Shelter: When it comes to backpacking, invest in your feet and the roof overhead. After using my Big Agnus Copper Spur2 since around 2014, I decided to go with the updated version of the same tent and keep the previous tent as a back up and to lend out. That tent did all of my thru hikes so it holds sentimental value.

The new Copper Spur2 is very similar. I set it up to be sure all the pieces were there and working. Seems obvious but never set up a new tent on your first night in the woods.

When purchasing a tent, read the reviews and go with something reputable and as light as possible. My second shelter is a tarp that weighs about 7 ounces. I like using it when there are no bugs and no expected severe rain storms. This tent is around 2 pounds 10 ounces. It’s a 2-person so plenty of room for gear, or even a dog if it’s winter. Avoid anything weighing 4 pounds or more.

Footprint: Tent makers love to sell footprints but I love to avoid buying one. They add weight and bulk to your load. I like cutting window treatment plastic (less than 1 mil.) to fit under my tent. It’s the type you can cover windows with and make a temporary insulating layer by tightening the plastic with a hairdryer. Cut it to fit under the tent with nothing sticking out to catch water. Don’t use a hairdryer on it. Just wad it up and put in the bottom of your pack when not in use. I draw an arrow pointing to the head of the tent just to make it easier to place since my tent is smaller at the bottom end.