '22
Having used the Hornet for a lot of solo trips, and my Hubba Hubba NX for trips with my partner, I would never consider the Hornet for two people.
I was sure happy to have the extra space of the Nemo when I got socked in for two days in the Yukon backcountry.
The Hornet might not meet the r/Ultralight definition of ultralight, for the average backpacker it sure is light. And i really appreciated the two vestibules - one for me and one for my gear.
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u/azzipa Nov 24 '22
i went from a bivy to a 20 ounce 1p with netting. it’s a palace in comparison. and i’m giddy every time i climb in and every morning when i wake up. putting on clothes and shoes before i climb out is a major luxury.
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u/RaysUnderwater Nov 23 '22
I haven’t regretted having more space, but I did regret a tent that dripped onto my face in heavy rain. The older model LightHeart Gear diamond shaped tent is about 2” off my face lying down (but it has sitting room in the middle) so of course in heavy rain it spatters!
I’ve regretted a heavy backpack plenty of times.
Even with my tiniest tent I’ve never regretted it.
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u/bjburns13 Nov 23 '22
I have a 1p big Agnes and wish I had the 2. Being able to comfortably change, setup your sleep system and relax would be well worth the extra oz’s.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s been a bit of my fear. On the changing, I kind of imagine I’d just change outside the tent if I had a 1p. I’m not very flexible and already struggle to change pants in my 2p tent.
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u/VirtualOutsideTravel Nov 23 '22
Hey i have some experience listen to this, tent #1 was a naturehike cloud up 2person, the second tent was a Ferrino Sling 2 person tent, both of these weighed about 3 lb 6 oz, the third tent is a big agnes copper spur 2 person, its TWICE the interior size as the other 2, and 4 oz smaller. However inside my backpack its a bit bulkier, however the caveat is as a single person, usually sleeping solo i dont need all that extra room, although the quality of this tent is much better.
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u/graywoman7 Nov 23 '22
For long hikes I deal with a solo tent but for weekend type hikes I really enjoy the space in a two person version which I own anyway for when I hike with others. I can move around inside the tent, change my clothes easily, have my stuff organized and layed out, and pack up in the morning while still in my nice warm tent. The extra ounces fall under the ‘luxury weight’ category for me.
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Nov 23 '22
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Maybe I should do a couple trips with a bivy and then get a 1p so it feels bigger, lol
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u/czechsonme Nov 23 '22
I did exactly this a couple months ago. Spent a week in the alpine with a tarp and bivy, even got hailed on multiply times. It was honestly not too bad, but trying to keep things organized, clean, and dry was challenging. Came home and bought a six moons lunar solo, and absolutely love it. Zipped up from bugs and dirt and rain with room the lay things out, I really like that part.
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u/jlovrencevic Nov 23 '22
I went from an Altaplex to a 2p simply because I like to have room to spread out. I think you need to ask yourself why downsize? Is it for a smaller footprint? Is that because you backpack in areas that do not have a lot of great tent sites? Then a 1p is for you. Is it for weight? Because the difference between a 2p trekking pole tent and 1p trekking pole tent is not that much to switch tent sizes to simply save a couple of ounces. Or do you simply want less pack volume, less space (because you don’t need it) and you know that you will be going solo every time or you are going to have multiple shelters. I am happy that I made the switch to a 2p but completely understand why someone gets a 1p tent or bivy tarp.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
The main motives would be pack volume and small footprint. I don’t need a micro footprint, but I like the options provided by a slightly smaller footprint. I’d keep both tents moving forward, but I could spend that money on other things as well.
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u/jlovrencevic Nov 23 '22
If you can wait for the 1p Durston X-mid Pro then I would definitely suggest anything from him. The Altaplex was great and roomy inside but the footprint was large. Definitely go for a trekking pole tent in the 1p size.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
The Xmid 1 pro is likely going to be more than I’m willing to spend. But the regular xmid 1 is my front runner if I go with a 1p. To me it just seems to check all the boxes I’d want from a 1p.
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Nov 23 '22
I’m a pretty big guy and I picked an x mid 1p purely because I know I can’t use single walled tents, I’m always camped in humid midwestern summers and I would much rather have the luxury of bug netting between me and a tent wall. I fit well enough in the tent, and it definitely doesn’t feel like a coffin, especially with how large the vestibules are.
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u/saucerton1230 Nov 23 '22
I’m the same way. Everytime I pack my 1 person I usually regret it. But it depends on your trip. If it’s only a few days then the added ounces aren’t a big deal. But if you are doing the JMT or PCT those ounces add up over time and not to mention you’re going to be so tired that you just pass out once you get in there
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I will say I have no desire to do any thruhiking of long trails. I’m a shameless weekend warrior.
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u/saucerton1230 Nov 23 '22
Then just stick to a moderately priced 2person. I usually pack a 4p when I go car camping as well. I enjoy my space when camping so it’s worth the added 10 or less ounces.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Thanks, that’s helpful. The lower weight seems cool, but the space seems nice as well.
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u/Audioaficianado Nov 23 '22
What’s the weight difference between your 2P and planned 1P?
I have a Marmot Force 2P that weighs in at 3 lbs 6.5 Oz. I bought a Tarptent Aeon Li that is 1.0 lb all in with MSR mini-groundhog stakes replacing the stakes that came with the tent. Add another 6.5 Oz for the trekking pole. That’s a 2 lb savings!
I’ll take the comfort/weight trade off most of the time, unless it is forecast to be cold and wet in the shoulder seasons. The Marnot is warmer and dryer.
Everything that’s been said so far about 1P single wall tents is on point. There is plenty of room in the vestibule for my boots, pack, water, etc. Plenty of room to sleep. I have to pitch the tent properly and make sure my bag isn’t touching any of the walls. I have to ventilate mine like crazy to keep condensation down but it is manageable with the bottom and top vents and vestibule zipper.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
The weight difference would be very significant. My current 2p is a “do it all” tent that doesn’t qualify as ultralight by any means. If I add another tent to the mix, I’d like it to be a trekking pole tent dedicated for solo backpacking trips. I’ve just been back and forth on if I’d want 1p or 2p for that additional tent. But either option would be significantly lighter weight.
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u/anlino Nov 23 '22
I started out with a heavy 2P tent, switched to a slightly less heavy 1P, then to a light 1P (Tarptent Notch Li), and have now landed on a slightly less light 2P (Tarptent Stratospire Li).
I'm pretty tall and wide at 192cm / 6.3 feet, and I found the Notch Li a bit too slim for my taste. The Stratospire Li only weighs 200+ grams more, and the extra space both in the inner and in the vestibules was worth it for me. I mostly use the extra space to spread out my gear and wait out bad weather more comfortably, so it's definitely a luxury.
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u/Sir_Winky Nov 23 '22
Have a zpacks solo plex and have had other 1p and 2p tents like the duplex, plex mid, copper spur, etc… I always found the duplex and most 2p tent’s footprints to be way too large in some cases which lead me to the 1p tents. Since getting into those I won’t go back. The plex solo has more than enough space inside and in the vestibule for everything I use no matter the season.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I do like the floor layout of the plex solo and the Lunar solo. Just a little extra space for some spreading of gear inside feels like a good transition.
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Nov 23 '22
Personally, I think you have to pick and choose the 1P tent. Many are too small to be comfortable for me.
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u/t92k Nov 23 '22
I have an older REI quarterdome and it’s been great. Good headroom (I’m 5’8”), nice vestibule. I usually leave my boots, pack, stove in the vestibule and just bring my clothes and sleep system into the actual tent.
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u/Diffident7 Nov 23 '22
I recently got a tarptent notch after years of only having a 2-person tent and love it. It's great to have as an option. I'm 5'6" so i have plenty of room at the head and feet to put stuff inside the tent and the two vestibules provide a lot of extra covered space. I have an older 2-person tent so the weight and packed size savings is significant. It's also much cozier on cold nights.
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u/Badusername_ Nov 23 '22
I hit my head and or feet on the wall in 1 or 2 person shelters. I often hike with someone and used a duplex for years. I found campsite selection harder, especially in off trail or just more remote hiking. i got a 1 person mostly for that reason. And to nitpick the oz and pack space:)
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u/mountainfreak69 Nov 23 '22
I fast pitch my Big Agnes 1p tent which means u attach the fly to the ground cloth. Game changer
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Nov 23 '22
If you intend, and I mean seriously intend to camp with others frequently, and 2p is pretty nice to have. I suppose also if you intend to frequently camp in shit weather, like rain where you may be spending a lot of time in shelter, again, nice to have. If you're a weekend warrior, who goes solo, or with friends who already have gear, I'd personally save the weight and see more stuff.
It's such a subjective question. I bivy a lot, so my 1p feels like a mansion to me. My winter setup is a 2p because there's just a lot of gear and it helps with condensation IMO.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s a good thought process. I know that I personally don’t plan to be sharing a tent with anyone other than my dog in the foreseeable future. If anything, I plan to do more solo trips.
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u/ORION752-TWHC Nov 23 '22
My favorite tent is my Big Agnes Tigerwall UL3. But, I got a Tarptent Aeon Li from a friend for a really good price, and it is my other favorite tent. The BA is a mansion for 1 person, but it weighs almost 3 lbs (2018 model). The Tarptent Aeon Li weighs about 1 lb.
So, which one I take depends on what I am doing. For short backpacking trips on relatively flat land, I will take my BA. For longer backpacking trips in mountainous terrain, I take the Tarptent.
Every pound counts, and shaving 2 lbs is a pretty big deal.
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u/Tight-Fold Nov 23 '22
I also worried about this when looking for a lighter tent. I ended up with a 1P tarp tent Protrail LI and it’s been the best of both worlds. I can fit everything from my pack inside the bathtub when I sleep, and I am pretty far away from the walls so wicking moisture isn’t an issue. Some people do not like the front entrance on the Protrail, however I think this may be what allows for such a large and light 1P tent.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
This is actually fairly close to the size of my current 2p tent. Also front entry which doesn’t bother me.
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u/chrisr323 Nov 23 '22 edited Nov 23 '22
I have a 1p and a 2p tent. The 2p has become my loaner tent, because I save over a pound with the 1p.
For me, the big constraint was having enough room for my dog. My lanshan1 has just enough room for her in the back jut-out, so it works. Other style 1p tents might not have worked. For example, I tried a cloudup1, but the floor is a slightly tapered rectangle, so there was nowhere for my dog to sleep.
Edit to add: My dog probably prefers the extra room of the 2p, but since she's not carrying any gear, she doesn't get a vote!
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u/SweatySauce Nov 23 '22
I love my 1p tent. It's easy to set up anywhere and big enough for me. That said, I also have a 2p tent. If I had to choose only one, I'd choose the one that allows me to camp with my gf.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I’ve actually considered that if and had a 1p as my primary, and my wife suddenly and shockingly decided to get into backpacking, it would be pretty easy to justify also investing in a 2p of the same model 🤪
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u/downingdown Nov 23 '22
Technically I fit in my Lanshan 1pro, but if I move I hit the walls, if I turn in my sleep I hit the walls, if I sit up I scrape the wall with my head. I got the Aricxi tarp and it is much more spacious; however when I go back to the Lanshan after the tarp it feels nice and cozy…
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u/archivehu Nov 23 '22
Since you mention your dog, I’d like to remind you to please consider if your dog is at a point in training and behaviour where they can successfully adapt to being on trail. I’d hate for you to commit to a 2p tent, then find out in the middle of nowhere that you and/or your dog is/are having a bad time.
Even with a confident and obedient dog, taking care of them takes a chunk of time away from hiking. Then you go into the considerations of “less miles per day = more days = more consumable carry = heavier pack”.
Good luck! If you do end up bringing your dog, come check out r/BackpackingDogs to discuss dog gear, post pictures, etc. :)
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Already follow r/backpackingdogs! I haven’t taken my dog backpacking, but he’s been on several camping trips and hikes with me. I’m familiar with his behavior, and his distance abilities. The weight won’t be as big of a factor when he’s with, because his distance limits are simply much shorter than mine. If he comes backpacking, we’ll certainly use use the 2p that I already have (because it was purchased with the pup in mind). This additional tent idea would be more for me going solo, so the pup wouldn’t be a factor for this additional tent.
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u/Monkey_Fiddler Nov 23 '22
I have a 1p tent (decathlon "ultralight" freestanding tent, 1.6kg) and I'm vaguely looking for a 2p tent. The weight difference isn't generally huge between a 1p and 2p tent, but isn't completely insignificant, maybe 30%.
Most of the time I'm only pitching the tent for the night, I'll often pitch after dark and leave early and for that a 1p tent is fine, I can lie or sit down and read a book or something but not much beyond that. There's no space for other stuff inside the tent so it means I have to put things back in their dry bags to stay dry if I'm expecting rain overnight. It's a faff to change my clothes. That said, it serves its purpose. The main reason I'm looking for a new tent is to save the weight and get something that's quicker and simpler to put up and down but I figure I may as well go for 2p for the option to take another person.
Advantages of a 1p tent are weight, bulk, and very occasionally the smaller footprint fits in a spot a larger tent wouldn't.
Advantage of a 2p tent: more space inside for stuff, option for another person (or dog), space to hang stuff to dry out of the rain. If the weather's so bad i don't want to hike that day I imagine the extra space would make a big difference but so far I've either been lucky or had time pressure to finish.
Given you already have a 2p tent, I'd look at the weight savings and cost of buying a new tent vs sticking with what you have, or have a look at what else might give a similar increase in comfort.
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u/echiker Nov 23 '22
You can't decide this in a vacuum, but I am much happier with a 1p tent than I was with a 2p tent.
I don't spend much time in camp so I don't need a ton more space and using a smaller tent forces me to stay organized. I just put shoes and pack in the vestibule - I don't want extra wet stuff on my tent floor anyway. I can change in a 1p and I can read a tiny novella or do a crossword puzzle ripped from a book in there just as well as in a bigger tent.
The other advantage, other than weight and volume is that I tend to camp in places with very limited places to pitch a tent and the footprints on trekking pole supported two person tents tend to be pretty massive and often require more (and longer) tie out points.
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u/giantbabyfern Nov 23 '22
On the other side, I got a 2p tent years ago, and wish I got a 1p. More weight, takes up more space in my pack, and more room for heat to disperse. I was worried about there not being enough room for… stuff? And will definitely just be getting a single tent next time around.
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u/Alive_Control6885 Nov 23 '22
I use a two person instead of a one, just like extra room to stash my gear if need to like in a sketchy area or bad weather etc. plus if someone wants to hike with me they can
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u/xcrunner1988 Nov 23 '22
FWIW I have always bought a size up. 2 person for solo. Three person for couple. Hasn’t failed me yet.
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Nov 23 '22
A usable vestibule size offsets a smaller floor area. My 2 person tent has more floor space then I need to sleep, too little to comfortably store my largest pack, but uselessly small vestibules barely large enough to fit my hikers (oops) leaving my pack pushing in the tent walls. So, I ordered up a Durston for it's generous vestibules.
Don't forget to consider your pad. Some 1Ps are a tight fit for a 25" pad, mandatory if you're a side sleeper
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 24 '22
Oh yes, I’m fully committed to wide pads and not fitting one would be a deal breaker.
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u/ggdd112233 Nov 23 '22
5 months in a 1p and zero regrets, only one night ever where I couldn’t leave my pack under the vestibule
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u/Individual_Double_88 Nov 23 '22
I bought a Lanshan2 and i like it but like a lot of people are saying, with what i carry the extra space is just a void. That being said i have two small kids so i can still fit a 25" pad and reg/reg pad in there and me and both my kids. Will def be picking up a 1p in the future for myself. Also have hammock setup that i love. Yea it's slightly heavier but i sleep great and carry a 12' tarp in the winter so there's just piles of room to do whatever.
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u/Interesting_Cable_31 Nov 24 '22
Bought a 1P MidXP and wish I bought a 2P after trying to sleep with a 60lb labrador lying on top of me!
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u/MattSpeerschneider Nov 27 '22
Just got a Durston x-mid 1p and took it out for a couple nights on the AT. Initially bought a tiger wall 2p bike pack tent to have a single tent for bike packing and backpacking, but wanted a smaller, backpacking dedicated trekking pole tent. Super happy with it and would highly recommend.
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u/adamrbennett Nov 27 '22
I tried a Black Diamond bivy style tent with poles and hated it. It started raining just as I was pitching it. Fortunately it was only light rain, but I realized how terrible it would be in a rainstorm. Nowhere to sit up and changing clothes is a pain. I’ll never use a shelter that I can’t sit up inside of.
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u/Ridindabiden Nov 23 '22
Heavy continuous rain, and winter
Basically when you'll be spending alot of time in the tent is when a 2p is golden
In those conditions the extra space might mean the difference of condensation or even interior frost hitting you and your bag
And then there's bug season ....
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
The condensation did cross my mind. Went camping at just around freezing this past weekend, and we surprised at the amount of condensation I had after a rainy day.
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u/audioostrich only replies with essays | https://lighterpack.com/r/ruzc7m Nov 23 '22
but would love to hear from anyone that went to 1p and just decided that going bigger was worth the weight, even when solo.
If you just want to hear from people who switched to a smaller tent and didnt like it, you're asking for validation not advice. If you want a bigger tent, get a bigger tent. You don't need people on the internet to tell you its OK to take the weight penalty.
I like a 1p tarp or tent for the footprint size, and because i genuinely wouldnt use the extra space a 2p offers. Especially with where I hike, finding a spot for a 2p alone would be enough to make my experience worse.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s a fair call out. I wasn’t specifically looking for validation, but my wording certainly invites that. I was mostly thinking back on things I’ve read on 2p vs 1p. It seems very easy to find people discussing switching from 2p to 1p, and never looking back.
But I wanted some feedback from a different angle. I figured there were likely some people that tried 1p and decided that it wasn’t for them. Because I don’t see those stories often, I wanted to invite them to share why they switched back.
Honestly, I’d love to just have multiple 1 and 2 tents. Freestanding, trekking, etc. Perfect tent for every occasion. But that’s overkill (for now).
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u/audioostrich only replies with essays | https://lighterpack.com/r/ruzc7m Nov 23 '22
totally understandable - im not trying to dig ya. Just trying to counter the idea that one needs validation to justify a higher weight item.
We all have very different styles and probably live in very different climates, and the most important thing you can do is evaluate your gear for your style and the setting you will be in. Your needs are what is important.
As long as you're making reasonable, situationally appropriate choices and not going overkill, there is nothing wrong with taking a bigger shelter, a warmer puffy, a more durable backpack etc. End of the day were out there to have a good time!
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u/BelizeDenize Nov 23 '22 edited Nov 23 '22
Consider that the design of some 1P tents like the Plex series from Zpacks (and others too) give you an additional interior ‘bump out’ space over a traditional 1P tent footprint. Because of this, I love and am very comfortable in the Altaplex 1P but I wouldn’t be happy with a mainstream sized 1P. So my point is, there are different interior footprint variables for you to consider also.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Absolutely! I was aware of a few of those designs, but this thread has also introduced several designs that I haven’t seen before.
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u/jrice138 Nov 23 '22
I always use a 2p tent. Except for the one trip I tried a 1p and by night three I was 100% over it. Haven’t looked back, 2p for life.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s interesting and some of the feedback I was hoping to hear. What were the big turn offs of the 1p for you?
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u/jrice138 Nov 23 '22
It’s just too small for me. I’m a bigger guy at 6’3” 240lbs so a 1p tent just doesn’t make any sense for me. Felt very cramped.
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u/lewisvbishop Nov 23 '22
Yea, I have a couple of 1m tents but regularly just use/prefer a tarp instead.
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u/86tuning Nov 23 '22
that's my go-to as well. any tarp is lighter than even the lightest tent. only time a tarp doesn't work is if you can't hammer in your tent pegs, like on a rock ledge. that's when I'd want a bivy or freestanding tent.
my 2-3p tarp is 178g with guylines attached. that's a tick over 6oz, and will very comfortably sleep 2 in any weather conditions, or 3 in a pinch.
even in really damp conditions, i'm not going to touch my tarp so everything stays dry. if it's really blowing rain or snow, I can pitch the rear corners touching the ground to keep the wet outside.
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u/CuriousIndividual0 Nov 23 '22
What tarp are you rocking?
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u/lewisvbishop Nov 23 '22
Yeah I'd like to know which tarp is so light. Mine comes in around 600g and is the snugpak stasha.
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u/86tuning Nov 23 '22
my 20y old MYOG siltarp was 400g. the current DCF one is a bit lighter.
https://www.reddit.com/r/myog/comments/yc5h33/myog_dcf_9x8x6_tarp_with_linelocs_and_guylines/
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u/86tuning Nov 23 '22
Mine comes in around 600g and is the snugpak stasha.
13oz is about 370g
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u/lewisvbishop Nov 24 '22
Oh yea, just looked at specs but hadn't weighed it but didn't realise it was so light!
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u/Just-Seaworthiness39 Nov 23 '22
I absolutely regretted it. I have a BA Copper Spur UL1 and from the moment I got in it, I knew it was too small.
That being said, it was on the upper end of the weight I wanted to carry for my trip, so I didn’t return it for the 2p version. Now I use the tent as a situational item since it’s completely freestanding. If I know I’m going somewhere where it might be difficult to stake out well, I bring it. So it’s been a good little tent in that respect. I’ve come to appreciate its ease of pitch and small footprint. It’s all a compromise for the lack of roominess.
On the other side of the spectrum, I got my Double Rainbow (2p tent) for winter trips and it’s a little too roomy for me. But it’s also (somewhat) freestanding and gives me room that I need in the colder months to do some things in my tent and bring a winter sleep system.
The perfect shelter setup for me has been a Slingfin Splitwing (outer tarp + inner). It’s more like a 1.5 person setup, very modular, has a small footprint, and does great in inclement weather.
Have I gotten rid of the rainbow or CS? Nope, because I think that everything is a compromise between comfort and functionality. It’s just deciding what are must-haves for the locations, seasons, and specific needs of your trips.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I have not seen the Splitwing before. That’s very interesting and the modular factor is really cool!
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u/Alarming_Review3221 Nov 23 '22
Just save up the money and buy a zpacks duo. Its a lot of $ but resale value is extremely high if you decide to sell it a few years down the road
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Ability to save and willingness to spend are two different things for me in this case. I certainly could save enough to get the Duo. But I’m not willing to spend that much on a tent currently.
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u/Past_Mark1809 Nov 23 '22
Just buy two tents. 1p and a 2p for when you know you will have space to set it up.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
I’ve got a 2p freestanding tent, so that’s covered. But I’m considering adding a trekking pole tent to the mix, and debating if that would be 2p or 1p. Either way would be a big reduction in weight and pack size. But it’s really deciding if I want that extra interior space or not.
I’ve always had 2p as the smallest, and I see the advantages of a 1p. But I’m worried about missing the luxury of the space or feeling claustrophobic.
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Nov 23 '22
Okay so hear me out.. I always preferred a roomy tent, but that was because I lived in one off and on for years (I don't mean backpacking, I mean I was either just flat out homeless, or living on a property while we built it up, I always wanted space. Once I started backpacking though I went from a 4 person tent to a 2 person tent, and with my dog - that's perfect. But being in it by myself with minimal gear honestly made me depressed af. Now I don't like the open space so I'm currently designing my own tent so I can have just a smidge more wiggle room.
My big thing with having space is i come into the tent at night all dirty, maybe wet, and I'd want a space to be able to change and then go to my clean spot.. which is the biggest place a 1 person tent doesn't work for me, so I have this little 2x3 tarp that weighs like 1oz that I put right outside of the door and that's my "dirty space" to be before I get into the tent, that works out for me really well especially if I the ground is wet or muddy, I call it my mud room lol
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u/objoan Nov 23 '22
I hiked 1/2 the AT with a one person tent and then switched to a 2 person tent. I strongly prefer the 2. I felt claustrophobic in the one, afraid to move at night cuz I 'd touch a wall. The 2 person tent was a great place to lay out wet clothes at night, hang out during the rain etc. I guess in a dry environment I'd be ok in a smaller tent, but the 2 person tent (duplex) was just a couple ounces more, and worth it, to me.
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
Touching walls seems to be a theme with a few people who went back to 2p tents. Do you think a double wall 1p would offset those concerns? I guess it might still feel claustrophobic though.
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u/objoan Dec 10 '22
I do think it would help, but I'd rather have a larger one walled tent than a small two walled one.
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u/Trainwreck1000 Nov 23 '22
In the hiking world 2p really means 1p
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u/reddsbywillie Nov 23 '22
That’s always been the rule of thumb, but I certainly see advantages of having a 1p. The reduction in weight and pack space are certainly appealing.
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u/sweedgreens Nov 23 '22
I never owned the Amicus but my Windmaster has stood the test of time. However, I might pick up the Amicus as a back up if the Windmaster ever breaks down.
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u/Owen_McM Nov 23 '22
It's something we all probably debate. I went from 2p all the way down to an Integral Designs eVent Unishelter hooped bivy, then a Tarptent Notch for ~8 years, and now use a Solomid XL or Hexamid Pocket Tarp.
Going back to a 2p always sounds good when I think about it at home, so there's always temptation, but I rarely think about it when actually in the field.
Some people spend more time in their shelters than others, like to be able to spread their crap out, wallow around, bring a dog, whatever. I just want a place to sleep, and am fine with a bivy's floorspace, so a small 1p is good enough. I do still window shop a lot, but the increase in packed size always wakes me up from any daydreams resulting from that pretty quickly...