I picked up a Koppen Maelstrom 2 at Dick's Sporting Goods for $80 (on sale from $100). It will sleep 2 medium sized adults (in the spooning position!) but it offers a decent sized vestibule for gear storage. The drawback is that is it not self-sustaining, i.e. requires stakes for proper set-up. However, it packs up small and at less than 5 lbs makes it a decent light/cheap option. Like you said, your friend could always pick another one up down the road.