REI Passage • 2 Person - 3 Season Tent • Field Review & Setup

[@Michael.Outside]

11 years later and still helpful. I haven’t used mine in several years so I watched this to make sure I wasn’t missing anything. Thank you.

[@jg-rc9tt]

8 years later and still super helpful! Thank you.

[@stevenspace721]

This is probably the best setup video I've seen for this tent.

[@PhilAndersonOutside]

I work for REI. While the Half Dome and Trail Hut are better, dollar for dollar the Passage is the best tent we sell. Just a fantastic little tent.

[@jenniferrotermund8011]

I had not set up a tent in many years and just recently invested in a passage 2 for easy, local camping with friends. I probably could have muddled my way through the set up, but your video was exactly what I needed. I was able to pop it up in 10 min or less thanks to the extra, little details you explained. Thank you!!

[@artmoss6889]

I've used this tent for backpacking, but mostly when I was camping with another person and we could divide the load, otherwise, it's bit heavy and bulky for one person, especially if you were going out multiple days. The coldest temperature I've used the Passage 2 in was 10 degrees above zero and it was snowing. The rain fly kept the snow out really well and the zippers held up great in the cold. For the price, I think this is a terrific tent.

[@ilovelamp6642]

I have this tent and I love it. The first time I brought it out, it rained HARD! I stayed absolutely dry. No leaks. I've used it in the snow as well with no problems. It's light weight and I LOVE the fact that it has to doors (probably my favorite feature!). It is small. Two large people would have a bit of trouble if you wanted to keep your bags inside the tent. I am 6'1 and had no problems with length. I was actually able to sleep with my bag at my feet... With the rain fly up, you have a nice little area underneath the rain fly and right outside of your door where you can keep your shoes (if their wet) or whatever. I found this really useful. I used it on some sand dunes at the beach one time and it was windy as fuck. I filled some plastic grocery bags with sand and tied the rain fly to them and had absolutely no problems with the wind, while my friends tents were getting flipped right and left. I think the low profile helped with that.

[@straycatkid]

Krik, you and Stony put out some of the best videos around for outdoors people. I end up watching even if it's a review for an item I don't need, because I know I'll pick up something, some tip or bit of outdoors knowledge I hadn't heard before. Keep up the great work, you're doing an awesome job.

[@goxcpre]

I agree. Your videos have the best video quality of anyone doing reviews like this on youtube. Keep up the hard work, I would love to see more tent reviews like this!

[@tobydavis5673]

I appreciate you taking the time to post this. I’m planning my 1st overnight backpacking trip in about 10 days and seriously considering purchasing this tent from REI. At the time of this writing they have it on sale, plus a $20 off coupon code for REI members. I definitely wanted to see how it was set up before I do purchase and you have thoroughly gone over that. Again, many thanks. Lastly I hope that is not poison oak on the ground where you were setting up the tent. 😮 Hope to see you on the trail.

[@neversinkoutdoors]

Nice review. We have this exact tent, and in our experience having two vestibules (and entrances) is quite important. We end up using only one vestibule for entering and exiting, and we leave our shoes in that vestibule (particularly nice when it's raining and the ground is wet). We leave our large backpacks in the other vestibule (that's where having a second entrance is useful too, since we don't need to go into the tent to retrieve our gear). If you only had one vestibule and stored all your gear in it, you would not have much room left to come in and out, and you certainly wouldn't have room to take on or take off your shoes. Of course some tents have enormous vestibules.

[@Hesirontuff]

the black corner matches to the black corner. Especially helpful if you have the footprint and are camping on wet or abrasive ground. also, the titanium tent stakes are an ABSOLUTE MUST. I LOVE THOSE THINGS.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

You're welcome. And thank you for these very, very kind words. Like Stony has said before, our payment for these videos is the feedback we get from YOU, the subscriber. Thanks for watching. -Krik

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

thank you so much. krik and i were just talking about how much power is held within encouraging words. so we thank you again, compared to how much time and money we have invested, the only payoff we see is the compliments of our subscribers. so again we thank you. stay tuned. krik and i have a lot more in store. we plan to be doing this for a long, long time. - stony

[@KallyJones]

I bought one last winter. I love it. I wish I could lighten it a bit, but I am working on that for multi-day backpacking purposes. You can shave a few ounces (≳3 oz) by buying smaller, lighter weight stakes. I'm trying to find lighter tent poles (OEM weigh 1lb 2.5oz). Basically, I really like the tent and have used it several times, but I'd love to get the weight down so I don't feel the urge to buy an expensive backpacking tent that has the same quality level.

[@urgamecshk]

From my experience, it's better to put the fly under the tent poles itself. Otherwise, you're fly will fly (no pun intended) free when the stake gets pulled out, and then goes your tent as well. Also, I avoid putting the stakes in until my fly is completely on. If it's too windy, you should have guy lines to secure the fly to the ground as well.

[@cgrocho47]

Put the poles through the fly grommets as well as those of the tent body. That way, when you cinch down the fly, it'll better tension it against the poles and increase structural integrity.

[@janw7157]

Yours is the best video on set up of this tent, thanks. I just bought it on sale at REI.

[@nathanaelwoodward2088]

the inner tent pole eye loop is for when the tent stretches over time buddy you mite want to start out using the one you put your steaks through so you have that option later on, keep camping bro

[@MTNGEARKING]

I have one just like this, its worth every dime/went thru a 6hr heavey down pour no leaks/and the wind didnt do nothing to the stitching

[@shcmoly]

Own it. Love it. Headroom is tight, but it is a tent not a hotel room. One important point you forgot is the minimalist shelter option: fly, footprint, poles, NO tent. Footprint is required for that. 2 grommets: inner - tighter pitch, outer - looser pitch.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Sorry for the very late reply. I prefer most, if not all, of my gear to be muted and earth tone colors. I go to the forest to disappear, in a way. But, it's not a bad idea to carry something (kerchief, plastic bag) that is brightly colored in case of an emergency. -Krik

[@EarlyMist]

Looks like a sweet tent. I've had a heck of a run with un-waterproof tents! I finally found one I liked and didnt leak...touch wood....its such a personal experiental journey. Great vid Krik n Stony.

[@toddwilkinson9476]

this seems great,i have been looking for a two person tent today online,many choices but always great to see reviews first,thanks guys

[@patsysok2]

I thought that was a great presentation! Thanks. I feel confident, now, to put the Passage 2 up.

[@AC_Lerok]

Great vid thanks! REI should be paying you because this video just sold another Passage 2!

[@jonnbruin]

Thanks for the video and helpful instructions, gonna be using it this weekend on my first trip with the gf!

[@EarlyMist]

Also I dont know if it was on purpose...but you chose a shelter that blends in. Thats my personal preference. Unless you're trying to be rescued (thats what the flame orange ponchos or mountanieering gear is reserved for) I find it an eyesore when you head outdoors and see mad bright colours here and there.

[@indiGLOfashooo]

Thanks man I've had this tent for a few years and you pointed out a few things I never knew about it !

[@robertsherrow3627]

Great set-up video. Thinking about getting the REI Trail Hut 2, which is very similar, and found your vid very useful. Thanks!

[@user-xw7zw5ek5d]

Saw that stake pulling out from a mile away... The fly is designed to hook directly to the poles for maximum stability

[@RL-1989]

Thank you for the video it was very helpful and detailed. Exactly what i was looking for when considering it for purchase.

[@paulallanidae]

I've got a friend who has a Hennessy Hammock and he loves it! The one he has comes with mosquito net sewn into it.

[@andystegner]

Great review and thank you. I ended up buying this tent after watching your video and reading some reviews. Look forward to more videos including gear reviews!

[@EronIler]

Good video. I put mine up for the first time and you had some good tips. It is a very easy tent to setup and takes less than 10 minutes.

[@Curt8153]

I just took back my REI Half Dome tent , which had a bright yellow rain fly, which isn't any good for stealth camping. They gave me a 100% refund and I got this tent, which would be great for stealth camping. Thanks for the review.

[@kenship7]

I like my passage 2 so far, nice little tent

[@jasontomica8938]

Thanks

[@wessimpson2544]

I enjoyed your video I bought this tent last year on sale and have yet to use it. I set it up but I ran the poles through the loops since that was the style I had prior I wonder about hooking it vs that. I watched your video and thought now that makes sense - much easier. I thought the quality and sound were fine.

[@howarthe1]

I bought this tent and I love it. I had some trouble following the set up instructions, and this video helped. I still need to know how to install the guy lines and the footprint. I don't think six stakes are enough. I think I need to buy some more.

[@stevenspace721]

For the guy lines on the fly you need two stakes that are not included.

[@MTNGEARKING]

As with any new tent a week or several days before you use it SOAK it with water/ Garden hose it down let it dry so it will settle the fabric .That way when it rains you will not have to worry about sagging or leaks. i always do this to my new outdoor gear even packs and sleeping gear.

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Avoid it at all costs! If you're by yourself, there's not much you can do to keep rain out of the tent. I'd say wait it out if possible. Your tent is your safe place. It's supposed to be dry and clean. If you're with friends, have them hold the fly over the tent as it's being setup. Or, if it's a free standing tent (as most backpacking tents are), set it up under a tree or some shelter first, put on the fly, then carry it to your desired spot and stake and guy it out. I hope this helps. -Krik

[@rickdavis2235]

Have you tried setting up the fly first and then the tent if it's raining?

[@ronmurphy4674]

I wish you would have shown all of the inside. Any corner storage pockets? And what are all the dimensions?

[@Narcase]

Thanks, as a noob, this helps me figure out "What's this for?"

[@AlfredoHernandez-vr3wc]

I bought mine REI Half Dome plus 2 at ECO thrift store for $16.27.Nothing wrong with it.

[@Podcastage]

Great Video! Very helpful!

[@bikercasper6130]

I have the Euerka Apex2 now and going to buy the Euerka Down Range 2 person 3 season tent. I use the MRS Groundhog stakes. Campmor has the Euerka Down Range 2 for $289.94

[@edsknife]

Came here looking for the "Rei 2" theme from Evangelion; never thought I'd get an in-depth review for tents. Maybe search results know what I'm looking for better than I know

[@opalprestonshirley1700]

Great video. Good over all tent, light weight and affordable. Thanks. atb

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Opal Preston Shirley Yea I agree. A pretty good tent for the money. Thanks for watching and commenting. It's noticed and appreciated. -Krik

[@uncatila]

That Sasqeatch is out there.

[@io2738]

U should put the pegs in at a 45 degree angle

[@LC_46]

Hi! I can't pick between this one or the North Face Stormbreaker 2. Which one would you suggest?

[@arocbuild]

this was extremely helpful. Thank You.

[@sarevok6]

Excellent video, thanks!

[@slaQ83]

Great showing of the tent, although your camera guy could stand to do a workshop or two :P

[@sarsaparila]

I'm a big fan. Do you use this tent backpacking? What is the coldest temperature you have ever used this in? Are there any other 2 person tents in this price range that you have experience with or would recommend?

[@robertmcclelland7201]

Great Video Great Tent

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

You're welcome. Let me know if I can help in your decision or if you have any questions. -Krik

[@MultiMrbrownbear]

Awesome review, very helpful

[@jamesbrennan3744]

I think it's important to point out that NO TENT is waterproof under particularly fowl conditions. If the rain is continuous over an extended period and you're on the move daily, your tent will get wet, inside and out. Breaking camp in the rain and setting up in the rain guarantees against water tightness. The best way to remain comfortable and dry is to have a small, super-light, waterproof bivy sack to pitch inside your tent. The best, but most expensive bivy for this purpose at $250, is the "Outdoor Research Alpine Bivy" which is ABSOLUTELY waterproof, top, bottom, and throughout, and made of breathable "gortex" material. So even if your main protective tent is awash in rain water, you'll still be warm, dry, and able to get a good night's sleep inside the bivy. I got caught in the remnants of a hurricane coming in off the Pacific Ocean while walking south down the Cassiar Road (Route 37) in remote western British Columbia. It rained HARD and the wind blew HARD for 8 straight days and nights. Being able to pitch the bivy inside the tent saved me. I was able to sleep dry and comfortable for the whole 8 days as I walked 15 miles each day. I would never go camping anywhere overnight without my bivy as backup. And if the weather is particularly pleasant, you can forget the tent and just pitch the bivy. It can accommodate a sleeping bag and an inflatable pad, and has no-see-um mosquito protection. And it even has a little anti-claustrophobic headroom for sitting up on elbows. And if worse comes to worst, the whole thing zips up snug and tight. I use it in combo with the "REI Pasage 2" tent under review in this video. It's a fast, simple, full-featured tent (but just a might heavy by a pound or so), and when used in conjunction with the "OR Alpine Bivy" (or it's gortex equivalent) it's an unbeatable combo.

[@ruprechtmboy7921]

Foul, unless you're being attacked by barnyard birds.

[@jliverty]

do you found any problem with this tent so far? My question to you : 1. is it worth it from the weight of the tent to carry with you for a long hike? 2. when you purchased this, is the footprint included? 3. any problem with bug or water coming inside the tent? 4. What about the build material quality of the tent itself? Thx

[@gfa240]

Great video..Thanks for posting!

[@AvoidingChores]

Good review, early like the side entry and the fly really extending out

[@Sleeplesskangaroo]

GREAT REVIEW!!! I wish more people took the time to do this with tents. I am headed cross country, and I think you have sold me. What does is weigh?

[@DrBlackApple]

+Lee Kraemer 5lbs

[@toddwilkinson9476]

thank you krik for responding back,also i was wondering about your hammock video,i like the hammock you showed but i was wondering if you know of a good hammack that has mosquito net together and if you had any recommendations,thanks again.

[@MichaelCrawford42]

Great video! Looks like a nice place to rest my head. Question, can I use my Jetboil Flash in this? It's the red plaid one. Thanks!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

+Michael Crawford What do you mean "use" in it?

[@MichaelCrawford42]

Black Owl Outdoors Say it's super windy and it keeps falling over outside. Would it be safe to heat some water in this tent to make chow?

[@smokingsamosa]

ventilated area, such as the porch with the door open, should (SHOULD) be okay

[@VistasNatureWildlifeFilms]

Good video, thanks for sharing.

[@gravityprone]

Thanks for the great review. I happened upon it, and was interested, sense there weren't really any reviews when I bought mine. I chuckled at the fly and peg struggle as it also happened to me. I have only used mine on one outing in NM, and never in the rain. Have you been rained on yet, and if so how did the floor seams hold up? Its a worry of mine. Thanks again.

[@iammorbius4925]

Black owl outdoors, has penguin in logo. Promising.

[@WildMedGuru1]

Great review!

[@garrettgallardo4812]

Try putting in stakes angled away from tent

[@bigfootbushcraft7063]

Awe tent bud i dnt know if you can do a video or just answer but why did you choose the carbon steel mora rather than the stainless steel companion?

[@TNPFan]

As a newbie, I am wondering how more experienced backpackers “extend” the footprint to cover the vestibule? My pack is not waterproof and it would be nice to protect the bottom. Thanks!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Sometimes I will carry an additional small ground tarp if I’m expecting lots of rain.

[@fartman10284]

Setup tent at home. Cut a piece of tarp in the shape of vestibule, install grommets using a repair kit, use the included stakes for the tarp. Buy new and better stakes for tent.

[@jordan81795]

You should do a review on the mountain Mage Apollo tent , seen it on amazon a couple days ago.

[@lukezacny]

Awesome video man! Is there anyway I can get a link to this Product?!

[@rickdavis2235]

www.rei.com/product/110837/rei-co-op-passage-2-tent?CAWELAID=120217890003721439&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=30320809120&CATCI=pla-423706939561&cm_mmc=PLA_Google%7C404_143615%7C1108370001%7Cnone%7C_kenshoo_clickid_%7Cpla-423706939561&lsft=cm_mmc:PLA_Google_LIA%7C404_143615%7C1108370001%7Cnone%7C_kenshoo_clickid_&kclid=_kenshoo_clickid_&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6J2OzrKX5QIVB77ACh1V2gsCEAQYASABEgID3vD_BwE

[@ankhatum]

this really looks like the half dome

[@ampao]

hey guys! love your videos. just subscribed. any tips in setting up a tent when its already raining?

[@mattkins752]

Plan

[@AbdulrahmanAlHaideri]

Thank you bro :)

[@paulsir1500]

Thanks!!!!

[@Kaledrums]

Flat ground is important, but remember to look above you for widow makers. Branches that can fall off the trees etc. Rude awaeking if one falls and hits you.

[@rootchino]

Wouldn't you want the rain fly in the top of the bag, incase of a sudden rainshower? No one wants to soak their shelter with-in the first 5mins. Setting up the rain fly first you can easily setup a tent under it in the middle of a downpour and be totally dry.

[@nickk3016]

thats not how it works idiot

[@brandonwhittle5074]

For this tent and many others, that is actually "how it works" if you take the footprint. You don't have to do it that way, but it is definitely an option.

[@TragoudistrosMPH]

How do you set up these tents in the rain? Can the tent be set up under the rainfly? There is a lot of mesh...

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

I'm going to do a video on the OneLink sleep system from ENO. It includes a bug net. But their system is modular. Hennessy Hammock makes pretty cool hammock sleeping systems. You can check them out as well. -Krik

[@jimmyhendrix4495]

I tried having a fire inside the tent, bad idea! The whole thing went up in flames.

[@Vencarter]

Great video! Unfortunately its no longer $160 its now $349 :( But great vid!

[@BlackOwlOutdoors]

Are you certain about that? I just checked their site, it says 159. Do you live in North America? -Krik

[@Vencarter]

BlackOwlOutdoors Oh, I see my mistake, I was looking at the "Dash 2". My bad, I see it is indeed 159.

[@SubUrbanNinja-EDC]

If it comes with a footprint, why will you not show us and use it?

[@tonyrome3119]

did I see a seem in that tub floor?

[@daayuanyt3014]

“Hey wassup turtles”

[@Pladdz12345]

Good video good sound... bunch of babies complaining here.. geez

[@evanswny]

Are you high?

[@TheGoatMumbler]

I hope you're not allergic to poison ivy.

[@willmontague7972]

hey, im not a turtle.

[@yunietalvarez5530]

yeah that was so fast..

[@nemezote]

Come on man...on camera mic... Get a lavalier mic, and put the camera on a tripod. I can't even hear you. All of that good work, wasted.

[@thegriffinsden3383]

Dr.Kutulu I can hear him just fine....

[@SubUrbanNinja-EDC]

Fire the camera man...or camera woman. LOL

[@Texonite]

Dude, you should really relax more ;)

[@skepticalmechanic]

Old video...

[@ajc1080]

Because there are only 6 stakes (and I don't like messing with guy lines anyways) I just get the stakes in that outer loop of the tent's pole strap then attach the fly to the stake and that brings the bottom edge of the fly away from the tent. How you set it up in the video, if you didn't actually use the guy lines and it rained the ends of the tent will get a little wet. Ask me how I know ;-)

[@mrmusdtard2]

Really good video ,thankyou