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REI Nitelite

rated 4.0 of 5 stars

The Nitelite has been discontinued. If you're looking for something new, check out the best three-season tents for 2024.

I have used this tent for close to five years now. I bought it when it first came out at REI, and before the design began to be replicated by Kelty and other tent companies. It has stood up to all the conditions that the Sierra Nevadas can throw at you: intense sunlight, rain, hail, wind. The factory taped seams are a big plus. It is a bit tight for two people, but when you think about it, this is actually a plus -- it keeps the both of you warmer because you're practically heating each other. The tent does sag a little in the middle, but if you set it up right, it'll be fine. The only minus is that the vestibule and fly don't go to the ground. The little 6" gap allow wind and rain to get through, though not significantly. Other than that, this has been a great tent for the money.

Design: three-season non-freestanding
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: very easy
Weight: ~5 lbs.
Price Paid: $90

This tent is an excellent value for a lightweight backpacking tent. Very well thought out. Comes with taped seams, but be sure to seal the other smaller ones before heading out with it. Will sleep two comfortably. My only complaints are that it is not freestanding, which can be a pain at some campsites, and that it has minimal headroom for sitting up. Packs small and quickly. It has even withstood light snowfalls admirably. I would certainly recommend it to anyone.

Design: 3 season hoop tunnel
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: easy for one, but not extremely quick, can be set up with rainfly on
Weight: 4 lbs
Price Paid: $140

This was the third tent I've tried and I finally came up with a winner. Set up and take down is about as easy as it gets. It does sag a little in the middle when it rains so you have to readjust the tension straps about an hour into a rainstorm. One of the best things about this tent is it's from REI which is one of the most customer friendly stores I've ever visited.

Design: 3 season hoop design
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: very easy for one person
Weight: about 5 lbs
Price Paid: $145

Positives: Cheap, weather proofing was excellent, the vestibule is large and convenient. Very easy to set up, lightweight.

Minuses: Heavier than their claim (4lbs 8ozs), not freestanding.

Overall: very pleased with this tent. Packs small and is still light.

Design: 3 Season Double Hoop Tent
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: Very Easy
Weight: 5.5 lbs (actual wt)
Price Paid: $140

This is a great tent period. Super lite, super fast. Me and buddy + some gear no problem. Only gripe: not freestanding.

If you are doing trips in good to moderate weather you should check into this tent.

Design: 3 season
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: Quick
Weight: 4.8 lbs.
Price Paid: $140

The tent is a very nice solo tent, but you'd really have to like your tent-mate in order to sleep with them if you are going on a long journey. Otherwise, for $140 it's a really good tent.

Design: 3 Season Backpacking
Sleeps: 2- Only if you love your tentmate.
Ease of Setup: One Man Josb. It's very easy, even if it's raining or dark out.
Weight: 3.8? pounds
Price Paid: $140

Very admirable tent for the price. Did very well in driving rains and the large vestibule keeps shoes and other misc. items dry. A great tent for any one who wants quality that has a budget.

Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: Very easy, even in the rain at night.
Weight: 4.8lbs
Price Paid: $140

Very nice tent for backpacking. One of a kind. REI at their best!!

Design: 3 season
Sleeps: 2
Ease of Setup: easy set up. Takes a few seconds!!
Weight: 4lbs. 8oz.
Price Paid: $140

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Price Reviewers Paid: $90.00-$145.00

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