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14 Best Tent for Backpacking 2023

Our highly stressful lifestyles make it necessary for us to take breaks. Many like our breaks solo and others enjoy the company of friends and family. Camping is always a fun and relaxing break, be it for an individual or a group. For a good camping trip, excellent equipment and a comfortable campsite are necessary. Moreover, the essential piece of equipment while camping is a backpacking tent.

A good tent is necessary when camping, as it is your only shelter in the open. Therefore, it needs to provide you the essential comfort and protection. Your tent should be following the kind of environment you’re in – cold, warm, rainy, or even foggy. Without the best backpacking tents, your camping trip could be a nightmare.

Your backpacking tent should also be able to accommodate you and your gear, at the least. In summary, it should satisfy most of your needs without breaking your back.

Consider the following factors when buying backpacking tents:

Weight: This is perhaps the most crucial point when it comes to backpacking tents. Buy a tent that is lightweight and easy to fit in your rucksack. You will already have a lot of burden on your back or will have to walk long distances with a moderately sized backpack. A lightweight backpacking tent will surely reduce some of the excess stress.

Storage: The best backpacking tents always come with a lot of storage pockets and loops. When camping, you will need storage sections in your tent to keep things like the flashlight handy. Hence, consider buying a tent that has ample storage options for your gear.

Ventilation: Tents can be suffocating places. It is even more problematic if you’re camping somewhere hot. Hence, invest in a backpacking tent that has ample ventilation. It can be in the form of mesh walls or air vents.

Here is our list of the best backpacking tents to help you make a credible and reliable decision:

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL Backpacking Tent, 2 Person

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall Backpacking Tent is an ultralight backpacking tent. Unique construction is what makes this tent lightweight yet sturdy. This tent is perfect for those camping trips over the weekend. Why? Because its structure makes it easy to pitch and pack. Another cool factor is the ample storage facilities available. Their size and quality make the tent a favorite among buyers. Sturdy tent fabric will make sure that the tent lasts you a long time.

This backpacking tent is a snug fit in your rucksack, allowing you to carry more of other essentials. The oversized door assures good ventilation and ease of getting in and out of the tent. Another great thing about this tent is that it sleeps two people comfortably.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL Backpacking Tent, 2 Person

Key Features

Ventilated construction to maximize airflow in the tent

Single pole architecture for easy pitching and packing

DAC materials make the tent ultra-light

Include rainfly for protection from rain and snow

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Comfortably sleeps for two adults

Ample internal floor space

Lightweight and easy-to-carry

Short guy lines

Cons

Material can tear easily

Zippers can get stuck

Kelty Salida Camping and Backpacking Tent, 2 Person

Next up on our list is the Kelty Salida Camping & Backpacking Tent. The mesh exterior is the highlight of this tent. It takes care of pesky bugs and mosquitoes while giving you a view of the star-studded or moon-lit skies. It has one large door, so getting in and out of the tent won’t be a hassle. This lightweight backpacking tent comes with user-friendly folding poles. These poles allow for ease of pitching.

100% polyester construction makes the tent both durable and lightweight at the same time. Protecting the tent won’t be an issue, thanks to the rain fly that comes with it. The tent’s durable construction ensures that you have a long-lasting piece of camping equipment. Its dome shape provides increased functionality to the user (inside the tent).

Kelty Salida Camping and Backpacking Tent, 2 Person

Key Features

Spacious tent - Can accommodate two people easily

Additional loops along with standard clips and fly

Nylon and polyester provide sturdiness to the tent

Mesh exterior for protection from insects

The tent comes with its carry bag

$79.00

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Easy to pitch construction

Large vestibule for shoes

USB cords adjusting guidelines

Cons

Footprints are sold separately

Featherstone UL Granite 2 Person Backpacking Tent Lightweight, 3-Season, Waterproof for Camping and Hiking - Includes Footprint & Mesh Gear Loft -...

If you want to feel like you’re sleeping under the stars, then Featherstone 2 Person Backpacking Tent should be the product of your choice. The mesh construction of this backpacking tent tackles all ventilation issues. At the same time, the meshed upper area offers a lovely nighttime view of the countryside. Kayaking? Rafting? Hiking? Weekend camping trip? This tent is made to withstand all kinds of environments. All you need to do is just pack and go!

The tent’s construction makes it both lightweight and freestanding. A waterproof rain fly means that you don’t have to worry about your tent getting drenched. Aluminum poles add sturdiness to the tent structure while reducing overall weight. A higher tub provides protection from splatters and moisture getting into the tent floor. Unlike other tents, the footprint is shipped along with the tent.

Featherstone UL Granite 2 Person Backpacking Tent Lightweight, 3-Season, Waterproof for Camping and Hiking - Includes Footprint & Mesh Gear Loft -...

Key Features

Heavy-duty aluminum stakes for pitching the tent

Reflective guy lines for improved nighttime visibility

Spacious tent, comfortably accommodating two persons

Single pole construction for easy pitching

Price not available

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Included footprints and rainfly

Well ventilated

Heavy-duty and tear-resistant fabric

Cons

Lacks internal storage facilities

Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Navy

Are you going to camp somewhere windy? Coleman Sundome Tent 2 Persons is just what you need. A sturdy frame allows this lightweight backpacking tent to withstand strong winds. Ventilation is not a hassle with this tent, thanks to its large windows and ground vents. The good thing about vents is that you can control the amount of air that gets in the tent.

The tent is designed explicitly for warm-weather camping. Take this tent along the next time you plan an adventure to Yosemite or Yellowstone! With storage pockets sewn into the tent interiors, you can easily store all your accessories. Are you carrying electronics with you? Charging won’t be an issue as the tent comes with e-ports attached. Welded seams and corners prevent water and moisture from getting into the tent.

Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Navy

Key Features

Strong frame - Can stand winds up to 35+ mph

Large windows and vents allow for excellent ventilation

Ample storage facilities in the tent interior

Patented WeatherTec System to keep the tent dry

$68.47

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Attached electricity port

Easy to pitch and pack

Sized for a comfortable stay

Cons

Unsuitable for cold climates

Trekker Tent 2.2 Green with Trekking Poles, Two Person Trekking Pole Backpacking Tent

The River County Trekker Tent 2.2 is a rugged, lightweight backpacking tent. This tent is one of the lightest and the most spacious ones in the category, due to its vast dimensions. Large two-sided mesh windows provide ample ventilation in the tent. Since the tent is supplied without any poles, it is easy to store and carry. A snug fit in your backpack, this tent won’t take up much of your space.

The dual-layered design of the tent protects from mosquitoes and other insects. This design also ensures the tent exhibits an appreciated range of durability. As for space, the tent is small but has an excellent floor area that two people can comfortably sleep. It is easy to set up, and any stick or pole longer than 42 inches can be used for the purpose. Lost or broke your tent poles? No worries. Grab some branches and go old-school.

Trekker Tent 2.2 Green with Trekking Poles, Two Person Trekking Pole Backpacking Tent

Key Features

Large dimensions provide ample space when pitched

Lightest tent in the category weighing 3 lbs

2-layer tent offers protection from the elements

Compact size - fits easily without taking much space

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Easy to pitch ( >5 minutes)

Improved material for durability

Ample waterproofing and ventilation

Cons

Trekking poles not included

Big Agnes 2019 Copper Spur HV UL2 Backpacking Tent, Grey/Orange, 2 Person

Big Agnes 2019 Copper Spur Backpacking Tent is the next ultralight backpacking tent on our list. The unique construction of this tent makes it easier to pack. At the same time, the construction also allows for extra space and comfort irrespective of your surface. Avoiding condensation is no big issue in this tent because of mesh gates. Even better, the two-door design makes the tent easy to use. Since the seams on this tent are not easily visible, it portrays a clean and minimalistic design.

Storage is not an issue with this tent due to the different mesh pockets inside the tent. It has oversized mesh pockets and a large pocket on the ceiling for hassle-free storage. The tent also comes with attached storm flaps. These prevent moisture from getting inside the tent through the door or zippers.

Big Agnes 2019 Copper Spur HV UL2 Backpacking Tent, Grey/Orange, 2 Person

Key Features

High volume hub design for added strength

Solvent-free tapes used for waterproofing seams

Spacious due to high volume pole architecture

DAC materials make the tent ultralight

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Easy to pitch

Ample amount of storage

Two doors for excellent ventilation

Attached storm flaps

Cons

Low-quality zippers

Low-quality pole

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent, Without Xtreme Waterproof Coating

The MSR Hubba Hubba Backpacking Tent on our list features a complex product design. This design enables this small tent to provide a spectacular floor area. There are two 8 ft wide vestibules on this backpacking tent. These vestibules will allow you to keep your gear dry and protected. Are you concerned about wear and tear? The premium quality nylon and mesh material will ensure any wear and tear incidents are kept at bay.

As far as space is concerned, the tent can sleep two people. It doesn’t matter if you go camping in the back county or somewhere snowy as this is a 3-season tent, making it suitable for all kinds of environments. Not only that, but it also has a unified pole and hub system. It helps to reduce the number of tools and time you need to pitch the tent drastically.

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent, Without Xtreme Waterproof Coating

Key Features

20D RipStop nylon provides durability

3-Season Tent - Ideal for camping all year

Dura-Shield coating for the effective weatherproofing ability

15D Nylon mesh for sufficient ventilation

Unique construction makes it easy to pitch

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Included guy lines

Spacious floor area

Roll-up vestibule

Cons

Manual seam sealing

Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Green

The Coleman Sundome Tent is durable. Why do we say that? It can withstand strong blows of wind. This tent is small but spacious, thanks to the unique dome shape. Not only that, but the tent is also 7 ft wide when pitched. So, don’t worry about keeping your gear safe and secure as you have plenty of space to avoid crushing your delicate gear. The polyester build contributes to tent durability while shaving off unnecessary pounds from the tent. A hassle-free set up makes this tent a great camping partner.

We all carry some gadgets that need electricity. The attached e-port in the lightweight backpacking tent takes care of that as well. Included rainfly and customized seams make sure you stay dry when it rains, while also protecting your charging devices. Large windows in this tent are something to look for if you’re concerned about ventilation. All these factors make this tent a suitable piece of shelter for camping all year round.

Coleman 2-Person Sundome Tent, Green

Key Features

75D polyester provides durability, reduces weight

Customized corners and seams provide excellent weatherproofing

Can withstand strong winds of up to 35 mph

Large windows keep the tent well ventilated

$50.00

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Large dimensions yet compact

Can be pitched easily

Highly waterproof

Sunroof for great views

Cons

Low-quality stakes

Footprint not included

Kelty Late Start 1 Person - 3 Season Backpacking Tent (2020 Updated Version of Kelty Salida Tent)

Are you planning a solo camping getaway? Then you should surely check out the Kelty Late Start Backpacking Tent! It accommodates just one person, making it perfect for your solo camping adventure. A single 4 ft vestibule provides ample space for your gear. Guy line pockets make organizing all those cables a breeze. This feature comes in handy when you’re all by yourself in the wild. Even the high-peak height makes sure you sit comfortably in your tent.

The tent is supplied with a 68D rainfly for excellent protection against the rains. Sealed seams ensure that no moisture gets in through the nooks and crannies. Pitching this tent won’t be a hassle because of the pre-bent poles. It also has pole pockets that help in pitching the tent. Ceiling pocket in the tent imparts sufficient storage. This lightweight backpacking tent sports a freestanding design making it easy to shift.

Kelty Late Start 1 Person - 3 Season Backpacking Tent (2020 Updated Version of Kelty Salida Tent)

Key Features

No-see mesh walls provide excellent ventilation

68D floor material, water-resistant up to 1800 mm

Kelty Quick Corners for easy tent set up

Pre-bent aluminum poles provide extra space

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Strong tent frame

Perfect for solo campers

Excellent for rainy weather

Cons

Substandard stakes

River Country Products Trekker Tent 2, Trekking Pole Tent, Ultralight Backpacking Tent - Green

The River County Trekker Tent 2 is rugged and yet a lightweight backpacking tent. The best part of this shelter-piece is the size of a junior football it exhibits when packed! It means more space for other camping essentials in your rucksack. Forgot your trekking poles? No worries! Just grab a stick close to 42 inches in height, and your tent is ready! The tent is equipped with loops for flashlights and camping gear, providing sufficient storage.

Weight is not an issue with this ultralight backpacking tent as it weighs just above 2 lbs. The tent stands true to its name, with sufficient space for two people. Fine mesh is sewn on both tent walls, providing excellent ventilation. The mesh also doubles up as an insect shield.

Bright colored stakes and guy lines make it easy to pitch in the dark. It is a 3-season tent, making it suitable for camping in all kinds of weather.

River Country Products Trekker Tent 2, Trekking Pole Tent, Ultralight Backpacking Tent - Green

Key Features

Weighs 2.12 lbs with guy lines and stakes

7 ft wide - comfortable for two people

Ideal for all kinds of weather

Back vents provide sufficient ventilation

$64.95

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Compact and lightweight

High-quality stakes

Ample storage facilities

Cons

No rainfly is provided

Kelty Dirt Motel 3 Person Lightweight Backpacking and Camping Tent (Updated Version of Kelty TN Tent) - 2 Vestibule Freestanding Design - Stargazing...

The Kelty Dirt Motel Lightweight Backpacking Tent should be your go-to tent if you are camping in a group of 3 people. This lightweight backpacking tent has a mesh design and thus gives you the best possible ventilation along with starlit sky views. Two doors make the tent easy to use for three people. Unique construction makes it spacious while providing sturdiness to the tent. It ships with a rainfly for added weather protection.

The rain fly also has a unique roll-up system. This system does not let the rainfly obstruct your view of the starry night sky. You can quickly shift the pitched tent to your desired location, due to its freestanding structure. Besides, Sil-Nylon construction provides extra durability while reducing any unnecessary weight. Vertically spacious, you and your friends can comfortably sit in the tent. Also, no more moisture troubles as the waterproof tent floor are moisture-resistant.

Kelty Dirt Motel 3 Person Lightweight Backpacking and Camping Tent (Updated Version of Kelty TN Tent) - 2 Vestibule Freestanding Design - Stargazing...

Key Features

DAC poles make the tent lightweight

Color-coded poles provide an easy installation process

70D polyurethane-coated waterproof tent floor

Vertical walls for increased overall living space

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Spacious vestibules for gear

Durable roll-up rainfly

Included carry bag

Cons

No stakes included

MSR Elixir 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

Another 3-Person tent on our list is the MSR Elixir 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent. This lightweight backpacking tent has color-coded grommets, poles, and clips. This feature makes the tent simple to pitch for the most inexperienced campers. No need to worry about space as it has a big-enough vestibule. The rainfly is adaptable, which means you won’t have to compromise on the views of the night sky. To your relief, there is ample headroom to ensure a comfortable shelter for two campers.

Guy lines and footprints are supplied with the tent for lesser complexities in terms of usage flexibility. Hence, no need to waste time looking for the right tools. Two doors make the tent easy to use and enhance ventilation. A combination of mesh and solid fabric panels makes it suitable for both warm and cold climates.

MSR Elixir 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

Key Features

Unique construction for increased headspace and floor area

Color-coded supplies for easy pitching of the tent

Combined mesh and solid material provides warmth and ventilation

Glow in the dark zippers are added for uniqueness

$342.51

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Included Footprint

Unique rainfly aids ventilation

Sufficient storage

Cons

Insufficient ventilation

Nemo Hornet Elite Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Elite Marigold, 2 Person

If you are looking for a tent with a minimalistic design, then Nemo Hornet Ultralight Backpacking Tent is your product of choice. The large door and vestibules make the tent compatible for people of all sizes. The vestibules also provide additional space for your camping gear. The Nemo is a genuinely ultralight backpacking tent, weighing a little over 1 pound! If you have any back issues, then this could turn out to be a health-friendly solution.

The rainfly material is an ultra0fine 7D RipStop nylon, thus ensuring a long life. Silicone water repellent ensures excellent waterproofing for seams and the overall tent. The unique Flybar system keeps the tent small but provides a large floor area and headspace. It makes the tent suitable for two people. Moreover, special flashlight pockets on the ceiling help in lighting up your tent at night. Even the roof and walls provide excellent ventilation, while also allowing you to enjoy the surreal scenery.

Nemo Hornet Elite Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Elite Marigold, 2 Person

Key Features

Extremely lightweight, weighing just over a pound.

High-quality RipStop rainfly for weatherproofing

Special Flybar design for increased space

White mesh panels provide security and privacy

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Vestibules for extra space

Excellent ventilation

Two-door design

Cons

Insufficient storage facilities

Outdoor Vitals Dominion 2 Person Backpacking Tent with Footprint

The last tent on our list is the Outdoor Vitals Dominion Ultralight Backpacking Tent. The best part about this tent is that it comes replete with all the necessary tools. Hence, you do not have to waste time and money looking for the right accessories. A combination of DAC poles and Sil-Nylon materials helps to reduce the weight of the tent.

The unique single pole system makes the tent easy to pitch and that too in several ways. Ditch the tent body and use the footprint for an ultralight backpacking tent. It also makes the tent easy to carry. High-quality YKK zippers will fasten the doors in all weather conditions while lasting you a long time. Also, the modular design makes the tent spacious and suitable for two people. It also has undergone silicone treatment to provide excellent waterproofing while reducing overall tent weight.

Outdoor Vitals Dominion 2 Person Backpacking Tent with Footprint

Key Features

Can be pitched with or without tent body

15D RipStop fabric reduces weight, adds durability

Single pole design for an easy setup

Wide crossbar provides extra elbow room

$269.97

Buy on Amazon

Pros

Excellent silicone waterproofing

Weighs only 2 pounds

Included accessories and footprint

Cons

Insufficient ventilation

FAQ for Backpacking Tents

Q.

How big of a tent should I buy?

A.

Backpacking tents are sold in sizes that can sleep 1, 2, or even 3 people. However, the kind of tent you buy is entirely dependent upon your needs. If you are a solo camper, buying a 1-Person tent is enough. However, things are different if you’re camping with your friends or your partner. You can choose between a 2 or 3 person tent in such cases.

Q.

What accessories are included with the backpacking tent?

A.

The accessories supplied vary from one seller to the other. However, a basic rainfly is shipped with nearly all backpacking tents. Many tents also supply Guy lines, stakes, and even footprints. The problem with supplied accessories is that they are often of substandard quality. You must purchase essential accessories separately. They should not be a parameter for the tent’s quality.

Q.

How do I waterproof my tent?

A.

Backpacking tents today are constructed with polyester and nylon. These materials are somewhat water-resistant. A rainfly also serves as an additional waterproofing feature. For extra waterproofing, you can seal the seams of your tent. Also, buy a tent, which has a waterproof coating on it.

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