Had to pick between a cheap tent and a heavy one for a trip to Yellowstone, chose wrong

Last summer I was packing for a 5 day solo hike near Yellowstone and couldn't decide between my old 8 pound canvas tent or a 40 dollar walmart special that weighed nothing. I went with the cheap one to save my back on the trail. First night a storm rolled in around 2am and the poles snapped like twigs, soaked everything I owned. Anyone else ever gamble on a budget tent and regret it?

2 comments

2 Comments

sarahsullivan7d ago

oh man, you're not gonna believe this but Yellowstone actually allows hikers to camp at some backcountry sites for free if you get a permit. i learned that the hard way after hauling a tent for miles when i could've just showed up and grabbed a spot. but yeah, the walmart tents are basically disposable for anything more than a backyard sleepover.

margaretf407d ago

Actually you can't just show up and grab a backcountry site in Yellowstone, you have to reserve it in advance through their online system or at a ranger station. Did you get lucky and find a walkup permit, or did you just camp illegally?