When it comes to outdoor adventure gear, few names are as trusted as REI Co-op, and their Base Camp 4 Tent is a shining example of why. Designed for rugged durability and versatile performance in three-season weather conditions, this tent is perfect for family camping trips, overlanding expeditions or a weekend festival. With its spacious interior, weather-resistant materials, and thoughtful features, the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 is a reliable and comfortable shelter. However, it isn't without its flaws—the tent's heavy weight, less-than-perfect stakes and the use of pole sleeves instead of superior pole clips hold it back from being truly great. Read on to discover more about this budget-friendly base camp tent and why it remains a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
The first thing I noticed when the Base Camp 4 arrived was its weight. There are a few types of tents and the tent I most recently tested, the Half Dome SL3+ falls into the category of backpacking tent. The Base Camp 4 is more of a car-camping tent. What is the difference you may ask? Size and weight. The Base Camp 4 is heavy compared to the Half Dome; more than three times as heavy. I'm definitely not going to be carrying this on my back, no matter how short the hike is to my backcountry campsite. That said, that's not the point of this tent. The Base Camp, REI's most weather-resistant tent, is heavy due to its durability, the incredible amount of features it boasts and its size, both footprint-wise and height.
Setting up the Base Camp 4 is straightforward, thanks to its five-pole dome design. The poles are color-coded, which simplifies the process, and the reinforced structure ensures the tent stands up well to high winds. That said, this is a tent that is best set up by more than one person. It may be straightforward to put up, but it does take some time, especially compared to the Half Dome SL 3+, which makes sense considering the size and complexity compared to the latter. As a solo camper, setup took much longer than it did when I was with others, and I found the stakes and poles in particular to be a bit more aggravating to use than those in the Half Dome. Also, the Base Camp 4 utilizes tent pole sleeves in addition to tent pole clips. The latter are both lightweight and easy to use, while tent pole sleeves are just light and incredibly frustrating to use.
Key Specs
Packaged Weight: 17 lbs. 5.6 oz.
Capacity: 4 people
Dimensions: 100 x 86 inches (floor); 63 inches (peak height)
Materials: Polyester rainfly and floor
Features: 5-pole dome design, large doors and vestibules, multiple interior storage pockets
Once set up, the interior of the Base Camp 4 is roomy and comfortable, with dimensions of 100 x 86 inches. The peak height of 63 inches allows for easier movement inside the tent, and most adults can stand up hunched over without feeling cramped. While it’s marketed as a four-person tent, it’s important to note that compared to the three-person Half Dome, you’re only getting about 22.5% more floor space, so each person will have slightly less room, making this tent perfect for a group of two or three who want a lot of space.
Among the standout features of the Base Camp 4 are its large doors and vestibules. These provide easy access and ample storage for gear, helping to keep the interior clutter-free. The multiple interior storage pockets are a nice touch, allowing you to keep small items organized and within reach.
The Base Camp 4's sturdy construction and five-pole dome design with a reinforced structure make it a reliable option in various weather conditions. The polyester rainfly and floor offer excellent protection against rain and moisture, and the tent performed well in high winds, providing a secure and stable shelter.
Good ventilation is crucial for a comfortable camping experience, and the Base Camp 4 delivers in this regard, even with the rainfly up. The tent features large mesh panels and multiple vents that allow for excellent airflow, reducing condensation and keeping the interior fresh. The vestibules can also be opened allowing for maximum airflow.
I particularly enjoyed this tent's interior storage options, of which there are plenty. These pockets provided convenient and easily accessible storage for small items like flashlights, phones, keys and camera gear. This organization not only helped keep the tent clutter-free but also made my camping experience more enjoyable and efficient, as I didn’t have to rummage through our bags to locate essential items.
While the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 offers exceptional comfort and durability, it does come with a few drawbacks, the biggest being its weight and bulkiness. At 17 pounds 5.6 ounces, this tent is significantly heavier than typical backpacking tents, making it less suitable for those looking to travel light or cover long distances on foot. Additionally, despite being marketed as a four-person tent, it provides less floor space per person compared to other three and four-person models, meaning that while the tent is spacious overall, the individual space allocation is relatively limited. This might make the tent feel a bit cramped, especially if all campers have a lot of gear.
The Base Camp 4 is priced higher than smaller, simpler tents due to its larger size and numerous added features, such as multiple storage pockets and a reinforced structure. This higher cost might be a consideration for budget-conscious campers, though the investment can be justified by the tent’s enhanced comfort and durability.
For those who prioritize comfort and space over weight, the REI Co-op Base Camp 4 is an excellent choice for car camping. Its sturdy construction, roomy interior, and thoughtful features make it a reliable and comfortable option for family camping trips or outings with friends. While it’s heavier and bulkier than traditional backpacking tents, the added space and durability make it well worth the investment for car campers seeking a high-quality tent.
For most of us who love being outdoors, once summer hits and the temperatures sore there are a few ways to cool off: hit the lake or hit the mountains and go camping. I have a few go-to spots but one of my favorites is a lakeside campground up in the mountains with an abundance of sites as well as trails, but it books up quickly, normally months ahead of time. I was fortunate enough to snag a last minute cancellation this week, so I packed up the car with some of REI’s best camping essentials and spent a few days among the trees testing them out to see what you should bring on your next camping trip.
Here's my comprehensive review of the gear I plan on bringing along on future trips, focusing on their performance, functionality, and overall value. For a more comprehensive list of hiking and camping gear, read this.
When it comes to tents, there are many types: roof top tents, expedition tents, bivy sacks just to name a few. For this trip I used two different tents from REI, a lightweight backpacking tent and a much heavier 3-season dome tent, the Half Dome SL 3+ Tent with Footprint being the former.
As someone who has camped in all sorts of tents, trailers, vans, campers and hammocks, my favorite way to spend the night while still feeling like I’m lying out in nature has to be in a backpacking tent. Built to be packed in your backpack and carried with you on the trails, these tents are lighter weight than other tents and, in my experience, much easier to set up.
Key Specs
Packaged Weight: 5 lbs. 11.7 oz.
Trail Weight (tent body, rainfly and poles only): 4 lbs. 13 oz.
Capacity: 3 people
Dimensions: 90 x 78 inches (floor); 44 inches (peak height)
Features: Color-coded setup, double-wall construction, two doors and vestibules, included footprint for added protection
Ventilation: Large mesh panels for enhanced airflow
Speaking of setting up, it couldn’t be easier than it gets with the Half Dome, thanks to color coded poles and the clip system, which eliminates the need to slide the poles through sleeves. Also, the poles themselves all connect as one, so you aren’t searching around wondering which pole goes where. Even setting up the rainfly, which I used because of the thunderclouds overhead threatening to soak my campsite, was a simple process.
When it comes to size, for a backpacking tent the Half Dome SL 3+ does what it says it will do, which is fit three campers relatively comfortably. With some simple math, at 90 by 78 inches, each person gets roughly 30 by 78 inches of room if you divide things evenly which sounds like quite a bit. When you factor in room for your gear, things get a little bit tighter. That’s where the rainfly comes in handy. With the rainfly assembled the tent has not one but two exterior vestibules that will keep your boots and gear covered, allowing for even more space inside.
Speaking of the room inside, it is important to note that this is a backpacking tent, which is lighter than your average car camping tent, which means that something had to go. Most backpacking tents aren’t as tall as regular car camping tents, and the Half Dome is no exception. Unless you are a child there will be no standing up in this tent, not even while hunched over. This makes it harder to get changed and move around easily, but saves a ton of weight and is something to note when looking at what type of tent you should buy.
For most of the tents out there, the footprint, the piece of durable fabric that you place under your tent to help prevent wear and tear from rocks, roots, and moisture, is an item that you have to purchase separately. This not only adds to the cost of the tent but to the weight that you’re carrying as well. This isn’t the case with the Half Dome SL 3+. Included in the price and the total weight is a footprint that comes attached to the bottom of the tent, making for an easy setup and a more comfortable tent floor. Don’t want/need the footprint? No problem. It’s easily removable.
When it comes to dialing in comfort for those nights under the stars, the REI Co-op Magma 15-Degree Sleeping Bag hits all the right notes. This bag’s nine different inclusive sizing options means everyone can find their perfect fit, tailored to body shape and sleeping preferences. Its light performance fit contours to your body, minimizing weight while maximizing thermal efficiency. Wrapped in a recycled shell and filled with water-resistant 850-fill-power goose down, it promises cozy warmth and an ultra-soft feel. Plus, the nonfluorinated durable water repellent (DWR) finish ensures moisture beads up and rolls off effortlessly.
Key Specs
Temperature Rating: 15°F (-9°C)
Weight: Approximately 2 lbs 3.6 oz (size medium)
Insulation Type: 850-fill-power goose down
Shell Fabric: 15-denier ripstop nylon with durable water repellent (DWR) finish
The hood, with its contoured shape, fits snugly around your head and cinches up easily for extra warmth, thanks to dual drawcords. Inside, variable baffle spacing keeps the down fill perfectly in place, boosting thermal efficiency and keeping the weight low. The zipper path, which smartly wraps around the front of your chest, makes zipping in and out a breeze, while the "anti-snag" strip and zipper cover do their best to eliminate those frustrating snags (I still had one or two but far less than I normally do in my down sleeping bags). The trapezoidal footbox offers room to wiggle your toes, yet cuts down on excess space to keep things toasty and lightweight. An insulated yoke seals off the neck and shoulder gap, locking in heat where you need it most. And for those small essentials? An interior stash pocket keeps them within easy reach.
Pack it all up in the included stuff sack for your adventure, and when you’re back, store it in the roomy mesh sack for breathable storage. Maintenance is simple: hand-wash or machine wash warm on a gentle cycle in a front-load washer, and then air dry or tumble dry on low. Say goodbye to cold, uncomfortable nights—this bag has you covered.
While I found the fit to be great, it did take some getting used to, as my other mummy bags are a bit looser than the Magma. At first what could be described as claustrophobic-ly tight, once I settled down for the night and got used to the bag moving with me I found the fit to be quite comfortable. That said, if you want more room, my advice would be to go to your nearest REI store and try out a larger size.
Story time: over a decade ago I was a novice when it came to camping. The sun was setting on our Glacier National Park campsite so I made the trek to the bathroom to wash up and brush my teeth before bed. Not having spend the money on a headlamp, I figured the tiny light from my phone would be enough to get me back to camp. By the time I was done and headed back the forest had turned pitch black. I kept the light aimed at the ground to make sure I wasn't tripping over anything when a forehead-level branch the size of a Louisville Slugger made contact with my head. I fell asleep that night head-throbbing and vowed to never forget to bring a headlamp along on a camping trip again.
The Black Diamond Spot 400-R Rechargeable Headlamp is a game-changer for night-time adventurers. Packed with a powerful 1500 mAh Li-ion battery and a handy micro-USB charge port, this headlamp ensures you're never left in the dark. It cranks out an impressive 400 lumens, lighting up the trail ahead with ease. The headband, crafted from recycled elastic and Repreve fiber, sits comfortably against your skin, making those long nights out feel a bit more manageable.
This headlamp's IP67 rating that guarantees performance even after being submerged in a meter of water for 30 minutes. Versatility is at its core, with settings ranging from full strength in proximity and distance modes to dimming, strobe, and red night-vision. It even includes a digital lock mode to prevent accidental battery drain. Speaking of which, the integrated battery meter keeps you informed of your remaining power at all times.
What sets the Spot 400-R apart is its Brightness Memory feature, allowing you to switch it on and off at your preferred brightness without resetting to default. The multifaceted optical efficiency lens technology ensures every lumen is put to good use, and the red night vision mode, complete with dimming and strobe options, activates seamlessly without cycling through the white light—perfect for those stealthy nocturnal missions. On top of all that, all Black Diamond lighting products are backed by a comprehensive three-year warranty policy, ensuring reliable performance and peace of mind for your outdoor adventures.
If you're reading this there's no doubt you've heard of the brand Yeti. The Yeti Tundra 65 Cooler offers a robust 57.6-liter capacity that can hold 39 cans plus plenty of ice, and it's perfectly designed to accommodate long-neck bottles (though I don't recommend bringing glass to a beach or campsite). Constructed with rotomolded polyethylene—the same process used to make whitewater kayaks—this cooler is built to withstand the toughest impacts and endure years of rugged use. Its extra-thick walls house proprietary PermaFrost insulation, pressure-injected to provide exceptional resistance to external temperatures, keeping your contents chilled for extended periods. Durable rubber T-latches fit snugly into the molded latch keepers, ensuring the lid stays securely closed, while the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee certifies the Tundra 65 as bear-resistant when secured with two padlocks (not included), making it perfect for keeping your food safe in bear country. My campsite, like many I've visited, came supplied with a bear box so all I needed to do was put the cooler in and shut the door.
Key Specs
Capacity: Holds up to 39 cans
Weight: 27 lbs (empty)
Dimensions: 30.5 x 17.4 x 16 inches (LxWxH)
Material: Rotomolded polyethylene with PermaFrost insulation
Convenience is key with the Tundra 65, featuring molded tie-down slots for secure mounting in your boat or truck, allowing easy access to the cooler's contents even when it's strapped down. A full-length, rustproof aluminum rod connects the body and lid, with molded hinge stops ensuring the hinge will never break. The screw-in gasketed drain plug ensures leak-free performance and easy draining of water without fully removing the plug.
Carrying the loaded cooler is made easier (not easy) with haul handles on the ends, secured with marine-grade nylon rope and textured grips for a secure hold. Integrated recessed handles are also available for solo carrying. Inside, an included dry goods rack keeps your sandwiches and other items from getting soggy. Non-marking rubber feet on the bottom prevent the cooler from sliding around on the deck of your boat or in the back of a truck.
The Tundra 65 is a great cooler, but if you're solo camping like I was, and the campsite is a little ways from your vehicle, also like mine was, I suggest you look elsewhere. Once fully-loaded for a weekend or weeklong trip, the 65 (or even the 35) is very heavy and will leave you sweating before you even begin to setup camp. Instead, the Yeti Tundra Haul wheeled-cooler is easier to move and still featured everything there is to love about the regular Tundra.
I am a bag-aficionado, or as my friends and family call it, "you have a bag problem," meaning I am always on the lookout for the best bag for my trips. I finally found my white whale nearly a decade ago when Patagonia came out with the MLC 45 and my wife bought it for me for my birthday. I loved everything about it: the color, the organization, how comfortable it was, and for years it has accompanied me on my travels, from Antarctica to Patagonia, Iceland to Japan, New Zealand to Australia. At 45 liters it is the perfect size for overhead compartments (MLC stands for maximum legal carry-on).
Key Specs
Capacity: 30 liters
Weight: 2 lbs 13 oz (1.29 kg)
Dimensions: 20" x 12" x 7" (LxWxH)
Material: 100% recycled polyester ripstop with TPU-film laminate and DWR finish
These days as a dad I try and pack a bit lighter, since most of our carry-ons are filled with diapers, bottles and other child-related items. That leaves the room under the seat in front of me on the plane for my gear, which domestically means the bag should not exceed 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches. A quick look at the specs above shows that this bag just barely exceeds that measurement, but if you don't overstuff it, it'll fit with ease. I've tried this on Delta, United, American and even Frontier baggage testers and it has fit in all of them, though your mileage may vary.
When it comes to blending durability with versatility, the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L hits the sweet spot. This scaled-down version of my favorite 45-liter MLC is perfect for me, featuring tuck-away shoulder straps and a quick-stash padded hip belt that doubles as a shoulder strap, offering multiple carrying options. Whether you're using it as a backpack, shoulder bag, or duffel, the straps can be conveniently tucked away, allowing for a seamless transition between modes.
Inside, the Mini MLC offers ample space and smart organization. The large main compartment includes two interior organization pockets, while an exterior stretch-mesh pocket fits a variety of water bottles. A dedicated padded laptop pocket accommodates most 15" laptops and features a TSA-compliant design that lies flat for easy inspection. External lash points provide additional gear attachment options, and a wide webbing loop on the back can be used as a grab handle or slipped over rolling luggage handles for added convenience.
The Mini MLC isn't a camping-specific bag, nor is it one that I would bring along if I was solely backpacking, as there are plenty of bags that will do better for those circumstances. That said, if I were to pick one travel bag to cover all my bases, including car-camping, the MLC would be it.
Packing for a weekend getaway can be both exciting (I start my packing list weeks in advance) and challenging. You want to bring everything you need without overloading yourself with unnecessary items. The key to a successful packing strategy lies in choosing the right gear and organizing it efficiently. Here's our guide to the best bags and gear for a weekend trip, complete with our top picks and runners-up in each category.
Packing cubes
Efficient packing starts with good organization, and nothing helps you stay organized like packing cubes. They keep your clothes and accessories neatly sorted, making it easier to find what you need without digging through your entire bag.
The REI Packing Cube Set is a traveler’s best friend. This set includes multiple cubes of varying, expandable sizes, making it easy to separate your outfits, toiletries, and gadgets. The mesh tops allow you to see the contents of each cube at a glance (don't discount this feature), and the zippers ensure everything stays secure. Made from lightweight yet sturdy materials, these cubes won’t add unnecessary weight to your luggage.
Pros
Cons
See-through tops
Expandable
Variety of sizes
Limited compression
Zipper quality/durability is questionable
Not waterproof/resistant
Patagonia’s Black Hole Cubes are a close second, offering exceptional durability and a sleek design. Made from water-resistant materials, these cubes can handle rough handling and unexpected spills. The larger size is perfect for bulkier items like jackets or shoes, while the smaller cubes are ideal for undergarments and accessories. The Black Hole Cubes also feature a convenient handle for easy carrying. We also love the clamshell design of these packing cubes, which allows you to open them without spilling out all of the contents and prevents needlessly digging around to find what you're looking for, once the cube is open. The one thing keeping these from taking our top spot is the fact that you can't see what is inside with the cube fully closed, which sometimes means opening multiple to find what you're looking for, especially if you have multiple Black Hole cubes in the same color.
A reliable day pack is essential for exploring your destination once you’ve arrived, yet small enough to pack in your carry-on while traveling. It should be comfortable, spacious enough for your daily essentials, and tough enough to handle a variety of activities.
The Osprey Daylite Plus Pack is the ultimate day pack for weekend adventurers. With a 20-liter capacity, it provides ample space for water bottles, snacks, a camera, and even an extra layer of clothing. The pack features a comfortable harness system and a ventilated back panel to keep you cool. Multiple pockets, including a front shove-it pocket and a hydration sleeve, make it easy to organize your gear. Plus it can be easily packed in a larger bag during air travel if you only want to use it once you arrive.
For those who prefer to travel light, the REI Co-op Trail 2 Waist Pack is an excellent option. This compact pack can be worn around your waist or slung over your shoulder, keeping your hands free for other activities. Despite its small size, it offers several compartments for organizing your essentials, and the durable, water-resistant fabric ensures your belongings stay dry.
A good personal item-sized bag should fit under an airplane seat while carrying your most important items. It’s your go-to bag for keeping your travel documents, electronics, and a change of clothes within easy reach.
The Patagonia Mini MLC (Maximum Legal Carry-on) 30L is a versatile, compact bag perfect for weekend trips. It can be carried as a backpack, shoulder bag, or briefcase, providing flexibility for different travel scenarios. The 30-liter capacity is just right for a couple of outfits, toiletries, and a laptop. Made from recycled materials, this bag is as eco-friendly as it is functional.
Let me be really clear: if price wasn't a factor these bags would be tied. In fact, if you already have some gear in the Peak Design ecosystem like their packing cubes or some of their camera gear, I would definitely go the PD route over the Patagonia. The Peak Design 30L Travel Backpack is an excellent, near-perfect choice for a bag, combining sleek aesthetics with practical features. Its innovative design includes multiple access points, allowing you to reach your gear quickly. The customizable internal dividers help you organize your belongings efficiently, and the weatherproof exterior protects your items from the elements. This backpack also offers a comfortable carry with its padded straps and back panel.
Pros
Cons
Modular Design
Stylish and Functional
Durable Materials
Your carry-on bag is the cornerstone of your weekend packing strategy. It needs to be spacious enough to hold everything you need for a few days, yet compact enough to meet airline size restrictions. Both of the items below can be had in carry-on size (and larger) and have wheeled options if that's your jam.
The North Face Base Camp Duffel is a legendary piece of luggage known for its durability and functionality. Available in various sizes, the small version fits perfectly in overhead compartments. Its rugged construction includes water-resistant fabric and robust zippers, ensuring your belongings stay safe in any condition. The bag also features multiple carrying options, including padded shoulder straps and grab handles, making it easy to transport.
Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is another top-tier option, offering exceptional durability and ample space. Made from weather-resistant materials, this duffel can withstand the toughest travel conditions. Its large main compartment and various pockets provide plenty of room for your weekend essentials. The bag also features comfortable shoulder straps, allowing you to carry it as a backpack for added convenience.
Pros
Cons
High-quality
Durable
Lifetime Warranty
Price
Not completely waterproof
Uncomfortable to carry when fully-loaded
Packing for a weekend trip doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right packing cubes, day packs, personal item-sized luggage, and carry-on bags, you can stay organized and travel efficiently. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the beach, or exploring a new city, these top picks and runners-up will ensure you have everything you need for a memorable and stress-free getaway.
