Even though we don’t really like the term ‘entry-level’ when describing a tent, we have to give it up to Big Agnes for this one: This might be the best all-rounder for newbies who aren’t sure whether backpacking will be a single weekend thing or a long-term relationship. It’s super packable, lightweight and robust, and it comes with a handy front-facing vestibule that doubles up as both a gear store and a cooking space. For us, the Big Agnes C Bar 2 ticks so many boxes, we think this tent will become the new go-to for solo adventurers looking for a high-quality starter tent — especially considering it won’t break the bank.
| Trail Weight | 1.67 kg |
| Total Weight | 1.87 kg |
| Packed Size | 15 x 48 cm |
| Floor Area | 219 cm x 132 - 107 cm | 2.6 m² |
| Vestibule Area | 0.7 m² |
| Head Height | 104 cm |
| Fast Fly / Shelter Mode Weight | 1.28 kg |
Big Agnes is a small, independent US outdoor brand out of Steamboat Springs, Colorado – a small ski-town that we’ve never visited but which we like to imagine is full of mountain-loving, trail-hiking outdoorsy types. That would make sense, since the company makes some of the best ultralight backpacking gear around, including the award-winning Copper Spur, Tiger Wall and Fly Creek tents. It is kit that has clearly been designed by a gang of folks who love sleeping in the dirt just as much as we do here at WildBounds.
Oh, and if you’re still wondering where the heck that name Big Agnes comes from, we did try to find out. Depending on who you talk to, it’s either an affectionate tribute to a legendary truck drivin’ mountain mama, or a 12,000 foot peak in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. We kinda like the first one better.
