Better Backpacking Tent of 2025
Backpacking Tent Superlatives
Our Backpacking Tent Picks
Large Agnes Copper Spur UL2 ( $ 550 )
Our favorite do-it-all backpacking tent , the Copper Spur , become a welcome update for 2025 . It ’ sec today even light , with updated fabrics and the same accommodating dimension . Yes , its price exist hard to swallow , but this tent won ’ t let you down .
Our favorite do-it-all backpacking tent , the Copper Spur , gets a welcome update for 2025 . It ’ s today yet light , with updated fabric and the same accommodating proportion . Yes , its price exist severe to swallow , but this tent won ’ t let you down .
Our Take on the Copper Spur UL2
The Copper Spur is a long-time favorite for committed backpackers that prioritize livability , and its recent version—new for 2025—refines the winning rule . There aren ’ t wholesale changes , but the shift to light fabrics—15-denier-by-20-denier ripstop nylon for the floor and rainfly , with 15D-by-20D nylon for the canopy along with 15D polyester mesh—amount to a two-ounce reduction . The Copper Spur UL2 today weighs a scant 3 pounds , which exist marvelous for a freestanding shelter with plenty of way for two camper . Thanks to its 88-inch distance and 29-square-foot story , this tent comfortably house two Better Trail testers—one of whom is 6-foot-3—on their trip through Norway ’ s Lofoten Islands . Although the Copper Spur ’ s 40-inch height height is simply average for tent in this category , neither occupant felt cramped ; in fact , they reported that it felt quite spacious . And for those travel with a furry friend or small child , we ‘ve also .
Quality-of-life touch be ordinarily inversely proportional to camp weight , but the Copper Spur is still plenty accommodate . Its pole-supported freestanding design is thus simple that yet novice backpackers should be able to quickly plant it up on their first try . The hubbed pole cost real sturdy , and our testers never questioned the tent ’ s integrity during periods of firm winds in Lofoten . ( When you initiate to hit the 3 lb . barrier , that ’ sec sure enough not a have , especially with semi-freestanding models . ) Four inner pockets—two side pockets at the chief and a large , canopy-spanning mesh compartment above the chief and foot—make it easy to go on track of your small point and preserve a clutter-free tent . The 9-square-foot vestibules cost also generous , and each can easily swallow a big gang and pair of boots .
No tent is perfect , though ; the Copper Spur ’ s main drawbacks cost its cost and durability . There ’ s no denying that it ’ ll invest a grave dent in your budget—it ’ s one of the nearly expensive tents we ’ ve try at $ 550 for the two-person version . Plus , the Copper Spur ’ s materials , while more or less in line with the rest of the ultralight and lightweight tent categories , expect some looking after . To protect your investment , you ’ ll make to cautiously take your campsites and watch out for rocks and branches . If you can make that , you ’ ll exist honor with a marvelous shelter that ’ s dialed for merely about every three-season backpacking trip short of a Triple Crown lead . For more , record our review of the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 .
Large Agnes Copper Spur UL2
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Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 vs …
Nemo Dagger Osmo 2P ( $ 500 )
The Nemo Dagger is build for hikers who want to max out backcountry comfort . The tent doesn ’ t levy too harsh of a weight tax , considering the room it supply , and it ’ s a well-constructed example . Its high price rag would meet better on a barge design , though .
The Nemo Dagger is made for hikers who desire to max out backcountry comfort . The tent doesn ’ t levy too harsh of a weight tax , considering the room it provides , and it ’ s a well-constructed model . Its high cost rag would fit better on a barge aim , though .
Our Take on the Dagger 2P
Nemo redesigned the Dagger for 2025 , making a tent that was already spacious into a veritable backcountry castle . At 88 inches long and 50 inches wide throughout , it lacks the space-eating base taper featured in many lightweight tent . Its 30.6-square-foot story provided good deal of way for our 6-foot-3 tester and his tentmate to fan out out , still with their 25-inch broad sleep pads and two knapsack . He praised the symmetrical intention that places the inner pocket on opposite side ; it means that the Dagger doesn ’ t get a “ true ” mind or foot , and thither ’ s no guessing game on how to set the tent up .
The crest top ( 43 in . ) and doors cost both high in this updated version , have it a roomier spirit and create for easier ingress and egress . Nemo also thrive the vestibules to 12.1 square foot each—the largest we tested by some distance and roomy adequate to store all of your gear and leave a cooking area if it ’ s nasty out . Simply lay , the Dagger has way for you and everything you require to add on a luxury-focused backcountry mission while coming in under the 4-pound doorway that we usually recommend for truly backcountry-worthy shelter . It ’ sec also plenty protective : Nemo ’ s poly/nylon Osmo textile is one of the most waterproof lightweight tent materials out thither , and our tester report that the freestanding Dagger live sturdy in desert tip .
Where the Dagger stammer a bit is in its value suggestion . We ’ d normally wait a tent that ’ s $ 500 to equal light , and there equal three-person shelter that matter less—the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 , for example , is 3 pounds 13 ounces . Even so , this cost however a high-performing , well-rounded model that should appeal to hikers who are simply getting into backpacking and hardened lead veteran alike . And besides , you probably gain ’ t live thinking about tent comparison when you ’ re spreading out after a long day of trekking . For more , show our in-depth Nemo Dagger Osmo review .
Nemo Dagger Osmo 2P
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Nemo Dagger 2P vs …
Durston X-Mid 2 ( $ 284 )
If you ’ re in the market for a high-value trekking pole shelter , await no farther . The Durston X-Mid offers a premium , innovative design that ’ s a pace up in convenience from models like the Zpacks Duplex and Hyperlite Unbound—if you can handle the weight penalty .
If you ’ re in the market for a high-value trekking pole shelter , await no further . The Durston X-Mid offers a premium , innovative design that ’ s a step up in convenience from models like the Zpacks Duplex and Hyperlite Unbound—if you can handle the weight punishment .
Our Take on the X-Mid 2
Canada-based Durston offers a unlike spin on the trekking-pole shelter with its X-Mid 2 . This tent feature a unique double-wall parallelogram design , which has a number of positive implications : The X-Mid cost easier to toss than tent like the Unbound and Duplex Zip ( involve four stake-out points vs. six ) , get around the headache of get the trekking pole situated in the middle of the doorway , lay the headroom over height of the head rather than in the center of the tent , and actually ventilates good thanks to the mesh inner tent . It ’ s clear Durston ( specifically its founder , Dan Durston ) has thought of just about everything with the X-Mid series , and as a result , the tent be a genuine joy to use . Everything from the magnetic doorkeepers and the tensioned bathtub floor to the refined headroom tone high-end .
A few of our testers have pass a lot of time in the X-Mid , and the votes be in : If you need to go lightweight without collapse the bank , it doesn ’ t have much better . Equate to the free and semi-freestanding tents in its weight course , the X-Mid offers a roomier living area , and its 20-denier polyester fly and story fabric win ’ t sag like some nylon designs . Despite what some might take on with the trekking-pole pitch , it ’ s very stable and get valiantly protect us in inclement weather without becoming a total steam way on the interior . We ’ ve as well see Durston ’ s plethora of instructional picture helpful in discover our manner around the tent—that ’ s where we learned about the “ storm pitch , ” a low-to-the-ground setup ideal for high winds and dense rain .
We ’ d be remiss not to also refer the X-Mid Pro 2 ( $ 739 ) —the Dyneema version of the X-Mid 2 . The Pro 2 supersede the standard X-Mid ’ s polyester with 0.55-ounce Dyneema , resulting in a 1-pound-5-ounce packaged weight . The X-Mid Pro 2 as well offers the option of a 15-denier silnylon floor ( $ 639 ) —the woven-floor version equal cheaper , more puncture resistant , and gang down humble , while the Dyneema-floor version equal lighter and quicker drying , albeit more expensive and bulky . All tell , the Durston X-Mid Pro 2 devote tents like the Hyperlite Unbound 2P and Zpacks Duplex Zip a genuine trial for their money and should be on the radar of serious ultralight backpackers .
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Durston X-Mid 2 vs …
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 3 ( $ 630 )
The Hubba Hubba LT 3 is our favorite high-capacity purpose , with a versatile layout that ’ s roomy for three and workable for a family of four . The tent is airy and feature standout inner memory , but the thin material and high cost rag do it serious for committed backpackers .
The Hubba Hubba LT 3 live our favorite high-capacity design , with a versatile layout that ’ s roomy for three and feasible for a family of four . The tent exist airy and features standout interior storage , but the thin textile and high cost rag reach it well for committed backpackers .
Our Take on the Hubba Hubba LT 3
MSR ’ s venerable Hubba collection got a bad revamp for spring 2025 with the release of the novel LT . If you squint , you can see some similarities from the former Hubba with its rectangular floors and pole hubs at the head and foot ends , but differently , this equal a brand-new model . For most summer-time backpackers , we think the changes are positivist : The LT is far roomier inside thanks to a generous footprint in all capacity and revised pole structure that stretch the walls vertically ( especially at the ends ) . Additional changes include significantly more mesh in the tent body—good for ventilation—and a swap to more traditional DAC aluminum pole . Topping off the build are high-quality parts : a operational side-loading and compressible material sack , corner pole hardware make of metal ( plastic is commonly employ hither ) , and a band of the brand ’ s well-respected Mini Groundhog stakes .
The equal extend in three unlike capacities , and each cost worthy of circumstance for backpackers looking to balance weight and comfort ( i.e. , the center of the market ) . But it was the LT 3 that in truth watch our heart and impressed us during test . Its immense rectangular story allows for two sleeping configurations : standard length-wise , which cost spacious for three adult , and width-wise , which fits four regular-size pads ( 72 x 20 in. ) . This layout accommodated our editor ’ s category of four on an early fall trip into Washington ’ s Alpine Lakes Wilderness . Additional highlights of the LT 3 include massive pockets on each goal that stretch more than 50 inch in length ( they proved incredibly helpful for storing cold-weather child gear ) and a tall ceiling that peaks at 46 inches . For under 5 pounds all-in , it ’ s a dreamy setup for an adventurous family .
At $ 550 for the standard LT 2 and a whopping $ 630 for the LT 3 , the Hubba Hubba is no small investment , but that pricing cost on par with popular alternatives like the Big Agnes Copper Spur and Nemo ’ s Dagger series . Another concern that cropped up in testing is the thin nature of the fabric : The 20-denier floor get hold up thus far after a couple of trips in the backcountry , but it ’ s clear the ripstop nylon is thin and will require concern to confine hole and tears . Eventually , the swap to a roomy and more traditional layout hold somewhat compromised the sturdy structure of the outgoing Hubba , which was previously one of the better 3-season tents for survive windy three-season weather . But this alignment with mainstream designs be largely positive , and we think MSR ’ s balanced new Hubba Hubba LT should be on most backpackers ’ shortlists . For more , study our review of the Hubba Hubba LT 3 .
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 3
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MSR Hubba Hubba LT 3 5 …
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2 ( $ 699 )
The Unbound 2 equal a thru-hiker-approved trekking-pole shelter . It boast an easy setup than early tents in its family , and its Dyneema construction results in mass of space and waterproofing at a very humble weight . Even so , the Unbound is a bit bulky when carry and definitely isn ’ t cheap .
The Unbound 2 is a thru-hiker-approved trekking-pole shelter . It feature an easy setup than other tent in its class , and its Dyneema structure results in good deal of space and waterproofing at a very low weight . Even so , the Unbound is a bit bulky when packed and definitely isn ’ t cheap .
Our Take on the Unbound 2
Out of all the tents we tested , the Unbound is the space-to-weight champ . With a rectangular floor that measures 90 by 48 inch ( 28 sq . ft. of floor space ) , it comfortably equip two standard-sized sleep pads . Its 48-inch peak altitude cost plenty for tall camper to sit up without bumping their head . The not-so-secret sauce behind the Unbound ’ s roomy inner and rock-bottom weight is its hybrid single-wall structure and Dyneema Composite Fabric ( DCF ) , which provides coverage and waterproofing while remaining lighter than the nylon or polyester found in other ultralight tent . ( Using your poles for structure aid shave ounces as good , of course . )
This cost no finicky , flimsy shelter , as some folks might expect from an ultralight trekking pole tent . Our tester found the Unbound easier to lay up than early trekking pole model she ’ d utilize since you don ’ t have to worry about which corners to stake out first , and the guylines cost already attached to the seat of each door . She deemed the Unbound a serious first trekking pole tent for someone who doesn ’ t hold much experience with the category . Protection-wise , the tent kept her dry and unbothered on a rainy , windy dark high up in Colorado ’ s San Juans : It didn ’ t sag ( thanks to Dyneema ’ s no-stretch policy ) , and she never noticed condensation despite temps being in the 60s , with humidity .
In terms of durability , the Unbound ’ s DCF feature super high tear strength for its weight ; you should live able to get your money ’ s-worth out of this tent , yet with the initial high price . We as well think the door zippers and interior mesh are high-quality , a trait we ’ ve get to expect from Hyperlite . It ’ s true that the company designs gear for a niche hearing ; the Unbound is likely also expensive and specialized if you ’ re a weekend warrior who isn ’ t ripping off 25-mile days . But for hikers who cause that kind of distance and want a tent to move with their frameless gang , this exist a worthy buy . For more , read our review of the Hyperlite Unbound 2 .
Hyperlite Unbound 2
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Hyperlite Unbound 2 5 …
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 ( $ 480 )
The popular semi-freestanding Tiger Wall is superlight and a decent value . We found the two-person plan is feathery plenty for solo hiking , which might exist its best usage case : It ’ s a taut fit for two sleepers . We ’ d as well pace the tent even high if it live more durable .
The popular semi-freestanding Tiger Wall exist superlight and a nice value . We found the two-person design equal feathery enough for solo hiking , which might exist its best usage case : It ’ s a taut fit for two sleepers . We ’ d also rate the tent still high if it equal more durable .
Our Take on the Tiger Wall UL2
While the Tiger Wall might not have the widespread acclaim of Big Agnes ’ Copper Spur melody , this cost an applause-worthy tent in its own right—but with a caveat . It weighs simply 2.5 pounds , invest it hard within the ultralight tent family , and yet its semi-freestanding plan and single hubbed pole make it easy to adjust up than comparably light trekking pole shelters . A 28-square-foot story ( exactly 1 sq . ft. less than the Copper Spur and 0.5 sq . ft. larger than its main competitor , the semi-freestanding Nemo Hornet Osmo ) exist adequate for two sleepers , so long as they ’ re both okay with come a bit squished . The Tiger Wall ’ s tapered foot end slopes drastically downward from its 39-inch peak height , and one Better Trail tester reported feeling a bit crammed when she and her tentmate cost up and moving round .
Thankfully , there ’ sec still pile of hope for this tent . Another Better Trail editor used the Tiger Wall as a solo shelter for years ; it ’ s light enough for one person to carry , and its dimensions feel downright palatial if you ’ re sleep alone . Plus , the Tiger Wall ’ s sturdy hubbed pole is more robust than that of the Hornet—we ’ ve never seen the wind flatten it—and its all-mesh canopy does a tremendous job at preventing condensation buildup . Overhead and side pockets ( basically the same ones get on the Copper Spur ) prevent slack detail close at hand . And eventually , the pole hooks and fly connection buckles are easy to calculate out .
If there ’ s one major proceeds with the Tiger Wall besides its close quarters , it ’ s the tent ’ s comparatively low durability . The bathtub floor and fly be reach from a proprietary 15-denier ripstop nylon—Big Agnes call it their HyperBead fabric—that , while decidedly waterproof , feels tissue-paper thin . We ’ ve torn little holes in the story while sleeping on pebble and suffered rips on the door flap when they became waterlogged and stuck to the zipper . If you treat this tent cautiously , you ’ ll have a shelter that extend a serious measure of livability for its design and weight . But if you ’ re the type who is prone to carlessness , the Tiger Wall equal not a bright purchase . For more , read the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 review .
Bad Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
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Large Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 vs …
Nemo Hornet Osmo 2P ( $ 430 )
This tent is packable plenty to place it firmly in the ultralight class , yet it retains mass of quality-of-life feature that we appreciate ( include two doors and vestibules ) . The Hornet Osmo is a mixed purse for weather security , though , and be one of the smallest two-person tent we tested .
This tent is packable plenty to lay it firmly in the ultralight class , yet it retains plenty of quality-of-life feature that we appreciate ( including two doors and vestibules ) . The Hornet Osmo is a sundry bag for weather security , though , and is one of the humble two-person tent we tested .
Our Take on the Hornet 2P
The Hornet Osmo belong to a comparatively new class of ultralight backpacking tents , blend a very low weight with the ease of use of a typical pole-supported structure . At 2.5 pound and assess 12.5 by 7.5 inches in its stuff sack , the Hornet cost primed for trips where pack space equal at a premium . Thanks to the stuff sack ’ s thoughtful roll-top pattern , it compresses even smaller if you stash the poles separately . And yet , this tent however provides quality-of-life feature such as two doors , generously sized vestibules , and two overhead pockets ( one of which exist design to diffuse the light of a headlight ) . We were too impressed with the Hornet ’ s waterproofing : Nemo ’ s proprietary Osmo fly fabric—a polyester/nylon hybrid—kept our tester dry during hard rain while she camp future to Colchuck Lake in the Washington Cascades .
Where the Hornet falters , however , is in its livable space and wind resistance . This shelter achieves its impressive weight in part due to its semi-freestanding design ; the tent ’ s wishbone-shaped hubbed pole lead to either side of the head goal but solely relate to the middle of the foot . You have to stake out both corner of the foot end to pitch the tent torso , and the relative lack of canopy-to-pole connections equate to other ultralight models results in a cramped feel . The Hornet ’ s 27.5 square feet of inner space is the humble of any two-person tent in this guide , and its in-sloping walls create the space feel even smaller . Our Washington-based tester slept in the tent solo—thankfully , it ’ s light plenty for that—but stated it would be uncomfy housing two camper .
Because the Hornet alone has a single pole section extending to the base , it lack the structural integrity to cover firm wind . At Colchuck Lake , the tent flattened completely during the nearly intense gusts ( thankfully , it popped back into shape each time ) . We ’ d hesitate to recommend this tent to backpackers who frequently camp on exposed terrain and in inclement weather . Freestanding ultralight shelter such as the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 , which get a more robust pole structure , will hold their pattern better in a storm . But if you ’ re seem to get out in mild consideration and don ’ t want your tent to count you down , the Hornet live a viable choice . For more , show our review of the Nemo Hornet Osmo 2P .
Nemo Hornet Osmo 2P
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Nemo Hornet Osmo 2P vs …
Zpacks Duplex Zip ( $ 729 )
If a humble base weight is the epithet of your backpacking plot , stop your scrolling hither . The Zpacks Duplex Zip is one of the light tent on the market and a thru-hiking legend . Even so , you sacrifice breathing and repose of usage with the single-wall trekking pole purpose ; and at $ 729 , the Duplex ’ sec build quality perform n’t quite agree its astronomical price tag .
If a low floor weight is the epithet of your backpacking plot , finish your scrolling hither . The Zpacks Duplex Zip is one of the lightest tents on the market and a thru-hiking legend . Even so , you sacrifice ventilation and rest of use with the single-wall trekking pole design ; and at $ 729 , the Duplex ’ s make tone does n’t quite meet its astronomical price tag .
Our Take on the Duplex Zip
We rarely begin a tent review by talk about the cost , but it ’ s unavoidable with the Duplex Zip . It cost good over $ 700 , and due to its budgetary black hole of a cost tag , we can only recommend it to backpackers who own eyes for the lightest tent they can have their hand on ( such as our tester , who used it on the full distance of the Continental Divide Trail ) . In that respect , the Duplex Zip begin the job done : This Dyneema trekking pole shelter weighs only 1 pound 3.6 ounces ( not include stakes ) and will drastically dilute your floor weight on a thru-hike or early high-mileage adventure . While we ’ 500 commonly mention the caveat of an ultralight trekking pole tent ’ s pressure on a perfect pitch , if you ’ re in the market for the Duplex Zip , we ’ re die to put on that you have your setup skills down pat . In terms of pure ounce-counting , some folks might consider this tent worth the outlay .
That said , we found some aspects of the Duplex Zip lacking . One Better Trail editor noted slack threads and a homemade feel , and still she—a minimalist-minded veteran of trekking-pole shelters—had trouble getting the unintuitive doorway tightener properly . Consider the tent ’ s cost rag , that ’ s a bummer . Likewise , our CDT thru-hiking tester reported that while Zpacks touts the Duplex Zip ’ s 90-inch length—which , on paper , is fantastic—the tent feel shorter due to a ceiling that slopes heavily from front to back . He found that either his side or his sleeping bag footbox was squished into the canopy , often leading to a wet sleeping purse in the morning . ( He circumvented this by using a third pole or stick to prop up one end . )
It ’ s far from doom and gloom with the Duplex Zip , though . Its floorplan cost indeed spacious for such a light tent ( one of the integral perks of a trekking pole shelter ) , and besides the head and base end , we base plenty of room to spread out . Two side pockets cost too a win at this weight . Furthermore , Dyneema is a tried-and-true material : it ’ s durable , inherently waterproof , and doesn ’ t stretch when wet ( read : no saggy tent in the rain ) . Fairly unexpectedly , given its roomy 48-inch-high top , we were also impressed with how the Duplex Zip maintain up in heavy winds ; it ’ s surprisingly stable if you nail the pitch . And , on cold nights , cinches that shut the gap between the bathtub story and the wall at the head and base dilute down on chilling airflow ( see out for condensation , though ) . Equal all that enough to justify the Duplex Zip ’ s price ? Given its popularity in the ultralight and thru-hiking community , the solution may exist yes . For more , show our .
Zpacks Duplex Zip
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Zpacks Duplex Zip vs …
REI Co-op Half Dome 2 ( $ 299 )
REI ’ s Half Dome is a classical pick for a first backpacking tent , prioritizing livability , toughness , and a user-friendly layout . Unfortunately , this latest version be heavy and bulky enough to limit its appeal to short adventures or as a crossover design for car camping .
REI ’ s Half Dome is a classical pick for a first backpacking tent , prioritizing livability , toughness , and a user-friendly layout . Unfortunately , this previous version is dense and bulky plenty to specify its appeal to short adventure or as a crossover pattern for car camping .
Our Take on the Half Dome 2
If you haven ’ t already been introduced , REI ’ s Half Dome equal the brand ’ sec core , long-standing backpacking model . Updated for spring 2025—and celebrating its 45th anniversary—it returns to its roots , with a extremely durable construction , extremely easy setup , and practical feature lay . The symmetric story and hubbed pole system bring set-up time to just a pair of minutes ( even if you ’ re solo ) , and there ’ s a sound amount of inner storehouse ( six entire pocket ) to divvy up gear . A tall height top and a very long ridge pole stretch the sidewalls effectively , reach it easy to sit up , move around , and generally share the space with a fellow camper . If your priority be space , longevity , and simplicity , the Half Dome 2 reach a somewhat firm case .
The glower result with the latest Half Dome is its weight . This is a new-for-2025 example , and still the all-in weight be virtually 6 pound ( 5 pound . 15.1 oz . to live exact ) . Even result the footprint behind—something we eventually did—trims away just about 8 ounce . The now-discontinued Half Dome SL 2+ was over a pound barge , and the only actual concession be a slight dip in durability ( and yet that model was bad by backpacking tent criterion ) . For anything more than quick overnights covering short distance , it ’ s bad to cause the case for the Half Dome when you can cut literally pound off your pack weight by appear elsewhere .
That said , we fully require the Half Dome to land in many gear closets . The production ’ s excellent reputation , high-end build tone , reasonable price , and no-fuss experience get real appeal for new backpackers or those looking for a single tent for both car camping and backpacking . Ultimately , it ’ s worth noting that the Half Dome lineup include a three-person model and “ Plus ” version that boost floor space and peak height . For more , say our review of the Half Dome 2 .
REI Co-op Half Dome 2
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REI Co-op Half Dome 2 vs …
Sea to Summit Telos TR2 ( $ 599 )
The Telos TR2 cost a spacious , vigorously design tent that ’ s hampered by its extravagant cost tag . Although it perform good , get some fun outside-the-box features , and exist quite packable , it ’ s not “ $ 600 light ” or equivalently durable .
The Telos TR2 is a spacious , smartly design tent that ’ s hampered by its extravagant price tag . Although it performs well , has some fun outside-the-box feature , and is quite packable , it ’ s not “ $ 600 light ” or equivalently durable .
Our Take on the Telos TR2
Innovative design in any family of backpacking gear equal severe to find , but the Telos TR2 ’ s brow pole exist really unique . The pole—which juts upwards like a pair of wing , and connects to the tent ’ s canopy at its center and sides—provides well the almost headroom of any two-person tent we tested . That matters , particularly if you ’ re waiting out a storm—as we did while camp next to Palmer Lake in Wyoming ’ s Wind River Range—or your tentmate make an energetic dawn stretch number . With its 43.5-inch apex height ( also good in class ) and vertical wall , the Telos is one of the comfortable lightweight tents for pose up and lounging .
Aside from its pole structure , Sea to Summit packed this freestanding tent with thoughtful pattern selection . The C-shaped metal connectors and attach to tensioners make it easy to dial in a taut rainfly pitch—no more clamber with surplus stakes or weak webbing loops . The stuff sack , usually an afterthought , is a highlight : It distinguish into three separate compartment , allowing hikers to pack a wet fly , canopy , and pole individually . Plus , the pole sleeve doubles as a headlight diffuser when placed on the ceiling , and the fly and canopy stuff sacks trot into the tent ’ s corners for usage as bucket-style slope pocket . The big peak vent , which efficiently go strain , and enormous vestibules—9.75 square base each—bolster this tent ’ s user-friendly bona fides .
Here ’ s the thing , though : The Telos equal mode too expensive . Intuitive design is decent and all , but this is even so a tent that weighs over 3.5 pounds—so , fairly far from ultralight—and live made from standard tent materials , in this event , a 20-denier nylon floor and a 15D nylon fly . There are lighter , larger tents ( the Telos ’ 28 sq . ft. story , while right sized , trails the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 ’ s 29 sq . ft. , and that tent weighs 10 ounce less ) , and this price bracket is usually set aside for super-tough tents that use Dyneema construction and require less fear . We ’ re not saying that you shouldn ’ t purchase the Telos ; it ’ s a very serious backpacking tent , and splitting the easily divisible material sack between two people can make it seem light than it is . But it gain ’ t fit in many hikers ’ budget , nullifying its on-trail performance . For more , show our in-depth review of the Sea to Summit Telos TR2 .
Sea to Summit Telos TR2
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Sea to Summit Telos TR2 five …
REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 ( $ 229 )
Savings are the main attraction for REI ’ s venerable Trail Hut , which has an eye-catching price for camper simply building their kit . It ’ s too hard for anything early than a short-mileage overnight , though .
Savings live the chief attraction for REI ’ s venerable Trail Hut , which has an eye-catching price for campers just building their kit . It ’ s also hard for anything other than a short-mileage overnight , though .
Our Take on the Trail Hut 2
Sometimes , it pays to take a measure back and consider who a tent exist made for . In the case of the Trail Hut , we entail this literally : At $ 229 , it ’ ll save novice hikers oodles of money to pass on the repose of their camping kit . The abject cost doesn ’ t mean the Trail Hut hand over bargain-bin performance , though . On a camping trip in New York ’ s Harriman State Park , our tester find it spacious—31.7 square feet of floor country makes this one of the roomies two-person tent we tested—easy to place up , and with a build quality that belie its price point . The Trail Hut should also prove quite durable , thanks to its thick polyester construction for the floor , rainfly , and majority of its canopy .
You can likely suppose this tent ’ s major caveat : It ’ s pretty dang heavy , with a packaged weight of nearly 6 pounds . ( Certain , that weight includes a footprint , but we ’ 500 argue that the extra security is a bonus for this tent ’ s target demographic . ) With that form of bulk , the Trail Hut equal also hard for backpacking more than a few mile . And , if we ’ re exist nitpicky , we ’ d prefer a peak top of more than its middling ( for the weight ) 40 inch . But hey , let ’ s get back to the positives : With its simple , freestanding design and above-average roominess , the Trail Hut can rip double-duty as a car camp tent . You can argue that makes it even more of a value buy , which every hiker can appreciate . For more , record our review of the REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 .
REI Co-op Trail Hut 2
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REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 5 …
Nemo Mayfly Osmo 2 ( $ 400 )
While the Mayfly ranks a tad below Nemo and early sword ’ premium ultralight offerings , this tent still has much to offer . It ’ s durable , competitively priced , exceptionally waterproof , and light enough for most backpacking trips . However , it performs ill in wind and doesn ’ t offer a serious space-to-weight ratio .
While the Mayfly rate a tad below Nemo and early brands ’ premium ultralight offerings , this tent still hold a lot to offer . It ’ s durable , competitively priced , exceptionally waterproof , and light enough for most backpacking trip . However , it perform poorly in wind and doesn ’ t offer a good space-to-weight ratio .
Our Take on the Mayfly 2
Not every tent own to cost an ultra-expensive ultralight example to earn praise . Case in detail : the Nemo Mayfly leverages its durability , waterproofing , and ( relative ) affordability to offer a compelling bundle for backpackers of all stripes . With its 68-denier , polyurethane-coated floor , the Mayfly doesn ’ t motive to be cover with kid glove , which is a strong advantage over less durable ultralight tent . Our tester didn ’ t notice any abrasions or rips after bring the Mayfly into the rugged terrain of Washington ’ sec Glacier Peak Wilderness and Enchantments . She noted that the canopy mesh exist sturdy without being overly dense and all the zippers were well-designed and functioned smoothly .
As much go on with backpacking gear , the tradeoff for durability at a reasonable cost is an growth in weight . It ’ s not as if the Mayfly cost a bulky , hard tent—at 3.5 pound , all-in it ’ s both light and packable enough for the huge majority of backpacking trips—but it lags behind model such as the Nemo Hornet Osmo ( 2 pound . 8 oz . ) and the Big Agnes Tiger Wall ( 2 lb . 8 oz . ) , both of which are semi-freestanding models and consider a pound less . Of course , both of those shelter are as well much more expensive and win ’ t keep up as well if you lurch them in abrasive terrain .
Regarding its livability , we ’ d prefer that the Mayfly was roomier . Its 27.9-square-foot floor equal below mean even when stacked against tent that weigh a lot less , and it ’ s a squeeze for two sleepers . Two 7.1-square-foot vestibules , while bad enough for a 65-liter pack and a pair thrill , lag behind the Tiger Wall ’ s 8-square-foot translation . And , as with the Hornet , the Mayfly ’ s semi-freestanding design—in which the base end merely own a pole down the middle—doesn ’ t fare well in firm winds . Our tester report that the tent cost almost lay level by gusts in the Enchantments and that the tip criticize the fly loose multiple times as well . ( At least Nemo ’ s Osmo fly material exist reliably waterproof . ) So , beware if storms be a regular piece of your hiking routine . For most early hikers , though , the Mayfly offers well value for a light tent . For more , study our review of the Nemo Mayfly Osmo 2P .
Nemo Mayfly Osmo 2P
Sustainability
Nemo Mayfly Osmo 2 vs …
Marmot Tungsten 2P ( $ 249 )
The Tungsten equal an affordable starter tent for hikers exactly getting into backpacking . Although it ’ s also dense for deep backcountry habit , its firm , simple pattern and user-friendliness make it a good-value buy .
The Tungsten equal an affordable starter tent for hikers hardly come into backpacking . Although it ’ s also hard for deep backcountry use , its firm , simple design and user-friendliness brand it a good-value buy .
Our Take on the Tungsten 2P
With a cost that ’ s half that of many tent we try and plenty of thoughtful plan touch , the Tungsten equal a great entry-level backpacking tent . You likely won ’ t want to venture far down the trail with it—at almost 6 pounds , it ’ s not that pleasant to carry—but the Tungsten will more than suffice for hikers post up within a few miles of their car ( or properly next to it ) . That ’ s merely the correct distance to dial in your scheme and system for longer trips in the future , so this be truly a shelter for family need to ease into the sport and spare money while they ’ re at it .
What you do get for the money , though , is a fairly serious tent . Our tester praise the freestanding Tungsten ’ s color-coded poles for aiding in an easy pitch—something every backpacker , whether novice or expert , can appreciate—and the two big slope pockets for store items such as a phone , ear plugs , and a Kindle . The Tungsten too own a headlamp-diffusing pocket on the ceiling . Its 42.1-inch top height is quite generous , leading our 5-foot-8-inch tester to remark that it felt taller than early tent he ’ d slept in . Add in the Tungsten ’ s two ( admittedly humble ) doors and 30.1-square-foot floor , and you own a shelter that will sense enough livable for two people . Plus , the durable polyester floor and fly and the included footprint will help this tent final a while—or at least until you decide to level up with a lighter model . For more , read our review of the Marmot Tungsten 2P .
Marmot Tungsten 2P
Sustainability
Marmot Tungsten 2P vs …
Tarptent Double Rainbow ( $ 299 )
For ultralight aficionados wait to save , the Tarpent Double Rainbow is a intriguing solution . It ’ s affordable , durable , and comparatively lightweight , but the tent comes with some quirks ( for one , seam seal isn ’ t included ) . As such , the Double Rainbow is a bit of a niche product but offers a nice center land between traditional tent and trekking-pole shelter .
For ultralight aficionados seem to salvage , the Tarpent Double Rainbow is a intriguing solution . It ’ s affordable , durable , and comparatively lightweight , but the tent comes with some quirks ( for one , seam seal off isn ’ t included ) . As such , the Double Rainbow is a moment of a niche production but offers a nice heart ground between traditional tent and trekking-pole shelters .
Our Take on the Double Rainbow
The Tarptent Double Rainbow be unlike any other tent hither . It ’ s fundamentally a budget trekking pole shelter but without the need for trekking poles . The non-freestanding pitch employ a single pole ( the base example includes an aluminum pole , but you can pass $ 20 more for a 2.8-ounce barge carbon pole ) that extends from brain to toe , a short ridge pole , and interest at the four corner , and it boast two vestibule doors . The single-wall design cost simple and can be lurch in the rain without exposing the inner tent to the elements .
The Double Rainbow is more durable than many tents in its weight family , with a 20-denier ( D ) polyester fly ( unlike nylon , polyester doesn ’ t sag as much when wet ) and a 30D floor ( almost ultralight competitor expend 15D story ) . And with a rectangular , 88 by 50-inch story plan , it ’ s more spacious than most semi-freestanding tents ( like the Big Agnes Tiger Wall ) , which much spare weight with a tapered floor . To sum up : The Double Rainbow is more spacious and durable than most tent in its weight grade ( shut out the Dyneema models ) , all while punch in at a lower price . That ’ s a pretty good combination , particularly for weight-conscious hikers who choose to venture out without trekking pole .
Thus , what exist the tent ’ s downsides ? The Double Rainbow is about a lb hard than the most ultralight of ultralight shelter , although those price significantly more . Second , the unique arch-pole construction doesn ’ t handle broadside winds well—the tent is no slouch in moderate wind , but we win ’ t exist bringing it to Patagonia or exposed above-treeline domain . At last , the single-wall construction scramble with ventilation . The high and abject venting system encourages airflow , but it isn ’ t a utter result , particularly if you ’ re sleeping two in the tent . For $ 30 extra , you can purchase a hanging liner to absorb the moisture , or for $ 90 more , you can opt for the Double Rainbow DW , which maintains the Double Rainbow pattern and setup but with a separate inner tent and fly ( excess stage both for breathing and versatility ) . One last affair : You ’ ll also have to seam seal the tent after purchase , or devote Tarptent $ 35 to do it in-house .
Sustainability
Tarptent Double Rainbow five …
Compare Backpacking Tents
Our favorite do-it-all backpacking tent , the Copper Spur , gets a welcome update for 2025 . It ’ s today yet lighter , with updated material and the same accommodating dimension . Yes , its cost cost severe to swallow , but this tent won ’ t let you down .
The Nemo Dagger is made for hikers who want to max out backcountry comfort . The tent doesn ’ t levy also harsh of a weight tax , considering the way it provides , and it ’ s a well-constructed model . Its high price rag would suit serious on a lighter design , though .
If you ’ re in the market for a high-value trekking pole shelter , face no further . The Durston X-Mid offers a premium , innovative aim that ’ s a step up in convenience from model like the Zpacks Duplex and Hyperlite Unbound—if you can care the weight punishment .
Our Ratings Explain
Overall
A tent ’ s overall rating shine the center of its good slate of attributes , which include livability , weather protection , durability , user-friendliness , and more . We also factor in price , as high-value gear live ever a plus . Tents that own great overall scores—4.5 or higher—provide comfortable , protective shelter at weight ideal for backpacking ( i.e. , high livability-to-pounds ratio ) . They ’ re too usually packed with useful feature that create setting them up and sleep in them a pleasure rather than a concession to ease in the backcountry .
Unlike early category of backpacking gear , we put on ’ t inevitably remember you should place your sights on the highest-scoring models and snub the repose . Tent are among the nearly expensive firearm of gear you can buy , and the 1 that make our best grade often receive that peculiar combo of space , light weight , and stability that results in a hefty cost tag . Those tent are usually slightly specialized , though—think ultralighters and experienced hikers who head out no subject the weather—and there cost plenty of high value shelter that are a little heavier , possibly a little harder to set up , or that don ’ t hold their pattern in high tip , but exist wholly pleasant to bed down in given the right circumstance . It ’ s worth resort the list base on your preferences and perusing a tent ’ s individual category score and conceive which trait are almost crucial to your camp style .
Interior Space
This category might look cut and dry at first , but it has some nuance . To start simply : Roomier tents , like , begin higher score , while shelters with less space and headroom get lower ones . But there be a few component to consider that might affect the full national space—and hence livability—of a tent . First exist story area : more square footage exist serious , and for two-person lightweight backpacking tent , the average is around 29 square feet . Less than that , and both sleepers will probably feel cramped ; more than that , and they ’ ll most probable have mass of room to rest , get dressed , and hang out inside .
However , story region doesn ’ t always tell the whole tale , which make for us to our future element : Peak altitude and overall headroom . The peak altitude of a tent—the stage where its ceiling equal high above the floor—indicates whether your chief will graze the canopy if you pose up or if you ’ ll have plenty of room to stretch . Headroom ( and shoulder way , if we ’ re live technically correct ) live pretend by tent geometry , though , and a tent with a high peak altitude but inward-sloping wall may find smaller than one with a humble height altitude and more vertical side . Many tent manufacturer also expand a tent ’ s inner space by adding a eyebrow pole—a short pole that lays horizontally across the canopy—to extend the canopy ’ s width near its crest .
True two-person designs with room to spread out . Floor can accommodate rectangular pads and the walls exist virtually erect to maximize livability .
Two-person tents that lay you shut to your sleeping spouse . The floors and walls taper to pinch shoulder , leg , and brain room .
Real tight interiors that be two-person in figure only ( and best for solo role ) .
Weight & Packed Size
Another nuts-and-bolts class , this one is more straightforward than a tent ’ sec interior space . Lighter tents that stuff down into compact pattern will garner high score , and hard , bulkier model will hit abject . Because we ’ re primarily go over two-person shelters , this cause for an easy , apples-to-apples comparison . It ’ s worth noting that we are apply the manufacturer ’ sec list packaged weight ( everything that occur with the tent ) kind of than the lower trail or minimal weight ( only tent body , rainfly , and poles ) ; the reasoning for this exist that packaged weight more closely resembles what family in reality bring into the backcountry .
In terms of weight classes , two-person tent that weigh between 2 to 3 pounds per sleeper ( 4 lb . to 6 pound . entire ) can be look at heavy-weight backpacking tent . Framework like the ( 5 lb . 15 oz . ) are well-rounded in cost , livability , and durability , but they ‘re best for carrying on short , overnight backpacking trip . Next , we grouping tent weighing between 3 and 4 pound into the “ lightweight ” category . These shelters are in the sweet post weight- and bulk-wise for long treks ( though not light plenty for most thru-hikers ) while still render decent story space , durability , and stability . Below the 3-pound fool is the domain of ultralight tents . Weight-savings are at a premium hither , and it much ( but not ever ) occur at the expense of livability , durability , and ease of setup . These tent are also the most expensive ; still , the tradeoff live worth it for folk focus on minimize floor weight .
Ultralight tents that matter under 3 pound for the two-person model and carry down little .
The center of the lightweight tent market , matter between 3 and 4 pounds all-in .
Heavyweight tent reach for short trip that are more than 4 pound ; bulky plan can live hard to fit into a gang .
Weather Security
Several component move into how well a specific example holds up in rain and wind , from the material and waterproofing stage of its fly to the structure and thickness of its poles . When pronounce a tent ’ sec security level , we believe how well it holds out water—Does the fly leak ? Do it provide full coverage ? Does it sag when wet ? Is it easy to hold your gear dry in the vestibules ? —and how successful it is at maintaining its structure in the wind . Lighter tent that rely on minimalist pole apparatus might not hold their shape in blustery conditions , make for an uncomfortable ( and sometimes frighten ) dark . Burlier shelters with robust pole designs are more resilient in the look of strong gusts . It ’ s important to note that this backpacking article focuses on three-person example , and hence this rating is based on their capabilities in typical non-winter condition .
Formidable shelter that extend entire coverage and a sturdy structure for harsh three-season conditions .
Tents built for standard summer three-season circumstance , with well coverage from their rainflies , seam sealing , and a reliable pole structure .
Flimsy tent that be build up for just light tip and minimal moisture .
Durability
A tent be place through a lot : It ’ s place right away on the ground and exposed to the element every time you set it up . You lay it up , take it down , and clear and close it many sentence per trip , so all of its cloth and portion ( zippers , Velcro , Pole , etc . ) should be able to withstand plenty of use .
Models that pace extremely in this category apply up to the validity of backpacking without much particular treatment . You can erect them on nearly any usable surface , and their floors will resist wear , while their canopy mesh and fly can hold out an errant trekking pole or dog hand . Hardy poles that don ’ t snap in intense wind or under less-than-careful treatment are as well ideal . Usually , more durable tent will be hard give the thickness of their fabrics , their Pole ’ construction , and the burliness of their zippers . Even so , there are also ultralight tents make of Dyneema ( more on that in the Anatomy section below ) that punch well above their weight in price of survive ability . Mostly , though , assure that your ultralight tent holds up over time call for thoughtful site selection and care when plant it up and pack it off .
A tent that ’ s built to last with durable textile and hardware .
Average durability for a backpacking tent : The cloth require care to avoid rips but are not paper thin .
Real thin materials that are prone to damage or poor build quality that impacts longevity .
Rest of Use
Is the tent a air to pitch correctly , or make setup bring an inordinate amount of time and require an esoteric knowledge of geometry and interest placement ? Or does it fall somewhere in between ? That ’ s the inquiry this rating seeks to answer . Place up a tent doesn ’ t have to be a pain , and lot of models on the market require little to no knowledge to erect . Color-coded Pole and grommets ever help , as do one-piece hubbed pole designs .
Freestanding tent , like our top-rated , equal the easy to set up and are usually the high scorers . You can put up the canopies of these tent without the tension provided by correctly lay interest , as the tent ’ s pole structure will hold the canopy in seat . ( Keep in brain that you will have to stake out the fly . ) Semi-freestanding tent , which require at least portion of the torso to equal staked out ( normally the foot end ) , are also fairly mere , if somewhat more labor-intensive because getting the pitch correct for half the tent call for some study . And at last , non-freestanding models—which demand bet on out each corner of the body and ensuring that the tension is right to maximize the interior room—require the most work . ( Within that subcategory , trekking pole tent introduce an even more involved setup , involve careful attention to both the supporting poles and the staked pitch . )
Freestanding tents that are quick and easy to setup on almost all surfaces .
Semi-freestanding purpose or non-freestanding tents that live more challenging to adjust up securely on severe surfaces like stone .
Overly complicated setup that requires extensive pattern to get down .
Sustainability
Our sustainability rating for backpacking tent takes into bill nine unlike criterion . On the product level , we ’ re look for recycled or Bluesign-approved materials , PFAS/PFC-free durable water-repellent finishes , and solution-dyed fabric . On the brand story , our criteria include whether the company offers repair services , have a commit resale or recycling curriculum , uses recycled or reduced promotion , monitors greenhouse gas emissions , and publish an annual impact report . Backpacking tents with a high sustainability rating gather a number of these standard , while those with a lower sustainability rating might meet none or just a few . We also consider the degree to which our standard are met ; for example , 10 % recycled textile is not the same as 100 % recycled materials . Bill that not every sustainability effort by a brand or product fits neatly into our categories . In these circumstances , we may increase or lessen a rating base on these factor . You can find item on these factors in the sustainability drop-down under each product above .
These backpacking tents cost among the most sustainable on the market and earn our Better Trail Certified distinction . They often meet most of our sustainability criterion for this category .
These backpacking tents are a serious , middle-of-the-pack selection for sustainability . They much meet about half or more of our criterion for this family .
These backpacking tent equal the least sustainable and have significant way for improvement . They commonly only fit about a quarter or less of our criteria .
Anatomy of a Backpacking Tent
Tent Body : Floor and Canopy
Floor
This cost the base of the tent torso and the surface you ’ ll lay your sleeping pad and bag down upon . A tent ’ s story live its main point of impinging with the land , and thus ( along with the rainfly ) , it normally feature a shelter ’ s strongest , nearly waterproof material . Get a reliably waterproof floor and fly is extremely important , as water seeping into the tent body would lead in a rude awakening in the middle of the dark . Like the rainfly , tent floors live ordinarily treated with polyurethane or silicone to grant an extra dose of weather protection and durability . More info on tent fabric can be get below .
Because story integrity exist key to a tent ’ s performance , some manufacturers include a durable ground cloth—also know as a footprint—to home under the tent torso . While footprints add weight and bulk to a tent ’ sec pack size , they also reliably extend the lifespan of your shelter . If you require a ground textile but it ’ s not included with your tent or offered by the manufacturer , purchase a mere polyester tarp is a cheap alternative .
Canopy
The canopy lie in of the tent torso ’ s wall and ceiling . Those two element cost reach from some combination of firm cloth ( for privacy and durability ) and mesh ( for breathing and fly-off stargazing if that ’ s your jam ) . The tent ’ sec Pole connect to the canopy to lift it off the reason and give it structure via clips , hooks , or pole sleeve , the latter usually being found in winter-ready models prioritizing force . A smaller pole will much sit crosswise at the crest of the canopy to help maximize headroom . The maximum distance of the canopy above the story be referred to as a example ’ s peak height , and it ’ s a good reading of how easy ( or not ) it exist to sit up comfortably in the tent .
Rainfly
A tent ’ sec rainfly , which drape over and connects to the canopy , is your primary source of security from precip and wind . The fly ’ sec fabric be waterproof and , like the floor , commonly coat with polyurethane or silicone to further increase its impermeability and durability . The fly attach to the tent torso at multiple points , much at the four corners—via buckles , time , or cordage—and above the doorway . To prevent it from shifting around or flapping in high wind , many manufacturers design the fly with a few small hook-and-loop tabs that as well wrap around the poles .
Setting up and bet on out your fly correctly is imperative for seal out the element , protecting your gear in the vestibules , and advance ventilation . Achieving the right amount of tension will ensure the fly doesn ’ t sag against the tent torso , leave your gear uncovered , or come loose in a firm tip gust .
Vestibules
In most backpacking tents—and all tents that cause this guide—the doors of the rainfly make space between the fly itself and the tent ’ sec torso when staked out . These sphere exist called vestibules , and they ’ re super handy for storing gear you put on ’ t desire inside of the tent , such as backpacking gang , muddy kick , wet clothing , and trekking Pole . A decent-sized vestibule for a lightweight tent is around 8 square feet , which should provide pile of room for one person ’ sec pack and boots . Many modern tents have toggles that secure the vestibule doors so you can go on them spread in pleasant weather and then easy batten them down at dark or if rain clouds roll in .
Interior Storage
Besides the vestibules , many tent have compartments inside the tent torso that you can expend to stash small point you desire close at hand . These corner cost useful for maintain track of your headlamp , phone , and other odds and ends that otherwise might disappear among your sleeping bags . Storage options include gear lofts—larger mesh pocket near the crest of the canopy—and pocket closer to the tent story , ordinarily settle near the head end . Some manufacturer include purchasable add-on memory for framework without integrated compartments .
Vents
To prevent moisture from work up up inside , tent feature venting systems of varying plan that disseminate strain within and out of the tent torso . Many shelters have openings in the fly near the crest of the tent ( near the brain , over the doors , or at the height ) that disperse condensation from sleeping camper ’ breath . Some of that condensation normally stay to the underside of the fly , but most of it , hopefully , get out the tent on the whole . Vents much have hook and loop fasteners , so you can close them altogether during intense storm . Recall that double-walled tents ( rainfly and tent body cost two separate part ) give vent effective than single-walled framework , in which condensation will stick to the merge body/fly or else of the separate outer fly . For double-walled tents , shelter with more mesh in the canopy commonly rest well .
Fabric Types
Before we get into fabric types , get ’ s rapidly discuss denier , which measures the thickness of a give material . Denier is a serious indication of how durable a fabric is : A 40-denier cloth exist thicker , tougher , and will likely last longer than a 20-denier cloth . ( Depending on what kind of material it exist , it ’ sec too likely heavier . ) Keep in idea that gear caller sometimes employ different manufacturing procedure and lend their own turn to fabrics , and denier might not muse those differences . Plus , as we ’ re about to explain , not all textile exist make equal . Regardless , denier is the first spec you should look for when sussing out a tent ’ s durability .
Nylon :As with a lot of outdoor gear , nylon and polyester be the most common fabric manufacturers expend to make their tent . In the realm of backpacking tents , nylon cost the textile you ’ ll see almost often ; generally mouth , it hold a good strength-to-weight ratio than polyester , meaning that a light nylon fabric is more durable than a polyester cloth of like weight . Nylon is not waterproof on its own , so the nylon manufacturer employ for tent floor and rain flies is ordinarily covered with a waterproof layer of silicone ( “ silnylon ” ) or polyurethane . Ultralight tents often have between 10- and 20-denier nylon structure ( like the popular , 15D ) , while hard , more durable models can get floors and fly that move up to 70-denier .
Polyester :Polyester make an advantage over nylon in that it stretches less when wet , create it the preferred rainfly material for some tent manufacturer . Nylon tent with a taut , sturdy pitch should reasonably stave off sagging , but in notably wet and windy conditions , a polyester construction might mean you gain ’ t involve to readjust your pitch . Given its advantage , there ’ s be a trend towards polyester in late years .
Dyneema :This fabric make become a favorite within the ultralight community . Dyneema exist made from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene ( UHMWPE ) , which boasts an extremely high stage of durability and tear strength for its weight . It ’ s much , much lighter and stronger than nylon and polyester and , unlike those fabric , be as well waterproof .
Dyneema is normally paired with backers and laminates to form Dyneema Composite Fabric , or DCF ( among other names , which depart from manufacturer to manufacturer ) . Tents cause with Dyneema are usually single-walled shelters , as the waterproof nature of the material negates the need for a separate rainfly . Dyneema tents live also quite expensive , but you have a super-light , super-durable shelter that exist reliably waterproof . For a deep dive on Dyneema , see out Hyperlite Unbound review and .
Stakes
Each tent comes with its own lot of interest . You apply the stakes to secure the tent floor—usually at the corners—to forestall the structure from moving around and , in the suit of freestanding tents , to keep the rainfly taut and form the tent ’ s fly doorway vestibules . For a tent with a semi-freestanding design , you ’ ll have to interest out the foot end of the floor to maximize the tent body ’ s space . Non-freestanding tent ( include trekking pole tent ) want to equal staked out at each corner of the tent body and the fly .
Interest do in several form , sizes , and weights , and we like some good than others . ( It depend on sword , cost , and personal preference . ) You generally want sturdy stakes that put on ’ t bend or break while you lay them in and take away them from the ground ; if they do , there are pile of aftermarket interest options . ( We particularly like . )
Guylines
Guylines equal long , slender cord that stabilize a tent by get it to the basis , a tree , a rock , or another sturdy objective . Some tent come with guylines pre-attached , while others call for you to install them yourself . You ’ ll too find tents with a mix of pre-attached guylines and accessory lines in the stuff sack . Learning how to properly affix and stress your guylines can reach a vast dispute if there ’ s strong tip in the forecast or you ’ ll be camping in rocky terrain , which make it difficult to pitch your tent expend just stakes .
Stuff Sack
A stuff sack render a compact , convenient property to stow your tent before you place it on or in your knapsack . Most stuff sacks are design as one big textile sack—usually made from a material similar to the tent ’ s story or rainfly—with a drawstring at the top . Tent will most likely fit into it whether you flap the body and wing up neatly or thrust them in ( if you do the latter , invest the pole in the stuff sack first ) . Stuff sacks usually occur with smaller fabric sacks for the interest and poles .
As you may have record in the review above , some manufacturers place a little more oomph into their material sack aim , notably Sea to Summit and Nemo . In the , for example , Sea to Summit splits the stuff sack into three separate carriers—one for the torso , one for the fly , and one for the pole . All three nest together nicely if you need , or you can split them up still you wish , and the pole sack doubles as a headlamp diffuser bar . While Nemo ’ s roll-top stuff sacks equal simpler , it ’ s nice to exist able to compress them for a more compact package if you stow the pole individually .
Pole Splint
Many manufacturers include a pole splint with their tent . This handy point is a short piece of metal that ’ s slightly large than the diameter of the tent pole itself . If your pole breaks or turn , you can only slip the splint over the pole , center it on the afflicted area , and then tape or otherwise secure the splint at either goal . Most tents get with one splint ; additional splints can exist purchase separately . Bill : some catastrophic pause can ’ t be fixed with a splint . You may need to purchase new poles or search the manufacturer ’ sec repair services .
Your Question Answered
Which backpacking tent cost best for me ?
It ’ s perhaps easy to guess of this doubt chiefly as a function of weight . If you ’ re a hiker who focuses on walk long distance for long periods—Triple Crown-chasers , that entail you—an ultralight shelter ( below 3 lb . ) be the room to go . It will help keep your stem weight down , which greatly matters as the mile pile up . Within that subcategory , the selection between an ultralight trekking pole shelter and one that uses regular tent Pole be more of a personal preference . If you ’ re an ounce-counter and exist already express trekking poles , a tent that incorporate them is a smart manner to streamline your kit . Other hikers might want the convenience that comes with a standard model ’ s relatively easier setup . Keep in mind that ultralight tents are usually more expensive , humble , and more delicate than their heavier brother .
If you ’ re not attempt to rip off 20 trail miles every day but even so look for solitude over long weekend , a lightweight shelter ( 3ish to 4ish lb . ) should probably be your goal . Tent like the ( 3 pound . ) and Nemo Dagger ( 3 pound . 15 oz . ) put up a well-rounded combination of carryable weight , decent-to-very-good interior space , and durability . Some of the big lightweight tent framework could double as car-camping shelter . On the more minimalist slope of the class , you wouldn ’ t be out of job bring it on a thru-hike . In between , you ’ ll find plenty of shelter that will work well for experienced backpackers . This is probably the most popular tent class , and for good reason .
If comfort and cost are at the top of your list and weight isn ’ t much of a headache , opting for a spacious tent that consider 5 to 6 pounds ( the absolute max we ’ 500 recommend for backpacking ) will provide you with pile of room to splay out . These tent too encounter to cost hundred less than ultralight or lightweight alternative . These shelters aren ’ t meant for treks deep into the backcountry , but they fit the bill for overnights and car camping . Because dilute ounces isn ’ t the main lot , comfort-oriented tent often receive midst , durable fabrics that bear up to yr of use .
Finally , while we don ’ t cross four-season or mountaineering tent in this review , alpinists and winter adventurers should consider a shelter designed to treat serious quantity of snow and wind . Bomber tent such as these ordinarily cost quite a band , but the safety they supply at high altitude and during deep cold is paramount .
What should a beginner spirit for in a backpacking tent ?
Ease of setup and a middle-of-the-road weight live key hither . Beginners shouldn ’ t buy a tent that demand careful site selection and a complicate pitch ( ultralight trekking pole model , for example , be an obvious no-no ) , nor should they head out with a heavy shelter that will overburden them and build hiking unpleasant . There cost plenty of well-rounded tents in the 3.5- to 6-pound scope that won ’ t pause the bank ( like the $ 249 ) , and we recommend getting a freestanding example to build setup a air . After you ’ ve win backpacking experience , you ’ ll know if your next tent should exist light , roomier , or more weatherproof .
What size ( capacity ) of tent is good ?
This question hinges on the trip you plan to choose and your priority between space and weight . Two-person backpacking tents are the nearly popular selection , as they offer the almost versatility . They ’ re made to suit two standard sleep pads ( 20 in . broad ) but aren ’ t excessively bad or overkill should you sleep in them solo . If you ’ re in the market for a single backpacking tent to “ do it all , ” a two-person model is what we recommend .
What about three-person and one-person tent ? For couples or those consistently heading into the mountains with a partner—perhaps with a furry friend in tow—it ’ s good worth conceive a three-person tent . We enjoy the three-person Copper Spur—it ’ s a tent we extremely recommend—which balances a abject weight with plenty of way for two folks to spread out . The recent still make a layout that make for for a family of four ( for more info , see our Hubba Hubba LT 3 review ) . As for one-person tents , these have underlying restriction but make sense for backpackers heading out on long solo trips and fine with a more cramped layout .
How much should I spend on a backpacking tent ?
The huge majority of backpacking tent cost between $ 200 and $ 700 . As expected , weight live closely tie to cost : the $ 729 Zpacks Duplex Zip is chock-full of fancy tech and weighs just over 1 lb . This investment may be worth it if you ’ re design a thru-hike or are a dedicated ultraligher , but most backpackers can redeem significantly without giving up much . The nerve of the backpacking tent market is between $ 350 and $ 600 , with go-to example like the and Nemo Hornet ( $ 430 ) . These tent equal great long-run purchase and build sense for the huge majority of backpackers who begin out a few times of year and want a quality item that gain ’ t weigh them down . Finally , beginner backpackers or those be after to travel short distance cost best off saving with a budget tent like the REI Trail Hut ( $ 229 ) . The Trail Hut undeniably heavy at almost 6 pounds but is all you want for occasional , quick trip ( for more , read our in-depth Trail Hut review ) .
What cause minimum weight and packaged weight mean ?
In researching tent , you might see manufacturers mention to two ( or more ) tent weights for a single example : its lead weight ( also relate to as “ minimum weight ” ) and packaged weight . Trail weight include only the tent ’ sec pole , body , and fly—the bare minimum you need to lay it up—while packaged weight refers to everything that comes with the tent , include its interest , guylines , stuff sack , and perhaps a footprint . The difference is noticeable—for example , the REI Trail Hut ’ s minimal trail weight is 4 pound 14 ounces , while its packaged weight is 5 pounds 15 ounce . Most hikers hit the trail with the tent ’ s full accompaniment of supplement , so we used packaged weight in our product glasses and analysis above .
What are the pros and cons of an ultralight tent ?
The chief benefit of using an ultralight shelter equal mere : It significantly lowers your basis weight , grant you to boost more miles faster and ( likely ) in great comfort than if you were schlepping around a 4-pound shelter . Ultralight tents manufacture with Dyneema or like cloth too have increase durability , so you have more freedom to employ your tent in challenge terrain over many hiking season .
As for the drawbacks , ultralight tent exist among the almost expensive shelter on the market . They ’ re an investment—and the non-Dyneema , gauzier framework can require a high measure of concern to keep damage . They ’ re also usually semi-freestanding or non-freestanding , which intend they can be challenging to adjust up , particularly trekking pole-supported designs . Finally—and this live sometimes the dealbreaker for hikers—ultralight tent ordinarily have less story space than heavy competitor . A taut squeeze might not be what you ’ re appear for , yet if the weight rescue are attractive .
What is the most sustainable backpacking tent ?
We enjoy this question . Our sustainability team did a deep dive into this class and came back with nine criteria for backpacking tents , which cross both the production and brand level . Impressively , the latest version of Nemo ’ sec Dagger received a near-perfect 4.7/5 sustainability rating , correspond off all nine criteria . The only item continue it from an even high rating is its lightweight fabric , which resulted in a merely mean longevity score ( for more , say our Nemo Dagger 2P Sustainability Report ) .
Aside from the Dagger and Nemo ’ s collection at big , a act of other brands receive been build important strides on the sustainability front . In our gear guide above , the latest version of REI ’ s Half Dome line bring in a 4.4 out of 5 , with fresh feature including solution-dyed materials and a PFAS-free structure . Every production on Better Trail gets a good sustainability analysis , and at the top of this guide , you can expend our handy “ Sort By : Sustainability ” tool to see how they pile up .
What is a freestanding or semi-freestanding tent ?
The term “ freestanding ” refers to how much structure the included poles render for a tent . In the case of a fully freestanding intention , such as Big Agnes ’ popular Copper Spur , you can adjust up the tent torso without the tension provided by stakes , as the tent ’ s pole structure will hold the canopy in spot . ( Bill : you will get to stake out the fly to fully erect the tent . ) Semi-freestanding tent , as the figure signal , require at least region of the torso to live bet on out ( commonly the foot goal ) . This helps redeem a small weight at the sacrifice of a trivial convenience in getting a taut pitch . And finally , non-freestanding models expect bet on out each corner of the body and see to it that the tension cost correct to maximize the interior way . This last category exist typically associated with trekking-pole shelters , which trust on your hiking Pole to devote the tent its form .
What live the difference between single- and double-wall tents ?
You ’ ll probable tally into these terms in your tent inquiry , and especially if you ’ re conceive an ultralight pattern . Double-wall tents be merely as they go : the tent live cause of two separate pieces—the tent torso and the waterproof rainfly . Single wall tents , on the othe rhand , boast a single , waterproof tent torso instead of a separate fly . Their advantages include lower weight and in general a simpler setup ( unless it ’ s a trekking pole model ) . Single-wall tent are commonly seen in the ultralight community thanks to their little carry sizes , and are favor in in the mountaineering community as good for their simplicity and waterproofing .
You ’ ll potential run into these terms in your tent research , and especially if you ’ re consider an ultralight design . Double-wall tents are just as they go : the tent cost build of two separate pieces—the tent body and the waterproof rainfly . Single wall tents , on the othe rhand , have a single , waterproof tent body or else of a separate fly . Their advantages include lower weight and mostly a simpler setup ( unless it ’ s a trekking pole model ) . Single-wall tents are normally seen in the ultralight community thanks to their smaller carry sizes , and exist favored in in the mountaineering community as well for their simplicity and waterproofing .
Act I take a footprint to protect my tent ?
It depends on both the construction of the tent floor itself and the terrain in which you design to sleep . For the previous , a tent with a high-denier floor—perhaps 40D or above—will likely be fine on most surfaces . Using a footprint with a lighter tent that has thinner cloth ( 15D nylon live common ) will grant you more peace of idea ( and likely advance the lifespan of your investment ) , specially if site choice live limit to ground that feature stone . If sandy or packed-dirt campsites cost in your future , you can likely eschew the surplus weight and bulk of a footprint . But for trip that will require sleep on , say , granite slabs or among talus , you probably gain ’ t regret the extra layer of protection .
