NEMO Backpacking Gear

What capacity tent do you need?

• How many are in your group? Backpacking tent models usually hold 1 to 5 people. 
• There’s no industry standard for what each size means, so check product specs.
• Assume a close fit for the number of people your tent is designed to accommodate, especially with ultralight models. If you need more elbow room, consider the next size up.

Decide whether you need all-year protection

• Many backpackers, especially new ones, choose a 3-season tent for great all-around protection.
• 3-4 season tents are a little sturdier and warmer than their 3-season cousin, and with less mesh.
• 4-season tents are engineered to handle high winds and other severe weather. This can make them stuffy in warm weather.
• Consider alternative shelters like hammock tents, bug shelters or bivvy sacks depending on your preferences and the conditions you may typically encounter on backpacking trips.

Backpacking Tent Weight

• Tents are a tradeoff between weight and comfort.
• Pay attention to the difference between packaged weight (every part included) and minimum trail weight (the weight of just the tent, rain fly and poles, and the best spec to use for comparisons).

Think about livability 

• Peak area: How tall is the tent?
• Floor area: How much square footage is inside?
• Wall shape: A big factor in how roomy a tent feels

Other features to consider: 

• Doors: If multiple people will be sleeping in the tent, you might want more than one door for convenient access.
• Vestibules: Bigger is better for storing gear but adds weight.
• Storage: Interior mesh pockets are nice for staying organized.

Where will you use the pad? 

Decide how you’ll use the pad. Weight and packability will matter more if you're backpacking than if you're car camping. If you're winter camping, pick an insulated pad with warmth (or a high R-value).

What are the different types of sleeping pads?

• Air pads. Pros: Comfortable, lightweight and packable. Cons: Generally more expensive. Can be punctured or ripped.
• Self-inflating pads. A combo of open-cell foam and air. Pros: Often quite warm. Made in a variety of thicknesses and styles. Cons: Heavier than a simple foam pad.
• Closed-cell foam pads. Pros: Cheapest option. Almost indestructible. Cons: Not super comfortable.

Decide on the warmth (R-value) you need

• Sleeping pads are rated by R-value; a higher number means more insulation.
• Match your choice to the season and weather.
• Pads with an R-value less than 2.0 are suitable for warm weather whereas those with an R-value 5.5 and greater are ideal for extreme-cold-weather.

What dimension do you need?

Pads vary by weight, cushioning, length, width, ease of inflation and more. At a minimum, your shoulders and hips need to fit on a pad. Regular (typically 72 inches long) and long (typically 78-inch) pads will insulate your legs and feet. A short or 3/4-length pad (usually 47 or 48 inches) weighs less and packs smaller.