Big Agnes - Copper Spur HV UL2

First off, the non-negotiables you listed are spot-on, waterproofing is really important especially if you're planning on using the tent in all types of weather. Top choices: - MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-person tent - fully waterproof, freestanding, and super compact when packed down - Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 - it's a bit lighter than the MSR, but still plenty durable. And IMO if you want to go even lighter, the Nemo Hornet 2P is a good ultralight choice but the only downside with these tents is that they need trekking poles for setup. But you can always use hiking sticks or even tie the poles to the tent if needed. And they're so easy to pitch, it's not a huge hassle. The list could go on but you can try [11 Best 2-Person Tents for Camping and Backpacking](https://alaskanarrows.com/11-best-2-person-tent-camping-and-backpacking/) for other choices Hope this helps mate

I just bought this tent online for 284.99 which included tax. That's us dollars though.

I thought so too. I received it. Has tags. The credit card charge shows as Cao Ky Duyen and not Simolary(business name). I wish the tag specifically said copper spur hv ul 2. Instead it says copper spur hv ul Then the various options they offer with a check mark next to 2 person and a check mark next to orange. I'm going to set it up now in the kitchen to verify it's the right one!

Copper Spur is a classic for a reason! Awesome tent.

I have for hiking Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, it's a 2-places, it doesn't have a lot of space, but otherwise it's great. [https://www.alpiniste.fr/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-tente-2-places/](https://www.alpiniste.fr/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-tente-2-places/)

The copper spur and hornet are excellent. No experience with the tiger wall; it could be great and I just don’t know.  I use a nemo dagger and am very happy with it. 

The wife and I have had a Copper Spur HV UL2 for several years and it is frankly an amazing piece of gear for it's weight. It has made a full AT through hike + probably close to another thousand miles so we've gotten our money's worth. I took it for an overnight last weekend actually. All of those miles backpacking and the only damage it has seen was when I snagged the netting but it has been fine with a netting patch on it.

the zippers are shite, and so is the BA warrantee. the copper spur will hold up for a few trips, but I would not recommend it for extended hikes - where you will be living in it for more than a few days at a time. the rainfly design is goofy, and gets a pool on the roof, and the way it opens up basically funnels water directly into the tent. seems like it was designed by a bunch of corporate dummies sitting around a table thinking of things that would look cool.

I have been on some tough pitches in snow, storm, and high wind with the Copper Spur and it has held up. I have four years on it, have rewaterproofed once. I haven't babied it, but neither have I abused it. I would say it's most susceptible to wind, especially if you don't use all they guy outs. Overall, I would recommend it.

I have a ba HV UL 2 long and love the thing. It’s my goto freestanding at the moment.

I love my copper spur! It’s very similar to the dragonfly.

I own a copper spur hvul2 long and love it. It’s my goto freestanding.

I use a free standing because I normally need my hands free for kiddos (or even when I camp with the Boy Scouts) so no poles I like my BA copper spur

I’m not very experienced with backpacking/through hiking, but if paying a few hundred dollars more isn’t a major disincentive for you I suggest paying more to get a lighter weight tent that packs down smaller. Most of us who aren’t super experienced tend to bring more stuff than those who really know how to go super light. So saving a kilo of weight and significant packed volume becomes very convenient for us less austere campers. E.g., I have a 2 person Big Agnes Copper Spur UL that has a packed weight (including tent, fly, stakes, guy lines and stuff sack) of less than 3 lbs. 3.5 with the footprint. Mine is 7 years old. I think the newest version is a few ounces heavier. I’m not recommending this specific tent necessarily. There are other tents from BA and other brands that are similar wrt weight and packed size. Most retail from $400US and up. But I often see sales with 30-50% discounts. I’ve only used freestanding tents. There might be better alternatives wrt weight & size for tents that require trekking poles but I haven’t researched them. If you’re talking about car camping or very short distances to carry your gear where weight & size are secondary considerations, then totally disregard the preceding.

I have a Big Agnes copper spur hv ul2 tent. I think it's right around 3lbs total and is fairly small; I just strap it on my rear rack although in the future I may try to pack it in a waterproof bag and tie the poles to the top-tube. I was also really tempted by the even smaller Nemo dragonfly bikepack, which is super compact and has some nicer features, including a great waterproof bag that is built to fit between drop bars, but it was almost $200 more. I'm also trying to get a smaller sleeping bag. I just bought a synthetic-fill bag, but it doesn't compress as much as I'd prefer and I was still cold in 45-degree (Fahrenheit) weather, which according to the rating it should be very comfortable in. So I may look at down bags, which supposedly can pack very small, but are expensive.

I have that tent and it’s great for one person but a bit cramped for two. It will fit two but I hope you’re very good friends, which apparently you are. The only downside is the zippers are very easy to get caught, at least on the older models. Still, a great tent. Spend the extra bucks and get the foot print so you can pitch it only using the fly. Nice option when conditions warrant it.

Big Agnes Copper Spur 2 UL HV. Go with the footprint option. It allows you to set up the fly without the canopy when conditions warrant. On sale at REI right now.

Big Agnes’s Copper Spur HV UL. Great tent. The foot print is extra but is really nice as it allows you to set up the fly without the tent canopy. Then it serves more like a tarp when appropriate and saves you weight. Nice option. You can find them in the upper end of your price range if you watch the sales.

I bought a used one probably 8 years ago and the Big Agnes is still going strong. Perfect for one person, I seriously can’t imagine two people squeezed in there!

Rei has the [Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2](https://www.rei.com/product/164193/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-tent) on sale right now for 370$ down from 530$. Went in store and picked mine up yesterday. The deal was too good to pass up. I grabbed a footprint off amazon for it since REI doesn't have them for sale anymore, but they do sell the bikepacking footprint (footprint for the bikepacking just reaches out further to cover under the vestibules). They also have the long version and [it's also on sale for 405$ down from 579$.](https://www.rei.com/product/204104/big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-tent-long) I suspect these will go quick as just yesterday they had the UL1 listed for sale but it's gone today. With the year long return policy as a member this is probably the best deal you will find at the moment.

HV UL2 is on sale at REI right now for 370$

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. Best ever.

Agreed. Have a big Agnes I use for a family of 3 and it works well

It’s a great option for a double walled, free standing tent. The 2 person version of this tent is snug (width) - not sure if that is an issue being light sleepers.

That is a very good tent. I had one. It's just me, but I like the extra room. Since you need a 2P tent, what you have is one of the best choices out there, and the weight isn't bad. The only reason I got rid of my UL2 was because the X-Dome 1+ came out. I'm still awaiting mine in April. Both tents are freestanding, which I wanted. The X-Dome 1+ is smaller and lighter, but it has more room than most one person tents. The extra room is why I've always use a 2P tent.

Depending on budget, there are several 2-person tents, many good ones already mentioned. For an inexpensive treking pole tent, look at Lanshan. I had a BA Copper Spur HV UL2. A very nice tent, and if you can get it on sale, not so expensive. I went with this tent because it was freestanding. I had treking pole tents, but they didn't always work where I wanted to setup. I just put in an order for a Durston X-Dome 1+, which is in between 1 and 2 person tents. I won't get mine until the second batch in April, but the reviews look good, and the price of $369 seems reasonable for what it is. The X-Dome 1+ is freestanding, unlike the X-Mid.

I have a kelty 4p tent that is too heavy to backpack with, I love the tent, for car camping. I just bought myself the big Agnes cooper spur hv ul 2 for my dog and I. With the foot print it weighs in at 3lbs and packs down really small. My kelty doesn’t.

Why not consider the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2? This will fit you comfortably, is double walled, and is super durable. 2lb 11oz (2 oz less than the Lanshan 2) and frequently falls below $250. Wife and I are 6’ and 6’3” and we fit fine. Edit- just saw copper spur was already recommended.

If the Freelite 2p’s build is anything like the 3p’s I once bought and returned: take the copper spur. The freelite 3p did not have a roof that covered the entrance when the zippers were open. You cant get into the tent when its raining and keep the bathtub floor dry. My freelites zipper on the rain fly was stitched onto a plastic band, not cotton. It also wasnt taped. Result: very leaky rainfly zipper over the bathtub. I was baffled by the lack of engineering MSR put into that tent.

A little bit heavier but I love my Big Agnes Copper Spur HVUL2. About 3lbs for a very doable 2p tent. The Long version or the 3P are both large abet heavier as well.

This!! My husband and I joke that the big agnes copper spur saved our marriage. When we are solo we have trekking poles style shelters, but when we are together, the ease of a freestanding tent prevents arguments and the weight is easier to split between us. Here[https://pmags.com/tent-of-wonder-big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-2019](https://pmags.com/tent-of-wonder-big-agnes-copper-spur-hv-ul2-2019) is my husband’s review.

The 2P is perfect for one person with a little bit of space along the side. I use the 2P and am 6’2” without it being too short. Able to keep my backpack in the tent too which was important for me

I did use a Big Agnes Copper 2-person HV UL2 and it was great, quite roomy for me and my gear, doesn’t take much space or weight.

I have the HV UL2, but no experience with the MSR. I like it the UL2 and it seems well made. Goes up easy. I could get by with less space but I like the extra room using it as a 1-person tent. I’m always thinking of getting something lighter to shave a pound or so off but it’s getting the job done. I have worse infractions of the UL religion than that.

I have that tent. It is solid. You can fit 2 people if you are exhausted and just going to crash, but it's comfortable for 1 person. Especially if you need to pull some gear inside with you.

What Big Agnes model do you have? I just got the Copper Spur HV UL 2, and I’m wondering what size pack you use and how you carry it? I got a 55L Osprey and I’m thinking it won’t fit too well inside the bag due to its longer length poles… I’ll probably strap it under the pack during travel

I own the copper spur HV UL2 bikepacking. What it lacks in durability it trades for lightweight and packability. The materials are selected for weight optimization. And they feel thin and flimsy. My biggest complaint with it is I paired it with a Big Agnes Rapide SL insulated tent floor airpad and the two materials (tent floor against the airpad) results in a very loud noise with every tiny movement. Like, the whole camping area will hear me if I switch sleeping positions. This was a massive oversight by the designers, and it is upsetting that I spent my money on what I thought would be an ideal match.

I own and have used both extensively (my Fly Creek is a 1-man, but same architecture). As others have said, durability is an issue for long-term use and neither tent is meant to withstand an active snow storm. This isn't a knock on the tents, it's just the reality of ultralight design. The material won't fall apart on you, you just have to be more mindful of how you treat these tents compared to something beefier. As far as differences go, I much prefer the Copper Spur unless weight is a big priority. It has a more stable and easier-to-set-up pole structure, and the single door on the Fly Creek is pretty incovenient.

Depends on the hikes. I have the copper spur and it’s my go to tent but I probably would not bring it on multiday trips above the treeline or wherever the wind speeds can reach around 20m/s or more. 

I've been using a Copper Spur HV UL2 since 2018, but as a solo tent. But I'm 6' tall and 230 pounds.

I have the XMid Pro 2 and backpack with one of our huskies almost every trip. Mika is 45lbs, Max is 50lbs. Just one dog and me fit easily with extra room for gear. Two people and one of our dogs would work but be tight. (replaced a Strat Li but below applies to both tents) To protect the floor, I bring a full size z-fold pad (generic z-lite). I cut it into two pieces - about 1/3 and 2/3rds. I place them together to put where the dog will be sleeping. I cut it into two pieces so that I can use the 2/3rd piece under my pad in the event I get cold. They can still use the 1/3rd. I lay a costco quilt over the top of the pad. The like to "dig" sometimes. Between the pad and quilt, it protects the floor long enough until I can tell them to stop. For just casual walking in and out of the tent, laying down etc, there would be no need to protect the floor. Kneeling on a sharp rock or stick would probably do more damage than a dog stepping on the floor. We also have a Big Agnes UL2 and UL3 we've used for people and dogs. Only damage to any of the tents (first time out in a brand new UL3) was when I walked away with the dog in the tent and she paw'd at the screen and ripped it. Luckily, she hit the pocket so it didn't affect the door.

I backpack with one of our Siberian Huskies (one is 45lbs, other is 55lbs) using either and XMid Pro 2 or Copper Spur HV UL2. I'm about 5'10". I like having some room in the tent for stuff or just hanging out. Both of the above tents work great for this.

Comparing the Copper Spur HV UL2 to UL3: a 3 person tent will be about 25% heavier (12 oz, 35g), only marginally more expensive, and the extra space will help with keeping your bags inside. To me, the worst part is the extra weight, and the extra size of the tent would prevent it from fitting in the side pouch on my bag. But if you're strapping it underneath anyway, and you're not weight-constrained, maybe it's fine. I went with the UL2 because I think it's fine to leave my pack in the vestibule of the tent, only taking the essentials inside. You can possibly find space for it near your feet if you're not big people. After all, when you're at camp, all the bulky things aren't in the pack any more! I like my tent, but there are lots of good brands out there. You might find a better deal online, but check your local outdoor store to get a feel for how big/heavy they are. If feasible, buy it there, too! I liked my REI Half Dome tent but it was so much larger and heavier than the Copper Spur, and I'm glad I replaced it.

Yeah, got it in June of last year on the deal posted somewhere here. I also just picked up a Copper Spur HV UL2 for $210 this weekend from sams. They seem very similar and I love free standing tents. Plan is to use ul2 for solo or aspect 3 with wife/kid(s).

Big agnus, copper spur HV UL 1 or 2 person tent, pair it with a NeoAir pad, get the wide size

depends on the use, I have an REI half dome 3-4 person which is perfect for 2 or 3 with two vestibules (storage covered area that’s part of the fly) for car camping and use a 3 in memory foam pad that fits perfectly and an Big Agnes ultra light 2 person I got during the REI garage sale that I use for backpacking and light camping. The half dome I think I used my dividends and 20% off. Love both

I also had a pole fail on my copper spur ul2. But it was a breeze to replace and the pole splint worked fine in the meantime.

Was in a similar spot , I went with a copper spur UL2. I didn’t use a tyvek sheet and moved that weight to a larger tent. I enjoy having my hiking pack inside the tent and the extra room in the tent was welcomed

I’m your height, solo woman doing a NOBO LASH in April. I just got the Durston XDome +1. It’s 35 oz and has enough room for my pack/gear in rainy weather. My usual tent is a BA Copper Spur UL2 at a little over 3 lbs and it’s great but has a larger footprint and is bulkier than what I want for 5-6 weeks on trail. People get hung up on UL but hike your own hike and if you like your tent, take it!

I have the tarptent you are looking at, plus ba copper spur ul 2 and 3, plus a fly creek 2. The double rainbow dw is roughly the weight of the fly creek with superior capabilities to the copper spur 2.

I love my Copper Spur ul2. I would recommend checking out their bikepacking version of this tent because it might be a better fit for your other uses listed. I do wish I knew they had a long version of the Copper Spur when I got mine because it is a little on the short side for me. I'm 6'4". But then again most 2p tents are gonna be a touch short for me.

I can vouch for the Big Agnes Copper Spur. Ive had it 4 years, and do not use a footprint. I have no holes, it holds up in windy conditions, and packs so well into my pack. I'm 5 7" and have ample room. BTW mine is the 2 person. Just in case I wanna bring someone.

I use a big Agnes copper spur 2. I'm 6 foot 3 and fit comfortably with my gear. I've also used it for two people before and was still comfortable

You will probably end up hearing the Big Agnes copper spur 2 person tent. It's a very popular backpacking tent and is great. I've had mine for over ten years and still use it. It's a bit out of budget. Currently on Sale for 370 on their website but it's worth it

Big Agnes Copper Spur 2. Perfect for 2 normal intimate people that are ok slightly touching eachother at times, not strangers. If you are extra fluffy or have a dog, you need a 3 or 4 person tent.

Do a copper spur 3 for 2 people. Plenty of room for 3/4 pound penalty. I have the previous model and had the previous model 2 and upgraded because the 2 wasn't quite up to what I wanted. Split the load. It'll be good.

I’ve had the Copper Spur 2 person tent for about 10 years and love it. Has held up too high winds and hail at 10,000ft + many times. However I only used it once with another person and it was too tight a space. So, would recommend, but get there 3P.

That is what i would buy as well. The double side doors are really nice.

A buddy has the original BA Copper Spur 2 UL (not the HV). We have taken it on a few trips and it's held up really well. He's usually in it 10-12 nights per year for the last 4 years. It fits 2 very easily and it's not heavy, especially split up between two people. But, I'd still carry it into the field if I had one solo and was looking for a freestanding tent. The Copper Spur can also be pitched with the footprint and rain fly if you want a more open, or lighter tent. So you do have some flexibility if you want to go lighter weight and leave the inner at the car.

Gotta tell you that I bought the BA CS UL several years ago and the weight, packing size, ease of setup and quality of construction was worth every penny.

Ditto on the BA Copper Spur UL 2. Purchased mine in '18 for the JMT. Tried to go UL, but have gone full circle back to this tent. Took it on the Uinta Highline Trail in Utah this past August, where the afternoon hailstorms were mind blowing. This tent is a freaking bomb shelter.

Had a CS as well, survived more than it should have, had poles bending through gusts with all guy lines out (positioned into wind accordingly), surprised me how strong it was!

Fair play - sounds like you did everything right. I know my 2p CS had poles creaking at 40mph gusts so makes sense that wind at the wrong angle in the 40/50 range could cause a big failure in the TW. Wishing you all the best on the remainder of your journey!

Like some have said, I recommend more than one tent. I have a fairly inexpensive 10 person slumberland for when my bf and I are on long camping trips and want plenty of space for gear and room to stand up inside the tent. I have another inexpensive (don't recall the brand) 3p tent for short weekends car camping. I also have a significantly more expensive Big Agnes UL Copper Spur 2p for backpacking. Like anything it is hard to cross purpose tents. Think of it like cooking. You use different pots to cook spaghetti for 6 than you use to fry a single egg for yourself.

That looks more like SE Ok. I think your GPS is off by 4 hrs. Haha If I may - you want a 3 season tent that breathes so you can use it in the hot spring and late summer. Go to REI and learn about them, then buy on EBay. A 4 season tent will not breathe so well. Keep the vent open at night so condensation from your breath doesn’t collect or your tent will be soaked on the inside at sunrise. Warmth comes from your sleep system. Buy a decent air mattress (klymite? $90-100) and a sleep bag for 20-30f temps. I always use a cheap bag liner (keeps the bag from collecting body oils and adds 3-6 degrees of warmth, easily washable). Always go to bed with dry feet and loose; wool socks and loose base layer - think layers. And neck gator is a must if cold. If you afford a better sleeping bag, awesome. Most can’t. Also, the smaller the tent, the warmer. I have an REI one man quarterdome and love it. I also have a Big Agnes Spur (?) 2 man for me and my dog or wife and it is great. Maybe a bit too roomy. Bought both used. If you can afford new - go for it. [good website to learn about gear](https://www.cleverhiker.com/) Don’t over think it and just do it, then adjust. You can hike up the west side of that stream, climb over the ridge and backpack camp on /near the top. Park at the bridge, go upstream with the river on your right, it’s only about a half mile, maybe 3/4. Or for your first time, camp near your car. Good luck

The phoxx is a decent little tent buts it’s a bit of a squeeze if you’re broader/taller than average. I’ve set up with that all over the Peak District and once in the lakes in some fairly windy and wet weather and never had any serious issues. Replaced it this year with a big Agnes 2 man tent as I’ve ended up doing more bikepacking than backpacking over the last couple of years and I felt the extra space would be helpful.

I kid you not, I got an unused Big Ag copper spur 2 person from REI's used department for $58 recently. Was listed at $158 and she rang it up at $58. I would have said something but their union busting activities as of late leave me with no allegiance. Even $158 would have been a great price.

I have the UL2 and it’s a great tent. It looks like the design of both is very similar, but the tiger wall is slightly lighter. WRT durability the fabric is quite thin so I always carry a footprint, but no durability issues with about 2 weeks total use time. All that being said if you have multiple little ones both of these tents are probably going to be quite cramped for you. Even if you only have one I regret going with the two person over the three when I take my girlfriend camping with me.

Interesting! I’ve loved my Big Agnes UL2 so maybe I should just stick with the brand. Seems airflow is nice too.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL has a long version so you have more space at your feet. Otherwise at your height the sleeping bags are always in contact with the inner, and can get a little wet. 

Great tent. Would jump on it if you don’t have any other preferences. We push the shoulder seasons in the Rockies with a Big Agnes.

I have this tent as well great tent, personally I would prefer to buy from Backcountry or Public Lands or REI instead of Amazon, get the footprint as well which would be a separate purchase

I have this and while I like it I kind of wish I got an MSR instead. Nicer for the same weight

It held up getting clipped by a typhoon camped on the side of a mountain. The winds were intense enough that the crosspole very occasionally dipped down and touched me but it was otherwise very good. Many other tents collapsed, etc., but it was at a music festival so you can bet it was some of their first times camping. But yeah, that was the one and only time that's ever come close to happening so I would take that more as a positive. Anyway, the walls of the tent are solid at the bottom and that's enough to keep any wind off of you while lying down.

Excellent purchase. That tent has been good to me over the years.

I’ve got this exact tent and paid twice as much. I think the long is overkill for your use case. I’m almost 7’ and have a little extra length. If he’s 6’ he’ll have 14”-16” of extra length. As for the tent itself it’s fantastic, easy to setup, great in strong wind & rain, versatile. I’d definitely recommend it. Also get the footprint for the tent, will help preserve the floor, and acts as a moisture barrier.

I have the same one and it's a fantastic tent. I'm 6'5 and 230. I sleep with a wide pad and fit great.

Car camping I'm bringing the Gazelle T4. Easy set up, easy tear down. Loads of room. Can stand up straight. Backpacking, I'm bringing the Big Agnes Copper Spur. Light, roomy, breathable.

Yup, Copper Spur rules 🤘

I’ve got several tents and the one in your picture is one of them. Blackmail 3P I think. I’ve also got the copper spur. The black tail is a tank. I only use it for trips where there’s support, like ragbrai. I use the copper spur for overnight/easier riding trips. For actual bike packing / serious miles, I go with an ultra lite HMG mid-1. The black tail is cool and giant, but it’s a big heavy load too.

even in cold dry conditions Id get ice in my bag.. and it's hard to change or get dressed when you can't sit up. Copper Spur FTW

I have the same two tents and I totally agree. I only keep my Copper Spur as a backup.

I love my Copper Spur!

They are great tents and you don’t have to use trekking poles for them. On the Copper Spur it’s optional. Otherwise it’s a normal vestibule.

The critical feature for use on tent platforms is to be completely free-standing. Not semi-freestanding,  not mostly free-standing. 100% free-standing. I would recommend a tent with its own poles rather than a trekking pole tent for platform use. Our Big Agnes Copper Spur has worked well. We've never tried to share a single platform with another tent, but since we are not going solo we have a tent large enough for the two of us. The Whites can be a tough place to camp because they are so heavily used.

The main tent that comes to mind as stronger, cheaper, and lighter that doesn't make large compromises to usability is the durston x-mid. And it still makes some compromises in that it isn't freestanding. For 3 season backpacking in Colorado/rocky mountain US the copper.spur is solid.

big agnes, copper spur. its only 3 season but i've used it in light snow. also doesnt way a tone

Tiger wall is semi free standing IIRC. Not sure if that matters to you, but worth noting. I have the copper spur and it's incredible. None of these are bad options though

Through the PCT and CDT I’ve had a Big Agnes copper spur, Zpack duplex, Tarptent Notch Li and a Durston Xmid Pro in search of the perfect tent. Xmid pro was my favorite. I recommend the dyneema bathtub on it.

Me too. I’m 6’1, 180, and it is just right. I do have the hotel fly, so my pack can sleep outside; it would be pretty cramped if I had to bring my 60L pack inside with me…

I bought one last year for individual use, since it was 55% off. It’s super light and good for summer conditions. Spacious for a single person. Pitched it on hard dirt and was fine. It’s flimsy and I wouldn’t trust it high up on a mountain with winds. For recent July Rainier summit, I used a BA Copper Spur.

Also thumbs up on copper spur. Have 1P - Long enough to my 6'5" frame and can sit up in it. Paks nicely onto bike. Pricey though

I second the big agnes copper spur

Tents— big Agnes copper spur/ hilleberg Get a 3 person if bringing 2 people Sleeping bags— western mountaineering Get a bag designed for colder than you plan. You can just unzip for a blanket. Sleeping pad— excellent options for fairly lightweight with minimal deflation issues. Check out big Agnes and Nemo. Flextail makes an inflater that I cannot say enough about. Camp chair— nice feature to have for comfort. I have tried a bunch, but for me, the big Agnes skyline sits just right for the size and weight. Tarp— this may be an overlooked option, but Cooke custom sewing makes a tarp that is absolutely second to none. I strung this 10x15 rascal over the firepit this spring in the BWCA and it withstood two days of 60 mph winds, hail, and driving rain while being completely leak free. 10/10 Have a headlamp or flashlight. If you leave your phone(recommended), you shouldn’t need a power bank at all. Probably a couple spare batteries. Trowel, toilet paper, saw, axe, lighter, compass, maps, depending on your location. Bug spray/ sunscreen/headnet/hat/ Fishing gear? Book? Paper, pen? Coffee—you don’t need to cook, but coffee or tea are nice sometimes. Consider a jetboil. Lightweight, but can make drinks or heat up water for freeze dried meals/ oatmeal. Pocket knife is handy Have a good time!

I am talking about the hornet Osmo…maybe not elite, not sure, returned it. I had cables and poles snap on me. After that I would never look at the half free standing style again. It’s trekking pole or free standing tents for me. The Durston X-Mid is a great tent. So is the Big Agnes copper spur. I have a 2 person for sale.not in your $400 budget though. Unless you are meaning American dollars

Agreed. Also wind direction and direction your tent was facing. That is huge failure and likely worth discussing with BA. My copper spur was and still is bomb proof.

Just spent 5 days in a friend's copper spur and it was great. Not too heavy between two people.

Yea copper spur is top dog here

I've had the Copper Spur for about five years and recommend it. The fabric is so thin that I was worried about durability at first, but it hasn't failed me yet. Not a lot of vestibule space, though. Just enough for your shoes. The shock cord inside the tent poles went loose on me about a year ago, but they were easy to replace.

I camp a lot in the whites. I hate camping on platforms or in areas with other people but when I do I use a big agnes. Seedhouse I believe. It's a tiny 2 person so it's a nice one person tent. Sort of semi freestanding so you don't have to go to much effort to secure it and once you are inside it isn't going anywhere. I have a few two person big agnes tents and they are all similar. Copper spur and something else.

Honestly, it's plenty big for 2 adults. Two 25" mats fit easily and head room by the poles is great. Not that bad on the low sides either. My main problem in the mountains has always been finding a big enough spot to put it. The footprint under the fly is huge for a two-person. Often have to get creative to get a stormworthy pitch. Getting the perfect pitch can be tricky, but getting one that's good enough isn't usually too hard. As far as other options, the tarptent triple rainbow might be worth a look as well. I Believe the double rainbow can accommodate two wide mattresses, but it gets narrow towards the top. I've personally preferred the triple over the big Agnes because it uses more durable fabric. I had a copper spur for two seasons and had to patch the floor multiple times.

My only note about CS- the floor is tapered, not square. So are you sharing it and what shape/size are your sleeping mats?

Second this, hard to beat the copper spur

"very, very heavy" is a bit of an exaggeration. The most popular options like Big Agnes Copper Spur or Nemo Dragonfly are 1.4-1.6 kg and would fold down at half the wind speed OP is asking for. If the Salewa can take the 90 km/h they claim, it is impressive. I know there are light strong tent options like the Tarptent Scarp 2 (once you add the crossing poles is a bit over 2 kg) or the Portal Slingfin (it mar be able to take strong winds too, 1.5 kg with the option of adding trekking poles for strength). And of course some even stronger from Hilleberg, but are not lighter. What options do you suggest for tents that can take 100 km/h and are much lighter? edit: for context, this is the description of a 100 km/h wind, a storm/whole gale, 10 on the beaufort scale *Seldom experienced inland; trees uprooted; considerable structural damage* [*https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaufort\_scale#Modern\_scale*](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaufort_scale#Modern_scale)

Big Agnes Copper Spur. I’m 6’4 240 and I use the 3 man for backpacking with 1 other person and a dog and it’s great. The 2 man is a single or 1 person + 1 dog. If you’re going to use on a moto with any regularity get the bike packing one. It’s the same as the other except the poles are shorter and fit in panniers better.

Big agness copper spur is a great tent that has served me well. I like the looks of the durston x dome but haven’t tried one.

Family of 3 and we won tickets to the Kerrville Folkmusic Festival. We had a Big Agnes Copper Spur and a Coleman 4 person dome, but we wanted to be able to stand and get dressed, as well as have room for an air mattress and a cot, though we ditched the air mattress for 2 more cots, so we got a Coleman Evanston 6. Since then we bought a Coleman Weathermaster 8 as it has two rooms, but honestly it’s just about the perfect size to have plenty of room to even bring in the folding chairs if we need, which then makes it a little crowded. For the two of you I’d think a 6 person should be just enough to stand as long as nobody’s over maybe 6’ or so. If it’s raining or too windy and cold you should be able to squeeze in a couple of chairs and be happier. The Evanston has a screened porch which has been handy a few times.

I don't know how any of those name-brand tents made it into a "budget" list. You may be able to find older models of the BA tents on clearance right now, in which case they do actually approach "budget" status. From those, I would choose the Copper Spur for livability, but everyone's different. If you are open to trekking pole tents, look at the Lanshan tents. Lightweight, proven and actually a budget friendly option. Even some of the Amazon knockoffs can be okay for the price (and I'm not one to usually utter that sentence) - I have a $100 knockoff from a nothing brand on Amazon that I've actually gotten so much more than my money's worth out of over the years. Weighs a kilo. It's a gamble, though. With big brands at least you get warranty support.

I have the copper spur and my brother has the dan durston xmid. The xmid is better. It has more room inside and it’s lighter

Big Agnes Copper Spur is my choice. And I’m a Mountain Hardware fan but for tents I swear by Big Agnes’s, seam sealed from the factory and always kept me safe from the rain. I also don’t see any guy-outs on the ends of the MK3, I can imagine that might lead to some poor ventilation and sticker living. The half-dome is basically a heavier copy of the copper spur so of the two options go with half dome.

I use a 3-person tent by myself. I use it for car camping, but the ultimate goal for that tent is to backpack and share with my son. So if I carry the weight it will be for 2 people. I have a Big Agnes Copper Spur.

Big Agnes Copper Spur. It's cozy for two people, but it's our go-to for hiking in warm weather. Biggest downside - polar day gets annoying fast if you don't have eye blinds

Used Big Agnes copper spur.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur is the best lightweight tent I’ve ever had by a country mile. It’s still better to stake it since the vestibule doors need to stay away from the body of the tent for full rain protection, but I’ve had that thing all over the most remote parts of the Colorado Rockies and it has always performed perfectly. I usually only bring two stakes for the vestibule doors on either side.

The Big Agnes Fly Creek uses the same material and was the highest rated tent on several of those Halfway Anywhere PCT surveys for a few years, it was my primary pre-UL tent and survives to this day like 8 years later as my loner, and it's the tent used by the professional guides at the local outdoor shop. It's plenty durably. The Copper Spur is similarly rated on those surveys. They're both covered by Big Agnes warranty. Yes, they're very durable. You would, however, save over a pound by switching to the TarpTent Hogback. When the Copper Creek isn't on sale, you'd also be saving literally hundreds of dollars with the Hogback, too ... which is nice.

I’ll also echo the big Agnes Copper Spur. If you don’t want the “bare floor” vestibule, add in their Bike Packing Footprint, which extends beyond the tent to provide flooring of the vestibule area. [https://www.bigagnes.com/collections/footprints/products/copper-spur-hv-ul3-bikepack-footprint](https://www.bigagnes.com/collections/footprints/products/copper-spur-hv-ul3-bikepack-footprint)

I have the Xmid2 (cheapest one) and it's SO easy and fits both me and my husband great. I actually picked up a Copper Spur for another trip where I was afraid my XMid would be too big and found it such a pain to set up compared to the XMid.

After months of research, I chose the BA Copper Spur and went up a size. The extra weight will mean zero, and the extra space will mean so much as you move through various conditions and needs.

The extra space allows you to bring all or most of your gear inside, with an area for boots/shoes etc. The tent is very well constructed and quite robust, with high-end materials. Construction quality has been much better than expected

I have and it managed pouring rain and high winds without issue. The key is workarounds with wind direction and staking

In my experience I’ve found the copper spur to be a very upright & tall tent, whenever there is high wind the tent does get blown over and flattened out. I rather take my old vango or lanshan in windy conditions to be honest. Copper spur is a great tent though literally my only issue with it.

Right now REI is clearing out excellent Big Agnes 2P tents. They’re the best for the price. Light, tough, freestanding. Easy setup. No gimmicks.

I have a 1p REI tent and a 2p Big Agnes. I use the smaller one in colder conditions because it takes less space in my pack, which makes more room for extra insulation. When it’s warmer, I don’t need all the extra warmth at night so I can bring the bigger tent. My typical camping trip is 1-2 nights, and I try to keep my pack weight low, but I will always pack the bigger tent when I can.

What are you using it for? Backpacking with family? I have Durston and Big Agnes UL tents. Car camping? I have a couple of Coleman Sundomes. Backpacking solo? I have a tarp and hammock setup for some place and others I take my Durston. Depends on the availability of trees.