Jean W said:For instance Betsey enjoys cooking and brings lots of cooking items and shares great food!
Thanks for the kind words!
Jean pretty much covered it (no pun intended!)but I'll add my insights (for what they are worth).
We have an EZ-Up that we take with us if we are going to be in one campground longer than a few days or if we aren't certain what the weather will be. If we are touring (different spot every day) or if the weather is looking good for the weekend, we don't use it. Same with the side tent.
I also have opportunities to travel/camp by myself. Due to wrist surgeries, I no longer have the strength to put up the EZ-Up by myself. So, I had Craig pick up an REI Alcove & a set of sidewalls, based on the recommendations here on the forum. I can easily put it up on my own & still have shade or rain protection while I am cooking/eating. If the weather necessitates the use of the side walls, I have them. It is fairly lightweight & takes up very little space - no more than the side tent.
As for storing, they both travel in the car. When we travel, we usually keep the bed free from stuff. Big exception is the Camp-Outt, when we are having to haul A LOT of stuff! But at least that isn't far from home.