A backpacking tent is a major gear when planning for a backpacking trip. If you are seeking the best backpacking tents, read this comprehensive review.
Our tent suggestions are completely unbiased, and our primary aim is to assist our visitors in finding goods that they will enjoy for many seasons of outdoor use.
1. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
The Big Agnes HV UL2 stands out in the market because of its ideal mix of weight, internal room, weather resistance, and ease of use. This backpacking tent features awning-style vestibules that offer protection against harsh sun rays and rain.
Despite being lightweight, this freestanding tent is torn and puncture-resistant to ensure utmost durability. If you do not mind a cramped inside or frequently backpack alone, the UL2 is a good choice. While this tent is a tad costly, it is difficult to find a superior freestanding tent in this category.
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight
- Weather-resistant
- Quality construction
- Massive storage
- It comes with two doors
Cons:
- Expensive
2. ZPacks Duplex
The ZPacks Duplex is one of our all-time top hiking and expedition tents. This tent offers a surprising amount of internal room and weather protection for its size. It is specifically designed to give you an exceptional experience for long-distance backpacking.
This tent is constructed from high-quality DCF material, which is insanely light, completely waterproof, robust, and will not droop when wet. It is, therefore, no surprise that this tent comes at a hefty price tag considering the top-notch fabric.
However, there is a learning experience with the tent, and it is not straightforward to use. Because it is non-freestanding and has a single wall, it may require some skill to set up and manage moisture.
Pros:
- Premium quality fabric
- Lightweight
- Packs down small
- Ideal for two people
- Highly functional
Cons:
- Expensive
- The non-freestanding design makes it hard to setup
3. MSR Hubba NX 2
For so many years, the NX 2 has been one of the most renowned tents in the backpacking sector. This is no surprise since it is a well-designed, spacious, and long-lasting tent that provides great shelter in windy and damp conditions.
It features Xtreme waterproof coating that can last up to 3 times longer than conventional waterproof coating. The symmetrical design and almost vertical sidewalls allow plenty of inside area for two backpackers to sit up and relax.
The tent has solid added protection, thanks to its freestanding construction that is relatively simple to put up. Besides its lightweight freestanding design, this tent packs down small.
Pros:
- Waterproof design
- Easy-to-setup freestanding design
- Durable
- Two doors
Cons:
- A bit heavy for solo travelers
4. Marmot Tungsten 2P
The Marmot Tungsten 2P offers an excellent blend of weight, price, and practicality.
It has a similar floor concept to the MSR Hubba NX 2, but it is less expensive and seems larger on the inside. It is comforting to know that its nylon rainfly does not droop in damp or winter weather and that its door snaps open with one hand.
The Tungsten’s biggest flaw is that its vestibules are not symmetrical. For whatever reason, one is wider than the other. Nonetheless, the tent is undoubtedly among the coolest.
Pros:
- Highly functional
- Larger interior
- Weather-resistant
- Easy to open with one hand
Cons:
- Vestibules are not symmetrical
5. REI Co-op Half Dome
The REI Co-op Half Dome tent optimizes the internal room, making it ideal for two people. It features a superlight yet durable construction while keeping costs low.
The large proportions and overhanging crossbar provide plenty of internal room. What’s more, the components of this backpacking tent are far more durable than the ordinary trekking tent.
This tent weighs somewhat more than some of the others on our selection, but it is not too awful.
So, if a solid blend of durability, ease, internal room, and the price is more essential to you than shedding a few pounds, this one is hard to top.
Pros:
- Generous room for two people
- Two doors for easy access
- Freestanding design
- Accommodates taller people
- Includes footprint
Cons:
- On the heavier side