Home is where I lay my head at night

After beating myself up over the decision, I finally purchased my portable shelter. I have been agonizing over two specific tents, a 2 person tent that's just big enough for me, and a 4 person tent that's just big enough for me and my ego.

They were only $10 apart in price, but the size and weight difference are considerable. I really didn't think the smaller of the two would be sufficient. With it's 6x5 floor space, I cannot stretch out my full 6'1 frame. 6x5 is a hoax, anyways. The tent isn't square. It's a teardrop shape, so it peaks at one end, and is only a foot and a half wide. The next size up tent is 9x7. Plenty of room all around. And it's a perfect rectangle in design, so no lost space.

Both tents fit into the frame pack I used to measure them. When I am trekking through the desert, not being overwhelmed by the weight is a big factor. But then, a comfortable sleep is important the longer the trip goes. Being tired and hiking 20 miles don't go well together. Also, sharing space with my food supply is a factor. It's good to be able to carry food, when you're hiking in the last few acres of America where there isn't a 7-11 on every corner.

Finally, I decided that I'll end up going the same route with a tent that I will with backpacks. I'll get both! I figured that the smaller one will do fine, for my test runs. For long, extended distance trips, the small one will be perfect. I can sleep in it, I can sit up and write my logs at night, and it's light and gives me lots of space for storing gear. For trips that are more of a getaway nature, where I will be doing more camping and resting than hiking, the bigger tent will be better. It allows me more comfort, and the extra weight is not as much of a factor, since I will be on the move less.