I have been experimenting with different techniques and gear to try to reduce weight, but up until now I have been using standard dual wall tents normally with another hiking buddy. I want to try some solo backpacking with other techniques such as using a tarp and bivy combination or a hammock. As I don’t know what I will or won’t like I don’t want to invest a great deal of money in new gear until I have a better idea of what I like and what is important to me.
I currently have a REI Quarter Dome 2 person tent. I could just use the footprint, rain fly and poles. Bugs will be a problem, so I would use my headnet and sleeping bag for protection. This, isn’t that far out of my comfort zone, but it could be something I could try for free.
I also have a $20 non camping hammock and a Wal-Mart blue tarp. I could use the tarp over the hammock or just the ground cloth and again use the headnet for bug protection.
Neither of these options would save me that much weight, but it would give me some good ideas of what I should look for in a new shelter.
My motivations for this are mainly is I want to reduce weight (especially when going solo), try something new, and experience the outdoors a bit more (stargazing from my sleeping bag).
Does anyone have any other ideas? I am willing to try some very simple/cheap MYOG projects. I know renting or borrowing is an option. If anyone has a good source to rent lightweight gear please let me know.
