On the size issue, the SMD tent is only 6" narrower than the REI tent but it's actually taller and longer. I do need to try the tape trick though, I would have never thought of that...great tip. I'd be using the tent solo for sure and if I took my dog, luckily he's pretty small so he may still fit in the SMD if I go that route.
I also would have learned the two sack packing method the hard way if not for you guys. That makes a lot of sense to pack the components separate, especially after wet weather.
The pack does compress. I would say it should compress pretty well for overnighters. I need to collect all my gear I have gathered so far and do a practice run packing the pack so I can see how it all fits together.
One other thought on ultralight tents, inspired by OM's discussion of floor space. Before making a decision, go to a store and climb into a tent like the MSR Hubba or the Big Agnes Seedhouse 1 or Fly Creek 1; there won't be a lot more space in the SMD Syscape (from what I remember of my buddy's tent when he set it up.) If you don't think that will work for you (and maybe your dog), then you might look at the Tarptent Rainbow. It weighs just over 2 pounds, but is about half or two thirds again as wide as the Hubba, with the same general design. (The savings is from using a single-wall design and carbon-fiber poles.) I've used one in the back yard, and like the design; I was really impressed by the volume and floor space ("palace" was the word that came to mind), and the setup was very easy. I just never got the warm fuzzies, myself, for no objective reason (it may be nothing more than my preference for MSR gear), but I have no problem recommending it to others.
As I posted in the other thread.... the REI Passage 2 is just BARELY a 2 person tent. 6 inches lost on width is a dramatic difference. Still will be plenty of room for you and a small dog but just heads up on that.
Although if i remember correctly, you already got your passage and have set it up... correct?
Yeah, I set it up in the living room. Very easy to do which was nice and there seemed to be plenty of room, even for a big guy like myself. Kids had a blast playing in it too...lol
I need to set it up again and get in it with a tape measure so I can get a better idea what I am looking at with the 6 inches lost. I'm pretty sure the 48" compared to 54" width will be ok, especially considering the trade off...more than half in weight reduction as well as a smalled packed size, 7.5x22 vs. 5x15.
Our long-time Sponsor, BackcountryGear.com - The leading source for ultralite/lightweight outdoor gear:
Affiliate Disclaimer: This forum is an affiliate of BackcountryGear.com, Amazon.com, R.E.I. and others. The product links herein are linked to their sites. If you follow these links to make a purchase, we may get a small commission. This is our only source of support for these forums. Thanks.!