I’m looking at picking up a new backpacking tent. Right now, the only tent I have that’s close to backpacking-viable is a Forceatt 3-person tent from Amazon. It’s been great for car camping but weighs about 6.5 lbs.
I’ve narrowed my options down to the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 and the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P, and price is my biggest factor now. Is the Big Agnes worth the extra $300+? It’s about a pound lighter, but I’m not sure if that’s enough to justify the difference. Also curious about durability and how each handles storms and high winds.
Any insights from people who’ve used either or both? I’m just getting into backpacking camping, so I’d really appreciate the advice!
Edit: I went ahead and picked up the Big Agnes while it’s on sale. Also grabbed the BA Boundary Deluxe sleeping pad since I needed one and it was also on sale. Now just need a good sleeping bag!
Patrice said:
I have the HV UL3, and I love it! Great space, and light enough to carry solo if needed.
My main concern is durability. I don’t have a lot of disposable income, so I need something that will hold up well, especially in storms or high winds. How has yours done in tougher weather?
@Linden
Big Agnes tents are built to last, and they’re popular among thru-hikers because of the design and build quality.
I have a 13-year-old BA Fly Creek that still works great. I also had a BA inflatable pad that started leaking after 12 years, and BA sent me a new one without me even asking for a replacement.
@Linden
I haven’t tested it in extreme conditions yet, but it’s held up well in rain. Keep in mind the rainfly is nylon, so it’s lighter but not as waterproof as some heavier materials.
@Linden
I’ve used mine in some serious storms, including ones with tornado warnings and hail. It held up really well, but the key is staking it down properly and using all the guyout points. I also recommend getting the optional footprint—it’ll protect the floor and give you more pitching options.
I swapped out the cordage for longer guy lines and added extra stakes to handle more wind. The tent fabric is lightweight, but with about 50 nights in it over three years, it’s still in excellent shape.
@Zach
This is super helpful, thank you! Quick question: I just got the tent, and it doesn’t look like it has seam seal. Do I need to add that, or is it already waterproofed? Should I add extra waterproofing spray?
@Linden
It should have taped seams, so no need to add seam seal. The rainfly is treated with silicone and fully waterproof. I haven’t added any extra waterproofing, but I did spray permethrin on the inner fabric around the doors to keep ticks away (they’re pretty common where I camp). That’s worked well without damaging the fabric.
@Zach
Good to know! I’m in the Midwest, where the weather’s unpredictable, so it’s helpful to hear it holds up well. I like the idea of using permethrin too, since there are a lot of ticks here. Thanks again for all the tips!
I’ve owned both the Grand Mesa and the UL3. Eventually upgraded to the UL3, which was a smart choice. We later moved on to a triplex, but the UL3 was a great tent while we used it.
Denver said:
I’ve owned both the Grand Mesa and the UL3. Eventually upgraded to the UL3, which was a smart choice. We later moved on to a triplex, but the UL3 was a great tent while we used it.
How did they compare? I know the UL3 is probably better, but is it really worth the extra cost? How did both tents handle storms and wind?
@Linden
Both did fine in storms. The biggest difference for me was space and the door placement. Side doors on the UL3 are way better, and the weight difference is a nice plus. My husband and I had enough room in the UL3, but the 2P felt cramped.
Jaime said: @Van
Just a heads-up: some Hubba Hubba tents had pole issues. My friend’s pole snapped on night one of a week-long trip.
I heard about that—they had a faulty batch and offer free replacements. MSR has generally had a good reputation, so I’d still consider it a solid option, especially at a sale price.
There are other tents I’d choose over the BA Copper Spur 3 for backpacking, but the Kelty Grand Mesa isn’t one of them. Kelty is fine for what it is, but Big Agnes is just on a different level.
Asa said:
There are other tents I’d choose over the BA Copper Spur 3 for backpacking, but the Kelty Grand Mesa isn’t one of them. Kelty is fine for what it is, but Big Agnes is just on a different level.
Any suggestions around $400 or less, including a footprint?
@Linden
I’m a Big Agnes fan too but recently picked up a Marmot Tungsten UL, based on good reviews and personal recommendation. Held up well in a rainstorm, though I haven’t used it much yet. You might check reviews on ExpertVoice or similar sites for more details.