Fly Creek UL2

We have four tents: 1. UL minimalist 2P backpacking tent (Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2) for the most strenuous backpacking trips where every ounce matters 2. UL 3P backpacking tent (Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2) our typical backpacking tent with our dog 3. Very cheap 2-3P dome tent for car camping (typical Wal-Mart tent) an extra tent for friends/family just in case 4. Large 4P stand-up tent (Eureka Copper Canyon 4P tent, with queen cot) For car camping, #4 is so, so nice. Being off the ground where both of us can be standing and getting dressed, etc. at the same time is a huge luxury compared to being on the ground. That said, we also have a towable 17ft camper that is next level across the board (queen bed, fridge, hot/cold water, toilet, shower, table, etc. We also sleep in the back of the 4Runner when we arrive at the trailhead late at night for an early morning start.

Not sure about bags or pads, but my longest lasting tent was a Fly Creek UL2. I practically lived in that thing for 3 full summers, and used it for extended periods of time over a number of years. Bought in 2013, retired it last year. Replaced it with a Copper Spur UL1. Overall I would say I am very satisfied with Big Agnes products.

While I agree that you should plan on using a 1P tent for a long solo thru-hike, I consider the Fly Creek UL2 to be a misnamed 1P tent. Yes, I own one. I would never take it on a trip with my husband, but it's perfectly sized for one person and your gear. u/MonumentMan wrote: "Having a larger tent is a NEGATIVE - it literally will not fit at certain campsites." True, but a Fly Creek UL2 should fit just about anywhere.

I am one of those people who won't trade off much comfort to reduce weight. You can be surprisingly comfortable in camp while still carrying a light load. For example, a large tarp can actually be more comfortable than a tiny tent, especially if bugs are not significant. I've always seen the weight trade-off as more of a comfort on trail vs. comfort in camp balance. I've dramatically reduced my pack weight thanks to the information here and elsewhere, while still maintaining reasonable comfort in camp. If my husband and I tried to share our Fly Creek UL2, neither of us would get any sleep. The slightest noise or movement from either of us would wake the other up.

I like my Fly Creek UL2 as a solo tent, but no way would I plan to use a Fly Creek UL1/UL2 or Copper Spur in 50 mph winds. You need a bombproof tent under those conditions, and that means stronger fabrics than these tents use.

They work extremely well under the typical weekend conditions where we use them.

Front access kinda stinks, as your vestibule area is also your entrance (among other things). If you look at mountaineering/4 season tents that use this design, they often have a additional vesituble that extends [waaay out there](https://blackdiamondequipment.com/products/eldorado-tent-vestibule?variant=49695714181437), so you can utilize the space really well. Ventilation on the Fly Creek is also just so-so, since you can't set up a nice cross breeze with two opposing doors.

Copper spur is awesome. 2p tents are tight with two people. If I want room, I use the REI half dome. If I’m concerned about weight, I use a fly creek ul2. Two pads barely fit in the fly creek, but it works, and I’ve had two people and a 45lb dog in there. It depends on priorities, how much hiking you will do, and how much you like the person you are with. Also, are you willing to have two tents? A copper spur 2 for tougher backpacking and a cheaper tent for easy trips and car camping works as a great combo.

https://preview.redd.it/kvtmhsjv9j9f1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7783be7d019ab34c94abf36f71b3bcb6a4532ec7 Two adults, one 45lb dog in a fly creek ul2. It’s just wide enough for two pads, and the rainfly has to be guyed out or condensation is an issue. It works. But if he got stir crazy, it wasn’t pleasant. My biggest issue with it is that I’m 6’2, so my head and feet are touching the ends. This often leads to condensation on my feet. But, realistically, that happens in any light tent I’ve tried unless I sleep diagonally.

I actually used my fly creek in Iceland. It’s an amazing tent. With the wind, I found a natural break to pitch by. But my buddy loves his copper spur and thinks the weight is well worth it. It is also faster to setup well because it is free standing. I can get the fly creek up in a hurry, but if I have to treasure hunt for sticks and rocks to tie to, that adds a lot of time, which sucks when it’s raining. My buddy is a big fan of Nemo as well and says the Hornet is worth considering.

Not at that price and weight. I like the fly creek UL 2 as a light option, but it’s more expensive. On the cheaper side is the half dome or quarter dome but they are heavy and prices vary. A good tent will last you many years, so factor that into your decision.