Lightweight and Durable: Best Backpacking Tents Reviewed

Over the last ten years, our gear experts have put over 50 backpacking tents to the test. We checked out top brands such as Big Agnes, Zpacks, NEMO, MSR, and REI.¹ Through this, we found the best tents that mix lightweight design, durability, and weather protection. This review will dive into the top backpacking tents. It aims to help you pick the right one for your next big outdoor experience.

Key Takeaways

We've tested a wide variety of backpacking tents from leading outdoor brands to identify the best options.
The article focuses on lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant tents that cater to diverse needs and budgets.
Top-rated models like the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2², SlingFin Portal 2³, and Zpacks Duplex Zip¹ are thoroughly evaluated.
Factors such as weight, interior space, and ease of setup are considered to help you choose the perfect backpacking tent.
Whether you're a casual adventurer or a seasoned thru-hiker, this article has you covered with the best backpacking tent recommendations.

Introduction

Choosing the perfect backpacking tent is key for a comfy and fun outdoor experience. We consider factors like weight, durability, and livability when starting our hiking or camping trips.³

Importance of Choosing the Right Backpacking Tent

Your backpacking tent determines how comfortable and successful your trip will be. The right tent offers shelter, safety, and enough space for a good night's sleep. But, the wrong one can bring discomfort, safety risks, and a bad trip.⁴

Factors to Consider: Weight, Durability, Livability

We look closely at several key aspects when picking a backpacking tent. The tent’s weight matters a lot. A light tent makes a hiker's life easier, especially over long hikes. Durability ensures the tent can handle various weather conditions and many trips. Then, livability considers how comfortable the tent's inside is.³⁴⁵

We balance these factors to choose the best backpacking tent for our needs. Whether it’s a super light shelter, a tough tent for extreme conditions, or a budget option for leisure trips.⁵

Top Picks for Best Backpacking Tents

We've chosen the best backpacking tents for outdoor lovers. Our picks include everything from ultra-light to all-season options. You can read about the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, SlingFin Portal 2, Zpacks Duplex Zip, REI Co-op Trail Hut 2, and MSR Access 2.

Each tent stands out for different reasons. So, whether you want lightness, great weather protection, or value, we've got you covered. Our list ensures you find the right tent for your adventures.

Tent Model	Overall Score	Total Weight	Price
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2	77/100³	3 lb. 2 oz²	$530²
SlingFin Portal 2	79/100³	3.34 lbs³	N/A
Zpacks Duplex Zip	N/A	1 lb. 4.4 oz²	$729²
REI Co-op Trail Hut 2	N/A	5 lb. 15 oz²	$229²
MSR Access 2	N/A	4 lb. 1 oz²	$800²

Our top tent picks cater to every outdoor fan. We looked at weight, strength, comfort, and performance to select them. These are the best tents for your next journey.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is a standout choice for backpacking. It blends lightness with a design that stands without needing to be staked down.⁶ It weighs less than three pounds and has 26 square feet inside, big enough for two people. Plus, you get two nine-square-foot spots to keep your gear.⁶

Ultralight and Freestanding Design

It's easy to set up and stays put well, even on different types of ground. This makes it perfect for those who love to hike with everything they need on their back.⁶ It folds up to just 20 x 6 inches, fitting easily into your backpack.⁶

Ample Interior Space and Headroom

This tent doesn't just give you room to move; it also has plenty of space above your head. There's almost 13 square feet of headroom and it reaches 40 inches high at its peak.⁶ You can sit and kneel inside comfortably, which makes camping more enjoyable.⁶

Quality Construction and Easy Setup

The tent is built to last, using strong materials and smart designs.⁶ Setting it up is a piece of cake, thanks to the color-coded poles. This is great for anyone, whether you're new to camping or not.⁶

Some people might worry that being light means it won't be durable, but that's not the case for this tent. It's well-ventilated and ready for different weather. This makes it ideal for hiking alone or with someone.⁶ You get a lot of space and headroom for each pound it weighs, showing it's worth its price.⁶

It sells for $579.95, putting it in the top tier of backpacking tents. It's a good deal compared to tents like the Copper Spur HV UL2 mtnGLO® at $599.95.⁷ With a total rating of 77 and solid marks for comfort at 7.5, the Copper Spur HV UL2 is a wise investment.³

This tent stands out from the competition with more space, headroom, and extras per pound. It has 18 square feet of covered outdoor space, eight pockets inside, and more features that make camping easier.³

SlingFin Portal 2

The SlingFin Portal 2 stands out for backpackers. It's top-notch in fighting weather and is tough yet light.⁸ Outdoor Gear Lab hailed it a “Top Pick” of 2023. It's often named the “Best Bomber Tent” by Adventure Alan.⁸ Its strong structure, with many guylines and supports, makes it great for tough weather.

This robust design is perfect for backpackers facing extreme conditions.⁹

Exceptional Weather Resistance

The SlingFin Portal 2 is tough against the elements but won't burden you.⁸ It's SlingFin's lightest tent at 2 pounds 14 ounces.⁸ The use of 10D and 20D ripstop nylon adds to its endurance.⁹

This tent can be set up with the fly first to keep the inside dry when it's wet outside.⁸ Its 44-inch ceiling gives you plenty of headspace.⁸

Durable and Lightweight Construction

The SlingFin Portal 2 is not just great against weather, it's also light and robust.⁹ Weighing about 3.34 pounds, it offers a lot of space and headroom.⁹ It has many connection points and stakes for a solid pitch in any weather.⁹

It even has adjustable kickstand vents for better airflow and lots of guy points for windy days.⁹

For any long backpacking trek or outdoor adventure, the SlingFin Portal 2 is a solid pick. It's built to handle rough weather yet is refreshingly light.⁸⁹

Best Backpacking Tents

Balancing Weight, Comfort, and Features

Picking the top backpacking tent is about balancing weight, comfort, and features. There are many options to meet different needs and budgets. You’ll find everything from super light to more spacious types. It all depends on what you value most and what you need for your trips outdoors.

Diverse Options for Different Needs and Budgets

If you hike a lot, you might want a very light tent. Or if you camp only sometimes, you might look for something roomier. Brands like Big Agnes, SlingFin, Zpacks, REI, and MSR have varied options.³ For example, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is light and roomy, while the REI Co-op Trailmade 2 is affordable and sturdy.

We have studied these tents carefully on their weight, comfort, and features. Knowing what’s most important to you can help pick the perfect tent. It will make your time outdoors much better.

Tent Model	Weight	Dimensions	Price	Overall Score	Key Features
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2	3.81 lbs³	89 L x 68/59 W x 43 H inches³	$406 (Amazon)³, $580 (Backcountry)³	86³	Ultralight, freestanding design, 9.5 space-to-weight ratio, 3-day rainstorm waterproof performance³
SlingFin Portal 2	3.34 lbs	90 L x 51/42 W x 44 H inches	N/A	79	Exceptional weather resistance, 27.7 sq ft living space
NEMO Aurora 2	5.51 lbs	84 L x 52 W x 44 H inches	$300 (REI and Backcountry)	68	Comfortable 9.5 Comfort rating, 44-inch peak height
REI Co-op Trailmade 2	5.65 lbs³	87 L x 50 W x 40 H inches³	$199 (REI)³	53³	Affordable, durable heavy-duty polyester fabric³
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2	N/A	N/A	$371 (Amazon)³, $530 (Backcountry)³, Check price (REI)³	77³	Comfort-to-weight ratio of 7.5³

Ultralight Tents: Zpacks Duplex Zip

The Zpacks Duplex Zip is top-tier in ultralight backpacking. It uses the light but strong Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF). This fabric is waterproof and strong. It's perfect for those seeking minimal weight on the trail.

Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) Construction

The heart of the Zpacks Duplex Zip is Dyneema Composite Fabric. It's strong, waterproof, and light. Perfect for the dedicated ultralight backpacking fan.¹⁰

Trekking Pole-Supported Design

This tent uses your trekking poles, aiding its lightweight nature.¹⁰ It's set up with two poles about 48″ (122 cm). This makes it both light and sturdy, giving you a safe, cozy spot in the outdoors.¹⁰

It needs six stakes normally, but eight are best if it's windy.¹⁰¹¹ Its footprint size is great for tough-to-find spots. This design advantage lets you camp in more places.¹⁰¹¹

The 53″ x 100″ (135 x 254 cm) layout is great for two people. It has a roomy sewn-in floor for comfort and storage.¹⁰¹¹

Its peak height is 48″ (122 cm) with a roomy 93″ width (236 cm).¹⁰¹¹ Inside, it's 45″ wide with a 7.5 feet long space. Packing it is easy, it fits in a small space.¹⁰¹¹

The Zpacks Duplex Zip is loved by hikers and campers wanting light, tough gear. It comes with a two-year warranty and is made in the USA. A true mark of quality and innovation in ultralight tents.

Budget-Friendly Options: REI Co-op Trail Hut 2

The REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 is great for those on a budget. It costs $199, making it affordable for anyone looking to go backpacking. This tent is perfect for casual hikers who still want quality and durability¹².

Affordable and Durable

This tent is a bit heavier than pricier models, weighing at 5 pounds 15 ounces¹². However, its tough 66-denier floor and canopy, along with a 68-denier rain fly, offer good durability¹². So, you get both affordability and a tent that will last, making it ideal for those watching their wallet.

Suitable for Casual Backpackers

The Trail Hut 2 is roomy, fitting two people easily with its 88 x 52-inch space¹². It's not super light, but it's still a good fit for casual adventurers. The tent's packed size can also shrink down with smart folding, keeping it easy to carry¹². Plus, it's simple to set up and has good airflow, which is nice for beginners outside.

If you want to save money on a REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 but still get the main tent benefits, this tent is a solid pick. It does a good job of balancing price, quality, and comfort, making it especially fitting for those who like to explore but are budget-minded.

Feature	REI Co-op Trail Hut 2	REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+
Price	$199¹²	$349¹²
Weight	5 lbs 15 oz¹²	Slightly lighter than Trail Hut 2¹²
Dimensions	88 x 52 inches¹²	Slightly larger than Trail Hut 2¹²
Packed Size	8 x 18 inches, can be compressed¹²	Not specified
Fabric	66-denier floor and canopy, 68-denier rain fly¹²	Not specified
Ventilation	Adequate for most trail conditions¹²	Not specified
Storage	Two vestibules, each offering 9.5 sq ft¹²	Not specified
Setup	Straightforward and user-friendly¹²	Not specified

There's a bigger model available too, the Trail Hut 4. It has a 90 x 88-inch floor, great for more people or bigger groups. So, if you need more room, this version is a good fit¹².

All in all, the REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 is a strong pick for those who want quality at a lower cost. It's designed for those who like to hike and camp without spending too much. It's a choice that won't empty your wallet but still offers a good camping experience.

All-Season Tents: MSR Access 2

When weather takes a turn or you're facing tougher conditions, the MSR Access 2 stands out. It's built sturdy, aiming to keep you dry and safe from the elements. This makes it perfect for adventurers expecting heavy rain, strong winds, or snow.¹³

Burly Construction for Harsh Conditions

The MSR Access 2 is made for outdoor enthusiasts. Its ripstop nylon and DWR finish work together to keep the inside dry and limit condensation.¹³ The tent's carbon fiber poles are light yet strong. They help the tent hold its own in rough weather. The tent fly clips to the body using D-rings, aiding stability in the wind.¹³

Balancing Weight and Weather Protection

The Access 2 weighs 4 pounds and 1 ounce. It's not the lightest, but it gives excellent weather protection for its weight.¹³ Its size, 84″ x 50″ floor area, fits a person up to 6'2″ with space for another without feeling tight.¹³

This tent has small vestibules for gear, keeping things dry under the rainfly. Yet, it could use more inside pockets for small items. The stakes it comes with might not be great in soft snow. You might need to find better ones for snowy conditions.¹³

Overall, the MSR Access 2 is great for those wanting a tough, yet versatile tent. It's an excellent choice for backpackers exploring challenging all-season environments.

Conclusion

Choosing the best backpacking tent is key to a great outdoor trip. We've looked at many types, from light and cheap to ones you can use all year. Think about weight, how strong it is, and how comfortable you'll be when picking your tent. These elements are vital in finding the perfect tent for your adventure.¹⁴

Whether you hike a lot or just sometimes, there's a perfect tent out there for you. Companies like North Face, Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, and REI offer many options. Understanding what features the best tents have will help you choose wisely. This will make your hiking and camping experience better.¹⁴

When you're ready for your next adventure, take your time to pick the right tent. Look for one that's not too heavy, but strong and comfy. The right tent will make your trip amazing, letting you enjoy nature fully.

FAQ

What are the key factors to consider when choosing a backpacking tent?

When choosing a backpacking tent, consider its weight, durability, and how livable it is. A light tent is vital for hikers going long distances, keeping their packs lighter. Durability ensures your tent lasts through various trips and weather. Check its livability for a comfortable sleep under the stars.

What are the best overall backpacking tents featured in the article?

Top backpacking tents include the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, SlingFin Portal 2, Zpacks Duplex Zip, REI Co-op Trail Hut 2, and MSR Access 2. These choices meet different needs and preferences, offering a variety of features for campers.

What makes the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 the best overall backpacking tent?

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 stands out as the best. It's ultralight and sets up easily, securing well on various grounds. This tent comfortably fits two and is well-made, promising many camping trips without failing.

What makes the SlingFin Portal 2 a top choice for weather resistance?

The SlingFin Portal 2 excels in weather resistance. Its design can stand strong in tough weather, great for those who brave unpredictable elements. It's a top pick for its durability and lightweight build.

What makes the Zpacks Duplex Zip the best ultralight backpacking tent?

The Zpacks Duplex Zip is top for being ultralight. It uses Dyneema, a strong material that's waterproof and light. Its design, supported by trekking poles, keeps it light yet stable.

What makes the REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 a budget-friendly option for backpacking?

The REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 is a great value. It's affordable and sturdy, good for those not needing the fanciest features. This tent is a solid choice for those on a budget.

What makes the MSR Access 2 an exceptional all-season backpacking tent?

The MSR Access 2 is called a top all-season tent. It's built to handle harsh weather, protecting campers from rain, wind, and snow. Though not the lightest, it offers top-notch protection for adventurers heading to more extreme places.