The REI Half Dome series is a highly regarded, durable, and spacious tent series that serves as an excellent crossover for car camping and short backpacking trips. While reviewers consistently praise its livability, ease of setup, and rugged build quality, it is significantly heavier and bulkier than modern dedicated backpacking tents. It is a fantastic value for beginner backpackers or those who prioritize comfort and durability over weight savings.
Video reviews
Pros
- Extremely durable and long-lasting construction
- Very spacious interior with excellent headroom for two people
- Intuitive and quick setup process
- Great value for the combination of comfort and durability
Cons
- Heavy and bulky for dedicated backpacking compared to ultralight options
- Packed size is relatively large, taking up significant space in a pack
- Not suitable for long-distance or weight-conscious backpacking trips
Safety signals
Facts
Better options
Why switch: Offers similar weight and utility to the Half Dome 2 but at a lower price point.
Significantly lighter for dedicated backpacking if you have the budget, though it sacrifices some durability.
A similar freestanding tent option in a comparable price and weight class.
Based on 8 sources
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with FootprintREI Co-op Half Dome 2 Review | Tested & RatedREI Half Dome 2 Plus Tent Review, 50 Nights of Testing | CleverHikerREI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Review | Switchback TestedREI Half Dome 2 Plus: One Tent to Rule Them All | Outdoor LifeREI Co-op Half Dome 2 Backpacking Tent Review | Better TrailREI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus 45th Anniversary Tent Review | GearJunkie TestedREI Half Dome Tent: Best Value for Camping - SectionHiker.comBuyer reports
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