Tent Questions

[R_eckless]

Hi there,

Absolute beginner here and don't really know much about equipment here.

I'll be doing a lot of solo hiking, not through the snow so only a 3 season tent would be optimal for myself. I'm around 6,1 and weigh 88kg.

I've found a few online through Amazon, Campmor , Trailspace etc but it seems as though I can't import them into Australia. I've found a REI Half Dome 2 Tent but importing costs $72 while the tent itself is $189.

So what are the most reputable brands here for purchasing a tent here in Australia? The best websites etc.

Thanks

[neilmny]

R_eckless I recommend you read a lot on here about tents, there is a lot of good info
then determine what you really want and your budget once you've had a good look at what is available.
As far as on line shops go my personal experiences have been good with
Wildearth and Kelly's Basecamp. I'm sure others would add a lot more to the list.

[Strider]

Perhaps give us some info about where you plan I use it and how much you would like to spend - would make it easier to know where to start.

[corvus]

R_eckless,
Why not check out a forum members site http://www.adventurefriends.com.au/ they have a Tent that looks like it may suit your needs.
corvus

[photohiker]

I've found a REI Half Dome 2 Tent but importing costs $72 while the tent itself is $189.

That's a pretty standard tent style. If you search here you will find user reviews of the the One Planet Goondie which isn't a lot different, it comes in a 2 person variant

I'd also suggest looking at the Hilleberg and the Tarptent ranges, particularly the Scarp. Comes in 1 person and 2 person variants.

There are a lot of tent threads here on the forum, well worth spending some time reading. You should consider the weather you are likely to encounter. At 6,1 you will find that some tents will be too low or too short for comfort so best to read reviews closely, ask questions and try and see before you buy.

[madmacca]

One way of avoiding import restrictions (and sometimes expensive posting) is to use a shipping service such as shipito.com

[Strider]

One way of avoiding import restrictions (and sometimes expensive posting) is to use a shipping service such as shipito.com

I think the OP was referring to postage - there will be no import charge for that item.

[Julies]

I think macca is actually talking about export restrictions on certain brands from the US. Cascade/MSR/ mountain engineering etc all stop retailers posting out of the US. Ship it to and other such on-posters, give you a US addy, then forward it to you, giving you a bunch of postage options.

I got my jetboil and neo airs at half the price they were available in oz for, even after postage and handling. It sad, because I would like to support local traders, but when you are paying $659 for an Easton Kilo 3p, plus postage from aust trader, or $380 delivered from o/s.... It's not much of a competition.

[madmacca]

Julies has me right. And provides a more detailed explanation as well.