How Much Do Backpacking Tents Weigh? – Outdoor Horizon
Backpacking is exhausting enough without having to carry additional weight. This might include everything from water to food to equipment. It all adds up and can make your walk more difficult than it has to be. The weight of your hiking tent is one of the most significant considerations to make while planning your trip. The typical weight of a camping tent is between 1-2 pounds and 6 lbs, depending on the model. Tents are often divided into three categories: ultralight, lightweight, and conventional.
We’ll go through each style of tent in further depth below, so that you can pick the best tent for your next adventure.
How Much Does A Backpacking Tent Weigh?
Despite the fact that there are no recognized weight ranges, the following are some average weights:
- Generally speaking, an ultralight camping tent weighs between one and two pounds, whereas a lightweight backpacking tent weighs between three and four pounds. A standard/traditional camping tent weighs between 5 and 7 pounds
- A lightweight backpacking tent weighs less.
Price and the recommendation of the salesman at the local shop are important considerations for many first-time travellers. When choosing a tent, it is important to consider how you want to use it before making a buying decision.
Comparing Backpack Tents
After looking at the figures, many individuals will conclude that a lightweight tent is the best option to choose. However, there is more to it than just physical weight. Backpacking tent weights will vary based on the qualities of the tent, including whether it is made of:
- Ultralight, lightweight, or standard
- One-person or two-person
- Three-season or four-season
- Ultralight, lightweight, or standard
So let’s take a closer look at these traits in greater detail. This will assist you in selecting the most appropriate tent for your hiking trip.
Ultralight, Light weight, And Traditional Tents
In accordance with the sort of vacation you’re going and the priorities you’ve set for yourself, you’ll be able to locate a tent that will meet your demands. A tent will often cost more money the lighter it is. This is true in most cases. Additionally, it should be emphasized that in order to achieve the weight savings observed in ultralight tents, these tents tend to compromise comfort, convenience of use, and durability.
Traditional Tents
A conventional tent will weigh between 5 and 7 pounds. Despite being heavier than its competitors, it is easier to set up and provides more comfort while on the route. These tents are composed of heavier, more durable materials than the previous models. Generally speaking, the classic tent is less expensive than the ultralight and lightweight models, and it is also a little more versatile. If you want to reduce some weight without incurring too much additional expenditure, you may consider replacing your steel tent pegs with more robust and lighter titanium tent stakes.
Lightweight Tents
As you reduce the amount of weight you save, the cost of the lightweight versions rises.
The following factors are important to this group: weight, cost, comfort, flexibility, and simplicity of assembly. These camping tents are between 3 and 4 pounds in weight, depending on the model. Here are a few ideas that you might want to think about: Tents that are easy to transport
Ultralight Tents
Ultralight tents defy convention and eliminate everything that isn’t absolutely required that may be found in standard and lightweight variants of the same product. They are often more expensive as they grow lighter, and they also employ more sensitive materials as they become lighter. They can be as light as 1-2 pounds in weight. If you want to spend a week on the path in a severely forested, rocky, or damp environment, you should invest in a more robust pair of shoes. If you’re going to be walking for a week in desert locations with warm temperatures, the ultralight and lightweight versions will be sufficient.
More Tent Options To Consider
Tents are available in both single-wall and double-wall construction variants, which further complicates matters. Double-wall freestanding tents include the tent as well as the fly, whereas single-wall tents incorporate elements such as mesh windows, zip enclosures, and the tent fly in a single package. Single-wall tents are less in weight than double-wall tents, but they are less comfortable. They are erected in the same way as standard tents, with guy lines, pegs, and trekking poles (or lightweight tent poles) to raise and lower the tent.
Here are a few ideas that you might want to think about: Tents with a single or double wall are available.
One-Person vs Two-Person Tent
Using a two-person tent when hiking alone is a popular choice, owing to the spaciousness and the ability to bring all of their stuff with them. That implies you’ll have to carry a bigger load. The higher weight, on the other hand, gives the benefit of a more comfortable sleeping environment, as well as reduced worry as a result of keeping their stuff on-site. Whenever the weather becomes bad and you have to retreat to your tent for the day, this is an excellent choice. Additionally, if you are traveling with a dog, the bigger tent will make the trip much more comfortable for him.
A smaller backpack reduces the weight over the long haul and reduces the wear and tear on the joints, particularly the back, knees, hips, and shoulders, which are particularly vulnerable.
Here are a few ideas that you might want to think about: Tents for one and two people
3-Season vs 4-Season Tent
A 4-season tent is simply a tent that can be used in every weather condition, whereas a 3-season tent is meant for camping in the spring, summer, and fall. A 4-season tent will usually be heavier than a 3-season tent, but this is vital when traveling out into the coldest portion of the year, when you will be exposed to the elements. Four-season tents provide protection against light hail, snow, severe winds, and the coldest of days and nights throughout the winter months. These tents do away with mesh surfaces and have a sturdy fly as well as a vestibule that extends all the way to the ground, which is especially useful when snow accumulates around the tent perimeter.
Four-season tents can weigh up to 15 pounds in total.
This style of camping tent is less in weight and offers more protection against the majority of the elements.
Here are a few ideas that you might want to think about: Three- and four-season backpacking tents are available.
Trail Weight vs Packed Weight
While these phrases are useful as a starting point, they are rarely indicative of the real weight of the tent when out on the trail. The trail weight of a tent is the total weight of the tent body, rainfly, and poles combined. It is sometimes referred to as the “minimum weight” of a tent when it is put up in its upright configuration. The weight of stakes, man lines, stuff bags, and other accessories such as pole repair kits/sleeves or patch kits is increased when they are packed or packaged.
The real weight is somewhere in the middle of the trail weight and the packed weight, often weighing between 5 and 8 pounds.
In order to backpack through deep wet forests, you’ll need to have something to mark your trail with.
How To Make Your Backpacking Tent Lighter
Once you have acquired your tent, you may elect to upgrade the materials used to make it lighter in weight. A significant reduction in the gap between trail weight and packed weight can be achieved by upgrading to ultra-lightweight poles, titanium stakes, and other high-tech materials. Although it appears to be an attractive option, it might out to be quite pricey after the initial purchase.
What About Dividing The Tent?
When hiking, it is a good idea to use one tent for two people and split the tent between them. A few broad criteria apply regardless of your style of backpacking: ultralightweight, lightweight, traditional, or traditional with a twist.
- A split tent weighing less than 2 pounds per person with a foundation weighing less than 10 lbs is termed ultralight
- 3 to 4 lbs per person is considered lightweight with a base weighing 15 to 20 lbs
- And 20 lbs or more is considered conventional.
It is possible to partition a 2-person tent in a variety of ways. One popular method is to divide the tent and stakes between two people, with the poles and fly going to the other. Allowing children help carry the tent stakes or fly is an excellent way to get them acclimated to joining in the experience without making them feel like they are taking on a big amount of responsibility. When traveling with a group of two or more persons, there is no need to separate the tent. One person is responsible for transporting the tent, and the rest of the group can share the meals evenly.
My wife is not nearly as physically strong as I am, so we split the equipment around 70/30 between us.
How Much Do Backpacking Tents Cost?
Backpacking tents can cost anywhere from $250 to $1,500, depending on their quality. The cost of higher-quality and lighter-weight materials rises in tandem with their quality. However, many of these lightweight tents are often less durable than the larger tents that are available at a cheaper price. Before you spend $1,500 on a tent, take some time to consider how you will utilize it. While reducing the weight of your camping tent may increase the cost of the equipment and lower its longevity, it may also assist minimize stiffness in your knees, back, and neck, which is an essential concern when hiking.
Choose the best backpacking tent for you by taking into account your selected trekking route as well as your personal physical abilities and limits.
Final Thoughts
Backpacking tents can range in weight from one pound to six pounds or more. It is determined by whether you choose a lightweight, ultralightweight, or regular tent. When calculating the entire weight of your camping tent, you must take into consideration the additional components such as tent poles and tent footprints.
How Heavy Is Too Heavy for a Backpacking Tent?
Because I am an Amazon Associate, I receive money when people make eligible purchases. Some of the links on this page may direct you to suppliers who have agreed to be compensated as “affiliate links.” It is possible that I will get a commission if you click on a link. A large number of individuals like hiking for the endless pleasure and adventure it provides, and backpacking undoubtedly has its own set of advantages. While planning for backpacking entails many characteristics that are specific to the sport, many of which include comfort and functionality while moving freely, there are some considerations that should be made in advance.
Backpacking tents weighing more than 6lbs may be too heavy for a single person to carry for an extended period of time, especially when combined with camping gear and clothes.
Although the weight of backpacking tents will undoubtedly have an influence on your experience while on the road, there are other other factors to take into account.
Bring your questions and join us as we examine the requirements of hiking tents in terms of their weight and utility.
How Heavy Should a Backpacking Tent Be?
Backpacking tents are a convenient and transportable type of shelter, allowing hikers to travel with a functioning and secure tent without having to deal with a large amount of difficulty. However, if these tents are overly hefty, they can become a burden, making an otherwise enjoyable trekking excursion boring and troublesome. The longer you have to drag it, the heavier it will become, and it will be well worth your time to invest in a lighter camping tent in the future. Backpacking tents should not weigh more than 6 pounds in order to provide the optimum comfort, and anything heavier than this may become difficult to transport.
There are certain disadvantages to lighter versions of the same product, but they are minor.
Lightweight Backpacking Tents’ Prices
Most of the time, the price of a hiking tent increases in direct proportion to its weight.
Although many alternatives are lightweight and cost-effective, the greater cost of a hiking tent should be taken into consideration when making your selection. Tents for one or two people that are high-quality, lightweight, and packable typically range in price from $200 to $900.
Quality of Lighter Backpacking Tents
Additionally, the overall quality should be taken into account because some manufacturers produce lighter backpacking tents within a fair price range while sacrificing quality in the process. The materials used must be long-lasting and solid, yet many manufacturers provide lightweight alternatives by employing thin, fragile cloth. In spite of this, there are lots of ultralight hiking tents that are robust and useful, and that are constructed of long-lasting materials. When choosing a lightweight camping tent, be sure to look at the materials it is made of.
Investing in a long-lasting, high-quality lightweight camping tent that will provide you with peace of mind and pleasant resting sessions will prove to be a worthwhile investment for your adventure.
Size Versus Amount of People
Although it is necessary to choose a trekking tent that is on the lighter side, these more lightweight backpacking tents frequently lack the amount of room that is required. Most are acceptable for lone travellers, but many may be too tiny for duos or small groups of friends traveling together. Individuals will need to examine how much area will be available for occupying and how much personal space they would desire while reclining before making their decision. Some two-person camping tents might weigh as much as 11lbs, which is much more than the recommended weight for this type of tent.
In order to be lighter, most backpacking tents should be built to be smaller in size.
When it comes to comfort, a three-person hiking tent may be preferable in some situations.
Luggage and Tools
An experienced hiker should take into consideration the size and weight of their tent as well as any other items they will be transporting while on the trail. When traveling, it is necessary to have enough room for camping goods, clothing, equipment, and other essentials. The internal area of the tent should also allow for the storage of these goods without interfering with the amount of space available for sleeping and lounging. Internal pockets for storage, for example, will help to alleviate these shortfalls in functionality.
Convenience While Traveling
Even while the hiking tent itself is far lighter than many other options, the mode of transportation and packing must be taken into consideration. Many hiking tents are intended to be compressed to a small size, which greatly enhances the simplicity with which they may be transported while on the road or in the wilderness. These tents are especially advantageous for travellers because of their small size and low weight.
What Is “Minimum Trail Weight” Listed on Tents?
When it comes to detailing the technical specifications of camping tents, manufacturers may be a little hazy. Nonetheless, a few hints will provide some insight into what you will be transporting and managing. When calculating how heavy a hiking tent will be when trekking, the minimum trail weight is an important aspect to consider because it reflects the tent’s minimal weight. This minimal trail weight criteria defines the weight of the basic essentials in terms of the tent’s components, which include the rainfly, the tent body, and the tent poles, among others.
Additional requirements for backpacking tentweight estimates include the packed weight, which is the total weight of all the components that come with the hiking tent, including the backpacking tent itself.
Because numerous more components are required for functioning, stability, convenience, and comfort, backpackers won’t just be bringing the base requirements with them.
Some of the additions, on the other hand, may be superfluous in your situation. As a result, the actual weight of the camping tent will fall somewhere between the minimal trail weight and the weight of the package, so keep an eye out for these specifications before making a final selection.
Final Thoughts on How Heavy Should a Backpacking Tent Be
Choosing a lightweight backpacking tent is unquestionably the best option, but outdoor enthusiasts should always pay close attention to the features, materials, and sizes available, as they will have a significant impact on the overall usefulness. The weight of your tent, among other things, should match the overall weight of your bag, take into account your strength and body weight, and be appropriate for the amount of time you will be carrying it. If you’re still not sure, try carrying something equivalent in weight to see how you feel before proceeding.
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIER Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent for 1-Person or 2-Person Camping, Trekking, Kayaking, Climbing, Hiking (Trekking Pole is NOT Included), Yellow, 2-Person | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
| Top | Drop + Dan Durston X-Mid Tent – Ultralight, Double Walled, Backpacking and Thru Hiking Shelter, Simple Pitch, Fully Waterproof, Supported by Trekking Poles (2 Person) | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | |
| Nemo Dragonfly Ultralight Backpacking Tent, 2 Person | Prime | Buy Now | ||
| Nemo Hornet Ultralight Backpacking Tent, 2 Person | Prime | Buy Now | ||
| Big Agnes Unisex’s Tiger Wall Tent, Grey/Gold, One Size | Prime | Buy Now | ||
| Big Agnes Unisex’s Copper Spur Tent, Orange, 2 Person | PrimeEligible | Buy Now |
Prices were obtained via the Amazon Product Advertising API on the following day:
How Much Should a Backpacking Tent Weigh – Choosing the right backpacking tent
Because it was just too hefty to carry, my first backpacking tent was a three-person, six-pound behemoth that rapidly became a vehicle camping tent due to its size and weight. Now, I’ve upgraded to a Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, which has the majority, if not all, of the things I was seeking for in a hiking tent when I first started shopping. The weight was the most essential of these characteristics. It is important to choose a tent with the suitable weight in order to keep your entire pack weight as low as possible.
When choosing a backpacking tent, while the basic rule of thumb is that each traveler should carry between 2-3 pounds in tent weight, there are several additional factors to consider that will affect the weight of your backpacking tent as well as your overall comfort while hiking.
Packed Weight Versus Trail Weight Versus Fast Fly Weight
When browsing for a tent to purchase, you will find that there are several distinct weights available: packed weight, trail weight, and rapid fly weight. Appalachian Mountain Club defines packed weight as everything that comes with the tent, including extra guylines, user manuals, repair kits, stuff sacks for the tent and its poles or stakes, and other miscellaneous items. The majority of this extra gear will not be required on the path. This takes us to the concept of trail weight, often known as minimal weight or minimum weight.
These weights do not accurately represent the real weight of what you could carry on the trail, which will vary based on the additional items you choose to bring along.
Fast flyweight refers to the combined weight of the fly, footprint, and poles, which means that the tent canopy may be left at home.
Backpacking Tent Size
Tent size can refer to a variety of different things. A number of people can be accommodated in the tent, or the actual size of the tent’s interior when fully set up is indicated by this term.
One, Two, or Three person Tents
Backpacking tents are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate the number of people who will be sleeping in the tent. If you are traveling alone, a one-person or two-person tent will be the most suitable option for you. The Big Agnes Copper Spur Hv Ul Tent is a fantastic ultralight backpacking tent that I personally recommend. Check here to see whether the Big Agnes Copper is still available for purchase on Amazon.com. While a one-person tent may save you weight, there will be little space within the tent for you to keep your belongings and gear.
If you are traveling with another person, a three-person tent will comfortably accommodate both of you while still leaving room for your belongings. By sharing the tent, rainfly, footprint, and poles between two persons, you may reduce the overall weight of the trip.
Peak height and Floor Space
You should also think about the height of the tent’s peak and the amount of floor area it has. The amount of space (measured in inches) between the ground and the highest point of the tent is known as the peak height. This figure will assist you in determining whether you will be able to squat, sit, or stand up in your tent. The floor size, which is measured in square feet, will decide whether or not you will be able to fully stretch out when sleeping in a tent. The floor area in a tent is normally 25″x80″, but if you are taller than average, you should strive for two feet of extra room.
Tent Construction
Tent construction is the term used to describe the technical characteristics and structure of a tent. Seasonality, double- or single-wall tents, tent set-up, and pole materials are all factors to consider. The weight and livability of a hiking tent are influenced by the characteristics of the tent.
Seasonality
In order to choose what type of backpacking tent you will need, you will need to consider the season and location of your hiking expedition. Tents may be utilized in a variety of different weather conditions depending on their season of use. Three-season and four-season hiking tents are the two varieties of backpacking tents available. When it comes to entry-level tents, the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 3-Person Tent is an excellent choice. Check here to check whether the ALPS Mountaineering tent is still available for purchase on Amazon.
- Tent for three seasons. 3 season tents are those which are utilized in the spring, summer, and fall seasons only. Designed to be both robust and lightweight, these tents frequently include mesh panels built into the design to allow for enough ventilation. Three-season tents provide protection from the elements, including rain and wind. Most hikers choose a 3-season tent over a 4-season tent because of the lightweight construction and the fact that 3-season tents are often less expensive. Unless you want to camp in extreme weather conditions, you will not require a tent that is more than three seasons in length. Tent for all four seasons. If you’re planning on traveling across mountains and dealing with extreme weather conditions, a 4-season tent is the way to go. 4-season tents, sometimes known as “winter tents,” are heavy-duty tents that are designed to endure adverse weather conditions such as high winds and heavy snow. When purchasing a 4-season tent, keep in mind that it will be heavier than a 3-season tent due to the double-wall construction and the bigger capacity required to hold insulating goods. If you want to spend a significant amount of time trekking at high altitudes, a 4-season tent is a necessary
- Otherwise, you will be miserable.
Double Versus Single Walled Tents
Tents are also available in two different designs: double-wall and single-wall. Weight, weather resistance, and comfort are all important considerations when comparing the two options.
- Double-wall tents are equipped with two layers of material: a breathable layer and a waterproof layer–the rainfly. Backpacking tents of this sort are the most frequent variety available. The fact that double-wall tents are frequently constructed with a mesh wall allows for improved ventilation, but they do not give as much protection against the cold as single-wall tents. Some double-wall tents are also available with a rapid fly option, which makes setup easier and faster. The trade-off is that these tents are often heavier than their counterparts
- Single-wall tents are made of a single waterproof material and are thus more expensive. These are the most commonly utilized in winter camping and climbing because they give more heat retention while allowing for less air circulation. As a result of this, the interior of these tents is prone to moisture. Single-wall tents are less bulky and easier to carry than double-wall tents
- They are also less expensive.
Backpacking Tent Set-Up
It is important to note that the way your tent is set up will have an impact on the weight of your hiking tent. There are significant variations between each style of tent that you should consider when deciding whether or not a tent is ideal for you. Setup, weather protection, weight, internal area, ventilation, and other characteristics are among those offered.
- Tents that stand alone. Tent poles, rather than stakes, provide the structural support and stability for a freestanding tent, making it simple to build and move around the campsite. Freestanding tents are often well ventilated, and they offer the benefit of having larger inside room. In addition, they are typically double-walled for further protection. Despite the fact that they are quicker to set up than a non-freestanding tent, the poles and dual-wall design of a hiking tent can increase the overall weight of the tent. Non-Freestanding. Non-freestanding tents, which are most popular among wilderness residents because of their lightest weight, require anchoring for structural support, which might be difficult to master the first time. Many non-freestanding tents are intended to be put up using trekking poles rather than the poles that come with them. If you are backpacking with trekking poles, this can help to reduce the weight of your tent overall. Single-wall tents are used for non-freestanding applications. The result is that they are lower in weight and simpler to transport
- Yet, moisture is their adversary. When it comes to the interior of these types of tents, condensation is considerably more prone to occur.
Other Tent Considerations
While size, seasonality, and set-up style are the key elements you should take into account when determining hiking tent weight, additional aspects can help you evaluate how livable the tent will be on the trail. Keep in mind that this will be your home away from home. If you are concerned about the weight of your hiking tent, here are some additional factors to consider when making your purchase.
- Doors. A tent with two doors will be significantly heavier than a tent with only one door. If you are sharing a tent with another person, it may be beneficial to have two doors so that you do not have to crawl over the other person to get out. If you’re traveling alone, a one-door tent may be the best option. Storage space on the inside. When camping, having a place to store your hat, telephone, or water bottle is always a welcome advantage to have on hand. Despite the fact that it will increase the weight of your tent, it is a useful feature to have. You can even purchase a separate gear loft if you so choose. Footprints. As a waterproof, sturdy covering between your tent and the ground, footprints may help you get more usage out of a tent for longer periods of time. In order to reduce weight, some trekkers prefer to leave their footprint at home
- Nevertheless, if you are traveling in a damp or rocky environment, it may be worth it to carry a footprint.
The tent footprint is raised a few inches to aid in the prevention of water and bugs entering the tent.
Backpacking Tent Options to Save Weight
In spite of the fact that there are several backpacking tent alternatives available, consider some of the options listed below if you wish to conserve weight:
Backpacking Ultralight Tent
Consider using an ultralight tent if you want to keep your weight down while still providing comfort on the trail while hiking. These tents are on the pricey side because to the high-tech materials that are utilized to ensure that they are “ultralight” in weight, which causes them to be three-season tents in the majority of cases.
Some of these tents may be set up using trekking poles, while others give the option of a quick fly set-up.
Bivouac or “Bivy” Shelters
A bivy, which is an abbreviation for bivouac sac, is one of the most lightweight choices available for single travelers. With a bivy, you can sleep comfortably with your sleeping bag and no other gear because the bag is waterproof and narrow, leaving your stuff exposed. A bivy is a lightweight sleeping bag that is designed for climbers, weight-conscious trekkers, and mountaineers who are ready to forego comfort in exchange for simplicity.
Backpacking Tarp Shelter
It is a single-wall structure constructed of waterproof and/or mesh material to keep you dry and ventilated while protecting you from the elements. You may either purchase a tarp tent or you can purchase a tarp to allow for further personalization of the tent. Using trekking poles, tarp shelters can be quickly and easily set up, and they are an excellent lightweight alternative if you want to be as versatile as possible with your hiking setup.
Hammock
If your major backpacking locations involve forests and warmer temps, then a hammock may be a good option for you to explore. These lightweight choices, which are similar to a double-wall tent, are hanging from a tree rather than being staked into the ground. As well as the hammock, a camping hammock will often feature an attached bug net and tarp that will hang from the ceiling. Hammocks, while often a little heavier than the choices described above, are simple to carry and put up, and they are an excellent Leave No Trace option as well.
Wrapping Up
With a packed weight of 3lbs 1oz, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is light enough for me to leave some of my belongings at home in order to lower my trail weight. With a three-season, double-wall, freestanding tent, I didn’t want to compromise on comfort, so I went with that. You should pick a camping tent that is no more than three pounds in weight in order to keep your base weight to a minimum, but bear in mind that your decision on a trekking tent is dependent on more than simply weight.
How Much Do Tents Weigh? 50+ Tent Weight Averaged [Ultimate Guide]
This is our definitive guide on tent weight and how to choose which weight is best for you. When it comes to preparing the vacation of a lifetime, the weight of your tent may seem like a little item to worry about. However, in practice, the weight of your tent may make or break your camping experience. Consider the following: a tent that is excessively heavy will be difficult to transport across long distances. Another possibility is that a tent that is too light (read: small) will be too crowded for that family vacation.
Our objective is to educate you on the significance of this often-overlooked issue and to motivate you to take action.
This equates to an average weight of 1.8 – 2 pounds per individual on average.
The average weight of a trekking-pole-supported 2-person tent is 1.8lbs, which equates to an average weight of 0.9lbs for each person in the tent. In addition, the average weight of a 4-person vehicle camping tent is 14.8lbs per tent, or 3.7lbs per person on average.
Backpacking Tents
Unless you’re a hiker, the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “tent” is most likely a backcountry camping tent. These sorts of tents are suitable for camping in any location and are specifically built for use in the bush. As a result, they’re compact and maneuverable, making them ideal for transporting across large distances. Backpacking tents are generally less than 5 pounds in weight, with some ultralight variants weighing as little as an ounce. This means that, despite their modest weights, these tents must be durable enough to survive the most basic of poor weather situations.
A range of four-person and two-person hiking tents are compared in the following charts, which may be seen below.
Ultimately, you must choose how significant living space is in comparison to saving valuable pounds on your back.
10 Backpacking Tents 4P – Weight Comparison Chart
The weight of these ten 4P camping tents is an average of 7.1lbs per tent. The average weight per person refers to the amount of weight that each person would have to carry if they were to distribute the various sections of the tent among themselves. For example, the tent poles are carried by one person, the tent itself by another, and so on and so forth. So, for example, if we’re talking about 4P tents, the average weight per person would be 1.8 pounds.
| Name | Packed Weight | Packed Size | Floor Space |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL4 | 5lbs 11oz | 7 x 22” | 57 sq ft |
| Exped Carina IV | 6lbs 9oz | 6.7 x 16.5” | 47.4 sq ft |
| REI Co-op Half Dome 4 | 6lbs 12oz | 8 x 24” | 56.1 sq ft |
| The North Face Talus 4 | 7lbs 3oz | 8.5 x 26” | 51.8 sq ft |
| Hilleberg Nallo 4 | 6lbs 10oz | 7 x 19” | 46.3 sq ft |
| MSR Papa Hubba NX 4 | 7lbs | 7 x 21” | 63 sq ft |
| Kelty Gunnison 4P | 9lbs 6oz | 4 x 16” | 58 sq ft |
| MSR Elixir 4P | 9lbs 3oz | 7 x 22” | 54 sq ft |
| Tarptent Hogback | 4lbs 2oz | 5 x 20” | 49 sq ft |
| Marmot Limelight 4 | 8lbs 8oz | 9 x 27” | 51.7 sq ft |
20 Backpacking Tents 2P – Weight Comparison Chart
The average weight of these 20 2P tents is 3.94lbs per tent, for a total weight of 20. So, taking into consideration the fact that tent weight is calculated as the average weight divided by the amount of capacity per tent (2P), the average weight per person for a group of two individuals is 2lbs.
| Name | Packed Weight | Packed Size | Floor Space |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 | 2lbs 11oz | 6 x 19.5” | 29 sq ft |
| MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 | 3lbs 14oz | 6 x 18” | 29 sq ft |
| NEMO Hornet 2 | 2lbs 6oz | 5.5 x 19.5” | 27.5 sq ft |
| Hilleberg Nallo 2 | 5lbs 5oz | 6 x 19” | 28 sq ft |
| Marmot Tungsten 2P UL | 3lbs 6oz | 7 x 24.5” | 30.6 sq ft |
| NEMO Dagger 2P | 3lbs 14oz | 19.5 x 6.5” | 31.3 sq ft |
| Sea to Summit Telos TR2 | 3lbs 10oz | 5.1 x 18.9” | 28 sq ft |
| Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 | 2lbs 8oz | 5.5 x 18” | 28 sq ft |
| Big Agnes Blacktail 2 | 4lbs 8oz | 7 x 21” | 33 sq ft |
| HykeByke Yosemite 2P | 5lbs 6oz | 6 x 17” | 33 sq ft |
| The North Face Stormbreak 2 | 5lbs 14oz | 7 x 22” | 30.6 sq ft |
| Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2 | 6lbs | 6 x 24” | 33 sq ft |
| NEMO Dragonfly 2 | 3lbs 1oz | 4.5 x 19.5” | 29 sq ft |
| MSR Access 2 | 4lbs 1oz | 6 x 18” | 29 sq ft |
| Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent – 3 | 5lbs 4oz | 5.9 x 16.5” | 29 sq ft |
| Exped Lyra II | 4lbs 9oz | 7.9 x 20.5” | 30.1 sq ft |
| Black Diamond Equipment Firstlight 2P | 3lbs 1oz | 6 x 9” | 27.3 sq ft |
| Naturehike Cloud-Up 2P | 3lbs 8oz | 5 x 15” | 35.5 sq ft |
| REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 | 5lbs 15oz | 8 x 18” | 31.7 sq ft |
Trekking-Pole Supported Tents
Backpacking tents with trekking poles are a subcategory of backpacking tents. As the name implies, these tents do away with the need of regular tent poles entirely. To make up for the lack of structure, they use yourtrekking poles to offer some support. And, because you won’t be using tent poles, these trekking pole tents are incredibly lightweight, weighing only 1-2 pounds. The fact that most serious hikers already bring trekking poles along with them makes employing those poles as tent supports while losing extra weight an ingenious idea in my opinion.
However, while there is no law prohibiting a younger hiker from using a trekking-pole supported tent, they are typically more difficult to pitch than a regular backpacking tent.
Even the 2P models may be claustrophobic and austere in their design.
Take note of the fact that all of the tents in our table below are 2P. This is due to the fact that 1 and 2P are the industry standard for trekking pole tents. Of course, there are three- and four-person models available, but they are few and few between, and they are not as well regarded.
10 Trekking-Pole Supported Tents 2P – Weight Comparison Chart
Averaging 1.8lbs per tent, these ten trekking-pole-supported 2P tents have a total weight of 10lbs. As a consequence, dividing the tent weight by the 2P capacity yields an average weight per person of 0.9lbs on average.
| Name | Packed Weight | Packed Size | Floor Space |
| Zpacks Duplex Tent | 1lb 5oz | 5.5 x 12” | 30 sq ft |
| REI Co-op Flash Air 2 | 2lbs 8oz | 7 x 16” | 28.7 sq ft |
| River Country Products Trekker 2.2 | 3lbs | 5 x 12” | 35 sq ft |
| Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2 | 1lb 2oz | 6 x 8.5” | 63 sq ft |
| Dan Durston X-Mid 2 | 2lbs 5oz | 6.5 x 12” | 32 sq ft |
| Marmot Agate 2P | 1lb 6oz | 6 x 23.5” | 34.5 sq ft |
| Tarptent Stratospire Li (2P) | 2lbs 5oz | 5 x 16” | 21 sq ft |
| Nemo Spike 2P | 1lb 5oz | 6 x 11” | 41 sq ft |
| Black Diamond Distance Tent with Adapter | 1lb 9oz | 5 x 12” | 26 sq ft |
| Gossamer Gear DCF 2 | 1lb 4oz | 5 x 19” | 28 sq ft |
Car Camping Tents
Vehicle campingtents receive their name from the fact that they are transported in the back of a car. That’s correct — these guys are much too hefty to carry about on your back, weighing anything between 10 and 20 pounds for a regular 4P tent. Their intended use is in approved campgrounds where you may drive up and unload your belongings before setting up your tent. Even more particularly, they’re ideal for camping vacations with the family as well as sitting about at the campsite itself. Car camping tents may grow to be monstrous proportions.
10 Car Camping Tents 4P – Weight Comparison Chart
Finally, the average weight per tent for this group of ten 4P car camping tents is 14.8lbs each tent. This results in an average weight of 3.7lbs per person based on four persons.
| Name | Packed Weight | Packed Size | Floor Space |
| CORE 4 Person Straight Wall Cabin | 13lbs 4oz | 8 x 27” | 56 sq ft |
| Outdoor Products Instant Cabin 4P | 21 lbs | 8 x 40” | 56 sq ft |
| Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup | 16lbs 7oz | 9 x 47” | 56 sq ft |
| The North Face Wawona 4 | 13 lbs | 10 x 27” | 58 sq ft |
| Marmot Limestone 4P | 11lbs 11oz | 10 x 27.5” | 60 sq ft |
| Coleman 4P Dark Room Skydome | 11lbs | 4.9 x 24.2” | 56 sq ft |
| Big Agnes Dog House 4P | 8lbs 10oz | 8.5 x 23.5” | 57 sq ft |
| MOON LENCE Pop Up Tent | 10lbs 8oz | 7 x 32” | 44 sq ft |
| Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe | 35lbs | 10 x 30” | 51 sq ft |
| Ozark Trail 4P Dome | 7lbs 8oz | 9 x 26” | 64 sq ft |
Packed Weight and Trail Weight Explained
In the event that, after reviewing our tables, you decide to conduct your own research on tent specifications, you may have observed something interesting. On the product page, there are frequently (but not always) two distinct weight specifications given. Huh? These two measurements are referred to asPacked Weight andTrail Weight, respectively. It can be a little perplexing at first to see two of them, especially given our tables only show the Packed Weight in the previous section. We opted to offer solely the packed weight since it is, after all, the weight that you should be most concerned with while you are packing.
Not only does it contain the tent, but it also includes everything else.
TheTrail Weight, on the other hand, is frequently a few ounces (maybe even a pound) less than the Packed Weight.
For example, you may decide not to carry all of the ropes, or you may decide to leave behind the extra stakes that were supplied to you.
Packed Size
The final factor to consider in our comparison tables is the packed size of the tent. The dimensions of a tent when it is filled into its sack and ready to be placed into your backpack are referred to as the packed size. Car campers, on the other hand, don’t have to worry about this portion because they have a whole trunk dedicated to tent storage. However, for backpackers, weight and physical space within their packs are also valuable resources. The fabric components of a tent can be squashed down to incredibly small sizes (think of the size of a pudgy water bottle), but when it comes to remembering your tent poles, things get a little more complicated.
- The folded poles are still typically 1 – 2 feet in length on average, despite the fact that they have been folded.
- Some ultralight tents have packed sizes of roughly 8″ in order to optimize the amount of space available in your bag.
- A considerably bigger extended-trip pack, with a capacity of up to 70 liters, would easily accommodate them.
- As a result, the tent will become cumbersome (and may even fail to fit!) within your backpack.
- Purchase a separate stuff sack that can be compressed to a minuscule size.
- What is the benefit of this?
Despite the fact that you still have to deal with lengthy, rather inconvenient poles, at least they’re not attached to your tent anymore. In comparison to the bigger tent bag that your tent initially came in, the compact stuff sack in which your tent is currently stored is significantly smaller.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Lightweight Tent
You might be thinking at this point that choosing the lightest feasible tent is the best course of action, especially if you’re a backpacker. But hang on a minute – while there are several advantages to using a lightweight tent, there are several significant disadvantages as well. First, let’s look at the positives. It goes without saying that these tents are great for transporting over long distances due to their modest weight. As a result, they also help to increase your stamina. Because your tent weighs less, you will have more energy to go longer because you will have less fatigue.
Lighter tents, on the other hand, tend to have less inside room.
Furthermore, the cost of lightweight tents constructed of high-quality materials will rise, particularly in the short term.
And, while we’re on the subject of materials, they can be a touch thinner and more fragile than ordinary tents.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Heavier Tent
Tents that are heavier are available on the other end of the range. Especially for those of you who like greater space to stretch out, they may appear to be an intriguing option. However, just like with their lighter counterparts, heavier tents have some significant drawbacks that must be considered in order to balance out their advantages. In all likelihood, a heavier tent will result in a larger tent, which will result in significantly greater living area. Your 4P tent might be as little as 4 people or as large as 10 people, depending on how hefty and huge you make it.
- To illustrate, imagine trying to survive a prolonged storm in a 1P bivy that is too small for your needs.
- The elephant in the room is without a doubt the weight you will acquire as a result of all this more space and capacity.
- Yes, this is doable with a 6 or 7lb 4P tent with a little effort.
- Those extra pounds will pile up throughout the course of the journey.
How to Choose Tent Weight
The preceding sections provided an idea of what to expect based on the weight of the tent you select to use. The next section will discuss how to select the tent weight that is most appropriate for you and your particular trip.
Trip Type
When selecting a tent, the first thing to consider is the sort of vacation you will be doing.
Are you planning to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in its entirety over the course of several months? Alternatively, are you arranging a get-together with pals around a campfire?
Personal Comfort Preference
After that, think about your own particular comfort preferences. There are no right or incorrect answers in this situation, either! What is the maximum amount of weight you are willing to bear? It’s possible that a thru-hiker will be content to carry an additional pound of gear in exchange for having enough space to sit up comfortably inside the tent. Of course, this question also applies to vehicle campers, so keep that in mind. However, you’ll still have to get your tent from the trunk to the campsite.
Conclusion
In order to select the most appropriate tent weight for you and your trip, there are a number of considerations to consider. It is hoped that you have gained an understanding of how simple the process of selecting a tent weight is. Be really honest with yourself since there is no wrong response in this situation. And remember, there’s no greater instructor than getting out there and doing it yourself! Make a test run with your tent in the field to see what works and what doesn’t for your needs.
Once you’ve had a taste of it, you’re certain to change your mind.
Quick Answer: How Heavy Is A Tent
In general, a tent should weigh roughly 2.5 pounds per person, according to the manufacturer. It’s important to remember that while hiking with a group of people, you may divide the weight of the tent, rain cover, and poles among the participants. When it comes to tent weights, there are often three advertised weights to choose from.
How much does a camping tent weigh?
When it comes to weight, a regular three-person tent can weigh anything from four to more than eight pounds, with the average weight being six pounds. Tents for three people that are extremely light weigh on average 4 pounds. Backpackers are typically interested in lightweight tents.
How much does a 2 person tent weight?
A two-person tent typically weighs roughly 4.5 pounds on average. Each person may divide the stuff, with each person only needing to carry 2.35lbs! 19th of March, 2018
Is 5 pounds heavy for a tent?
Tents used in the past A conventional tent will weigh between 5 and 7 pounds. Despite being heavier than its competitors, it provides simplicity of setup as well as comfort while on the course. These tents are constructed of more robust and long-lasting materials. Although the classic tent is slightly more expensive than the ultralight and lightweight models, it is also slightly more versatile.
How heavy should a backpacking pack be?
The weight of your backpack whether you’re camping or hiking should not be more than roughly 20% of your body weight, according to the National Geographic. (For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your backpack should not weigh more than 30 pounds when camping.) A day hiking pack that is fully laden should not carry more than roughly 10% of your total body weight, according to the American Hiking Society.
What should I look for in a one person tent?
How to Choose a Backpacking TentCapacity: the number of people who will be sleeping in the tent.
Seasonality refers to the timing of tent erection in relation to anticipated weather conditions. Weight is measured in ounces carried vs dollars paid. Livability includes a variety of factors such as well-placed interior space, ease of access, and simplicity of setup, among others.
How much weight can a person carry comfortably?
For their first few outings, the majority of beginners will carry between 30 and 35 pounds (including the pack itself). After accumulating more expertise and upgrading your equipment, your weight will most likely reduce to about 30 to 32 pounds. Some hikers like to keep their weight around the 30 pound range, while others aim to keep their weight as low as they can get it.
Are ultralight tents worth it?
The weight of a tent is a significant factor in determining its price. Tents that are lightweight but robust must be able to withstand the same amount of use as heavier tents. As a general rule, the lower the weight of the tent, the more expensive the tent will be in terms of price. This is clearly more vital when camping, and the additional expense is absolutely worth it for the relief it will provide to your back.
How much does a gallon of water weigh?
At room temperature, one liquid gallon of fresh water in the United States weighs approximately 8.34 pounds (lb) or 3.785 kilograms (kg).
How much do small tents cost?
Tents of various sizes are priced differently. Tent Size and Price Range on a Typical Day 1 Individual $40.00 – $150.00 $50.00 – $200.00 per person for two people 4 Person $50.00 – $250.00 6 Person $150.00 – $400.00 4 Person $50.00 – $250.00
How much money should I spend on a tent?
A tent in the $40 to $50 range is a good starting point for your spending budget. If you spend less than $50, you will be below the price range of the typical entry-level tent. Getting a nice 2-person tent with conventional characteristics such as waterproof seams is not difficult to come by.
How big is a 3 person tent?
A tent in the $40-$50 range is a good starting point for your budget. With a price of less than $50, you’ll be well within the average price range for an entry-level tent. With typical characteristics like as water-resistant seams, you can acquire an excellent 2-person tent.
Is a 4 season tent worth it?
In terms of performance, they are acceptable for summer and winter use. However, when you encounter early season snowfall or mixed weather conditions at higher elevations, they truly shine.” Four-season tents are a superior choice for most individuals, even when used as a dedicated winter camping tent. No, they aren’t equipped to deal with blizzards or feet of snow.
How much does a tent weigh in kg?
Backpacking solo tents of good quality typically weigh between 1 and 2 kilograms, whereas two-man tents can weigh up to 5 kilograms (approx.). To find out how much this weighs in terms of weight, visit an outdoor store and get a tent pack that weighs 5 kg.
What size tent do I need for 75 guests?
In a Single Glance Standing Cocktails Seated Dinners are available in various sizes. ten to ten (100 sq. ft) 16 to 20 ten ten and twenty cents (200 sq. ft) 30-35-years-old 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. (300 sq. ft) 50-55 years old 30 20/20 is a mathematical formula that represents the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of the square root of (400 sq.
ft) 65-75 years old 40
How much should a 2 person backpacking tent weigh?
Tents for two people with poles for backpacking MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Weight and Packing Dimensions 2 pounds 15 ounces 18 x 6 in. UL2 Bikepacking at Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2 pounds 15 ounces 13 x 6.5 in. Copper Spur High Voltage UL2 at Big Agnes 3 pounds, 2 ounces, 19.5 x 6 in. Nemo Dragonfly 2P (Nemo Dragonfly 2) 3 pounds. 2 oz. 19.5 x 4.5 in. 3 lbs. 2 oz. 19.5 x 4.5 in.
Should I get a 2 or 3 person tent?
In most cases, two large cushions will not fit in a two-person hiking tent. The advantage of choosing a three-person tent over a two-person tent is that you’ll have significantly more internal room for two people. This is one of the reasons why we choose three-person hiking tents.
Should I get a 1 person or 2 person tent?
Even if a one-person tent may suffice, a tarp may require an area large enough to accommodate two people in order to lay their things out below it. Two-person tents are ideal since they provide ample space for all of your belongings. If you choose a one-person tent, you may not have enough space to keep your belongings dry in the event of rain.
How light is a lightweight tent?
Lightweight is an important consideration when purchasing a vehicle (4.5 to 3 pounds) When we go down to the lightweight category, we discover tents that preserve the majority of the comfort, internal space, and features of heavyweight tents while reducing their weight through the use of thinner materials and less material.
What should you not take backpacking?
5 Things You Shouldn’t Bring on Your Backpacking Trip 1) A gigantic rucksack of supplies. 2) A plethora of extra clothing. Things you can’t afford to lose: 3) Anything you can’t afford to lose. 4) There are too many multiples of too many things. 5) Large quantities of medical supplies are available for purchase.
Should I get a 4 or 6 person tent?
You’ll find that a 4-person tent is more comfortable for two people, and you’ll have more space to stretch out and store your belongings. I recommend a 6-person tent for a family of four to be comfortable. In general, get a tent that can accommodate two more people than the number of individuals who will actually be using it as a guideline.
