REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent
Head-to-head comparison: specs, scores and expert verdict
REI Co-op
REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent
Best for: Versatile three-season backpacking and car camping.
Big Agnes
Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent
Best for: Affordable three-season backcountry backpacking
Our Take
Worth flagging before you compare: the REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent is a dome and the Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent is a backpacking, so these two sit in different shelter categories.
Both score 7.9 overall, though the Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent wins more individual scoring categories.
The main tradeoff: the REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent leads on build quality despite trailing overall.
The Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent also has a price edge — $49 less at $349 versus $399.
Your best pick will come down to personal priorities, so check the full specs comparison below.
🏆 Our pick: The Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent scores higher overall.
Ask our AI for a personalised recommendation based on your camping style, group size, and budget.
Score Comparison
Pros & Cons
REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent
- Incredible airflow, zero condensation
- Vertical walls maximize headroom
- Massive perimeter mesh storage
- Smallest floor space
- Baffling pole setup
Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent
- Great technical value for backpackers
- Color-coded poles make setup simple
- DAC hubs create roomy interior
- Extremely cramped for three people
- Poor ventilation causes wet walls
Full Specs
| Spec | REI Co-op Flash 3 Tent | Big Agnes C Bar 3 Backpacking Tent |
|---|---|---|
| Tent Type | Dome, Backpacking | Backpacking, Dome |
| Capacity | 2 people | 2 people |
| Seasons | 3 Season | 3 Season |
| Est. Price | $399 | $350 |
| Weight | 4.5 Lbs | 4.9 Lbs |
| Min Trail Weight | 4 Lbs. 1 Oz. | 4 Lb 5 Oz |
| Floor Area | 40.9 ft² | 39.0 ft² |
| Vestibule Area | 19.5 | 11 Sq Ft |
| Peak Height | 44 | 44 |
| Doors | 2 | 1 |
| Floor Dimensions | 88 X 70 Inches | 88 X 66 In |
| Pole Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Floor Fabric | Nylon | Recycled 75D Polyester Taffeta |
| Rainfly Fabric | Nylon | Recycled 75D Polyester Taffeta With 1500mm Waterproof Polyurethane Coating And PFAS Free Water Repellent Finish |
| Packed Size | — | 16.5 X 53cm |
| Setup Time | 10 Mins | 10 Mins |
| Warranty | None | Limited Lifetime |
| Made In | Imported | Imported |
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