I was at Target yesterday (Cathedral City, CA), browsing through the camping stuff, when I noticed some tent clearance sales. They had two small tents, an Eddie Bauer for $15, and a “Trail (something) Authority” for $12! So, I thought, “What the h@11”. I bought them both, justifying it by thinking I may be able to loan them to future hiking partners, thereby not having to share my own 2-person tent.
The Eddie Bauer amazed me. The only downside to this tent is that it’s a little short. I’m 6’1″ and my feet and head touch the tent when laying down. If it weren’t for this limiting factor, or if I were shorter, I would actually pack this tent. Also, this tent packs VERY small and weighs 3.2 pounds! It is also freestanding and very easy to set up. It has internal poles ala Black Diamond. (I can’t believe I’m comparing a $15 tent to a Black Diamond, but it’s true…) The front door can be screened or closed, and there’s a vent window in the back. The two sides have a cheesy print that actually looks kinda cool when inside. If you’re shorter than 6 feet tall, go to Target and buy two of these tents right now.
The Trail (something) Authority Tent is also an incredible bargain at $12. It’s floor dimensions are 7′ x 5′, making it a roomy 2-person tent, with plently of headroom for taller folks. It weighs 4.4 pounds (I weighed it) and packs down pretty small. It’s got a netted top and rainfly, and a nice design. The tent clips to the two poles like my Sierra Designs Sirius tent, making setup a snap (pun). It is freestanding as well. The only downside to this tent is the weak construction: The weak seams and netting feel as if they could be ripped if not careful, although you still get your money’s worth many times over.
Chris M
Palm Springs, CA
