December 2016

Read more from

December 2016

Price:

$$799

Our Rating:

The Carina II is a sturdy and spacious 2.9m² tent that maintains a reasonable trail weight (2.3kg) for its size.

Two main poles, and a third which provides more shape than stability, form the frame of the tent and allow it to be free standing. This allows the fly to be completely rolled up to view the sky or for ventilation on warm nights. If it rains, it’s a quick task to unfurl and clip to the pegs.

The fly and inner are pitched separately; good for versatility, but not so good for pitching in the rain. The fabrics are light, but not so light they might tear easily, and the floor, while lightweight, is actually sturdy and comes with a 5000mm rating – enough that using a footprint is not essential.

Interior space is abundant, easily accommodating tall people and their gear – and that’s without counting vestibule space, which is generous.

Steep walls and large entrances add to this tent’s living appeal.

Cam-lock guy line tensioners, a stuff sack that separates wet and dry parts of the tent and a practical pole and peg bag enhance a reliable product.

Mark Watson

About the author

Mark Watson

Wilderness gear editor Mark Watson divides his workdays between graphic design, writing and photography. His passion for tramping, climbing, cycling and storytelling has taken him all over Aotearoa and the world in search of great trails, perfect moves and epic light. He has published four books and his photographs have featured in numerous publications. Especially motivated by long distance travel, he has tramped Te Araroa and cycled from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego.

More From Gear Reviews

Similar Articles

Malaysia cracks down on fastpackers after 30% jump in rescues

Tararua peak hopes to bear Shaun Barnett’s name

Hiker treks 16km to safety after impaling himself with pole

MSR Hubba Hubba LT 1 Tent Review

Bach Piopio Solo tent review

Macpac Trilight 3+ Tent Review

Trending Now

The ghost lodge of Ruapehu

Kuataika and Smyth Ridge tracks, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park

In search of greatness

Maungatautari Over the Mountain Track, Waikato

Lake Stream Hut, Victoria Forest Park

Subscribe!
Each issue of Wilderness celebrates Aotearoa’s great outdoors — written and photographed with care, not algorithms.Subscribe and help keep our wild stories alive.

This article is exclusively for Wilderness subscribers

Already a subscriber?  

Subscribe to read this article immediately and unlock exclusive 10-15% discounts at NZ’s best outdoor stores. 
Cancel anytime. 

Website Subscription

Print + Website

1

free articles left this month.

Already a subscriber? Login Now