How big is your tent?

[Newanderthal]

something you could try is getting a cheap, 4-man dome tent. We're talking $25-30. Go minimalist for a weekend. Use foam pads instead of inflatable mattresses. Sit on a log instead of a chair. Use a flashlight instead of several lanterns. Use bug spray instead of citronella candles. Get away from the big, expensive, fancy items and experience camping they way it's meant to be experienced, as a simple, inexpensive escape from the complexities of everday life. Turn off your phone and leave the iPods and video games in the glove box. Take off your watch. If you make it complex and too much like home, then why are you really going out there?

[camper214]

My wife and I have a two person camp and we can fit in a full size airbed and with other space for mis items. Works well for us. Although in the future I'm sure we will need to big one if we start a family.

[Newanderthal]

If I don't expect storms, this is my shelter

[hummingbird]

Wow Newanderthal, you really are minimalist! LOL We have just a four person tent and that's plenty for my husband and I. We have plenty of room and enough room to store all of the stuff I bring. (Yes, I am guilty of over packing!)

[Newanderthal]

I'm usually backpacking, so cutting pounds (or even ounces) is essential.

[hummingbird]

I can see your point. It is so tiring to carry any weight at all. I carried our 15 pound toddler for about 15 miles-whew! He had a toddler tantrum and refused to take another step. My husband was carrying our pack so he couldn't carry him. It took us quite a while to finish that trip. Never again am I taking a toddler overnight backpacking even if he can out walk the two of us! The little darling can just stay with mamaw when my husband and I go out.

[frank6160]

I have a 17X10 and love it. I received it as a gift and at first thought it was too big. After several uses I couldn't see camping without it unless I'm by myself.