Whether you’re gearing up for a multi-week thru hike or trying to keep things within your budget, here are our top recommendations for backpacking tents.
We’ve spent countless nights in all sorts of weather conditions, from scorching desert heat to freezing winter nights at crazy high altitudes. And guess what? This has helped us find our what to look for in our search for the best backpacking tents.
Sometimes you just need a lightweight bug shield to keep those pesky critters away while you doze on a summer night. Other times, you want a sturdy fortress that can handle hurricane-level winds and heavy snowfall. Maybe you just want something right in the middle
Now, here’s what we looked at when we were putting these tents to the test: how easy they were to set up, the quality of materials, how much they weighed and how small they packed down, how much room you had inside, how well they held up against Mother Nature’s tantrums, and of course, the bang you get for your buck.
We placed the most emphasis on packed weight and floor space so a lot of extra features took a back seat in our ratings.
Quick Look
Best Overall Backpacking Tent: Zpacks Duplex
Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2
Best Value Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Gossamer Gear The Two
Best Minimalist Backpacking Tent: Zpacks 8.5’x10’ Tarp
Best Budget Backpacking Tent: Marmot Catalyst 2P Tent
Best Overall Backpacking Tent
Specs
MSRP: $669
Weight: 1 lb 2.5 oz
Height: 48 in.
Floor space: 28.1 sq. ft.
Materials: Dyneema
Pros
- Light
- Size
- Excellent storage and vestibule design
Cons
- Expensive
- Struggles in high winds (above 40 mph)
- Setup
The ZPacks Duplex Tent comes with a hefty price tag, but it’s a worthwhile investment for avid backpackers who prioritize lightweight gear. Designed for 1-2 people, the tent features two doors, two vestibules, and a high middle ceiling, providing comfort and convenience. Weighing a mere 21 ounces, this fully-enclosed, waterproof two-person tent is incredibly lightweight, thanks to its Cuben Fiber material, which offers superior performance compared to common tent fabrics like Silnylon.
While the Duplex excels in weight savings and waterproofness, it has a few downsides. Interior condensation can be an issue during cold and wet nights, and the tent’s non-freestanding design requires practice to set up correctly. However, for serious backpackers and thru-hikers seeking ultralight solutions, the Duplex’s tradeoffs may be well worth the benefits it offers in terms of weight and performance.
The ZPacks Duplex Tent comes with a hefty price tag, but it’s a worthwhile investment for avid backpackers who prioritize lightweight gear. Designed for 1-2 people, the tent features two doors, two vestibules, and a high middle ceiling, providing comfort and convenience. Weighing a mere 21 ounces, this fully-enclosed, waterproof two-person tent is incredibly lightweight, thanks to its Cuben Fiber material, which offers superior performance compared to common tent fabrics like Silnylon.
Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Specs
MSRP: $699
Weight: 1 lb 2. oz
Height: 64 in.
Floor space: 50 sq. ft.
Materials: Dyneema
Pros
- Ultralight
- Strong
Cons
- Very Expensive
- Trekking poles aren’t for everyone
- Need a lot of space to set up guylines
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2 is undeniably impressive, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Priced at $699, and an additional $395 if you opt for the bug-repellent mesh insert, this model is definitely an investment. However, for serious hikers and backpackers, the UltaMid 2 is undoubtedly one of the best options available.
Constructed with incredibly durable Dyneema fabric, this tent can withstand significant abuse while remaining exceptionally lightweight. Weighing in at just 1.19 pounds for the main tent body, and 1.3 pounds with the mesh insert, it offers a generous floor area of over 50 square feet, providing ample space for two hikers and their gear. You should note the mesh insert is sold separately.
The main drawbacks are the high price and the requirement for trekking poles, as well as the need for sufficient space to secure the guy lines since it is not freestanding. Despite these considerations, the UltaMid 2 is a top-tier tent that promises exceptional longevity. Our testers have even dubbed it a “wonder of engineering.” If you’re in the market for an ultralight tent that will serve you for many seasons to come, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2 is certainly worth your consideration.
Best Minimalist Backpacking Tent
Specs
MSRP: $299
Weight: 5.1 oz without guylines
Materials: Custom 10d nylon ripstop
Pros
- Crazy Ultralight
- Affordable
- Versatile
Cons
- Durability
- Guylines not included
- No bug netting
If your priority is finding an ultra-lightweight shelter without compromising on space, then look no further than the ZPacks 7×9 Flat Tarp. This rectangular tarp offers an incredibly lightweight solution, packs down compactly, and provides ample room for a solo hiker.
What’s more, it comes at a relatively affordable price compared to other tarps in its weight category.With a mere weight of 5.1 oz., this tarp is incredibly lightweight. It’s less than half the weight of our preferred ultralight single-person tents, such as the ZPacks Plex Solo (13.9 oz.).
If you’re willing to accommodate a snugger setup, this tarp can even accommodate two people, saving a whopping 13 oz. compared to the popular ZPacks Duplex, while providing a similar floor space.
Flat tarps offer remarkable versatility due to their adaptable shape, allowing for a wide range of configurations. From A-frame setups to half pyramids and lean-tos, the options are practically limitless.
By becoming proficient in multiple pitching techniques, one can effectively ensure a dry and comfortable shelter beneath the tarp, capable of providing protection in diverse weather conditions.
For backpackers striving to achieve a sub-10-pound base weight, the ZPacks 7×9 Flat Tarp is a fantastic option that significantly contributes to this goal. When compared to other similar tarps, it offers exceptional value, while its flat design adds unparalleled versatility. If you’re seeking the ideal combination of low weight and ample space in a single-person tarp, the ZPacks Flat Tarp stands as an unrivaled choice.
Best Value Backpacking Tent
Specs
MSRP: $375
Weight: 23.5 oz
Materials: Custom 10d nylon ripstop SIL/PU Fabric
Pros
- Spacious
- Ultralight
- Affordable
Cons
- Awkward Internal Mesh Pockets
- Ventilation could be better
When it comes to lightweight, spacious, and highly durable single-wall shelters for two backpackers, few options can match the value offered by Gossamer Gear’s The Two ($375). This no-frills, ultralight tent is simple, affordable, and incredibly easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for weight-conscious couples looking to streamline their gear.
Weighing a mere 23.5 ounces and packing down to a size just slightly larger than a Nalgene bottle, The Two can be easily carried by a single hiker, or the weight can be shared by having one person carry the tent stakes while using trekking poles as the tent’s support. With its weatherproof design, this shelter provides a reliable escape from the elements, proving its worth for serious backpackers seeking long-lasting performance.
Priced at $375, The Two is one of the most budget-friendly options among thoroughly tested ultralight shelters, favored by countless thru-hikers and weekend warriors alike (often alongside its smaller sibling, The One). Comparatively, similar single-wall, trekking pole-style tents like the Zpacks Duplex can cost around $700, offer less compact packing, and may not match the same level of durability based on our experiences.
Constructed with a lightweight nylon and SilNylon combination, The Two balances weight reduction with strength and durability. This fully waterproof material excels at repelling rain, and its catenary cut facilitates effective drainage to prevent water buildup.
Step inside The Two, and you’ll feel like royalty. With ample headroom and a spacious bathtub floor, it comfortably accommodates two tapered 25-inch-wide sleeping pads. The generously-sized double vestibules provide additional living space and can even serve as cooking areas during inclement weather. Our 6’2″ tester could easily sit up without hitting their head and stretch out fully without touching the tent’s top or bottom.
While The Two offers excellent ventilation, condensation can build up noticeably. However, you can minimize this issue by fully opening the vestibules on either side, provided the weather permits. The tent includes two internal mesh pockets for storage, though their placement in the middle can make access slightly awkward when lying down.
Setting aside these minor grievances, The Two stands as one of the best options for ultralight backpacking with a partner. Whether you’re planning a 6-month thru-hike or sporadic trips to remote alpine lakes, this tent will keep you comfortable and dry without weighing you down.
Best Budget Backpacking Tent
Specs
MSRP: $375
Weight: 23.5 oz
Materials: Custom 10d nylon ripstop SIL/PU Fabric
Pros
- Great value
- Spacious
- Easy setup with color-coded poles
Cons
- Heavier than other backpacking tents
- Bulky when packed
- Different pole lengths
Priced at $229, the Marmot Catalyst 2P Tent offers exceptional value for those seeking a reliable backpacking tent that can also serve as a car camping option, all while keeping the budget intact.
With a minimum trail weight of 4 pounds, 11 ounces, it leans towards the heavier side, but fear not, as it still gets the job done and packs down compactly enough to comfortably fit into a backpack. In terms of space, it generously provides 32.5 square feet of floor area.
One standout feature we adore is the color-coded poles, which make setup a breeze, even for novice campers. Additionally, the tent boasts two D-shaped doors with vestibules, offering ample room for storing gear.
The main downsides to this tent are its weight and bulkiness. It’s worth mentioning that the varying lengths of the poles can cause some confusion if you’re in a hurry. However, practicing the setup in advance (which we always recommend) can significantly reduce the setup time.
When packed, the Catalyst measures 21 by 7.5 inches and weighs a total of 5 pounds, 3 ounces. This weight may be considered relatively heavy for a two-person tent, and carrying it up a steep incline can be quite the task.
Nevertheless, for novice hikers venturing into the world of backpacking, the Marmot Catalyst 2P Tent is an excellent starting point. Divide the tent components between you and your hiking partner, and set off on your explorations. Those uncertain about the extent of their future backpacking endeavors are unlikely to experience buyer’s remorse, making this tent one of the best options available in terms of affordability and performance.
