Comparison: Best Ultra Light Backpacking Tent (Updated | Oct 29th)
When venturing into the backcountry, a reliable ultra-light backpacking tent can make all the difference. Designed to balance durability, weight, and weather resistance, these tents cater to hikers seeking minimalist gear without compromising on performance. This comparison explores top models, evaluating key factors like packability, setup ease, ventilation, and protection to help you find a shelter that aligns with your trail conditions and personal preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a weekend camper, discover which option offers the ideal blend of portability and practicality for your next adventure.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
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Best for best overall:
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 1-person comfort:
Naturehike Cloud-Up 1 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Footprint – 3 Season Dome Camping Hiking Waterproof Backpack Tents(210T Orange) -
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 stargazer dome:
Teton Mountain Ultra Tent; 2 Person Backpacking Dome Tent for Camping; Grey -
Best for spacious 3-person:
Naturehike Cloud-Up 3 Person Tent Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Footprint – Doule Layer 3 Season 3 Man Tent -
Best for ultralight design:
1 Person Trekking Pole Tent for Backpacking – Ultralight Backpacking Tent -
Best for waterproof 2-person:
BISINNA Backpacking Tent 2 Person Lightweight Camping Tent Waterproof 3 Season with Aluminum Pole for Outdoor Mountaineering Hiking Travel (Brown) -
Best for premium build:
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent -
Best for wind resistant:
OneTigris COSMITTO 2 Person Backpacking Tent Shelter- Free Standing Lightweight Waterproof 3 Season Camping Tent for Outdoor Hiking Mountaineering -
Best for best value:
Clostnature Polaris Lightweight Backpacking Tent – 2 Person Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent
Product Comparison: Best Ultra Light Backpacking Tent
Best overall
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.
1-person comfort
Naturehike Cloud-Up 1 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Footprint – 3 Season Dome Camping Hiking Waterproof Backpack Tents(210T Orange)
Naturehike
- 【ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT】: Naturehike's Cloud-up 3-season, 1-person backpacking tent offers the most spacious and comfortable accommodations in an ultra-lightweight design. The Cloud-up 210T weighs only 3.74 lbs. It is a must-own outdoor gear for every minimalist backpacker.
- 【QUALITY THROUGHOUT】: The high-quality details include but not limited to smooth and reliable YKK dual zippers, mesh interior pockets, extremely durable rip-stop fabric materials, a full-coverage rainfly and firm lightweight structure, to stand up to your biggest adventures. We are eager to enhance our customers' outdoor experience with the outstanding quality of our Cloud up tents. Note: Cloud up 1 tent is not a free-standing tent.
- 【WATERPROOF】: The Cloud up 210T tent polyester rain fly & bathtub with a PU 3000 coating is extremely firm and waterproof. Our weatherproof material with factory-sealed seams keeps you bone-dry in extreme weather conditions.
- 【QUICK & EASY SETUP】: Naturehike's tents come with a straightforward instruction manual. The usual setup time for a person’s first use of the Cloud-up tent is around 5 minutes.
- 【GUARANTEED AFTER-SALE SERVICE】: Naturehike provides an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee; and a lifetime limited warranty for quality-issued reasons. If your product has a manufacturing defect simply let us know! At Naturehike, customer satisfaction is highly valued.
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
Stargazer dome
Teton Mountain Ultra Tent; 2 Person Backpacking Dome Tent for Camping; Grey, 2006GY
TETON Sports
- STAY DRY: Waterproof rainfly with a 360-degree ventilation system for optimal air flow that allows a cool, comfortable night’s sleep; 1 to 4 person camping tents available
- ROOM WITH A VIEW: Get away from the city lights and enjoy a full view of the Milky Way; Full dome mesh top allows for an amazing stargazing experience
- EASY TO SET UP: Lightweight tent packs down tight for backpacking, hiking and camping; Micro mesh inner tent with perfect fitting, waterproof rainfly; Footprint sold separately
- PACKS UP EASILY: When it’s time to head home the Mountain Ultra Tent is a quick, hassle-free take down
- TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product support team if you have any questions or concerns; YOU CAN COUNT ON US to get you taken care of and back OUTDOORS with TETON Sports
Spacious 3-person
Naturehike Cloud-Up 3 Person Tent Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Footprint – Doule Layer 3 Season 3 Man Tent, Free Standing Camping Hiking Tent for Camping (20D Navy Blue)
Naturehike
- EASY SETUP FREE STANDING TENT: With one set of aluminum alloy tent poles, the tent is super easy to assemble, it takes less than two minutes for anyone with no experience.The double-Y structure can make it self standing without peg nails. It is the easiest tent you have ever put up. Perfect 3 person tent for Backpacking, cycling, Hiking, Bikepacking, Mountaineering, Fishing or Car Camping. And The Tent comes with a instruction manual.
- WATERPROOF& WINDPROOF:The Cloud up 3 person tent made of PU4000mm waterproof 20D nylon with silicone coating, 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.
- Spacious 3 Person Tent: Inner layer dimension: 84.6(L) x 70.8(W) x 43.3(H) inches, enough room for 3 person, and with large headroom for people sitting up inside to change clothes . Tent Fly is designed with extra 34inch long vestibule space to storage your shoes ,backpacks ,cooks or other camping gears.
- Lightweight Backpacking Tent: Made of lightweight & wear-resistant 20D nylon material, total weight about 2.3kg/5.07lbs; Small package size: 20×7.1×7.1inch(51x18x18cm), fits your backpack with plenty of room for other camping gears, the Cloud up 3 Person Tent is perfect for 2 Person or 3 Person backpacking, camping, hiking, cycling, etc.
- 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 in warm season, and you can use the inner tent without rain fly to watch stars in summer night. The rain fly also can be used separately as a emergency tent or camping sun shelter.
- FOOTPRINT INCLUDED:The Cloud up 3 person tent comes with the footprint for the tent, you don’t need to purchase separately. And you will also get tent stakes x 13, wind ropes x 6, 7001 Aluminum alloy poles x 1 set, rain fly x 1, inner tent x 1, strapping tape x 1, carry bag x 1.
Ultralight design
1 Person Trekking Pole Tent for Backpacking – Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Waterproof Hiking Tent for Camping, Lightweight Camping Tent for Scouts, Trekker(NO Trekking Poles)
Underwood Aggregator
- ● 1 PERSON TREKKING POLE TENT: Why Underwood Aggregator trekking pole tent? This poleless camping tent could be set up with trekking poles or any stick longer than 46 inches. However, this lightweight single person tent also works fine by hanging the top guy line to the tree without the poles or sticks. This solo tent is easily pitched by 1 person without any experience in 2 minutes(NO TREKKING POLES PROVIDED!!!)
- ● ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING TENT: Ultralight trekking pole tents are a good option when trying to reduce the weight of your backpacking gear but are unwilling to give up the comfort of a tent. This camping tent for 1 person was erected by trekking pole instead of tent poles and the size is 7'3'' x 2'9''x 3'1''. Packed Size: 14''x5.5''x5.5'' only weighs 2.5 lbs, easy to put in one's backpack. If you want a lightweight backpacking tent for trekking, this is an ideal ultralight tent to fit your needs
- ● WATERPROOF& STURDY: If you are looking to backpacking or camping for wet weather, you'll want the best one person tent for backpacking that will keep you dry and comfortable on rainy days. This waterproof tent for camping applies 210T Polyester tent with PU 5000 coatings. Weatherproof material with factory-sealed seams and dual-layer fabric applied to the heavy-duty tent's four corners for better security to keep you dry and comfortable in all seasons and all weather conditions
- ● FABULOUS DESIGN: This backpacking tent for 1 person is designed with a net and fabric double-layer door and a mesh ventilation window on the side. With better ventilation and no more condensation worries, the large door provides convenient entry and out for the backpacker. This trekker tent offers a large vestibule to store backpacks or shoes, and provides maximized ventilation and view when the vestibule opens, the internal space is sufficient for one people
- ● TRICK TO REDUCE CONDENSATION: The most important factor to reduce condensation is ensuring ventilation. Stake down the vestibule with tent stakes and keep it tight let it far away from the mesh, and make sure the gap between the ground and the vestibule is enough for airflow. Or you can gather the vestibule in the clear night. Remember not to let the curtain or the vestibule cover the mesh door which will cause heavy condensation
- ● WHAT YOU GET: 1x storage sack, 1x tent, 12x tent stakes, 5x ropes, 1x short pole. (No trekking poles provided) This 1 person backpacking tent offers a one-year repair period. Instruction can be downloaded on this page
Waterproof 2-person
BISINNA Backpacking Tent 2 Person Lightweight Camping Tent Waterproof 3 Season with Aluminum Pole for Outdoor Mountaineering Hiking Travel (Brown)
BISINNA
- 【Heavy Waterproof】BISINNA Backpacking tent made with 190T waterproof polyester, Bottom using 210D Oxford fabric and the waterproof tape on every seam, offering PU3000 waterproof rating to keep you dry even in heavy rain.
- 【Windproof-More Stable】Strong and sturdy aluminium poles, No worry of broken pole compared to the fiberglass poles and the pole-sleeve structure increases stability, ensuring better performance in windy conditions.
- 【Roomy 2 perosn tent】Spacious 220x140x110cm (LxWxH) Interior,Quite roomy for 1 person, and no problem for 2 persons. Fits well inside with 2 single-person air mattresses or sleeping bags individually.It is set up easy tent ideal backpacking tent for adults, kids or scouts in outdoor camping,hiking,mountaineering
- 【Double-Layer Design】 Features a waterproof outer layer and a breathable full-mesh inner tent for superior ventilation and rain protection, plus two D-shaped doors for easy access—more convenient and weather-resistant than basic single-layer tents.
- 【Ultra-Lightweight & Portable】Weighing just 2.16kg(4.76lbs) and packing down small, this tent is easy to carry without sacrificing durability—ideal for backpackers and adventurers.
Premium build
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Olive Green, 2 Person
Big Agnes
- FULLY REMAINED One of our best-selling, fully-featured, ultra-light backpacking tents, the Copper Spur HV UL series, has now gotten even better – with new indoor and outdoor features, protected materials that are stronger and lighter, and hardware that makes setup even easier
- AWARD WINNING COMFORT A new awning style vestibule expands the covered living space and provides protection from drizzle and sun. The double zips provide multiple access options Big Agnes Copper Spur HV Ultra Light mtnGLO – ideal for preventing wind-driven rain or snow from entering your living area. The UL2, UL3 and UL4 have two doors and two vestibules.
- STORAGE & MORE The new 3D container "mezzanine" in the foot area provides massive storage away from the floor, the oversized ceiling pocket in the head area provides great extra storage, media pockets allow for clean cable routing of phones or other devices. Includes multiple inner loops for attaching gear lofts (fits all Big Agnes Gear lofts), accessories, and mtnGLO tent and camping lights (not included). Also includes 8 super lightweight DAC aluminum J stakes and 4 awning guy lines.
- A better shelter – The tent corner construction with the unique TipLok tent buckle simplifies tent set-up by combining three functions: secure pole tip attachment, rain cover attachment and tensioning and guy loop. This buckle has a keyhole to allow the pole tip to lock securely in place during construction, and the hinge design stabilises the structure by balancing the forces between the tent body, rain roof and ground spike.
- ULTRA-LIGHT STRENGTH: Proprietary ultra-light nylon with double reinforced ripstop – the mixed fabric with different denier strength offers increased tear and puncture resistance without adding weight. The pre-curved tension rod combined with the 4-way hub design with high volume increases the strength, stability and the fall of rain and snow while creating optimal living space where you need it most.
Wind resistant
OneTigris COSMITTO 2 Person Backpacking Tent Shelter- Free Standing Lightweight Waterproof 3 Season Camping Tent for Outdoor Hiking Mountaineering
ONETIGRIS
- Key Features: Waterproof and durable material – Lightweight but sturdy frame pole for sleeping overnight, even on a windy or drizzle day. – Perfect for the outdoor enthusiast that enjoys camping, backpacking, hiking ,etc.
- Waterproof/Durable Material: 20D Plaid Ripstop polyester construction with 75D nylon tent bottom offering rugged durability, with 1500mm waterproof coating. OneTigris Waterproof Backpacking Tent is perfect for overnight sleeping for backpacking, camping, hunting, and other adventuring activities.
- Quick Setup&Packing: The rain fly, tent body, and aluminum alloy frame poles can be easily assembled for a quick and steadily anchored setup. Packs down quickly to a stuff sack that measures 23.6” by 6.3”. -Highly recommended for backpackers and families that need a quick and easy setup for the trip
- Spacious Design: The interior size is 2ft by 4.3ft by 3.6ft, spacious for 2 person and has plenty of room for storing clothes and gear. 2 zippered entrances, 2 large gear organizer pockets, and with protective tent corners design to prevent sideway winds from disturbing campers’ sleep. Hexagon shaped outer tent for solid wind resistance and stability in shelter structure.
- What You Get: 1-year limited warranty for quality-related issues. Comes with backpacking tent *1, pole *3, 9.8ft/3m guy-line with adjusters*4, tent peg *10, stuff sack *1. Enjoy your life with OneTigris COSMITTO Backpacking Tent!
Best value
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
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 an ultra-light backpacking tent?
Prioritize weight (under 2 lbs), weather resistance (waterproof rating), and compactness. Ensure it balances durability with minimal weight for long-distance hiking.
How does tent seasonality affect my choice?
3-season tents handle mild weather but may lack wind resistance, while 4-season tents are sturdier for snow and strong winds. Choose based on your hiking environment and conditions.
What are key features of a high-quality ultra-light tent?
Look for lightweight poles, silicone-coated nylon/polyester fabric, taped seams, and a livable interior. Ventilation, ease of setup, and a sturdy rainfly are also important.
Are ultra-light tents durable enough for rough terrain?
Many models use ripstop fabric and reinforced stitching for durability. However, extreme use may require more robust tents. Check reviews for real-world performance feedback.
How do I balance tent weight and comfort?
Opt for tents with minimal poles and a streamlined design. Sacrifice some headroom or vestibule space for lighter weight, but ensure adequate protection and livability.
What size tent is best for solo backpacking?
A 1-2 person tent offers enough space for gear storage while remaining light. Solo tents under 2 lbs are ideal, but avoid overly cramped designs for comfort.
Can ultra-light tents withstand heavy rain?
Tents with 10, 000+ mm hydrostatic head ratings and fully taped seams perform well. Guylines and stakes should anchor securely to prevent water ingress during storms.