Comparison: Best The Best Backpacking Tents (Updated | Oct 27th)
When venturing into the great outdoors, a reliable backpacking tent is essential for comfort and safety. This comparison explores top options designed for durability, weather resistance, and portability, helping you find the right balance between weight, space, and setup ease. Whether you’re trekking across rugged terrain or camping in varied conditions, our unbiased overview highlights key features, materials, and performance metrics to guide your decision. Discover tents that align with your adventure style and needs without compromising on quality or practicality.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
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Best for best budget:
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 best value:
Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter -
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 extended length:
camppal 1 Person Tent for Camping Hiking Mountain Hunting Backpacking Tents 4 Season Resistance to Windproof Rainproof and Waterproof -
Best for ultralight 2-person:
Clostnature Polaris Lightweight Backpacking Tent – 2 Person Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent -
Best for best overall:
Featherstone UL Obsidian 1 Person Backpacking Tent Lightweight -
Best for premium build:
Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent | Marmot Tent -
Best for lightweight design:
Clostnature Crux 1 Person Tent for Backpacking – Ultralight One Person Backpacking Tent -
Best for budget upgrade:
Night Cat Upgraded Backpacking Tents 1 2 Persons Easy Clip Setup Camping Tent Adults Scouts Heavy Rainproof Compact Lightweight -
Best for 4-season ready:
OneTigris Stella 4 Season Camping Tent Backpacking 2 Person Waterproof Lightweight Easy Setup Instant 3000mm Waterproof Rating Outdoor Hiking Tent
Product Comparison: Best The Best Backpacking Tents
Best budget
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
Best value
Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)
Kelty
- Fully featured and refreshed for 2020, the reliable backpacking companion Grand Mesa tent is now even grander. Easy, affordable, and awesome… like your favorite freeze-dried meal. Without the heart burn.
- 2020 Updates: Kelty Quick Corners keep poles in place during setup, EZ-Zip vestibule with fully taped seams, Shark Mouth carry bag for easier pack up and storage.
- Dependable Materials: 2 compact folding, DAC pressfit aluminum poles, weather resistant and long lasting 68D polyester tent floor and rainfly fabric, and fully seam taped construction. Color coded clip and fly attachment for simple set up.
- Freestanding, Lightweight Design: Freestanding design allows for the tent to be pitched and then moved around to find the best camp site. Lightweight materials contribute a weight of 4lbs. 1oz (2 person) or 6lbs. 13oz (4 Person).
- The Nitty Gritty: Overall size (in inches) 85×57/44, 30 square feet interior space, packed size 16x7x7in, packed weight 4lbs. 12oz. 1 door, 1 vestibule, rated for 3 season use.
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.
Extended length
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.
Ultralight 2-person
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
Best overall
Featherstone UL Obsidian 1 Person Backpacking Tent Lightweight, 3-Season, Waterproof for Camping and Hiking- Includes Footprint & Mesh Gear Loft – Freestanding with Ultralight Footprint-Fly Capability
Featherstone
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: Weighing in at just 3 lbs 3 oz Trailweight, this tent is perfect for solo backpackers looking to minimize their load without sacrificing comfort for extended backpacking trips.
- 1-PERSON: Enjoy the solitude and privacy of your own spacious 1-person tent, designed to provide a comfortable and cozy shelter for solo adventurers.
- DURABLE SILICONE NYLON: Sil-nylon is a legacy fabric used for higher performance gear such as parachutes, sails, and backpacking tents. Its high tenacity can withstand rugged terrain and provide reliable protection against the elements.
- WATERPROOF: The bathtub floor design ensures waterproofing and keeps you dry even in wet conditions, providing a comfortable and secure sleeping area. Every seam is meticulously taped to prevent leaks, adding an extra layer of protection against rain and moisture, providing reliable waterproofing for all-season use.
- DOUBLE-WALL CONSUTRCTION FOR VENTILATION: Enjoy improved airflow and reduced condensation with a double-wall design, ensuring a comfortable and breathable interior
- EASY SEMI-FREESTANDING SETUP WITH ALUMINUM POLES: Effortlessly assemble your tent with lightweight, sturdy aluminum poles, making setup a breeze, even for beginners, solo adventurers, and families alike.
- INCLUDED FOOTPRINT FOR FAST-FLY ULTRALIGHT SETUP: Utilize the included footprint for a fast-fly setup, reducing weight and setup time for backpackers on the go.
- OVERHEAD MESH GEAR LOFT: Stay organized and keep your essentials within arm's reach with the included gear loft, maximizing interior space.
Premium build
Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent | Marmot Tent, Two-Person, Lightweight and Durable for Backpacking, Camping, Mountaineering in Fall
MARMOT
- Lightweight & Compact – The Marmot Crane Creek 2-Person Tent offers 32 sq. ft. of interior space while staying light enough for backpacking and easy to pack for camping trips
- Weatherproof Protection – Seam-taped polyester fly and floor keep out rain and moisture while allowing airflow for comfort in all conditions
- Strong & Durable Build – 7000 series aluminum poles provide stability and long-lasting reliability without adding bulk
- Easy Access & Gear Storage – Two large D-shaped doors and dual vestibules make entry simple and provide plenty of room to store packs and equipment
- PFAS-Free & Trail Ready – Made without PFAS and built for adventure; Footprint not included
- Go Your Own Way – Since 1971, Marmot has been designing, testing, and sewing apparel, tents, sleeping bags, and backpacks that get us outside to be creative, express ourselves, and escape from the sameness of everyday life. We do what we do because we think this desire to get out and be wild is in everybody
Lightweight design
Clostnature Crux 1 Person Tent for Backpacking – Ultralight One Person Backpacking Tent, Hiking Tents for One Man, Solo, Single Person
Clostnature
- 1 PERSON TENT: If trekking or backpacking personal in the backcountry, you will need a quality one person tent to keep you protected from the elements. Polyester rain fly&bathtub with PU 5000 coating is better in waterproof and firmer than you expected. Weatherproof material with factory-sealed seams keeps you dry and comfortable in all season&all weather conditions! You need an appropriate lightweight solo tent for backpacking!
- LIGHTWEIGHT: For the best 1 person tent, prioritize weight and portability. This ultralight tent has a total weight of 4 lbs (1.8 kg) and a minimum trail weight of 2.97 lbs (1.35 kg) — including only fly, inner tent, and poles, greatly reducing your load. It packs down to 15''x5.1''x5.1'' (38x13x13 cm), easily fitting into your backpack. Despite its compact and light design, the tent offers ample space, measuring 7'3''x2'8''x3' (220x81x91 cm). This provides a roomy area for a comfortable sleep
- QUICK SETUP & COMPACT: A solo tent should be very easy to erect and takedown. 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: Interior mesh walls maximize ventilation, while the tent’s reinforced pole structure and adjustable guy lines ensure exceptional wind resistance, keeping it stable even in gusty conditions. A D-shaped door allows easy entry/exit, and the large side vestibule provides secure storage for gear—its windproof design shields your backpack or shoes from harsh weather, combining functionality with rugged reliability for outdoor adventures
- 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
Budget upgrade
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
4-season ready
OneTigris Stella 4 Season Camping Tent Backpacking 2 Person Waterproof Lightweight Easy Setup Instant 3000mm Waterproof Rating Outdoor Hiking Tent
ONETIGRIS
- Lightweight and Durable: The OneTigris STELLA Camping Tent features a lightweight and durable 20D Nylon outer fabric with a single-layer silicone coating, making it both sturdy and easy to carry at only 4.8lb/2.2kg. Suitable for backpackers, bushcrafters, everyday campers, and families Waterproof: With a 3000mm waterproof rating, the STELLA camping tent is perfect for use in all weather conditions. The removable blackout outer tent allows for greater flexibility in use.
- Waterproof: With a 3000mm waterproof rating, the STELLA camping tent is perfect for use in all weather conditions. The removable blackout outer tent allows for greater flexibility in use.
- 4-Season Design : The STELLA camping tent has a quality mesh inner tent for good airflow, 20D nylon body and 40D Nylon Tent bottom. This ensures you stay dry and comfortable even in humid conditions.
- Easy Setup: The STELLA camping tent is designed with the most straightforward setup method, using flexible poles that cross at the top of the dome and are securely anchored to the floor on all 4 corners.
- Dimension: 2P Tent Package size-21.6”*5.9”/55cm*15cm, Setup size-6.9ft*4.1ft*3.7ft/2.1m*1.30m*1.15m; Weight: 5.07lb/2.3kg; Comes with a setup kit of tent poles, stake*10, 8.2ft/2.5m guy-line*4, and a storage bag.
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 prioritize when choosing a backpacking tent?
Prioritize weight, weather resistance, and ease of setup. Lightweight tents (under 3 lbs) are ideal for long hikes. Look for durable waterproof materials and a design that suits your climate, such as double-walled for wet conditions or single-walled for minimal weight.
How do I determine the right tent size for solo or group use?
For solo use, a 1-2 person tent offers comfort. For groups, add one person to the capacity (e.g., a 4-person tent for 3 people). Check floor space, vestibule size for gear, and interior height for livability.
What weather conditions can backpacking tents handle?
Tents vary in weather resistance. Three-season tents handle mild rain and wind but may struggle in heavy storms. Four-season tents use thicker poles and fabrics for snow and strong winds but are heavier. Check hydrostatic head ratings (2000mm+ for rain).
Are freestanding or non-freestanding tents better for backpacking?
Freestanding tents are easier to set up and move, ideal for changing campsites. Non-freestanding models are lighter and more compact but require stakes for structure. Choose based on priority: convenience vs. weight savings.
How do I maintain and care for a backpacking tent?
Always dry the tent before storage to prevent mold. Avoid direct sunlight when not in use to prevent UV damage. Spot-clean with mild detergent, never machine wash. Store loosely rolled in a cool, dry place to preserve fabric and seams.
What features enhance comfort in a backpacking tent?
Look for mesh panels for ventilation, adjustable rainflies for airflow, and internal storage pockets. A high ceiling and roomy floor plan improve comfort. Color-coded poles and intuitive design simplify setup in low light.