Comparison: Best Compact Hiking Tent (Updated | Nov 6th)
Choosing the best compact hiking tent involves balancing weight, durability, and weather resistance to suit your adventures. From ultralight options for solo treks to spacious two-person designs, this comparison highlights top models that prioritize portability without sacrificing essential features. Whether you’re navigating rugged trails or seeking quick setup, we evaluate key factors like pole strength, fabric quality, and ease of packing to help you find a tent that fits your needs—keeping your focus on the journey ahead.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
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Best for hand protection:
Night Cat Backpacking Tent for One 1 to 2 Persons Lightweight Waterproof Camping Hiking Tent for Adults Kids Scouts Easy Setup Single Layer 2.2×1.2m -
Best for premium build:
Clostnature Polaris Lightweight Backpacking Tent – 2 Person Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent -
Best for ventilated design:
BISINNA 2/4 Person Camping Tent Lightweight Backpacking Tent Waterproof Windproof Two Doors Easy Setup Double Layer Outdoor Tents for Family Camping Hunting Hiking Mountaineering Travel -
Best for instant setup:
Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent: 1 Person Tent Waterproof Instant Easy Setup Outdoor Tent -
Best for easy clip:
Night Cat Upgraded Backpacking Tents 1 2 Persons Easy Clip Setup Camping Tent Adults Scouts Heavy Rainproof Compact Lightweight -
Best for longer size:
camppal 1 Person Tent for Camping Hiking Mountain Hunting Backpacking Tents 4 Season Resistance to Windproof Rainproof and Waterproof -
Best for best value:
Forceatt Tent 2-3 Person Camping Tent -
Best for best overall:
1-Person Backpacking Tent for Camping – Ultralight & Waterproof Outdoor Camping Tent One Person -
Best for budget pick:
Sutekus Single Tent Camouflage Patterns Camping Tent One Person Tent for Camping Hiking 【Outdoor Equipment】 -
Best for 3-season ready:
Backpacking Tent for Camping 2/3/4 Person Hiking Ultralight Tent for Waterproof Windproof Outdoor Tents Easy Setup Two Doors Double Layer Lightweight Instant Tents (Green
Product Comparison: Best Compact Hiking Tent
Hand protection
Night Cat Backpacking Tent for One 1 to 2 Persons Lightweight Waterproof Camping Hiking Tent for Adults Kids Scouts Easy Setup Single Layer 2.2×1.2m
Night Cat
- 【Protect Your Hands】 Night Cat backpacking tent (ZP-10) uses the upgraded fiberglass pole that is fully covered with PROTECTION CASE. Comparing the traditional fiberglass pole under single layer only, the double layer design can protect your hands when assembling to avoid the tiny scrap inserting your hands
- 【Fits One Person Nicely】Inner size: 7.0*3.8*3.6ft. The camping tent fits for 1 person perfectly with enough storage space for accessories like backpack, clothing, footwear, etc. Or 1 adult and 1 child are still capable to sleeping together
- 【Lightweight & Compact】 Weight: 2kg (4.4lb), package size is quite compact, 42*12*12cm(16.5*4.7*4.7in) thanks to the foldable poles. Ideal dome tent for camping,backpacking, motorcycling, biking, hiking. Nice gift idea for boy scouts tent, teens, kids playing at home or backyard
- 【Heavy Rainproof & Great Ventilation】The rainproof polyester fabric PU 3000mm, every inseam and stitching must seal with enhanced waterproof tape, ensures this 1 person tent is heavy rainproof even in the storm. Big opening mesh door and mesh window on roof can lead fresh air flow smoothly while keeping the fly bugs out
- 【Easy Setup & Take Down 】Two fiberglass tent poles are inserted into the diagonal sleeves manually will take 1 to 2 minutes to finish the whole setup. To take down and storage the single person tent is also simple and fast
Premium build
Clostnature Polaris Lightweight Backpacking Tent – 2 Person Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent, 3 Season Large Size Easy Setup Tent for Family, Outdoor, Hiking and Mountaineering
Clostnature
- WATERPROOF & LONG-LASTING: Polyester rain fly & groundsheet & bathtub with PU 5000 coating is firmer than you expected. Weatherproof material with factory-sealed seams keeps you dry and comfortable in all season&all weather condition! Better material but more affordable! You really need an appropriate lightweight 2 person tent for backpacking!
- LARGE SIZE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Ultralight 2 person tent! Tent's size 7'3''x 4'11''x 3'10''(220x150x115 cm). Weighing just 5.29lbs (2.4 kg) total, or 4.52 lbs (2.05 kg) at minimum trail weight (fly, inner tent, poles only), greatly reducing your load. The compact 16.5''x5.9''x5.9'' (42x15x15 cm) packed size slips easily into backpacks, making it ideal for family hikes, boy scout trips, or adventures with your furry friend
- QUICK SETUP & COMPACT: Freestanding and two Aluminum poles designed for lightweight hiking tent's fast pitching. Easily set up by one person with no experience. This ultralight backpacking tent is compact and portable, and also great for Hiking, Bikepacking, Kayaking, Mountaineering, Fishing, or Car Camping
- EXTRAORDINARY DESIGN: The interior entire mesh walls are designed to offer great ventilation, this ultralight hiking tent has 2 D-shaped doors and 2 vestibules on the side design provide convenient enter&out and extra storage for your backpack or shoes
- WHAT YOU GET: 1 x carry bag,1 x inner tent,1 x flysheet,2 x Aluminum poles,4 x ropes,14 x Aluminum stakes,1 x pole emergency repair kit(can be used for damaged tent poles). Every product you purchase has one-year guarantee for material and workmanship defects. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team
Ventilated design
BISINNA 2/4 Person Camping Tent Lightweight Backpacking Tent Waterproof Windproof Two Doors Easy Setup Double Layer Outdoor Tents for Family Camping Hunting Hiking Mountaineering Travel
BISINNA
- 【Durable and High-Quality Material】: BISINNA Camping tent are made with high quality Material. The INNER TENT made with 190T Polyester Taffeta+B3 No-see-um Mesh; RAINFLY made by 190T Polyester Taffeta and guarantees PU2000mm water-resistant; TENT POLES made with lightweight and durable 7001 space aluminum, can supports most heavily wind rain.
- 【Roomy 2-person Tent for 3 Seasons】: With the unfolding size of (23.6+55+23.6) x 82.7 x 47.2 (H) inches / (60+140+60) x 210 x 110 H cm.BISINNA backpacking tent is spacious enough to accommodate up to two people, perfect for couples .The tent also has double layers that is suitable for 3 Seasons and preferred use for Hiking, Expeditions, Fishing, Kayaking, Car Camping, Backpacking, or Bikepacking.
- 【Breathable & Stable】: Large section of mesh and 2 D-shaped doors with dual zippers provide much better ventilation. Equipped with 10 lightweight Alloy Pegs and 2 Wind ropes, the tent has a high resistance of wind.
- 【Easy Set up &Compact】: A camping tent should be very easy to erect and takedown. Free-standing and two Aluminum poles design for lightweight hiking tent’s fast pitching. One person first using this tent is able to set up the tent with double flysheets in less than 10 minutes.Even a child can do it easily.Packed Size: 16.9''x5.9''x5.9'', easy to put in one’s backpack.
- 【WHAT YOU GET】: 1 x carry bag,1 x inner tent,1 x flysheet,2 x Aluminum poles,2 x ropes,10 x Aluminum stakes. If you are not completely satisfied with this tent for any reason, simply contact us, we will try our best to help you solve your problem.
Instant setup
Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent: 1 Person Tent Waterproof Instant Easy Setup Outdoor Tent
Night Cat
- 【Upgraded Folding Method, Easier Fold Back】Throw the tent to the ground, and spread the pole then it will open up instantly in 3 seconds. Folding back is easier than tranditional pop up camping tent, fold the easy setup tent like number "8" and repeat TWICE, please refer to the instructional video. Practice a few times, you'll get the method quickly
- 【Package 40% Smaller】Weight:1.5kg, Package size:21x21x2in. Tranditional pop tent fold in 3 circles while Night Cat Upgraded Pop up Tent fold in 4 circles narrowing the radius of circle to make it 40% Smaller in package. Hand strap and 2 back straps is convenient to carry the foldable tent
- 【Roomy For 1 Person】Inner size: 7.7×3.3×2.95 ft, fits well with twin size air mattress or Night Cat single sleeping air pads, roomy for 1 adults with spacious space to storage extra camping gears on the side of 1 person pop up tent
- 【Cool Ventilation with Porch】1 big doors and 2 wide windows allow the air flows and keep the instant pop up tent ventilated well, used as a Popup Beach Tent to enjoy cool breeze. The doors can be set up with your own trekking poles(Exclude in package) or outdoor sticks to be used as a Front Porch, providing a little shade when sitting in front of tent
- 【Rainproof & Windproof】 Waterproof 190T Polyester Taffeta PU 2000mm, waterproof tape on every seam, to ensure the inside camping tent pop up is totally dry under any rain situation even in the storm. 6mm stretched pole, pegs and guylines makes it strong and windproof
Easy clip
Night Cat Upgraded Backpacking Tents 1 2 Persons Easy Clip Setup Camping Tent Adults Scouts Heavy Rainproof Compact Lightweight,Single-Size
Night Cat
- 【Upgraded Backpacking Tent, Eaiser Clip Setup】 Comparaded with tranditional camping tent spreading the poles through sleeves, Night Cat Upgraded Backpack Tent use the tent clips to attach on the poles making it faster assembling with about 1 minute only
- 【Fits One Person Nicely】 Assembled size 7×3.8×3.8ft, spacious tent for 1 adult, could fit 1 more kid if needed. Fits well inside with 1 to 2 Night Cat sleeping pad and sleeping bag individually with roomy space to storage backpack aside with you. The little vestibule can storage your shoes before entering one person tent
- 【Heavy Rainproof & Windproof】 Rainproof 210T Polyester Taffeta PU 3000, 150D oxford bottom fabric PU 3000, waterproof tape on every seam, to ensure the inside solo tent is completely dry under any rain situation even in the storm. Strong fiberglass poles guarantee the stability and long service life of using. Metal stakes, and guy lines make it stable in a windy day
- 【Lightweight & Portable】 The single man tent only weighs 2KG(4.4lbs) and the package size is quite compact, only 42x12x12cm(16.5×4.7×4.7inches) thanks to the foldable fiberglass poles. Ideal dome tent for motorcylce camping,backpacking, hiking, beaching, outdoor
- 【Cool Ventilation】 Big opening mesh door and mesh window on roof can lead fresh air flow smoothly while keeping the fly bugs out.Raifnly is permanently attached into the loop on roof avoilding the incautious lost
Longer size
camppal 1 Person Tent for Camping Hiking Mountain Hunting Backpacking Tents 4 Season Resistance to Windproof Rainproof and Waterproof
camppal
- [Professional 1 Person Tent]: Size: Inner tent(L8.2ft x W2.95ft x H2.95ft), Outer tent: L8.2ft x W(2.95ft +1.31ft) x H3.11ft, 3500~4000mm Water Resistance. Fire Retardant Standard/CPAI-84. This 1 person camping tent is very light, just 3.75lb, easy to carry on when you camp outside, besides, it's also very easy to set up with only one single ridge pole.
- [Waterproof and Stable]: Outer tent with the water proofing value of 3500mm, seam taping on the zipper, velcro wrap with PVC & seam taping, 4 bottom corner with seam taping, which are high and good enough to prevent the water from entering even under the big heavy rain; Strong aluminium pole construction and the anti tearing rip-stop fabric which greatly help to prevent the hitting and tearing on fabric from the strong wind under the bad weather with big storm.
- [Extended Length – 8.2ft]: This single person tent is long enough to enable the taller person to sleep in the tent comfortably; The longer tent also provides with extra space for the personal belongings like luggage, backpack, clothes, shoes, etc.
- [3 Minute Quick Setup]: Super easy to set it up! It takes only just 3 minutes to pitch tent even for a beginner, and we have specially made the longer and bigger carry bag for the end customer even to pack up the tent loosely and still could put it back into the carry bag easily and conveniently.
- [No-Risk Purchase]: Camppal offer unconditional 30-day money back guarantee and limited lifetime warranty to make it an absolutely risk-free purchase. If you have any question about the tent, Pls just email us, 24/7 customer service will be offered and a satisfied solution will be provided less than 12 hrs.
Best value
Forceatt Tent 2-3 Person Camping Tent, Waterproof and Windproof 3-4 Seasons Ultralight Backpack Tent, can be Installed Immediately, Suitable for Hiking, Camping, Outdoor (2-Person-Dark Green)
Forceatt
- 👍【Tents For Camping 2 Person】: With two D-Shaped doors and two vestibules to accommodate up to two people. Weight: 5.5lb(2.5kg). Interior floor dimensions: 88.6×53.1in(225x135cm), interior height: 43.3in(110cm).
- 👍【PROFESSIONAL WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF】: By a professional water testing, waterproof index up to 5000mm; Welded floor design elevates the bottom of the backpacking tent to protect you from wet grounds; full-coverage rainfly for added protection against rain.
- 👍【EASY SETUP】:Easy Install in 3 mins. It takes only a few simple steps to set up a perfect tent. It comes with 7001 series aluminum poles and eflective guyline for wind-resistance. Smooth & sturdy #8 zippers never stuck.
- 👍【VENTILATION & LIGHTWEIGHT】:A large mesh window with 2 ceiling vents in the upper portion of the tent provide airflow to prevent condensation buildup; Micro-mesh fabric enhances breathability and comfort, get away from the city lights, and you are able to gaze at the milky way.
- 👍【NO RISK PURCHASE】: NO NEED TO RETURN! SEND FREE REPLACEMENT! Making you a happy customer is our main goal. If you have any questions, please contact us and we will get back to you within 24 hours and provide the perfect solution.
Best overall
1-Person Backpacking Tent for Camping – Ultralight & Waterproof Outdoor Camping Tent One Person, Easy Set Up Compact Single Person Tent, Lightweight One Man Tents for Hiking by Underwood Aggregator
Underwood Aggregator
- 1 Person Tent: This 1 person tent weighs just 4.2 pounds, ensuring it won't weigh you down during your outdoor adventures. With dimensions of 86.6 x 31.8 x 35.8 inches when fully set up, it folds down to 15.0 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches when packed away, making it very suitable for single person use. This one person tent provides the assurance of privacy, making it perfect for solo backpackers and adventurers who looking to minimize pack weight without compromising on durability or comfort
- Waterproof & Sturdy: The ultralight tent is crafted from premium materials engineered to withstand rain, wind, and UV exposure. The rainfly with PU5000mm coating ensures water and moisture resistance. Reinforced seams and sturdy poles enhance stability and durability, making it a heavy-duty tent, ensuring the one man tent remains resilient even in challenging weather conditions. Our waterproof tent provides a more reliable shelter for solo adventurers in the great outdoors
- Quick & Easy Setup: Say goodbye to complicated tent setups. With a freestanding and two-aluminum pole design, our camping tent can be pitched in minutes. The D-shaped door design allows for easy access in and out of the single person tent. The smart design of the compact tent allows you to spend less time setting up camp and more time enjoying nature. This solo tent is great for hiking, backpacking, or embarking on a camping travel, especially suitable for people who value efficiency
- Better Ventilation: The breathable mesh inner tent provides ventilation and airflow to prevent condensation buildup inside the tent and stuffiness in summer. The ventilation openings behind the ultralight backpacking tent also solve these problems. The 3 season tent is designed to provide shelter and protection during spring, summer, and fall, whether camping in warm or humid conditions, the lightweight tent helps maintain a pleasant interior atmosphere
- Better Customer Service: Our portable tents come with a set of accessories, including Tent Bag× 1, Inner Tent×1, Rain Fly×1, Aluminum Poles×2, Stakes×12, Ropes×4. The Underwood Aggregator stand-up tent undergoes rigid inspection before its departure from the factory. Should you have any problems with the personal tent, please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team
Budget pick
Sutekus Single Tent Camouflage Patterns Camping Tent One Person Tent for Camping Hiking 【Outdoor Equipment】
Sutekus
- Size: 78.7"L x 39.4"W x 33.5"H / 200 cm X 100 cm X 85 cm. One entrance only.
- Weight: 3lbs. Material: 180 D Oxford
- Contents: 1 x Tent(including two poles), 4 x Pegs, 1x storage bag.
- Feel free to contact us if you have quality issues, we will provide you a satisfied solution.
3-season ready
Backpacking Tent for Camping 2/3/4 Person Hiking Ultralight Tent for Waterproof Windproof Outdoor Tents Easy Setup Two Doors Double Layer Lightweight Instant Tents (Green, 1-2 Person)
ShinHye
- 【Professional Waterproof & Windproof】– ShinHye Camping Tent materials are made of high-grade materials, 210T polyester fibre + 210D Oxford fabric + B3 No-see-um Mesh, Fine workmanship, it offers excellent UV protection. Adopt ShinHye waterproof technology to double-stitched sealed seams, polyester rain fly & groundsheet with PU 5000 coating. This Backpacking tent is fully field tested to withstand heavy rain, ensuring you remain protected from the elements during your camping trips
- 【Easy Set up & Compact】– Free-standing and two lightweight Aluminum poles designed for fast pitching, SBS zipper. Even individuals without prior experience can easily set it up single-handedly. The lightweight tent's compact size and portability make it an excellent choice for various outdoor activities such as Hiking, Expeditions, Fishing, Kayaking, Car Camping, Backpacking or Bikepacking. They're also ideal for backyard fun and park picnics
- 【Intelligent Design】– We offer a one-year warranty. ShinHye Backpacking Tent is designed in 3 sizes, 2-person tent and 3-person tent and 4-person tent (The size is shown in the main picture). This ultralight tent features a double-layer design with an inner tent and a rainfly. It offers more room than typical 2/3/4 person backpack tents, with even enough space for a small canine companion. You can enjoy the landscape from the inside
- 【Mesh Window & Convection Design】– Large section of mesh and 2 large doors with SBS dual zippers provide much better ventilation, which can enhance airflow and open landscape, with good air circulation, you won't feel stuffy inside, the inner gauze net will protect you from bite in summer. The interior of the hiking tent has a camping light hook to hang a lantern and a mesh pocket to store your camping accessories or cell phone
- 【Risk-free Purchase】– ShinHye 3 Season tent is strictly inspected before leaving the factory. When you finish your trip, you can simply place components back into the zippered carry bag to pack up and transport. If you have any questions, please contact us. We are ready to help and happy to hear from you
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when buying a compact hiking tent?
Prioritize weight, packed size, and ease of setup. Ensure it has weather-resistant materials (e.g., waterproof rating, durable poles) and adequate ventilation. Check the number of seasons it’s rated for and if it fits your gear and sleeping setup.
How do I determine the right tent size for solo or group hiking?
For solo hikers, a 1-2 person tent offers space for gear. Groups should choose a tent with dedicated sleeping areas and extra room for backpacks. Always consider comfort versus portability based on trip duration.
Are compact tents durable enough for harsh weather?
Durability depends on materials. Look for tents with reinforced seams, UV-resistant fabrics, and strong poles. 3- or 4-season tents are designed for heavy rain, wind, or snow, while 1-2 season models suit fair weather.
What’s the difference between freestanding and non-freestanding tents?
Freestanding tents use independent poles for quick setup anywhere. Non-freestanding models require stakes and guylines, are lighter, but less flexible in placement. Choose based on terrain and setup time priorities.
How do I maintain and store a compact hiking tent?
Clean it after trips, let it dry fully, and store loosely packed in a cool, dry place. Avoid long-term compression to prevent fabric degradation. Inspect zippers, poles, and seams regularly for damage.
Can compact tents be used in all seasons?
Most compact tents are 1-3 season. Lightweight 1-2 season models suit spring-fall, while 3-season tents handle mild winter conditions. For extreme weather, specialized 4-season tents with heavier fabrics are recommended.