Kelty Late Start 2P
Specifications
| Capacity | Seasons | Pack Weight | Pack Size | Floor Area | Doors | Freestanding | Peak Height | Floor Dimensions | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 4 lbs 12 oz | 16 X 6.5 in | 30.6 sq ft | 1 | Yes | 40 in | 89 x 54 x 42.5 in | $159.95 |
Comfort
The Late Start 2P is a delightfully roomy and user-friendly shelter that offers surprisingly comfortable interior space relative to its affordable, easy-pitch design. The pre-bent poles and Quick Corner technology help create vertical sidewalls and a deep bathtub floor, allowing two full-length sleeping pads to lie side by side with some extra head and toe room, which reduces the feeling of confinement. Though it features just one door and vestibule, the nearly vertical mesh walls, generous internal pockets, and color-coded setup ensure smooth ventilation and organization—making it a cozy fit for campers seeking simplicity, comfort, and livability at a budget-friendly price point.
Weight and Packability
Despite its roomy interior and durable build, the Late Start 2P is relatively lightweight and easily packable — though far from ultralight. The tent’s trail weight is 4 lb 5 oz (minimum) and its packaged weight is approximately 4 lb 12 oz. It compresses into a stuff sack sized around 16 × 6.5 in fitting cleanly into most backpack compartments. Kelty also highlights practical touches like pre-attached guy lines, sturdy aluminum poles, and a “Shark Mouth” sack with wide opening — all designed to streamline setup, breakdown, and packing for users who want more interior comfort without hauling a car-camping shelter.
Price
The Late Start 2P is an exceptionally affordable yet thoughtfully engineered backpacking tent, with an MSRP of $160, placing it well below most lightweight two-person tents while still offering impressive interior space and setup convenience. Compared to competitors in its class, it delivers standout value—providing generous livability, durable materials, and practical features all at a price point often matching or undercutting entry-level models.
Quality and Materials
This tent delivers exceptional durability and functionality at an accessible price point. Its 68D polyester floor and rainfly feature a 1200 mm waterproof rating, offering good protection and reliable weather resistance in three-season use without leaks or seepage. The tent’s aluminum poles are sturdy yet lightweight, and its pre-attached reflective guy-lines and taped seams highlight thoughtful construction. With its bathtub-style floor, wind-friendly aerodynamic profile, and well-considered design details, including full-coverage fly and vent placement, the Late Start stands out for combining dependable performance with durable materials designed to endure backcountry use.
Consumer Sentiment (Pros and Cons)
Pros:
- Quick and easy setup with Kelty Quick-Corner Technology
- Spacious interior with ample headroom
- Durable materials suitable for various weather conditions
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Only one door and vestibule, which may limit accessibility
- Heavier than some backpacking tents
Comparison to Comparable Items
REI Co-op Trailmade 2P: The Kelty Late Start 2P is lighter and more compact with a faster, easier setup, while the REI Trailmade 2P offers slightly more interior space and durability at a similar budget-friendly price.
Naturehike Cloud Up UL2: The Late Start 2P is more spacious and durable with a freestanding design better suited to variable terrain, while the Cloud Up UL2 is significantly lighter and more packable, making it a stronger option for ultralight backpackers willing to sacrifice a bit of livability.
NEMO Hornet OSMO 2P: The Hornet OSMO 2P is ultralight and compact with dual doors, but with less interior space and higher cost.
Who is this For?
The Kelty Late Start 2P Tent is ideal for beginner campers looking for an affordable, reliable shelter that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or protection. It’s a great fit for car campers and weekend backpackers who want a tent that’s quick to set up and roomy enough for two without the complexity of ultralight gear. With its durable materials and dependable weather resistance, the Late Start 2P appeals to those who prioritize ruggedness and ease of use over cutting every ounce from their pack.
