I know it is an unpopular view but how about an inflatable. The inflatables that are being made now are great. The have almost the same preformance as a hardshell and many are a lot cheaper. They are durible since they are made from the same things as whitewater rafts. Best of all is the portability and easy storage. They pack down to something the size of a duffle bag. I love mine and it is by no strech of the imagination a top end model. In fact it is entry level priced.
Sarge