As a backpacking family there have been 2 shelters which have covered every camping eventuality we have ever needed. These two shelters have provided space enough for a base camp set up as well as being a light weight option for backpacking. These two shelters can be pared down for solo backpacking use when required or used in combination to provide a comfortable set up for up to 4 family members.
The first shelter is a Golite Hex 3, with a standard mesh inner, the second is a simple light weight silnylon tarp with an appropriate inner noseeum nest for one person.
Both shelters offer incredible floor space for the weight. Both the Hex 3 and tarp set up combined weigh less than 2.5 kilo's.
For solo hiking spring to autumn the tarp and bug bivi cover that eventuality. For solo use in winter, the outer shell of the Hex, which can shed snow, is used on its own pitched low to the ground, with the tarp acting as a groundsheet inside the Hex rather than acting is its usual role as a shelter.
Two family members - the Hex on its own provides plenty of room.
When we are fortunate enough to have everyone coming along, then the two shelters in combination provide all the space needed. The Hex becomes the bedroom area and the tarp is the covered kitchen area, come drying room come dry storage or drying room.
When we are fortunate enough to have everyone coming along, then the two shelters in combination provide all the space needed. The Hex becomes the bedroom area and the tarp is the covered kitchen area, come drying room come dry storage or drying room.
Furthermore younger family members love tipi's and A frame type shelters. The tarp in particular provides great fun as it can be pitched in so many different configurations.
The key to comfort in the Hex is to ensure that everyone arranges their sleeping area so that feet are pointed to the doorway. This means anyone can leave without having to climb over anyone else.
Prices for such shelters are also more than reasonable for the quality and based upon my own experience will last and last for years. The Golite Hex 3 is no longer available, but a replacement called the Shangri La 3 is now available from the Golite European distributor for around 300 Euro's at this time, a larger 5 person option is also available. A medium sized quality tarp such as the Wrath Outdoor Kite 2, and a bug bivi - will cost around £150 directly from the Wrath Outdoor site, so all up around £400.00. Bargain when you consider the number of camping trips a family will make over the years.
* Update 10/07/2015
Golite no longer trades but alternatives to the Hex would be available from the Luxe Outdoors range available at www.backpackinglight.co.uk
Many Thanks for reading
Way of The Backpacker
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