The North Face Manta Ray 23 Tent 2-Person 3-Season

	Weight Matters! For two people, any backpacking tent should weigh less than six-pounds...preferably less.
	Don't Forget the Bulk. Packing a bulky tent sucks. Make sure it packs down tightly, ideally packing down to about 10x20 inches (smaller is better).
	Mesh Matters. As a general rule, the more mesh, the lighter the tent. For warmer three-season use, usually, the more mesh you have, the better. Not only does the mesh save weight, but also allows for better air-flow.
	Vestibules & The Rain. An often forget detail about backpacking tents are the vestibule. The vestibule provides a little canopy in front of your tent. Not needed during good weather, but absolutely needed during wet weather. Try to get one that is about 5 sq. feet large, or larger.
	Speaking of Rain... Make sure the entire floor of the tent is waterproof. Most are, but if the tent says the floor is just "water resistant"...don't buy it! You'll regret it the first time your sleeping in it during the rain.
	Remember the Footprint! Virtually all good backpacking tents also come with "footprints," which are essentially waterproof and tough tarps cut-out in the shape of the tent. Buy It! Not only does it enhance the tent's waterproofing, it also protects the bottom of the tent. Yes, they aren't cheap. But they are a lot cheaper than replacing the tent due to a sharp stick tearing a hole in the floor of your expensive backpacking tent!