condensation in microlight tent

[rhall]

Hi I'm shopping around for a new tent and macpac microlight seems the best for my needs.People mention that there's alot of condensation .I'd like to clarify whether this is on the fly or on your belongings inside the tent.On the fly wouldn't bother me much, but getting my sleepng bag soggy would, as it damages the down to pack it up wet.Any tips to lessen the condensation welcomed too.Thanks

[corvus]

Condensation in the Microlite occurs on the inside of the inner so you will need a sleeping bag with a water resistant cover,they are good single person shelters however I am still (like most owners) trying to work out a way to ease this condensation.
c

[Julafreak]

I know this is going to be abit off topic.. but I heard wet sleeping bag in a tent? hmm.. Ive just got a sleeping bag. Its like my baby now.. lol.. should I get a cover to keep it dry? What brand would you recommend, corvus?

[Ent]

First a pack liner when carrying it is not a bad start Second in a tent condensation can be a problem with certain tents. Generally the smaller the tent the greater the issue. Tents that do not have a top vent and lower ventilation are going to be a problem and does make me wonder the thinking process behind some designs. Also in a small tent it is easier to bump the sides and get the bag damp. Depending on the bag this is more a annoyance than a serious issue as many modern bags have a water resistant coating. The issue is a wet bag losses warmth rating and is just plain unpleasant.

The best cure of condensation is to get a tent big enough for the people in it not to touch the sides and has a design with flow through ventilation and then have the tent open as possible. It might be a problem for some people that the Microlight is just too small for many people.

Julafreak what bag (brand, weight, length, rating) did you get and the cost?

Cheers Brett

[corvus]

I know this is going to be abit off topic.. but I heard wet sleeping bag in a tent? hmm.. Ive just got a sleeping bag. Its like my baby now.. lol.. should I get a cover to keep it dry? What brand would you recommend, corvus?

Jules,
I hear what you are saying but could not really recommend a brand on open forum which one did you purchase ? PM me if you like.
corvus

[beanie kids]

I've had a Macpac for about 15 years - its the one a little bigger than the Microlight but not made anymore. Yes, it gets condensation but only inside the fly and a little inside - especially as it sleeps 2 (and a few toddlers as well in the past) and we end up sleeping against the sides. my bag does get a bit damp on the outside but nothing to worry about. I thought recently I would buy another lightweight tent and give the Macpac to the Beanie Kids - and that I would get one that gave more air - the Macpacs all get condensation as they zip up so tight and are generally too hot for summer hiking - even with vents open. My new tent is very nice as it doesn't sag at all and I have my own side zip to get in and out without climbing over the lad. The inside is just sandfly mesh, so in the morning there was very little condensation - BUT just two very very very cold inhabitants.....so I reckon you gotta choose - sleep in thermals or put up with condensation?? I still reckon the old Paddy Pallin green canvas with your feet sticking out the end was good value.....so long as you never ever touched the sides and were happy to maybe wake up in a river of water!

[sthughes]

Yes they condensate heaps but no I've never had issues getting my bag or gear wet, only my shoulders when I sit up.

[rhall]

Thanks folks..it's always a compromise of weight , volume and cost with gear.I'm reassured that it's mainly on the tent not it's contents unless of course you bump it. Good thing is the height which helps me not bump it,I should be OK