Over all it's not that expensive when you put in perspective, 6 nights at a cheap hotel would cost more. Other hobbies cost many times more, like motorcycling, I could spend 600 on tires that will wear out in a year or less. Fly fishing, a good fly rod easily cost 300 plus all the other gear involved. 650 for a tent that will last years maybe even a life time with proper care. And after talk to Mike ( the owner ) I'm convinced this is the route I'm going to go. I know I'm justifying it but oh well life is short! And so I ordered one.