Recommendations for tent / nerves

[Arkey]

Hello all, first time posting here - my apologies if in the wrong thread.

The short version: Would the Vango F10 Hydrogen UL1 be suitable for stealth / wild camping?

The (overly) long version: I'm an experienced day hiker/rambler, but thus far have never set foot in a tent, never mind slept in one, but I want to, done some research and am torn on my feelings.
First, I'm very reserved and private, so the idea of camping on a camp site fills me with dread (I'm also a snorer - not due to weight - and would hate to inflict that on others). Secondly, whilst I'm not claustrophobic, I dislike enclosed spaces - I like being able to move and see what's going on around me, and this is where my conflict starts (I also realise I can't see whilst asleep, but can't help that really!)

I would be OK in a standard tent on a camp site, but on hikes (usually moors, woodland and fells) I would prefer something a bit more open like a tarp cover, but I think such a thing would be inadequate in poor weather, especially on moorland. If it helps, I have in the past been able to create makeshift covers in woodland to wait out a passing downpour and have been quite comfortable.

I've been into a shop, sat in a few tents and found it not too bad if I have an opening and can sit part in, part out. The tents that I were initially attracted to are out of the question due to their weight, but one was similar in size to the hydrogen model which the assistant drew my attention to, but didnt have any in stock nor knew much more about it hence my query here. It is admittedly stretching the upper end of my budget but the weight is most attractive and I can find little else comparable in weight at that price.

I should add, I'm fully aware and support the Countryside Code before it morphed into LNT, as well as the laws on wild camping in the various parts of the UK. I also have the equipment needed besides a sleeping bag and mat which I'll probably be asking about elsewhere.

My apologies for the length, but those are the things bothering me, and I'd be grateful for any insight or suggestions from others. Are these usual concerns or am I overthinking it?

 

[Chris]

Welcome!

That tent is stated as 7 Denier fabric, which is approx the same as a pair of tights (seriously). My real concern with this would be durability, especially so with a £500+ tent.

It also looks quite small (so not good for you wanting to move around) and like condensation would become a problem.

Something like the MSR Hubba NX one person tent is going to be (about three times) more durable, more spacious, has a vestibule so you can leave your boots outside/cook when it’s raining and is even £100 cheaper. Whilst being renowned as a good tent.

 

[Megatramp]

I've only been camping for about 36 years and I'm still learning!

You're on the right track with going to try before you buy, trouble is some good options aren't sold in shops.
Check out the Lanshan 2 (standard or pro), especially if you use trekking poles, as it uses them for support instead of dedicated tent poles. They're roomy, lightweight, durable and reasonably priced. The best thing is they have two vestibules and if you roll back both doors you have an open space like a tarp, but with the option to close off one or both sides as the weather changes.
Might be worth trying a lighter coloured tent too. My Naturehike Vic 2 seems more roomy than it has any right to, down to its light grey fabric which is almost transparent.

 

[Arkey]

Thank you both. I've been spending days agonising over the pros and cons of each tent I've looked at (fragility of the Hydrogen being one) and last night an advert for a lanshan appeared. I checked it out and it seemed to tick all my boxes. For a hundred quid, I thought sod it and ordered one - not something I normally do, but I figure I could spend several hundred on a tent and not be happy with it (or possibly not be happy camping at all - a creeping thought now I have seen the prices of ultralight sleeping equipment!). That it has been recommended here post purchase has assured me somewhat. Thank you again.

 

[Chris]

I have a LanShan and it’s pretty good. I just don’t really like trekking poles tents out of personal preference, but if you’re happy setting them up then they are great little tents and plenty of people love them.

It’s worth silicone sealing the guy-out points as they’re a potential weak spot for waterproofing.

 

[plastic-ninja]

Sounds like you are after a tarp tent or something similar. I had a GoLite Shangri La which was excellent, but a few years back found a MSR Twin Peaks, which is even better. Pitches with poles, sticks or ties from above & fits in a coat/backpack pocket. Also fits over the ShangriLa bathtub floor if you want to add another kilo to the sub 1 kg tent.

 

[gllct0]

TarpTent Scarp, either the 1 or the 2.

 

[Megatramp]

How's the gear prep coming along?

Is a first camp report imminent?