When it comes to backpacking and kayaking you have limited space and it always helps to keep things as light as possible. I like the "comforts of home" so I don't mind carrying a 3-person tent for two people to use.

After reading about the different models Eureka had to offer I decided upon the Eureka Pinnacle Pass 3XTA tent. This 3-season tent is a lightweight backpacking tent coming in at 5 pounds 15 ounces. That's about 3 pounds lighter than my old tent, which is a lot when it comes to backpacking. The tent footprint is 7' 6" x 6' 6" which is plenty of room for three people, even for a guy like me whose 6' 2" there's plenty of room. 

The first thing I noticed when I first took the tent out of the box was its compact 7" x 21" shape when rolled up - a plus for backpacking. Also a good thing when it comes to storing the tent in the front storage compartment of my kayak for an overnight trip. What really set this tent apart from others I have used was the tent pole pockets which truely make this a tent that one person can easily set up by themselves. Simply slide the aluminum tent pole with the rubber end into the tent pole sleeve and slide the opposite end of the tent pole into the metal key at the corner of the tent. 

Once you have the tent set up you'll notice a large door and very breezy feel to the screened in tent which is perfect for those warm summer nights. The center of the tent is just over 4 feet which makes it easy to get around in. There's also a vent on the solid back wall of the tent to increase airflow. 

The rain fly on this tent is also easy to setup and offers two vesitbules to store backpacks, boots or other gear outside of the tent. This helps keep the inside of the tent free of dirt and debrie. 

Eureka also makes other lightweight backpacking tents to suit a variety of needs from the solo backpacker to the outfitter. Visit the Eureka site to see their entire line of outdoor tents.