Could I get some opinions on the best lightweight pads and tents that aren't too expensive?
Could I get some opinions on the best lightweight pads and tents that aren't too expensive?
Do you want the best or the lightest or the least expensive??
In a perfect hiking world all three lol. I guess the most comfortable being affordable. I don't want to have it cost more than my tent and weigh me down.
You should really wait and ask this question on Monday morning, when most are back at work ( and hence on the internet ). At that juncture you will most likely get a gaggle of opinions.
To tide you over till then; http://www.tarptent.com/ ( most will say a good compromise, each will have his favorite, not perfect ( but what is ) )
I felt the same way you do now. After much research I went with a Thermarest NeoAir XLite mattress ($159.00 12 ozs) and a Tarptent Contrail tent ($199.00 21 ozs) Maybe a little pricey, but for the weight I couldn't resist.
Blackheart
I appreciate the timely responses. Any opinions on z-lite? And on nemo tents?
For the most part, younger hikers can use cheaper, thinner pads like the z-lite or a CCF from Wally World (<$20). As I've gotten older - and as a side-sleeper - I need a thicker pad for a comfortable night's sleep. Right now, I'm very happy with a NeoAir Trekker. In fact, I plan to get the new 25" wide Torso version in the near future. For a tent, I love my Tarptent Double Rainbow, but I'm seriously considering the Notch or the Moment DW.
some good info here too.
http://sectionhiker.com/sleeping-pad-r-values/
Thank you for being so informative
What worked for me (59yo 5'8" 150lbs) was a thermarest scout. If you compare it side by side with more expensive pads it holds up quite well in terms of weight vs insulation etc. As for tents I tried an inexpensive bivy style tent but it was just to small for my old bones. I spent the big bucks for a big Agnes copper spur ul1. Never looked back.
The Tarptent Rainbow is a spacious, and fairley light tent.
REI Stratus Pad is a nice sub-$100 inflatable sleeping pad. I've been very happy with mine so far, after upgrading from a ccf pad. For a tent, I found a TT Contrail for sale used here. Great tent and saved money.
Go afield with a good attitude, with respect for the wildlife you hunt, and the forest and field in which you walk. Immerse yourself in the outdoor experience. It will cleanse your soul.--Fred Bear
www.misadventuregear.com
Eureka Spitfire Solo tent and a Thermarest Prolite 3/4 pad. Total maybe $225? Good relatively lightweight conventional double-wall tent and pretty comfortable and inexpensive inflatable pad.
I can vouch for the Spitfire 1 as a very nice budget option. You can find one for about $100 and I like it better than most of the options that cost much more.
The Prolite is nice enough, but I use a NeoAir for the lighter weight, smaller packed size, and extra comfort. It depends on how tight the budget is, but pad and bag are where I am likely to spend more.
What about the closed cell foam types? Z-lite etc
Also what about the north face arches tent and msr Hubba?
I too typically choose my Spitfire over my BA most of the time. Really a very solid lightweight tent for the money....~$69.
Tridavis
I am thru hiking right now with a Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo and a z-lite 3/4 length pad. Combined weight is a little over 2lbs I believe. The Lunar Solo is a great, very light tent and runs at about 200 bucks now I think. Lots of hikers out here with more expensive tents that are also over a pound heavier. I like my z-lite too. It's not wonderfully comfortable by any means but I get enough sleep on it without a problem. The short size is lighter weight, and I just use my pack under my feet.
A super cheap and durable combo: Spitfire Solo plus a 3/4 lenght Ridgerest. A little over 3.5 lbs. May be able to get these under $100 on sale or clearance.