Any cheap helicopter tape / surface guard tape options?

[Flying Trunk Monkey]

I'm still building my Framed CFR696 bike up. While bikepacking I ride in a lot of different conditions, some are pretty messy. Also, bikepacking bags can cause wear on a frames finish in pretty short order (dirt/grit/mud gets between the bags and frame and acts as an abrasive with the vibrations). On my last frame I bought a 3"x 30' roll of 14 mil tape from Amazon. That $64 roll is is not $73. Seems like there has to be some cheaper options.

Also, does anyone have any experience with the 8 mil thickness of helicopter tape? The 14 mil has held up very well but it was difficult to install in highly contoured areas like the bottom of fork arches and inside the chainstay arch. I'm thinking the 8 mil might be easier to work with. Granted, I've since learned to use soapy water and a squeegee and heat to apply it so I might get better results if I were to use the 14 mil again.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004FKPAKG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[00Garza]

I used this one from Amazon. It’s not full frame coverage, but it was one of the few “matte” options. Not as glossy as regular helicopter tape.
Covered the whole bottom of down tube, top of top tube, inside of fork, and back of seat tube.

Lamin-x Bicycle Frame Tape Guard... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079LR76JV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[svanimpe]

I use ESI silicone tape. It doesn't stick to your frame, but sticks to itself. It's super easy to apply and remove, and leaves no residue.

I've now ordered an AliExpress version (about half the price of ESI), to inspect the quality:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005045929295.html

[kbernstein]

Am I stupid or are these options the biggest scams in the world? What makes them $70 per roll?
I'm at my third hardware store visit but I can't find anything suitable 

[TidyDinosaur]

I use this and just cut it to size...
https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B08ML8RC7B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[kbernstein]

I use this and just cut it to size...
https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B08ML8RC7B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thank you, ordered some

[TidyDinosaur]

 
Use some soapy water and a hairdryer when applying. After a while you will get the hang of it
I would also suggest to put the tape on both chainstays (drive and non-drive). From front to back... I did not do it, and damaged it with the chain and with my shoes (overshoes + muddy ride = scratches)