| The first thing you should be thinking about is weight. | | | | enclosed, and do a fine job of keeping the weather off |
| Specifically, you should be thinking about light weight. | | | | of you and your gear. |
| Serious hikers carry as little as possible, and this is no | | | | If you are out with the family or a group, of course the |
| exception to sleeping gear. So always start with the | | | | shelter size will increase. But the weight does not |
| smallest you can carry. | | | | necessarily have to increase with it. Take the |
| After any time spent on the trail, you will be considering | | | | construction material, the pole and stakes and such, |
| every ounce on your back, believe this to be true. | | | | and dole them out evenly amongst your crew. With |
| Shelter is no different in this regard. So regard the | | | | everyone carrying his or her fair share the load can |
| lightest of them all, the tarp. This can weigh just a few | | | | stay comfortably light. |
| ounces, but can be turned into a serviceable sleeping | | | | Hiking tents come in more shapes and sizes than you |
| quarters in nothing flat. | | | | can imagine, and there are many very good brands to |
| But since the weather is highly likely to be an issue, you | | | | choose from. Just remember to go with the lighter |
| will some more protection. For the solo act, or a close | | | | every time, and your body will thank you when it lays |
| couple, a tiny two-person tent or personal bivouac bag | | | | down to rest in one. |
| are ideal. These have floors and walls, can be fully | | | | |