u/alafral

Hi all - I'm planning a thru-hike for 2027 and half been in the process of taking stock of my gear. I'm currently trying to figure out what to do for a tent/shelter. I think I'm leaning towards having a freestanding tent for comfort and ease of set-up at the end of long hikes. I do already own an REI Trail Hut 2 (5 lbs. 1.44 oz) that I've used for years and has always served me well, but I do know that's a heavier tent than would be recommended.

What do you think I should do?

• Should I just start off with the tent I have and I can switch it up if it's too cumbersome?
• Look into getting an ultralight tent and just make the investment for the trail?
• Opt to do just a hammock/tarp combo and hope that there's shelter space most of the time?

Tents are all I've ever known so it's what I think I feel most comfortable sticking with, but would love to hear what was successful for other folks.