What Is The Best Ultralight Backpakcing Tent

10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Tents of 2022

You’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of quick tent setup if you follow these guidelines! So why not put your newfound knowledge to the test at a KOA campground? Considering that KOA has over 500 locations around North America, you’re sure to discover one that’s convenient for you. Thanks to its high-quality parks, KOA provides a diverse range of camping alternatives, including clean, level Tent Sites that are suitable for tent camping. A KOA campground provides access to amenities such as fire rings, laundry facilities, playgrounds, clean restrooms, and a KOA store, allowing you to make the most of your camping experience while staying in a comfortable setting.

KOA campgrounds may be seen and reserved right now.

Make / Model	People	Type	Material	Min Weight
Zpacks Plex Solo	1	Single Wall	DCF	13.9 oz / 395g
Tarptent Double Rainbow Li	2	Single Wall	DCF	26.4 oz / 746g
Gossamer Gear “The One”	1	Single Wall	Sil/PU Nylon	17.7 oz / 503g
Durston X-Mid 1	1	Double Wall	Sil/PeU Poly	28 oz / 795g
REI Quarter Dome SL 1	1	Double Wall	PU Nylon	31 oz / 879g
Zpacks Duplex	2	Single Wall	DCF	19.0 oz / 539g
Tarptent Aeon Li	1	Single Wall	DCF	17 oz / 490g
MSR Freelite 2	2	Double Wall	Sil/PU Nylon	32 oz / 910g
Tarptent Notch Li	1	Double Wall	DCF	19.9 oz / 562g
NEMO Hornet Elite 2	2	Double Wall	Sil/PeU Nylon	27 oz/ 779g

If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of quick tent setup. Why not put your abilities to the test at a KOA campground? KOA offers more than 500 locations across North America, so you’ll be able to locate one that’s convenient for wherever you’re going. Thanks to its high-quality parks, KOA provides a diverse range of camping alternatives, including clean, level Tent Sites that are suitable for tenting. KOA campgrounds have amenities such as fire rings, laundry facilities, playgrounds, clean restrooms, and a KOA store to ensure that you get the most out of your camping stay.

Find and rent a KOA camping in your area right now!

1. Zpacks Plex Solo (1P)

Zpacks Plex Solo is a single wall trekking pole tent that weighs 13.9 ounces and is built of Dyneema DCF, which does not stretch or droop throughout the night and is exceptionally waterproof. You can go in and out from either side of the front vestibule thanks to a deep bathtub floor that keeps you dry, high walls that keep powerful winds and snow at bay, and a rainbow zipper that makes it simple to get in and out. One trekking pole is required for the setup. If you’re a taller hiker or need even more headroom, we recommend upgrading to theZpacks AltaPlex Tent, which is almost identical to the Zpacks AltaPlex Tent but with a longer bathtub floor.

2. Tarptent Double Rainbow Li (2P)

A roomy Dyneema DCF tent, the Tarptent Double Rainbow Li is not a trekking pole tent, but it does contain a carbon fiber tent pole and strut for added durability. Single-wall ultralight camping tent with a weight of 28.6 oz, it’s a favorite among couples who desire more internal space to spread out and relax. With two entrances and two vestibules for gear storage, this tent may be put up on wooden tent platforms by attaching trekking poles to the tent’s corners. It can accommodate up to two people.

The interior tent walls have partial fabric sidewalls for enhanced wind and splash protection. Tarptent has the most up-to-date pricing information.

3. Gossamer Gear “The One” (1P)

Gossamer Gear’s “The One” trekking pole tent is a lightweight, single-wall trekking pole tent that weighs 17.7 ounces and is made of nylon. Interior space that seems like a castle for one person, as well as great ventilation to assist avoid internal condensation are all features of this vehicle. The One is constructed of 10d Sil/PU ripstop nylon and is factory seam-taped, allowing you to wear it without the need for seam-sealing. With a big central aperture that can be closed entirely in rainy weather or pulled back for views and air, the entrance vestibule is quite spacious.

In addition to the One, which weighs 15.3 oz and comes with a Dyneema DCF rain fly, there is a Two.

4. Durston X-Mid 1 (1P)

The Dan Durston X-Mid 1P is a 28-ounce double-wall trekking pole tent that is incredibly simple to erect. It is made by Dan Durston. It is necessary to use trekking poles to set up this 2-door tent, which is comprised of 20D polyester with a 2500mm sil/PEU covering. Almost all of the seams are taped, and the inner tent is optional, so you may elect to simply use the rainfly if that is what you want. X-mid can be setup fly first in the rain to keep the inner tent dry, and it provides lots of storage room for your camping stuff on the interior of the tent.

Read the SectionHiker X-Mid 1P review for more information.

Go to Kazovo Outdoors to find out the current price.

5. Tarptent Aeon Li (1P)

The Tarptent Aeon Lisingle-wall tarp tent features a floating bathtub-style bottom and a mesh front wall, and it is available in black or blue color. The Aeon Li weighs 15.8 ounces and is designed to carry one person and their belongings. It just only one trekking pole to set up, and it includes a side entrance that makes it much easier to enter and exit the tent. The Dyneema DCF laminate used in the construction of the Aeon Li is extremely lightweight and waterproof, and it is taped and sewed together for strength and durability.

Take a look at the SectionHiker review.

6.REI Quarter Dome SL 1 (1P)

The REI Quarter Dome SL 1 is a one-person double-wall tent that weighs 31 ounces. It is designed for light backpacking. Despite its light weight, the inside is surprisingly habitable, thanks to vertical sidewalls, multiple internal pockets to keep you organized, and a ceiling vent to assist reduce internal moisture and condensation on the outside.

While a spacious vestibule gives plenty of extra space for gear storage, a dual-zippered door allows for top-to-bottom ventilation while keeping the bottom sealed for enhanced wind protection and privacy. Take a look at the SectionHiker review. Visit REI for the most up-to-date pricing information.

7. Zpacks Duplex Tent (2P)

The Zpacks Duplex is a single-wall trekking pole tent constructed of Dyneema Composite Fabric that weighs only 19.0 ounces and has a diameter of 66 inches. It provides plenty of room for one person and their belongings to stretch out, but it can also accommodate two people comfortably. Due to the fact that it has two entrances, you will have ample ventilation and vestibule area on both sides of the tent, and you will not be required to crawl over your spouse while going for a nightly walk. The Duplex is equipped with a complete bathtub floor, seam taped seams, and mesh sidewalls to provide bug protection from the elements.

The Duplex, on the other hand, may be extremely drafty in cold weather and is best suited for usage in warmer and drier weather.

Take a look at the SectionHiker Review.

8. MSR Freelite 2 (2P)

The MSR Freelite 2 is a 32 oz two-person tent with two entrances and two vestibules that has been updated for 2022. It retains the actual rectangular floor, which is 50 inches wide, and does not have a foot taper, as do most other two-person tents on the market. A unified hub-and-pole system, as well as a symmetrical design, allow for extremely rapid assembly. Cable connections for headphone and charging cords are located in the corners of the pockets on the inside, and the overhead gear loft pockets are ideal for storing goods such as headlamps, sunglasses, and other items that need to be reached quickly.

9. Tarptent Notch Li (1P)

Designed for one person, the Tarptent Notch L I has two vestibules and two doors and weighs 21.5 oz. The Tarptent Notch L I is a double-wall tent with two vestibules and two entrances. Made of Dyneema Composite Fabric, it is a wind and weather resistant shelter that can withstand heavy winds. There is enough of headroom and space to fit a big 25-inch sleeping pad, as well as spacious vestibule areas for gear storage, cooking in the rain, or keeping a canine friend company. Peak and end vents assist in maintaining ventilation even under adverse weather conditions.

Take a look at Section Review of Hiker Notch.

10. NEMO Hornet Elite 2 (2P)

Incredibly light at 27 ounces, the NEMO Hornet Elite 2 is a two-person, double-wall tent constructed of ultralight materials. It has two entrances as well as two extra-large vestibules for easy access and gear storage. Interior headroom and floor space are increased by clever design elements, resulting in increased livability.

A single hubbed tent pole makes assembly extremely quick and simple, and black mesh doors become nearly transparent at night, allowing for clear stargazing through the night sky. Visit REI|NEMO to find out the most recent pricing.

Ultralight Backpacking Tent Selection Guide

In order to create trekking pole tents, the backpacking tent manufacturers utilize a variety of various materials and design elements in their products. Understanding the tradeoffs of the tent models you’re considering and how they might complement your travels is critical when purchasing for a tent.

Ultralight Tent Materials and Price Points

A wide range of different materials and pricing ranges are available for trekking pole tents, as well as a number of different sizes. In part due to the fact that it needs specific production procedures, Dyneema DCF is the lightest and most costly of all the composite materials available. Compared to Dyneema, Silpoly, Silnylon, and PU coated silnylon are significantly less expensive to manufacture since they can be sewed together using traditional techniques. They’re also around the same in terms of pricing as well.

Having said that, ultralight tent manufacturers are beginning to transition away from silnylon and toward silpoly since it has less flexibility and absorbs less water than silnylon.

• Despite the fact that tents manufactured of Dyneema DCF are quite pricey, they are also extremely lightweight, waterproof, and sturdy. Over the long run, they are more susceptible to damage from sunshine, although this is rarely a concern for the majority of individuals. Tents made of dyneema must be folded rather than filled when transported, although despite their light weight, they may still be quite substantial. Tents manufactured with siliconized polyester (silpoly) are a desirable alternative to tents made of Dyneema DCF because they do not stretch greatly when exposed to the elements, such as when they are exposed to rain. They’re also far less expensive, and some are already seam-taped, allowing you to use them right out of the box without the need for further seam sealing. Tents constructed of PU-coated silnylon are typically more waterproof than tents made of plain silnylon, but you should examine the waterproofing specifications of the two materials to be sure. The primary advantages of PU coating over standard silnylon are enhanced UV resistance and the ability to have the material seam-taped in the factory
• Tents made of silnylon are still popular since it is a simple material for manufacturers to create with. While silnylon does stretch at night and when fabric is wet, it is not nearly as noticeable as some people would have you believe it to be. Tents made of nylon must be manually seam-sealed before they may be utilized in wet weather conditions. While it is possible to do this yourself, my recommendation is to pay the manufacturer to do it for you so that you have a tent that is ready to use when it is delivered.

Single-wall vs Double-wall Tents

Single-wall and double-wall ultralight trekking tents with separate inner tents are available in a variety of sizes and configurations. When it comes to interior condensation, both single-wall and double-wall tents are susceptible. However, the advantage of a double-wall tent is that moisture gathers on the bottom of the rainfly rather than on a wall that is in direct touch with your sleeping bag, comforter, or other gear. Many double-wall tents include an inner tent and a rainfly that may be used independently of one another, for example as a freestanding tarp or as a bug bivy, which can significantly increase their utility.

It is recommended that you take a small absorbent face towel in case tent condensation becomes an issue for you during your camping trip.

Headroom

Many ultralight hiking tents are designed in a pyramid form, which might restrict the amount of headroom and foot room available under the sloping roof of these tents. It can be very uncomfortable to be lying on your back and looking at a ceiling that is only three inches away from your face. Always be sure to look at the length of the tents you’re thinking about purchasing, as well as the height of their peaks. A two-peak trekking pole tent, which requires two poles to set up, can provide more habitable area above the ground than a one-pole tent, which is advantageous when compared to a one-pole tent.

In this case, Tarptent’s usage of carbon fiber end struts to enhance the amount of space under their tents’ ceilings at the head and foot ends is the ideal illustration to illustrate the point.

The disadvantage of these end struts is that they might make it more difficult to store tents horizontally in a bag when they are not in use.

Vestibules

The use of vestibules is beneficial for storing equipment, particularly wet equipment, and for cooking under shelter when the weather is windy or rainy. The majority of one-pole tents feature a single vestibule, but the majority of two-pole tents have two. Two doors and two vestibules are required when purchasing a two-person tent so that each of you may have his or her own entry and gear storage place. When it comes to a one-person tent, having two entrances and two vestibules may be really handy, especially if you anticipate bad weather conditions where you may have to hunker down in your tent for a day or two.

Pole Length

When selecting a trekking pole tent, you should make certain that it is compatible with the brand and type of trekking poles that you prefer to use, if you have such a preference. It might be difficult to utilize fixed-length poles that are not adjustable with trekking pole tents since the height requirements for trekking pole tents are highly stringent. Additionally, if your trekking pole handles have a non-standard grip, you’ll want to make sure that they’re compatible with your trekking poles.

Check Out All of SectionHiker’s Gear Guides!

• 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes
• 10 Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents
• 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes Ten Best One-Person Backpacking Tents for the Money
• Best Backpacking Stoves
• 10 Best Backpacking Stoves
• The 10 Best Water Filters for Backpacking
• The 10 Best Ultralight Backpacks are listed below. Ten of the best sleeping bags for backpacking
• Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilts
• 10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilts
• Ten of the best lightweight backpacking chairs
• The 10 Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
• The 10 Best Rain Jackets for Backpacking
• Best budget backpacking tents under $250
• 10 Best Budget Backpacking Tents Under $250
• 10 Best Backpacks with Ventilation
• Ten of the best hiking daypacks
• Ten of the best hiking pants
• Ten of the best trekking poles

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: If you’re considering about purchasing gear that we’ve reviewed or recommended on SectionHiker, you may contribute to our fundraising efforts. We may (but not always) get a small portion of any sales made using the links provided above. Simply click on any of the vendor links provided above. Although the cost of the product remains the same for you, your purchase allows us to continue to test and create unsponsored and independent gear evaluations, beginning FAQs, and free hiking guides for you.

10 Best Two-Person Backpacking Tents of 2022

In inclement weather or on extended excursions, two-person backpacking tents may be used by couples or lone travelers who want a little bit extra space to keep their belongings inside the tent while still being warm and dry. When looking for two-person hiking tents, we recommend that you first determine your priorities and then buy accordingly. Do you require a tent with two entrances? Prefer to use a trekking pole tent or a freestanding tent pole construction, which one do you prefer? What kind of internal space do you require, and so forth?

While everyone’s objectives are different, we believe that these tents offer the finest mix of features and price currently available on the market.

Make / Model	Structural	Trail Weight
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2	Freestanding	2 lbs 11 oz / 1219g
MSR Hubba Hubba 2	Freestanding	2 lbs 10 oz / 1191g
Zpacks Duplex	Trekking Pole	1 lbs 3 oz / 539g
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2	Semi-Freestanding	2 lbs 3 oz / 992g
REI Flash 2	Trekking Pole	1 lbs 15 oz / 879g
MSR Freelite 2	Semi-Freestanding	2 lbs / 907g
Tarptent Double Rainbow	Semi-Freestanding	2 lbs 10 oz / 1191g
Dan Durston X-Mid 2	Trekking Pole	2 lbs 4 oz / 1025g
Slingfin Portal 2	Freestanding	2 lbs 14 oz / 1305g
NEMO DragonFly 2	Freestanding	2 lbs 9 oz / 1162

1. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2

A popular two-person backpacking tent, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is a popular choice for a good reason. This freestanding tent is simple to erect and has two doors, which allows you to enter and exit without having to crawl over your companion in the middle of the night. Inside, there is plenty of headroom and vertical sidewalls, which allow you to change clothes and sit upright without coming into contact with the walls. Awning-style vestibules increase the amount of covered living area available, which is beneficial for both rain and sun protection, while two-way door zippers allow you to vent warm air without compromising privacy.

The Copper Spur hiking palace weighs only 2 lbs 11 oz, making it one of the lightest and most complete backpacking palaces available. Read the SectionHiker Copper Spur HV UL2 Review for more information. Take a look at the most recent price at: REI|Amazon

2. MSR Hubba Hubba 2 Tent (Updated)

The MSR Hubba Hubba 2 is a fantastic two-person tent that has just been improved. It’s even lighter weight now, and it’s simple to put up. It now has two doors, so you may come and leave at any time of day or night without waking your companion. Independent of the ground, the pole structure produces an interior area with almost vertical walls and a genuinely rectangular floor plan, allowing for the use of large 25′′ sleeping mats on the floor. A trail weight of 2 pounds and 10 ounces makes the Hubba Hubba 2 a lightweight option for hiking when shared by two people.

Take a look at the SectionHiker review.

3. Zpacks.com Duplex Tent

The Zpacks Duplex is a single-wall trekking pole tent that weighs only 19.0 ounces and has a single-wall design. It offers enough room for one person and their belongings, but it can also accommodate two people comfortably. Due to the fact that it has two entrances, it provides excellent ventilation and vestibule area on both sides of the tent. The Duplex is equipped with a complete bathtub floor, seam taped seams, and mesh sidewalls to provide bug protection from the elements. Although two trekking poles are required to set up the tent, the twin apex construction is extremely sturdy and wind-resistant.

However, because it is translucent, it may impair your privacy if you are camping in close proximity to others.

Visit Zpacks for the most up-to-date pricing information.

4. Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 Tent

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 is a roomy double-wall tent weighing just 2 lbs 3 oz and featuring an easy-to-pitch hubbed pole design. Two big side doors and vestibules allow good access as well as enough of covered gear storage for the crew. A huge ceiling pocket as well as side pockets give lots of storage space, while mesh sides provide additional seclusion when needed. The Tiger Wall’s interior is smaller than the Copper Spur’s and composed of gossamer-thin fabric, making it the lightest 2-door, 2-vestibule wilderness tent from Big Agnes.

This two-person tent is an excellent choice if you are concerned about the weight of your gear or want to utilize a two-person tent for solo trekking.

Take a look at the most recent price at: REI|Amazon

5. REI Flash 2

The REI Flash Air 2 Tent is an ultralight two-person tent with two doors and two vestibules that weighs 1 pound 15 ounces when erected with trekking poles. It has two doors and two vestibules, and it is made of nylon (regular tent poles are also included). A single-wall tent with several ventilation options is used to keep condensation to a bare minimum. When it comes to its finest characteristics, the ability to quickly and easily move between an open, breezy set up for stargazing at night and a storm-proof setup while sitting comfortably inside the tent is one of its best advantages.

The basic setup is straightforward, making it a fantastic choice for beginners.

Travelers who wish to lessen their weight without breaking the money will find it to be a fantastic alternative as well. Read the SectionHiker REI Flash 2 Review for more information. Check out REI for the most up-to-date pricing information.

6. MSR Freelite 2 (Updated)

The MSR Freelite 2 is a 32 oz two-person tent with two entrances and two vestibules that has been updated for 2022. It retains the actual rectangular floor, which is 50 inches wide, and does not have a foot taper, as do most other two-person tents on the market. A unified hub-and-pole system, as well as a symmetrical design, allow for extremely rapid assembly. Cable connections for headphone and charging cords are located in the corners of the pockets on the inside, and the overhead gear loft pockets are ideal for storing goods such as headlamps, sunglasses, and other items that need to be reached quickly.

You may see the most up to date pricing at:MSR

7. Tarptent Double Rainbow Tent

Designed for two people, the Tarptent Double Rainbow is a single-wall tent that weighs 2 pounds, 10 ounces. It includes two side entrances as well as two huge vestibules for storing equipment. As a single item, the tent requires only a single tent pole, which is placed into a long sleeve that is sewed into the top of the tent to keep it from leaking. Trekking poles can also be used in place of tent pegs to spread out the tent corners and make the tent self-supporting, which is useful for setting up a tent on wooden platforms or rock ledges that are not level.

Roof vents also aid in the ventilation of moisture and the prevention of interior condensation.

Take a look at the SectionHiker Review.

8. Durston X-Mid-2

A roomy double-wall trekking pole tent for two people, the Durston Gear X-Mid 2 is set up with two trekking poles and is designed for use with trekking poles. The tent, which weighs 36 ounces, has two entrances and two vestibules and is designed in a way that makes it exceptionally weather- and storm-resistant. Designed with offset peaks to provide maximum headroom, the all-mesh inner tent also has four internal pockets for storing your belongings. However, the twin doors and vestibules are constructed such that they may be left open in the rain without causing splashback.

There is also a DCF variant that is extremely light.

9. SlingFin Portal 2

The Slingfin Portal is a two-person lightweight tent that may be used all year round in more adverse weather conditions (Slingfin was founded by Martin Zematis, the guy who started Mountain Hardware). It is lightweight, weighing only 2 lbs 13 oz, and has an innovative internal guyline system that provides excellent wind resistance without adding additional weight. In addition to two huge vestibules and several inside compartments, the dome-shaped exoskeleton makes it simple to set up, and its freestanding design makes it easy to transport.

Unrestricted cross-tent airflow provided by kickstand door vents results in efficient condensation control without sacrificing weather protection. Read the SectionHiker SlingFin Portal Review for more information. Check out SlingFin for the most up-to-date pricing information.

10. NEMO Dragonfly 2 Tent

With two entrances and two spacious vestibules, the NEMO DragonFly 2 is a lightweight, freestanding two-person tent that provides plenty of space for backpacks and wet hiking boots. Incorporating prebent tent poles to enhance head and shoulder space, its exoskeleton form allows you plenty of inside space for changing clothes or waiting out inclement weather. The huge D-shaped doors make it simple to enter and exit the tent, and they can also be folded back in hot weather to allow for more air circulation.

Read the SectionHiker DragonFly 2 Review for more information.

Tent Evaluation Criteria

When purchasing a backpacking or camping tent, the following are the most important factors to consider: 1.

Total Weight/Trail Weight

For a tent, the overall weight is typically the tent and its packing, while the trail weight is the weight of its poles, inner tent, outer rain fly, and tent stakes less any additional weight from additional gear. What is the reason for the difference? The majority of people change the tent stakes that come with a tent with lighter weight or stronger ones, and they leave all of the additional stuff sacks and packing at home rather than lugging it about with them on their camping trip.

Tent Poles

Tent poles can be composed of fiberglass, aluminum, or carbon fiber, among other materials. Aluminum is the most durable of the three materials, while carbon fiber is often reserved for ultra-high-end tents that place a premium on low weight and durability. Tent poles made of fiberglass are the least robust and break the most frequently. So much so that we strongly advise against purchasing any tent with fiberglass poles. All of the individuals listed above either have aluminum poles or utilize hiking poles.

Tents made of trekking poles are extremely durable and wind-resistant, provided that the trekking poles are in excellent working order.

Durability

The floor of a tent is the section of the tent that is most likely to be punctured or torn as a consequence of contact from the ground. While utilizing a footprint on floors that are 20 denier thick or less is always suggested, it is significantly less necessary on floors that are 30 denier thick or above, unless the floor is extremely abrasive or on rugged terrain, in which case it is essential.

Number of Doors

Tents with two side doors are frequently preferred when purchasing a tent for two people because they allow each tenant to enter and exit the tent without disturbing the other occupant.

One-person tents with two doors are also quite useful, especially in inclement weather, because you can cook under one vestibule while storing supplies under the other. One-person tents with three doors are also very convenient.

Interior Storage

When it comes to a multi-person tent, having inside pockets and storage organization is a bonus. Look for interior pockets and gear loops that may be used to suspend equipment from the ceiling. An extra plus is the presence of a gear loft. Vestibule space is generally beneficial, but it is more beneficial if there are many entrances to ensure that equipment storage does not obstruct access and leave.

Ventilation

The presence of tent condensation is inevitable in all tents; nevertheless, proper tent site selection and ventilation are the most effective techniques to avoid it. For the best ventilation, look for tents that have lots of mesh netting, top vents for releasing damp air, and door tie-backs for rolling up tent doors and keeping them open throughout the nighttime hours. Note from the editor: If you’re considering about purchasing gear that we’ve reviewed or recommended on SectionHiker, you can contribute to our fundraising efforts by doing so.

Simply click on any of the vendor links provided above.

Thank you for your assistance, and please know that we appreciate it!

Check Out All of SectionHiker’s Gear Guides!

• 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes
• 10 Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents
• 10 Best Hiking Boots and Trail Shoes Ten Best One-Person Backpacking Tents for the Money
• Best Backpacking Stoves
• 10 Best Backpacking Stoves
• The 10 Best Water Filters for Backpacking
• The 10 Best Ultralight Backpacks are listed below. Ten of the best sleeping bags for backpacking
• Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilts
• 10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Quilts
• Ten of the best lightweight backpacking chairs
• The 10 Best Sleeping Pads for Backpacking
• The 10 Best Rain Jackets for Backpacking
• Best budget backpacking tents under $250
• 10 Best Budget Backpacking Tents Under $250
• 10 Best Backpacks with Ventilation
• Ten of the best hiking daypacks
• Ten of the best hiking pants
• Ten of the best trekking poles

7 Best Backpacking Tents of 2021

Learn about our top selections for hiking tents, including three-season, winter, budget, and ultralight models. The hiking tent is a must-have. During any journey into the bush, your snug wilderness retreat will serve as a sanctuary from harsh weather and a constant friend for you. The fact that tents play so many important functions is no surprise; most hikers take great care in their tents, and you should as well! Your tent is the foundation of all of your youramazing backpacking adventures, but selecting the proper one may be a difficult decision.

We, on the other hand, are here to assist you!

Continue reading to learn about the most important factors to consider when purchasing a tent, as well as a review of the best backpacking tents available this year.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS

Finding the finest camping tent requires a little time and investigation. There are a number of factors to consider while making your decision, but don’t let that deter you! We’ve already identified the most significant factors to consider; now let’s take a closer look at each of them and see how they impact your tent selection.

WEIGHT

Let’s start with the most important consideration for any backpacker: controlling pack weight. Getting ready for a good backpacking trip necessitates a large amount of equipment, and your tent may add significantly to the amount of weight you must carry. However, reducing the weight of your tent comes with a number of drawbacks. While an ultralight tent will be lighter to carry and will allow you to move more quickly, it will sacrifice room, features, and, in some cases, durability in order to achieve this.

As a result, carefully assess your priorities and how vital it is to you to keep your pack weight as low as possible. In terms of weight, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall Ul is our top option if that is your primary concern.

Durability

There’s nothing quite as disappointing as a hiking tent with a split seam in the middle of a trip, or a zipper that has broken, or a pole that has cracked. These minor incidents have the ability to significantly detract from your trip, but a well-constructed tent will keep you safe and comfortable season after season. Denier-thick tent material (measured in Deniers), stronger poles, and more durable weatherproofing are common features of long-lasting tents. The downside is that these sturdy features sometimes increase the weight and expense of a tent, but they may be well worth it if you plan on hiking frequently.

SPACIOUSNESS

We all enjoy having plenty of space to stretch out in after a long day on the trail, but is it really worth it to carry a heavier tent that provides more internal space on the route? Consider how vital that extra room is to you, as well as whether you want to keep all of your gear and bag inside the tent with you or protected by a rainfly vestibule during your trip. In addition, if you want to go camping with a pet companion, or if you just require more space to sleep comfortably, you might consider purchasing an additional area.

The size of all 2-person tents is not the identical, and having a little additional space to move around in after a few days on the trail may be really advantageous.

COST

Backpacking equipment may be rather pricey. As a result, it’s understandable that while looking for the finest camping tent, affordability is likely to be the most important consideration. This is especially true if you’re going on your first backpacking trip or if you only go camping on a very rare basis. While a lower-cost tent is a fantastic option in these situations, keep in mind that you will be sacrificing quality and weight in exchange for a lower-cost tent. In the event that obtaining a budget-friendly hiking tent is your number one objective, The North Face Stormbreak 2 is our top choice.

3-SEASON OR 4-SEASON Tents

The majority of backpacking tents are three-season, meaning they are built for summer hiking trips as well as moderate spring or fall weather. The ideal option for winter excursions, however, is a 4-season tent, which preserves warmth while also being resistant to snow accumulation. The great majority of trekkers only require a three-season tent to cover the finest hiking seasons in the large majority of destinations across the world. But if you have winter adventures planned, the MSR Access 4-season backpack is our top suggestion.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent

MSRP:$449.95 SEASONS:3- Seasons are available. Tent with a capacity of two people (3P also available) MEASUREMENTS (inches): 88 x 52/42 (head and foot) x 40 inches (inches) WEIGHT IN PACKAGE: 3 lbs 2 oz SIZE IN PACKAGING: 19.5 x 6.0 inches PROS: Reasonably small and light in weight. –Large internal space –Easy installation –Well ventilated CONS: Less long-lasting than other alternatives –Expensive The Copper Spur hiking tent was created by Big Agnes by combining many of the most critical aspects of our most important backpacking tent concerns into a single unit.

Keep in mind, however, that the Copper Spur’s durability is a little below that of the competitors. GO TO BACKCOUNTRY.COM TO SEE MORE Visit REI.com to see more.

REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent

MSRP:$279.00 SEASONS:3-season CAPABILITIES: 2-PERSON TENTING The following are the dimensions (L x W x H): 90 x 54 x 42 inches WEIGHT IN PACKAGING: 4 lbs 11.5 oz SIZE IN PACKAGING: 7 x 20.5 inches PROS: It is quite roomy, with additional space for gear or a furry buddy – It has many of pockets. CONS: It is rather expensive. –Excellent headroom –Lighter than REI’s normal Half Dome 2+ backpack –Construction that is long-lasting Cons: It’s a little on the hefty side, and it tends to catch the wind easily.

The Half Dome 2 SL+ (SL stands for Superlight) has become significantly lighter than its predecessors while maintaining one of the most spacious and comfortable tent interiors available on the market.

CHECK IT OUT ON REI.COM

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2

MSRP:$449.95 SEASONS:3-season CAPABILITIES: 2-PERSON TENTING (also available in1-person) DIMENSIONS (L x W x H): 84 x 39 in. WEIGHT IN PACKAGE: 3 lbs 14 oz SIZE OF PACKAGE: 18 x 6 inches THE BENEFITS:Very sturdy and tough pole construction –Effective weatherproofing system –Easy to put up –Two doors for convenient access Cons: Expensive – Less headroom than other alternatives. The Hubba Hubba is a tent with the strength of an armored fighting vehicle. Although the Xtreme ShieldTM coating on MSR’s composite poles is said to be three times more durable than previous waterproof treatments, it is not known how long it will survive in the field.

Nonetheless, the MSR Hubba Hubba’s renowned durability may easily outweigh its weight, making it one of the best camping tents available.

BIG AGNES TIGER WALL UL Solution-Dyed

MSRP:$359.95 SEASONS:3-season CAPABILITIES:1-PERSON TENTING (2-person tent also available) The following are the measurements in inches: 86 x 38/28 (head/foot) x 39 inches. WEIGHT IN PACKAGE: 2 lbs 2 oz (minimum trail weight of 1lb 14oz) SIZE IN PACKAGING: 17 x 5.5 inches PROS: Lightweight – Plenty of vestibule area for gear storage – Simple to assemble – Excellent ventilation Cons: Semi-freestanding design – Limited space for storage UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: The Tiger Wall UL is an excellent choice for those who like to move quickly and light (ultralight).

The rainfly vestibule also gives a little amount of extra space for your backpack, which will most likely not fit inside the tent with you anyhow.

For those who have many miles ahead of them and who are concerned with decreasing their pack weight, the Tiger Wall Ultralight hiking tent may be the perfect choice for their needs. GO TO BACKCOUNTRY.COM TO SEE MORE Visit REI.com to see more.

MSR Access 1P Tent

MSRP:$499.95 SEASONS:4-season CAPABILITIES:1-PERSON TENTING LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) HIGHTH (inches) DIMENSIONS (inches) WEIGHT IN PACKAGE: 3 lbs 8 oz SIZE OF PACKAGE: 18 x 6 inches ADVANTAGES: Preserves warmth; sturdy framework; simple set-up for a four-season tent; manageable weight CONS: Not ideal for mountaineering in its purest form – Not as durable as comparable 4-season tents UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: You’re not prepared to let a little cold and snow get in the way of your plans?

If that describes you, then you should take a close look at the MSR Access 1.

Despite the fact that it is not nearly rugged enough for mountaineering, the MSR Access 1 thrives in its own woodland domain and is one of the best winter backpacking tents on the market today.

the North Face Stormbreak 2

MSRP:$159.00 SEASONS:3-season CAPABILITIES: 2-PERSON TENTING MEASUREMENTS (L x W x H): 87 x 50 x 43 inches WHEN PACKED, THE WEIGHT IS 5LB 14.2OZ SIZE OF THE PACKAGE: 22 x 7 inches Aspects that are advantageous include: –Ample headroom –Two doors DIMENSIONS: Heavily loaded – lower durability and quality UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: This tent is an excellent choice if you’re just getting started in hiking or need a simple tent for occasional excursions.

Even though it’s simple, with only a few functions and a mix of practical and heavy materials, it does the job at a fairly reasonable price.

GO TO BACKCOUNTRY.COM TO SEE MORE Visit REI.com to see more.

Sea to summit telos tr2

MSRP:$499.00 SEASONS:3-season CAPABILITIES: 2-PERSON TENTING 84.5 x 53/43 (head/foot) x 43.5 inches (length x width x height). WEIGHT IN PACKAGING: 3 lbs 10.7 oz SIZE IN PACKAGE: 18.9 x 5.1 inches PROS:New design geometry to optimize door size and internal area – Reasonable weight for a 2-person tent – Well-thought-out and durable construction CONS: Expensive – Brand new design that has not been tested over an extended period of time – a thin layer of flooring material UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: Sea to Summit made their foray into the field of hiking tents in 2021 with their outstanding Telos TR2, and they’ve already made a reputation for themselves thanks to the tent’s distinctive geometrical configuration.

A noticeable increase in headroom is provided by the upward curving poles on the side of the tent, which, along with the wider doors, makes it a roomy alternative that still maintains a respectable packing weight.

For now, though, we’ll have to observe how the Telos and subsequent Sea to Summit tents fare over time as a fresh new entry into the market. GO TO BACKCOUNTRY.COM TO SEE MORE Visit REI.com to see more.

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More Information About Backpacking Tents

When shopping for a camping tent, you’ll see that there are different weight categories to consider: packed weight, minimum trail weight, and maximum trail weight. We’ll dig right in and discover out precisely what the different numbers represent so you can figure out which backpacking tent is the best fit for you. Unfortunately, there is no mandated or even approved standard for establishing tent weights throughout the outdoor sector.

• Packed weight–Officially referred to as the “Packaged Weight,” this figure represents the overall weight of the tent’s components, as well as any extras that are included when the tent is purchased. In our Gear Guide, we have changed the word “Packed Weight” to “Packed Weight” since it is the most realistic way to estimate how much your tent will weigh when it is packed in your bag. Minimum trail weight–This specification is the most varied since – once again – there is no standard for determining the weight of a tent. Maximum trail weight–This specification is the most consistent. Manufacturers use a variety of methods to determine Minimum Trail Weight. For the most part, this computation takes into account merely the amount of water required to keep you dry. The tent body, the rainfly, and the poles are always included in the price. Frequently, this is all that is included. Items like as tent pegs, guy lines, and the footprint are often excluded from the price of a tent.

Doors and vestibules

Weight of the tent when packed–Officially known as the “Packaged Weight,” this figure represents the overall weight of the tent’s components, as well as any extras that are included when the tent is purchased. In our Gear Guide, we’ve changed the word “packed weight” to “packed weight” since it’s the most realistic way to estimate how much your tent will weigh while it’s packed in your bag. There is no standard way to measure tent weight, thus this specification is the most subjective. Minimum trail weight–Again, this specification is the most subjective because there is no standard way to measure tent weight.

In most cases, this computation is limited to only what is required to keep you moist while you are outdoors.

A lot of times, that’s all it has to offer.

What is a footprint and is it necessary?

A footprint is a lightweight tarp (made of a similar fabric to the rainfly) that is cut to the precise size of the floor of your tent to protect it from the elements. Footprints assist to protect the floor of your tent, allowing it to last longer. All of the hiking tents we suggest either come with footprints or have matching footprints that can be purchased separately from the manufacturer. Footprints are not required, and in fact, many trekkers choose not to leave any at all. We do not utilize them on the majority of our Wildland Trekking hiking trips.

Freestanding vs. Semi-Freestanding Tents

The majority of backpacking tents are classified as either freestanding or semi-freestanding, which is a common classification. The advantages and disadvantages of these two designs are largely a matter of personal preference, but let’s take a closer look at what each of these designs has to offer in order to help you make the best choice.

• Freestanding–These tents are equipped with a sturdy pole system that allows the tent to be entirely set up without the use of any pegs or other hardware. When you’re setting up your tent on varied terrain types, especially hard surfaces where anchoring is difficult, this style often allows a bit more flexibility than a traditional design. Semi-Freestanding Tents–In addition to the tent poles, pegs and guy lines are required to set up this sort of tent. This style of tent is best suited for outdoor use. This is the design used by many ultralight tents since decreasing the number of poles may also reduce the total weight of the tent.

Why Trust Us?

Choosing the appropriate outdoor equipment and clothing may be tricky. However, at Wildland Trekking, we use trekking equipment on a daily basis and live and work in it.

The correct equipment is critical to the success of our business, and we know better than anybody the importance of having the right tools for the job. In addition to our extensive understanding of backpacking equipment, we also provide the following services:

• Freedom from outside influence– our suggestions are not impacted by relationships or sponsorships with outdoor equipment and apparel makers. We have a lot of experience because we are one of the top guiding businesses in the United States, taking 8,000-10,000 people on hiking and backpacking excursions each year. As of 2005, we had escorted over 75,000 individuals into the woods
• Now, we have guided more than 80,000 people. Having cutting-edge knowledge is important to us, thus we often visit trade events and pay special attention to the forefront of new innovations. Regularly updated product suggestions– when new items are produced and released, we update our recommendations on a frequent basis. Respect for our Readers– We understand that the gear we select as our top picks will be used in the field by our readers, and we take our responsibility to them very seriously. We treat our readers as if they were guests on one of our guided tours, only they don’t have to deal with the guides. In order to ensure that you are as well-prepared and outfitted as possible for your excursions, we are dedicated to assisting you.

*Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means they benefit from sales. We receive a commission on any items purchased via these links at no additional cost to you. Any money raised will be used to support our blog and activities. The goods that we feature in our gear round-ups are not influenced by the affiliate links that we use. We only suggest things that we believe in wholeheartedly and those we have personally tested in the field.

Ultralight Backpacking Tents: How to Choose One

Written by Michael Lanza Switching from a regular camping tent to an ultralight backpacking tent will save you pounds on your overall pack weight, which is the most significant move many trekkers can take toward a smaller load. However, it can be tough to pick through the numerous ultralight tents available, and the specifications on them might appear to be a large pot of numerical soup, leaving you wondering: How are they different from one another? And, at the end of the day, which one is the best for you?

1. I formerly worked as the lead gear tester for Backpacker magazine for almost ten years, and I’ve been writing about tents for much longer.
2. This article will teach you all you need to know about choosing the ideal three-season, ultralight tent for your needs and preferences.
3. Please click here to subscribe to my FREE email newsletter.
4. My e-guides to classic backpacking excursions may be found by clicking here.
5. On the Ruby Crest Trail, there is a campground near Overland Lake.” data-image-caption=data-image-caption= “On the Ruby Crest Trail, there is a campground near Overland Lake.
6. On the Ruby Crest Trail, there is a campground near Overland Lake.

Size Matters

While it is understandable that consumers of backcountry gear are accustomed to focusing on the weight of a product—which is a good thing—they are not necessarily paying close attention to other performance indicators. Consider the weight of your tent in the same way you would consider the sentiments of a prospective partner about establishing a family: Although it is an important and possibly life-or-death aspect, it is not the only thing to consider when determining compatibility. Before purchasing an ultralight tent, be sure that low weight is a larger concern for you than living space, or you may be dissatisfied with its performance.

Big individuals who want to reduce their pack weight may find it beneficial to purchase a tent that is not the lightest, but is still quite light while allowing a little extra space (more on square footage below).

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While hiking the Teton Crest Trail, I came upon a Nemo Dragonfly 2P.” data-image-caption=data-image-caption= “On the Teton Crest Trail, we put the Nemo Dragonfly 2P through its paces. To see my review, simply click on the image.” data-medium-file=”ssl=1″ data-medium-file=”ssl=1″ data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”900″ height=”600″ src=” data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”900″ height=”600″” data:image/svg+xml, percent 3Csvg percent 20 alt=”The Nemo Dragonfly 2P on the Teton Crest Trail.” data-lazy-srcset=” ssl=1 1024w, ssl=1 300w, ssl=1 768w, ssl=1 1080w, ssl=1 1200w” data-lazy-srcset=” ssl=1 1024w, ssl=1 300w, ssl=1 768w, ssl=1 1080w, ssl= The data-lazy-sizes attribute is set to (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px.

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• To read my review, simply click on the image.
• Compared to regular tents, floorless tents and tarpaulins that are pitched using trekking poles are far lighter in weight and provide significantly more covered living space per ounce (or gram) of weight.
• Some have a single-wall construction, while others have a hybrid single- and double-wall design (see below), as well as optional mesh inserts for use in sweltering situations.
• When you’re not in an enclosed tent, you may wish to use a lightweight ground cover, and location selection and packing a warm enough bag become even more crucial considerations.
• Aside from that, if you want to downsize your pack and make it lighter and smaller in volume, you must first lower the weight of your two main pieces of equipment: your tent and sleeping bag.
• When it comes to losing weight, there are compromises.
• Once someone has made the move to one of these, they are unlikely to go back to hauling larger tents.

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The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness is a high-altitude UL2 route.” data-image-caption=”The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness.” data-image-caption=”The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness.” data-medium-file=”ssl=1″ data-medium-file=”ssl=1″ data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”900″ height=”600″ src=” data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”900″ height=”600″” data:image/svg+xml, percent 3Csvg, percent 20s High Uintas Wilderness.” data:image/svg+xml, percent 3Csvg, percent 20s High Uintas Wilderness.” data-lazy-srcset=” ssl=1 1024w, ssl=1 300w, ssl=1 768w, ssl=1 1080w, ssl=1 1200w” data-lazy-srcset=” ssl=1 1024w, ssl=1 300w, ssl=1 768w, ssl=1 1080w, ssl= The data-lazy-sizes attribute is set to (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px.

data-recalc-dims=”1″ The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is located in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness. data-lazy-src=” ssl=1″>The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is located in Utah’s High Uintas Wilderness. To read my review, simply click on the image.

How Light Should You Go?

What is an ultralight tent, and how does it work? There is no hard and fast rule, but I would consider any type of wilderness shelter that weighs less than three pounds in this category (1.4 kg). The threshold is arbitrary, but it encompasses a wide variety of items, ranging from freestanding, double-wall tents that are substantially lighter than classic types to shelters that weigh less than a pound. I’m not recommending that you disregard any tents weighing more than three pounds; there are two-person, three-season tents that weigh only a few ounces more than three pounds that are still worthwhile.

That will define the design elements you choose, which (together with your budget) will have a significant impact on the weight of the shelter you ultimately select.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is one of my picks for “ The 8 (Very) Best Backpacking Tents.”

The weight of any sort of shelter (or any piece of equipment) is mostly determined by the type and amount of materials that are used to construct it—a seemingly simple truth, but one that has implications for everything from interior space to cost. The following are examples of noticeable differences: Interior and vestibule space are included. There are one or two doors. Whether the structure is freestanding or requires staking. Double- or single-wall construction. It doesn’t matter if it has specific tent poles or if it uses trekking poles to make its pitches.

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The Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp in the wilderness of Yosemite National Park. To see my review, simply click on the image.” data-medium-file=” ssl=1″ data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”640″ height=”425″ src=” data-large-file=” ssl=1″ width=”640″ height=”425″ src=”” data:image/svg+xml, percent 3Csvg, percent 20 alt=”The Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp in the Yosemite backcountry.” The data-lazy-srcset is set to ” ssl=1 640w, ssl=1 300w, ssl=1 200w” and the data-lazy-cache is set to ” The data-lazy-sizes attribute is set to (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px.

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To read my review, simply click on the image.

Freestanding or Not?

Tarps and certain tents may be set up using your trekking poles, which eliminates the need to carry the heavy and bulky tent poles that would otherwise be required. These models can take a bit more time and effort to get right, so it’s best to practice in your yard rather than in the middle of a thunderstorm in the wilderness when you’re just learning to pitch. However, you will rapidly become acquainted with the peculiarities of a particular one. The poles of tents are one of the single largest weight savings opportunities available, which is why these non-traditional shelters are the preferred option for dedicated ultralighters.

Furthermore, the name “freestanding” is a bit of a misnomer since, while such tents do stand on their own without the use of stakes, they almost always need to be staked out, including their rainfly, in order to guarantee that they remain put in the wind and breathe properly.

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Browse through all of my evaluations on ultralight hiking tents and ultralight backpacking gear. You can also check out my “5 Expert Tips For Buying a Backpacking Tent” and my recommendations for the finest ultralight backpacks. NOTE: I worked as a gear tester for Backpacker Magazine for almost two decades. At The Big Outside, I only evaluate outdoor gear and equipment that I believe to be the best available. Check out myGear Reviews page on The Big Outside for a sorted menu with all of my reviews and professional purchase recommendations.

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