Choosing a tent to your thru-hike is an enormous deal, but it surely’s additionally in all probability the least hectic home-buying expertise you’ll have in your lifetime. Get pleasure from it. The perfect backpacking tents strike a stability between weight, value, sturdiness, livable area, ease of pitch, and stability.
Your tent must also be steady in snow, breathable in areas of excessive humidity, and waterproof. It’s best to be capable to comfortably hold your sleeping bag away from tent partitions to stop dampness, and likewise get out and in simply, sit up comfortably, and have sufficient area (if climbing with a companion) the place you don’t really feel such as you’re whacking them each time you progress or placed on a layer.
One notice earlier than we dig in: Within the curiosity of consistency, all listed weights beneath characterize the minimal path weight, which incorporates the tent itself, rain fly (if relevant), and poles (if relevant). It does NOT embody the load of stakes, stuff sacks, or a footprint.
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Greatest Backpacking Tents of 2025
Zpacks Duplex (All-Round Greatest Backpacking Tent)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Duplex.
MSRP: $669
Weight: 17.9 ounces
Class: Trekking-pole tent
Inside area: 28 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules
Variety of stakes required: 8
Greatest For: Ultralight hikers who need the spaciousness of a two-person tent with out the load, or pairs of ultralight hikers.
Why We Love This Tent
“For years the Zpacks Duplex has maintained its standing as some of the widespread and well-liked tents of thru-hikers — and for good purpose. It stands as one of many lightest and most sturdy two-person trekking pole shelters obtainable, completely suited to a whole summer season on the path. Single-wall DCF building retains the load low with out sacrificing energy or longevity, offering absolutely waterproof safety and a rugged bathtub ground that doesn’t require a groundsheet.
“And regardless of the low weight, the Duplex is spacious sufficient to comfortably match two hikers within the absolutely enclosed bug mesh whereas defending their gear within the two vestibules. The Duplex supplies full-sided safety when the climate will get nasty, and opens up on each side for views and air flow when the skies are clear. There will likely be loads of each on a thru-hike, and the perennially superior Duplex handles all of it with out weighing you down.” — Owen Eigenbrot
And it’s value including that the Duplex faces stiffer competitors than ever earlier than. There are a number of marginally completely different and wonderful tents which might be arguably higher, relying in your priorities and desires. That mentioned, the Duplex will likely be an all-around winner for many backpackers.
Zpacks has additionally cultivated a complete ecosystem of Duplex spinoffs that ought to fulfill nearly anybody with the money to burn. Different variations embody the Duplex Zip, Plex Solo, Triplex, and Triplex Zip. There’s additionally a pole package that turns the Duplex right into a storm-surfing freestanding tent.
The brand new 15 oz Duplex Lite deserves a particular callout. It’s simply 45 inches huge, which is pushing it for 2 individuals, however many Duplex customers are solitary thru-hikers who simply need a little bit extra space. The Lite model could be an ideal selection for that crowd.
Learn our evaluation of the Duplex Lite.
Options
- Mesh pockets: Two mesh inside pockets are positioned close to every display door and may be accessed from exterior the tent as nicely.
- 8-inch bathtub ground: The tall bathtub ground retains rain out even within the soggiest campsites
- All-in-one building and quick pitch: Tent physique and fly are one unit, with a quick (and dry) pitch utilizing two trekking poles. When you’ve pitched this a number of instances, it’s straightforward to get it taut.
- 48-inch peak top: Only a few individuals will likely be too tall to sit down up in right here.
- Rugged DCF building: Naturally waterproof supplies and taped seams imply no DWR end or after-market seam sealing is required.
No one’s Excellent
“The key criticisms of the Duplex are shared throughout all ultralight trekking pole shelters. As with most of those, the Duplex takes some getting used to. One should discover a stability between trekking poles and man strains, which may be difficult and adjustments each evening … On some terrain, discovering a big sufficient flat spot that accepts stakes is usually a chore. Condensation can also be a persistent subject on nights when the storm doorways are closed, and the A-frame partitions make it inconceivable to keep away from brushing in opposition to this moisture. The worth tag is hefty, albeit honest.” — Owen Eigenbrot
“The Duplex additionally requires eight stakes to get enough rigidity. “The big, sq. panel strikes an excessive amount of to really use in any wind with out (the additional two stakes). This massive sq. panel is among the main downsides of this tent.” — GPS
Greatest All-Round Tent Honorable Mentions:
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Massive Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 (Greatest Semi-Freestanding Tent)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Massive Agnes Tiger Wall
MSRP: $449.95
Weight: 35 ounces
Class: Semi-freestanding
Inside area: 28 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules (8 sq. toes every)
Variety of stakes required: 4 – 9
Greatest For: Pairs of weight-conscious thru-hikers who need a quick pitch and two entrances.
Why We Love This Tent
This tent combines the perfect options of the Fly Creek and the Copper Spur. The Tiger Wall is an analogous dimension to the Fly Creek, however the horizontal spreader bar permits for extra shoulder room, plus two doorways and two vestibules, which make it simpler to share. It’s seven ounces lighter than the Copper Spur (and cheaper, too) however has extra shoulder area than the Fly Creek.
Since 2021, Massive Agnes has manufactured the Tiger Wall with high-quality solution-dyed material that’s proof against UV fade and conserves water and vitality throughout manufacture. It’s not the lightest semi-freestanding tent in the marketplace — that honor belongs to the Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo at simply 27 ounces — but it surely’s comparatively inexpensive and supplies a little bit extra residing area.
“To me, the Fly Creek was already the most effective backpacking tents on the market, and the Tiger Wall solves all the problems I had with that tent (extra headroom, handy aspect doorways) whereas retaining the sturdiness, compactness, and ease of use — all with a comparatively minimal weight penalty.” — Kelly Floro
Discover the Tiger Wall Platinum right here, Tiger Wall UL 1 right here, and Tiger Wall UL 3 right here.
Options
- Structured corners: This implies the bath ground has a number of additional inches of vertical construction within the corners, which may give you extra space to maintain your sleeping bag and toes away from the tent partitions
- Dry-door entry: A couple of inches of area extending over the door means the inside of the tent can keep drier throughout setup and exits throughout wet nights.
- Inside pockets: A big ceiling pocket can maintain a headlamp for some *~*ambient lighting*~* and media pockets alongside the aspect are excellent for stashing small gadgets.
- Shade-coded buckles: Positive, you possibly can nonetheless mess up clipping the fly to the tent physique, but it surely’s more durable to do with the color-coded buckles.
No one’s Excellent
The vestibules may be exhausting to crawl out and in of, and the rain fly can get snagged on the zipper. It’s a tad smaller than the Copper Spur with much less foot room, however once more, it is available in seven ounces lighter. Like all freestanding tents, it’s a body-first pitch, which suggests your tent inside will likely be uncovered to rain when pitching till you possibly can arrange the fly. The Platinum model of the Tiger Wall is lighter, however the worth tags are traumatic. Decide your poison.
Watch our video evaluation of the Tiger Wall right here.
Greatest Ultralight Freestanding Tent Honorable Mentions:
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Gossamer Gear The One (Greatest Mix of Weight, Value, and Perform)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Gossamer Gear The One
MSRP: $255
Weight: 17.7 ounces
Inside area: 16 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 1 door, 1 vestibule (10 sq. toes)
Variety of stakes required: 6 – 12
Greatest For: Ultralight solo hikers who worth area, low value, and low weight.
Why We Love This Tent
The One is a solo-hiker fave that tops ultralight gear roundups throughout the board —together with our annual AT thru-hiker survey, the place it ceaselessly takes dwelling the title for the most well-liked one-person tent. It’s light-weight, spacious, and inexpensive — much more so after Gossamer Gear lately diminished the worth.
The setup is comparatively easy for a trekking pole shelter, and the venting design helps forestall a few of the condensation points that come up with single-wall shelters. The highest bar is huge sufficient to supply ample shoulder room, one thing that may really feel missing in solo shelters. This can be a one-piece shelter that units up with a minimal of six stakes and two trekking poles.
Whereas we consider that there are different tents doubtlessly extra deserving of a “Greatest One-Individual Ultralight Tent” award, the low weight and cut price worth are a mixture that’s too good to disregard. The One makes some vital compromises, however if you need an inexpensive ultralight possibility with room to spare, it is perhaps the one for you.
Options
- Aspect-wall tie-outs: If you wish to put within the additional effort to man out the aspect partitions for extra rigidity (advisable), the choice is there.
- Straightforward side-entry: Each doorways open for max airflow.
- Fast pitch: All trekking pole shelters (OK, all shelters typically) take some apply to get proper, however this is among the much less finicky trekking pole choices to pitch.
No one’s Excellent
A few of our taller customers had bother protecting their toes away from the partitions of the tent. Moreover, a number of contributors in our annual Appalachian Path Via-Hiker Survey have mentioned The One had a bent to leak (and presumably additionally sag, because it’s silnylon) within the rain. And The One’s square-panel design won’t carry out as nicely in wind as tents with triangular panels.
Take a look at our opinions of Gossamer Gear’s The Two, The DCF One, and The DCF Two.
Greatest Mix of Weight, Value, and Perform Honorable Point out:
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Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Durston X-Mid
MSRP: $240 1P | $280 2P
Weight: 28 oz 1P | 35.4 oz 2P
Class: Trekking pole tent
Inside area: 20 sq. toes 1P | 33.2 sq. toes 2P
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules
Variety of stakes required: 4 – 8
Greatest For: Solo or paired hikers who need an inexpensive, spacious, double-wall + trekking pole setup made with the best high quality supplies and strategies.
Why We Love This Tent
The X-Mid was among the many prime tents in our annual thru-hiking survey final yr, and its recognition has solely continued to develop (keep tuned for the tent knowledge from the 2024 survey). This shelter has developed a loyal following since its days because the always-sold-out tent of legendary standing. It’s straightforward to see why.
Each the X-Mid 1 and X-Mid 2 are fairly light-weight, easy to pitch, and have loads of area, together with two doorways and vestibules — an opulent contact for a one-person shelter. And once we say loads of area, we imply it. The X-Mid lineup must be a best choice for any particular person or pair who worth residing area extremely. These items are enormous inside.
A laundry record of well-thought-out particulars makes these tents distinctive in tough climate: factory-taped seams, polyester material that doesn’t sag or take in water, steep roof panels that shed snow simply, a double-wall design and enormous mesh storm vents that decrease condensation impacts, and the fly units up first to maintain the tent inside dry.
Designer Dan Durston, who is probably the last word backpacking gear wonk, has thought by means of each facet of the design, and you may learn a radical clarification of his thought course of over on his web site. And on prime of all of it, it’s among the many least expensive tents on this record (particularly contemplating the truth that the X-Mid comes with eight stakes and factory-taped seams).
Whereas the X-Mid’s super-low worth will get undercut by some ultra-cheap outliers, we firmly consider that you simply can not discover a higher bang to your buck anyplace else within the universe. Heck, they ain’t the lightest tents, however if you happen to’re prepared to hold the additional weight of an X-Mid, it’s the perfect, or practically the perfect tent, throughout the board.
Oh wait, Durston additionally makes DCF variations of each X-Mids, the X-Mid Professional 1 and X-Mid Professional 2, for these with ultralight insanity. Like Zpacks, Durston presents a tent for practically each want and finances, and all of them rank close to the highest of their class. Should you’re out there for a trekking pole shelter, then one model of the X-Mid or one other must be close to the highest of your record.
Options
- Polyester-based design: In a market dominated by silnylon and Dyneema, Durston made the semi-unusual option to go for silicone-coated polyester (silpoly). Why? It’s cheaper than Dyneema, and it gained’t sag or take in water like nylon. It’s additionally extra UV-resistant than nylon. For reference, Six Moon Designs additionally makes use of silpoly within the Lunar Solo, and extra tent producers are anticipated to make the swap in coming years as its advantages change into extra well known.
- Fly pitches first: … and will get taken down final. Which means the inside of the tent will keep dry and comfy in wet climate.
- Double-wall: For hikers who need the load financial savings and ease of a trekking pole setup with the air flow benefits of a double-wall, the X-Mid is certainly one of only a handful of choices. Giant mesh vents additional improve airflow. Permits fly-only pitch.
- Twin aspect doorways and vestibules: Because of the X-Mid’s eponymous X-shaped structure, the place the tent ground is oriented diagonally to that of the fly, even the single-wall model presents ample vestibules and doorways on each side.
- Double-sewn seams: Enhance the tent’s sturdiness and communicate to the general high quality and a spotlight to element of this design. The X-Mid can also be designed to reduce the overall variety of seams, which improves waterproofness, sturdiness, and weight effectivity.
No one’s Excellent
The key criticisms of the X-Mid are that it’s difficult to arrange and that it has a pretty big footprint. You want 46.5 sq. toes below the fly for the X-Mid 1, which may make campsite choice difficult. It is usually much less accommodating of uneven floor than another trekking pole tents, which may once more restrict appropriate campsite availability.
Take a look at our interview with Dan Durston on Backpacker Radio.
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Zpacks Free Zip 2 | Lightest Freestanding Tent
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Free Zip
MSRP: $899
Weight: 31.6 ounces
Class: Freestanding
Inside area: 26.3 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules (13 inches deep every)
Variety of stakes required: 0-8
Greatest For: Ultralight tenters who don’t need a fussy setup
Why We Love This Tent
The Free Zip is well the lightest true freestanding tent in the marketplace. Semi-freestanding fashions just like the TarpTent Double Rainbow Li are even lighter, however they require stakes or within the Double Rainbow’s case, some fancy finagling of trekking poles) to arrange correctly. In distinction, you possibly can pitch the Free Zip with zero stakes (although at the very least two for the vestibules are advisable).
Setup is quick and simple, and also you’re assured an ideal, taut pitch each time. For hikers who don’t use trekking poles or wish to camp on bedrock, pavement, deep sand, or different surfaces that don’t play good with stakes, it’s a no brainer.
The Free Zip replaces the Free Duo. The design could be very related, however the pole structure has been modified, and the brand new model options zippable storm doorways as an alternative of the outdated overlapping system. For what it’s value, right here’s what Owen needed to say in regards to the Free Duo (our evaluation of the Free Zip is forthcoming):
“The Free Duo combines the perfect options of Zpacks’ DCF shelter line with the practicality of a standard freestanding tent. It requires zero stakes to pitch (although two for the vestibules are advisable), which suggests it will possibly go the place trekking pole shelters can’t; naked rock, deep sand, tent platforms, a car parking zone, or different stake-rejecting floor. The only-wall building makes setup fast and simple — no fly sheet or footprint wanted.
“… The waterproof DCF cover pitches taut each time, which reduces wind noise and will increase residing area. Two vestibules present ample storage for gear, and absolutely enclosed mesh retains out the bugs even on good nights when the storm doorways are furled. Regardless of being each straightforward to make use of and supremely livable for 2 hikers, the Free Duo weighs in at below two kilos. Not solely is it the lightest freestanding tent obtainable, it’s additionally the most effective.” — Owen Eigenbrot
Options
- Heavy-duty Easton Carbon 6.3 poles: The distinctive double-X pole structure supplies a really steady body, particularly in excessive wind. For many who have used Zpacks’ Duplex Flex pole adapters previously, the Free Zip poles are thicker and stronger. They fold right down to 12 inches in size, aiding packability.
- Two rainbow doorways: With no trekking poles in the best way, the full-wall doorways on both aspect of the tent make entry and exit straightforward irrespective of which aspect you’re on. Good for a fast getaway when nature calls.
- Vestibules: The vestibules are traditional Zpacks with two storm doorways on either side. Shut all of them up for heat or rain safety, or open them up after consuming beans for dinner to enhance air flow.
- Small footprint: With no stakes or man strains, the Free Zip nestles nicely into smaller camp spots that may reject trekking pole shelters.
No one’s Excellent
The elephant within the room is the Free Zip’s eye-watering $900 price ticket. The truth that that is the lightest freestanding tent in the marketplace does set it aside, however does it ship sufficient worth to justify that value for the common hiker? In spite of everything, although it is perhaps lightest-in-class, it will possibly’t compete with trekking pole tents within the weight division.
One other downside is that with simply 44 inches of inside width, this factor is terribly cramped for 2 individuals. If even certainly one of you has a large sleeping pad, it’s sport over. Lastly, the Free Zip is topic to the identical condensation points as all different single-wall tent designs.
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Zpacks Plex Solo Lite (Lightest Absolutely Enclosed Tent)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Plex Solo Lite
MSRP: $599
Class: Trekking pole tent
Inside area: 20.6 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 1 door, 1 vestibule
Variety of stakes required: 6 – 10
Greatest For: Ultralight tenters who need the lightest
Why We Love This Tent
For solo hikers who’re in search of the lightest shelter that gives full safety from bugs and climate, this single-pole DCF tent from Zpacks is the one. Not solely is the DCF extraordinarily light-weight, but it surely’s additionally sturdy sufficient for a whole thru-hike whereas protecting a fortunate hiker well-protected in even the worst circumstances. Moreover, although DCF is bulkier than different materials, the Plex Solo Lite is tiny when packed and simply carried in an exterior backpack pocket.
Whereas it might sound loopy to sacrifice the residing area of some bigger tents that solely weigh a number of ounces extra, the small footprint helps the Plex Solo slot in even essentially the most restricted campsites, and the single-pole setup is refreshingly straightforward to deal with alone.
The odd form would possibly look intimidating, however as soon as we obtained the hold of it, Owen pitched his Plex Solo Traditional in below 5 minutes. Should you’ve ever arrange a single-pole tent earlier than, you gained’t discover something dramatically completely different on this setup. “It arrange as anticipated for a one-pole tent with relative ease,” mentioned reviewer Kate of her Plex Solo Lite.
And talking of residing area, the Plex Solo Lite has loads of it for one. The oddly formed bathtub ground contains sufficient room for a large sleeping pad and equipment, and the vestibule simply protects no matter is just too soggy for snuggling.
Final yr we advisable the OG Plex Solo Traditional; since then, we’ve had an opportunity to check the Lite model, which is nearly 3 ounces lighter for a similar dimensions and worth.
Excessive ultralighters on the western trails won’t want the included bug safety of the Plex Solo and so would possibly select a tarp or a floorless design just like the Gossamer Gear DCF Whisper as an alternative. However for anybody who doesn’t wish to fear about questionable circumstances, this tent has you coated. Straightforward setup, straightforward safety, each time.
If you’re a taller hiker, the Zpacks Altaplex is actually the identical tent, however longer and taller.
Options
- DCF Development: This isn’t an ideal materials, but it surely presents lots of advantages to hikers who can afford it. Along with its remarkably low weight, DCF is tremendous robust and doesn’t sag or take in water when damp. This makes a taught pitch extra achievable and drying simpler.
- Single Door and Vestibule: With just one particular person to accommodate, the Plex Solo has only a single door and vestibule. This makes it tougher to create a cross-breeze on heat nights, however the huge opening nonetheless permits ample entry and mega views, supplied it’s oriented correctly. Dawn or sundown?
- Asymmetrical Form: This tent is definitely symmetric head to foot, however ignoring that, the footprint is a posh conglomeration of obtuse angles. Nonetheless, it really works. The off-center pole marks the border between the one vestibule and the ground.
No one’s Excellent
The advanced geometry of the Plex Solo requires a ridiculous variety of stakes to fully rigidity. Six stakes will get it standing, however you’ll discover a place to make use of as much as 10, if you happen to even personal that many. Use all these stakes and the tent will likely be bomb-proof, however that’s lots of fiddling.
Whereas the height top is sort of tall, the design inevitably limits useable area up excessive. This shouldn’t come as a shock to anybody a single-pole shelter, however although the Plex Solo presents loads of area for one, it’s higher utilized whereas mendacity down. Shoulder room is tight, so put together to go loopy if a storm retains you inside for 12 hours straight.
Lastly, DCF single-wall tents all value lots and endure from condensation points. At $599, the Plex Solo Lite isn’t overpriced, it’s simply some huge cash. Funds-conscious hikers can discover a less expensive tent, albeit heavier and fewer superior.
Learn our opinions of the Zpacks Plex Solo Lite and Plex Solo Traditional.
Honorable Point out:
Zpacks Pivot Solo (extremely advisable by James, evaluation forthcoming)
3F UL Lanshan 1 Professional (Greatest Funds UL Tent)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: 3F UL Lanshan 1 Professional
MSRP: $169-$179
Weight: 24.26 ounces
Class: Trekking pole tent
Inside area: 24.7 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 1 door, 1 vestibule
Variety of stakes required: 6 – 9
Greatest For: Ultralight tenters on a finances
Why We Love This Tent
At nicely below $200, the Lanshan 1 Professional is essentially the most inexpensive tent on this record whereas remaining really ultralight at 26 ounces for the tent, guyline, and stuff sack. The Lanshan is fabricated from silylon with all guyout factors strengthened by UHMWPE-gridstop.
The place this tent shines, apart from the worth, is in versatility. Most thru-hikers will likely be OK with the usual three-season model of this tent, however there’s additionally a four-season model of the Lanshan for winter adventurers. Likewise, taller hikers can improve to the plus-size model, and stargazers who don’t thoughts a little bit additional weight can go for the double-wall Lanshan 1. Not like many UL producers, 3F UL ships all around the world, a boon for worldwide hikers.
Options
- Single or double wall: The Lanshan Professional is lightest as a single-wall tent with a roof vent to scale back condensation. However if you happen to desire the air flow and stargaze-ability of two partitions, the Lanshan 1 is your finest guess. You determine.
- Bolstered guyouts: All guyout factors are strengthened with UHMWPE-gridstop to stop tears.
- Absolutely built-in bathtub ground: The 4.3-inch-high bathtub ground is sewn to the primary tent physique with a band of no-see-um mesh.
No one’s Excellent
The Lanshan doesn’t come seam-sealed; you are able to do it your self or pay $35 to have 3F UL do it. The tent physique can also be fabricated from silnylon at a time when many producers are switching to silpoly, which doesn’t sag and stretch when moist the best way silnylon does. 3F UL is headquartered in China, which can be a draw back for US customers who purpose to buy nearer to dwelling. Lastly, the bath ground is just 4.3 inches excessive, which is … not a lot. For comparability, the Lunar Solo’s bathtub is six inches deep. You’ll be weak to splashback on this shallow tent.
Greatest Funds UL Tent Honorable Mentions:
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MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 (Greatest Tent for Tough Climate)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: MSR Hubba Hubba
MSRP: $549.95
Weight: 48 ounces
Class: Freestanding
Inside area: 32 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules
Variety of stakes required: 2-8
Greatest For: Pairs of hikers who need extra space/sturdiness/a real freestanding tent.
Why We Love This Tent
The latest iteration of the MSR Hubba Hubba is roomier by a number of sq. toes and is available in a cool new colorway. The Hubba Hubba’s weight has fluctuated through the years and improvements, but it surely’s been trending towards fewer ounces general. The true (non-tapered) rectangular ground and 40 inches of headroom make this tent really spacious.
The fly and tent physique supplies are heftier than different fashions of an analogous dimension, however the tradeoff is elevated sturdiness and fewer probability of the fly getting caught within the zipper. The poles are thicker than lighter-weight tents, so that you is usually a little rougher with this tent. The fly pitch is taut, however what actually sells us is the design for maximizing head, shoulder, and foot area in addition to the burlier supplies for sturdiness.
Discover the MSR Hubba Hubba LT 1 right here.
Options
- Secure, sturdy poles: It would take lots to make this tent collapse. Poles are Easton Syclone, that are ultra-rugged and might stand as much as some critical wind. The poles attain all 4 corners of this true freestanding tent, which improves wind stability as nicely.
- Proprietary waterproofing: Nothing will forestall condensation in excessive circumstances, however the DuraShield waterproofing and taped seams hold it dry from exterior precipitation. The vestibule doorways characteristic StayDry rain gutters to maintain you and your gear dry, and kickstand vents maximize airflow.
- Livable area: Talked about above, however the design — from head(area) to toe(area) has livability in thoughts.
No one’s Excellent
The tent does have a wise design, but it surely’s nonetheless 32 sq. toes of inside area for practically three kilos, which is considerably greater than different semi-freestanding tents on this record. You’re buying and selling weight financial savings for sturdiness. Relying on what kind of hiker you’re, this could possibly be value it. It’s additionally value noting that the tent physique has extra stable (non-mesh) panels, which is nice throughout storms however means fewer alternatives for stargazing on honest nights.
Learn our evaluation of the 2022 MSR Hubba Hubba 2 right here.
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Nemo Hornet Osmo 2 (Smallest Two-Individual Tent Footprint)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Nemo Hornet Osmo
MSRP: $430
Weight: 33 ounces
Class: Semi-freestanding
Inside area: 27.5 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules (7 sq. toes every)
Variety of stakes required: 5 – 10
Greatest For: Hikers who don’t want a lot area and need a narrower footprint for pitching in tight spots
Why We Love This Tent
The Hornet has a flexible footprint and might match into tighter areas than a few of the broader pitches. That is technically a semi-freestanding tent (just like the Tiger Wall) because the rear corners require staking. You’ll must stake out the footbox for a full pitch. The design is general just like the BA Tiger Wall, however the Hornet makes use of particular proprietary materials and shaves a few ounces because of its cut-out fly design.
NEMO maximizes headroom with their proprietary “Flybar” pole clip, which takes the place of the spreader bars of different tents. This helps hold the angle of the tent partitions away from the shoulders, permitting for extra sitting room and area to alter with out touching the edges of the tent.
The Hornet was up to date in 2023 with Nemo’s proprietary Osmo material, a ripstop nylon and polyester composite that’s presupposed to be extra water resistant and fewer more likely to sag when moist. Not like many waterproof supplies, Osmo comprises no dangerous PFOAs (generally known as endlessly chemical substances due to how sluggish they’re to interrupt down).
Should you actually wish to save weight, the Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo weighs a mere 27 ounces, prices $650, and has the identical inside area. Remarkably, that makes it the lightest semi-freestanding tent in the marketplace, and all with no scrap of DCF in sight.
Options
- Osmo material: Nemo claims it’s extra water-repellent and fewer more likely to sag when moist than prior variations of the tent.
- Single-hubbed pole system: Straightforward setup and pitch, light-weight poles are only one piece and have three anchor factors—two on the head, one on the foot.
- Flybar pole clip: As a substitute of a horizontal spreader bar, this tent comes with an prolonged pole clip so as to add headroom.
- Two side-entry doorways: Could be thought of vital for two-person tents.
No one’s Excellent
“This is among the smaller two-person semi-freestanding tents on this record. The Hornet is light-weight and steady, but it surely does have much less inside and vestibule area than the comparable BA Tiger Wall (which many customers already take into account cramped) and can really feel tight with two individuals after prolonged use.” — Maggie Slepian
Some customers additionally complain that the cut-out fly leaves the pinnacle and foot ends of the tent weak to backsplash throughout heavy rain.
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Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo (Greatest One-Pole Setup)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
MSRP: $260
Weight: 26 ounces
Class: Trekking-pole tent
Inside area: 26 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 1 door, 1 vestibule (8.5 sq. toes)
Variety of stakes required: 6 – 8
Greatest For: Ultralight solo hikers in search of a low-maintenance, sturdy shelter with a fast-pitch
Why We Love This Tent
“$260 is affordable for a backpacking tent. And but the standard of the Lunar Solo feels something however. This tent is optimized for optimum air flow: loads of mesh all through the construction and a spot between the fly and the bottom promotes airflow.
“It solely requires one trekking pole to arrange and has a beneficiant 49 inches of headroom on the peak. The steeply angled pitch of this tent helps it to shed snow successfully, making it really feel surprisingly steady for a construction that’s solely propped up by one pole.
SMD up to date the design from silnylon to much less saggy silpoly in 2019. One other replace on the finish of 2023 added nook wire guyouts for simpler rigidity adjustment.” — Kelly Floro
Options
- Middle pole pitch: This will increase the soundness of the tent in excessive winds and permits it to shed water extra simply
- (Nearly) solely mesh aspect wall: Ounce-saving mesh will increase breathability from the bath ground to the height (an extra 360˚ mesh strip simply above the bath provides to the tent’s breezy attraction.
- 6-inch floating bathtub ground: 40D silicone-coated polyester and the tent’s floating ground design maximize puncture resistance
- Inner mesh storage pocket: the drill. Set up your small gadgets for straightforward nighttime entry.
No one’s Excellent
The steep partitions of this shelter and single-pole setup imply much less shoulder room and extra wind resistance. Customers might want to seal the seams themselves or pay $35 for Six Moon Designs to seal the tent for $35 earlier than delivery if you happen to don’t wish to do it your self. Stakes aren’t included, so if you happen to don’t have some already, you’ll have to issue that into the acquisition worth as nicely.
The Lunar Solo has been a backpacking staple for a few years now, with the design staying roughly the identical since about 2012. On the one hand, I respect that Six Moons isn’t innovating its flagship merchandise to dying — why repair what ain’t broke? Then again, in an ultralight market that has seen substantial improvements in each design and supplies in recent times, the Lunar Solo dangers being left behind.
Learn our evaluation of the Lunar Solo right here.
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TarpTent ProTrail (Roomiest Vestibule)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: TarpTent ProTrail
MSRP: $239
Weight: 22 ounces
Class: Trekking pole tent
Inside area: 21 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 1 door, 1 vestibule (11.2 sq. toes)
Variety of stakes required: 4
Greatest For: Ounce-counting solo hikers
Why We Love This Tent
The standard and ever-popular silpoly ProTrail obtained a DCF replace in 2020, however we have already got lots of $500+ tents on this record. The usual model continues to be darn mild at a mere 22 ounces, however simply know {that a} 16-oz DCF model does exist you probably have cash to burn.
This A-frame shelter has a entrance entrance and a beneficiant overhang to stop gadgets within the gargantuan vestibule from getting moist. This can be a single-piece shelter with an built-in fly and tent physique, making a quick pitch when you get the hold of it. It has a 45-inch peak top on the entrance of the tent, with a steep pitch on the edges and down towards the again.
You have to two trekking poles for this setup, with the tallest one on the entrance entry, and simply 4 stakes. We suggest pitching the entrance pole at an angle to make entry/exit simpler. It has a hoop of 360-degree mesh and a rear mesh window for elevated airflow and views. The rugged floating bathtub means you theoretically don’t want a groundcloth with the Protrail Li, sparing you from additional weight and setup problem.
Options
- Bolstered pole caps: Numerous strain is placed on the hubs for trekking poles. These are strengthened for prolonged sturdiness
- Giant vestibule: The vestibule or “beak” space is 11 sq. toes, lots huge for gear group and maneuvering
- Quick pitch: Like all trekking-pole shelters, it takes a number of tries to dial within the system, however after you have it, the pitch is quick, particularly because you solely have to pound 4 stakes within the course of.
- Good air flow design: It’s a relentless battle to fight condensation in shelters like this, however storm flaps may be opened and rolled as much as permit most airflow.
- Bathtub ground: The floating bathtub ground is rugged and tall sufficient to guard from splashing rain.
No one’s Excellent
It takes two trekking poles to arrange, and the rear one must be set to only 24 inches, which is shorter than the minimal size of some poles. This will likely be particularly problematic for customers of z-folding poles, however even some telescoping poles don’t get that brief when absolutely collapsed.
Additionally, there’s lots of huge, flat floor space on this tent’s design that will increase wind resistance: pitch with the foot finish dealing with into the wind to mitigate this.
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LightHeart Gear SoLong (Greatest Tent for Tall Individuals)
Greatest backpacking tents for thru-hiking: LightHeart Gear SoLong
MSRP: $325
Weight: 32 ounces
Class: Trekking pole tent
Inside area: 30 sq. toes
Doorways / Vestibules: 2 doorways, 2 vestibules
Variety of stakes required: 6
Greatest For: Tall UL hikers
Why We Love This Tent
The ground of the SoLong is 100 inches lengthy. LightHeart says it’s SO LONG (100 inches, to be exact) that hikers taller than six-foot-eight will nonetheless sleep comfortably in it. It’s good that the Solong has an awning vestibule on one aspect: excellent if you need extra airflow or to benefit from the view from mattress with out sacrificing overhead safety. The tent likewise has two beneficiant peak vents to chop down on condensation. We additionally love LightHeart typically as a small, North Carolina-based, woman- and veteran-owned firm.
Options
- Eight-inch bathtub ground: A lot taller than common, nice for stopping splashback.
- Awning fly: One of many vestibules may be propped up with a carbon fiber pole to create an awning.
- Lateral ridge pole: Creates extra headroom and lateral stability throughout windstorms.
- Linelocs: For straightforward precision tensioning of all guyouts.
- 30D ripstop silnylon: Each fly and bathtub ground.
- Double-stitched seams: For added sturdiness.
No one’s Excellent
The awning requires a carbon fiber pole to arrange, which is bought individually and never factored into the bottom weight or worth of the tent. I suppose you might additionally use a brief trekking pole to set it up you probably have a 3rd one useful (the tent itself requires two).
Not essentially a real con, but it surely’s value noting that whereas the SoLong is additional lengthy, it’s not additional tall: the height is 45 inches tall, which is about typical for a backpacking tent.
Greatest Tent for Tall Individuals Honorable Point out:
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The Greatest Tents for Via-Mountain climbing for Via-Hikers: FAQs
What’s the distinction between freestanding and trekking pole tents?
The Zpacks Duplex is a traditional instance of a trekking pole shelter. Photograph courtesy Owen Eigenbrot.
Conventional tents have devoted poles to offer the shelter construction and physique. These tents will maintain their form with out the necessity for stakes, in order that they’re known as freestanding. (Be aware: even for freestanding tents, one or two stakes are sometimes required for the vestibule(s), and the usage of extra stakes will enhance your tent’s stormworthiness). The MSR Hubba Hubba is an efficient instance of a real freestanding tent. These shelters are easy to pitch, however the poles add each weight and bulk and are all the time liable to bending or snapping.
Trekking pole tents are as an alternative supported, clearly, by the person’s trekking poles. These tents are non-freestanding as a result of they require stakes to carry their form. The Zpacks Duplex is an efficient instance. Trekking pole tents are a lot more durable to arrange than their freestanding brethren, however by ditching the tent poles, you’ll save an enormous quantity of weight and area in your pack. Should you’re tenting on bedrock, snow, or one other medium that gained’t readily take stakes, you’re in bother. Deadman anchors, massive rocks, tree trunks, and different objects can be utilized instead of stakes in a pinch.
Some tents, just like the Massive Agnes Tiger Wall, are semi-freestanding: they’ve devoted poles that largely assist the tent, however they require stakes to offer the footbox construction. This hybrid method helps shave some ounces by simplifying the tent pole structure whereas retaining the straightforward setup benefit of true freestanding tents.
The Zpacks Free Duo is a uncommon instance of a single-wall, DCF, freestanding tent. Photograph courtesy Owen Eigenbrot.
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Ought to I am going with a two-person tent or a one-person tent?
It’s largely a matter of private desire, however we’ll level out that in accordance with our thru-hiker survey, two-person tents are much more widespread than their one-person counterparts (even amongst solo hikers). Most 1p shelters take that designation actually: they’re simply huge sufficient to accommodate a regular-sized human laying on their again with a number of inches of area on both aspect, and that’s it. This makes the tent as mild as potential, in fact, however can undoubtedly really feel cramped to some hikers.
Since your tent will likely be your private home for a number of months on the path, many solo thru-hikers select to improve to a 2p tent to allow them to have a bit extra room to unfold out. The bigger model of the tent often weighs a number of ounces extra and is dearer, however the tradeoff is value it for a lot of hikers. Equally, {couples} usually go along with a 3p tent.
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What’s the distinction between single-wall and double-wall tents?
Single-wall tents, just like the Zpacks Duplex, shave weight by eliminating the separate bug mesh. Single-wall designs are lighter and quicker to arrange when you get the hold of it. There’s no separate rainfly to fuss with as a result of the entire tent is waterproof: the rainfly is the tent. This additionally makes it method simpler and drier to arrange and take down camp in moist climate.
Then again, they’re usually poorly ventilated in comparison with their double-wall buddies (although some single-walls do higher than others). Condensation is among the greatest points with single-wall shelters, although double-walls aren’t proof against this subject both — the mesh simply retains the condensation from the rainfly at a slight distance from you and your stuff. Good campsite choice may also help to mitigate this.
READ NEXT – 9 Suggestions To Assist You Discover a Excellent Campsite Each Time
Most single-walled tents are additionally trekking pole setups, whereas most double-walled designs are freestanding, however this isn’t set in stone. Double-wall trekking pole shelters just like the Durston X-Mid and the Six Moon Designs Haven Tarp + NetTent combo do exist. As do single-wall freestanding tents just like the Zpacks Free Duo. Which fashion/mixture of kinds makes for the perfect backpacking tents for thru-hikers? It’s largely a matter of private desire.
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What options ought to I search for in the perfect backpacking tents?
The Massive Agnes Tiger Wall has mix of area and weight financial savings, plus it has an idiot-proof pitch. Photograph by way of Maggie Slepian.
Livable Area: A one-person tent is okay for ounce counters, however some hikers will respect a light-weight two-person tent for simply themselves. It would assist you to unfold out, keep away from the partitions, and hold your gear inside with you. For 2 individuals on a thru-hike, some two-person fashions will work wonderful, however usually pairs of hikers dimension up after a number of hundred miles of bumping into one another when sitting up or altering. Take into account inside area, vestibule area, and peak top.
Common Conveniences: Take into account that that is your private home for months at a time. What options would you like in your moveable home? Two doorways and two vestibules for multi-person tents will alleviate any crawling over one another throughout midnight cathole excursions. Inside aspect pockets are good for small gadgets. The perfect backpacking tents stability performance and weight.
Ease of Pitch: Take a look at your setup earlier than you permit. The very last thing you wish to be doing after an excruciating day on path is preventing together with your guylines to get the fly taut earlier than the rain is available in. Or pitching your tent within the mud simply to have it collapse on you a number of hours later.
Weight-to-Area Ratio: Positive, you have got 31 sq. toes of area, however your tent additionally weighs six kilos. Is that this value it? It is perhaps, and that’s OK. Then again, you might desire a 14-ounce, single-person trekking pole shelter and forgo the headroom. That’s wonderful too. Greater than seemingly you’ll wind up someplace within the center — most of the listed shelters have 27-29 sq. toes of inside area and weigh 2 – 3 kilos.
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What’s the distinction between “packaged weight” and “path weight?”
The packaged weight is the load of the tent plus every part that comes with it, together with directions, restore kits, stuff sacks, additional stakes, additional guyline … you get the image.
In distinction, the path weight (or minimal path weight) is the mixed weight of the tent physique, rainfly, and poles (if relevant). It does not embody the load of the stakes, footprint, or any additional guyline you would possibly select to hold.
As you possibly can see, each numbers give an incomplete concept of the load of your tent. This true weight will seemingly be someplace in between the packaged and path weights. Some cottage manufacturers, like Zpacks and Gossamer Gear, offers you an itemized breakdown of the person weights of every tent part right down to the smallest stuff sack, including much-needed readability to the tent-buying expertise.
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Sure and no. Individuals have efficiently camped footprint-free in all types of tents through the years. Nonetheless, the footprint (aka floor material) will extend the lifetime of your tent by defending the ground from moisture and abrasive, puncture-making stuff like rocks, sand, and twigs.
Annoyingly, most tent purchases don’t embody the footprint. After shelling out tons of of {dollars} for the tent, you then must fork over an extra $50 or $60 (plus a number of ounces of base weight) for the bottom material. Meh.
Instead, you can also make or purchase an affordable, light-weight Tyvek or Polycro floor material. Some tents, just like the Tarptent Protrail, have rugged, puncture-resistant bathtub flooring and don’t require a separate footprint.
The Lunar Solo doesn’t require a separate footprint (although it’s in all probability nonetheless a good suggestion on abrasive media like sand).
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What’s the distinction between silnylon, silpoly, and DCF?
Silnylon: Most conventional tents are fabricated from silicone-coated ripstop nylon, or silnylon. Silnylon is widespread as a result of it’s cheap, waterproof, fairly puncture-resistant, fairly light-weight, and packs up small. It tends to stretch out and sag when moist, making it robust to get a taut pitch. UV publicity additionally weakens it shortly.
Silnylon is offered in several weights, that are measured in models of deniers (d). The bigger the quantity, the harder (and heavier) the fabric. The ultralight Massive Agnes Tiger Wall makes use of skinny 15d silnylon, the SMD Lunar Solo makes use of 20d, and the burlier MSR Hubba Hubba makes use of 30d. A ripstop nylon backpack, in distinction, would possibly use 500d silnylon.
Silpoly: Silicone-coated polyester isn’t as robust as silnylon when new, however a rising faculty of thought says silpoly’s superior UV resistance makes it extra sturdy in the long term. It additionally gained’t sag when moist the best way silnylon does. Silpoly is rising increasingly more widespread within the UL tent world as the material know-how continues to enhance. Six Moon Designs, Durston, and TarpTent have all embraced it over silnylon.
DCF: DCF (Dyneema Composite Cloth) is the slicing fringe of ultralight materials. Initially designed to be used in sailboats, DCF is a particularly light-weight and robust nonwoven/laminated material and the darling of the cottage gear commerce. It’s fully waterproof and proof against each tears and stretching, although it will possibly nonetheless be punctured pretty simply. It’s straightforward to restore with a easy patch job, although. It additionally gained’t sag or take in water when moist.
The DCF One is Gossamer Gear’s replace on the unique silnylon model of The One. Photograph courtesy Carl Stanfield.
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Do I have to seam seal my tent?
Will depend on the model. Most huge model tents — Massive Agnes, REI, and so on. — have factory-taped seams and don’t require preliminary seam sealing. The manufacturing facility therapy can put on out after intensive use, so that you’ll finally must reseal them. Some cottage business tents, just like the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo, don’t come seam-sealed to maintain the worth decrease. You’ll be able to pay a little bit additional for seam sealing service or lower your expenses and do it your self.
Luckily, seam sealer is broadly obtainable at tenting and {hardware} shops and is straightforward to make use of. Simply arrange your tent (in a dry, non-dusty, non-windy place), make sure that the seams are clear and dry, and paint seam sealer over all seams that don’t adjoin mesh paneling. Depart the tent arrange for a number of hours till the sealant has dried fully.
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Backpacking Tent Options
I wrestled with the potential for together with some enjoyable non-tents and pseudo-tents this yr, just like the Gossamer Gear DCF Whisper (mainly a floor-less tent for lower than 10 ounces) or the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape (11-ounce tarp that doubles as a rain poncho). I made a decision in opposition to it, however I do wish to notice that tents aren’t your solely choices.
Many ultralight fans favor lighter choices, like tarps, which give climate safety however no bug safety, or bivy sacks, which give full safety however are fairly claustrophobic. Hammocks aren’t essentially lighter than tents and are heavier in lots of circumstances, however some hikers discover them extra comfy. A hammock is a superb possibility while you’re climbing someplace with numerous timber. In the meantime, tarps are superior while you anticipate pretty steady climate and never too many bugs.
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Why must you belief us?
As a result of we’re so extremely clever, in fact! Engaging, too. (To not point out extraordinarily humble).
But when that isn’t sufficient to impress you, there’s additionally the truth that everybody who contributed to this text is an skilled thru-hiker with 1000’s of on-trail miles below their belt. We’re gear nerds who love placing our tools to the check on trails lengthy and brief, and we’ve examined dozens of tents in pursuit of a greater evening’s sleep within the backcountry.
Furthermore, we survey tons of of Appalachian Path thru-hikers yearly to study their behaviors, demographics, and—you guessed it—gear preferences. Which means our picks for the perfect backpacking tents aren’t simply our opinions. This record relies on years of suggestions from the thru-hiking group.
<em>Take a look at AT hikers’ picks for the perfect backpacking tents from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 thru-hiker surveys or browse surveys from all years right here.
Competence and backpacking proficiency personified.
Authentic article by Maggie Slepian. Alex “GPS” Brown and Rachel Shoemaker contributed to the 2023 replace of this record. Owen Eigenbrot up to date for 2024.
Featured picture: Graphic design by Chris Helm (@chris.helm).
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