10 Best Backpacking Tent Under $100 (Reviews and Buying Guide)

Through backpacking, you can explore exciting locations and enjoy an incredible lot of freedom. It is possible to tweak your travel plans at the snap of a finger. By taking a budget backpacking tent with you, you not only get to enjoy more freedom but also have it easy on your bank account.

Our review and guide take you to the top 10 best backpacking tents under 100. Ultimately, you will not only settle for the best budget backpacking tent but will also learn the features to consider when shopping for one and a host of other important information.

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Reviews Of The 10 Best Backpacking Tent Under 100

1. Coleman Sundome Tent  (Best Value Tent)

Coleman Sundome Tent is a simple freestanding, dome-shaped tent that accommodates two people at a time. Coleman Sundome Tent features a durable overall construction thanks to the coated polyester fabric rainfly and the mesh walls. The coated polyester rainfly is of top quality and offers excellent ventilation apart from protection against UV light and rain. Besides, the rainfly is also waterproof and boasts quality seams for improved resistance against water leakages.

This tent comes with a floor size of 7 feet 5 inches, and a center height of 48 inches, while the weight is 7.2 lbs or 3.26 kg. This accounts for a compact and lightweight structure, which is spacious to contain two campers at a go. The presence of two windows offers further ventilation. Polyethylene is used on the floor of the tent to keep off water leakages coming through the floor. Coleman Sundome also boasts a mesh pocket located on the inside walls. With this pocket, you may keep all your essential effects and gear in an easy-to-access place.

When it comes to setting up this tent, there is not much hassle. As long as you follow the instructions on the bag, you will be good to do it alone. In the same way, disassembling the tent is pretty simple and straightforward. The only challenge comes the time of packing the different parts back in their spaces. Be careful not to tear or damage the fly when packing the tent.

Pros

• ​High-quality tent
• ​Freestanding type
• ​Durable

Cons

• ​A bit bulky
• ​Has not vestibules

Overall, the canvas is a reliable option if you want an easy-to-use tool with enough space to accommodate a couple of backpackers.

2. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent (Best 1-Person Backpacking Tent)

The ALPS Mountaineering Tent is a one-person tent that has received many plaudits from many backpacking enthusiasts. The tent is compact, but it has sufficient space for one person.

It measures 2 feet 8 inches x 7 feet 6 inches at the base. The center height stands at 36 inches while its overall weight is just 4 lbs, although you can compress this to about 3 lbs 5 oz. This shows that the tent is lightweight. You can pack it away for backpacking without a hassle. Into this ALPS Mountaineering Tent construction, is high-quality polyester for the fly.

You might not have to worry about UV light penetration or untimely damage. The fly is also waterproof and leak-proof, and you will remain dry in case of rain.

For ventilation purposes, you have half-mesh walls that allow for proper air circulation. If you need additional space for storage, make use of the vestibule. The vestibule measures 32 inches in depth and covers 10 square feet. It provides extra storage space you may need just in case. Besides, the vestibule keeps the interior always dry and comfortable.

The ALPS Mountaineering is a three-season tent. You can use it for spring, summer, and autumn when temperatures are not mild cold to extremely hot. The tent is very easy to install – it comes with storage pockets, aluminum poles, and ropes for setting up.

Pros

• ​Durable polyester material
• ​Quick and easy to assemble
• ​Well ventilated

Cons

• ​Not ideal to be used in winter

Overall, ALPS Mountaineering Tent is a choice for individual backpackers who need their privacy. Thanks to the one-person space, it provides.

3. ALPS Mountaineering Meramac 2-Person Tent (Best Tent for 2 Persons)

This two-person tent from ALPS Mountaineering comes with additional features when compared to the one-person tent reviewed above. For example, the tent has dual doors and windows. The Meramac is designed to be lightweight thanks to its 7lbs. 9 oz. weight. It is one of the models on the market that is easy to carry for transportation. Coming with a compact footprint, this tent integrates a durable polyester fly that offers protection on the interior.

Setting up this unit is effortless, and you do not need to take a lot of time. The tent utilizes the freestanding dome design featuring two shock-corded fiberglass poles. Then there are aluminum ferrules that are used to secure the poles so that they are strong and stable. With a vast floor area of 38 square feet, 2 dual doors, and 48 inches center height, this tent is set to accommodate two people just fine. For better comfort, the large mesh sides offer occupants increased ventilation. There are two zippered D-shaped doors and widows to cater for the two people.

This tent also comes with factory-sealed seams. Hence, it is waterproof and leakproof to keep the interior dry and warm even in wet weather. Additionally, you have a storage pocket on the inside of the wall. If you wish, this space provides excellent storage for your gear. ALPS Mountaineering is a three-season tent. However, it is not the perfect choice for use in winter or very cold months.

Pros

• ​Spacious for two people
• ​Sturdy and stable
• ​Set up is quick

Cons

• ​Quite heavier

Overall, we like this tent for its freestanding design. The poles used to raise this unit are top-quality. It is durable and provides excellent ventilation.

4. Eureka! Solitaire One-Person Tent (Best Waterproof Tent)

Eureka Solitaire Tent is a three-season tent that is designed to accommodate just one person. Coming in at less than 3 lbs. in weight, Eureka Solitaire opens up into a bevy-style camping tent. The tent is extremely lightweight and, thus, portable. The tent’s dimensions are as follows: interior height is 2 feet 4 inches. The total living area for sleeping is about 21 square feet.

Unlike the freestanding tent designs, Eureka Solitaire assumes a hoop design when installed. The frame is strong and stable, thanks to the fiberglass poles. The rainfly installed on top of this frame is made from high-quality polyester fabric. With this material, no UV light or water entry is going to be an issue. The rainfly is zippered to ensure that you have an extra ready-made entry/exit on top. However, you can also roll the cover on the living space to open up more ventilation and enjoy stargazing.

The walls of the tent come with mesh walls for improved ventilation. The convertible mesh roof provides further ventilation. You can also enjoy the flow of air from the front mesh vestibule. Besides, the seams are sealed to enhance the tent’s waterproofness. While you will get extra storage space from the two storage pockets, store your gear and other personal effects in this space. Other critical accessories to this tent include steel stakes. They are 12 of them, and they offer excellent durability, although you may also switch them for aluminum types.

Pros

• ​​An extra door at the top for ventilation and stargazing
• ​​Durable fabric
• ​​The waterproof rating is 1200mm

Cons

• ​Non-freestanding
• ​Poles are not durable

Overall, this tent comes as one of the most valued tent options as far as waterproofing and leak-proof choices under $100 are concerned.

5. Bessport Camping Tent (Best Lightweight Tent)

The Bessport tent is one of the roomiest 2-person tents on this list for under $100. It packs a punch in terms of on-the-go features, including a lightweight design for easy portability. In terms of size, there are two versions of this tent.

The first version features a tent for one person and measures 87.8 inches x 33.5 inches with 42.1 inches central height. The second version is a two-person tent with 86.6ft x 48.4ft dimensions. The central height sticks out at 43.5 inches. The tent contains two vestibules and a storage bag to provide extra space for storing your gear and other vital necessities. Another essential feature is water and wind resistance. The polyester fabric offers top-quality protection as a cover. It is waterproof, and with heat-sealed seams, there is no chance of water leakages.

The frame of the tent is engineered to be sturdy and stable. This means that your structure remains firm in its place, even during windy or rainy conditions. As for ventilation, the Bassport Camping Tent stands out as one of the best systems. The mesh panels on the sides provide proper ventilation. To open the doors on the tent, use the double zippers (found on doorways and vestibule) for easy entry and exit. The floor of this tent is welded to guarantee occupants maximum protection from on-the-floor water leakage.

Pros

• ​Very roomy
• ​Freestanding design
• ​Strong and stable

Cons

• ​This tent is almost flawless

Overall, this tent comes top of the pile for lightweight models.

6. TETON Sports Mountain Ultra Tent

The TETON Mountain Ultra falls in the popular category of lightweight tents thanks to the low weights. For a backpacker, the lightweight parameter is an essential aspect if you are to fetch the tent for extended backpacking trips without feeling the pinch of carrying it. There are different versions of the Mountain Ultra tents; we have Mountain Ultra 1, 2, 3, and 4 versions, which offer living space for one to four individuals, respectively. Just choose which one fits you, of course, depending on the number of campers going for the outing.

Coming with a single pole in the pitch, setting up the Teton Sports Mountain Ultra is a cinch and happens fast. This model is also a freestanding design – often, this design offers convenience while using the tent. The overall construction of this tent features a sturdy design. The rainfly is largely micro-meshed but also waterproof to resist water from leaking through. The bathtub flooring offers warmth and comfort, and you also enjoy a dry sleep without having to worry about water percolating through your bedding.

In addition, the tent offers two large pockets on the walls. You can pack your stuff in there and be peaceful; they are safe. You will love the seams and corners of each of the versions mentioned above. All are braced and thermally taped to provide extra protection against weather elements.

More: Check our Review of Teton Sports Camp Pillow Here

Pros

• ​Easy to set up
• ​Simple, freestanding footprint
• ​Well ventilated

Cons

• ​Not ideal in areas with heavy downpours

Overall, these tents offer a welcome versatility. The different sizes present campers with a variety of options to choose from.

7. Hyke & Byke Zion 1 and 2-Person Backpacking Tents with Footprint

Hyke & Byke is a proven company that produces some of the best outdoor gear and tools. The Zion Backpacking Tent is one of the best tents in the market. The tent is durable and lightweight. Thanks to the high-quality ultra-light materials used in its construction. The tent is also stable and sturdy courtesy of the 12 7000 Series aluminum alloy stakes. You will not have to hassle installing this tent. Besides, this three-season tent comes with one pole and a clip-pole attachment that offers easy setup and breathability.

Moreover, it packs plenty of space. Apart from the main living area, you get two vestibules for extra storage of your small gear and tools. The waterproof rain fly includes proper seams in corners to keep the tent’s interior dry during rainy conditions. What’s more, two doors on this unit provide easy entry and exit. Hyke and Byke Zion Tent is a compact footprint, which is why it packs conveniently into a small size to fit into its carrying bag. This compactness makes it easy to haul it around in the backpack.

Pros

• ​Waterproof
• ​Durable construction materials
• ​Very spacious

Cons

• ​A bit bulky which may not be ideal for carrying

Overall, this tent offers an excellent warranty for a lifetime.

8. Coleman Hooligan Backpacking Tent

The Coleman Hooligan Backpacking Tent is a top-performing unit that comes with many useful features. The design of this tent is available in three different capacities: two, three, and 4-person capacities.

Coleman Hooligan is a waterproof tent that holds you through wet and rainy conditions for just as long as you could expect. The rain fly is a polyester product with a coating that helps to prevent penetration of UV light into the interior. Given that the rainfly remains intact (does not surge) when wet, your security inside is guaranteed in stormy weather. The structure also features stable walls made of polyester fabric. On the floor of the tent is a high-standard bathtub floor. This is not only a long-lasting solution but also it comes welded on the walls for extra protection against water leakage.

Coleman Hooligan also comes as an easy-to-use tent. Set up is a breeze and takes less time. A front vestibule offers more space and protection against rain outside. For ventilation, this tent is nearly all mesh. The large window and door provide extra air circulation.

Pros

• ​It is waterproof with quality seams around the footprint
• ​Easy-to-use product
• ​Available in different sizes – 2, 3, and 4-person capacities

Cons

• ​The fiberglass poles easily break

Overall, it is a good product offering value for money.

9. Bisinna 2 Person Camping Tent

The Bisinna 2-Person Camping Tent is an excellent choice for couples or friends searching for comfortable and long-lasting camping. This tent is designed to be simple to set up and take down, with a lightweight structure that makes it portable. It has a mesh ceiling and large mesh windows for ventilation. and it is made of strong waterproof polyester fabric.

Pros

• Easy to set up and take down
• Waterproof fabric helps to keep you dry during rainy weather
• Large mesh windows and ceiling provide good ventilation
• Comes with a rainfly for extra protection against the elements
• Compact carrying bag for easy portability

Cons

• Somewhat cramped interior space
• Lack of extra storage pockets

Overall, this is an excellent option if you are looking for a feature-packed tent.

10. Night Cat Backpacking Tent

The Night Cat Backpacking Tent is a great alternative for backpackers who require a lightweight and small shelter. This tent can be set up quickly thanks to the simple ㅇdesign of the poles. It is made of a polyester fabric for waterproof and breathable. It weighs only 2.6 pounds, so it’s light and portable.

Pros

• Lightweight and compact, perfect for backpacking
• Waterproof and breathable fabric
• Simple pole structure for easy setup and takedown
• Compact carrying bag for portability

Cons

• ​Lack of interior space and storage pockets
• Limited ventilation

Overall, this is one of the most lightweight tent choices on the list.

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Best Backpacking Tent Under 100 Buying Guide

If it is your first time purchasing a budget-backpacking tent, deciding on the best one can be tricky. This is especially true if you do not have criteria to guide you. The following backpacking tent-buying guide should be handy in helping you settle for nothing short of the best affordable backpacking tent:

Construction

Because many backpackers do not desire much time pitching their tents, they are into tents that they can construct in real-time. This is particularly true if it is getting dark or the weather is becoming harsh. How quickly it is to pitch a tent is mainly dependent on a tent’s design.

Here are some of the things you need to be aware of:

• Color coding – One of the best advantages of color-coded tents is their easy nature to erect because every tent pole has a color mark and should attach to a tent corner with a similar color.
• Pole hubs – Assembling tents that come with pole hubs is quick because you do not have to guess where each pole should go. On top of that, pole hubs increase a tent’s strength.
• Pole clips – These are easy to attach and light. In addition to that, they provide the tent fabric tension that provides a stronger pitch as well as can enhance airflow beneath the rainfly to mitigate condensation.

More: The Best Sleeping Bag For Hammock

Livability

Simply put, livability is how comfortable one feels when he or she is inside a tent. Many factors affect the livability of a tent. It is prudent to consider every point below when shopping for a budget-backpacking tent:

• Ventilation – When you are inside a tent, it is normal for moisture to build up. Accumulation of moisture can result in condensation especially if not well-ventilated. As a result, it can cause your tent to get damp, thus affecting your sleep comfort. Some of the ventilation features you should look for include mesh ventilation points and breathable fabrics.
• Vestibules – Does cramming gear into your sleeping area bother you? If that is the case, then a tent that features a vestibule is an incredible option. The only thing you have to know about this is that it entails buying a relatively larger tent, which also means that the tent might be heavier.
• Interior Volume – A tent’s interior volume can affect whether you have space to lie down, stand, or sit. The interior volume also affects how much gear one can fit inside a tent. If sleeping is the only thing you plan to do inside your tent, then you do not need a large interior volume. However, if you intend to use your tent for shelter and/or require a little more headroom, it is wise to choose one with a bigger interior volume.

More: Best Pop Up Canopy

Capacity

When we talk about capacity, we mean the number of people that a tent can hold. Tents range from 1 – 12 person tents. For backpacking tents, they usually are 1 – 4 people as the large ones are usually tailored for group or family camping. Do you prefer sleeping inside a tent alone or backpacking by yourself? If yes, then a one-person backpacking tent is enough. Lone backpackers might also choose to purchase a two-person tent for more comfort and space.

If you are into backpacking with a couple of friends or as a couple, then you need a larger-capacity tent like a 4-person or 6-person tent. Larger individuals might also prefer buying a bigger tent. Do you have the gear that you need to store? Then it is prudent to buy a bigger tent.

Generally, the larger your tent is, the greater weight it has. Considering the weight of a tent is important because you will be carrying it in your backpack.

Finally, yet importantly, capacity can determine the price of a tent. Therefore, choosing a smaller one can cost less money and vice-versa. When shopping for a budget backpacking tent, you need to stick to the minimum size required.

More: ​Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag Under $100

Weight

As aforementioned, a tent’s weight is an essential consideration for a backpacker. Remember you will always carry it whenever you are on the move. In terms of weight, here are some terminologies that will help you understand a tent’s weight more:

• Minimum trail weight – When comparing various backpacking tents, the minimum trail weight is the one you should use. This package normally provides you with the minimum trail weight, which is normally the weight of the rainfly, poles, and tent body. It does not comprise the weight of any additionals, such as the footprint or stakes.
• Packed size – A tent’s packed size gives you some clue of the space it will take up in your backpack. Do you plan to buy a tent for more than one backpacker, then it is possible to split the various tent components between you to free up space and distribute the weight in your backpack.
• Packaged weight – This refers to the weight of everything that a tent comes with. Nonetheless, you might not take everything with you. The real weight that you will carry as you step out for backpacking is between the packaged weight and the minimum trail weight.
• Ultralight tents – The Ultralight backpackers usually keep the weight they carry to a bare minimum. Whenever they can, they will shave off ounces in such a way that they carry less weight on their trails. The rule of thumb is that an Ultralight tent is roughly one pound per individual. Considering this fact is essential when searching for the best backpacking tent under 100.

Seasonality

When it comes to seasonality, backpacking tents are categorized based on the seasons they are suitable for. The different categories are:

• Four-season tents – Four-season tents also go by the name of mountaineering tents. Their design is such that they can withstand extreme conditions such as torrential downpours; snow, heavy, high winds, and freezing temperatures.
• Three to four-season tents – Three to four-season tents are also referred to as extended-season tents. You can use them throughout the year. They provide superior protection compared to three-season tents. Their only drawback is the fact that you cannot use them for extreme conditions such as torrential rain or prolonged heavy snow.
• Three-season tents – Three-season tents are perfect for fall, summer, and spring. Generally, they do not provide adequate protection against winter camping elements. These tents are suited best for those that only hike or backpack in good weather characterized by occasional light winds and downpours of rain.

Wall Construction

It is prudent to settle for a double-walled tent. What does this mean? It simply means that the tent features an inner mesh shell that is surrounded by rainfly. By having these two layers separated, the tent will have a moisture barrier that keeps you dry during wet weather.

Materials

The materials utilized to manufacture a backpacking tent are crucial as they determine how waterproof, lightweight, and durable a tent is. When you look closely at a backpacking tent, you will material descriptions such as:

• 200T – This refers to the thread count. It is the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch. The higher the count, the softer, and suppler a material is. A tent’s materials have a thread and denier count that offers the most water resistance, pliability, and durability.
• 20D – This refers to a tent’s Denier rating. The denier rating is handy when it comes to describing the durability and thickness of a material. It is a representation of the thickness of every fiber within a fabric. One denier is roughly a silk strand’s thickness meaning a 20D fabric features strands that are thick as twenty strands of silk that have been woven together. Note: Fabrics with higher denier ratings are thicker. Additionally, they are more water-resistant as the water droplets usually have a hard time pushing through.
• 2000mm Durashield™ polyurethane and silicone – This is the water-resistant coating that manufacturers apply to the material of a tent. In our case, it is a 2000mm thick water-resistant coating comprising silicone and polyurethane. In most instances, a thicker coating results in a waterproof tent. Durashield™ refers to the brand name for the coating, which has been applied to a tent.

As you compare different budget backpacking tents, always remember to evaluate each tent’s coating thickness, thread count, and denier to establish how durable and water-resistant it is.

How To Take Care Of Your Backpacking Tent

The following quick tips will be handy in taking care of your backpacking tent:

Always Store Your Backpacking Tent Dry

If it is possible, you should avoid rolling up your backpacking tent while wet. When you roll it while it is wet, mildew will form, which might run not only its appearance but also cause a health hazard.

On top of that, when you leave moisture on your rolled-up tent, you can severely damage the rainfly’s polyurethane coating. The best attribute about tents with this kind of coating is that they tend to dry quickly. Therefore, all you need to do is hang yours for a couple of minutes and then wave it around to get rid of moisture.

Always Wash Your Tent When Necessary

Backpacking can turn out to be a dirty process. Often, you might go camping or hiking in dusty or muddy locations. For this reason, it is prudent to get rid of any debris from your tent Asap as dust, salt, and mud can harm the water-resistant coating. The good thing is cleaning your tent is a walk in the park. All you need to do is spray a water hose on it until you eliminate the debris. Avoid using chemical cleaners or placing them inside a washing machine as it can damage the tent’s coating.

Re-Seal Your Tent

When it comes to re-sealing your tent, you can buy a spray-on coating to use on your tent. Once you have used your tent for some time, it is normal for it to wear out gradually due to exposure to contaminants, dirt, and harsh weather. When water starts to find its way to your tent, it is prudent to re-seal your tent by applying a water-resistant coating.

Conclusion

Shopping for the best backpacking tent under 100 can be challenging and time-consuming for both experienced and newbie campers. Due to the different seasons, and materials used to make tents, making a decision can be difficult. Lucky for you, we did all the hard work for you and came up with this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

From our extensive research, we settled on the Coleman Sundome Tent as our best backpacking tent under 100. In addition to boasting sturdy construction and being spacious inside, it is also lightweight and made with durable materials.

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