I have tried to stuff everything into two front bags which is possible but it means I have to stay way too organized to get everything to fit in and it is much too tight. I would rather simply distribute everything loosely over four bags. Plus, I think the weight distribution is better that way. Regarding the tent debate, I use the cylindrical tent bag and strap it to the top of the rear rack. In case of rain, I have a cover to keep the tent dry. Really, it just boils down to "different strokes for different folks."