The Best Backpacking Tents to Take on Your Next Adventure
As the days grow longer and warmer, many outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for their next hiking adventure. One essential piece of equipment for any overnight trek is a reliable hiking tent. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a novice camper, choosing the right tent can make or break your outdoor experience.
In this roundup, we’ll explore some of the best hiking tents on the market, covering a range of budgets, sizes, and features. We’ve got you covered from ultralight options for solo hikers to spacious shelters for small groups.
Our selection criteria include:
- Weight and packability
- Durability and weather resistance
- Ease of setup
- Interior space and comfort
- Value for money
We’ll be looking at tents from renowned brands such as Big Agnes, MSR, REI, and Nemo, as well as some lesser-known but highly-rated manufacturers. Each tent in our roundup has been thoroughly tested in various conditions to ensure it meets the needs of hikers and backpackers.
Some key features we’ll be discussing include:
- Freestanding vs. non-freestanding designs
- Single-wall vs. double-wall construction
- Vestibule space for gear storage
- Ventilation and condensation management
- Season ratings (3-season vs. 4-season)
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway in the nearby state park or a week-long expedition in the backcountry, finding the right tent is crucial. Our comprehensive roundup will help you navigate the vast array of options and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Best 1 Person Tent
Clostnature Crux Lightweight Tent for Backpacking
The Clostnature Crux Lightweight Tent for Backpacking is a reliable outdoor companion for hikers and backpackers seeking shelter in the wilderness. This 1/2 person tent is designed with ultralight materials, making it perfect for those prioritizing mobility and weight reduction. The tent’s waterproof feature ensures that adventurers stay dry even during unexpected rain showers, while its easy setup mechanism saves time and effort. With its durability and practicality, the Clostnature Crux Lightweight Tent is an essential addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s gear collection.
Great ventilation
Waterproof
Lightweight and packable for backpacking
Incredibly lightweight
Waterproof and strong for the price
Tapered shape
Cramped with two people
Brand: Clostnature
Water Resistance: 5000
Weight: 1.7 Kilograms
Number of Doors: 2
Closure Type: Hook and Loop
Fabric: Polyester
Occupancy: 1 Person
Hand Wash: Yes
Best 1-person backpacking tent
Featherstone Ultralight Backpacking Tent
The Featherstone Backpacking Tent is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and durable tent. This 3-season tent is perfect for camping, hiking, and biking trips. The tent is lightweight and freestanding, making it easy to set up and pack away. Including a footprint and mesh gear loft adds to its versatility, allowing campers to stay organized and protected from the elements. The ultralight fly-footprint capability is another standout feature, providing extra protection against rain and moisture. The Featherstone Backpacking Tent is a great investment for those seeking a reliable and functional tent for their outdoor escapades.
Lightweight and durable materials
Ultralight-friendly with included footprint
Includes footprint and loft
Easy assembly with color-coded clips
Comes with a footprint to protect the tent from rocks, twigs, and dirt
Tight for two
Only one door with small vestibule
Setup type: Easy
Weight: 3.9 Pounds
Occupancy: 1 Person
Water resistance: 5000 mm
Color: OBSIDIAN
Design: Camping Tent
Brand: Featherstone
Usage: 3 Season
GEERTOP Cold Weather Tent
The GEERTOP Ultralight 2 Person Backpacking Tent is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and reliable tent for their outdoor adventures. With its waterproof design and double layer construction, this tent can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Setting up the tent is a breeze, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who values convenience. Whether camping with your family, hiking with friends, or embarking on a mountaineering expedition, this tent will meet your needs. Overall, the GEERTOP Ultralight 2-Person Backpacking Tent is a great investment for outdoor enthusiasts looking for comfort and durability.
Lightweight and compact
Ultralight, compact and easy to carry
Allows for 4-season camping at a reasonable price
Tent features a double-layer design, letting you remove the rainfly for better summer ventilation
Well-made rainfly
Vestibules are a bit small
Some users report faulty zippers
Brand: GEERTOP
Size: 82.6″L x 55″W x 45″H
Water Resistance: 3000 Mm
Set up: Easy
Material: Polyester, Nylon
Weight: 2.59 Kilograms
Doors: 1
MC TOMOUNT 2-Person Backpacking Tent
The MC TOMOUNT Backpacking Tent is a fantastic choice for outdoor adventurers needing a reliable and lightweight shelter. This tent, designed for one to two people, delivers on both functionality and durability. The double-layer construction ensures excellent waterproof capabilities, providing peace of mind during unexpected rain showers. The free-standing aluminum poles are sturdy and easy to set up, making this tent ideal for camping or hiking trips. Moreover, its four-season design guarantees comfortable use all year round. Whether you are a solo explorer or embarking on a romantic getaway, the MC TOMOUNT tent is a top-notch choice for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Lightweight, durable aluminum poles
Comes with a gear loft and footprint
Economical
Double-layer design for warmth and windproof
2 doors for easy access
Tight interior space
Vestibule is really small
Material: Aluminum, Oxford Fabric, Polyester
Size: 13.4″L x 31.5″W x 13.4″H
Waterproof rating: 3000 MPa
Recommended Usage: Backpacking
Person Capacity: 1-2
Season: 4
Best Budget Backpacking Tent
Forceatt Waterproof Camping Tent
The Forceatt Tent for 2 and 3 Person is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable shelter. This tent boasts impressive features such as waterproof and windproof, making it suitable for camping in various weather conditions. This tent can handle it all whether it’s spring, summer, autumn, or even mild winter camping.
One standout feature of the Forceatt Tent is its lightweight aluminum pole construction. This not only provides durability but also allows for quick and easy setup. Hikers will appreciate how easily they can assemble this tent on their journeys. Additionally, the tent’s compact size makes it perfect for backpacking adventures.
The Forceatt Tent for 2 and 3 Person is a versatile and high-quality camping tent. Its ability to withstand challenging weather conditions, lightweight design, and quick setup make it an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
Quality poles and a lightweight build
Can be set up quickly and easily
Aluminum poles offer durability
High-quality materials
Nice ventilation options
Rainfly doesn’t add much coverage
Rainfly doesn’t extend to cover the frame
Material
Polyester, Aluminum, fabric
Waterproof
Yes
Model name
Forceatt
Package size (L x W x H)
16.61 x 8.5 x 6.38 inches
Size
225″L x 135″W x 110″H
Weight
2.5 Kilograms
Windproof
Yes
Best budget backpacking tent
MC TOMOUNT Backpacking Tent
The MC TOMOUNT Backpacking Tent is a reliable and high-quality tent suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. With its double-layer construction and waterproof capabilities, this tent ensures a comfortable and dry experience even in harsh weather conditions. The lightweight design and free-standing aluminum poles make it easy to set up and pack away, perfect for camping and hiking trips. Whether you’re going on a summer adventure or exploring in the colder months, this 4-season tent is a versatile choice. Overall, the MC TOMOUNT Backpacking Tent is a great purchase for anyone in need of a durable and practical tent for outdoor activities.
Easy and quick setup
Two doors and vestibules for easy access and gear storage
Reasonably lightweight for a 4-season tent
Freestanding design
Great ventilation
Tall people may have trouble getting comfortable
Lower height makes it difficult to sit upright
Type: Dome
Occupation: 1 person
Water Resistance: 3000 Megapascals
Floor Area: 3490 Square Inch
Item Weight: 4.7 Pounds
Brand: MC
Material: Aluminum,Oxford Fabric,Polyester
Washing: Hand Wash
Usage: Camping, Hiking
Naturehike Camping Tent
The Naturehike Camping Tent is a fantastic option for outdoor enthusiasts. With its instant easy setup, it takes no time to set up and start enjoying the great outdoors. The double layer design provides extra insulation and protection from the elements. The tent is also waterproof with a PU2000mm rating, ensuring that you stay dry even during heavy rains. It also boasts an impressive 54 MPH wind resistance, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. The UPF 50+ rating ensures that you stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Whether you’re going camping, attending festivals, or having sleepovers in the backyard, this tent is a great choice. The Naturehike Camping Tent is a reliable and durable option that provides excellent comfort and protection.
Waterproof: Yes (PU2000mm)
Floor size: 83″L x 53″W
Feature: Rainproof
Material: Nylon
Weight: 4.7 Pounds
Recommended number of persons: 2
Wind resistance: 54 MPH
Washing: Hand wash
