When it comes to backpacking, there are so many things that you need to properly prepare. Among the most important gear is the tent. We’ve slept inside a lousy tent before, and it was honestly one of our worst experiences ever. The best backpacking tents are typically lightweight and a breeze to carry, making them the perfect choice for long-distance hikes. In addition to that, they should also be durable, weatherproof, and easy to set up. Looking for the right one may sound easy, but it’s honestly not that simple. Luckily, we’ve collectively tried out some of the most reliable options on the market. Today, we’ll let you know what are our opinions on the following tents and why you should consider them for your next trip. Read on to find out more about our favorites!
Table of contents
- Kelty Grand Mesa
- Marmot Crane Creek
- BISINNA 2-Person Tent
- NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO
- THE NORTH FACE Stormbreak 2
- MSR Access 2
- MSR Freelite 1
- NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P
- Kelty Late Start 2
- NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P
- MSR Hubba Hubba 2
- Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
- Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
- Our Verdict!
- How to Choose The Best Backpacking Tents
- Is 3kg too heavy for a backpacking tent?
- What is the difference between a backpacking tent and a regular tent?
- Do I need a tent for backpacking?
Kelty Grand Mesa
13
What we have here is the Kelty Grand Mesa, a freestanding, three-season tent made for budget backpackers. The polyester fabric of this tent is exceptionally durable and features a PU coating for water resistance. Unlike many others, it only comes with one vestibule but is big enough for your gear. Thankfully, the rainfly can be extended fully for that extra protection against the elements.
When I tested this tent, I was alone but I could set it up on my one. The poles are color-coded, and the clips are a piece of cake to use. It’s also relatively lightweight, weighing a little over 4 lbs. Even better, this tent comes complete with a Shark Mouth carrying bag. While it’s not the most perfect choice, it sure offers great value for the money. By the way, this tent is also featured in our list of the best hiking tents, so make sure to give it a read!
Pros
- This tent offers great performance despite its affordable price tag.
- It’s also available in a four-person variant.
- You can set this tent up by yourself.
Cons
- Though a two-person tent, it’s not that spacious.
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Marmot Crane Creek
12
Up next is the Marmot Crane Creek, a reliable tent designed for easy use. At 3 lbs 15 oz, it’s not the lightest model but is light enough for most people. This freestanding tent is extremely stable. The two D-shaped doors are huge, and the inside can comfortably accommodate two people. Our testers are pretty tall, and they didn’t have any problem seating and chilling inside the tent.
This is an excellent tent with two vestibules. One of them is big and the other one is a bit smaller. They provide tons of space to keep your gear safe and dry. Setting it up is also a breeze, even when the weather is windy. If this is your first time doing this, you don’t have to worry as the tent comes with clear instructions.
Pros
- The interior is spacious for two people and their stuff.
- The polyester ripstop fly and nylon bathtub floor are durable.
- It’s easy to transport and carry.
Cons
- Not as weatherproof as some of its competitors.
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BISINNA 2-Person Tent
11
With over 1,000 reviews on Amazon, BISINNA 2-Person Tent is one of the most beloved options out there. It’s easy to love this tent, as it offers tons of amazing features at such a ridiculously low price. The frame is stable and the interior is big. Two of our team members were able to sleep well inside, and they even used their sleeping pads. Of course, setting the tent up and dismantling it is also a breeze even if this is your first time doing it.
Considering its price tag, it’s only normal for some people to question its durability. Lucky for you, it’s more durable than many other similarly-priced tents. The waterproof polyester is durable enough to be used for years. While it’s not the most lightweight option, it is compact enough to fit inside your bag.
Pros
- The setup process can be done in under 10 minutes.
- The inner part of the tent and flysheet are connected by sturdy fasteners.
- It’s a well-ventilated tent that’s great for spring, summer, and fall.
Cons
- Not a great choice for taller backpackers.
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NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO
10
Who says two-person tents have to weigh over 3 lbs? The NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO proves otherwise. At just 2 lbs 1 oz, this is one of the most lightweight two-person tents out there. This can be achieved thanks to the brand’s OSMO material, which is thin yet durable. In addition to that, the inside is spacious and it has ample headroom for everyone.
Keeping your things tidy is easy with this tent. When we tested it, we were able to keep our sunscreen, phones, lamps, and bags inside the vestibules. The doors are also big, which allowed us to exit the tent easily. And instead of using mesh, the top of the tent is ripstop nylon, meaning it offers better wind protection. Speaking of which, some of NEMO’s products are also featured in our lists of the best sleeping bags for winter and the best tents for desert camping. Check them out, too!
Pros
- It’s an extremely lightweight two-person tent.
- The durability is among the best.
- Setting it up is easy and simple.
Cons
- The fabric may be too thin for some people.
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THE NORTH FACE Stormbreak 2
9
THE NORTH FACE is a brand that needs zero introduction. It has produced so much high-quality outdoor gear, so honestly shouldn’t surprise you to find the Stormbreak 2 here. This tent is the perfect choice for budget backpackers. As a tent under 200 USD, it offers amazing weather protection and comes with a full-length fly. The two doors are massive for easy entering and exiting, and there are big vestibules for keeping your gear safe at night.
The durability of this tent is also worth mentioning. During testing, it was able to withstand the elements pretty well. The wind was strong back then but this tent managed to survive. The floor area is 30.56 sq ft, meaning two people can sleep comfortably the whole night. Better yet, we were able to assemble and disassemble this tent without any help!
Pros
- It’s affordable but offers premium quality.
- Produced by THE NORTH FACE, one of the most reputable outdoor gear brands.
- It’s spacious for two people.
Cons
- Weighing 5 lbs 14 oz, it’s quite heavy.
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MSR Access 2
8
Most tents for backpacking are designed for three seasons, but not the MSR Access 2. This is the ideal choice if you plan to have an adventurous backpacking trip in tougher conditions. It has an extremely sturdy structure, long-lasting poles, and less mesh compared to others, making it a nice option for wind, rain, as well as snow.
We’ve used many two-person tents before, and this one is among the best. During testing, we found the doors to be big enough for us, and the inside was decently roomy. With a peak height of 41″, we also had enough headroom. At 3 lbs 10 oz, this is a lightweight tent that anyone can carry and transport without many problems. For more information about this tent, visit its official product page!
Pros
- It’s one of the best all-season tents out there.
- It’s also available in one and three-person variants.
- Setting the tent up is easy and quick.
Cons
- This may not be the best option in mild conditions.
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MSR Freelite 1
7
Best for Solo Backpacking. Want to go lighter without sacrificing convenience? Take a look at MSR Freelite 1! Weighing only 1 lb 15 oz, this tent is perfect for solo backpackers. Despite its weight, it’s still surprisingly spacious. One of our testers has used this tent, and he’s 6’2″. Despite his height, he still had plenty of room to stretch out inside the tent. The headroom is also good even for taller backpackers.
Another feature that makes this tent particularly appealing is its ease of setup. It can be pitched in just a few minutes, which is great especially when you’re alone out there. The stakes that come along are also lightweight and strong. Those who want the perfect balance of weight, livability, and protection should totally consider this tent. For more similar models, check out these best one-person backpacking tents!
Pros
- This tent is exceptionally roomy for one person.
- The big vestibules allow you to store your gear easily.
- There are convenient pockets for smaller items like the best backpacking multitools.
Cons
- Not as spacious as two-person tents.
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NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P
6
This tent is the answer for those who have been praying for a lightweight and reliable tent. Weighing only 3 lbs 1 oz, the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P is among the most lightweight options on the market. If you’re going to have a long backpacking trip, it won’t slow you down. Despite its weight, we love how spacious this tent is. During testing, it allowed my friend and I to sleep comfortably. The head-to-toe length and headroom were truly impressive.
There are two side doors, so each person can exit the tent easily and quietly without disturbing one another. There’s also a black and white mesh that we think is perfect for stargazing and increasing privacy. Of course, you can also expect huge vestibules to store your backpacking essentials. Plus, there are some pockets for extra storage, too.
Pros
- This tent is easy to set up even in windy conditions.
- It’s durable and weather-resistant.
- A great choice for tall backpackers.
Cons
- This tent is comparatively expensive.
Buy on:
Kelty Late Start 2
5
Best Budget. Don’t want to spend too much? Fret not, as the Kelty Late Start 2 is here. At less than 200 USD, this tent has a modest price tag without sacrificing quality. This three-season tent is strong enough to withstand the harsh elements. Apart from that, with a two-pole design, we were able to set it up really fast.
In addition to that, this affordable tent is lightweight and compact. Though not the smallest, it certainly can fit most backpacks easily. We also fancy the vestibules. We were surprised by how big they were as they could accommodate our backpacks. Sure; there are many better tents out there. But for its price, it sure is worth considering.
Pros
- This tent offers good value for money.
- It’s a well-ventilated tent that prevents condensation.
- Everyone can set it up easily.
Cons
- It’s a tiny bit heavier than some options.
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NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P
4
Most Spacious. If space is your main concern, we’re sure you’ll love the NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P. We tested the two-person variant, and it was truly remarkable. It had enough space for my partner and me. And for your information, he is 6’2″. We were able to sleep comfortably the whole night, and there was still more than enough room for our gear in the two huge vestibules.
You don’t have to worry about the assembly process either. The poles of this tent are pre-bent, so it’ll only take you a few minutes to set it up properly. It’s also a durable choice that suits most weather conditions. Last but not least, it’s well-ventilated. There’s plenty of mesh on the body, allowing the tent to keep you cool and comfy. Need more convincing? Watch Outdoors Podcast’s review!
Pros
- With a floor space of 31.3 sq ft, this is the most spacious two-person tent on the market.
- The vestibules are big enough to store backpacks and boots.
- The instructions manual is clear and easy to understand.
Cons
- At over 4 lbs, it’s slightly heavier than its competitors.
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MSR Hubba Hubba 2
3
At just 3 lbs 4 oz, MSR Hubba Hubba 2 is a lightweight yet durable tent that won’t disappoint. This two-person tent is made from high-quality materials, including a durable nylon fly and waterproof floor. In addition to that, the poles are made from composite material, making them strong and lightweight at the same time.
Setting up this tent was also easy for us. It took less than 10 minutes for us to completely assemble the tent. Want to know why? That’s because this tent comes with color-coded poles and clear instructions. Another thing worth mentioning is its breathability. With a good ventilation system, this tent is always cool and comfortable even on those warm nights.
Pros
- The headspace is roomy.
- With a spacious interior, two people can sleep comfortably.
- It can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Cons
- The quality of the cords can be improved.
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Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
2
Best Lightweight. The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 is a lightweight tent perfect for backpacking and other outdoor adventures. At just over 2 lbs, it’s one of the most lightweight options out there. Despite its weight, it’s still durable and can withstand moderate winds and rain. When we tested this tent, we were thrilled with the two doors and vestibules, which offered us tons of space for our gear.
Another thing to love about this tent is its ease of setup. We could set it up easily in just a matter of minutes even though it was pretty windy back then. It also packs down small, so you can store and transport it easily. Though it may be pricey, the quality that it offers is certainly worth the extra money.
Pros
- It can withstand rain and wind.
- The double-wall construction enhances its durability.
- It offers ample headspace.
Cons
- The quality of the included stuff sack isn’t the best.
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Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
1
Best Overall. Our team has been backpacking for so many years and we’ve used countless different tents. However, when it comes to backpacking, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is our favorite. It has the perfect balance of weight, space, and weather protection. Weighing just 3 lbs 2 oz, this tent is extremely lightweight considering it’s a two-person tent. And despite being lightweight, it doesn’t sacrifice space at all. When we tested it, it was big enough for two people and there was still enough room for our gear.
“Overall, we’re incredibly impressed with this tent. We think it’s the perfect choice for lightweight backpacking. Light, spacious, and weatherproof, there’s nothing not to like.”
WOW Travel
The durability of this tent is also worth two thumbs up as it’s weatherproof. We’ve used this tent in several conditions, from light rain to heavy snow, and we’ve never had any problem with condensation or even leaks. We’re sure you can also set it up easily. Better yet, the stakes are color-coded, so you can figure out where they go. Learn more about this tent here!
Pros
- This tent may be roomier than you expect.
- It comes with excellent storage.
- There are two doors for easy in and out.
Cons
- It’s on the pricier side.
Buy on:
Our Verdict!
Considering its performance, weight, and durability, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is easily our favorite. However, the rest are also worth considering. We’ve categorized some of them based on their biggest selling points, so why don’t you give them another look?
- Best Lightweight: Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2
- Most Spacious: NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P
- Best Budget: Kelty Late Start 2
- Best for Solo Backpacking: MSR Freelite 1
How to Choose The Best Backpacking Tents
Before you decide which tent to get, there are some important things you should always keep in mind, which include:
Capacity
Tents usually come in one, two, three, and four-person sizes. If you’re only going to be using the tent for yourself, you can save weight by getting a smaller tent. However, if you’re going to be sharing the tent with someone else, or if you want to have extra space for gear, a larger tent is a better option.
Weight
In addition to that, you should also consider the weight of the tent, especially if you’re going to be carrying it for long distances. The lightest tents are made from ultralight materials, like carbon fiber. However, these tents are also more expensive. If you’re on a budget, you can find lighter ones made from nylon or polyester.
Seasonality
Another thing to consider is the seasonality. Three-season tents are designed for use in spring, summer, and fall. They’re not as well-suited for winter camping when there’s more snow and colder temperatures. On the other hand, four-season tents are designed for use in all seasons, including winter. They’re heavier and more expensive than three-season tents, but they offer better protection from the elements.
Is 3kg too heavy for a backpacking tent?
It depends. For some people, it may be light. But for long backpacking trips, we recommend bringing a tent that’s not heavier than that and if possible, lighter.
What is the difference between a backpacking tent and a regular tent?
Since it’s going to be carried around for miles, backpacking tents are usually more lightweight and compact. They also tend to be smaller and not as spacious as regular tents.
Do I need a tent for backpacking?
Why not? A tent can protect you from insects, rain, wind, and other elements, allowing you to have a comfortable rest.
