Several of my fishing buddies have ditched their tent rain flies during the warmer months and instead bring a tarp similar to those used for hammock camping. Set up the tarp first if it's raining and then set up your tent under the tarp. Still need some trees, but you don't have to be as picky as when you are hammock camping. Hadn't camped in about a decade (tenting at the time & car camping and was using a cot in my tent instead of ground sleeping) and then a little over a year ago my neighbor got me into hammock camping. Loving the hammock camping, I can sleep well with out the cot so I can do some backpacking. Looking forward to your next video on hammocks.
Just did my first backpacking trip in a tent. I think the privacy of the tent helped out a lot with changing/cleaning and the ease of scattering your gear around to get what you need was pretty convenient.
I just love camping, I have used just about everything you can imagine. I do like a hammock now that I am older, it is just more comfortable and makes for a great night's sleep.
Good points Dan! I'm a hammock camper, using a Warbonnet XLC, but I modified it for use on the ground when trees aren't available, etc! I sewed 550-cord loops on the bottom corners and center for stakes and on the top corners for hanging. I also use a ground cloth and a tarp which is packed with the hammock anyway, system works great!!
In Northern Europe we mainly walk on treeless hills. So pretty much everyone uses a tent or tarp. Most double wall tents are designed to pitch fly first to protect the inner. Hammock camping is very much a niche thing here.
Here in Washington state when I think there will be heavy rain I add my lite weight backpacking tarp in and set that up first and put the tent under it (adds 15 oz)
I've done both (hammock and tent.) Actually slept very well in the hammock but found it wasn't worth the trouble. My sleeping pad was really uncomfortable until another hiker told me I was overinflating it. Once I realized that, Violas! It became comfortabler when I didn't blow it up until it was rock hard.
Thanks Dan for the video. Don't forget about tarp camping. Up to this year I used a hammock, before that a tent. A tarp set up is similar to the challenges of a tent, but you are not so worried about the 'floor' . You can throw a tarp down and put your sleeping pad on it. I configure my tarp into a tipi which gives me nearly standing head room in the centre. The tarp is a 4.5 m x 3 m and only weighs 690 grams. Worth a look.
I'm a tent guy, hammocking seems too complicated. Having said that, I'm looking forward to your hammock video. P.S. I saw your drive by cameo on Kyle's 10,000 subscribers video, you're a good man Dan Becker.
Once you get your hammock system dialed in, hammocking is more versatile any time you have trees that range from 15-25 feet (limited by diameter) apart. A very large rainfly with doors makes a hammock almost like a tent, except that you will have an extremely small bug-free area unless you carry an extremely large and heavy bug net, in which case, a tent might be lighter.
Hammocking is less complicated than a tent once you find the right trees. Just wrap the straps around the trees plus your tarp and your sleep ready. In my group the hammock guys were always set up or packed up before the tent guys
Thank you for linking to that video for setting up a tent in the rain. I have used some janky ways to try and keep my main tent dry while setting up in the rain but this is genius. I made mine after watching that video using some old para-cord and washers. Worked like a charm for my Nemo Hornet 2P. Thanks again
"Ever tried to set up a tent in the rain?" There are some tent models with in which poles are located outside of the tent. This way you can quickly setup it and keep inner part dry. For example look at Salewa Litetrack and Vaude Mark L. I own Vaude Mark L 2P, it is really fast to set up, however it is relatively heavy (around 3Kg).
Good advice. I use the Big Agnes Copper Spur 1, and I got the footprint for it because when it's raining you can set up the footprint with the poles and then put the rain fly over the poles and set up the actual tent from under the rain fly, keeping it (mostly) dry.
Completely agree with everything you said. While I pretty much exclusively sleep in a hammock, I don't mind sleeping on the ground if I have to. If you have a crappy tent and a crappy pad of course you're gonna sleep terribly. Thats why I love my Neo-Air Xtherm and borrowing Tim's tarptent.
Another point for tents: they are more easily shared, allowing a group to split the weight. They make backpacking tents up to four people (which i would actually call a realistic 2-3 person tent)
I use a Vaude Taurus 2 tent which is absolutely fabulous, you can set it up in the rain no problem, its a double layer tent, however the poles go in the rainfly and the inner tent attaches to the rainfly. Works absolutely great, super recomended.
I did a coastal hike last September. It was 4 days, three nights. The weather was perfect on the first day..until 4 p.m. a storm moved in quickly. It rained hard from 5 p.m. until 4 am. Glad I had a tent.
Macpac tents (Duolight for example) come with a similar strap system for setting up tents in the rain. There are also quite a few that allow you to set up the fly first without straps, sometimes using the footprint instead, then the tent underneath.
That is why I love Hilleberg or Fjällräven; brands from Sweden have the inner and fly connected. Specifically designed for setting up in bad weather! :) You get what you pay for!!! :)
@LoveofVelvet I would not trust my life to those cheaper tents; I've seen so many "cheaper" tents fail. You won't see cheaper tents used on expeditions (K2, Everest, Polar areas, high mountain areas)..wonder why?? hhhmmmmm You have your own opinion, but don't give me that bs that cheaper tents can handle what the top brands can do.. they can't! I've literally seen tents get torn to pieces and then we have to shelter the occupants in our "non-cheap" tents during storms.
Very good video subject, as usual. I always carry an extra tarp to set up between the trees as a shelter in case of rain when I am going to set up my tent when you switch with the conditions arrive. I am much rather setting up a tent under a tarp when it’s raining then a hammock. There are more chances for him up to get wet under those conditions, in my opinion. Thank you very much for this video. God bless you.
I use the Big Agnes Tiger Wall. It is designed to let you setup the rain fly first if you also use the ground sheet designed for it. I'm sure other backpacking tents have the same feature.
Don’t protect you against bugs or animals, only useful for light rain and light snow and finally don’t use a tarp! I had to do tarps camping and its only good for certain seasons where bugs are not that active or you are not staying for long. The last thing you want are scorpion stings or spider bites, have seen those a lot in the military.
You think a tent will protect you from animals? No they will get in if they want to. Also in the infantry (USMC) we never used tents unless it around 0 degrees outside, we almost never used any kind of tarp to sleep in, we mostly used tarps to cover our packs from rain. We did use bivys when it rained hard. We did use tarps when we were out in the desert. Scorpions were never an issues although we did see plenty of them. Spiders rarely were a problem. For some reason bugs and animals don't like going near a battalion or company full of smelly grunts. We never used nets of any kind outside of southeast Asia, like Thailand, Cambodia, or Vietnam. Their was no need to use them. The only people that used tents often if not all the time in USMC were non infantry units, and of course the top brass in the field. Besides Infantry, I'd say artillery batteries are the most out in the field. We live outdoors and or train outdoors every week every day. At least like 10 months out of the year, the other two months are going on leave (vacation), as well as cleaning gear and weapons, as well as medical, administrative and ceremonial duties. Non infantry units may spend as little as three weeks to a month in the field, most or half of that is spent at the shooting range to do their annual qualification. And that's just the USMC, other branches do even less in certain cases. So when someone mentions the military, be advised that you might be talking to the mail man or the waterdog that puts water in containers so that infantrymen can drinking water while running live fires in a killhouse.
The reason why you do not have any trouble being comfortable in a tent is only because you always bring 2 pillows 😉 Tent for me... I like the space for my gear!🤙
While stationed in the Arizona desert I always took both a hammock and a small tent with me on my hikes. Whatever camp site was available would determine which to use. My tent fly doubled as a shelter for the hammock; usually never needed it. Here in Virginia I still do the same taking both a hammock and a OneTigris Bungalow; a 10X10 Aqua Quest tarp is always in my Jeep. When car camping I have three sleep options including sleeping in the back of the SUV when there are lightning storms. It all comes down to personal preference and I'm not adverse to any option. Just being outdoors works for me...heck, I spent many a night in a debris shelter.
I usually use a tent (Lanshan II) but sometimes use a 3x3 tarp. I love the tarp: (1) light; (2) it can be set up in many different configurations; (3) its roomy; (4) can usually look out at nature. But, I do worry about critters and that's why I usually use a tent. Never used a hammock but it looks interesting. Love your videos. Keep 'em coming.
Love your channel Dan. Info is great. Entertaining. Best backpacking channel out there. Advice is awesome. I have watched all of you stuff. Keep it coming. 👊👊
The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 has an option to set up the footprint and rain fly first. It saved us in a pop up shower in Colorado. It worked great! You just need to pack the footprint and rain fly on top for quick access.
I found the opposite to be true when it comes to all the bending, kneeling & squating one has to do to get in and maneuver around inside the standard 1-3 person tents. Most of these have no more than about 4 ft. of peak height. Because the hammock and tarp can be set higher, the camper using it can stand higher for most of his/her activities. Thus less stress on the back and knees.
My hammock setup means one that I can set up the rain fly first and eliminate all rain worry, and two that if I use trekking poles I can actually make it just a long triangle above the ground and sleep there if there’s no trees
Update my setup was a little heavier than a tent. I had a little bit of trouble finding good trees. I was off the ground and it was actually pretty comfortable.
Some double wall tents can be set up fly first. Mine is a Dan Durston x-mid. I recently set it up in a thunderstorm that poured down rain just as I got to my campsite. When I crawled in, the inside of the tent was just as dry as ever.
Hello Dan, it's good to see again. I've always been a tent camper. Hammock camping to me is too uncomfortable. I have safety concerns about hammock camping. I envision a hammock as an extra large suspended burrito, which is easy prey for bears, cougars and coyotes. All the best to you for your good health. Please keep these informative and entertaining videos coming along. 🤗
The REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL is perfect for setting up in the rain because you can set up the foot print and rain fly first then install the inner tent. Not to mention it's pretty damn light for the money.
I use one of those 1/8 inch pads for a couple reasons. 1. There cheap, you really can’t find somethkng that light for that cheap. 2. There light duh 3. It doubles as the frame to my pack 4. I like trying to find comfy spots to sleep. Just got back from the wonderland trail Friday and used that pad I folded it in half to be torso length and had no problem sleeping. It doesn’t leave me aching in the morning. No it isn’t comfortable but it works to get me the sleep I need and it doesn’t leave me aching. I also prefer a harder surface to sleep on then a super cushiony one a sink into. FYI I’m a side sleeper. I have taken that pad down to freezing and still got about 6 hours of sleep on hard ground sense you had to camp in campsites but you can sleep much better if you can find a field of grass or leaves or soft sand to lay on. Also it helps to have hiked enough. On the Loowit trail a couple weeks ago did a huge first day and passed out on top of some roots and rocks on uneven ground with no tent or tarp and still slept with that pad because I was tired enough. After a long day of hiking just laying down will feel good. Definitely not for everyone but for me it gets the job done even in a hard campsite. Finding a bed of grass or something like that just makes things even better. Feel free to ask any questions
Hello all, unless your one of the ultra light people... Snugpak has double wall tents (I have 3 and love them and yes I have hammocks as well and all there related gear, I'm indifferent) that don't require you to seperate them, attach once, leave it. No rain or snow inside, ever. The poles are on the outside of the fly. Just a thought.
I sleep on a Thema Rest z-lite like pad. It’s very comfortable on grass grounds and ok on hard floors. It’s indestructible and very light and that’s why I use it
I have a jack wolfskin tent which takes its poles in the fly and the tent is toggled to the fly with shock cord. It sets up very quickly in the rain. I believe it is called the tundra III.
BA CS UL2 can be pitched fly first n the rain if you have the ground sheet down to clip the pole ends in. There is a video of a guy doing it in his driveway. I like that the cozy environment within your tent is like your home away from home. Yo each their own though. Love your work Daniel.
After dozens of nights in both this summer, I STILL cannot decide. I do agree on the 2 pillow strategy though!! I also wound up camping on the ground under a tarp when I camped in a hammock in the black hills (trees) and neglected to think of this during a detour in the badlands (no trees).
My tent has a fast fly set up. So I can set the ground sheet and poles with the rain fly, then I can set up the interior mesh under the cover of the rain fly. I’m pretty sure your Big Agnes tent that you have has this option if you buy their ground sheet. But it does ad more weight. But you can also save weight if you are going somewhere you know you won’t need big protection you can leave the interior at home and just use the fly.
I have a BA Flycreek UL2 and I always fast fly set it up so it’s ready to go and I’m better at putting it up. Good for rain, sun break, whatever. Love it
My solution for setting up a shelter in the rain is to combine a tarp + tent system. So, shelter goes up first, then you setup your tent underneath. You can opt to leave the tent fly at home if you're confident the tarp will give you adequate protection against wind and rain. Does take a bit more effort to setup a tarp though, but it works and you have a bit more outside room too :)
Tents. Always tent! A hammock couldnt pitch in death valley lol my big anges could. Definitely tent. Love you Dan great video! I use the foam pad under my uberlight to protect my pad 😄
Tents make it easier to create privacy in larger mixed company settings such as festivals and bushcrafting retreats. Tents also make it easier to batten down the hatches so to speak when camping in extended inclement weather.
I have the Gossamear Gear 1/8” thin lite pad, it’s multifunctional in my gear setup. I use it as a gear pad when unloading my pack, an extra pad to kneel on when not sleeping and finally I use it under my thermarest xtherm to prevent sliding at night. Great video Dan.
Hi Dan, i have Jack Wolfskin Termite 2 tent now. It’s a doublewall freestanding tent. The inner wall is attached to the outerwall and the tentpoles go on the outside. I replaced my old one because during my past hikes in Scotland it Rainier so much i had to take an extra towel to dry out my old tent.
Just getting outside any way you can is good, but I do like a good tent spot (with my Nemo Tensor) as well as a nice place to hang. Both have their place and you can enjoy both, just depends where you go. 👍 Appreciate the video.
Die-hard hammock-camper with a couple more tent benefits: (1) You mention not always finding places to set up a hammock and that's a great point. Here in California, I can always find places to pitch a tent, while a hammock may be more difficult depending on where I'm backpacking. (2) If privacy is a concern (say you're hiking with Scouts) then a tent is generally much easier to manage. If I'm backpacking someplace where I'm uncertain of how either situation will go, I'll opt for the tent every time.
I agree bud, always have. I have mountaineered all over the western and northern US. Try getting stuck in a storm and relying on a bivy, hammock, tarp, etc... No bueno amigo. With 3 person tents down to 3.5/4lbs you really should just get in shape to prepare for the worst case. If frequent outdoorsmen or woman enjoying overnighters in the backcountry then set yourself up for comfort.
A decent two wall tent allows you to set up the fly first, then you can put up the inner while staying dry. I’ve done it with my MSR tent with no issues at all.
i absolutely love my tent and sleep setup.I am old ,I have back issues and yet i sleep as comfy and content as home in my tent.I won't change. Note:my mates i go camping with regularly.. both prefer hammocks. Another note: I don't even have the best gear or It would be even better. I also have yet to not find and orient my tent even on steep terrain so i can lay reasonably flat.
Make please a why you should use a tarp for camping too! I love my tents, have free standing and a gossamer 1, I call it "the panzer" always dry...Its true you can find a spot for your tent, maybe some searching, I never have to set my tent on the rain...because I look at the weather and if rain come, I set camp! Well I have a air matt(always scare I get a puncture!) and such foam pads...I love that bloody multi use foam pad, when the weather is not too cold, is perfect for me, I use my backpack as a pillow and my bike bags under my knees...and sleep wonderfull, I came back from a bike tour, after 15 days sleeping on the ground with that pad...I was complaining that my bed was uncomfortable! Jajajajaja. Thanks for your great videos! I do hiking too!
My big agnes copper spur hv ul 1 tent (olive green) has a fast fly option so you can set up your tent in the rain without getting drenched! Its a pretty cool feature i think. Its not super easy but its not that hard to do either. Just have to buy their ground sheet in order for it to work correctly. I love that little tent. Just got back from a 5 day trip. Big agnes's high volume series are great! The copper spur is way better than the big agnes fly creek or nemos hornet as far as a one man tent goes in my opinion. Nice pack size, lightweight, taped seams, plenty of room, east to setup and take down. Color coated pole ends makes it dummy proof. Been using dome style tents all my life and would never camp any other way. Gotta have my space at the end of the day. Once you get a good tent, then your sleeping pad and pillow are crucial for a great nights sleep so do your research and try out everything if you can! Dial it in! Thanks Dan!! Stay safe! Hike on!!
So Dan, you used to be a hammock camper but recently you’ve switched to tent camping, which do you prefer? Couldn’t agree more on the sleep system by the way. I cheaped out on my first purchases and had issues sleeping. After upgrading since then comfort level is much better. Keep up the awesome content bud!
I like tents after enduring many miserable storms under impromptu tarp lean-tos. Seriously considering a hammock system for stealthy night fishing overnight adventures. I live in Ohio and I've never had an issue with Fish and Game officers but tents can be a dicey choice and unwanted encounter. I venture into nature for solitude rather than rules and regulations. Subbed for the next in this series.
Think it's best to own multiple items just to have different options to choose before going out. That way you can choose what to use depending on the terrain, weather, season, number of people joining the trip, whatever...
Can't wait to see the hammock video - I was thinkin' about switching from a tent to a hammock so ... perfect timing dude - one factor to consider tho is ... them old people ( me ) that find it really difficult ( due to age, previous injury, etc ) to beat gravity and get OUT of their tent in the morning after our old bones lock in place - great channel dude keep em coming
I was hammock capping (With a large cover tarp) off of Lake Coeur D' Alene and a crazy rainstorm came out of nowhere. It was literally blowing sideways. Fortunately, I had set up a tent as a backup shelter which I moved into very quickly. In the morning my hammock and everything on and around it was saturated. I was dry…
There's quite a few tents that you don't have to pitch inner first. Just bought a new tent for a trip so looked at loads; I will say the majority of the US designed/manufactured ones seemed to me to pitch inner first. There's usually ways to minimise inner exposure to rain, though.
HA! Here's one for ya. I love having a hammock at camp because it's great to lounge, take naps and chill. BUT, I have never been able to get a good nights sleep in one, so I compromised. I take a hammock, one with a built in bug net, and my Onewind 12' hammock tarp (which is deliciously awesome). During the day I hang the hammock and for sleeping I drop the hammock to the ground on a ground sheet and lower my tarp pitch to provide better protection. I connect the bug net to a ridgeline I have connected to my tarp. It basically becomes a tent inner and is actually easier to get out of than a tent because I don't have to unzip the rainfly. The added benefit is that I have a huge living space during the day. I refuse to be defeated by this evil world! Plus, taking my hammock gives me an excuse not to take anyone with me cause all I have to say is that I won't have room in my hammock. Not that anyone has ever asked.
I have 2 double walled tents. I can put both up in the rain/snow and not get anything in it. Ok. They are both 4 season tents and the poles go on the outside of the fly.
I love my tent. Plus if it's raining I can keep my inner tent in its stuff sack, set up my rain fly then set up the inner tent from inside the rain fly. It's not too hard. I also agree about the place to live. Plus I have a dog that always comes with me and she needs to be with me in the tent. Don't think that would work with a hammock. But I would really love to try a hammock someday
I purchased a new tent this season. After weeks of research I spent 100$ on a 2 person tent by featherstone. My average set up time for a two wall free standing system with a nice bathtub takes about 4 mins at 5 lbs. . It also has an option for UL Just using the fly and the 1 piece pole system about 3 lbs. Been out with this tent over 20 nights and I loooooove it. I use a klymit static pad and a down alternative no name sleeping bag. Use my clothes for a pillow and I have yet to have a bad experience in that system for close to 3 months. I spent 1 night in my tried and true hammock and wanted my tent so bad I drove home to get it the next day. Haha. I like hammocks but always sleep better in a tent. But that's just me.
Tent, all in! Lighter, more protected from rain... LoL, I tried that pad...it did not work for me. I like the Thermarest pads and the sea to summit pillow. Super comfy for me.
Hey Dan, have you ever looked into Exped? i never see many hikers talking about the company, and their sleeping pads and pillows are hands down the best I have ever used.
1.I’m a side sleeper 2. I have a leg condition exacerbated by pressure on my back side. Both of these make anything more than a brief nap in a hammock quite uncomfortable, so easy choice for me.
Just a FYI, that MSR tent you mentioned in the other guys video is designed to have the ability to attach the rain flyer before the tent. I owned that tent and love that design. However I think most of the tent won't work that way. By the way, any suggestions for backpacking route in southeast Wisconsin?
When hiking in the arboreal hilly NE, the hammock leaves you with way more site possibilities. I have found the campsite/lean to be crowded when, say, Holiday weekend backpacking. The farther out one goes, the better a hammock is to be able to pitch a site practically anywhere. I don't have one yet, but the Haven Tents looks look really good to me. S does the Tentsile UNA, but you need 3 suspension points instead of 2.
I just made the switch from hammock to tent, gonna give it a shot. Rocking out the Lanshan 2 on a budget buy, have you ever tried its big brother the Duplex?
Who thinks I should post this video in Hammock Forums? 😮🤣
Do it!! :)
YES!!!
you'll get blasted....😕
👍😏
You'd then be able to join the rest of us hammock forums rejects. 😄
Several of my fishing buddies have ditched their tent rain flies during the warmer months and instead bring a tarp similar to those used for hammock camping. Set up the tarp first if it's raining and then set up your tent under the tarp. Still need some trees, but you don't have to be as picky as when you are hammock camping. Hadn't camped in about a decade (tenting at the time & car camping and was using a cot in my tent instead of ground sleeping) and then a little over a year ago my neighbor got me into hammock camping. Loving the hammock camping, I can sleep well with out the cot so I can do some backpacking. Looking forward to your next video on hammocks.
Thats a clever idea
Just did my first backpacking trip in a tent. I think the privacy of the tent helped out a lot with changing/cleaning and the ease of scattering your gear around to get what you need was pretty convenient.
I just love camping, I have used just about everything you can imagine. I do like a hammock now that I am older, it is just more comfortable and makes for a great night's sleep.
Good points Dan!
I'm a hammock camper, using a Warbonnet XLC, but I modified it for use on the ground when trees aren't available, etc!
I sewed 550-cord loops on the bottom corners and center for stakes and on the top corners for hanging.
I also use a ground cloth and a tarp which is packed with the hammock anyway, system works great!!
In Northern Europe we mainly walk on treeless hills. So pretty much everyone uses a tent or tarp. Most double wall tents are designed to pitch fly first to protect the inner. Hammock camping is very much a niche thing here.
Here in Washington state when I think there will be heavy rain I add my lite weight backpacking tarp in and set that up first and put the tent under it (adds 15 oz)
I agree with you. I use my Army poncho as a tarp over the tent and/or to start a fire. Good Luck, Rick
For sure. My rain gear is a large poncho that doubles as a tarp. If the weather was crazy I’d rig it up and set up under
@@meganallday In a heavy rain or snow, that tarp above the tent can keep you drier and warmer. Good Luck, Rick
Cool cameo with Kyle...."we gotta talk".
I applaud that Dan!!!!
Yes! Dan has great sense of humor, love it!
I def loled irl
Yeah that was really funny and really nice of you. Hope the drive home in your new ride was a good one.
I've got a vango tent and the fly has the poles meaning you can set up and take down the inner in the rain, no worries about getting wet.
I've done both (hammock and tent.) Actually slept very well in the hammock but found it wasn't worth the trouble. My sleeping pad was really uncomfortable until another hiker told me I was overinflating it. Once I realized that, Violas! It became comfortabler when I didn't blow it up until it was rock hard.
Thanks Dan for the video. Don't forget about tarp camping. Up to this year I used a hammock, before that a tent. A tarp set up is similar to the challenges of a tent, but you are not so worried about the 'floor' . You can throw a tarp down and put your sleeping pad on it. I configure my tarp into a tipi which gives me nearly standing head room in the centre. The tarp is a 4.5 m x 3 m and only weighs 690 grams. Worth a look.
Great vid Dan! And the video you linked about how to setting up a tent in the rain is genius!, Those straps are very lightweight and easy to make
I'm a tent guy, hammocking seems too complicated. Having said that, I'm looking forward to your hammock video. P.S. I saw your drive by cameo on Kyle's 10,000 subscribers video, you're a good man Dan Becker.
As someone who avidly does both, imma actually say hammock set up is far easier, but’s that’s just my two cents
Once you get your hammock system dialed in, hammocking is more versatile any time you have trees that range from 15-25 feet (limited by diameter) apart. A very large rainfly with doors makes a hammock almost like a tent, except that you will have an extremely small bug-free area unless you carry an extremely large and heavy bug net, in which case, a tent might be lighter.
Hammocking is less complicated than a tent once you find the right trees. Just wrap the straps around the trees plus your tarp and your sleep ready. In my group the hammock guys were always set up or packed up before the tent guys
Thank you for linking to that video for setting up a tent in the rain. I have used some janky ways to try and keep my main tent dry while setting up in the rain but this is genius. I made mine after watching that video using some old para-cord and washers. Worked like a charm for my Nemo Hornet 2P. Thanks again
Paracord and washers are pretty genius as well!!
"Ever tried to set up a tent in the rain?"
There are some tent models with in which poles are located outside of the tent. This way you can quickly setup it and keep inner part dry. For example look at Salewa Litetrack and Vaude Mark L. I own Vaude Mark L 2P, it is really fast to set up, however it is relatively heavy (around 3Kg).
Good advice. I use the Big Agnes Copper Spur 1, and I got the footprint for it because when it's raining you can set up the footprint with the poles and then put the rain fly over the poles and set up the actual tent from under the rain fly, keeping it (mostly) dry.
Completely agree with everything you said. While I pretty much exclusively sleep in a hammock, I don't mind sleeping on the ground if I have to. If you have a crappy tent and a crappy pad of course you're gonna sleep terribly. Thats why I love my Neo-Air Xtherm and borrowing Tim's tarptent.
Another point for tents: they are more easily shared, allowing a group to split the weight. They make backpacking tents up to four people (which i would actually call a realistic 2-3 person tent)
I use a Vaude Taurus 2 tent which is absolutely fabulous, you can set it up in the rain no problem, its a double layer tent, however the poles go in the rainfly and the inner tent attaches to the rainfly. Works absolutely great, super recomended.
I did a coastal hike last September. It was 4 days, three nights. The weather was perfect on the first day..until 4 p.m. a storm moved in quickly. It rained hard from 5 p.m. until 4 am. Glad I had a tent.
My hammock system could also survive that
@@nk6197 I never used a hammock. There weren't any trees to string one across. How did you use it on a beach?
Macpac tents (Duolight for example) come with a similar strap system for setting up tents in the rain. There are also quite a few that allow you to set up the fly first without straps, sometimes using the footprint instead, then the tent underneath.
That is why I love Hilleberg or Fjällräven; brands from Sweden have the inner and fly connected. Specifically designed for setting up in bad weather! :) You get what you pay for!!! :)
@LoveofVelvet I would not trust my life to those cheaper tents; I've seen so many "cheaper" tents fail.
You won't see cheaper tents used on expeditions (K2, Everest, Polar areas, high mountain areas)..wonder why?? hhhmmmmm
You have your own opinion, but don't give me that bs that cheaper tents can handle what the top brands can do.. they can't! I've literally seen tents get torn to pieces and then we have to shelter the occupants in our "non-cheap" tents during storms.
Hilleberg tents are a double walled shelter easily set up in the rain. Though quite $$$, they are worth every penny.
There are several other brands with the same property. I have an Exped and a Vango.
I’m with you on the pros of tents Dan!! I do agree they can be lighter than a hammock set up
Very good video subject, as usual. I always carry an extra tarp to set up between the trees as a shelter in case of rain when I am going to set up my tent when you switch with the conditions arrive. I am much rather setting up a tent under a tarp when it’s raining then a hammock. There are more chances for him up to get wet under those conditions, in my opinion. Thank you very much for this video. God bless you.
I always think about setting up my shelter in the rain and a tarp and hammock just makes more sense to me. Also I know that I’ll be more comfortable.
I use the Big Agnes Tiger Wall. It is designed to let you setup the rain fly first if you also use the ground sheet designed for it. I'm sure other backpacking tents have the same feature.
TODO: Part 3: Why you should use a TARP as a backpacking shelter
Don’t protect you against bugs or animals, only useful for light rain and light snow and finally don’t use a tarp! I had to do tarps camping and its only good for certain seasons where bugs are not that active or you are not staying for long. The last thing you want are scorpion stings or spider bites, have seen those a lot in the military.
Ever heard of a bug net or a specialized tarp that has sealable doors? Tarp camping is great with the right tarp
You think a tent will protect you from animals? No they will get in if they want to. Also in the infantry (USMC) we never used tents unless it around 0 degrees outside, we almost never used any kind of tarp to sleep in, we mostly used tarps to cover our packs from rain. We did use bivys when it rained hard. We did use tarps when we were out in the desert. Scorpions were never an issues although we did see plenty of them. Spiders rarely were a problem. For some reason bugs and animals don't like going near a battalion or company full of smelly grunts. We never used nets of any kind outside of southeast Asia, like Thailand, Cambodia, or Vietnam. Their was no need to use them. The only people that used tents often if not all the time in USMC were non infantry units, and of course the top brass in the field. Besides Infantry, I'd say artillery batteries are the most out in the field. We live outdoors and or train outdoors every week every day. At least like 10 months out of the year, the other two months are going on leave (vacation), as well as cleaning gear and weapons, as well as medical, administrative and ceremonial duties. Non infantry units may spend as little as three weeks to a month in the field, most or half of that is spent at the shooting range to do their annual qualification. And that's just the USMC, other branches do even less in certain cases. So when someone mentions the military, be advised that you might be talking to the mail man or the waterdog that puts water in containers so that infantrymen can drinking water while running live fires in a killhouse.
Just came across your RUclips. Great to see a fellow Kenoshan.
I enjoy watching bushcraft, can't do it myself, but it is good to watch.
The reason why you do not have any trouble being comfortable in a tent is only because you always bring 2 pillows 😉
Tent for me... I like the space for my gear!🤙
3 for me.
While stationed in the Arizona desert I always took both a hammock and a small tent with me on my hikes. Whatever camp site was available would determine which to use. My tent fly doubled as a shelter for the hammock; usually never needed it. Here in Virginia I still do the same taking both a hammock and a OneTigris Bungalow; a 10X10 Aqua Quest tarp is always in my Jeep. When car camping I have three sleep options including sleeping in the back of the SUV when there are lightning storms. It all comes down to personal preference and I'm not adverse to any option. Just being outdoors works for me...heck, I spent many a night in a debris shelter.
I usually use a tent (Lanshan II) but sometimes use a 3x3 tarp. I love the tarp: (1) light; (2) it can be set up in many different configurations; (3) its roomy; (4) can usually look out at nature. But, I do worry about critters and that's why I usually use a tent. Never used a hammock but it looks interesting. Love your videos. Keep 'em coming.
Love your channel Dan. Info is great. Entertaining. Best backpacking channel out there. Advice is awesome. I have watched all of you stuff.
Keep it coming. 👊👊
I came to this channel for backpacking stuff and stayed for the dad jokes
Love to see you rocking the OV Nova Pro jacket, I'm jealous.
The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 has an option to set up the footprint and rain fly first. It saved us in a pop up shower in Colorado. It worked great! You just need to pack the footprint and rain fly on top for quick access.
Dan great vid! They also have tents (like mine) that you can set up the rain fly first with a floor. Then later you can hang the inner wall.
My Terranova starlite2 is great in the British wet weather, it's a double wall tent which goes up with the inner part already attached to the outer.
A tent is easier than a hammock as you get older. Sleeping flat with the ability to stretch out and sit up is the key.
I found the opposite to be true when it comes to all the bending, kneeling & squating one has to do to get in and maneuver around inside the standard 1-3 person tents. Most of these have no more than about 4 ft. of peak height. Because the hammock and tarp can be set higher, the camper using it can stand higher for most of his/her activities. Thus less stress on the back and knees.
@@PhilCherry3 I guess it what aches a person has. But, I will admit you do have to get on your knees.
My hammock setup means one that I can set up the rain fly first and eliminate all rain worry, and two that if I use trekking poles I can actually make it just a long triangle above the ground and sleep there if there’s no trees
"sleeping in a tent hurts your back"
I just .. what? Being an a hammock wrecks my back, I need a flat, stiff surface to sleep on
I use the GG 1/8 pad with a short torso length air. Love it. Also, it gets used so much around camp and in the dirt I call it Sandy.
I’m going hammock backpacking tomorrow for the first time. Wish me luck
Good luck
Hammock?? Yep good luck indeed
Update my setup was a little heavier than a tent. I had a little bit of trouble finding good trees. I was off the ground and it was actually pretty comfortable.
So?
How'd it go? Any thoughts?
@john hanrahan see right above your replie
Some double wall tents can be set up fly first. Mine is a Dan Durston x-mid. I recently set it up in a thunderstorm that poured down rain just as I got to my campsite. When I crawled in, the inside of the tent was just as dry as ever.
Cool idea on the video for the rain..very smart
Hello Dan, it's good to see again. I've always been a tent camper. Hammock camping to me is too uncomfortable. I have safety concerns about hammock camping. I envision a hammock as an extra large suspended burrito, which is easy prey for bears, cougars and coyotes. All the best to you for your good health. Please keep these informative and entertaining videos coming along. 🤗
The REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL is perfect for setting up in the rain because you can set up the foot print and rain fly first then install the inner tent. Not to mention it's pretty damn light for the money.
I use one of those 1/8 inch pads for a couple reasons. 1. There cheap, you really can’t find somethkng that light for that cheap. 2. There light duh 3. It doubles as the frame to my pack 4. I like trying to find comfy spots to sleep. Just got back from the wonderland trail Friday and used that pad I folded it in half to be torso length and had no problem sleeping. It doesn’t leave me aching in the morning. No it isn’t comfortable but it works to get me the sleep I need and it doesn’t leave me aching. I also prefer a harder surface to sleep on then a super cushiony one a sink into. FYI I’m a side sleeper. I have taken that pad down to freezing and still got about 6 hours of sleep on hard ground sense you had to camp in campsites but you can sleep much better if you can find a field of grass or leaves or soft sand to lay on. Also it helps to have hiked enough. On the Loowit trail a couple weeks ago did a huge first day and passed out on top of some roots and rocks on uneven ground with no tent or tarp and still slept with that pad because I was tired enough. After a long day of hiking just laying down will feel good. Definitely not for everyone but for me it gets the job done even in a hard campsite. Finding a bed of grass or something like that just makes things even better. Feel free to ask any questions
Hello all, unless your one of the ultra light people... Snugpak has double wall tents (I have 3 and love them and yes I have hammocks as well and all there related gear, I'm indifferent) that don't require you to seperate them, attach once, leave it. No rain or snow inside, ever. The poles are on the outside of the fly. Just a thought.
Great video, funny thing is I am having my new hammock system delivered today. Take Care
I sleep on a Thema Rest z-lite like pad. It’s very comfortable on grass grounds and ok on hard floors. It’s indestructible and very light and that’s why I use it
I have a jack wolfskin tent which takes its poles in the fly and the tent is toggled to the fly with shock cord. It sets up very quickly in the rain. I believe it is called the tundra III.
WOW! I LOVE your channel!!!!! It’s exactly what I needed!!!
Awesome! Glad to hear it's helpful!!
@@DanBecker You are AWESOME dan! :)
BA CS UL2 can be pitched fly first n the rain if you have the ground sheet down to clip the pole ends in. There is a video of a guy doing it in his driveway. I like that the cozy environment within your tent is like your home away from home. Yo each their own though. Love your work Daniel.
After dozens of nights in both this summer, I STILL cannot decide. I do agree on the 2 pillow strategy though!! I also wound up camping on the ground under a tarp when I camped in a hammock in the black hills (trees) and neglected to think of this during a detour in the badlands (no trees).
My tent has a fast fly set up. So I can set the ground sheet and poles with the rain fly, then I can set up the interior mesh under the cover of the rain fly. I’m pretty sure your Big Agnes tent that you have has this option if you buy their ground sheet. But it does ad more weight. But you can also save weight if you are going somewhere you know you won’t need big protection you can leave the interior at home and just use the fly.
I have a BA Flycreek UL2 and I always fast fly set it up so it’s ready to go and I’m better at putting it up. Good for rain, sun break, whatever. Love it
My solution for setting up a shelter in the rain is to combine a tarp + tent system. So, shelter goes up first, then you setup your tent underneath. You can opt to leave the tent fly at home if you're confident the tarp will give you adequate protection against wind and rain. Does take a bit more effort to setup a tarp though, but it works and you have a bit more outside room too :)
Tents. Always tent! A hammock couldnt pitch in death valley lol my big anges could. Definitely tent. Love you Dan great video! I use the foam pad under my uberlight to protect my pad 😄
Tents make it easier to create privacy in larger mixed company settings such as festivals and bushcrafting retreats. Tents also make it easier to batten down the hatches so to speak when camping in extended inclement weather.
I have the Gossamear Gear 1/8” thin lite pad, it’s multifunctional in my gear setup. I use it as a gear pad when unloading my pack, an extra pad to kneel on when not sleeping and finally I use it under my thermarest xtherm to prevent sliding at night. Great video Dan.
"We gotta talk." Classy bro. Very classy. Love your channel.
Great video bud! Keep up the good work!
I have the REI Quarter Dome Sl2. I do the fast pitch. Ground sheet pole then the rain fly over. Then set up the inner tent.
I love the 1/8 inch pad I also use a tarp shelter i hike high milelage an I can sleep any where
Hi Dan, i have Jack Wolfskin Termite 2 tent now. It’s a doublewall freestanding tent. The inner wall is attached to the outerwall and the tentpoles go on the outside. I replaced my old one because during my past hikes in Scotland it Rainier so much i had to take an extra towel to dry out my old tent.
Just getting outside any way you can is good, but I do like a good tent spot (with my Nemo Tensor) as well as a nice place to hang. Both have their place and you can enjoy both, just depends where you go. 👍 Appreciate the video.
My Big Agnes Copper Spur tent can be setup with the ground cloth and rain fly first, then ad the tent body.
Die-hard hammock-camper with a couple more tent benefits: (1) You mention not always finding places to set up a hammock and that's a great point. Here in California, I can always find places to pitch a tent, while a hammock may be more difficult depending on where I'm backpacking. (2) If privacy is a concern (say you're hiking with Scouts) then a tent is generally much easier to manage. If I'm backpacking someplace where I'm uncertain of how either situation will go, I'll opt for the tent every time.
I agree bud, always have. I have mountaineered all over the western and northern US. Try getting stuck in a storm and relying on a bivy, hammock, tarp, etc... No bueno amigo. With 3 person tents down to 3.5/4lbs you really should just get in shape to prepare for the worst case. If frequent outdoorsmen or woman enjoying overnighters in the backcountry then set yourself up for comfort.
The fast fly option from Big Agnes allows you to set up tents in the rain without the inside getting wet.
Just subscribed. Love your vids, thanks for feeding the dream!
A decent two wall tent allows you to set up the fly first, then you can put up the inner while staying dry. I’ve done it with my MSR tent with no issues at all.
i absolutely love my tent and sleep setup.I am old ,I have back issues and yet i sleep as comfy and content as home in my tent.I won't change.
Note:my mates i go camping with regularly.. both prefer hammocks.
Another note: I don't even have the best gear or It would be even better.
I also have yet to not find and orient my tent even on steep terrain so i can lay reasonably flat.
"Ever tried to set up a tent in the rain?" yea, like setting a hammock up in the rain is super dry and quick....
If you set your tarp first you keep the hammock and sleep system dry. I do this all the time.
Easily set up my tent in the rain
Make please a why you should use a tarp for camping too! I love my tents, have free standing and a gossamer 1, I call it "the panzer" always dry...Its true you can find a spot for your tent, maybe some searching, I never have to set my tent on the rain...because I look at the weather and if rain come, I set camp! Well I have a air matt(always scare I get a puncture!) and such foam pads...I love that bloody multi use foam pad, when the weather is not too cold, is perfect for me, I use my backpack as a pillow and my bike bags under my knees...and sleep wonderfull, I came back from a bike tour, after 15 days sleeping on the ground with that pad...I was complaining that my bed was uncomfortable! Jajajajaja. Thanks for your great videos! I do hiking too!
My big agnes copper spur hv ul 1 tent (olive green) has a fast fly option so you can set up your tent in the rain without getting drenched! Its a pretty cool feature i think. Its not super easy but its not that hard to do either. Just have to buy their ground sheet in order for it to work correctly. I love that little tent. Just got back from a 5 day trip. Big agnes's high volume series are great! The copper spur is way better than the big agnes fly creek or nemos hornet as far as a one man tent goes in my opinion. Nice pack size, lightweight, taped seams, plenty of room, east to setup and take down. Color coated pole ends makes it dummy proof. Been using dome style tents all my life and would never camp any other way. Gotta have my space at the end of the day. Once you get a good tent, then your sleeping pad and pillow are crucial for a great nights sleep so do your research and try out everything if you can! Dial it in! Thanks Dan!! Stay safe! Hike on!!
So Dan, you used to be a hammock camper but recently you’ve switched to tent camping, which do you prefer? Couldn’t agree more on the sleep system by the way. I cheaped out on my first purchases and had issues sleeping. After upgrading since then comfort level is much better. Keep up the awesome content bud!
I like both by prefer a tent. I like the living space and privacy
I like tents after enduring many miserable storms under impromptu tarp lean-tos. Seriously considering a hammock system for stealthy night fishing overnight adventures. I live in Ohio and I've never had an issue with Fish and Game officers but tents can be a dicey choice and unwanted encounter. I venture into nature for solitude rather than rules and regulations. Subbed for the next in this series.
I have a Vango Tempest Pro 200 tent. Inner and outer that pitches as one piece!
Think it's best to own multiple items just to have different options to choose before going out. That way you can choose what to use depending on the terrain, weather, season, number of people joining the trip, whatever...
Can't wait to see the hammock video - I was thinkin' about switching from a tent to a hammock so ... perfect timing dude - one factor to consider tho is ... them old people ( me ) that find it really difficult ( due to age, previous injury, etc ) to beat gravity and get OUT of their tent in the morning after our old bones lock in place - great channel dude keep em coming
Check out Shug emery here on RUclips. Probably the best hammock content you will ever find.
Thanks man good lookin' out
I was hammock capping (With a large cover tarp) off of Lake Coeur D' Alene and a crazy rainstorm came out of nowhere. It was literally blowing sideways. Fortunately, I had set up a tent as a backup shelter which I moved into very quickly. In the morning my hammock and everything on and around it was saturated. I was dry…
There's quite a few tents that you don't have to pitch inner first.
Just bought a new tent for a trip so looked at loads; I will say the majority of the US designed/manufactured ones seemed to me to pitch inner first. There's usually ways to minimise inner exposure to rain, though.
Double wall tent that is attached together. Works the same as single wall but better for condensation
HA! Here's one for ya. I love having a hammock at camp because it's great to lounge, take naps and chill. BUT, I have never been able to get a good nights sleep in one, so I compromised. I take a hammock, one with a built in bug net, and my Onewind 12' hammock tarp (which is deliciously awesome). During the day I hang the hammock and for sleeping I drop the hammock to the ground on a ground sheet and lower my tarp pitch to provide better protection. I connect the bug net to a ridgeline I have connected to my tarp. It basically becomes a tent inner and is actually easier to get out of than a tent because I don't have to unzip the rainfly. The added benefit is that I have a huge living space during the day. I refuse to be defeated by this evil world! Plus, taking my hammock gives me an excuse not to take anyone with me cause all I have to say is that I won't have room in my hammock. Not that anyone has ever asked.
I have 2 double walled tents. I can put both up in the rain/snow and not get anything in it. Ok. They are both 4 season tents and the poles go on the outside of the fly.
I love my tent. Plus if it's raining I can keep my inner tent in its stuff sack, set up my rain fly then set up the inner tent from inside the rain fly. It's not too hard. I also agree about the place to live. Plus I have a dog that always comes with me and she needs to be with me in the tent. Don't think that would work with a hammock. But I would really love to try a hammock someday
I purchased a new tent this season. After weeks of research I spent 100$ on a 2 person tent by featherstone. My average set up time for a two wall free standing system with a nice bathtub takes about 4 mins at 5 lbs. . It also has an option for UL Just using the fly and the 1 piece pole system about 3 lbs. Been out with this tent over 20 nights and I loooooove it. I use a klymit static pad and a down alternative no name sleeping bag. Use my clothes for a pillow and I have yet to have a bad experience in that system for close to 3 months. I spent 1 night in my tried and true hammock and wanted my tent so bad I drove home to get it the next day. Haha. I like hammocks but always sleep better in a tent. But that's just me.
Double-wall with tent deigned to be pitched fly first is very quick/easy. Dan Durston x-mid.
There are plenty of double wall tents that are designed so the outer is set up first then the inner is attached by clips or straps inside.
Some tents, like the Hyke & Byke Zion, can be set up with the rain fly first.
One cool thing about the tiger wall by big Agness is that you can setup the rain fly first, than go inside and setup the tent!
Tent, all in! Lighter, more protected from rain... LoL, I tried that pad...it did not work for me. I like the Thermarest pads and the sea to summit pillow. Super comfy for me.
Hey Dan, have you ever looked into Exped? i never see many hikers talking about the company, and their sleeping pads and pillows are hands down the best I have ever used.
1.I’m a side sleeper 2. I have a leg condition exacerbated by pressure on my back side. Both of these make anything more than a brief nap in a hammock quite uncomfortable, so easy choice for me.
Just watched Kyles new video (yes before yours cuz he's better😂) and the cameo was awesome 👍
Just a FYI, that MSR tent you mentioned in the other guys video is designed to have the ability to attach the rain flyer before the tent. I owned that tent and love that design. However I think most of the tent won't work that way.
By the way, any suggestions for backpacking route in southeast Wisconsin?
You should never use hammocks...there, I said it...publicly...and I don't even care!
When hiking in the arboreal hilly NE, the hammock leaves you with way more site possibilities. I have found the campsite/lean to be crowded when, say, Holiday weekend backpacking. The farther out one goes, the better a hammock is to be able to pitch a site practically anywhere.
I don't have one yet, but the Haven Tents looks look really good to me.
S does the Tentsile UNA, but you need 3 suspension points instead of 2.
I love the idea of a hammock, but after an incident where we needed to take a zero to do repairs to gear and a storm hit, the tents were a god's send.
I just made the switch from hammock to tent, gonna give it a shot. Rocking out the Lanshan 2 on a budget buy, have you ever tried its big brother the Duplex?
I have the duplex and really like it, I used to have a msr hubba hubba. So it was huge weight savings.