Which is better for backpacking?

The Half Dome 2 Plus. At 5 lb trail weight it can be split between two packs; the Skylodge is a car-camping tent built around pre-attached poles.

Which is better for a family of four?

The Skylodge in the 4-person size. The Half Dome 2 Plus sleeps two, and its 3.5 ft center height rules out standing.

Which sets up faster?

The Skylodge. Coleman rates it under 5 minutes with pre-attached poles. The Half Dome 2 Plus needs its poles threaded and the fly pitched.

Is the Skylodge worth the extra over its low price?

Its lowest recent price was $104.99 on November 4, 2026, versus $177.50 on October 30, 2026. At the low end it is good value for a large instant tent; near the high end, wait for a drop.

Which handles wind better?

Coleman tests the Skylodge frame to 35 mph. REI publishes no wind rating for the Half Dome 2 Plus, but a low dome sheds wind better than a tall cabin tent.

Can I stand up in either tent?

Only in the Skylodge, which has a 6 ft center height on the 4-person size. The Half Dome 2 Plus tops out at 3.5 ft.

REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent vs Coleman Skylodge Instant Tent

Buy the REI Half Dome 2 Plus if you carry your tent on your back and want two doors and real weather protection for two people. Buy the Coleman Skylodge if you drive to camp and want a big, fast-pitching tent for a family. The Half Dome 2 Plus is a backpacking tent at 5 lb trail weight; the Skylodge is a car-camping tent that pitches in under 5 minutes. The Skylodge's lowest recent price was $104.99 on November 4, 2026, against a high of $177.50 on October 30, 2026.

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