Best camping tent accessories according to redditors
We found 323 Reddit comments discussing the best camping tent accessories. We ranked the 180 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 323 Reddit comments discussing the best camping tent accessories. We ranked the 180 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
Okay, I got this.
G4Free 40L backpack - $18.99
Paria Sanctuary Sil Tarp - $79.99
Polycro ground sheet - $7.98
Sleep pad - $16.79
Down throw - $31.95
Ultralight, summer set up straight from Amazon for about $150.
edit: oops, you said no tarp. You could add the bug net for $65 and be at ~210 for an ultralight, modular set up. Could also subtract the polycro sheet and save a few bucks if you buy the inner net.
If you don't want to go the DIY route or the compromise route (Something like the Kelty Cosmic Down), you could get a synthetic quilte like the EE Prodigy
Grand total: $504/85.1 oz
Alternatively, go full Jardine!
Throw in the sea to summit bug net and polycro from above and a lot of free time, and you'll have just gained some serious trail cred showing up in home made gear!
Not bad!
You could save a few more bucks with a flat tarp like Sanctuary SilTarp from Amazon.
1.5 lb, two-person net tent - $40
1 lb, 8x10 tarp with guylines and stakes - $80
Total - $120 and 2.5 lbs for a non-free standing setup (need hiking poles). Enjoy!
I recently bought a Chinese knock-off of the Big Agnes fly creek UL2 which normally goes for $250plus, from Aliexpress - called the Naturehike NH15T002-T, for $100 including shipping. I got the more expensive grey one due to it's supposed higher rain tolerance. I've used it a few times, in pretty ideal conditions but I'm really impressed with the quality of it. It came with real nice kinda Y-shaped stakes, it's own ground sheet and weighs 1.24 kg / 2.8 lbs (advertised weight). I haven't weighed it myself, but it's pretty bloody light. I haven't seen how it'll hold up in the wind/rain yet, but with mindful set-up I personally would have no qualms about using it in such conditions. I personally thought it was a risk to get, but I've been nothing but impressed by it so far.
EDIT: Oh, and just to say, I've tested it's two-person dimensions by going on some overnights with my partner. Plenty of room for two people - for reference I'm 5ft9, ~180 lbs and she's 5ft5, ~120 lbs. Also a small vestibule big enough for two packs (we had 1 ~60L and 1 ~40L pack).
Doing a week long trip in glacier national park in a couple of weeks. A friend is joining us last minute who is going to use our smaller quarterdome tent. That leaves me with a 20+ year old Eureka timberline. It's a great tent for car camping and short overnights but way heavier than I want for longer distance hiking.
On such short notice I was considering a Paria Outdoors tarp tent:
https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B01E6454HO/
However it'd be the first tarp tent for me and even with the inner mesh net they sell my girlfriend is freaking out that the tent will blow away or somehow magically attract bears.
Is there another model tent out there under $200 I could get quickly? Or am I better off trying to convince my girlfriend that tarp tents are fine and this is the one to get?
I think shes worried about being exposed to the elements and not having any privacy within the group while using this tent.
Honestly, I would just save up your money and get something that is silnylon or silpoly. 25 oz for a tarp is really heavy. Look into Etowah Outfitters and maybe warbonnet (I think they have one ground tarp). The price will be higher, but if you could get a more packable, lighter tarp for $100-130 it'll be worth it IMO
Edit: here are some good alternatives, keeping price in mind:
Sanctuary SilTarp 10 x 8: https://www.amazon.com/dpB01E6454HOref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_n2-6xbP8MYM51
Same weight, cheaper: Equinox Egret Tarps (8 x 10-Feet) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00205GHZU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_93-6xb309YGQT
I got this from amazon and it holds up well, although it's heavy as hell so I only car camp with it.
Check out r/hammockcamping as well. They can definitely offer some good suggestions.
You might be best off getting a set of poles that are usually designed for supporting tipi/pyramid tents as they'll be very strong and potentially very light/packable.
I did a quick search on Amazon and these poles might just be perfect for you. They're just slightly out of your budget, but I think you get a ton of adjustability and pretty decent quality for your money.
https://www.amazon.com/Paria-Outdoor-Products-Adjustable-Poles/dp/B01MDJKV0E/ref=sr_1_15?keywords=pyramid+tent+pole&qid=1557232333&s=gateway&sr=8-15
what is your main goal here? Do you need a cot? or are you looking at this saying comfortable, and offers protection? You could get a cot and pretty decent tent for that price. That thing is 25 lbs. My 8 person tent weighs the same and it's humongous. Depending how tall you are, you can get a pretty decent cot for $50, and a really nice tent for $120. it'd probably even be lighter, and just more practical. You could go this route. I think even this, a cot, plus a sizable tarp would probably be plenty of shelter, or orrrr strap this on top of a cot.
Bear Butt makes a cheap and reasonably good diamond configuration tarp that should work for you. Two of my friends use it happily.
I own a few that I am more or less happy with. The 3mx3m from DD is a popular choice and shows up in quite a few YT videos. The Bushcraft USA storefront tarp is on order, and it shows up in more than a few YT videos. I also have owned the Yukon Outfitter walkabout, the Aqua Quest guide, and the Paria Siltarp. One of my more frequent hiking/bushcraft partners uses an SJK Satellite Tarp and she is very happy with it.
If you have access to a sewing machine, DIY is also an option. A tarp is pretty easy to sew, though I found the tieout reinforcements a little tricky at first--just practice a bit on some scraps. Ripstop By The Roll is a great source for fabric and other materials, as is /r/myog.
So I have been working on my totem since the lineup dropped. All put together and fully extended its 9 ft but collapsed it’s about 3. I used this telescoping pole and it’s absolutely perfect for the job. Not sure how easy it will be to get it in though!
I'm thinking a silnylon tarp (maybe something like this?) https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B0763SQJL4/ for the top.
For the ground sheet I'm renovating my house and have a lot of 6 mil polyethylene sheeting (https://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-20-ft-x-100-ft-Clear-6-mil-Plastic-Sheeting-CFHD0620C/204711640 or similar) around so I figured I could just cut maybe 6x8 feet of that out and be good. I just want to keep my bag/pad and any gear inside the shelter off wet ground.
I've found better tarp options on amazon but this tarp is about half the cost and about half the weight. Set it up on the ground with a pair of cheap trekking poles. If you need bug protection you could grab a net tent off amazon for 10-15 bucks; use it as-is or cut it up to use as a perimeter netting.
This type of setup is less than two pounds packed weight and still less than the solitaire, more living space, better ventilation. You can sit up and cook under it. Sleeps two if you're netting is large enough...
Appreciate it! This setup was pieced together from a few items but the principle is fairly simple...
You want to make an A Frame configuration using a couple tarp poles and then use cord for tying out the corners with ground stakes.
This is what I used:
Tarp Poles
Tarp
Just to throw an oft-repeated comparison out there, if hammock coverage is your goal than the Yukon Outfitters Walkabout is 11'10" x 9'4". It has fewer guyout points than the Kelty as it is an asym tarp meant specifically for hammock usage. However, it has an integrated ridgeline seam and weighs 10 ounces less than the 9' Kelty and 22 ounces less than the 12' Kelty. It's only $40, but it shows up on Woot now and again for around $20 (which is where and when I last bought one). The Bear Butt is very similar... suspiciously similar, but only $30. If weight and packed size are your concern, this is a small additional outlay.
If you want a flat tarp for non-hammocking purposes the Kelty is an excellent deal. There are lighter options out there for cheap, but not as cheap as this... At the moment. Sanctuary or Bear Paw Designs are usually at the bottom of the price ladder and will be significantly lighter and pack smaller at around a $70-$80 price point.
I'm just pointing out that the Noah's Tarp may very quickly become an intermediary purchase for people once they realize that lighter/better options are out there and financially within reach, and this one sits in a tote in the basement forever thereafter.
If you don't care about the weight, jump on this deal. Bet you it won't last.
OP mentioned in a cross post that he's going to be doing the Nootka Island trail.
I think you'll be fine to tarp, the weather is only going to be coming from one obvious direction. The only thing I'd be concerned about is polycro as the tarp material, you might get some pretty good winds as you'll be exposed to the Pacific. That being said it could very well be calm the entire trip. If you do not think the tarp will be ok in high winds it would be worth it to take your tent for the peace of mind.
For sure print out a tide chart. You'd probably be fine without but it's so little weight and will help you make good decisions. If you're beach camping you should be able to tell where the previous high tide was and can use that + the tide chart to estimate where the tide will come up to and use that to prevent yourself from having to move camp in the night.
If I were you I would leave the daypack behind on this trip. If you do some exploring from camp just take your Exos and clip the hip belt behind you. You may also want some longer cordage, I don't think that Nootka has bear caches so you'll have to hang your food. Something like https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B078TPYMZY?th=1&psc=1 might be an option. Make sure to read up on how to deal with wolves if you're not familiar.
This was my packlist for the North Coast/Cape Scott trail earlier this year https://lighterpack.com/r/29ruyq.
I'm just getting into tarps myself and found these two on amazon prime:
Silpoly: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B004RVHBLO
Silnylon: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01BFLREUQ
They're both about the same size. According to this guide silnylon stretches when wet but is lighter and stronger when new than silpoly, but silnylon loses strength when wet and over time due to UV rays. So silpoly is a bit heavier but lasts longer and is stronger over its life.
I'm probably going to pick the silpoly one, but both seem to be a better choice than the MEC tarp.
Are all of these recommended tarps really super awesome or is this just a case of people being elitist about their brand name equipment?
I've used this in numerous all out lightning thunderstorms and been perfectly dry, for $30.
https://www.amazon.com/UST-WG01613-BRK-Base-Hex-Tarp/dp/B00FB7XYXM
Not OP, but I had a chill gorilla tarp and it was fine until I wanted to use two hammocks with a spreader bar. Bought this one and it's actually bigger, lighter, and cheaper than the chill gorilla.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06XRT1QWB
I replaced the paracord with some dyneema to keep the weight down further. It came with some of the lightest stakes I own and a fairly light stuff sack. I added in some shock cord on the guy lines per Shug's tarp video and made a continuous ridgeline per the video by Derek Hansen.
https://youtu.be/C-IkTg4z6UY
https://youtu.be/4GQPY5BuyPI?t=9m12s
That is a mesh/net tent I got from Amazon that I really like. I'm working on a video for it that I'll hopefully have up soon. You can see some of it at the end of this video on the Cumberland Trail where I slept in it without a tarp and it was amazing!
Here is a direct link to the tent on [Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G86URIY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
The tent is a knock off of the MSR Mesh House tent but I like this one better because it has a huge side door along with the door on the frame side. I got it for about $43 and I see it's now basically $60.
The Noah's Tarp 16 foot seems like a good choice. For a tarp that size it's a good price at just under $90. Lots of tie out points if you need them. Since you're car camping the weight shouldn't be an issue.
I bought a 12 foot a while back for a similar purpose and it's been really great and totally waterproof so far.
Wow.
If you’re willing to leap decades ahead, join r/ultralight where these are all common ideas just using far more ‘modern’ and lighter materials
Why canvas and not silnylon? For $90, less than 2 lbs, and 10x12’ you can get a simple, starter one that is easily rigged in trees or with trekking poles. Sanctuary SilTarp - Ultralight and Waterproof Ripstop Silnylon Rain Shelter Tarp, ... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XJ7322N/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_g4zmDb4M4WFQ5
I’ve many heavy HF silver tarps. They last a long time.... few years covering the go kart with southern exposure.
Netting. Like this https://mountainlaureldesigns.com/product/mld-pyramid-innernets/ but far cheaper, no? If you search, you will find something like this .... US $9.72 23％ Off | Ultralight Bug Net Hammock Tent Mosquito Outdoor Backyard Hiking Backpacking Travel Camping Tent Hamac Rede Hamaca Hangmat
https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/cFHOexTK
Knife? Just a single 3” lockblade for my backpacking. (EDC is a fat Victorinox.)
For sleeping bags in winter, just layer a down bag and a down quilt, add a vapor barrier liner inside, and many pads below. If you want DIY & cheap for the latter see https://www.slideshare.net/mobile/sweerek/diy-sleeping-pad-eps-accordian-27mar15
Or check out https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-sleeping-bag-down-cold-weather
Shifting from bushcrafter to UL is a big change in gear. Best book I know & recommend to my Scouts is... https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Hikers-Gear-Guide-Second/dp/1426217846/. Only $10 ish
I’m from MN. Love winter camping.
There's two routes you can go. The all together route, or you could do what I did. I got a 15% discount on gotyourgear on an ENO junglenest which got it down to about $73, and either buy, This which is just a tad short, but with enough sag 10ft should get all your hammock within it. I opted to sew my own tarp because I wanted a much larger one for sheltering two hammocks and keep my gear protected. Pretty good prices on silnylon. And Here are some simple [guides] (https://diygearsupply.com/diy-guides/tarps/) to make one on your own. For straps people opt for a shorter polyester webbing, coupled with whoopie slings. Atlas Straps are the easy way out if you don't want to modify your hammock, personally i'm happy with using all stock on my system, tried whoopies not a fan. I'm 6'2", singlenest will fit you perfectly, make sure to have plenty of sag when hanging your hammock, it may look wrong, but that how you achieve a flat lay. So either route you go, it basically boils down to if you want more customization with your equipment, or want something premade.
Second. It definitely sounds like a tarp.
There a few varieties of tarps:
I was happy with my DIY shade solution this year. I bought a 13'x20' of aluminet with taped edges and grommets every two feet from Gothic Arch Greenhouses. I tied one long edge to a camper and elevated the other half of it with three Kelty adjustable poles, staked down with paracord tied to rebar.
The aluminet cooled things off enough that people were able to sleep in tents beneath it well into the afternoon (!). By the end of the week, the aluminet sagged enough that I had to stick a pole in the center, so I'm going to need to figure out a better way to keep it taut longer next year. Larger sheets of aluminet wouldn't work very well with this setup without several poles propping up the interior.
The total cost was around $250, and it packs down very efficiently. I also strung solar-powered fairy lights all around it, which provided a nice, gentle ambiance through the night.
For 8x10 silnylon 20d https://www.shop.backpackingadventuregear.com/Special-8x10-Silnylon-Tarp-Special-8x10-silnylon-tarp.htm
For 8x8 or 11x 6.5 hex silpoly 20d https://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Vitals-Ultralight-Hammock-Shelter/dp/B01N5PCZH4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=silpoly%2Btarp%2Bultralight&qid=1565701251&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1&psc=1
For 30d silnylon in many sizes https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B0763SQJL4/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=silpoly+tarp+ultralight&qid=1565701477&s=gateway&sr=8-5
For 20d larger silpoly tarps https://www.warbonnetoutdoors.com/tarps/
All but the last under 100usd
I use this type of stake with my big tent while car camping.
I'll probably get some rebar stakes eventually.
If that isn't enough, then sand or snow stakes are probably the way to go.
You can't get a full setup for $100. And basically that is because you need a rain fly and bugnet along with the hammock.
If I'm right, a Bear Butt hammock comes with suspension system and wll run you $30. I have a Honest Outfitters setup, which is basically the same. I only mention Bearbutt because so many people here talk about that. The bugnet should go for $30 as well. https://www.amazon.com/KING-OUTFITTERS-Diagonal-SECURITY-Mosquitoes/dp/B06XCRYKT5/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1525302662&sr=8-5&keywords=hammock+bugnet&dpID=412ao4NG4bL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch
That's what I have.
And the tarp. Well that can be very pricy if you worry about weight. Silnylon is what to go for here but they are costly from what I could tell.
I'll be buying a new tarp soon enough, for now I have a $45 fairly heavy one because I had winter in mind. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HO15DGS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Then there is the insulation. An underquilt is something you may want, but that all depends on where you camp. I mean, how cold will it get at night. Cold butt syndrome is not something you want to deal with.
But a UQ can run you a good $70 for a 40 degree one. Let alone the ones for colder weather.
So, Hammock, bugnet, tarp and perhaps underquilt. With that, you should be good for summer camping to start you off. So for the $100 you can camp, but aren't insulated. I hope this helps you a little.
Mind you, I am not an expert. I only started late last year with hammocks. I'm just telling you what I did. Which, I'm afraid is not lightweight compared to the $400 setups.
Edit, my hammock https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N7DX0J7/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You sound like you approach it all the same way I do.
I have the small geertop one from your link, it packs up to the size of an apple. It's a good ground sheet just slightly larger than my pad. Even the large one would make for a decent tarp if it weren't so small.
I've got this one with its incredibly stupid name across one corner, and I like it just fine. Water beads off of it, it has decent tie outs that haven't torn yet. Yet, of course.
I think hikers prefer silnylon simply for its weight, plain and simple.
The way I look at it with a bushcraft perspective is: it's going to eventually get fucked up by your own fault in some regard while you're out, and that'd really bum ya out with a $120 tarp. It wouldn't bum ya out with an 8 dollar crunchy poly tarp, but having to deal with one in the first place is a bummer in and of itself.
To me, a 40 dollar tarp is the perfect balance of risk and reward.
Overall, the setup will be not only cheaper but more comfortable and durable than ENO and Kammock (I recommended Kammock because I like their fabric more than ENO but have the same shortcomings in terms of price, size and weight).
In that case maybe something like
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01HO15DGS/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519355521&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=free+soldier+tarp&dpPl=1&dpID=41YpCmk5ToL&ref=plSrch#
I own this but can’t vouch for it just yet. I got it for Xmas and haven’t had the chance to use it yet sadly. It seems to be of a good quality build. It’s definitely not as lightweight as some of the other options out there though.
Something else to consider is getting a tarp and a couple of extendable poles. I got these when they were on sale for $25 (Amazon Link). Setup is fairly easy and just have to use guy ropes on each corner to hold it down, but takes up significantly less space than the 10x10 folding one. I usually attach one side to my roof rack, but I have 4 poles so I can move it around and make it stand alone. All-in was just under $100 so about the same cost as a bigger canopy.
This is essentially the same thing.
http://www.amazon.com/Kelty-41981003-Adjustable-Tarp-Pole/dp/B001M0NVGC
Might be available on Amazon.ca
You will need two of them I think at minimum. Do some research on how to rig a tarp with poles, and you will need to practice some to get it down. It is a little bit of art and science. I am still learning, but there are a ton of videos and guides to use for reference.
The forecast called for it to be rainy with a chance of thunderstorms, so I wanted to make sure I had a place where I could cook with my stove and sit outside of my tent that was dry and out of the rain. It was basically a front porch.
I also just wanted to see how it went up, that was the first time I'd ever set up a tarp. I was given a hammock as a gift for my birthday and eventually that tarp will be used as part of a hammock-camping set-up once I get an under quilt so I wanted to familiarize myself with it. :)
Edit: Some things about the tarp, in case anyone is interested. The tarp weighs in at 13.5oz, which is pretty good for a budget tarp. Once you add the stakes its probably closer to a pound, but still not bad considering. It also has a reflective coating on the inside so It can be used as an emergency blanket in a pinch or used to signal if you're really desperate. All in all its an awesome bit of kit, one of my favorites considering it cost ~$30.
Remote beach and backpacking? Sorry man, either using trees at the edge of the beach, or going-to-ground is going to be a good bet. For car camping however, you have lots of options:
Dude. I'd just get this tent, it comes with built-in mosquito netting.
Not perfectly ultralight, but I found this on Amazon too.
https://www.amazon.com/Hikingworld-Lightweight-Camping-Person-Anti-Mosquito/dp/B01G86URIY/ref=pd_sim_468_32?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7ZGJ1HEHB1WJ9V829EBE
Stupid cheap Amazon ultralight tarp/groundsheet
Aqua Quest Guide Sil Tarp - 100% Waterproof & Ultralight RipStop Nylon Material - 10 x 7 ft Medium / Small - Compact, Versatile, Durable Backpacking Tarpaulin - Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004RVHBLO/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_5b1Mxb8MG9BFV
Paria tarp is $65-80, depending on which shape you get. These are good quality budget options. The hex tarp versions are designed for hammocks.
https://www.pariaoutdoorproducts.com/collections/camping-tents-backpacking-tent/products/silnylon-tarp-sanctuary-siltarp?variant=203901468692
Also available on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B0763SQJL4/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=paria%2Btarp&qid=1557601375&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1&psc=1
I bought 2 sets of these: https://www.amazon.com/Green-Elephant-Telescoping-Tarp-Poles/dp/B072K1B91Q
And also this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004W3JAVQ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_image
Along with these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B075CMSMQY?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
I feel like strapping it to my roof rack and using the adjustable poles, one set halfway along the length and the other 2 at the end will give me many configurations. I can raise it high and then low for shade when sleeping inside the vehicle. A 20' long tarp should also allow me to stake it to the ground and run the tarp up and over my vehicle like a cacoon and still extend 10' or so. My roof rack should allow airflow between the tarp and vehicle kinda like a palapa works. Haven't used it yet, but seems like the most flexible way of having many configurations while storing very easily.
Thanks for posting. Great setup, especially the DIY custom sun shade with afforadable amazon poles Bravo!
I use this one which is $14.99, durable, and weighs 3oz
Geertop 1 Person Ultralight Waterproof Tent Tarp Footprint Ground Sheet Mat, for Camping, Hiking, Picnic (4 Sizes) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D8E3HCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_7WqhDb8Z97RSB
So it's mostly custom, actually!
The roof basket is this one.
The canopy is just a 6'x8' generic tarp I picked up at a surplus store. The mounting hardware is an aluminum L bracket from Lowes with U-bolts securing it to the basket. Drilled holes in the bracket that lined up with the tarp grommets, then bought some nuts and bolts to secure the tarp to the bracket.
After that, I picked up these adjustable poles, some guy-line, and stakes to complete the setup! Takes maybe 5-10 minutes to set up. While not as elegant as an actual retractable awning you can buy, it was a fraction of the cost. And fun to make!
Somebody posted this a while back. Great deal. 8x10 would be good for two people.
Other, maybe better options
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E6454HO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fmWyzbB8AX8A0
http://bushcraftoutfitters.com/bco-tarps/10x10/
I just pulled the trigger on this as well. I haven't had a chance to even set mine up yet, but I'm super excited.
I went with this:
http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-BASE-Orange/dp/B00FB7XYRS/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1420472921&sr=8-5&keywords=tarp+tent
I like it because I can use it to make a floor if I want, or just a really huge roof if I don't need a floor. The only downside is my tent has zippers and keeps my dog in the tent, not sure how I will manage that situation when I use this new tarp. I'm thinking the dog will just stay home.
http://amzn.com/B009R9FTW4
I got my set up and it's within your budget.
Hammock:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00UFIBVHI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Straps:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B012M6FXUQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Tarp:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00FB7XYRS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://imgur.com/a/3CGsT
Get yourselves an air pad, sleeping mat or underquilt so you don’t end up freezing in the middle of the night since the sleeping bag will compress on the side you’re laying causing you to have no insulation, which means you’ll feel the cold. I would also suggest getting a tarp to give you an extra layer of protection from possible rain and wind, the latter being a multiplying factor in the cold.
You can go cheap with something like this from amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XRT1QWB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nOydAb2F3M6AR
There are cheaper options as well if you search for hammock tarps on amazon. Just remember the length of your hammock when you’re laying in it, you’ll want adequate coverage.
If you're on a budget, you could look into this. I picked one up a a few months back, though I haven't had the chance to try it out yet.
Tent Spikes!!!. Can't go camping without 'em! (I know...lame).
It ain't sushi but I will be fishing!!!
This is my budget setup. I have been a ground dweller for years and always just had a Grand Trunk double hammock for lounging around. Over the last couple years I have found myself just sleeping in the hammock and throwing a blue tarp over in rainy weather. I have committed to sleeping in the hammock now so have begun building a hammock based sleep system. I found this Grand Trunk Skeeter Beeter Pro (https://www.grandtrunk.com/collections/hammocks-1/products/skeeter-beeter-pro) for 25.00 on Craigslist and picked up a cheap tarp on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XRT1QWB/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1).
I have replaced the rope suspension with tubular webbing and two carabiners on each end for a variable adjustable suspension. I haven't seen Shug lock the suspension quite like this but I find it eliminates the need for a stopper knot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vEXC_1aaxc
I will be trying out the Ridgeline that Shug suggests next time I hang.
Overall I have about 80.00 into the setup and I don't have any complaints.
There's this on Amazon for only US$70. It's 10' x 7' though
I use these. Live in Arizona and most of the ground I camp on is pretty hard. I've bashed them with rocks many times and so far haven't had any failures.
edit: Just noticed that they only seem to have the XL size for sale at that link right now. The ones I got were the regular size.
I bought an 8'x10' $80 sil-nylon tarp on amazon (https://amzn.to/2HbQ0z7) that I use with my bivy when I think there's going to be rain. My OR Alpine bivy is awesome, but getting in and out of one (and unpacking/dressing) just standing there in the rain is absolute hell.
The amount of people you can put underneath it depends a bit on how horrible the weather is. If it's not windy you can pitch it rather horizontal and then you could put a banquet underneath. But if it's blowing hard then you need to put one end down to keep the rain from coming in sideways and that reduces the overhead size. If it's whipping around super nasty you need to stack everything down and then it's no bigger than a small a-frame tent. But having something spacious in terrible weather is basically expedition gear so no surprise there.
There are some neat tarp pitches you can do, depending on the size, weather, and trees/poles: https://sectionhiker.com/square-tarp-pitches/
I've used it once in patient land to keep some rain off a dude while packaging, and when backpacking I dig it because short rain storms can just turn into a break where you spend 5 minutes popping the tarp up, having lunch, and waiting it out nice and dry.
So the poles themselves are actually a little larger/heavier (1.6 pounds) than I realized when I ordered, but I still think they will fit in our luggage okay and according to all the reviews saying these are the best poles out there, will hopefully be worth it. These are the poles: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001M0NVGC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This is the shade tarp: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012FCG2Y8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Cool!
There's also some middle-ground. Some companies that make much more reasonably priced rainflies. I have not tried them though, so I can't personally say if they're any good. But I bet they're better than a simple tarp. So you don't have to go all or nothing. :)
http://www.amazon.com/Yukon-Outfitters-Walkabout-Rainfly-Hammock/dp/B00MGYU38W
http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-BASE-Orange/dp/B00FB7XYRS
If you are looking at a hammock setup, I wouldn't go for what you have listed, it's pretty heavy and you will move on from that quickly. I just built a modular hammock setup that comes in just a little over 2lbs for $200. It uses no hardware, just a becket hitch to attach the straps to the continuous loop. Don't know the name of the knot I use to tie up the tarp, but many can be used.
Hammock $30: Wide Netless Hammock from Dutchwaregear with continuous loops and ridgeline
Tarp $80: Hexagon Siltarp from Amazon
Bugnet $57: Bottom entry bugnet from dutchwaregear
Suspension $25 UHMWPE Straps from dutchwaregear
The only additional things you need is an underquilt/pad and a quilt/sleeping bag.
If you are trying to sleep two people. I would get two hammocks, maybe a bigger tarp, and dutchwaregear offers a double bugnet. Sleeping two people in one hammock all night is not going to be comfy.
Ok fair point. I'm pretty much guessing on the bear stuff, I've never had to deal with it. How's this for a line?
https://www.amazon.com/LiteOutdoors-Guyline-Tensioner-Kit-Lightweight/dp/B078TPYMZY/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3I3I7LU1GB2GQ&keywords=dyneema%2Bcord&qid=1555263431&s=gateway&sprefix=dyneem%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-3&th=1&psc=1
Sorry didn't see that.
Still would recommend saving your pennies for one if you can, it will definitely save you money in the long run.
If that is completely out of the question, maybe buy a cheap light weight 10x10 tarp off of Amazon to pair with a more affordable tent.
I have this tarp and love it. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01GQFW5RS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_m-GHDb2GS3XKY
Yep, I was reading about the DIY down quilts and I may go that route. Right now i'm going to McGuyver a winter sleep system with my available resources before I start spending money. IDK if you've ever seen someone use a reflective tarp like UST hex tarps but it has the reflective properties like the emergency blankets. I have two of these and i'm going to see if I can use one as a rain fly that wraps around the top of the hammock and one that drapes the underside and covers it completely. I'm hoping to create a solid pocket of air to keep wind and temperatures out as well as get the reflective coating to keep in my own body heat. This is all just made up in my mind but if it works i'm going to pot it on this sub. The weight should just be 5lbs with everything and cost a 5th of the price.
oh, and thanks for letting me know the weight!
Now I'm looking at this tarp because I can get prime shipping on it and hopefully two day shipping. Any thoughts?
I bought the footprint with my tent, used it once, and it's sat in my closet ever since. Might come in handy if you're camping on rocky surfaces where the tent could get damaged, but here in Florida is basically sand/grass and I'm not concerned.
The stakes it comes with are not good, get something skookum like these that will hold the tent in high winds if a storm ever blows through.
Best guy line I’ve found so far.
I've been using this tarp with an eno single for several months now. Been pretty happy with it so far.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FB7XYRS/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apip_jX2sj4MWh1cmL
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You could always try a Kelty noahs tarp.
Here
There are a few different sizes.
Tarp:
Option 1: https://www.amazon.com/Sanctuary-SilTarp-Ultralight-Waterproof-Backpacking/dp/B06XJ7322N/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1538600945&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=ul%2Btarp&th=1&psc=1
Option 2 (more durable): https://www.amazon.com/DD-Tarp-3m-Olive-Green/dp/B005FPN7GE/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601289&sr=1-3&keywords=dd+tarp
Bug net: https://www.amazon.com/Breeze-Mesh-Tent-Ultralight-Backpacking/dp/B01NA9BU4Q/ref=pd_bxgy_468_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01NA9BU4Q&pd_rd_r=a541965e-c750-11e8-83ba-35492fd40af5&pd_rd_w=5VWOY&pd_rd_wg=3uCes&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3f9889ac-6c45-46e8-b515-3af650557207&pf_rd_r=X7JJ3Y8J81XVAAR36D9Y&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=X7JJ3Y8J81XVAAR36D9Y
Quilt: http://www.hammockgear.com/burrow-econ-40/ (get a warmer one if you need it)
Sleeping pad: https://www.amazon.com/Therm-Rest-Original-Ultralight-Camping/dp/B00453NA1E/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601159&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=thermarest+zlite+sol&psc=1
You will need trekking poles for the tarp/tent or save a few bucks and find a couple of sticks when you get there!
Trekking poles: https://www.amazon.com/BAFX-Products-Hiking-Walking-Trekking/dp/B007YT854S/ref=sr_1_3_acs_ac_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1538601222&sr=1-3-acs&keywords=trekking+poles
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Pack: https://www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-granite-gear-crown-x60
I have the Paria Sanctuary and I love it! Its your basic 8x10, no-frills tarp. It's big enough for me and my SO w/ some gear and it has the the added benefit of being super cheap ($79) but also good quality. Their website says that they should have some more back in stock at the end of the month, here's the page
Also: I agree that you're likely to find 13x13 too big unless you're tarping with 3+ people.
UST base hex. Light, extremely durable and waterproof.
The tarp is the Slumberjack Roadhouse Tarp. I didn't have any inclement weather so I can't say how well it would do; this was my first time setting it up and learning to use it.
It took about 5 mins to setup and it packs up pretty conveniently. The tent poles it comes with were heavy so I ditched those for some Ridge Outdoor Adjustable Tarp Poles and they're much lighter.
That is pretty sweet! I'm trying to find siltarp in Canada or places that sell it here in Canada dollars so I don't have to pay a fortune for customs but I'm having a hard time.
Edit: Found this https://www.amazon.ca/Aqua-Quest-Guide-Medium-Green/dp/B004RVHBLO. Not sure if I can do better or not. Don't know much about siltarps yet.
for low to mid price range....I love coleman tents for their waterproofness from the factory.
Some require sealing of the seams for complete waterproofness, but the last 2 I have owned havent. They have been thru some very severe rain storms and only ended up with few drops in the tents and that's after 15-20 uses. They are nothing fancy and only really good when its above 40 degrees, however for the price you cant go wrong.
http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-17-Foot-10-Foot-8-Person-Modified/dp/B000W7BHJY
That is our current one, got on an amazon/slickdeal sale for $79 shipped
The older one is 10.5x10.5' and paid about the same. The older one we have taken to multiple music festivals where dozens of tents were uprooted and blew away, ez ups snapped, etc from severe rain storms and it survived and was relatively dry inside each time.
Gotta get the 10" long, heavy duty tent stakes for whatever tent you get and severe storms.
http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-10-Inch-Steel-Tent-Stakes/dp/B002HU086C/
You can look at UST or Eastern Ridge Tarp as decent budget options.
https://www.amazon.com/UST-Tube-Camping-Shelter-Orange/dp/B00FB7XYRS
And if you can go a little higher to 60 bucks, check out the Chill Gorilla Pro-tent tarp or the costlier Kelty Noah.
I’ve had really good luck with these, they are wonderful and are super easy to set up.
TNH Outdoors 10X Aluminum Tri-Beam Tent Stakes and Bag - Made for Camping - Support A Start Up https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D2VHN5I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_so2LAbZXR0AM2
See if you can find ripstop silnylon in a good camo print like multicam, Cadpat, , MARPAT, flecktarn. Good for stealth camping !
Also check out this groundsheet on Amazon.ca
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01D8E3HCW/
20D Single side coated silicon 360T Nylon Fabric
About 200cm square for $27 is a good price. I'm thinking of getting one for a tarp and just sew in more tarp pullouts. Looks like a neutral tone earthy gray colour.
Yup, my tent is expensive. The reason it was expensive is because it can withstand all sorts of weather. I've rode through an inland hurricane in it and been bone dry.
For the love of all things holy, get some of these stakes for your canopy/EZup or something similar. In '14 there was a fairly big storm that rolled in Sunday night and I saw EZups literally flying across GA.
On that note, in the 3 years I've been to EF it's always rained at least once. None of the times ruined anything. One year it was small sprinkles on and off during the day and the other 2 times there where storms on the last night after almost all the acts where over. Mobby had to cut out like 5 minutes early and that's the only time I saw anything get cut short.
Also on this note, we're right by the lake. Therefore weather can be all sorts of crazy or unpredictable. It's really hard forecasting for the area and any forecast more than a few days out is liable to change.
So just plan for rain no matter what. Bring a nice rain shell jacket or a couple cheap walmart panchos. Also bring a few extra pairs of socks and undies as well as an extra shirt or two with another pants options. I even bring a second pair of shoes just in case mine get soaked. I also always set aside a package for the ride home on Monday. Usually has new shirt, shorts, socks, undies, sandals, and a Monster. Sucks driving 7 hours home in dirty grungy/wet clothes especially after 4 days of pushing your body to the limit.
http://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Survival-Technologies-BASE-Orange/dp/B00FB7XYRS/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1431121380&sr=1-3&keywords=chinook+tarp
Does anyone have this tarp? It's pretty damn cheap, but I don't want to buy it and discover it's crap.
I use a Kelty Noah's tarp 9' size. Usually with a hammock. It's spendy for a tarp but the catenary cut, multiple tie-outs and versatility make it worth the cost. It's plenty large for two, can be used on the ground or with a hammock, and can be hung in a hundred ways. It's light and easy to pack. I never carry trekking poles, and never have a problem finding a stick in my neck of the woods if the setup requires it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G86URIY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 + Tarp
IDK What sort of weather you'll be camping/hiking in, but this is a pretty basic list of gear that I would take if I were on a budget:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006JYHI24/?tag=ultrastuff-20
http://www.amazon.com/Suisse-Sport-Adventurer-Ultra-Compactable-Sleeping/dp/B001TR7QZA/ref=sr_1_3?m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1408072994&sr=1-3&keywords=ultralight
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FB7XYXM/?tag=ultrastuff-20
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002COCF3M/?tag=ultrastuff-20
That's a bag, tarp, hammock and sleeping bag. They all have great ratings and should get you through just about anything.
Me, personally, I carry my hammock, a wool blanket and my tarp from http://www.bushcraftoutfitters.com/ ( http://www.bushcraftoutfitters.com/Coyote-Tarp-10x10-tarp-10x10-coyote.htm ) in my army surplus bag. I also carry my stainless steel pot and cup, cordage, zip ties, leather gloves, folding saw, axe and knife with me when I'm out in the woods. I have a "space blanket" too.
My pack could be lighter for sure, but everything I have serves a purpose.
Whenever you decided you want to get into campinp/hiking/bushcraft/whatever, decided what you really need/want to have with you. Don't just jam random "camping" supplies in your bag. Take your time, research and pack carefully. Your back will thank you.