$50 Tent vs $600 Tent

[@KD-bk7gd]

FYI, the updated version 2.2 of this tent with the single layer that is separated with mesh to fix the condensation issue works like a total champ.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

kray kray neigh neigh That’s awesome to hear!

[@robscott5735]

This is true, I LOVE mine.

[@MrLolol55]

Thank you for letting us know! Might grab one for the coming season.

[@lilsteve68]

Got one haven't used yet. … trying to get back to my happy place - the outdoors was in a ditch pulling my self out ….. love and respect and thank you

[@andrechristodoulou9872]

No it doesn’t. Leaked on me in all four corners during moderate rain over the weekend. I was on the lost coast trail in humboldt/king range. 2.2 version. I attempted to seam seal and wAterproof the tent prior to camping too. It’s definitely good for camping in light rain or less. Great tent unless you’re dealing with moderate to heavy rai

[@ebaygoer8593]

The 2.2 version was my first backpacking tent. I used it on a couple trips in the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho. I thought the huge side vents were going to be a problem in colder conditions, but it turn out that you can stake them fairly close to the bathtub and that closes them down quite a bit. Temps went down into the 20's one night, and I was in a 20 degree bag... with a hat and gloves on, it wasn't too bad. One thing to note is the ridgeline on the 2.2 doesn't dip in the middle like the Trekker 2 does, so you have good headroom the whole length of the tent. It's also very roomy inside for one person. I had my pack inside with me, with tons of room to move about, get cleaned up, dressed, etc. I've since moved on to Lanshan 1P and 2P tents, but I still have the 2.2 to loan out.

[@Ethan-ke9og]

How does the lanshan compare for you? Why do you choose it over the 2.2?

[@TXMEDRGR]

I've been using my $25 Walmart two-person tent for almost ten years.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

TXMEDRGR Niiiice!

[@gulfrelay2249]

have a French Army tent from Major Surplus 32.00. seam sealer and spray, etc. 48 hrs. of rain later, just a bit damp. hey, it's 32.00.

[@bretthikez6567]

OZARK TRAIL SQUAD....bhahaahahahaha...i let my friends use my collection of old wal mart tents..they work good in snow that's for sure

[@MTBIKEXC]

what's it weigh?

[@Blueknight1960]

@@MTBIKEXC what does it matter, even if it weighed 2 lbs, it's a $25 tent and not $600.

[@dancordray8686]

Just an idea. I've set the front pole at a slight angle at the bottom away from the tent. This allowed me to use a small piece of cord to pull the slack in the front flap open slightly. That allowed more ventilation and cut down condensation on even this cheap tent.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Dan Cordray Brilliant idea! Thank you for sharing

[@elizabethd2916]

Hey Dixie thanks for the great review. I’m a new camper myself and this was one of the best reviews on KZbin I’ve seen. I really appreciate all the extra effort you went through in testing the tent. Also, you did a great job of explaining the differences between a $50 tent that works and a $600 tent that has a lot of extra features with very little weight. I hope that made sense. Anyway thanks again for the video.

[@kevinj8258]

Elizabeth D - completely agree with this comment. This was an outstanding review process.

[@dean_ov_az]

It must have been the use of the garden hose? lol

[@aristideregnier4883]

is this a paid comment...?

[@mrswratch5470]

Agreed!! 🥰

[@jakethiringer1698]

I have the River Country Products tent - I only used it once on an overnight trip in the Catskills up in New York but I really enjoyed it, found it easy to set up, and would definitely recommend it! That was my first overnight trip, and it was great, this channel played a big part in inspiring me to get into backpacking, so thanks!

[@rbailey294]

What a nice little seminar in what to look for in a backpacking tent, and how to test those things. Very helpful! Thanks so much!

[@latimerhoke914]

I started backpacking with a tarp and some bug netting, and then added more luxury by sewing a tyvek floor and a zipper into the bug netting...all pretty cheap. I had (have) friends with the Duplex, and gosh did it look nice. But my setup did work, even in winter when it was around 0F (and at that time of year, could ditch the bug netting). I kept dreaming about the Duplex, but since my stuff worked and I'm a giant cheapskate, I refused to pay for anything different. Then I added another human to my life (i.e. significant other), and my cheap and functional setup quickly revealed itself as "not worth the headache" with two people. While I was happy to practice my tarpology, my girlfriend was less than enthused with the limitations of our setup. We split the cost, and while it may sound insane, the $600 for a Duplex was actually worth it. The Duplex will last a LONG time. Let's say it lasts 200 nights for a thru-hike, though I suspect it'll be much longer (my friends' tent has lasted most of the AT, the whole CDT, and multiple other short adventures, all with two people and a dog), that's $3 per night for an AWESOME shelter. It's comfortable for two people and luxurious (but still light enough) for one person. I look at this Duplex purchase like our Vitamix purchase (I fixated on one of these bad boys for a few years, refusing to buy any other blender). The pricetag sounds insane, but over the life of the product, it turns out to be worth it, especially when considering the ethics of cheaper "disposable" products and how much stuff goes in the trash when products fail, all just to save a few bucks.

[@bonnevillebagger9147]

Latimer Hoke 100%

[@trollsteadent.72]

I really appreciate that you did this review. There are a lot of "gear snobs" out there. Admittedly, I'm one of them. 😋 I think it's great that you're showing a lower priced tent. Not everyone is going to be a thru-hiker or even a week long trip hiker. This looks like a great entry level shelter. It shows you don't need to spend $1000s to go out and enjoy hiking, backpacking, and nature. What's important, IMO, is more people getting outdoors and enjoying it. The more of us that enjoy and appreciate nature, the more of us there is that know how important having nature is. Thanks.

[@elizabethd2916]

Trollstead Ent. Couldn’t agree more.

[@winterfar2814]

The more you know the less you need. Usually people without that much experience and knowledge about the outdoors and gear technology, are the ones that purchase all the top of the line gear. The ones that know what they’re doing have certain pieces of kit that are the best available, and others pieces that are surprisingly inexpensive. It’s all about knowing what you need.

[@peterlamont647]

Agreed. I want someone to show themselves using a cheap mylar blanket and a mylar emergency tent. If you really are serious about weight dropping, there you go! Both will fit in one pocket and are around ~10$ total. You know they are packing them anyway...so if they know it can save their lives in an emergency, who are they kidding???? It's just for comfort and tacticool (tm) prestige to get a pricey tent. I'm not saying that's bad...why not if you are going hiking for half a year.

[@JasperJanssen]

Peter Lamont the problem with Mylar is that it can save your life *once*. That stuff doesn’t last more than a few days even with care. It does not stand up to pitching it every single day.

[@John_Ridley]

Gear snobs are kind of funny. Keep in mind that the guy doing a hike with Walmart equipment is doing the same hike as the guy with $3000 in gear - and still managing to do it. Seems like the Walmart guy is the hardcore one :)

[@theweekenddrz519]

Thanks for reviewing these cheaper products. Some good quality budget products are made with good quality, they just don’t have the exposure the high dollar companies do.

[@MIKEGREL]

I had a tent just like the $50.00 tent it saved my life I got asked recently about riding a motorcycle in the rain... It always takes me back to the summer of 1980 long before cell phones and GPS...I had a weeks vacation and a long weekend after that so a full 10 days off. My friend Doug and i decided we were going to meet up up and ride across America on the old Rt 66 on our motorcycles. Something nostalgic... It sure sounded like a great time..My girlfriend was visiting her dad in California that whole month and I was kind of down in the dumps/depressed. So this was just what I needed. I dropped my 1973 Honda CL 350 off at chris millers Honda and they were going to go threw it make sure it was ready for the trip. Tune up oil change and new sneakers. They did a great job bike sounded better then ever...awesome work!!! I was packing my back pack and bed roll when I remembered my dad had givin me this small plastic box it was like 10 inches x 8 inches and about 3 inches thick..it fit perfect on the bottom of the back pack. ( it was some kind of emergency tent bla bla bla...(( he told me but I wasn't listening as well as I should of )) i tossed it in there what the heck...grabbed a few other essentials filled the tank...got my riding clothes on and I was ready. The bike was packed and I was excited to hit the open road.... The day was absolutely amazing in every way shape and form....the ride to saint Louis was mind blowing fun... Once I got out of Saint Louis things started to turn south I missed my exit somehow by like 40 miles from there I just made one bad decision after another....im starting to run low on fuel it says the next service center was 57 miles away im thinking ok I got this.....I decided to push on threw to the next service area where I will pull in fill my tank and get some coffee an head back on the road and get back on track...or so i thought.. About 40 miles down the road it starts to rain....then the rain started comming down in sheets...thinking ok i can still make it the service area is only 10 or 15 min down the road. ... Now its turned in to an active thunderstorm and the winds are picking up im no longer able to keep up 55 mph pace im doing 35mph at best.. My world was crushed a few min later when the service area was closed it has been demolished leveled to the ground and blocked by a 10 foot fence... I have no choice but to ride on..... I can no longer read the map it looks like one big smudge....I ride on..see a sign that welcomes me to Mark Twain forest..ok Rt 66 is north of where I'm at i think...so I'm really getting desperate now I take the exit Only heading north... I can no longer see the road im still trying to go at least 35mph then I go over a bridge and I get slammed with 50 and 60 mph winds...how I didnt crash ill never know....when I got off that bridge I realized I was in deep trouble I was soaked to the bone the temp had dropped into the high 50s

[@TrailLark]

Mike what a wonderful story! Thank you for sharing it! Our tent on Amazon would've only taken you seconds to setup. (its only three poles) We wouldn't recommend a candle in it though. Perhaps you can still cross Rt66 off your list, but this time with an ultralight tent that weighs less than 2.7lbs, is freestanding, and costs only $99. See you on the trails...or in this case Rt66! -TrailLark

[@MIKEGREL]

@@TrailLark this whole tent and poles was packed in a 8"×10"×3" plaatic box the 8 tent poles gave it 40 inch overhead clearance...I dont know where my dad got it from... (he was a plastic engineer) so he prob got it at a show of some sort...I sure wish I could buy another one of them..!!!

[@MIKEGREL]

I bought the tent...

[@TrailLark]

@@MIKEGREL We appreciate that! Thanks for giving us a go! Good luck on your adventures!

[@ssijon]

imagine what river country could do with a $100 tent

[@dennispinar2103]

J M their updated tent has great ventilation and drops a few ounces.

[@plusbonus1165]

@Gray Au On the trail ?

[@brandonfoley7519]

I'd pay 100 but not 600

[@stevenvarner9806]

@Gray Au - If you are spending 150 or more days on the trail, a $600 tent works out to be $4 for your accommodation per night. The benefit is that tents like the Zpacks Duplex or the TarpTent Notch Li only weight about 20 ounces (560 g) compared to the River Country tent that weighs twice as much.

[@MichaelSuperbacker]

Steven Varner is weight really an issue?

[@dylanleamananderson7811]

This is the irl sandy cheeks from Spongebob

[@donettatrump2025]

2:26

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

I can't unsee this now hahaha :)

[@TheeCapN]

For some reason I always thought Sandy as a black person. Dunno why

[@jimhayes316]

I'm planning a hike of the NJ section of the AT next year and was planning on bringing the small tent I already have, but you just sold me on the River Country, so thank you! I'm watching all your videos to prepare. It's only 74 miles but I will be the biggest hike/camp trip I've ever done and your videos have been VERY helpful, so thanks!!

[@matthewleisenring6660]

the inexpensive tent reminds me of the tents we used when I was in Boy Scouts ... in the late 70's & early 80's.

[@mattset9335]

I've had the River Country Trekker 2.2 for little over a year. Used it a few times. No problems except a few pinholes where the corner stake tab pulls against the tent. A little super glue solved that. No problems with condensation. Rain water does pool a little on top of the tent but nothing to worry about it. I will buy this tent again when it eventually wears out. Works well with trekking poles. Thanks for the awesome videos Dixie. Waiting for your Long Path to the NPT video.

[@Swimdeep]

You genuinely do a great job with these videos Dixie. Whether it’s an episode of a thru hike or a product breakdown. Thank you from a long time subscriber. 🌿

[@jojoutdoors2266]

I rocked a trekker 2 a bunch this fall. I've got 7 or 8 nights in it 50 degrees down to 18 degrees and through light rain and snow. Ventilation leaves a bit to be desired but all in all, it's outstanding for the price and I had no issues with anything failing. I found setting up amongst saplings allowed me to tie the sides out parallel to the ground and that really opened up the interior. Also, I pitched the front trekking pole a bit long and out at an angle so the butt was about 8 to 10 inches away from the tent. This allowed me to put a carabiner around the pole and clip the rain door to it pulling it away from the front screen and allowing much better air flow. I also broke off small sticks and wedged them into the bottoms of the rear vents to prop them open much wider. During the day I would move the butt of that front pole back to the tent but off to one side which made getting gear in and out of the tent much easier not having it directly in the middle of the opening. Nice Vid!

[@DrFumesta]

I'm pretty surprised anyone would pay $600 for that. But I'm a hammock camper. Call me crazy but when the sky opens up, theres no better place to be than off the ground. I suppose if there were no trees, I'd be in a tight spot, but I've never camped anywhere with no trees.

[@theondebray]

Most of the places I go in the UK have no trees, and atrocious weather is a possibility at any time of the year. Its tents for me, in fine weather, just take the flysheet.

[@darkknightdje]

I've seen some pretty expensive hammock setups. One of them the tarp alone was $1000.

[@912582]

My hammock setup was $50 and the tarp $40 complete - underset $40 old sleep bag cut up. It's great where there are trees. My tent is a Vango Hydra - brilliant - not heavy, very comfortable for any conditions - $300

[@scottsample588]

I've seen more than a few SOAKED hammock campers. Not so with tents. I'm definitely interested in hammock camping, but the gear requirements just to stay warm and dry are a bit much.

[@allbaugh04]

I'm tempted to give it a try as well. You can easily put a tarp over the hammock too

[@robertskillings864]

I used the river country tent this Sept. on my elk hunt in the mountains of Idaho. Set up in the snow at 10k feet. There were 6 tents of the same with our hunting party, and this tent performed flawlessly. The new tents have extra ventilation in the sides also which helps with condensation. This person needs to tighten up her tent as you can clearly see. We had a problem with the trekking poles that came with one tent and the customer service is outstanding as they were aware of the problem and shipped us better replacements the same day! This company is awesome. Very well built for such a good price and will order from them first before anyone else. We gave 6 tents the ultimate test in very harsh conditions and not one complaint. I personally love the total enclosure as I don't get snow blowing in and no critters crawling across my chest at night. Rain, snow, wind, was all good. I can put up with a few extra ounces for hundreds of dollars more, and just maybe people need to work out more if they can't handle a few more. Only one mod I did was file the burrs off the stake where the hook is as it is to sharp, be careful. I also told the company about it. Hope this helps

[@burtvincent1278]

Dixie you do an excellent job. You present the subject very well and give good information without being repetative. I have spent time camping enough to have formed my own opinions and they don't seem to differ much from yours. Keep up the good work.

[@explorermike19]

Very good review. The $50 tent is the same design we used back in the 1960s and 1970s. It looks like the materials are better today than the old days which was rip-stop nylon then. The problem we had back then was the tent fabric leaked terribly in bad storms. If you touched the walls of the tent, they leaked and because the tents shook in the wind, you could not help but touch them. It used to be very common to wake up in a pool of water after a bad storm and since our sleeping bag material also sucked, it was a cold, wet, miserable experience. I remember once stabbing the floor of the tent with my pocket to let a large pool of water drain out! The best we could say was. "It was better than nothing". If the materials are much better today, the design does have advantages: Very fast set-up and take down (one minute). You can easily use branches for poles. Very lightweight. Compact. We did not consider them cheap back then. They are a much better value today.

[@calvinharris9263]

Thanks for the info. I have been wanting a Zpack tent but can't afford it. I'm on disability it doesn't pay much. I have had a $50 tent I got at Walmart a little over 10years ago and it great for a 2 person tent only had to reseal the seams this year. I have stayed in it when it got down to 10 degree with the wind chill and had a great time. It reminded me of days in the boy scout and a few nights in Germany when I was in the Army. To come to the conclusion I would like to say that price does not make any difference if you get quality again thanks for your time and videos .Please keep it up me from Tennessee

[@superdave54811]

I understand that Walmart tents are worthless when it rains or otherwise storms. I have no experience with it, so I truly do not know. I use a hammock with a proper tarp made for the hammock and an underquilt as needed.

[@calvinharris9263]

@@superdave54811 some of them are junk but if you read the details on the package it will tell how it is to be used.

[@ericacline1046]

My son and i were super pumped to see this video because this is OUR TENT!! We love it! He always uses it and I bring my hammock. If there are not good trees, then i sleep with him. He's about 5' and im 5'7". Pefect for section hiking. Thanks again for the content Dixie!

[@shaynecarter-murray3127]

Oooo...this looks like an excellent bug out bag option. Or trunk kit.

[@toomanyplantsiguess]

I have a Decathlon Forclaz 1 person tent, bought it for €150,- and I am very happy with it! I haven't had issues with condensation yet, it is a double wall tent, and can be set up without the stakes. It has aluminum stakes and poles. It has a vertibule area large enough for my large pack and shoes, they didn't get wet at all during the rain. It weighs 1600g/3lbs/8oz. If stuffed in the sack it is 6L, but I keep the stakes and poles on the outside of my pack. Great buy!

[@mikemcfarland3461]

Should have compared to the Lanshan 2 great tent at one sixth the price of Zpacks duplex

[@DravinD81]

I agree.

[@Beyond-Horizons-]

i just got the Lanshan 2 w8ing for it now ...

[@denverwayt4877]

I helped dad get that 1 last year. He loves it 👍

[@wshnlc]

Just received mine and can’t wait to try it on a trek!

[@MTBIKEXC]

The Lansham 2 is heavy compared to the Zpacks Duplex: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7HgoqOhdmVlck

[@Virpukka]

TheOutdoorGearReview did rain testing with the River Country Trekker Tent, with both versions 2 and 2.2. Both leaked pretty well when it was really rainy weather. He actually contacted to the company because of it on both times and the latest answer from them was that they know there is issues and they are bringing new updated version out on this coming summer. I would check the seams at home with hosing it more than ten minutes or leaving it overnight in rain to see how much it leaks and seal it properly before taking it out because you can get really wet in that tent if the weather gets really bad. (Or put tarp over it)

[@user-cv3gd2wr5q]

I’m not even in the market for one of these BUT, you did an awesome job reviewing these!

[@Aikidoman06]

I use a $30 Walmart tent I've had for over twenty years. I had an expensive Eureka, but one ember put a hole in it the second time out. I also saw a guy's tent blow off a mountain one day. He said he paid $200 for it. Twenty years in the Army and thousands of campouts I say go cheap as long as it is the size and weight you need.

[@robertjeffery3237]

Love the additional Monsoon testing you did! Thank you!

[@deadfight22]

I tried two tents (Fly Creek and a pyramid type tent) before I started tarp camping about a year ago and have never looked back. I love the versatility, ease of set up, and the openness of a tarp. I made a 5.8ft x 9ft tarp poncho and a 38 inch wide bug bivy if it gets buggy. With a poly cryo ground cloth titanium stakes and micro cord my entire shelter weighs 20oz. And yes I have stayed completely dry in several storms. Oh and its more of a rain kimono then a poncho but this has also work very well.

[@CanadianSledDog]

I love my cheap Nature Hike Cloud Up 2 free standing backpacking tent. Used it about 50 times so far and no signs of wear!

[@erikawoods8975]

CanadianSledDog178 Liam Quigley I just bought that one!

[@VT-tz5bm]

I REALLY appreciate that you’re not a product pusher for companies.. you keep it real and we don’t have to worry about a fake opinion.

[@trinityr.1343]

Thank you so much for for you videos. You really got me out of my house and more into nature by helping me find my love of hiking. You are amazing!

[@trublkid]

I'm a weekend hiker/camper. I live by some great state and national parks, though I'm also busy with work and family. That said, I love to take a Friday off and hike to a remote spot to set up camp for the night, sometimes two, with my two dogs. I own this River Country Trekker tent and absolutely love it. It fits me and my two labradors too. A $600 tent would be a total waste. This tent is perfect...for me. I skimp where I need to, but also don't have to cold soak to save weight, etc. I can pack 3 Mountain House's if I want, and eat good. It's just nice to get outdoors and enjoy, which doesn't always require top-of-line equipment/gear. My tent was $46, sleeping bag was $36, sleeping pad was $29, and my backpack (50L) was $60. So far, it's all worked perfectly for my needs.

[@davidvigneux6929]

"It looks kinda like a saggy diaper" Best sales pitch ever!! XD I love these!

[@mountain_dweller]

I decided to give the river country products 1p tent a try. Upon unboxing, the mesh zipper had already become separated. I was able to get it zipped back up but I would imagine failure was not far off. I took it out for a night to see how it would fare, both of the external door zippers failed that night. So, I have a $40 credit with Amazon and my x mid 1p arrived last night.

[@jasonsoutthere7733]

I have the River Country Products tent and I like it, for decent weather. It did fill up with water though when I was on the Pinhote. We didn't anticipate hard and constant rain all night long and tons of water got in. Made some mods, sprayed some Camp-dry on it and now it's a joy to have and use.

[@gulfrelay2249]

Jason's Out There hey, it's 60 bucks.

[@SCSlimBoiseID]

Homemade Wanderlust - The $50 tent looks like a reasonable option for a first-timer, someone on a tight budget, or someone who isn't looking to carry it all throughout a 2,000 + mile trail hike. Many years ago, I had a smallish, 2-person A-frame tent something like it. Condensation was a minor issue, but the 8 inches of snow that had fallen on it overnight was a bigger one - we woke up with the roof literally an inch from our noses. For the hikes and camp-outs that I make these days, the $50 tent would do nicely. Thanks for the comparison vid. Cheers.

[@1GunGurl]

Great review! I spray my tents down to help with waterproofing for camping trips. I’m not a thru hiker but I plan on doing more backpacking trips.

[@preppysquirrel9712]

I have this RC 2.0 tent and have used it for both backpacking including a 16F winter hike and car camping. It's a great entry way tent. Some folks simply cannot afford to spend several paychecks on a tent, this is a great option and gets the job done. It's also good as emergency shelter for those who keep such things in a car, truck , GHB or BOB. There is a 2.2 version. The orig 2.2 had top seem issues however they updated the design and seem to have handled the design flaw with the update. For ventilation and condensation the 2.2 is a great alternative for a few ounces more, but has a little less sturdy bath tub. The 2.0 bathtub is tough and requires no foot print.

[@janicew9]

This is such a thorough and useful review! I love how honest you were in your tests

[@warfox364]

Thanks so much for this review, I actually bought that river tent last year but have never used it yet. I was worried that I got a lemon so have been saving for a better one. With this review coming from a person of your caliber, I’m more confident in my purchase. I followed your AT hike videos, your the one who inspired me to get into hiking, again thank you 👍

[@marioneto50]

You could compare the 3F UL Lanshan tent to the duplex. Looks a lot better than the one you tried and not much more expensive.

[@OrangeCountyDog]

Yes Dixie, love to see your spin on the Lanshan 2. Thanks for all the content you put out, my dog gives you a high five!

[@Presshandstandgirl]

I have and use that tent for all my hikes. Even with hard winds it was awesome

[@ja55v6II]

I am an assistant scoutmaster chaplain for the Boy Scouts troop 94, and I am kind of a newbie with camping..I really enjoy these videos that you posted, I have learned so much and also I’m sharing it with my son who is also a newbie to Boy Scouts, he’s only 13. So we thank you

[@hellojeff854]

The real question is, why am I watching this? I don't even go out to camp

[@saintsaens21]

I'm living several lives vicariously through internet, sure beats the matrix.

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

@@saintsaens21 😂😂😂

[@jonothandoeser]

because of the girl.

[@kathrynowens2678]

Because it's Dixie!😊 She's the best.

[@lespaul36]

Cause you know you really want too LOL

[@aurorafigueroa-benetti3376]

I've got a very similar one person version of the river country. I love it for the price and if I'm hiking when there's a guarantee of dry weather. The lack of a vestibule is a huge pain during inclement weather! Thanks for the review!

[@tecnotrog1]

That moment I realized I can save $540.00..50.00 tent here I come

[@theondebray]

From the UK: I had an old Vango Mk1 tent, lasted 37 years before it ceased to keep out the rain. After much research, I replaced it with another Vango Xenon U/L2 (2 persons, cos I'm a big lad) with sewn-in groundsheet. I need a tent for full four season camping, Scottish winters, Welsh RAIN, gale force winds, foreign trips, high altitude, and this fits the bill, superb design, quality manufacturing, I expect it to see me out. Glad to see you going for tents, as opposed to those useless tarps & hammocks nonsense. A tent keeps out the WIND, insects, dust, snow, rain, animals, & nosey people. With titanium pegs & an extra groundsheet, it weights in at 1.4 kg (= 3+lb), and at £238 I am well pleased. Sounds a lot, but v good VFM, compared to e.g. a Hilleberg tent @ £600+.

[@magnum15917]

I have the $50 Amazon tent 🏕 but I’m new to backpacking can’t wait to try it, thanks for the great review

[@danielbutler6763]

Thank you. I'm in for the tent! AT at 68 y/o ready to go with your help and encouragement. "Got to git, while the gittin's good."

[@ladyscarfaceangel4616]

I’m never this early. Lol. I had no idea the z pack was $600! Wow! I’m too cheap for that. Thanks for showing us the differences in the two tents. I already have a hammock, & I was thinking of just using that till I can afford something else anyway.

[@unsung4189]

Hay Dixie, like you I had to find out about this tent, and like you I wasn’t comfortable with the door soo, I felt I could invest a few dollars to modify some of the simpler issues. I purchased some strapping from the local hardware store, pinned it in loops to both sides of the door and took it to my tailor shop. One loop went around the treking poll, the other had a short piece of 550 to tie closed when I was in for the night… now its a $70 tent This is as close as I would ever get to a $600 tension tent so it was wort the effort. I was happy with it in spite of the typical condensation issues. But honestly , my Tiger Wall will always be my first choice under any circumstances. Thank you for the vid… always good to hear from you

[@CarolynsRVLife]

I bought a cheap 4 Season tent on Amazon for a winter survival course a few years ago. All I can say is "Never Again". I will go with something with a reputation for quality.

[@Animal-Reaction-Clips]

Can I ask was the 4 season tent you got good for winter like 0 celcius and why did u not like about the tent and what good qualities should a tent have ? Thanks in advance

[@Animal-Reaction-Clips]

@J Hemphill I live in a dessert where it gets to 51c in the day and freezing at night but the sand makes the heat worse. I'm very far away from a city boy. It's the season of snakes and scorpions so I feel a bit nervous camping out in the sand with no trees around .

[@Animal-Reaction-Clips]

@J Hemphill I was from the uk London but I moved away when I was 15 with my parents to a flippin desert it took me 4 years to get used to it. The nic is a old account that I had.

[@Collinfan94]

thanks, Dixie, so glad I found your channel. I am doing my first backpacking trip this August with a friend from work, doing the 100 mile wilderness (I am from Bangor, Maine). I am hoping to do the AT eventually and this is my big test. I'm not a novice, I've been hiking for years, but it's the first time I've done a trip this long, so very glad to see I don't have to spend a fortune on a tent right off. Love your videos!

[@dark_gravity_edc]

Great video and review. One thing I've learned is that the law of diminishing returns applies to most gear. A $50 tent did what a $600 tent did at 99% equal. So is 20ozs, a vestibule, 2 doors and a screen worth over 10x the money? I think you could find a tent in the middle that would 100% equal for $100-200 and use the extra $400 on a trip or other gear. Your gear doesn't have to always be Gucci. I've learned that with packs, boots, clothes, knives, etc.... Now I've learned it with modern tents. Thank You and War Damn Eagle!

[@JasperJanssen]

100% equal, no. At the 100-200 dollar range (my range) you’re looking at 30 oz, not not 20. Unless it’s made of stupid light stuff that won’t last. At 400 dollars, you’re looking at 25 oz. that’s what diminishing returns means. Cuben fiber is *ridiculously* light for what it is.

[@timlois]

I like the fact that you gave this tent an objective review. Some hikers with your bona fides would smugly dismiss it as useless trash. Where, it wouldn't be bad for a weekend warrior on a budget (like me). That said, I'd be glad to become the proud owner of your crusty Duplex. I'll even tell my friends that I got it from my favorite thru-hiker to watch on KZbin, and that they should subscribe. ; )

[@damarcusdasher5187]

How well does trekking pole tents stand up to the wind. I like to camp on beach and lost two tents to the wind

[@Tlydia]

my tent uses hiking poles and I've slept through some crazy wind and rainstorms and never had an issue

[@RosieGamgee]

My husband and I are thru-hiking the AT this year (in 44 days!! So excited!). We are using a TarpTent double rainbow. It reminds me of the duplex but it does have poles. We have done some backpacking with it and we like it. Having the height with the poles is nice for two people and we can split the weight of it.

[@catlady8324]

Even her “Cheap” tent is still awesome! 👏👏👏

[@puszek737]

I have used this River Country Products tent for three section hikes on the AT! So surprised and happy to see you review it. Thank you. I also bought the 2.2 version but haven’t used it. I did just break down and order a Nemo Hornet 2P, which is $370 and is just a tiny bit lighter. I really want the ZPacks Duplex but $600 feels like a lot.

[@lrose711]

Really great review Dixie! It's a great option if you really can't afford the Zpacks tent...I'm always looking for a more affordable option so greatly appreciate your insight...

[@superdave54811]

Dixie (Ms. Jessica Mills), I followed your progress as you were posting your videos of each trail. I waited with baited breath for the next one to be published. You are my #1 favorite hiker. As long as I have a few trees and some clear ground underneath I will use a hammock. I prefer the lay of a hammock to that of the ground. However, tents do have advantages that hammocks do not have. I do not like a tent to be wet on the inside.

[@DieselRamcharger]

600 bucks for 2 lbs of tent is literally insane.

[@wynwilliams6977]

'literally' That word, i don't think it means what you think it means...

[@rusty.ramrod]

"Inconceivable"...

[@RobertSmith-mc4yj]

Agree, but top posting channels on youtube get $$$ from youtube as they are driving a lot of traffic to their ads!!

[@sandywendelfred8260]

I just came from watching Ultralight Backpacking - Not Even Once. This quote could have been taken right from it: "...I used on my PCT and CDT through hikes. It is a tent that is made out of Cuban Fibre. It is very lightweight coming in at just 21 oz for the tent alone and without the stuff sack * *smirks* * it's only 20.7 oz."

[@theopolise2077]

Diesel Ramcharger not really it’s well made and strong if your depending on it for shelter you shouldn’t cheap out and it’s supposed to be light it’s for backpacking

[@TheMacgyver3441]

I remember using this green tent as a kid. It was my starter tent when I was a kid. Even it was a 2 person tent I was only for me and as such for me it was really big. I used that green tent from when I was 12 - 18. My parents used to take me camping every year. I know about the conditions problems and yes on my pad I was always dry and in the morning I would open up my tent while I was having breakfast and I remember that the time it took me to finish breakfast that the water was able to dry out. Overall I felt that it was a great tent and if you don’t have poles don’t worry it comes with its own poles that are easy to use that even a 12year old could figure it out.

[@adventure_hannah3841]

This was an awesome review! I love budget gear reviews. I've been carrying a 27oz Kelty NOAH 9' tarp since I started backpacking four years ago. It's bombproof, and I bought it for $40. Would it be nice to have a 6oz, $300 tarp? Sure. Do I NEED one? Nah.

[@susanlea7759]

Your knees, ankles and back sure would APPRECIATE an 8 oz tarp......

[@heatherteeters4697]

I have this tent! It rained steadily for hours and it unfortunately leaked. I contacted river country and they sent me the newer version, no questions asked. They said the fabric on my tent must have been defective. I plan on treating the new tent before I use it! Also, the top peak of the front of the tent creates a pocket so you can put your trekking pole handle in it instead of the handle being in the dirt. That won't work for the back of the tent however. I've decided to attach my own vestibule to the front! I sew and there's plenty of room to attach a couple of separating zippers to the front... Or maybe I'll just buy a small canopy to set up over the front. Thanks for doing this review!

[@jacobalten]

tremendous review. i would buy the river country trekker 2. i am a first time backpacker. i am not for sure if i would use it for long hikes like you did. but just for weekend hikes and the like. spending more money on long hikes like what you did would be just fine a better quality one. thanks.

[@jacobalten]

thanks for your reply.... but i tried the spray water repellant and i didnt find it to work. i was wondering if it really does or maybe i just didnt do it right. but anyway. do you recommend any certain brand that works for water repellant for this tent.

[@TheApeirophobia]

@@jacobalten Hey Jacob, I used the river country trekker in my most recent hike. It was raining that night but everything was dry inside. You don't need to spray any water repellant for this tent.

[@jacobalten]

thanks for you answer.

[@Grimenoughtomaketherobotcry]

@@jacobalten I don't live in the States, and the brand I use is only sold in Canada, but if you buy water repellent, make sure it's main ingredient is silicone. You can get it in any hardware or camp equipment retailer. You'll need at least two cans for a two person tent, as you need to apply two coats to both the interior and exterior. Make sure the seams are saturated, and let the tent dry completely between applications. You'll need to have the tent set up outside in your yard (hope you have one; this is not something for apartment dwellers!) for at least a day and overnight. Always wear a good quality respirator mask and gloves when applying silicone. The can will have other instructions, so read them carefully, as silicone when liquid or aerosol is not to be messed with. Once it's fully dry it's quite safe.

[@kitajoi8901]

This was incredibly helpful. I’m planning my first thru hike with my daughter. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for years and the only thing stopping me was the assumption that I needed ridiculous amounts of money to buy all the gear to get started. I’d much rather get outside with a little less luxury than never go hiking at all. Thanks for giving me an idea of where to start.

[@woodythehikerw9323]

Would be great for the desert section of the PCT as nof much moisture in the air

[@djg5950]

Rainy and high winds this year on the southern section of the PCT. Guess it's going to be a record breaking year this year for rain and snow.

[@tammi12373]

We have this exact tent, so this was really great to watch! We have only used it a few times so far, and not in any terrible weather, but i can definitely vouch for the roominess inside. Granted my husband and I are both height challenged, I am 5'1/2" and he is 5'4", so when we lay down it in we have kept our packs up by our heads rather than on the side of us and we still have plenty of foot room.

[@69Muscle]

In 1978 I went on my 1st backpacking trip in New Hampshire. My mom bought me a $30 tent at Kmart. It wasn't waterproof nor did it have no-seeum netting, but, with a tarp over it rain, it did the job. It was better than a stand alone tarp - for sure. In 1981, I was hired as a Ranger at a Boy Scout Camp. It was a dream come true. A second dream come true was when I got THE Eureka Timberline Tent for Christmas. The difference was night and day. The Timberline was THE 2 man free-standing tent to have back in the 70's and 80's. Amazing tent and value.

[@bhshankar]

Never had a tent... Have no idea of buying in future but still saw the full video 🤣

[@austinwelker7778]

On my gear-test night, first time using the River Country Trekker, I went to sleep with wet hair after a shower. I woke up in a muggy mess, everything had a layer of condensation on it. Be warned for hot summer nights when ventilation is a must!

[@nathanwphelps]

This is great! I would love a similar type of review with a cheap quilt or bag.

[@wendyl6185]

Heck yeah! Would love to see some Outdoor Vitals bags or quilts!

[@thecrittersitter1]

Dixie, your reviews are the best I see anywhere! I am not a backpacker, but am an old school bicycle tourist, and checking out your reviews is sooo helpful for me. Thanks so muc!

[@robertinebuckley4245]

Fantastic review! Really well done, thank you for taking the time to do this!

[@stephenhill6003]

Over the years the tarp-like floor of my pup tent, like your green one, has held up well with me and my dog. I'm 6'3 and so if feels kind of cozy, but has worked well on many backpacking trips.

[@steveneichhorn8734]

This was a neat video. Thanks. I've been considering an ultralight tent specifically for sheep hunting in Alaska.

[@Ichinin]

If it has an interior tent (missed if it had that), the exterior tent has to be taut quite well so it doesn't sag down on the interior tent, if i does then water can pass from exterior to interior. As for condensation, bring an absorbent dish rag (don't know what it is called, but we have a product called "wettex" here, spongy kind of cellulose rag use in the kitchen, google it) that you can just wring out in the morning after soaking up the condensation from the walls. I put two in my tent (they are rather slim) and i don't even notice them being in there when packed up.

[@henryhawk7038]

I really like what you have to share.

[@peter_smyth]

I find the different tents marketed in Europe (especially the UK) and America interesting. The tents on this channel (and similar channels) seem to me to be less sturdy and lighter, whereas tents in the UK, where I'm from, look heavier and sturdier. I'm guessing this is because in the UK (and to a lesser extent Europe) most truly wild places are high ground and have windier, wetter weather than parts of the US, so tents have to withstand more. Also, areas of wilderness are smaller than in North America, so people aren't hiking for months carrying a tent, so they can afford to carry a slightly greater weight.

[@CalvinHodgson]

To each their own I suppose. If one is generally not backpacking far in a day, a sub $200 tent that is under 3 lbs can be worth it. Backpacking is all about experience and learning. Start with cheaper gear and see if you need something better.

[@southjerseysound7340]

I still swear by my 20+ year old Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight that is around 3.5 lbs and was less than $100. I think I paid 80$ ish but its been ages.

[@autonomous2010]

Mhm it depends a lot on how frequently a person goes camping and the kinds of weather conditions they will be exposed to. If they only plan on camping at designated spots 2-3 weekends a year, a pricey tent is way overkill for them. A person that is cross country hiking (~800 miles) and planning on spending every day in the middle of nowhere for six months in that tent? That's when the durability and weight becomes really important. I need to know that tent will hold up in flash floods, hail, high winds, intense heat, intense cold, etc. A cheap setup isn't going to cut it.

[@mikemullins8020]

Thanks for this review. I'm just starting out at 63 yrs old with bad knees and needed a light budget tent.

[@kq6up]

I love how your accent sounds on the word "wide" :D Reminds me of my family from Arkansas.

[@thetommantom]

I have a duplex tap. When I cinch it down tight to the ground my quilt touches the wall when I'm on my pad. Since it's a tarp I can really dry it or air it out after. That river tent looks bigger because it's more sharp of an angle. From my experience with tents with connected floors, one wet night is no big deal, a towel can dry the inside easily enough.

[@jvmiller7791]

You should try the Lanshan 2

[@glenngl]

Agreed! This one is similar to the Lanshan2, but available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/MIER-Ultralight-3-Season-Backpacking-1-Person/dp/B07F8S54NH/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=lanshan%2Btent&qid=1550708572&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1

[@jvmiller7791]

Glenn Lebumfacil its the same tent. I got mine from Ali express in China. It took a month. But only cost me $100

[@alexwbanks70]

@@jvmiller7791 I have one on the way. It's been shipped so I'm guessing its somewhere on the North Pacific at the moment.

[@TvaloneCC]

@@glenngl link shows a mier product is lanshan the name of the tent?

[@glenngl]

Toren Valone basically the same tent.

[@kellygrundhofer5212]

We have two of the river country tents (our family of 9 needs 3 tents). They worked wonderfully on our two plus weeks in yellow stone last summer. Great family tents for backpacking... with a big family of small kids you have to keep packs light and minimal. Plus you need to keep cost reasonable. Thanks for reviewing this awesome company!

[@jshicke]

Great review. Having woke up in a damp sleeping bag due to condensation, you raised exactly the points I was concerned about. Doubt I could afford a $600 tent.though.

[@lonepecheurboussac1249]

then get the lanshan 2 for 100

[@zeeshimon7138]

I've watched a lot of camping videos, and you are the first person ever talk about condensation and water collection. Thank you so much you are the biggest help ✊

[@toddparnaby972]

I would rather have the cheaper one , why would you pay $ 600 fora single wall tent

[@MaxxSeemov]

@@elijahnapp You're a stupid noob. People have been hiking since the dawn of time without fancy gears. Doesn't mean they aren't dedicated. I've hiked some of the best trails in East/Southeadt Asia with a tent 1/6th the price of hers.

[@elijahnapp]

Genepool Do you want a medal? I won’t fight you bc you’re clearly insecure about something in your life, trying to personally attack me for having a opinion😂🤦‍♂️. Grow up buddy🤦‍♂️😂😂😂

[@kirbyhill3411]

Wonderful video! I have the River Country tent and I waterproofed it. It has performed beautifully! Best tent I ever had. The company also stands behind their products. I bought a sleeping pad for my bag about a year ago. When the pas developed a leak they replaced it free of charge. They even sent the newer much improved version! Great products. Cant beat em.

[@zekeurrabazo]

I think it's awesome your giving away tents 😉👍

[@STho205]

That's a nice and fair review. My wife hikes with her club. I do motorcycle camping and have a smaller bike, so I've relied on a tarp tied to the bike or tree and bivy or hammock. The budget tent looks to be a good choice for her and me. It'll easily fit on my seat or in my drybag. It'll easily fit in her pack. I'll sometimes meet them at a camp site on the BMT or AT for night, so I could easily carry it.

[@patrickoneill6821]

I have this exact tent, sprayed it but haven't used it yet. I appreciate you reviewing budget gear with an open mind. I would LIVE to see an honest review of that LanShan2 tent! I saw that tent after I already purchased this tent. Thank you!

[@texmexia49]

Patrick, here are three reviews. I have the Lanshan 2 and used it on the TRT with no issues, but didn't have any bad weather to really challenge it. I did seam seal it again just to make sure it didn't leak and sprayed it down with a hose real well to check for leaks. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g32YkJqOmLF0fM0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXLapmSIfLiqZqs kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5DQeJykYph7pMk

[@patrickoneill6821]

@@texmexia49 thank you!

[@Thomas-wn7cl]

I have Lan Shan II. I do not like the plastic tensioners. I had a little condensation in the cold (25 deg F) during a 2 night trip. I do not know if it would last a thu hike, but it did ok for its inaugural run.

[@texmexia49]

Patrick ONeill happy to help!!

[@texmexia49]

Patrick, here is one more review. Guy had it out when raining all night. He set it up nice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWXLd4WPiLlsY7s

[@Go-zi1py]

I have this tent! I used it on a section hike of the AT and it worked great. I had two adults and a large dog in the tent. We had plenty of room. The main reason I bought the tent was because it was light weight for the price and overall just so cheap that if the dog scratched at the door to get out and shredded the floor I wouldn't be out of much. The dog did scratch at the floor and it held up fine! If you're on a budget or worried that something might abuse the tent then I think it's a great option.

[@aarondavis5535]

I'm sure it Nice but can't you get army surplus tents cheaper for those on a budget

[@shellyskye527]

Aaron Davis Well heck. You could go down to a hardware store and buy some 6mil clear plastic and make a palatial tarp for just a few bucks. Plus it would be much lighter than an army surplus tent.

[@aarondavis5535]

@@shellyskye527 are you thanking the huge military tents that you could use as permanent housing. Them are nice but I was the smaller ones that are more packable

[@aarondavis5535]

Like the Eurka ( I may I have spelled that wrong ) USMC 2 person tent

[@konaexpress100]

Most of the Army surplus was bought out years ago. What you mostly see now is China knock offs. This is coming from a Vet. God bless.

[@ericgeier5031]

Took this tent up to kearsarge pass this past fall. It worked but the condensation was an issue. The temp dropped to 10 degrees at night and all the condensation froze turning the tent into a crystal palace! I am a taller guy and had to sleep diagonally in the tent. This caused the foot box of my sleeping bag to get wet. This would be great for warmer weather camping. I’m going to use it again on my. Whitney this year. Good review. Thanks Dixie! Good to see a video on it! Now my buddy’s can stop making fun of my cheap tent!!!!!!

[@mrcu8176]

After have a snake slither up next to me I will NEVER get a tent without a tub.

[@bud9269]

And now I never will either

[@GuilhermeBianeck]

Or wake up at 3 am with a mouse looking at u

[@alantaylor6691]

Where did it sliver and what time was it?

[@SlickCat]

They will get in the bag with you if its cold out....lol 🐍

[@alantaylor6691]

@@SlickCat That's right.