• START HERE
  • The Blog
    • [Menu Segment Blog 1]
  • Destinations
    • [Menu Segment Destinations]
  • Gear
    • [Menu Segment Gear Guide]
  • Photography
    • [Menu Segment]
  • Resources
    • [Column]
      • Travel Resources
      • Carry On Luggage Size Chart
      • Camping Checklist
      • RV Camping Checklist
  • About
    • [Column]
      • [Custom]
      • Contact Us
      • Work With Us
      • Media Kit
      • WordPress Development & Optimization
      • Privacy Policy
    • [Column]
  • Search
    • [Custom]
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • START HERE
  • The Blog
      • Latest Articles
          • backpacking in the pacific northwest What’s in my Camera Bag? A Photography Gear Guide!
          • The Amazing Village of Riomaggiore in Italy Six Stunning Destinations to Visit where it’s Not Crowded
          • la paz mexico Peace in La Paz, Mexico – Personal Musings of A Gringo
          • where to stay in buenos aires argentina Where To Stay In Buenos Aires | The Best Places and Neighborhoods
          • Georgia Georgia Travel Guide: The Shangri-La of Caucasus
          • paris attraction Where To Stay In Paris | The Best Neighborhoods
          • best lenses for sony a6000 The Best Lenses for Sony a6000 Series (a6300, a6500, and a6400)
          • view of lake como Lake Como Things To Do, Where to Stay, and Where To Eat!
      • Adventures
          • Always Wanderlust Chasing Japow in Hakuba image 8 Hakuba Japan Snowboarding (JaPow)
          • Torres Del Paine Torres Del Paine Circuit: The Botched “Q” Trek
          • Sandboard Sandboarding San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
          • resolution Hiking Hermannsdalstinden Summit in Moskenes Norway
          • Machu Picchu How To Explore Machu Picchu via the Inca Jungle Trek
          • View Of The Carpathians Trekking the Seven Ladders Canyon in Romania
          • belgradefromriversava A Day in Belgrade: A Hitchhiking Journey to the Balkan Gate
          • Atacama Desert Chile San Pedro by Mountain Bike Exploring the Valle de la Luna in the Atacama Desert by Mountain Bike
        • View More >>
      • One Day In
          • Port Townsend Things To Do In Port Townsend | Washington’s Victorian Seaport
          • Mount Shuksan reflecting on Picture Lake during sunset. Picture Lake & Mount Shuksan A Photographer’s Dream Come True
          • Nusfjord Grand View Nusfjord | Exploring A Rustic Fishing Village in Lofoten, Norway
          • Bodie-Ghost-Town Bodie – Exploring California’s Most Famous Ghost Town
          • Kostel-svatého-Jiljí A Day in Poprad: Things to Do
          • Ecuador-Mitad-del-Mundo-11-copy Excuse me. Will the Real Mitad del Mundo Please Stand Up?
          • budapest sights fisherman's bastion view of the parliament Exploring Buda – The Classy Half of Budapest
          • A Day in Eger: Of Turks, Castles, Beautiful Women, and Wine A Day in Eger: Of Turks, Castles, Beautiful Women, and Wine
        • View More >>
      • Travel Tips
          • anxiety and travel how to overcome Travel Anxiety: What are the Pre-Trip Jitters & How Can We Tame Them?
          • Buenos Aires Congresso de la Nacion Argentina Travel Guide | By Car, Train, or Foot (How to Do it Right)
          • might travels premium How to Catch Mistake Fares & Save $190 (on Average) on Tickets
          • travel budget How To Have A Travel Budget – Realistic Plan You Can Stick To
          • rv checklist RV Camping Essentials – With Printable Checklist!
          • camping checklist Camping Checklist – Printable Supplies Packing List
          • Travel and Sex – How to “Get it On” Safely Travel and Sex – How to “Get it On” Safely
          • Best Gifts for travelers Best Gifts for Travelers – 38 Unique Gift Ideas
        • View More >>
      • Technology
          • might travels premium How to Catch Mistake Fares & Save $190 (on Average) on Tickets
          • Steemit Blogging Steemit Review – An Honest Take After Six Months of Travel Blogging
          • Flight app The Best Flight Booking Apps To Find Cheap Airfare
          • Welcome Google My Maps How To Plan Your Epic Travel Adventure with Google My Maps
          • Always Wanderlust Google Project Fi to South America and Beyond Google Project Fi to South America and Beyond
          • how to book flights with google ita matrix How To Find Cheap Flight Deals With Google ITA Matrix
        • View More >>
      • Funny Stories
          • Chicken Bus An Unforgettable Ride on the Chicken Bus to Argentina
          • Goats Norway My Near Death Experience with Goats in Norway
          • woman of my dreams japan How I Met the Woman of My Dreams in Japan
          • Code-5150 Code 5150 (a hiccup on the way to the airport)
          • Human Body Cast in Pompeii One Day in Pompeii | Do-It-Yourself Or With A Tour
          • Always Wanderlust Lost in Translation, Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival image 6 Drunk and Lost in Translation at the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival
          • Reine Reflection Detained For Drugs In Norway
          • Always Wanderlust Steak Americain, A Challenge In Palate image 3 Steak Americain, A Challenge In The Palate
        • View More >>
      • Activities
        • Atacama Desert Chile San Pedro by Mountain Bike Cycling
        • 5 of the most breathtaking hikes in norway Trekking
        • Source: Pixabay Camping
        • Always Wanderlust Chasing Japow in Hakuba image 10 Snowboarding
        • off-grid campervan Road Trips
  • Destinations
      • Romania
        • Travel Photo – Medieval Passage in Sibiu, Romania
        • Travel Photo – Sibiu Rooftops, Romania
        • Alba Iulia: Home of Alba Fest and Alba Carolina
        • Travel Photo – Haystacks In Romania. Breb, Maramures.
      • Norway
        • Lofoten Rorbuer | Why You Should Stay in One
        • A Comprehensive Guide to the 5 Scandinavian Capitals
        • Detained For Drugs In Norway
        • Kjeåsen Mountain Farm, Norway
      • Slovakia
        • A Day in Poprad: Things to Do
        • Novy Most – Bridge of the Slovak National Uprising
        • Trencin, Slovakia in Pictures
        • The Best Ways to Explore Europe
      • Hungary
        • A Day in Szentendre: A Stone’s Throw from Budapest
        • Exploring Buda – The Classy Half of Budapest
        • The Best Spots To Take Photos In Budapest
        • A Day in Eger: Of Turks, Castles, Beautiful Women, and Wine

      • Europe
          • France
            • My First Couchsurfing Experience (In Paris) And It Was Epic
            • From London to Paris: Cross-Channel Adventure
            • Here’s Why You Should Visit Paris with the Kids
            • La Meije (3984 m) : All You Need To Know About Climbing
            • Where To Stay In Paris | The Best Neighborhoods
          • Spain
            • A Day in San Sebastian: Pintxos Hopping
            • What To Do With A Day in Barcelona
            • How to Enjoy Costa del Sol on a Budget ​
            • Beaches & Culture: 5 Interesting Destinations You Need to Visit
            • Unraveling the Roots of the Catalan Culture
          • Italy
            • Tuscan Commune
            • One Day in Pompeii | Do-It-Yourself Or With A Tour
            • Lake Como Things To Do, Where to Stay, and Where To Eat!
          • United Kingdom
            • From London to Paris: Cross-Channel Adventure
            • ESTA Visa Waiver – The Best Way for Brits to Travel to the US
            • Adventures in the UK: So Much More Than Just Cities
          • Albania
            • The Search for Ura e Brarit: The Old Ottoman Bridge (Tirana, Albania)
            • Ebu Bekr – Xhamia Ebu Beker (Mosque in Shkoder, Albania)
            • The Pyramid of Tirana – Secrets of the Enver Hoxha Pyramid
          • Greece
            • A Day in the Ancient City of Delphi
            • Here are 5 of the Best Islands to Visit around the World
          • View More >>
      • North America
          • United States
            • Thousand Island Lake Loop Trek And A Thousand Mosquitoes
            • Lost Coast: Hiking California’s Most Rugged Coastline
            • Amazing Discovery: Eastern California Museum
            • 25 Pictures that Will Inspire You to Visit the California Coast
            • North Lake Autumn, Eastern Sierras
            • Autumn Wine Bounty, Napa Valley
          • California
            • Thousand Island Lake Loop Trek And A Thousand Mosquitoes
            • Lost Coast: Hiking California’s Most Rugged Coastline
            • Amazing Discovery: Eastern California Museum
            • 25 Pictures that Will Inspire You to Visit the California Coast
            • North Lake Autumn, Eastern Sierras
            • Autumn Wine Bounty, Napa Valley
          • Washington
            • Sunset Over Seattle
            • Larrabee State Park in Washington State
            • Tipsoo Lake
            • Anacortes from Mt. Erie
            • Palouse Falls in Washington State
            • The Chinook Pass in The Fall
          • Oregon
            • Why America’s West Coast Makes A Great Vacation
          • Virginia
            • 3 Interesting Reasons To Visit Virginia
          • Florida
            • The Top 10 Best and Must-Do Miami Tours for Under $100
          • View More >>
      • South America
          • Argentina
            • Travel Photo – Buenos Aires at Night
            • Top 5 Things To Do In Cafayate, Argentina That Won’t Break Your Bank
            • Cycling The Quebrada de Cafayate On A Dilapidated Mountain Bike
            • An Unforgettable Ride on the Chicken Bus to Argentina
            • Places In South America To Include In Your Bucket List
            • Argentina Travel Guide | By Car, Train, or Foot (How to Do it Right)
          • Peru
            • 10 Reasons Why You Should Explore and Visit Arequipa Peru
            • I Got Scammed At Sacsayhuaman In Cusco, Peru!
            • How To Explore Machu Picchu via the Inca Jungle Trek
            • Skip Puno go to Copacabana
            • Places In South America To Include In Your Bucket List
          • Chile
            • Torres Del Paine Circuit: The Botched “Q” Trek
            • Sandboarding San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
            • Exploring the Valle de la Luna in the Atacama Desert by Mountain Bike
            • Places In South America To Include In Your Bucket List
          • Bolivia
            • A Day In Isla Del Sol: Exploring Lake Titicaca’s Famous Island
            • Top 6 Things to See and Do in Copacabana Bolivia
            • Skip Puno go to Copacabana
          • Ecuador
            • Excuse me. Will the Real Mitad del Mundo Please Stand Up?
          • View More >>
      • Asia
          • Japan
            • Hakuba Japan Snowboarding (JaPow)
            • Riding Japan’s Mythical Powder Paradise (Niseko Snowboarding)
            • One Day in Sapporo: Ramen Hopping
            • Kyoto Photo Teaser
            • Drunk and Lost in Translation at the Nozawa Onsen Fire Festival
            • How I Met the Woman of My Dreams in Japan
          • Southeast Asia
            • Top Reasons To Go On A Solo Southeast Asia Trip
            • Bali – The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
            • Here are 5 of the Best Islands to Visit around the World
            • Beaches & Culture: 5 Interesting Destinations You Need to Visit
          • Indonesia
            • Bali – The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
            • Here are 5 of the Best Islands to Visit around the World
            • Beaches & Culture: 5 Interesting Destinations You Need to Visit
          • Philippines
            • 5 Reasons Why El Nido, Palawan is the Ultimate Destination for Island Hoppers
            • Beaches & Culture: 5 Interesting Destinations You Need to Visit
          • India
            • Beaches & Culture: 5 Interesting Destinations You Need to Visit
          • Sri Lanka
            • Here are 5 of the Best Islands to Visit around the World
          • View More >>
  • Gear
      • What’s in my Camera Bag?
      • Photography Gear
          • backpacking in the pacific northwest What’s in my Camera Bag? A Photography Gear Guide!
          • best lenses for sony a6000 The Best Lenses for Sony a6000 Series (a6300, a6500, and a6400)
          • mirrorless camera seattle travel The Best Travel Camera & How to Choose in 2020
          • how to choose the best DSLR for travel How to Choose the Best DSLR Camera for Travel in 2020
          • Belltown Seattle at night The Best Canon Lenses for Travel – Epic Guide For EF and EF-S Mount
          • dog leash How to Choose the Best Camera Bag in 2020 (Epic Guide!)
          • best point and shoot camera for travel How to Choose the Best Point and Shoot Camera for Travel in 2020
          • best mirrorless camera for travel The Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel | How to Choose in 2020
        • View More >>
      • Adventure Gear
          • carry on size chart Carry On Luggage Size Chart – 180 Airlines International/Domestic
          • traveling with your dog The Best Accessories for Traveling with Your Dog
          • best carry on luggage The Best Carry On Luggage in 2020 – Epic Guide for Any Traveler
          • best travel backpack How to Choose the Best Travel Backpack – Guide for Any Traveler in 2020
          • Best Gifts for travelers Best Gifts for Travelers – 38 Unique Gift Ideas
          • travel apps 23 Best Travel Apps You Will Use and Continue Using Through 2023
          • Flight app The Best Flight Booking Apps To Find Cheap Airfare
          • Always Wanderlust Essential Ultralight Travel Gear for the Adventure Traveler
        • View More >>
      • Outdoor Gear
          • hiking gear list Hiking Gear List – What to Bring Hiking?
          • camping outdoors 16 Must Have Camping Accessories For Your Backcountry Adventure
          • 4 person tent guide Guide to the Best 4 Person Tent for Camping and Backpacking
          • best hiking shoes Top 10 Best Hiking Shoes For Men & Women in 2020
          • best 10 man tent for camping The Best 10 Person Tents For Camping And How To Choose in 2020
          • camping tent The Best 6 Person Tents For Camping And How To Choose in 2020
          • 8 man tent and how to choose The Best 8 Person Tents For Camping and How to Choose in 2020
          • backpacking tents Top 10 Best Backpacking Tents And How To Choose In 2020
        • See More >>
      • Shop Our Favorite Gear
  • Photography
      • Hungary Gallery
      • Albania Gallery
      • North America Gallery
      • Ecuador Gallery
      • Europe Gallery
      • Central America Gallery
      • South America Gallery
      • Asia Gallery
    • View More >>

      • Photography Tips
          • Exposed Boulders on Lake Tahoe's Shore Best Photo Locations in Lake Tahoe | Nevada & California
          • Headshot Photography 101: How To Take Great Selfie Headshots While Traveling Headshot Photography 101: How To Take A Good Selfie While Traveling
          • traveling pet corgi How To Take Traveling Pet Portraits That You Can Keep Forever
          • The Blue Hour in Budapest, Hungary The Best Spots To Take Photos In Budapest
      • Free Travel Photos
          • sony lens on golden hour 20 FREE High Resolution Travel and Landscape Photos!
          • Cluj-Napoca, Romania Free Travel Photo – Cluj-Napoca, Romania
          • Medellin Colombia Free Travel Photo – Medellin Colombia
          • Old Town Tallinn Estonia Free Travel Photo – Old Town Tallinn Estonia
        • View More >>
      • Photo Essays
          • Europe-Albania-Tirana-1854 The Pyramid of Tirana – Secrets of the Enver Hoxha Pyramid
          • Washtingon Snoqualmie Falls Snoqualmie Falls in Washington State
          • Exposed Boulders on Lake Tahoe's Shore Best Photo Locations in Lake Tahoe | Nevada & California
          • A cool sunset at Camano Island State Park Camano Island State Park | An Awesome Campground
        • View More >>
      • Featured Travel Photos
          • mount baker seattle space needle Photo of the Day – Seattle Space Needle & Mount Baker
          • Chinook pass with Lucky the Corgi Dog Photos of the Day – A Man and His Best Friend
          • Photo of the Day – Tirana (Albania) Skyline
          • Meteora floating monastery Monastery of Rousanou Photos of the Day – Rousanou Monastery of Meteora
        • View More >>
      • Fine Art Prints For Sale
      • Photography Portfolio
  • Resources
      • Travel Resources
      • Carry On Luggage Size Chart
      • Camping Checklist
      • RV Camping Checklist
  • About
      • always wanderlust logo
      • Contact Us
      • Work With Us
      • Media Kit
      • WordPress Development & Optimization
      • Privacy Policy

Top 10 Best Backpacking Tents And How To Choose In 2020


This post will likely contain affiliate links that will help me get a Venti Cappuccino at Starbucks. I know you’re an enabler and not helping with my caffein addiction, but it’s so damn good I can’t stop. You should try with a sprinkle of vanilla!


What’s the best backpacking tent?

Backpacking tents come in different styles and technologies. Having the right one is a necessity, but not all are created equal, nor a perfect one size fits all. As many experienced adventurers know, having the right equipment is essential to any outdoor activities like backcountry backpacking or multiple-day hikes.

Finding the right backpacking tent is never an easy job. There are so many options out there that you can get lost in the sea of brands and products. If you often find yourself in this kind of situation, then today is your lucky day. That’s because we’ve done all the possible research for you and have compared dozens of products from all of the top brands.

We at Always Wanderlust have combined decades of backcountry and long-term backpacking experience. We’ve braved the elements. We’ve climbed mountains, and we’re here to take the guesswork out of choosing the best tent for you.

We’ve handpicked a few tents worth mentioning to make this top 10 list. You won’t have to worry about picking or searching for the right tent because we’ve already done the research for you.

Here are our picks for the Top 10 Tents for Backpacking or any Adventures for that matter.


Tarptent ProTrail | Best thru-hiking tent
ZPacks Duplex | Best Ultralight Tent
HyperLite Mountain Gear Echo II | Best Solo Ultralight
Marmot Tungsten | Best Budget Ultralight
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | Best For Taller Individuals
NEMO Hornet 2 | Best All-Rounder
Kelty Salida 2 | Best 2 Person Budget Tent
MSR Hubba Hubba NX | Best 3-4 Person Tent
Gossamer Gear The Two | Best Non-Freestanding
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 | Best 2 Person Ultralight
How to Choose a Backpacking Tent | Best For You


tarptent pro trail

STAY LIKE A LOCAL!
Do you want to know how to make travel (especially long-term) interesting? Stay like a local! To experience a place like a local rather than a tourist gives a whole new dimension to any adventure. I use Airbnb to rent anything from a room to an entire house. If that's not attractive enough, how about $55 off your first stay via Airbnb?
$55 Off Airbnb

Tarptent ProTrail (2 Person Backpacking Tent)

Tarptent is known for and very good at making durable and light backpacking tents. They use specialized materials like Silnylon (a blend of nylon and silicone) to make their tents. You can tell by the name of the company that they have made use of the simple tarp in order to come up with a minimal and functional tent with lots of space and little clutter.

Specifications

  • It has a minimum trail weight of 6lbs.
  • Size dimensions are 82 x 42 x 45 inches (L x W x H).
  • The internal height of the ceiling is 45 inches.
  • It is available in two sizes: 1-Person & 2-Person.

Main Features

This is a 3-season tent, meaning it can be used in hot, humid or cold weather. It has one door/vestibule, and the walls are single-sheets. The best features of this tent are that it’s ultralight, very spacious, and extremely durable.

The tent uses 30d Silnylon, which is a sturdy and durable silicone despite being extremely light. The high ceiling gives you plenty of room in the tent to do much more than just lie down in.

The internal mesh screen has a bit of tension to it, which prevents moisture from finding its way in and ruining your gear. Although this tent is not freestanding and doesn’t come with poles, there aren’t many stakes needed to set it up. This leads to more comfortable and hassle-free pitching.

SEE IT AT TARPTENT


ZPacks Duplex (1 to 4 Person Backpacking Tent)

ZPacks have done it again with one of their highly-rated products, the ZPacks Duplex. This tent offers all superior qualities while being ultra-light and extremely functional. The tent is made from heavy-duty construction materials that make it stand up to just about anything. Whether you’re braving strong winds or heavy rains, this tent can handle it all. That’s because the Duplex is made of high-quality DCF fabric that is light, wear-resistant, and waterproof. It also doesn’t sag down like the other tents in this range.

Specifications:

  • Its minimum trail weight is 1.3lbs (without poles).
  • It has size dimensions of 90 x 45 x 48 inches.
  • It comes in 4 sizes: 1P, 1P Tall, 2P, and 3P.

Main Features

This, too, is a 3-season tent, and similar to the ProTrail has single-sheet walls. It has two doors/vestibules. Duplex is the best choice for long-distance thru-hiking. It’s not all good, though. There are some minor downsides to the Duplex. Because the fabric is ultra-light, it brings in some side effects, like being a little more expensive than your average tent. It also means you’re only going to get a single-wall tent, which isn’t great for handling condensation and moisture buildup.

The Duplex isn’t a freestanding tent, which means you’ll have to spend some extra time and effort setting it up. But despite these setbacks, this is still a perfectly viable choice for anyone looking to go backpacking on a weight limit.

SEE IT AT ZPACKS


hyperlite echo (best backpacking tents)

HyperLite Mountain Gear Echo II

HyperLite is best known for its range of ultralight backpacking tents and camping equipment. They make hundreds of different tents along with their many product lines. But one of their most renowned and well-known product ranges is the shelter series. The Echo II provides immensely great value with great functionality. While most backpacking tents of this size will be tapered off to maintain balance, this isn’t the case with the Echo II. The tent is roomy enough for you to be able to feel the most comfortable.

Specifications

  • It has a minimum trail weight of 1.8 pounds.
  • Size dimensions are 84 x 52/44 x 41 inches.
  • It comes in two sizes: 1P & 2P.

Main Features

This tent is a 3-season tent and has doubled walls and 2 doors. It is a freestanding tent so you won’t have to spend extra time keeping it upright. The great thing about the double-wall design of this tent is the amount of flexibility. The outer tarp and the inner insert can be used independently. You can remove the insert if you’re in hotter and humid climates. But if you’re camping out in the cold, the insert can come in handy to insulate you and keep out the cold.

It’s very stylish and sleek, which makes it stand out. It has great space-compartmentalization. The only thing that manages to stand out as a setback is a fact that the price is a little steep for what it offers.

SEE IT AT BACKCOUNTRY.COM


marmot tungsten

Marmot Tungsten (2 to 3 Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent)

The Marmot Tungsten 2P UL provides the best value for money in our book. It manages to balance great features at a decent price point. It’s made out of durable polyester rainfly. This material is very light and doesn’t sag. Setting up this tent is ridiculously easy, and you can easily open and close the zipper doors without any hassle. It has a decent-sized floor space, which makes it easy for you to be able to fit inside.

Specifications

  • Its minimum trail weight is 3.25 pounds.
  • Size Dimensions: 88 x 54/46 x 42 inches (wider at the head, narrower at foot).
  • It comes in two sizes: 2P and 3P.

Main Features

If you’re on a budget and require most features and lots of interior space, then this is the best choice. It’s a 3-season tent with double walls, two doors and freestanding.

While there are some problems with the tent, like an uneven frame, it’s still a viable option. For backpackers on a budget, this provides the best middle ground for functionality and durability without burning a hole in the pocket.

SEE IT AT BACKCOUNTRY.COM


sixmoon lunar solo

Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo (1 Person Backpacking Tent)

If you’re in the market for something new and unique, the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo is the answer for you. At just $200, it’s cheap enough for just about anyone to get an ultra-light style for an affordable price. This tent has a unique shape when you have it pitched up. The only setback for having this kind of unique design is the fact that you can only fit one person into it. But even then, there’s plenty of space if you want to drag in a ton of gear. The floor space is pentagonal, and the vestibule is large enough to hold your backpacks and gear.

Specifications

  • Minimum trail weight: 2lb 26oz
  • Size Dimensions: 88 x 54/46 x 42 inches (asymmetrical triangle-shaped top, the pentagonal shape at the base).
  • It is a 1-person tent. No more sizes are available.

Main Features

It is a 3-season tent with double walls, one door/vestibule. Although it is a non-freestanding tent, it only requires one pole to stand it upright.

The side door is easy to access, and you can move in and out of the tent easily. It also opens up really wide so you can vent the air in hotter climates. And if you happen to be caught in the rain, the bathtub-style floor and the wide side door will make the water drain out quickly.

This one too is a great choice for people on a budget looking for lightweight backpacking tents with enough interior space for one person.

SEE IT AT GARAGE GROWN GEAR


NEMO Hornet 2 (best backpacking tents)

NEMO Hornet 2 (2 Person Backpacking Tent)

Nemo is known for making high-quality lightweight tents for all kinds of purposes. The Nemo Hornet 2P is a great tent from one of their premier product lines. It has an igloo-like shape where there are a small narrow opening and a dome shape for the actual tent area. The one problem with this is that the dome shape is slanted inwards, which limits your usable space. Despite that, you can fit two people comfortably. The slanted shape works great for colder climates where you would want to have less room to keep the heat contained.

Specifications

  • It has a minimum trail weight of 2 pounds.
  • Dimensions: 85 x 51/43 x 40 inches (wider at the head, narrower at foot).
  • Four sizes are available: 1P, 2P, Elite 1P, and Elite 2P

Main Features

It is a 3-season tent with double walls, two doors and is ultralight. Setting the tent up can be a bit of a pain considering its an awkward design that sits somewhere between non-freestanding and freestanding (semi-freestanding).

You have to put up two poles to pitch it up because of that. It’s not the ideal situation if you’re trying to put it up on anything other than a smooth surface. Barring that, you have a pretty decent ultralight tent that can work great for solo situations.

SEE IT AT REI


kelty salida

Kelty Salida 2 (2 Person 3 Season Backpacking Tent)

Maybe you’re on a pretty tight budget, and spending several hundreds of dollars is not the ideal situation. At a budget-friendly cost of just $150, this tent is a shoo-in for a great beginner tent. It’s simple enough that you don’t have to worry about all the technical aspects. All you have to do is set up a tent and enjoy your trip with comfort.

Specifications

  • The minimum trail weight is 3lb 14oz.
  • Dimensions: 88 x 54/46 x 42 inches (standard parabolic shape).
  • Available sizes: 1P & 2P

Main Features

It is a 3-season, double-walled tent, has one door/vestibule, and is freestanding.

Setting up can be a little intimidating for some people, but it’s the perfect primer to learning about everything involved in backpacking. While this tent is freestanding, you still have to set up the outer tarp with pegs in the ground. Despite that, the inner part of the tent is completely freestanding, so setup is relatively minimal.

If you’re just starting out on your camping and backpacking trips, this is the perfect option for you. With a great balance of cost, convenience, and ease of setup, there aren’t many better options out there.

SEE IT AT AMAZON


msr hubba nx backpacking tents

MSR Hubba Hubba NX (1 – 4 Person Backpacking Tent)

If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX might just be the option for you. Remarkably designed from the ground up. Everything from the material to the fabric and the construction of the tent is decently constructed.

Specifications

  • Minimum trail weight: 3lb 7oz
  • Dimensions: 84 x 50 x 39 inches
  • Available sizes: 1P, 2P, 3P & 4P

Main Features

This 3-season tent has double walls, two doors, and is freestanding.

The tent’s symmetrical design is complemented by its flower petal style tent fabric. It makes the inside roomy and comfortable. The material is fully waterproof and has a thick consistency to it. This means that anything from strong winds to heavy rains, and even snow, won’t bother you.

A side effect of such a fabric that the MSR Hubba Hubba NX weighs more than the average tent. But for the superior durability and comfort, it’s a small price to pay.

SEE IT AT AMAZON


backpacking tents

Gossamer Gear The Two (1 – 2 Person Ultralight Tent)

Gossamer Gear is known for making superb designs that work well for any occasion. They make all kinds of backpacking tents for all sorts of people and all kinds of situations. The Gossamer Gear II is no exception; it’s a well-built and reliable tent with an exceptional design that makes it versatile enough to be used for just about any situation.

Specifications

  • Minimum trail weight: 1 lb 8.9 oz (with six stakes)
  • Size Dimensions: 88 x 36 x 46 inches
  • Available sizes: 1P & 2P

Main Features

It is a 3-season tent with double walls and two doors and is non-freestanding.

The Gossamer Gear The Two stays true to its roots by incorporating a standard triangular V-shaped design. While this does mean that you might have to spend time and effort setting it up, it has its benefits too. You get a solid, well-built tent ready to tackle anything thrown at it. It has excellent storage, excellent ventilation, and above all, a very reliable design.

There isn’t much that can be said for other tents that are in the same category as the Gossamer Gear II. It’s a tried, tested and true tent that doesn’t fail you.

SEE IT AT GOSSAMER GEAR


big agnes tiger wall backpacking tents

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 (2 to 3 Person Ultralight Tent)

Big Agnes is no stranger to making high-quality tents that stand the test of time. Their line of ultralight tents is some of the most popular and in-demand products out there. The Tiger Wall UL2 is one of the company’s bestselling products, and it’s not really hard to see why.

Built from the coattails of the Big Agnes Copper Spur and the Fly Creek design, the Tiger Wall UL2 takes it all to another level. It combines all the functional elements from both these models and elevates it further. The Big Agnes takes the stylish appearance of the Copper Spur but reducing the weight of the tent at the same time. It borrows the intricate pole structure of the Fly Creek but manages to squeeze in more interior space than you could ever get.

Specifications

  • Minimum trail weight: 2lb 3oz
  • Size Dimensions: 86 x 52/42 x 39 inches (wider at the head, narrower at foot)
  • Available sizes: 2P & 3P

Main Features

It is a 3-season tent with double walls, two doors/vestibules, and is semi-freestanding (you require some work to pinch it up straight, but not much).

SEE IT AT AMAZON


How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tents

Despite what you may have heard, buying a tent can be quite challenging if you have no prior experience. Even seasoned and veteran backpackers often have to debate over the kind of tent they will need to fulfill their requirements. Getting the right specifications, you need to have a balancing act and one that requires careful consideration. With that in mind, we’ve listed below some of the aspects that you need to keep in mind when shopping for a tent. This will also help you narrow down your choices from the above-mentioned candidates.

Weight

The last thing you need on a backpacking trip is to have more weight tugging on your shoulders. While most tents are light enough not to add a significant impact, that’s not always the case. There are many tents out there that are quite heavy and do not fare well for hiking and backpacking. Less weight also means that you have more room for other things like supplies, gear, utilities, food, and extra pairs of clothes. Generally, you’ll find that backpacking tents are anywhere from normal weight to lightweight and even ultralight weight. The best thing to do here is to choose according to your total carrying capacity.

Capacity

The next aspect that’s crucial is the capacity of the tent. You don’t want to end up going through your trip, enjoying yourself only to be cramped in a tent with five other people at night. At the same time, you don’t want to bring a big heavy tent if you’re going solo. Make sure to buy a tent according to your requirements. Buying multiple tents is also an option if you’re going with a big group. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Price

Obviously, you’re not going to buy something you can’t afford. Cheap backpacking tents don’t have to be bad. This is why you have to carefully consider the price of the tent that is on offer. It’s important to remember here that price doesn’t directly correlate to quality. You can find good-quality backpacking tents for cheap and similarly find average-quality tents with a not-so-average price tag. Make sure you’re getting the best value for money when making your purchase.

Protection

What good is a tent if it can’t shield you from the outside elements? That is why it’s crucial that you find out what kind of protection your tent can provide. Whether it’s water-proofing or netting to reduce inner humidity, make sure your tent is up to the task. Some cheap beginner backpacking tents out there offer little to no protection, so choose carefully.

Assembly

No one wants to stand out in the cold for hours, trying to find out how to assemble the tent. It’s an essential factor to consider when buying a tent. Make sure that you know what kind of tent you want, whether it’s a freestanding tent, a semi-freestanding tent, or a non-freestanding tent. These ranges vary in terms of difficulty of setup. A tent that needs minimal poles and pegging points will always be easier to set up. Similarly, a freestanding tent has the absolute minimum amount of setup required.

Durability

If you regularly go on backpacking and camping trips, you need something that’s rugged and can survive at least a couple of trips. While no tent lasts for an eternity, anything that wears out in a few trips is less than ideal. Make sure that your tent is made from durable materials. Try to read up on the manufacturer’s return and warranty policy, just in case you get a defective product.

Vestibules and Doors

Having more than one person in the tent means that they will need to enter and exit at different times. If you have more than one door and vestibule, you can be sure that they can go about their business without disturbing you and vice versa.

Getting a tent with two vestibules is also beneficial when dealing with more than two people. The last thing you want is being huddled in the tent with another person only to have their equipment hit you while you’re asleep. By getting a tent with two vestibules, you can solve this problem. This way, you can each have your belongings safely put away without having them in the tent, taking up valuable space.

Design

It’s easy to spot a well-designed tent as opposed to a poorly designed one. When considering different designs, make sure that you pick something that will stay functional and practical. These days, a lot of tent manufacturers go for crazy-looking designs that don’t offer a lot of practicality. Try to get past how well designed it is on the outside and try to find out what it’s like on the inside.

It’s also essential to make sure that everything functions well and doesn’t break or stop working when you least expect it to. When you’re in a camping ground miles away from civilization in the middle of the night, it can really come back to haunt you.

Season Rating

Despite what some people will have you believe, not all backpacking tents can brave the four seasons. Usually, you’re going to find tents built for three seasons or less, which are summer, spring, and fall. Light winter can still be tolerated by a few tents, but if you’re planning on going camping near the Rocky Mountains, you’ll need something more specialized. If rain is a concern, make sure you have waterproofing available on your preferred tent.

Floor

Aside from the tent’s exterior, you also need to pay attention to the way the floor is designed. A lot of times, you may have a wide tent with a narrow floor that really limits your space and capacity. While you’re at it, you might also want to consider getting a tent that has a footprint that can help protect your floor from tearing through pointy rocks and uneven terrain. Getting a tent with a more layered floor will also help you keep warm against the cold ground.

Walls

Another overlooked aspect of buying a tent is the walls of the tent. Traditional tents come with single walls that may be thin fabric or padded with foam. But you can also get double-walled tents that provide a bit more protection. These tents come with two layers; an outer layer often called the tarp and an inner layer made of mesh lining. Double-walled backpacking tents are especially handy in situations where you have to deal with wet and damp conditions. Any condensation that forms on the inside of the tent is kept at bay with the inner mesh layer. These tents are also great at keeping your body heated, resulting in more warmth for colder climates.

Conclusion

By now, you should have all the tools you need to pick out the tent that will work correctly for your needs. At the end of the day, you can think of it as an investment. The more time and effort you put into it, the more output you get. It’s not all about getting something that’s the most expensive or the most feature-rich. Instead, you should get something that fits your needs perfectly and makes your trip feel memorable.

Need A Bigger Tent?

  • 4 Person Tents
  • 6 Person Tents
  • 8 Person Tents
  • 10 + Person Tents

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE BACKPACKING TENT?

REASONS SUBSCRIBE
  • Save money from epic photography gear guides and round-ups
  • Discover new destinations near and far
  • Learn to travel better and longer from travel tips and resources
  • Get free travel photos and other freebies
  • We don't like SPAM so you won't get any from us

Subscribe Now

Written by Always WanderlustFebruary 10, 2019


facebook Pinterest Twitter flipboard mix

Tags

2 person3 person3 season4 seasonbackpackBackpackingcampinggearlightweightoutdoorreviewsolotenttentsultralight
Adonis

Hi, I'm Adonis, DevOps Engineer by day, Always Wanderlust photographer and writer by night. I didn't "quit my job to travel the world" but I have traveled to over 53 countries. I want to show that you too can make adventure and travel a big part of your life.

REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE

Social Media


Photography Gear

backpacking in the pacific northwest

What’s in my Camera Bag? A Photography Gear Guide!

best lenses for sony a6000

The Best Lenses for Sony a6000 Series (a6300, a6500, and a6400)

mirrorless camera seattle travel

The Best Travel Camera & How to Choose in 2020

how to choose the best DSLR for travel

How to Choose the Best DSLR Camera for Travel in 2020

Belltown Seattle at night

The Best Canon Lenses for Travel – Epic Guide For EF and EF-S Mount


Adventures

Submerged Log in Emerald Lake, Banff Alberta Canada

A Driving Guide Through the Icefields Parkway in Canada

Quebrada De Las Conchas

Cycling The Quebrada de Cafayate On A Dilapidated Mountain Bike

Atacama Desert Chile San Pedro by Mountain Bike

Exploring the Valle de la Luna in the Atacama Desert by Mountain Bike

View Of The Carpathians

Trekking the Seven Ladders Canyon in Romania

Machu Picchu

How To Explore Machu Picchu via the Inca Jungle Trek


Outdoor Gear

hiking gear list

Hiking Gear List – What to Bring Hiking?

camping outdoors

16 Must Have Camping Accessories For Your Backcountry Adventure

4 person tent guide

Guide to the Best 4 Person Tent for Camping and Backpacking

best hiking shoes

Top 10 Best Hiking Shoes For Men & Women in 2020


Hikes

Always Wanderlust 40 Pictures That Will Convince You To Explore The Eastern Sierras image 48

Trekking Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park

Hiking the High Tatra Mountains

Tatra Mountains – A Hiking Adventure in Slovakia

Isla Del Sol Featured

A Day In Isla Del Sol: Exploring Lake Titicaca’s Famous Island

resolution

Hiking Hermannsdalstinden Summit in Moskenes Norway


Travel Gear

carry on size chart

Carry On Luggage Size Chart – 180 Airlines International/Domestic

traveling with your dog

The Best Accessories for Traveling with Your Dog

best carry on luggage

The Best Carry On Luggage in 2020 – Epic Guide for Any Traveler

best travel backpack

How to Choose the Best Travel Backpack – Guide for Any Traveler in 2020


Travel Tips

anxiety and travel how to overcome

Travel Anxiety: What are the Pre-Trip Jitters & How Can We Tame Them?

might travels premium

How to Catch Mistake Fares & Save $190 (on Average) on Tickets

travel budget

How To Have A Travel Budget – Realistic Plan You Can Stick To

Cheapest Day To Buy Flights

The Best Day To Buy Airline Tickets

adobe lightroom

Norway

scandinavian capitals

A Comprehensive Guide to the 5 Scandinavian Capitals

reine rorbuer

Lofoten Rorbuer | Why You Should Stay in One

Nusfjord Grand View

Nusfjord | Exploring A Rustic Fishing Village in Lofoten, Norway

Goats Norway

My Near Death Experience with Goats in Norway

5 of the most breathtaking hikes in norway

The 5 Best Hikes In Norway That Will Take Your Breath Away


Washington

Washtingon Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls in Washington State

Port Townsend

Things To Do In Port Townsend | Washington’s Victorian Seaport

Reflection Lakes, Rainier National Park

Reflection Lakes at Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

A cool sunset at Camano Island State Park

Camano Island State Park | An Awesome Campground

airbnb credit

$55 airbnb credit
Home » Outdoor Gear » Top 10 Best Backpacking Tents And How To Choose In 2020


Related Articles

hiking gear list

Hiking Gear List – What to Bring Hiking?

Hiking Gear List – What to Bring Hiking?
8 man tent and how to choose

The Best 8 Person Tents For Camping and How to Choose in 2020

The Best 8 Person Tents For Camping and How to Choose in 2020
Always Wanderlust Gear Review - Tarptent Moment

Gear Review – Tarptent Moment

Gear Review – Tarptent Moment

Comments

6 Responses
  1. February 15, 2019 Danica Watson Reply

    Thanks for sharing this amazing post.

    • February 16, 2019 Always Wanderlust Reply

      You’re welcome!

  2. February 28, 2019 Nady Reply

    I’ve really been enjoying your posts
    Thanks a lot

  3. July 19, 2019 Robert Reply

    I like the Gossamer Gear the two because it’s ultralight, it’s a 3-season tent with double walls and it does seem like a well-built tent. I’m thinking about getting it soon if I don’t find anything else that catches my eye.

    • July 20, 2019 Always Wanderlust Reply

      You can’t go wrong with the Gossamer Gear!

  4. October 7, 2020 Alex White Reply

    I really like MSR Hubba Hubba NX. I haven’t seen that one yet, but I must give it a try soon, before winter comes. However, I’m not at all for this new freestanding trend, if you are camping in the wild, it’s just isn’t safe in my opinion.

    Thanks for the great review!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Social Media

Affiliate Disclosure

We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates affiliate advertising program designed to allow websites to earn money by linking to Amazon.com

Search

Search
Best Travel Camera Pin
FREE TRAVEL PHOTOS
BEST TRAVEL GIFTS
THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR
@2020 - Always Wanderlust. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy
Always Wanderlust
Always Wanderlust Logo
  • START HERE
  • Outdoor Gear
  • Travel Gear
  • Photography Gear
  • Shop Our Favorite Gear
  • The Blog
    • Adventures
    • One Day In
    • Travel Tips
    • Budget Travel
    • Travel Lifestyle
    • Funny Stories
    • Technology & Travel
    • Activities
      • Backpacking
      • Hiking
      • Cycling
      • Camping
      • Snowboarding
      • Back
    • Start a Travel Blog
    • Back
  • Destinations
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • North America
    • South America
    • Back
  • Photography
    • Photography Portfolio
    • Photo Essays
    • Free Travel Photos
    • Photo Galleries
      • Europe Gallery
      • North America Gallery
      • South America Gallery
      • Central America Gallery
      • Back
    • Photography Tips
    • Fine Art Prints
    • Back
  • Resources
    • Carry On Size Chart
    • Camping Checklist
    • RV Camping Checklist
    • Back
  • About
    • Contact Us
    • Media Kit
    • Work With Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Back
  • Social Media
    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Pinterest
    • VK
    • Back
  • Home