If you’re in a hurry and want the main points of this article, here they are:
To summarize, the Passage 2 from REI Co-op seems to be a well-rounded tent that caters mainly to backpackers. Its lightweight nature, easy setup, and 3-season suitability make it a strong choice for those on the go. It’s designed for two people and offers a reasonable amount of space, making it ideal for pairs of backpackers. It’s not suited for harsh winters, but for spring, summer, and fall camping, it seems to work just fine.
However, there are a few potential downsides. It’s not ideal for larger groups, year-round campers, or those who frequent very humid or rainy areas. Without a footprint, it might not provide the best protection against ground moisture. The pack size might also be an issue for car campers or those with limited space. Lastly, the setup may not be straightforward for everyone, and the mesh design might compromise privacy in certain lighting conditions.
In conclusion, the Passage 2 appears to be a good fit for lightweight backpacking, especially for pairs. But as always, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons against your personal camping needs and preferences. Bear in mind, I’m just sharing my thoughts based on the product specs. Your experiences could vary. Happy camping!
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REI Co-op Passage 2 Tent Review: Who is it for?
In my opinion, the Passage 2, a product manufactured by REI Co-op, is a tent that seems to cater very well to backpackers. Now, I’m not claiming to be an expert or anything, I’m just sharing what I’m picking up from the details of this tent.
The primary reason why I would propose that backpackers might be the best suited to the Passage 2 is due to its lightweight nature. With a minimum trail weight of around 4 lbs. 13 oz., it appears to be quite ideal for those who would be carrying it around on long hikes and treks. The lighter a tent is, the less burden it is for a backpacker, and this tent definitely falls into the lighter category. Moreover, it’s freestanding design makes it a convenience to set up and pack away, which again, is very useful for backpackers who are constantly on the move.
Furthermore, the Passage 2 is listed as a 3-season tent. In my humble opinion, this might not be suitable for the hardcore winter campers out there, but for the majority of backpackers who stick to spring, summer, and fall camping, it seems to be a good fit.
Now, if we look at the space aspect, the Passage 2 can comfortably accommodate two persons. The sleeping capacity, coupled with the symmetrical rectangular floor providing an efficient layout, makes it seem quite pleasant for a pair of backpackers. The tent also offers two doors and twin stake-out vestibules which could be an added luxury for gear storage or just for hanging out.
The use of polyester as the primary fabric for the canopy, floor, and rainfly also seems to indicate a balance between durability and weight, which is quite important in backpacking scenarios. Also noteworthy is the 6061/7001 aluminum pole set, which, from what I gather, allows for increased vertical space at the ends of the tent.
The Passage 2 does not include a footprint, which some might see as a disadvantage. But again, for backpackers who are usually concerned about weight, this might not be such an issue. It’s also worth noting that the tent offers the possibility to go minimalist by using just the rainfly, footprint (if one is purchased separately), poles, and stakes.
While I haven’t had the chance to personally try out the Passage 2, based on the specifications and features, I’d say it’s pretty clear that it’s designed with the needs of backpackers in mind. Its lightweight, easy setup, 3-season suitability, and ample space for two, seem to make it a solid choice for those who love to hit the trails with a friend or partner. But remember, this is just my humble take based on the features and specs. Your camping needs and preferences could lead you to a different conclusion. Happy camping!
REI Co-op Passage 2 Tent Review: Who isn’t it for?
Alright, now let’s take a turn and discuss who the Passage 2 might not be the best fit for. Again, I’m not an expert or anything, just sharing my thoughts here.
For starters, I’d say if you’re an all-year-round camper who loves to brave the harsh winter conditions, the Passage 2 might not be the best pick. It’s a 3-season tent which means it’s not designed to tackle extreme winter weather and heavy snow loads. So for those who camp in pretty cold climates or high-altitude locations, it might be worth considering a 4-season tent.
If we look at the tent’s size and space, it seems to be designed for two people. Now, while this is great for a pair of backpackers, it might not be the best choice for families or larger groups. If you’re planning a camping trip with your family or a group of friends, you might need something with more sleeping capacity.
Also, if you enjoy camping in very humid areas or places with heavy rainfall, you might need to consider that the Passage 2 doesn’t come with a footprint included. While not having a footprint might not be a big issue for some, it can be a disadvantage in wet conditions since it adds an extra layer of protection against ground moisture. Of course, you can always get one separately, but that’s an added expense and something else to carry.
Another thing I noticed is the pack size of the Passage 2, which is 7.5 x 22 inches. Now, for backpackers who are hiking or trekking over long distances, this might not be a problem. However, it might not be the most convenient size for those who prefer car camping or for those who travel to their camping site with limited space.
Similarly, if you’re someone who values privacy a lot, the Passage 2 might not be the best suit as it has a lot of mesh which is great for ventilation but it can make the inside of the tent visible from the outside in certain lighting conditions.
Lastly, if you’re not too familiar with tent set-up procedures or if you prefer tents that pop-up instantly, you might find the Passage 2 a bit tricky. Despite the color-coded poles and pole clips, there’s still a learning curve involved with setting up this tent.
In conclusion, the Passage 2, while being a great option for light backpackers and those who camp in mild conditions, might not be the best fit for winter campers, large groups, those who prefer car camping or really private spaces, and those who aren’t comfortable with setting up traditional tents. But, again, this is just my opinion based on the specifications and features of the tent. Your needs might be very different, and that’s perfectly okay. Happy camping!
REI Co-op Passage 2 Tent Review: Conclusion
To summarize, the Passage 2 from REI Co-op seems to be a well-rounded tent that caters mainly to backpackers. Its lightweight nature, easy setup, and 3-season suitability make it a strong choice for those on the go. It’s designed for two people and offers a reasonable amount of space, making it ideal for pairs of backpackers. It’s not suited for harsh winters, but for spring, summer, and fall camping, it seems to work just fine.
However, there are a few potential downsides. It’s not ideal for larger groups, year-round campers, or those who frequent very humid or rainy areas. Without a footprint, it might not provide the best protection against ground moisture. The pack size might also be an issue for car campers or those with limited space. Lastly, the setup may not be straightforward for everyone, and the mesh design might compromise privacy in certain lighting conditions.
In conclusion, the Passage 2 appears to be a good fit for lightweight backpacking, especially for pairs. But as always, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons against your personal camping needs and preferences. Bear in mind, I’m just sharing my thoughts based on the product specs. Your experiences could vary. Happy camping!