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When it comes to selecting a backpacking tent, there are numerous options, ranging from lightweight and minimalist shelters to more budget-friendly and heavy entry-level models. Depending on your needs and budget, the right tent for you could vary significantly, with beginners and short-trip takers requiring a different tent from thru-hikers who are mindful of every ounce.

Therefore, we have conducted extensive research and spent many nights sleeping under the stars to compile a list of the best backpacking tents. We have primarily focused on two-person models to make it easier for comparison, but other available capacities are listed in the specifications. For more information, you can check out our backpacking tent mentioned in this article to choose the right option for your need and meet.

Review

1. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – UltralightBackpacking Tent

Weighting just over 3 pounds, the Big Agnes Copper Spur is a compact, free-standing camping tent. It has a bathtub floor, a rainfly with good overlap, high-quality ventilation mesh, and two doors with convertible vestibules. The tent includes media pockets with cord-routing for electronics as well as storage pockets with simple-to-use fasteners. The lightweight materials of the tent necessitate cautious handling and packing, but it’s a terrific alternative for multi-day journeys and summer camping where comfort and weight are equally important.

2. Marmot Catalyst 2P, Lightweight 2/3-person Trekking Tent

The Marmot Catalyst 2P tent offers exceptional value and can be used for both car camping and trekking. It weighs more than some other options with a minimum trail weight of 4 pounds, 11 ounces, yet it still packs down small enough for camping. It features a floor area of 32.5 square feet, two doors with vestibules, and colorful poles for simple erection. Its mass and weight are the only drawbacks. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for novice hikers and strikes a fair mix between cost and use.

3. Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tents

One of the best hiking tents available is this NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo 2P tent, an update to the Hornet Elite 2 tent with better water resistance and reduced sag when wet. The tent has a floor area of 27.3 square feet, a weight of only 2 pounds, 1 ounce, and two vestibules and doors for storing goods. In contrast to many ultralight choices, the tent is freestanding and simple to set up and take down. Although the tent is composed of sturdy, lightweight OSMO poly-nylon ripstop material, it is not suggested for automobile camping.

4. Six Moon Designs Ultralight Gray Haven Tarp and Haven NetTent

The Six Moon Designs Haven Bundle is an ultralight trekking pole tent that can be used as a tarp alone or with the Mesh Nest interior for more protection. It weighs 2 pounds, 2 ounces and offers 53 square feet of shelter when used as a tarp. With the Mesh Nest, it provides 38 square feet of space for two adults with two vestibules and doors. While not as durable as bulkier fabrics and requiring good guyline attachments for stability, it is a versatile and fairly priced ultralight tent.

Conclusion

The NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo 2P and the Six Moon Designs Haven Package stood out as two of the top choices in their class after being evaluated alongside other hiking tents. A lightweight, free-standing tent with excellent water resistance and breathability, the NEMO Hornet Elite Osmo 2P is a wonderful option for individuals who value weight reduction and comfort in inclement weather. While the Six Moon Designs Haven Bundle is a multipurpose trekking pole tent that may be used as a tarp alone or with the mesh nest for further bug protection, it is also available as a standalone model. Although it takes a little longer to set up, it’s a great option for people looking for a lightweight, cost-effective tent with a variety of functions.