Among some of the most crucial things one should never forget to include in their campaign or outdoor trip is a tent. Should you spend a night, or get caught up in the rain, you will be much safer inside a tent. However, choosing the perfect tent for your outdoor adventure can prove to be a daunting task. There are a bazillion of them out there, each claiming to be the best. In our quest to find the best lightweight backpacking tents, we have explored, tested and consulted outdoor experts on the right one to choose. Our comprehensive buying guide features the best one can get in the market.
Best Pick – Kelty Salida Camping and Backpacking Tent
Comfortable, Spacious & Very Reliable
Ingeniously constructed with heavy duty materials, the Kelty Salida tent could be what you need for your next backpacking trip. The tent comes well equipped with every crucial feature to make it very convenient and easy to use. It is a good backpacking tent that can be used all year round for pretty much any outdoor excursion. And for its fairly low price, you sure are getting value for every penny spent.
Best Lightweight Backpacking Tents 2021 To Buy
Below is a detailed review and a countdown of the 9 best lightweight backpacking tents one can get online.
9. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Backpacking Tent
Price: Highly priced.
Special features: Dual zippers, Ceiling pockets, Aluminum J stakes.
Dimensions: 31 x 7 x 8 inches & weighs 4.9 pounds.
This is a full-featured backpacking tent that comes with an ultra-lightweight design and well quilted to offer optimum reliability outdoors under any weather. It is large enough to comfortably accommodate 2 people and leave a little extra space where you can keep other accessories. Setting up the tent is very easy and takes just a few minutes to have it all up.
The materials used to make the tent not only make it weatherproof but also durable. Anybody in need of high quality backpacking tent that is lightweight and reliable, and don’t mind paying a little higher should consider getting this one.
Pros and Cons
- It is very light and easy to carry.
- The tent is easy to set up.
- It is pricier than most in the market.
8. Bessport 3 and 2 Person Backpacking Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Anti-UV, Full seam design, d-shaped doors.
Dimensions: 88.4 X 72.7 X 47 inches & weighs 6.5 lbs.
Bessport is yet another well constructed super-lightweight backpacking tent worth checking out. It is made with a smooth weatherproof material with 5000mm index that also makes it strong and durable. The 9.5mm aluminum poles ensures that it can stand strong winds and remain firm to the ground. It is well ventilated, thanks to the mesh window and 2 ceiling vents that it comes with.
It is a good quality backpacking tent that has been well engineered to deliver. Users will love its dependability and reliability anywhere outdoors as well as the convenience it offers.
Pros and Cons
- It is lightweight and very convenient.
- The backpacking tent is easy to set up.
- Its sturdiness could use a little more improvements.
7. ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Anti-UV polyester, mesh storage pockets, gear loft.
Dimensions: 58 x 88 x 38 inches & weighs 5.5 pounds.
This is a high quality free-standing backpacking tent that is made with lightweight aluminum poles and polyester materials. Little assembly and set up is required to use this backpacking tent. With ample head-room, nicely ventilated interior and easily accessible doors and vestibules, there is every reason to love this tent.
The wide array of design features like a gear loft, mesh pockets and multiple zippers makes this backpacking tent very convenient. Overall, this is a good lightweight tent that lives up to its advertised promise and easily addresses the many problems faced by most outdoor fanatics.
Pros and Cons
- It is very convenient, thanks to the multiple design features.
- Setting up and unfolding it up is very easy.
- It could be much lighter.
6. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Stakes, Xtreme Shield Waterproof Coating, Unified hub-and-pole system.
Dimensions: 29 X 17 X 39 inches & weighs 3.8 pounds.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is designed to accommodate 2 people and buyers have the option of getting one with premium coating or standard one. With its unique Xtreme shield waterproof coating that provides up to 3 times that of a regular waterproof tent, you can use this backpacking tent to brave even the most extreme outdoor weathers.
This is a good quality backpacking tent that is made to last and endure to harsh climates. Anyone looking for an added coating for extreme weathers in the jungle without adding too much weight should consider this one.
Pros and Cons
- It is very protective, thanks to the heavy duty coating.
- The tent is durable.
- The tent easily leaks on the edges.
5. Naturehike Cloud-Up Backpacking Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Anti-scratch design, Nylon ropes, Breathable mesh.
Dimensions: 82 X 49 X 39 inches & weighs 4.7 lbs.
Designed using a 210T polyester, Naturehike Cloud-Up is one of the best lightweight backpacking tents one can get. It is made with a four-standing dome design which is waterproof and warm on the inside. The upper side has a B3 breathable mesh that ensures that users enjoy a well ventilated environment that is conducive regardless of the time of day.
The anti-scratch design ensures that the tent is strong enough for hard use and durable enough to last many years. This is a very convenient backpacking tent that is easy to set up and reliable to use.
Pros and Cons
- Setting it up is very easy.
- It is sturdy and durable.
- The fly bent zipper tends to be a problem.
4. FLYTOP 3-4 Season 1-2-person Double Layer Backpacking Tent
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: Tape sealed seams, Anti-rain, aluminum poles, UV protection.
Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 18 inches & weighs 5.9 lbs.
This is a high quality 2 person tent that can be used on multiple occasions. From backpacking, camping and mountain climbing, it has stood the test of time and inspired positive reactions from different outdoor enthusiasts. Setting up this dome tent is quick and smooth. The high quality polyester and double stitching ensures good weather protection that you can always count on.
The tent over-delivers in multiple outdoor occasions and with its low price tag, you will surely get good value for the money. It is a good quality outdoor tent that has a simple but highly functional style.
Pros and Cons
- It comes at an affordable price.
- It is very easy to set up.
- Not very durable.
3. Hyke & Byke Yosemite Backpacking Tents
Price: Low price tag.
Special features: Aluminum alloy stakes, reflective guy lines, Tension lock cord adjustments.
Dimensions: 88 x 54 x 45 inches & weighs 3.26 pounds.
Hyke and Byke is a brand that has been around making high quality outdoor gears that are very reliable. Their backpacking tent is designed to be spacious, convenient yet very lightweight. It is made using a 190T polyester which is both breathable and waterproof. Setting it up on any surface is easy, thanks to the accessories that comes with it.
The unique but classy design of the Hyke and Byke tent makes them so special and lovable by many people. If quality and convenience are a priority when searching for a backpacking tent, then this could be it.
Pros and Cons
- It is very lightweight and easy to carry.
- It is spacious and has a good head room.
- Some people have concerns with the durability of this tent.
2. Featherstone 2 Person Backpacking Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Micro-mesh fabric, Seam taped design.
Dimensions: 84 x 51 x 43 inches & weighs 4 pounds.
Featherstone is yet another brand that doesn’t disappoint. Made to be used as a 3-season outdoor tent, this is a good option that is sure to please many avid outdoor fans. It has a spacious interior that is fancies by many and offers tip top convenience that can’t be matched to most in the market.
This rugged backpacking tent is breathable, comfortable and designed with a condensation reducing design. Everything about this tent has been crafted to perfection. From its compact and lightweight nature to the convenience and reliability it brings, there is really nothing not to love in it.
Pros and Cons
- For the quality and reliability it brings, it offers good value for the money.
- It is sturdy and durable.
- Setting it up could be easier.
1. Kelty Salida Camping and Backpacking Tent
Price: Fairly priced.
Special features: Compact folding poles,
40D No-See-Um Mesh, Internal storage pockets.
Dimensions: 88 x 43 x 55 inches & weighs 4.57 pounds.
Kelty Salida Camping and Backpacking Tent is the best lightweight backpacking tent that one can get in the market. It’s the best rated across multiple online platforms, all thanks to the unmatched service that it delivers. The polyester tent is lightweight in nature and comes with internal storage pockets as well as ventilation mesh which makes it cool and convenient for almost any outdoor occasion.
If quality, comfort, convenience and value for your money is all you need in a backpacking tent, you will find them in this Kelty Salida tent. It is everything that an outdoors enthusiasts would want to have in their trip.
Pros and Cons
- Comes with a high customer rating.
- It is convenient and easy to use.
- It is durable, thanks to the solid construction.
- Tension stake is needed to use in rocky surfaces.
Choosing The Best Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Here are some of the most crucial things that one should consider when they are looking to invest in a good lightweight backpacking tent.
Weight & Ease Of Carrying
Knowing that you will be carrying all the weight of the tent in your backpack, weight is a crucial factor when choosing a tent. Backpacking tents are meant to be carried, and in some cases, they need to be carried over long distances. This can be a tough job if you have one that is heavy. That said, you should be looking for a tent that is lightweight and designed with portability in mind.
Durability & Weather Protection
The material used to make backpacking and camping tents vary from one to the other. This also means that they can be different in terms of durability and how it can endure tough environments where it can get scratched. A good backpacking tent should also be weatherproof and help you overcome, snow, rain, sun and any other environmental condition that you can come by when camping outdoors.
Space & Size of Tent
How many people can the tent accommodate? This is something that one needs to keep in mind because tents come in different sizes. Knowing the size of the tent and how much space it can create helps one to know beforehand whether they can comfortably accommodate other people in there. Most of the backpacking camping tents can accommodate from one person and up to 4 people.
Value For Money
Finally, and perhaps the most important factor that one needs to keep in mind is the price and value that they are getting. They come in different prices for different reasons. Some are made with heavy duty and expensive materials while some are made with luxurious styling that makes them pricier. All the other factors considered, one should always look at what they are getting and ensure that they are getting their money’s worth.
Final Thoughts
If you are an outdoor aficionado like us, then you know how tough it can get to find a good backpacking tent that you can count on. In most cases, you’d have to test the tent for yourself, and that can be costly if you are testing several. Luckily, we have done that for you, and our review of the best lightweight backpacking tents above should help you make an informed buying decision on the one to get.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a backpacking and a camping tent?
A: For many people who are still new in the outdoor arena, backpacking tents and camping tents can mean one and the same thing. While both of these types of tents can be used outdoors by anyone spending time outdoors, the naming is in the weight. Backpacking tents tend to be lighter than camping tents. Heavy fabrics can be used in camping tents but only lightweight materials like nylon and polyester are used to make lightweight backpacking tents.
Q: Do I need a backpacking tent?
A: If you are a backpacker or an outdoor enthusiast who expects to spend some times outdoor where it can get dark or experience a change in weather, then a backpacking tent should be top of your outdoor gear list. It will help you to get warm and cozy at night and when there is harsh weather like rainfall or snow.
Q: What materials are good for making backpacking tents?
A: Backpacking tents need to be lightweight, portable, tough, weatherproof and durable, which means getting one that is made using a high quality material that delivers. Some of the most reliable materials that have been used in making camping and backpacking tents includes polyester, coated nylon, and cuben fiber. These materials ensures that you have a lightweight, weatherproof and reliable tent for your outdoor excursions.
Q: How much should I pay for a backpacking tent?
A: Some of the things that determine the price of a tent includes the material toughness, ability to withstand tough conditions and the size of the tent. Larger tents with tough seams tend to be a bit pricier. You can expect to spend as low as $30 to $50 for an entry level standard tent and as much as $500 for premium backpacking tents with heavy duty construction.
