Comparison: Best Packable Tent (Updated | Oct 27th)
When venturing into the outdoors, a reliable and portable shelter is essential. This guide compares top packable tents designed for backpackers, hikers, and adventure seekers who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing durability or comfort. We evaluate key features like weight, ease of setup, weather resistance, and compactness to help you find a tent that balances performance and portability. Whether you’re navigating remote trails or seeking quick shelter on multi-day trips, these options aim to meet your needs while fitting seamlessly into your pack. Choose based on what matters most for your next adventure.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for budget pick:
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 family-friendly:
Coleman Sundome Camping Tent with Rainfly -
Best for best overall:
Naturehike Cloud up Pro Backpacking Tent -
Best for weather-resistant:
2-3 Person Backpacking Tent with Double Door 2 Vestibule -
Best for quick setup:
Golabs CT1 2 Person Camping Tent -
Best for budget tent:
5 Person Camping Tent with Rain Fly and Carrying Bag – Lightweight Outdoor Pop Up Tents for Camping Essentials -
Best for solo travel:
Night Cat Upgraded Backpacking Tents 1 2 Persons Easy Clip Setup Camping Tent Adults Scouts Heavy Rainproof Compact Lightweight -
Best for family size:
4 Person Easy Pop Up Tent -
Best for accessory only:
Coleman Weatherproof Rainfly Accessory for 4/6 Person Instant Tents -
Best for instant pop-up:
Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent: 1 Person Tent Waterproof Instant Easy Setup Outdoor Tent
Product Comparison: Best Packable Tent
Budget pick
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
Family-friendly
Coleman Sundome Camping Tent with Rainfly, 2/3/4/6 Person Tent Sets Up in 10 Mins, Weatherproof Shelter for Camping, Festivals, Backyard, Sleepovers, & More
Coleman
- Kids stay warm in temperatures as low as 50°F
Best overall
Naturehike Cloud up Pro Backpacking Tent, Waterproof Lightweight 2 Person Tent for Camping, Double Layer Two Person Tent with Footprint(Cloud up Pro(Orange – 210T Polyester))
Naturehike
- 2024 NEW CLOUD UP PRO: The Cloud up Pro is the upgraded version of Cloud up 2 Person Tent; 1. A ventilation window is added above the front door, to provide more air flow in the tent, avoid water condensation; 2. The door is upgraded to be a larger and higher front door, with more space to put your camping gears and easy access to the tent.
- BACKPACKING TENT: Made of lightweight & wear-resistant 210T polyester fabric, this two person tent only weighs 4.25lbs. The tent packs up fairly small:15.7” x 5.1” x 5.1 ”, fits your backpack with plenty of room for other camping gears. It is perfect for backpacking, cycling, camping, hiking, bikepacking, etc.
- SPACIOUS 2 PERSON TENT : Tent size: 82.7"L x 49.2"W x 41.3"H, It is perfect suitable for two person camping, There is plenty interior room for a 2 person to have a good sleep and enough headroom to sit up comfortably. The front door and vestibule design is perfect to keep stuff or cook without getting out of your tent in bad weathers.
- WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF :The Cloud up 2 person tent made of 210T polyester with waterproof coating, waterproof PU3000mm+ , and all corners and seams are taped, keeps you dry , with no leaks or drops of water inside. The 7001 aluminum alloy is tough and durable, hold up firmly in heavy wind and rainstorm. Enjoy a good night’s sleep regardless of the weather, go through hail and tons of rain and wind with the tent.
- DOUBLE LAYER TWO PERSON TENT: This tent is designed with two layers, which helps to create as much space and airflow between the fly and the inner tent. High density B3 mesh inner tent provides good ventilation and much air flow inside the tent. The rain fly can be used separately as a sun shelter.
- FOOTPRINT INCLUDED:This backpacking tent comes with the footprint for the tent, you don’t need to purchase separately. What is included: Carry Bag x 1,Inner tent x 1, Tent fly x 1, tent poles x 1 set(with storage bag), wind ropes x 5, strap x 1, footprint x 1, stakes x 14
Weather-resistant
2-3 Person Backpacking Tent with Double Door 2 Vestibule, Waterproof Windproof Lightweight Easy Set Up 3 Season 2 Man Two Person Tent for Camping, Hiking, Motorcycle, Mountaineering with UPF 50+
camppal
- Waterproof Tent:With a PU 3500mm rainfly and poly oxford 300D 4000mm water resistance on the bathtub floor, backpacking tent offers excellent waterproof performance to meet any condition. Seam taping on the zipper, velcro wrap with PVC & seam taping, and 4 bottom corners with seam taping provide added protection against rain and moisture. Plus, 3 person tent meets CPA1-84 fire retardant standard and UPF 45+ for enhanced safety.
- Spacious Interior & Ventilated:With an inner size of 6.89ft X 5.91ft X 4.27ft, rainfly size of 6.89ft X (1.64ft + 5.91ft + 1.64ft) X 4.42ft, Camppal backpacking tent is spacious enough to accommodate up to 2-3 person. The mesh fabric used in the 4 season tent not only protects against mosquitoes but also promotes air circulation. The double-door structure and 3 ventilation windows ensure a moisture-free and comfortable night's sleep.
- All-Weather Tent:Our 4 season backpacking tent is constructed with strong aluminium poles and anti-tearing rip-stop fabric. This ensures durability and helps prevent damage from strong winds and bad weather conditions. The 2-3 person backpacking tent ‘s rainfly has velcro tabs on the inside to attach it to the poles for extra stability. Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or snowy, this 2-3 man tent is designed to keep you safe and intact during your outdoor adventures.
- Easy Setup:Setting up our camping tent is a breeze, thanks to its design with only 2 crossing aluminum poles. Even when you're alone, you can easily set it up in just a few minutes. Freestanding allows the 2 person tent to be moved and relocated without having to disassemble. Additionally, the gear loft and 5 storage pockets perfect for holding pouches with your sleep gear, glasses, and other essentials. The outer layer vestibules provide extra space to keep your luggage dry and protected.
- Lightweight & Portable:Weighing just 8.07lb, our 2-3 person tent for camping is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry on your expeditions. Hiking tent’s compact design and convenient carry bag (size of 7.09 X 20.48 inches) make it the perfect choice for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Don't compromise on comfort and convenience – choose our backpack tent for your next camping, hiking, or backpacking adventure.
Quick setup
Golabs CT1 2 Person Camping Tent, Easy Set Up in 3 Mins, PU1500mm Waterproof w/Mesh Top & Door with Ventilation, Lightweight 4.4lbs Portable Family Tent with Carry Bag &Interior Storage Pockets &Hook
GOLABS
- Practical Size for 2 Adults : Outer dimensions: 84.6 x 65 x 48.8 in; inner dimensions: 82.7 x 59 x 48 in. Spacious enough for two adults to sleep comfortably. Packs down into a 20.1 x 5.9 in carry bag for easy storage.
- Waterproof Protection : PU1500mm waterproof coating and premium fabric keep the inside dry in rainy weather, so you always have a safe and comfortable shelter outdoors.
- Durable & Reliable Materials : Built with 190D polyester taffeta and strong fiberglass poles. Designed to resist wear and tear for long-lasting performance in tough outdoor conditions.
- Breathable Comfort : Mesh skylight and door allow airflow like a natural breeze while keeping bugs out. Stay cool, fresh, and bite-free through the night.
- Lightweight & Portable : Weighs only 4.4 lbs. Sets up in just 3 minutes, making it the perfect lightweight tent for camping, hiking, and beach trips.
- Smart Interior Design : Features built-in 1 hook for lanterns or small items and 2 storage pockets to keep essentials organized and within reach.
- Outdoor Versatility : Ideal for 2-person camping, hiking, beach days, or weekend adventures. Your reliable partner for exploring nature.
- Trusted Quality : Backed by Golabs with a 1-year limited warranty. Shop with confidence and reach out to us anytime with questions.
Budget tent
5 Person Camping Tent with Rain Fly and Carrying Bag – Lightweight Outdoor Pop Up Tents for Camping Essentials, Music Festivals, Backpacking, Hiking, or Beach Shelter by Wakeman Outdoors
Wakeman
- 2 PERSON TENT – This lightweight two-person small tent has enough space for you and a friend. This tent for camping is ideal for hiking, fishing, weekend music festivals, or as a beach tent, making it the perfect addition to your camping essentials.
- CONVENIENT FEATURES – The tent for beach features fiberglass poles, a removable rain fly to protect against unexpected weather, a ventilation window to encourage comfortable airflow, and an interior storage pocket to keep your camping supplies organized.
- DUAL-LAYER DOOR – The combination of the inner screen layer and the outer zippered fabric layer of the easy-up tent door provides plenty of air as well as privacy. Simply secure the doors with sewn-in ties to let the breeze in and keep mosquitos out.
- EASY SETUP – Setup and tear down of this 2 person pop up tent are quick and easy. When you are finished with your trip, simply place the tent components back into the included carrying bag for easy storage with your other camping accessories.
- PRODUCT DETAILS – Materials: 190T Polyester and Fiberglass. Dimensions: (L) 77" x (W) 57" x (H) 40"; Pole Diameter: 3mm; Carrying Bag: (L) 23" x (W) 4". Weight: 2.75lbs. Capacity: 2 People. Color: Blue and Gray.
Solo travel
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
Family size
4 Person Easy Pop Up Tent,9.5’X6.6’X52'',Waterproof, Automatic Setup,2 Doors-Instant Family Tents for Camping, Hiking & Traveling
Rivenlo
- Skylight & Removable Rainfly – The pop up tent features an overhead skylight,it's so romantic for you to enjoy the starry sky at night. The 2-4 person tent equipped with a removable waterproof rainfly cover, 190T polyester + PU 3000 waterproof coating, no worries on rainy days.
- Quick & Easy Setup – Just take out the camping tent and unstrap it, Setting up has never been easier! This tent for camping has automatic easy setup, so you can spend less time pitching and more time enjoying the outdoors.
- Large Space – The size of the pop up tent is 9.5 x 6.6 x 4.3 feet, it can easily accommodate up to 4 people in sleeping bag or 2-3 people with lots of camping gears.
- Double Panels & Waterproof: Outer fabric layer can be closed for cold nights, or be rolled up and fixed by buckles. 4 Mesh windows and 2 doors provide optimal airflow for cross ventilation.
- Well Designed – Storage pockets and lantern hook keep items neat and organized. Ideal for casual camping, Hiking, Backyard Resting, festivals, outdoor family or friends activities.
Accessory only
Coleman Weatherproof Rainfly Accessory for 4/6 Person Instant Tents, Keeps Inside Dry & Protects from The Elements, Rainfly Only (Tent Sold Separately)
Coleman
- Get better airflow by cracking your windows, even in the rain
- More protection from the rain
- Fits the 10 x 9 ft. 6-Person Coleman Instant Tent
- Rainfly only. Tent sold separately
- Packs away compactly for easy storage
- 1-year limited warranty
Instant pop-up
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
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 packable tent?
Prioritize weight, compactness, and ease of setup. Check the tent’s durability, waterproof rating (at least 2000mm), and ventilation. Ensure it has enough interior space for your group and gear. Verify compatibility with your sleeping setup and seasonal ratings (3-season vs. 4-season).
What makes a tent 'packable'?
A packable tent is designed to be lightweight and collapsible, often compressing into a small bag. It uses ultralight materials like silicone-coated nylon and minimal poles. Ideal for backpacking, it balances portability with basic weather protection and stability.
How do I choose the right size tent?
Match the tent’s capacity to the number of occupants. For comfort, opt for one person more than your group size. Consider gear storage needs—2-person tents fit minimal gear, while 4-person models offer extra space. Check floor dimensions and peak height for livability.
Are packable tents durable for rough weather?
Most packable tents are 3-season designs, suitable for mild rain and wind. For heavy storms or snow, choose 4-season models with reinforced poles and thicker fabric. Always check waterproof ratings and seam taping for wet conditions.
How easy are packable tents to set up?
Many packable tents use color-coded poles or pre-attached guylines for fast assembly (10–15 minutes). Freestanding models are easier to reposition, while non-freestanding types require stakes. Practice setup beforehand to familiarize yourself with the process.
Can I use a packable tent for car camping?
Yes, but they prioritize portability over spaciousness. For car camping, consider slightly heavier tents with more headroom and storage. However, packable tents work well for minimalist travelers or as backup shelters.
What maintenance do packable tents require?
After each use, shake off debris, dry thoroughly, and store loosely packed to prevent mold. Spot-clean with mild soap; avoid machine washing. Inspect zippers, seams, and poles annually for wear. Repair tears promptly to maintain waterproofing.