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Tarptent in the Southeast?

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Josh Platt BPL Member
PostedJul 21, 2011 at 4:28 pm

I have been really interested, for almost 2 years, to purchase a double rainbow for the lady and I. However, living in North Carolina, the typical places we can backpack are extremely humid for 4-5 months out of the year. If we drive 3-5 hours, which isn't a big deal, we can sort of escape the humidity.

Does anyone have/tested a Tarptent in this region? Does it perform well in humid climates?

I hate waking up in a muggy tent, and so does the girlfriend. I cannot yet convince her to sleep under just a tarp. And honestly, the older I get, I sort of lean toward tents.

PostedJul 21, 2011 at 5:31 pm

We live in NC, and have been using various Tarptents since 2004. They have performed very well, though of course in the right conditions we'll get condensation inside and outside the tent. We carry a small pack towel to wipe down the tent, and the silnylon dries quickly. Not sure what else I can tell you other than we've been very happy with them — everyone is different and you might hate them.

As for specific models, we owned a Double Rainbow and sold it for a Six Moons Designs Lunar Duo. The LD has significantly more interior room than the DR, at the expense of slightly fussier setup and not as much wind resistance (in theory anyway.) Both are very well made and it's nothing against the Tarptent brand as I own a Moment for my solo hikes. But I would recommend at least taking a look at the Lunar Duo.

Josh Platt BPL Member
PostedJul 21, 2011 at 6:10 pm

Sounds like it is at least worth a shot. I don't mind a little condensation. However, if I wake up feeling like I am in a sauna, I freak out, haha.

I will take a look at the Lunar Duo as well.

PostedJul 21, 2011 at 6:12 pm

I say go for it, especially the Double Rainbow which has lots of mesh.
I have a Contrail, live in Florida, primarily hike in the Southeast (Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia…) and rarely have condensation issues. The thing you have to be very conscious of is your camp selection. This is key in minimizing condensation.
If at all possible, avoid low-laying areas, areas close to water, open fields (trees soak up a lot of moisture), and grassy areas. Leave the beaks up whenever you can to increase airflow. All of these factors are especially crucial on cool, windless nights.
That may sound like a lot to have to think about while you're out there, but it's not hard at all to find a good spot.

PostedJul 21, 2011 at 6:19 pm

I am happy with my Lunar Duo, but am still somewhat new using it so I still have issues with condensation at times…granted it is usually due to my site selections…but I definitely echo the statement to check it out. It is a palace for my wife and I…

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