What To Look For
Easy on the pocketbook while maintaining quality materials, Kelty manufactures reliable tents for the budget conscious camper and backpacker. When shopping for tents, key points to consider are the type of camping you will be doing and the seasons in which you plan on taking trips. Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, three-season tent for camping and backpacking may find comfort and reliability with Kelty's Grand Mesa 2. Deemed as a "high value tent for the money" by Backpacker Magazine, the Grand Mesa 2 features a freestanding design that is easy and dependable to pitch.
If you are purchasing a tent for backpacking, keeping the packed weight to a minimum is critical for your endurance and physical well-being while hiking. The Grand Mesa 2 features DAC PressFit Aluminum poles that provide superior strength while adding very little extra weight. The total packed weight of this two-man tent is 4 lbs. 10 oz. Additional standard features of the Grand Mesa 2 include factory-taped seams for noteworthy weather protection right out of the box, a full coverage rain fly and a 6-foot vestibule for excess or wet gear.
Common Pitfalls
Visiting an outdoor retailer will give you a chance to pitch the Grand Mesa 2 and crawl inside to get an idea of the floor space and layout. When shopping for a camping or backpacking tent consider how many people you plan on housing and how much gear you plan on storing inside the tent or vestibules.
Where To Buy
Found through online retailers and select local outdoor retail stores, the Kelty Grand Mesa 2 is often sold at discount prices through Trails.com and Altrec.com. When purchasing tent a tent online or in the store check the return policy before making a final decision.
Cost
The Kelty Grand Mesa 2 costs an average of $139.95 as of 2009. Camping and backpacking tents are an investment that will provide comfort and shelter for many seasons to come when cared for properly.
Article Written By Patricia Poulin
Patricia Poulin is a freelance writer based out of the western slope of Colorado. Poulin's travels and insight have chronicled in print media resources, such as "Inside Outside" and "Breathe" magazine. She is also a regular contributor for other various publications including "USA Today." Poulin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara.