REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus

The Half Dome 2 Plus is the tent most American backpackers actually own, and the reasons hold up. The 'Plus' floor plan gives two real adults and their gear room to coexist — 90 by 54 inches with near-vertical walls and generous headroom — where premium ultralight tents force spooning and elbow negotiations. Twin doors and vestibules mean nobody climbs over anybody at 2 a.m., the color-coded hubbed pole set pitches in minutes, and the materials are noticeably burlier than what the gram-counting brands ship. At its usual $329, often less on sale, nothing matches the livability per dollar, and REI's one-year return policy removes the risk entirely. The trade-offs are equally plain. At roughly 4.5 pounds packed, it is nearly double the weight of a Big Agnes Copper Spur, and the packed bulk hogs a bear-canister-sized chunk of your pack — fine for weekenders splitting the load, punishing for solo long-milers. Older versions made you buy the footprint separately, and the rainfly's coverage low on the ends can let splashback in wind-driven storms. Availability is REI-only, which is academic in the US and a dealbreaker elsewhere. As a first serious tent or a car-camping-to-backpacking bridge, it is still the default recommendation.