I am wondering if I should drop $400 or more on a tent, sleeping bag, and pad for my round the world trip? I do like the outdoors and kind that I would use it some, but not sure if it worth the money and with added weight to my pack for a year if I only use it some. Thoughts?
1
sonnyjuk
I would say a big no no to taking a tent around the world! The idea is very appealing in a romantic sort of way however when it comes to reality the tent is never used as much as intended, except by the most hardy of travellers.
Also if you do want to spend some time out in the wild just hire one or buy a cheapie when you arrive to be sold on or just chucked (I know in the UK you can get a tent for £12.99/$25).
Plus $400 could extend your trip by 2weeks in a cheap country!
Sonny
4
bluddiepommy
Where are you going on a RTW? East/Southern Africa? In the dry season? Travelling through deserts?
I would never travel without a tent in those places! I'd rather sleep in my tent than a cheap dorm full of drunken teenagers/overlands, bed bugs and lice... take your pick!
I don't use it all the time, but its handy to know you have it... in Africa, many guesthouses will just let you pitch somewhere on their grounds for the night if there's no rooms left.
Of course, it depends where you're going.
Consider a Tadpole 23 or something - reasonably lightweight, 2-person tent, and its self-standing (to all intents and purposes). There inner doubles as a stand alone mosquito net which is ideal for hot countries.
5
leandra
The one time I took a tent with me I did not end up using it. Not even once! So I'd say no to the tent.
I find taking my own sleeping bag and sleeping sheet very, very handy. I always take mine and have always found them handy. Even if just as an extra blanket when it's cold.
6
ratalinda
We had the same question when we left and opted for no tent. So happy we did this, the less weight the better and you can get cheap accomodations everywhere. Take a sleeping sheet no matter what you will use it. Our sleeping bag has been useful but we did the Inca Trail and will do a 6 week overland trip in Africa so it was needed.
7
rajulkabir
Tent? Absolutely not. So much weight, so few opportunities to use it.
The only way is if I were taking a trip especially for the purpose of tenting, like to New Zealand or something.
8
pekkie
I've been pondering over this question for quite some time for my trip RTW as I'm going to a festival in the States which I'll need to camp at. Anyway I've just decided to buy one when I get there and give it away once I'm done with it. Too much hassle carrying a tent RTW and I'd probably end up throwing it at some poor unsuspecting person.
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