Like the subject line says... I have access to two tents, and I'm trying to decide which one to take. I'm sure they are plenty of people who have way more experience than I do with this kind of thing... so I thought I'd ask. (Plus my wife said I should ask.)
I've done fully supported tours with tents, but a semi was carrying the tent, so the big tent was an obvious choice.
I've done solo tours, but they were credit card tours and I stayed in a hotel at nights.
This summer I want to do some short tours with a tent. (longest would be 6 days, between Washington DC and Pittsburgh, PA... gee... I wonder were I am going?)
The choices are...
The Eureka Solitaire,
weighing in at 3lbs, 4oz
with a floor space of 96" x 32"
and a max height of 28"
- not free standing
- can get maybe one or two panniers in with me
- Actually pretty comfortable
- Smaller packed size
OR
The REI Half Dome 2
weighing in at 5lbs, 10oz
with a floor space of 88" x 52"
and a max height of 40"
- free standing
- can get everything but the bike in with me
- I kind of have to lie diagonal
- larger pack size
It's one of these... I know someone is going to tell me I need to get a tarp, or a hammock, or a tarp hammock... I'd love to try those someday. But for this summer, it's one of these. I have them both already...
So... lighter and smaller? Or heavier and roomier?
Since these are short tours, should weather forecast play into my decision?
Just wanted to see if there was any sage advice.
Thanks!!!