Nemo Dagger 2p is absolutely perfect for 2 people. Lightweight(you can split weight), easy to pitch, very spacious(can fit 2 large pads), 2 doors with a lot of room for your gear. Many other features that are absolutely spot on
I have normal Dagger 2 and mate you will be alright.. I camped in it throughout winter and summer.
If you are planning to camp in bad conditions MSR is probably better choice as Dagger is more warmer tent with massive vents so wind goes through it like no tomorrow. However it is very sturdy, solid, spacious and completely waterproof. Another pro - it does not sag when wet.
I’m lucky enough to have quite a few tents so I can pick whichever suits conditions, but if you want to have 1 tent do it all - go for MSR.
Dagger is square floor as to where the dragonfly tapers at the foot. So if you use 2 25in wide pads in the 2p dagger it should fit as the dragonfly won't. Last years model of dragonfly is on sale at REI and you can use there 20% member discount right now until 23rd. If all you need is a 2p the Durston xdome 2p is the King 👑 then zpacks duplex is next for weight
Coleman would be my recommendation for anyone starting out and not sure if they will really get into it.
If you’re looking for a solid tent that fits the mid price range, I’ve found REI to be fantastic. I’m a big fan of their half-dome and have owned two of them.
My other tents are Nemo, and they have great mid to higher range tents, but there are many other great brands. I have the 2p and 3p Aurora for car camping, and the 2p Dagger for backpacking. They make a snap on thin rug for the floor in the Aurora called a Pawprint, and it’s great for protecting the tent from dogs and kids. I own a lot of Nemo gear and have had a couple of warranty issues, and they really took care of me. They stand behind their lifetime warranty, which is what’s kept me coming back to them.
Best all around tent without breaking the bank……REI all the way. Look for sales, which they have all the time.
Coleman actually makes a decent budget friendly tent that’s perfect for car camping. It’s my recommendation for those that are getting started with camping.
For mid range, REI makes great tents. I’m a big fan of their half dome.
When I decided to spend money on a good tent, I ran into similar paralysis. I narrowed it down to Big Agnes or Nemo and ended up going with the Nemo due to a thicker floor, since I’d be camping with kids and dogs. I’ve omen very happy with Nemo and have since purchased two more tents.
I have a nemo dagger 2p I absolutely love, I would recommend that to anyone, super easy and fast setup
https://preview.redd.it/a8g5w3i98bqg1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c718aaf08dd851955bb17925bbc04fbd611515f
I’ve used the Nemo Dagger 2P for a couple seasons in the PNW and it’s honestly been super solid for rain and wind, never felt like it was struggling, even when things got sketchy on the coast. The interior space is really good for two, and the vestibules are roomy enough for gear (I cram boots, pack, and even my wet jacket in there sometimes).
You’re honestly looking at the “correct” tier of first backpacking tents, especially for the PNW. None of these are bad picks — it really comes down to what you prioritize when conditions are wet and you’re spending more time inside.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2
This is probably the most common “first serious backpacking tent” for a reason. It’s light, easy to set up, and very livable for the weight. Good pockets and decent interior space. Downsides are the lighter fabric (you’ll want to be mindful of abrasion) and condensation management in wet weather, which is more about venting and site choice than the tent itself.
Durston X-Dome 2
More of a design-forward pick. Typically stronger structure and weather performance than most mainstream ultralight tents, especially in wind and rain. Less flashy, more functional. The tradeoff is availability/support compared to something you can grab off the shelf at REI. If you like thoughtful design and storm worthiness, this is a strong option.
Nemo Dagger 2P
The comfort king in this list. Noticeably roomier inside, great vestibules, and very forgiving on long rainy nights. It is heavier and bulkier, but for PNW trips where you might be stuck inside due to weather, that comfort can be worth it.
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2
A classic, durable, dependable tent. Handles bad weather well and feels solid. Interior space is good but not as roomy as the Dagger. Weight sits between the Dagger and Copper Spur depending on the version. It’s a “buy once and don’t think about it again” option.
* Best balance of weight + comfort: Copper Spur UL2
* Best livability in wet conditions: Nemo Dagger 2P
* Most weather-focused, design-driven option: Durston X-Dome 2
* Most traditionally durable and dependable: MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2
You’re in a good price range and any of these will work — it’s more about whether you want lighter, roomier, or tougher.
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The North Face
Wawona 6
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Spacious vestibule, strong in storms, but rainfly tricky solo.
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