User Review: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2

Summary

Extremely lightweight, easy to set up, semi-free standing tent. Very tight for 2 people, but great for 1 with gear.

I bought this tent to replace my 1980 something dome tent. Once I have a piece of equipment, I hate to change. I am getting older and am trying to go as lightweight as possible, but am on a budget. I researched online before buying this tent, which I found on sale.

I would like to approach this review from the time I leave the truck. Pack weight on this tent is not much more than you will end up with if you only carry a hammock and fly. At only 2 lbs 2 oz, this is really light.  It packs into a small bag, and if separated from the poles and stakes, you can even take advantage of one of the small compression bags for an even more compact package.  Speaking of the poles, they fold up into a roll about 1" x 19" and the stakes weigh practically nothing.

Once you find your camping spot, the tent pitches very easily. The "Y" pole design is easy to figure out, and tent clips can be easily located in the dark.  If it's raining, the fly can be quickly thrown over the poles to make the tent waterproof.  At this point, the "foot" area should be staked out to maximize space. 

There are 2 clips in the middle, between the fly and the tent, that also expand the interior space. If you are alone in the tent, these are not a big deal. Also I should mention that if you are setting up in the dark, these can be a challenge but I stress that they can be overlooked.  From here, just stake out the fly, including the vestibule, and the tent is ready for sleeping.

Inside, as I mentioned, it is cramped for 2 people. My teenage son and I have shared it a couple of times and we are shoulder to shoulder. I'm much more comfortable if it's just me and my gear.  With this said, this is not a "coffin" tent.  It really is pretty spacious by yourself.  You do have to watch the zipper on the fly. This lightweight material can get caught, but although this has happened a couple of times, it has never ripped and I've never had a hard time getting it out of the zipper.

I have been in hot weather, high winds, rain, and light snow with this tent. In the heat, the Fly Creek is very well ventilated and comfortable. If it's a clear night, the fly can be removed (or left off) for additional ventilation.  High winds and rain are not a problem. The poles are plenty strong, which was shown with the snow too, and the fly comes all the way to the ground preventing any problems with either.  The vestibule consistently kept my boots dry. 

I should also mention again that the design of the rain fly allows rain to come into the front of the tent when entering and leaving the tent in the rain. This isn't a big deal, but if your son is still sleeping and you have to go to the bathroom...well, you get the picture. In the snow, which seems to be the worst for condensation, I had absolutely NONE.

I have only used this tent for about 10 months now, at least 1x per month, and will be using it for as long as possible. I will be checking in again in about a year to give an update.