Denali, nature hike or other?

[danthewoman]

Hi, very new to hiking so am in the middle of buying all of my gear. I bought a Denali vortex 2 recently but am worried as it is 2.6kg. I have considered the nature hike (online) but also the companion pro. It is likely to be used in QLD all year, maybe the blue mountains in autumn. My young son (8) will accompany me from time to time so needs to be a 2 person and I don’t want to spend more than $300 until I know for a fact that this will be a regular thing. For now just 3 day hikes, working towards the overland but if I need to update my tent later that is fine. Any opinions? Very keen to learn

[Baeng72]

Hi,
I started hiking with my son when he was 8.
I was carrying all the heavy gear (including tent) and started with a 3kg tent and pretty heavy bags (1.6kg). So it can be done!
All other things being equal, lighter gear is better because it makes it easier on you.
If you're in QLD, I'm guessing you won't be near zero degrees, so you can buy quite light bags that will lessen the weight and keep you warm.
Online sites like Aliexpress have bags and tents that are not that expensive, and you don't need to buy it all at once.
A better way to go, especially if your tent is bomb-proof, is buy other gear to progressively lighten the load.
I think at the start I was also carrying the proverbial kitchen sink as you think you need everything, but experience can help work out what you don't need and that which you do can gradually be swapped out for lighter stuff.

[bernieq]

After a quick look at the tent (online), I can offer a couple of things to consider. Yes, it's comparatively heavy but certainly low cost. It would be OK for QLD & NSW.

It doesn't have a vestibule so all your gear, packs etc, would need to fit in the tent with you - tricky in rain as all the gear is wet.

The door design doesn't stop rain from entering the tent (if door open for ventilation or when getting in/out).

Rain is a bit of a focus for Victorians - maybe in sunny qld it's not an issue

[EGM]

For now use what you have, unless you want to return it.

Naturehike stuff is reasonable but be careful because some sites sell them for way too much.

I'd say for now use what you have and start looking for something better second hand. You'll be surprised what you can get for $300

[danthewoman]

Thank you! That is a great point about gear out in the weather or possibly wet inside. I will likely take it back, it hasn’t been pitched yet, just bought a couple of days ago.
I will definitely look for some second hand options.
I wonder how long delivery would take if I did go the nature hike option

[johnrs]

Hi DTW
Maybe have a look at 3F UL gear and also Aegis Max, all online china brands.
Pretty reasonable quality
John

[CraigVIC]

You could take a look at the Mountain Designs Redline which you could exchange for the Denali. Don't know anything about it except that it looks the part (moreso than the vortex) is a bit lighter and sure to be good enough quality for a handful of trips.

[Katrive]

I started hiking with my daughter when she was about the same age, and wow, I totally get wanting to keep things light. My first tent was around 3kg too, and while it worked for a bit, I quickly realized how much easier trips got when I upgraded to lighter gear over time.

From what you’re saying, it sounds like you’re testing the waters without breaking the bank, which is the best way to start. If the Denali feels too bulky, especially for hikes with some elevation, I’d definitely recommend trialing second-hand options like others mentioned. My current go-to is a decent quality lightweight tent I snagged online, game changer, especially for trekking in areas with unpredictable weather.

If you ever find yourself wanting a break from hiking and looking for a chill family vacation, resorts like https://www.westgateresorts.com/vacation-packages/ offer great deals. I’ve stayed at similar places that help reset after outdoor adventures—plenty of comfy space and family-friendly options.

[Katrive]

I’ve used the Denali Vortex 2 before, and while it's a decent tent for the price, 2.6kg can definitely feel heavy, especially on longer hikes. I’ve also tried out a Naturehike tent, and for the price, it's a great option—lighter and packs down smaller. If you’re planning on hikes in QLD and the Blue Mountains, make sure the tent has good ventilation and can handle some rain, but you don’t need to go overboard just yet. I’d say the Companion Pro is also worth considering as it’s light, affordable, and a good size for two people. Since you’re just starting out, you can always upgrade later once you’re sure hiking’s a regular thing.