Are you looking for a reliable, powerful, and lightweight tent for a hiking trip? It can be difficult to choose the best backpacking tent with numerous choices available. Our top backpacking tent picks and reviews help you make a smart choice.
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Considerations for Choosing a Backpacking Tent
There are various things to take into account while choosing a hiking tent. Weight comes first and foremost. Since you’ll be carrying your tent on your back for extended distances, a lightweight one is necessary for backpacking. Along with the tent’s livability factors like size, ventilation, and storage possibilities, you should also consider the tent’s longevity and resistance to the elements. Last but not least, make sure the tent is within your price range.
Our Top Picks for the Best Backpacking Tents
Our top recommendations for the finest hiking tents have been narrowed down after extensive research and testing of several models.
| VPN Service | Main Features | Our Score | |
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Top pick  |
Nemo Dagger Ultralight Backpacking Tents
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Top pick  |
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Tent
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Top pick  |
NEMO Hornet Elite Tent
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Top pick  |
MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent
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Top pick  |
MSR Elixir 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
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Top pick  |
The North Face Stormbreak 2 Backpacking Tent
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Top pick  |
Alps Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent
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Top pick  |
Marmot Tungsten UL Backpacking Tent
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Top pick  |
Coleman Sundome Tent
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Top pick  |
Eureka! Midori 2-Person Backpacking Tent
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Nemo Dagger 2P Ultralight Backpacking Tent (Top Pick)
- High-performance, proprietary OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric has 4X longer water…
- Two large doors and massive trapezoidal vestibules lead the category for usable volume.
- DAC Featherlite NSL pole structure.
- Color-coded, hubbed pole set with color-matched webbing on the tent makes setup intuitive.
- 100% Repreve pole bag replaces disposable packaging as part of our 100K Polybag…
The Nemo Dagger 2P Ultralight Backpacking Tent is an excellent alternative for outdoor enthusiasts who value lightweight gear. This tent only weighs about 3 pounds, making it ideal for lengthy hiking journeys. It has a big space, spanning 90 x 50 inches, with enough area for two people to sleep comfortably. Thanks to its simple pole design, setup is quick and easy. Furthermore, the tent has two entrances and two vestibules for easy access and additional storage space for goods.
- Pros:
- The ultralightweight design makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips.
- A spacious interior ensures comfortable sleeping arrangements for two people.
- Easy setup saves time and effort.
- Dual doors and vestibules offer convenient access and storage options.
- Cons:
- The Nemo Dagger 2P is relatively expensive compared to other tents in its category.
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Tent
- FULLY REDESIGNED – One of our best-selling, full-featured, ultralight backpacking tents,…
- AWARD-WINNING COMFORT – New awning-style vestibules expand covered living space; great for…
- STORAGE AND MORE – New 3-D bin ‘mezzanine’ in the foot provides massive, off the floor…
- A BETTER SHELTER – New proprietary tent corner construction with unique TipLok Tent Buckle…
- ULTRALIGHT STRENGTH – New proprietary ultralight nylon double rip-stop; mixed denier…
Another excellent choice for hikers is the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. This tent is incredibly light and portable, weighing only approximately 3 pounds. It also boasts a unique hub system that makes it easier and faster to put up the tent. The Copper Spur HV UL2 is a dependable alternative for backpacking in any weather because it is made with premium materials and is exceptionally weather-resistant.
- Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and portable (approximately 3 pounds).
- Unique hub system for easy and fast setup.
- Made with premium materials and highly weather-resistant.
- Cons:
- Limited capacity (two persons only).
NEMO Hornet Elite Tent
- High-performance, proprietary OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric has 4X longer water…
- Generous doors and vestibules for each person with Gatekeeper door tie backs provide more…
- New Divvy Cube rectangular stuff sack allows you to still split the weight with your…
- Patent-pending Flybar volumizing pole clip adds more room at the head and distributes fly…
- Triangulated volumizing guyouts at corners increase volume at the foot, protecting…
Backpackers like the NEMO Hornet Elite for its lightweight construction and superior ventilation. This tent is lightweight and easy to transport, as it only weighs 2 pounds. It is an excellent option in every situation. The Hornet Elite is quite comfortable and has enough room for two persons and their belongings.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to transport (2 pounds).
- Superior ventilation for added comfort.
- Enough room for two persons and their belongings.
- Cons:
- Limited capacity (two persons only).
MSR Hubba Hubba NX Tent
- 3-season, 2-person backpacking tent that offers the most livable accommodations in a…
- Pole geometry maximizes space with 29 sq. feet of floor area, interior peak height of 39…
- Complete setup weighs 3. 9 lbs. and packs down to 18×6 inches; minimalist setup option…
- Includes DuraShield Coating and DAC Featherlike NFL poles
- Includes tent, one unified hub-and-pole system, rainfly, stakes, and guy lines; footprint…
Among backpackers, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX tent is well-known and respected. This tent is a little heavier than some of the other alternatives on our list(under 4 pounds). However, it is still an excellent choice for backpacking. because it is made of high-quality materials with incredibly weather resistant. It is a wonderful choice for trekking in any weather. The Hubba Hubba NX is very practical and offers enough room for two persons and their belongings. Additionally, it has a special pole design that increases headroom and living space, making it a cozy choice for protracted hiking journeys.
- Pros:
- High-quality materials and extremely weather-resistant.
- Special pole design increases headroom and living space.
- Enough room for two persons and their belongings.
- Cons:
- Slightly heavier than other options (under 4 pounds).
MSR Elixir 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
- Unique pole geometry maximizes space and provides 40 in (102 cm) of headroom
- Tent body mesh and solid fabric panels provide the best combination of ventilation,…
- Tent can be set up with just the rainfly and included footprint, providing a fast and…
- Freestanding system features color coded poles, clips, webbing, and vestibules for fast…
- Supremely livable design includes large vestibules, built-in gear lofts, and glow-in the…
The MSR Elixir 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is a reliable choice for backpackers seeking durability and versatility. This tent strikes a balance between weight and functionality, making it suitable for a wide range of outdoor adventures. With durable construction, it offers enhanced longevity. The tent includes a gear loft and footprint, providing added convenience and protection. It also offers good ventilation, ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry, suitable for backpacking trips.
- Durable construction enhances longevity.
- Includes a gear loft and footprint for added convenience and protection.
- Provides good ventilation for a comfortable sleeping experience.
- Cons:
- Slightly heavier compared to some ultralight options.
The North Face Stormbreak 2 Backpacking Tent
- QUICK PITCH. The Stormbreak 2 is our classic two-person camping tent. Featuring large…
- COMFORTABLE DESIGN. Easy to get in and out, this tent features two doors and two twin-zip,…
- EASY ACCESS. Doors stuff into the adjacent mesh pockets so you don’t have to roll them up…
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION. A fully seam-taped canopy and floor help enhance durability and…
- TECH SPECS. Total Weight: 5 lbs 14.2 oz; Trail Weight: 5 lbs 5oz; Fastpack Weight: 3 lbs…
The North Face Stormbreak 2 Backpacking Tent is an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It is easy to set up, making it suitable for beginners and experienced campers alike. The tent offers good weather resistance, providing reliable protection during outdoor adventures. With two doors, it offers convenient access for two occupants.
- Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Easy to set up.
- Good weather resistance for reliable protection.
- Two doors for convenient access.
- Cons:
- Relatively heavier compared to ultralight options.
- Limited interior space for two people.
Alps Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent
- Great backpacking tent
The Alps Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent is a lightweight and compact option designed for solo camping. It features color-coded poles, making the setup process quick and straightforward. The tent offers good ventilation and weather resistance, ensuring a comfortable and protected camping experience.
- Pros:
- Lightweight and compact design, suitable for solo camping.
- Easy setup with color-coded poles.
- Good ventilation and weather resistance.
- Cons:
- Suitable for solo camping only.
- Limited interior space.
Marmot Tungsten UL Backpacking Tent
- Ultra-light one-person igloo tent, large D-shaped entrance with two apses for equipment;…
- Well thought-out, spacious hiking tent thanks to a specially pre-bent pole in the lower…
- Highly water-repellent outdoor tent (1,500 water column) with completely band-welded seams…
- Very light and rugged 3/DAC Press-Fit 9 mm pole with colour-coding for simply pitching of…
- Backpacking tent, measurements 214 x 74 x 97 cm; pack size: 46 x 16 cm; weight: 1.33 kg;…
The Marmot Tungsten UL 2P Backpacking Tent is an excellent choice for backpackers seeking an ultralightweight option without compromising on space and durability. It offers a spacious interior for two people and is made with durable materials. The tent is easy to set up and provides reliable protection during outdoor adventures.
- Pros:
- Ultralightweight construction for easy portability.
- Spacious interior for two people.
- Durable materials enhance longevity.
- Easy setup process.
- Cons:
- Higher price compared to some other options.
Coleman Sundome Tent
- Dome tent with a sturdy frame that withstands 35+ mph winds
- Easy setup in only 10 minutes. Good for backpacking
- Weathertec system with patented welded floors and inverted seams to keep you dry
- Large windows and a ground vent for superior ventilation
- Measures 7 x 5 feet with 4-foot center height
The Coleman Sundome Tent is a budget-friendly option suitable for casual camping trips. It is easy to set up and offers good weather resistance. With a spacious interior, measuring around 84 x 84 inches, the Coleman Sundome Tent provides ample room for campers and their gear. It features a dome design that allows for comfortable standing and moving around inside the tent.
- Pros:
- The affordable price makes it accessible for budget-conscious campers.
- The easy setup process saves time and effort.
- Good weather resistance ensures protection during various conditions.
- The spacious interior provides ample room for campers and gear.
- The dome design allows for comfortable standing and movement inside the tent.
- Cons:
- Relatively heavier and bulkier compared to ultralight options.
- May not be suitable for extreme weather conditions.
Eureka! Midori 2-Person Backpacking Tent
- The lightweight Eureka! Midori 1 solo, three season, 1 person backpacking tent is spacious…
- Designed with increased headroom to maximize livable space for comfortable trips on the…
- The three-season Midori includes one large side-opening door in the tent for easy access…
- High/Low Vent – Air Exchange System offers adjustable ventilation options for all weather…
- Outlast any storm with the strong and rugged 7000 Series aluminum frame and durable…
If you are looking for a lightweight tent, the Eureka! Midori 2-Person Backpacking Tent is a great option. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry for outdoor travel. The Midori tent is simple to set up and disassemble. It provides enough weather protection and has two doors for easy access.
- Pros:
- Lightweight design ensures easy portability.
- Quick and user-friendly setup process.
- Provides good weather protection.
- Two doors allow for convenient access.
- Cons:
- Relatively smaller vestibule space for gear storage.
- May not be suitable for taller individuals.
More: Best budget backpacking tent
More: The Best Cheap Backpacking Tent: Complete Buying Guide And Reviews
How We Tested
We tested each tent under numerous situations, such as wind, rain, and high temperatures to come up with our best ratings and suggestions. We also considered each tent’s weight, build quality, weatherproofing, use, and cost. We evaluated each tent’s general functionality as well as its suitability for hiking trips.
Guide to Buying: When Buying a Backpacking Tent
When selecting a hiking tent, there are many things to take into consideration. Weight comes first and is important. Since you’ll be carrying your tent on your back for extended distances, a lightweight one is necessary for backpacking. Along with the tent’s livability factors like size, ventilation, and storage possibilities, you should also consider the tent’s longevity and resilience to the elements. but not least, make sure the tent is within your price range.
FAQs
FAQ 1. What is the lightest backpacking tent on the market?
The Zpacks Duplex is presently the lightest camping tent on the market, it is coming in at only 19 ounces. It is 1 person ultralight backpacking tent.
FAQ 2. How much is a premium hiking tent?
A high-quality tent price can from $200 to $1000. But remember, you are guaranteed comfort and safety when you pay for a premium tent.
FAQ3. Can I use a backpacking tent for car camping?
Although it is possible, using a backpacking tent for vehicle camping is not the best choice. Due to their lightweight and small construction, backpacking tents often don’t have the room and features of a larger vehicle.
FAQ 4. How do I care for my backpacking tent?
If you want to take good care of your camping tent, stay away from setting it up on rough terrain that might damage the fabric or poles. Additionally, to avoid the growth of mold and mildew, keep it dry and clean when keeping it. Wash your tent with mild soap and warm water instead of harsh cleansers or chemical-based solutions.
FAQ5. Can I use a footprint with my backpacking tent?
Yes, using a footprint with your hiking tent may help prevent damage to the ground and extend the tent’s lifespan. However, the footprint must be appropriately designed for your tent. Because choosing a footprint that is either too large or poorly constructed may cause more harm than good.
More: How to Select the Correct Size for Your Backpacking Tent: The Perfect Fit
Conclusion
The correct hiking tent is essential for an enjoyable and successful trip. You can choose the best camping tent for your needs by considering the factors stated in our buying guide and studying our top selections and reviews. Whether you’re a professional hiker or a beginner, investing in a high-quality camping tent can help you have a comfortable and memorable experience on the trail.
We decided on our top pick by considering everything such as Weight, Durability, Weather Resistance, Livability, Ease of Setup, and Price. The Nemo Dagger 2P Ultralight Backpacking Tent is our Top Pick because of its lightweight construction, roomy inside, and ease of setup. It strikes a perfect balance between weight and functionality, making it an excellent choice for backpackers seeking comfort and convenience on their journeys.
The NEMO Hornet Elite Tent is also a great choice if you want the best ultralight backpacking tent.
