Backpacking tents are essential when you are taking a hike or taking a trip into the woods, but they are mostly heavy and require a lot of space to pack. With the evolution of technology, we have improved the backpacks and have even gone a step further and made them lighter for comfort. In the list below, you will find tents that can accommodate a maximum of two people weighing between 1-5 pounds. While those with higher capacity tend to consider a slightly more. If you decide to go on an adventure while on a trip in the forest with your backpacking tents, for the best folding bike for an adventure, you can check (Best Adventurer Folding Bike in 2021)
Most hikers or adventurers are usually worried about their load weight, and they all prefer lightweight materials. Weight was one of the main factors taken into consideration while making this list. Nobody wants to be going on an adventure with so much load, although they need to pack sufficient materials to make their journey comfortable. Backpacking tents require a lot of space to be moved, and the ones with minimal weight are always preferred. Most ultralightweight tents are always between the weight range of 2.5 or less. The ultralightweight is possible due to the materials that are used to build the tents. Some of the ultralightweight tent features include tapered floor, heavily sloped ceilings, smaller vestibules, thin fabrics, and simplified pole structures. These are some of the things to consider when trying to figure if a tent is ultralightweight. Honestly, in the end, not all ultralightweight tents have the perfect features, but you are sure to find why that suits your purpose.
Another critical factor is the price. Simultaneously, some people are not regular backpacking tents because they use them once or twice a year. Also, others make use of backpacking tents frequently, and those are the ones who make heavy investments into backpacking tents. To determine what backpacking tent suits you in terms of price, you need to make sure you know why and how frequently you plan on using your backpacking tent.
The Best Budget Backpacking Tents Are Reviewed Below
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We have taken different criteria like weight, price, and durability into consideration while compiling this list. You can be guaranteed that any backpacking tent that makes it to this list has all the excellent specifications and features required to give you real value for your money. We hope you find one that meets all your criteria.
1
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
If you are looking for the perfect backpacking tent with adequate space, is lightweight with amazing features, you have found the perfect fit. The Big Agnes’s Copper Spur raises the standard for the ultra-lightweight categories for tents, and after so many years, it is still regarded as the ultimate standard. Now let us talk about the most recent version of this tent that can accommodate two persons and cover 29 square feet of space. Some of its unique features include pre-bent poles, adequate headroom, steep walls, and two doors. And the significant part is with all these fantastic features, and it doesn’t weigh much, it weighs 3 pounds 2 ounces. When you look at other competitors with similar characteristics, you will understand that this product is unique. This tent is fantastic for any weather condition, as it has been tested in both wet and dry conditions. When it comes to the price, this tent is quite affordable, and it only costs $450, which is affordable when you compare it to other brands in this category. You have to take extra precautions with this tent, as it is made from lightweight materials and cant withstand wear and tear. With all these fantastic features, you can see why this is one of the best backpacking tents.
Key Features:
- Low light
- Good for any weather
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Specification:
- Dimension: 88 x 52/42 in
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Manufacturer: Big Agnes
- Closure Type: Zipper
- Floor denier: 15D x 20D
- Capacity: maximum of 4 people
Pros
- It has adequate internal space
- It is easy to setup
- It is lightweight
Cons
- It is expensive
- It is fragile
2
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+
When it comes to the perfect tent with the right price and excellent quality, with the best performance, then the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is an ideal choice. Over the years, there have been modifications by the manufactures of this tent to improve and make it of an excellent standard, and the result is magnificent. The amazing price of $279 has incredible features, including durability, easy setup, and proper ventilation. You might find a cheaper tent by this brand, but this is the best out there, and it is worth every penny. It has all the amazing features to make every backpacker happy. As expected, there will be a downside accompanied by all the amazing features this tent possesses, and it comes in its weight. It weighs over a pound, which is a lot for the most weight meant to be lightweight. But, when you consider other tents within its budget, you would understand that it is better in weight and all-round features than others. There have been complaints about this brands’ designs and finishing, but we can say that this tent might not be the best in terms of design, but it has a great design overall.
Key Features:
- Durability
- Easy to setup
- Ample mesh
- Adequate ventilation
- 40-denier floor
Specification:
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Dimension: 20 x 8 x 8 inches
- Floor dimension: 92 x 56 in.
- Floor Denier: 40D
- Capacity: 3 and above
Pros
- It is affordable
- It is durable
- It is spacious
Cons
- It is heavy
- It comes in only large size
3
Zpacks Duplex
Recently, it has been known that a popular material called Dyneema has been used in the building of popular ultralight tents by most of the famous brands. This material is used because of its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio, and the zpack duplex is also part of the users of this material, which has made it the best of its class. Suppose you are looking for the lightest tent to make this list, even because it can accommodate two people and still has a bathtub floor to provide you protection from the elements. One fantastic feature of this tent is that the dimension can be adjusted to suit your campsite. When opened, it is very spacious, with enough room for you to move around freely and have a comfortable stay. We all know it can be challenging to find the perfect tent because fitting all the amazing features into one tent can be a real task that would come at a hefty price. One common issue most campers experience while using their tents is that there are possibilities of water entering their tents while camping, especially in the snow. But with this tent, the situation is different. It usually feels dafty when used in certain weather conditions, and this is due to the open sides and thin materials used on the tent. Also, with this tent, the steep walls are not present because of the trekking pole design used on the tent. The trekking pole design makes it not so spacious for two or more occupants. You might find some difficulties setting up this tent because of the design used. If you consider the price, it is a lot more, but this is the perfect tent for you and worth every penny if you like lightweight materials.
Key Features:
- Bathtub floor
- Lightweight
- Adjustable dimension
- Spacious
- Trekking pole design
Specification:
- Floor Dimension: 90 x 45 inches
- Floor denier: 1 oz
- Capacity: maximum of 3
Pros
- Lightweight
- It can be used in any weather condition
Cons
- It is expensive
- It is drafty
- It is difficult to setup
4
Nemo Dagger 2P
If you are very specific about the weight of materials and would like a lightweight backpacking tent, this is the best option. This tent weighs remarkably roughly 3 pounds and can contain two people with enough space and light for adequate comfort. This tent has impressive features like insufficient space and light. It has also been improved compared to the previous model, and more space has been added. There is also adequate storage space. You can even notice the symmetrical dagger on the dagger’s floor, which is unique because most tents within its category have tapered towards its feet. The balanced design has made it possible for sleeping in the opposite direction comfortable and achievable. As expected, it will come with a slightly negative side, which is evident in wet weather conditions. The vulnerability is because sections of the tent are at each of the tents, the rainfly is raised, which can lead to exposure and make your tent subject to blowing away in windy conditions. Although, as expected, the tent is waterproof, when it rains, you can feel the wetness on the tent’s surface with your hands.
Key Features:
- Spacious
- Proper lightening
- Two large doors
- Two spacious vestibules
Specification:
- Weight: 3 lb
- Size: 19.5 x 6.5 inches
- Floor area: 31.3 sq ft
- Manufacturer: Nemo
Pros
- It is spacious
- It is lightweight
- It is easy to setup
Cons
- It is not significant in wet weather conditions
5
Hilleberg Nallo 2
Unlike most of the tents we have listed so far, which are lightweight and can not withstand harsh weather conditions, this tent is separate. Just above the usual tents you get, this tent is built for extreme weather conditions. From the design of this tent, you will be known it is unique in its way. Most tents usually have a dome shape, but this tent is separate and is built with a tunnel-like shape. During the case of strong winds, all you need to do is to set up your tent in the direction of the wind and use the guylines, and you don’t need to worry about the wind. A great example of how strong this tent is, it was used in the arctic circle during a bad weather condition, and it passed the test. With all the fantastic features and its toughness, it has a problem with ventilation. During warm conditions, ventilation can be a big problem in this tent, leading to condensation within the inner walls. This tent is suitable for harsh weather conditions but can be unbearable in warm conditions. Other downsides will include its weight and price, but if you consider the amount of protection you will get from this tent, you will know it is worth the price.
Key Features:
- Durable
- Heavy
- Tunnel-like shape
Specification:
- Packaged weight: 5 lbs
- Floor dimensions: 86 x 43 inches
- Floor denier: 70D
- Capacity: maximum of 4
- Manufacturer: Hilleberg
- Closure Type: Zipper
Pros
- It is excellent in high wind conditions.
Cons
- It is expensive
- It is not significant in mild conditions
6
MSR Hubba Hubba NX
If you are looking for a tent that ticks all the appropriate boxes in terms of features, this is the best choice. Although it is lightweight or spacious, this is not the best because of its limited space. It is not so heavy, but when compared to the other ultralightweight tents, then it feels heavy. When it comes to various weather conditions, you can be assured of safety and sleep peacefully. With the hubbed pole design for extra protection and extra coating of waterproof on the fly, the tent can perform better in various weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Two doors
- Vestibules
- Near-vertical walls
- 30-denier floor
- Hubbed pole design
Specification:
- Weight: 4.54 Grams
- Capacity: maximum of 2
- Floor: 29 Square Feet
- Closure Type: Zipper
- Floor dimensions: 84 x 50 inches
Pros
- It is durable
- Great for any type of weather
Cons
- It is expensive
- It is not spacious
7
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye
When it comes to the big Agnes brand, you are assured of great designs with the latest technology, and the Tiger Wall UL2 solution is what comes to mind. With this tent, you will notice the vestibule and two-door features for added comfort. The features available make sure you are adequately comfortable and caters to an extra person while still maintaining its lightweight.
Key Features:
- Two-door
- Vestibule
- Semi-freestanding layout
Specification:
- Packaged weight: 2 lbs
- Floor dimensions: 86 x 52/42 inches
- Floor denier: 15D
- Capacity: maximum of 3
Pros
- It is spacious
Cons
- It is heavy
- It is expensive
Buying Guide Questions
As expected, in every buying guide, customers and potential customers always ask questions. We have taken time to review some of the common problems that are usually asked, and we have provided answers to help you make a better decision. We hope you find our solutions helpful.
How much should a tent weigh for backpacking? What is the best cheap tent?
Oh yes! It would be best if you did not forget about considering the weight of your tent while embarking on a camp, as it tents the easier your camping”. It should not weigh more than 3kg per man, or even lesser is much better and more advisable though, the lesser the tent, the lesser the room is occupied. If possible, it may cost a higher price tag, but you should always think about the comfort of yourself, so it is you choose a lightweight because it brings easier hiking and more with less weight and believe me, it will reduce the level of your stress.
Considering the cheapest tent in price should not make you forget the best, standard and high quality. Although there may be conditions that warrant assessing the cost-effectiveness, your safety and comfort should be of a higher priority. Thinking or looking for the most affordable tent with the best and standard quality, durability, and trustable for a trip, there may be many tents available, but Nemo brand tent is recommendable while others may include; Coleman camping tent, Semoo camping tent, Wenzel Klondike tent, and the likes.
How much should a 2 person backpacking tent weigh?
After discussing the weight of a person’s backpack tent, which is the maximum of 3kg or less, you should not think that since a person may weigh 3kg, a two-person backpack should weigh 6kg or even 7kg. No, things are not done that way. Looking onto the comfort and fun trip in your camping, it should not weigh more than 5kg whereas it can be divided into two which will be 2.5kg per head, can you imagine how easier, fun and lighter it will be going four tours during the holiday with 2.5kg weigh tent? Trust me, and you will just be walking and chatting with your hiking partner without feeling much or any weight on your back. Mind you, the heavier the weight of the tent on your back, the faster and sooner you feel its pain. So if you go for a 2 person tent that weighs not more than 5kg, you share it with your camping partner, whereas you carry the poles and pegs and carry the tent fabric, and you have your safe trip. Now imagine how heavy it will be to take this alone, Man you are going beyond limits.
How heavy is too heavy for a backing tent?
You should not go beyond your capacity while considering the type of tent for your journey, do not say because you want a roomy tent and decide to overload yourself with a heavier backpacking tent. However, your tent may be selected depending on your weight. Still, no matter how higher your weight is, do not deceive yourself by going for the one that makes your long journey more stressful; always have it in mind that the load on your back determines your comfort and safety. Stating a percentage for the outranged weight may also be abused, because even those who are not capable of the said percentage may be claiming their ability to such level and which may be dangerous for their journey or even health condition. The backpacking tent is weighed under four categories: A person tent, A two-person tent, A three-person tent, and A four-person tent. So if you as a single man should go for a two-person tent instead of solo, you have heavier than you are supposed to carry. At the same time, some categorized it to be three, which are: Lightweight tent, Ultra-lightweight tent, and Traditional weight tent. Going for the traditional weight is going beyond one’s limit.
Are expensive tents worth it?
While trying to select the best backpacking tent for your long journey, you will realize that each tent’s prices differ from one another. Some may have a low price while others may be higher than others. But the problem is, did those tents that cost high really worth it in terms of durability and other features? The trust about it is that some worth it while most do not, but most of them deserve the higher cost of their product because of its value. And the scenario is buying a product with a higher price and later ending up buying a fake or less value product, which puts more doubt in people in terms of trusting the expensive products. Even though financial constraints may be the preventing fence for some people going for those expensive ones. So, choosing your tent, you have to know more about the brand and make sure many customers have trusted it. Mind you, and the salient fact is that Manufacturers also won’t want the collapse of their products, so they put more effort in to maintain their products the standard abducts.
What is the best brand of tent?
Many industries were found producing tents in which each manufacturer’s quality of material differs from one another. Having this difference in the materials used makes the constructed tent more and more recommendable than one another. Also, there are more differences in size, construction, weight, quality, and price of each tent. So if you are in deep thought about knowing the best brand tent, worry not, here are some brands with the best, durable and pocket-friendly tents: Nemo brand tent whose headquarters are situated at New Hampshire and the USA, some of the types they make include: Backpacking, Mountaineering, and Camping. Other brands include Marmot, Coleman, MSR, Big Agnes, Alps Mountaineering Companies.
Are Coleman tents good quality? Is Nemo a good tent brand?
We have many tents produced by various manufacturers available in the market for sale but focus on Coleman tents. Having done more research on the companies producing tent, Coleman is one of the tent manufacturing companies’ high-ranking industries. However, there may be some factories competing with them in terms of quality and cost-effectiveness. However, its popularity among people can still not be underestimated, making it gain good comments about their product from people around the world. Should we talk about its Affordability? It ranks among the best companies while discussing the effectiveness. Although there may be other brands with lower costs, it cannot be lower and still maintain its durability with Coleman. Or should we discuss outstanding weather protection? It is among the best companies producing a safety tent again weather calamity. Or talk about its Quality, Durability, and Comfortable spaces? It can never be left out in all these features, or it’s a more straightforward setup. All these features make it among the best tent companies. So if you were choosing Coleman tent, you have a good product.
Nemo brand tent is a company whose existence is between 15 to 16 years. They are popularly known for the production of safety equipment for sleeping and sports equipment, to be precise, making it earn the position of being among the companies producing high quality, durable and standard tent, backpacking, good camping equipment, and mountaineering. All these make it stand to be the best brand intent company.
Should I get a 2 or 3 person tent?
As we have different kinds of tent available in the market, and the types of tent being categorized to be four or more: a person tent, a two-person tent, a three-person tent, and a four-person tent. It makes it easy to get a two or three-person tent from any tent company, especially Coleman and Nemo brand company. It is possible getting a two or three persons tent or even more depending on choice. However, the rate may differ from a solo tent because not the same material used for solo will be used for two or three-person tent. Instead, it consumes more material than solo, making it require more rate than a person tent.
How do I choose a hiking tent?
Choosing the right hiking tent is more essential and recommended while preparing for your camp journey. You can make your choice so easy and simple by putting the following steps into consideration
1. CAPACITY: This includes the number of rooms in your tent, it should be chosen according to the number of hikers embarking on a journey with you, that is to say, if you are alone then you should for A person tent and you are two then you go for the Two-person tent.
2. SEASONALITY: Camping is not restricted to one season. Instead, it can be embarked on during any season of your choice. Since this is the case, tents are made concerning each weather condition. You should not be going camping in the rainy season and choose the kind of tent expected for the drying season unless you want to risk your safety. Also, some tents are made for just the period of a season to choose such a tent. You must have planned your camping period to be restricted to such a season and avoid disappointment because whether the condition will never be the same for your trip.
3. WEIGHT: You should also put weight into consideration while choosing a tent for your hiking. It is advisable and recommendable you select the one with a lesser weight that will ease your trip and make it more comfortable. However, a tent with heavy materials gives more durability. But that does not mean you should go for the one that will almost break your spinal cord, all in the name of durability. Instead, it would be best to pay for the premium ones, which may consume more payment.
4. LIVABILITY: This includes the best interior spaces, easy accessibility, and easy setup. A tent’s livability may be improved by having the following features: Rainfly color, Doors, Ventilations. While its structure may be improved by adding the below features Freestanding design, pole hubs, pole clips, and color-coding.
5. COST EFFECTIVENESS: This includes the tent’s price. It should be chosen according to your pocket, and you should not go beyond your financial capability. And do not because of the cost rate and go the fewer quality ones. Look for durable ones which your pocket can afford.
6. DURABILITY: Durability should also be considered while choosing your tent because you can not just go to the market and ask for the cheapest rate without feeling its durability, except you do not care for your safety. As well you can also not buy the one with a higher rate without considering its durability because some products may appear to be expensive, but frankly speaking, they did not worth it.
So if you are choosing a hiking tent, it is expected that you have to put all these into considerations to choose the best, durable, comfortable, quality, and standard one for your trip to ensure safety and a comfortable journey.
Conclusion
In the article above, we have provided you with a list of the best backpacking tents available presently for you. Each backpack that made the list above has fantastic features, making it unique in its way. We hope you find one that fits your criteria. While going on your adventure into the forest or a road trip, and you need to pack some food without having the smell follow you everywhere, you will need a smell-proof backpack. You can check (Best Smell Proof Backpacks)