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Finest Ultralight Tents for Through Climbing & Backpacking [2024]


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It is a gear evaluation about one of the best ultralight tents for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2024.

The Finest Backpacking tents of 2024 are getting higher, lighter, and extra compact. This yr a lot of the large firms akin to NEMO, Large Agnes, Zpacks, Six Moon Designs, and Hyperlite Mountain Gear have superior additional mild variations of their fashionable backpacking ultralight tents.

In 2024 there is no such thing as a want to have a look at heavy tents except you propose on mountaineering or visiting the windy excessive latitudes, then you will want 4 Season Winter Tents.

Some ultralight hikers may even desire an Ultralight Tarp to chop their base weight down as little as potential. However for many hikers, a light-weight backpacking tent is the best choice so I’ve additionally included one of the best backpacking tents.

In case you are available in the market for a brand new tent there are a lot of choices. A great high quality tent will likely be a compromise on value, weight, sturdiness, and dimension however its major operate is to maintain you dry and cozy. I’ve narrowed down the selection of one of the best ultralight backpacking tents under.

I’ve been utilizing and testing a number of of the newly up to date ultralight tents in current months and have been utilizing ultralight tents for a few years. I’ve used that data and expertise to hand-pick solely one of the best tents for ultralight hikers for 2024.


How We Examined

All of the Ultralight Backpacking Tents on this evaluation have been extensively evaluated and researched by the skilled creator who has a few years of expertise in Through-Climbing, Backpacking, and Climbing. Among the tents had been bought and a few had been equipped by the producer. They’ve been rigorously examined by the creator in every kind of climate. The analysis, testing, and expertise of the creator have mixed to provide you with one of the best ultralight tents for 2024. Learn the Evaluate Coverage for additional particulars.

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Finest Ultralight Backpacking Tents 2024

The Finest Ultralight Backpacking Tents in 2024 are:

Finest Ultralight 1P Tent – Total

ZPacks Plex Solo

Zpacks Plex Solo Ultralight 1P TentZpacks Plex Solo Ultralight 1P Tent

Weight: 13.9 oz / 395 grams
Execs:

> Ultralight
> Very small pack dimension
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole and 6 tent stakes to arrange
Cons:
> Not the most cost effective
> You might want to buy tent stakes and a trekking pole individually

Solo ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers are a particular breed of individuals. And those that need to carry solely the necessities with the lightest potential weight have to look no additional. The Zpacks Plex Solo is the lightest tent available on the market. Not solely is it a light-weight tent, however it has good climate resistance and a small pack dimension.

The Zpacks Plex Solo trekking pole shelters solely wants one trekking pole to arrange. This works completely with the rising development amongst ultralight thru-hikers to solely carry one trekking pole. And it’s fast and straightforward to arrange while you arrive at camp.

For a 1 individual tent, there’s sufficient room inside however most of your gear will have to be saved within the vestibule space. If this doesn’t give you the results you want, then a 2 individual tent is likely to be a greater possibility, even when climbing solo.

Made with Dyneema Composite Materials (formally generally known as Cuban Fiber) it has a number of benefits over nylon tents. It is not going to sag when moist and could be very waterproof. Add to that the manufacturing facility seam sealing that comes with the tent and you’ve got a strong tent in dangerous climate.

Total, the Zpacks Plex Solo is one of the best ultralight 1P tent for 2024.

Finest Ultralight 2P Tent – Total

Zpacks Duplex Zip Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent ReviewZpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review

Weight: 20.4 oz / 577 grams
Execs:

> Ultralight
> Waterproof and seam sealed
> Good in dangerous climate
> Small pack dimension
> Good inside dimensions for two folks
Cons:
> Not low cost

The ZPacks Duplex Tent has been round for a number of years and has cemented itself as among the best ultralight thru-hiking tents. The addition of zips on the vestibule has improved the stormproofing of the tent which supplies it extra attraction for these tenting in dangerous climate.

Like all Zpacks Tents, it’s made with Dyneema (Cuben Fiber) which isn’t solely light-weight however robust and has the added benefit of not sagging when it’s moist like nylon tents. The current addition of the zips makes this tent superior in dangerous climate.

Once I examined this tent I preferred the best way the underside of the zips are hooked up to the tent pegs by way of a wire and hooks system. This properly thought out design will not be seen on too many different tents and permits you to preserve the tent pitched solidly when the zips are closed, open, or with just one aspect of the vestibule open. It additionally permits the zips to be simply zipped all the best way to the underside with out problem. Whereas it’s fiddly to make use of the very first time, it’s a easy function like this that units this tent aside from many others within the subject.

The Zpacks Duplex Zip tent is a non-freestanding tent. It wants trekking poles or poles from Zpacks that aren’t included in both the burden or value of the tent 2.5 oz (71 grams).

I used to be in a position to simply arrange this tent with 6 ultralight tent stakes, however 8 tent stakes will make the tent extra bombproof in windy climate.

The interior dimension of the Duplex is enough for 2 backpackers to sleep comfortably. However your backpack and equipment will have to be saved within the vestibule space. There are handly inside storage pockets which can be nice on your cellphone, PLB, and headlamp.

The Zip model is barely about $50 dearer and 1.4 oz / 38 grams heavier than the non-zip model, however for my part, it’s a significantly better possibility. The one caveat could be when you had been climbing in areas that had been dry more often than not with solely occasional rain. PCT thru-hike could be instance of when the non-zip model could be higher as there will likely be a number of days of rain on the path.

Total, the Zpacks Duplex Zip is a well-designed ultralight 2-person tent. It’s best suited to ultra-lightweight Through Hikers or backpackers wanting among the best and lightest trekking pole shelters available on the market. The zips on the vestibule supply superior waterproof ranges from this already bombproof tent.

Finest Ultralight 3P Tent – Total

Zpacks Triplex Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Triplex reviewZpacks Triplex review

Weight: 21.6 oz / 612 grams
Execs:

> Ultralight
> Waterproof and seam sealed
> Good in dangerous climate
> Small pack dimension
Cons:
> A bit tight for 3 folks, however excellent for two folks
> Not low cost

In the case of ultralight 3-person tents or a 2-person tent with a beneficiant quantity of room then this might be for you. The tent is made with Dyneema to be as mild and robust as potential.

The Zpacks Triplex is available in each a zipper model and an ordinary (non-zip) model. The zip model is about $50 dearer and provides a few ounces. In case you are persistently trekking in areas with dangerous climate then this would be the best choice for you. In case you are climbing in areas with usually good climate then identical some cash and weight with the usual model.

I’ve extensively used and examined the non-zip model and discover it to be very roomy as a two-person tent and enough as a 3 individual tent. Actually, I feel this tent could be excellent for 2 folks with 1 youngster or perhaps a canine.

It is a 3-person trekking pole tent so you will want a set of trekking poles or use the Zpacks Tent Poles. Additionally, you will want so as to add your individual tent stakes to arrange this tent as they don’t include the tent as customary. And like all trekking pole tents, after getting set it up a few occasions it is rather straightforward and fast to arrange.

The Zpacks Triplex is a really sturdy tent and will final a number of years with care, or round 300 plus nights of use.

The Zpacks Triplex is one of the best ultralight 3-person tent and is among the present editor’s selection tents for 2024.

Finest Freestanding Ultralight Tent

Large Agnes Fly Creek Carbon

Big Agnes Fly Creek Carbon Ultralight Tent ReviewBig Agnes Fly Creek Carbon Ultralight Tent Review

Weight: 1P 16 oz / 454 grams
Weight: 2P 18 oz / 510 grams
Execs:

> Semi-free standing
> Extraordinarily Light-weight
> Finest as a thru-hiking tent for hikers who’re very cautious with their gear
Cons:
> Prohibitively costly
> Extraordinarily Fragile
> Tunnel-style tent can really feel like crawling right into a cave

Take the design of the Fly Creek add Carbon Fibre Poles and marry that with Dyneema Composite Material and you’ve got the Large Agnes Fly Creek Carbon.

The Fly Creek HV2 Carbon is a double wall tent that weighs solely 18 oz / 510 grams. The one individual model, the Fly Creek Carbon HV 1P weighs 18 oz / 510 grams.

Created from Dyneema material (beforehand generally known as Cuban Fibre), this represents a quantum leap in light-weight free-standing tents. However let me make one factor very clear. These backpacking tents are usually not solely tremendous light-weight however far more delicate than different tents. Let me clarify.

The poles are constructed from Carbon Fibre which isn’t solely very robust and light-weight. They’re stronger and dearer than different tent poles however like all tents, tent poles do break. When that occurs with carbon fiber, it can splinter and shatter.

Total, this tent is for the very area of interest ultralight thru-hiker who understands that this tent should be cared for and solely actually utilized by skilled folks. Whereas it’s a promising various to the ultralight Dyneema Tents from Hyperlight Mountain Gear and ZPacks I’m prepared to attend some time to see how this tent evolves within the coming years.

Finest Light-weight 1P Tent – Total

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1P Tent

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1P tentHyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1P tent

Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz / 480 grams
Execs:

> Very Light-weight Tent
> Stormproof
> Small pack dimension
> Good guarantee and after gross sales service from HMG
Cons:
> Not the most cost effective tent

The newly up to date Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 1 individual tent is a really robust tent that may work very properly in dangerous climate. It’s only a few grams heavier than the Zpacks Plex Solo and is a worthy light-weight tent for backpackers and thru-hikers.

Made with sag-proof Dyneema materials which is tremendous waterproof. No want to fret when the climate turns dangerous as this 1-person tent has you lined. Whereas you wouldn’t need to be tentbound on this tent for a number of days it’s good to understand it is not going to allow you to down in dangerous climate.

Total, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 1P Tent could be very strong and finest suited to somebody wanting one of many lightest 1-person tents with the utmost quantity of weatherproof capacity.

Finest Light-weight Tent – Total

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent ReviewHyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent Review

Weight: 24 oz / 680 grams
Execs:

> Ultralight
> Very Waterproof
> Nice Waterproof Zips
> Good for Through-Climbing
> 2 vestibules
Cons:
> Not the Least expensive
> You might want to use trekking poles
> Tent Stakes not included

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent is the most recent ultralight single-wall tent available on the market in 2024. This spectacular brand-new tent from HMG is certain to change into one of many extra fashionable thru-hiking tents on the paths this yr.

Made with among the best supplies for ultralight tents, Dyneema Composite Fiber. Once I used and examined this tent I preferred the very small pack dimension and ultralight weight. The tent will not be solely light-weight, however it’s sturdy and it is among the finest in school relating to its waterproof capacity.

I preferred the two massive vestibules which can be large enough to retailer your gear when within the backcountry. The waterproof zips on the vestibule are a pleasant contact, and so are the magnetic clips that you need to use to maintain the vestibule doorways open while you need extra air flow within the tent.

This 2-person tent has sufficient room for many backpackers. I’m not the tallest individual, however I used to be in a position to sleep within the tent and nonetheless have sufficient room to retailer my backpack at my ft. So, even tall hikers will match inside with out dealing with the difficulty of getting their heads or ft touching the ends of the tent.

The tent has related dimensions to the Zpack tent talked about above. I examined and used these tents collectively. They comply with the same design to many different ultralight trekking pole tents. The generous-sized vestibule and waterproof zips make this an enchancment on most of the kinds from different producers. Whereas this does add a little bit of weight, I consider it’s value it for the advantage of having a totally enclosed tent, particularly in inclement climate.

Total, I’m struggling to search out too many detrimental to say about this tent. The Newly Launched Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P tent is spectacular. It’s proper up there as one of the best ultralight backpacking tent, which is certain to be extraordinarily fashionable on thru-hiking trails this yr.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 2 Evaluate

Weight: 18.7 oz / 534 grams
Execs:

> Light-weight backpacking tent
> Is a real 4 season tent
> Spacious
> Sturdy and Resilient 
> Giant Vestibule
> Good guarantee and repair
Cons:
> Premium Product which is Costly
> Zippers Require Care

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 2 is among the finest light-weight tents constructed from ultra-light Dyneema Composite Fiber (Cuban Fibre) Tent.

It has a path weight of solely 18.85oz / 534grams. It’s extra spacious, lighter, and constructed from a a lot stronger grade of material than Zpacks.

The upper grade Dyneema materials makes the tent dearer. It additionally wants the addition of a Waterproof Flooring and Mosquito mesh, weighing 22.1 oz / 627 grams, if utilized in mosquito nation. That brings the overall tent weight together with the ground and mosquito internet to

Additionally, the mesh insert is strong and doesn’t require using a floor sheet to guard the material. It’s powerful.

The Ultramid 2 is pricey and also you additionally have to buy the Full Mesh Interior tent physique. That may be a large outlay for a light-weight tent. It’s good to know it’s lined by guarantee. However it’s costly. Is it well worth the worth? I requested a few seasoned adventurers. 

Bethany ‘Fidget’ Hughes and Lauren ‘Neon’ Reed used this backpacking tent in Patagonia on their epic journey thru-hiking the entire size of South America. We had been impressed with the inside area contained in the tent, as we each have tall torsos and like a good quantity of private area.

The double trekking pole/tent pole center created a straightforward marker as to whose aspect was which and had been in a position to sleep comfortably with our gear lining the sting of the tent.

We opted for the floorless mesh insert which offered safety from the biting flies. As with nearly all out of doors gear I’ve used, the very first thing to fail was the zipper, so upkeep and periodically lubricating the zipper is advisable.

The Dyneema material was sturdy, and extraordinarily mild, and the vents on the prime in addition to controlling the quantity of area between the bottom of the tent and the bottom allowed for good air flow and might be adjusted to prioritize heat.

It was fast to arrange and has good climate resistance, having the ability to face up to gale pressure winds, hail, snow, and driving rain. All in all, one of the best ultralight tent I’ve ever used.

Observe their unbelievable Journey from the very southern tip of South America to the northern tip of North America. A multi-year journey of journey. https://her-odyssey.org/  –  Her Odyssey on FaceBook

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear is one of the best pyramid-design backpacking tent for 2024. The mix of a light-weight tent weight, nice climate resistance, and a fairly massive ground space make this one of the best 2-person backpacking tent in the intervening time.

Finest Price range Ultralight Tent

Six Moon Designs Lunar Evaluate

Six Moon Design Lunar Solo ReviewSix Moon Design Lunar Solo Review

Weight: 26 oz / 740 grams
Execs:

> Ultralight
> Good sized vestibule which is large enough for a backpack
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole to arrange
> Nice Worth
Cons:
> 1P solely however there’s a 2P Duo is a good possibility for two folks.

The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo is an superior ultralight trekking pole-style tent. This tent is finest suited to the ultralight solo hiker who needs a high quality tent constructed to resist a long-distance thru-hike.

In case you are planning to thru-hike then you’ll in all probability be utilizing ultralight trekking poles so they’ll come in useful to arrange this tent and prevent some cash as you’ll not want to purchase the separate poles to arrange this tarp-style tent.

There’s loads of air flow on this tent which is able to make it properly suited to damp trails, nonetheless, this is able to be an ideal tent for a solo hiker wanting the finest price range ultralight tent for the PCT. It could’t compete with the Zpacks vary for weight however it’s fairly a bit cheaper.

Total, the is among the finest price range ultralight tents available on the market. Finest suited to ultralight solo hikers on a price range.

Finest 2P Backpacking Tent

Nemo Hornet OSMO Evaluate

Nemo Hornet OSMO Tent ReviewNemo Hornet OSMO Tent Review

Weight – 1P 29 oz / 822 grams
Weight – 2P 33 oz / 948 grams
Weight – 3P 45 oz / 1280 grams
Execs:
> Good worth for cash
> Light-weight semi-freestanding tent
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> The tent pegs bend simply when you use a rock on arduous floor
> The within mesh is susceptible to ripping close to the pole connection loop

The upgraded Nemo Hornet OSMO 2P Tent is certainly one of my favourite backpacking tents. I used the earlier mannequin of the Nemo Hornet for properly over 500 nights. Virtually each element of the tent has been reviewed, upgraded, improved, or changed, making this an nearly model new mannequin of the tent from Nemo.

The Nemo Hornet is available in three sizes, specifically the 1P, 2P and 3P. I need to admit I desire the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2P model with the 2 doorways and two vestibules, even when climbing solo. I think about it among the best light-weight 2-person tents.

The Inside area of the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2-person tent is a decent squeeze for 2 folks. Actually, I’d say if you wish to use this tent for 2 folks then think about the marginally bigger Nemo Dagger or related.

The tent poles are the brand new featherlite NSL poles from DAC that are very mild and really robust.

The newly up to date OSMO ripstop materials reduces sag when moist which has at all times been a problem with most tents. Whereas it reduces sag by a claimed 300% it’s but to match the tents constructed from Dyneema which gives one of the best in school anti-sag materials.

The one difficulty is the within mesh close to the pole connection loop is susceptible to tearing over a protracted time frame.

Total, it is among the finest light-weight climbing tents available on the market. There’s a motive you will note this tent on so many backpacking trails in the intervening time. It’s a good strong selection. I desire the light-weight 2 Individual tent which has extra inside area for gear storage and is my favourite selection.

This must be the Finest Tent for the Appalachian Path.

Finest 1P Backpacking Tent

Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite Evaluate

Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO ReviewNemo Hornet Elite OSMO Review

Weight – 1P 23 oz / 657 grams
Weight
– 2P 27 oz / 879 grams
Execs:

> Among the best light-weight semi-freestanding tent
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Extremely Light-weight Tent
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> Not Low cost
> In very heavy rain water can splash by means of the mesh

The Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO is basically a lighter specification model of the Nemo Hornet. It makes use of lighter recycled Denier Material on the tent physique and it makes use of extra mesh than the common OSMO Hornet to scale back the packed weight by round 5oz. And the lighter tent ground helps preserve the burden down too.

The result’s that this is among the lightest semi-freestanding double wall tents. The 2P model has two doorways and two vestibules which can be fairly roomy.

The Nemo Hornet Elite is a little bit of a decent squeeze for 2 folks. There is not going to be an excessive amount of room for backpacking gear contained in the tent.

The Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite is dearer than the traditional Nemo Hornet. Is it value the additional worth for this ultralight tent? In case you are taking a look at going extremely mild then I’d say sure.

Total, the Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite is among the lightest semi-freestanding ultralight tents that might be one of the best backpacking tent for a solo hiker wanting extra inside area than a one-person tent in a single extremely mild package deal.

Finest 3P Backpacking Tent

Large Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Evaluate

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Backpacking TentBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Backpacking Tent

Weight: 1P 34 oz /964 grams
Weight: 2P 43 oz / 1219 grams
Weight: 3P 3 lb. 8 oz / 1588 grams
Execs:

> Good worth for cash for the UL model
among the best light-weight freestanding tent
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Light-weight, the platinum model is one of the best ultralight freestanding tent.
Cons:
> A bit heavier than different tents on this evaluation

I used Large Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 whereas climbing components of the Pacific Crest Path and Bikepacking by means of Mexico. I really like this backpacking tent. However is the 3-person model that’s actually nice as a 3P Backpacking tent. Whereas it’s on the heavy aspect, there’s a lot to love

The Large Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is among the extra spacious ultralight tents. It has a big inside area for a 3-person light-weight backpacking tent. There are two doorways and two vestibules which can be large enough to cook dinner in if the climate is dangerous.

Many individuals report that the tents are barely much less waterproof than Nemo however as I’ve used each I consider they’re equal of their waterproofness.

Total this is among the finest freestanding backpacking tents, actually, it’s the finest 3P backpacking tent for 2024. A great steadiness between the inside dimension, value, and light-packed weight. Beneficial for a pair wanting additional room or a beneficiant sized three-person backpacking tent.

Finest Backpacking Tunnel Tent

Large Agnes Fly Creek HV UL

Big Agnes HV UL Solution Dye TentBig Agnes HV UL Solution Dye Tent

Weight: 1P 27 oz / 765 grams
Weight: 2P 31 oz / 878 grams
Execs:

> Semi-free standing
> Light-weight
> Affordable Worth contemplating how mild it’s
Cons:
> Tunnel-style tent can really feel like crawling right into a cave
> Not a lot room inside

The Large Agnes Fly Creek backpacking tent is among the hottest light-weight semi-freestanding tents on the long-distance climbing trails of the world.

I thru-hiked half the Pacific Crest Path with this tent. It is extremely straightforward to arrange and works fairly properly at protecting the dangerous climate exterior.

I need to admit that I’m not the most important fan of tunnel-style tents. It seems like crawling right into a cave. I a lot desire aspect entry tents so whereas the model of the tent doesn’t work for me, all the pieces else works nice.

Having mentioned that, there are a lot of followers of this tent for good motive. This is among the lightest freestanding tents available on the market at 29oz /822 grams for the 1P and 32oz / 907 grams for the 2P.

In order for you an ultralight freestanding tent this is likely to be your tent. Not too many dangerous issues to say about it, properly, besides that it’s not a aspect entry tent. In the case of an ultralight double walled tent, this is among the higher ones on the market.


Testing the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag Quilt and Zpacks Triplex Ultralight TentTesting the Zpacks Zip Around Sleeping Bag Quilt and Zpacks Triplex Ultralight Tent
Testing the Zpacks Triplex close to the seaside

Better of the Relaxation

The next tents are usually not on the principle listing however not as a result of they weren’t ok however as a result of those above had been superior and a few of them I’ve not had an opportunity to check personally but.

  • Nemo Dagger OSMO – The Nemo Dagger OSMO is a freestanding model of the very fashionable Nemo Hornet. It has a greater pole configuration that provides a bit extra inside area for 2 folks sharing this backpacking tent.
  • Macpac Duolight – On the heavy aspect the Macpac Duolight is barely out there in Australia and New Zealand. The Macpac Duolight 2-person bushwalking / tramping tent has a bigger inside area than all the opposite tents on this evaluation and is the one tent with a real bathtub ground that’s extra waterproof than most rain jackets with an enormous 10000 hydrostatic head ranking! Going into actually moist areas and don’t thoughts your tent being twice as heavy then this might be the tent for you.
  • REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL – The REI Co-Op Quarter Dome is among the finest price range backpacking tents. It’s a good compromise between value, light-weight, and good performance. As a high quality price range possibility, it’s a worthy contender.
  • MSR Hubba Hubba NX – I beforehand owned the older MSR Hubba Hubba and liked the inside area, twin doorways, and vestibules however it was a heavy tent compared to all of the others on this evaluation. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is mild however not ultralight, good however not nice however very practical. It’s a good selection for {couples} wanting high quality bigger 2-person tent at an inexpensive worth.
  • Tarptent Stratosphere Li – The Tarptent Stratosphere Li is among the lightest Dyneema tents however very costly.
  • Tarptent Double Rainbow Li – One other light-weight tent possibility from Tarptent that can be very mild and costly.
  • Tarptent Aeon Li – Ultralight and weighs beneath a pound/half a kilo, and a robust one-person tent.
  • Durston X Mid – The Durston X Mid is one other light-weight backpacking tent possibility
  • 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 – The 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 is a light-weight price range tent that performs properly and is a fraction of the price of different tents.
  • Gossamer Gear The One – The Gossamer Gear The One is an effective light-weight one-person tent.
  • Gossamer Gear The Two – The Gossamer Gear The Two is an effective light-weight two-person tent.
Gear Testing tents under the starsGear Testing tents under the stars
Gear Testing the Nemo Hornet Tent beneath the celebs

Ultralight Tent Comparability Desk

Supply: Producers

Ultralight Tent Patrons Information


Worth

In the case of Backpacking Tents worth is essential and also you don’t have to lay our a fortune on a tent. Many of the tents on this evaluation are usually not low cost, they’re all one of the best light-weight tents out there in the intervening time. With that prime worth comes good high quality, guarantee, and plenty of nights of use within the backcountry.

Total, relating to worth for cash and a light-weight backpacking tent the cash is properly spent and a tent will likely be thought-about one of many largest purchases you’ll make.

Zpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibuleZpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibule
The Zpacks Duplex Zip is on the expensive aspect however has sufficient room for two folks and tremendous light-weight

Packaged Weight vs. Path Weight

Packaged Weight refers back to the weight of the tent together with all of the tent pegs and tent luggage, Tent poles and pole luggage, man ropes, tent luggage, and restore equipment.

Path Weight is typically referred to as the minimal path weight and often refers back to the weight of the tent physique, fly, and poles solely. It not often consists of issues akin to stuff sacks or tent pegs.


Bathtub Flooring

A tub ground refers back to the heavy-duty ground that traces the beneath aspect of the internal tent. It’s waterproof and often covers sufficient of the ground earlier than it rises as much as the mesh part of the doorways. The bath ground is tremendous essential in protecting the rain and moisture from coming into from beneath the ground of the tent.

Bathtub floor in snow and heavy rainBathtub floor in snow and heavy rain
Glad to have a tub ground in snow and heavy rain

Finest Materials for Tents

The commonest materials utilized in tent building is Silnylon and Dyneema which is also referred to as Cuban Fiber.

Silnylon is an inexpensive and light-weight rip-stop nylon that’s impregnated with silicon and made to be waterproof. It’s made in several thicknesses that are sometimes called denier. 20 denier material is taken into account ultralight.

Dyneema Composite Fiber is tremendous costly however has superior energy to weight. It additionally performs properly as a tent materials because it is not going to sag when it will get moist, not like Silnylon.

Best material for tents Silnylon and DyneemaBest material for tents Silnylon and Dyneema
Silnylon and Dyneema are two of one of the best materials for tents

Tunnel Tent vs Facet Entry Tent

When Tunnel Tents Are Higher

Tunnel Tents have both one or two entry areas at both finish of the tent. When sleeping contained in the tent the pinnacle is on the entry of the tent. These tents usually have superior safety in opposition to storms and robust wind. They typically have significantly better climate safety.

On the draw back, it may really feel just like the hiker is coming into and exiting a cave as they crawl inside and pivot round into the sleep place.

Why are Facet Entry Tents Higher

Facet entry tents are a lot simpler to reside with. The hiker can enter and exit the tent so much simpler. There’s typically extra cupboard space within the vestibule of those tents. In dangerous climate, they’re often not as robust however could make cooking within the vestibule simpler on most of those kinds of tents.

Which is Higher a Tunnel Tent or a Facet Entry Tent?

Having used and tents each kinds of those tents over time I’ve a private desire for side-entry tents and consider that one of the best backpacking tents are side-entry tents. They only work higher for most individuals together with myself.

Tunnel Tent or Side entry tent in use in Yellowstone NP on the CDTTunnel Tent or Side entry tent in use in Yellowstone NP on the CDT
Tunnel Tent or Facet entry tent in use in Yellowstone NP on the CDT

Inside House

Inside area is split into 3 sections, the inside ground dimensions, the peak of the tent also referred to as the height top, and the slope of the tent.

  • Inside Flooring Dimensions are a compromise between having the most important quantity of area for the minimal quantity of weight but making the design robust sufficient to resist dangerous climate. The tent needs to be massive sufficient for tall hikers and if it’s a 2-person backpacking tent there needs to be sufficient room for each hikers contained in the tent. However it’s a compromise, extra inside ground space equals extra weight and for a tent to be ultralight it is going to be a decent squeeze for many {couples}. Typically {couples} desire a 3-person tent for the only real objective of getting extra inside ground space.
  • Peak Top is basically how tall the tent is. Most individuals need to have the ability to sit up contained in the tent with out their heads hitting the roof. Decrease tents supply higher climate resistance at the price of consolation. Like most individuals, I desire a tent I can sit in.
  • Slope refers the how steep of an angle the tent partitions are. Steep partitions imply the tent will shed water simpler however that comes at the price of the flexibility to provide good climate resistance in very windy climate.
Interior space of a tentInterior space of a tent
The inside area of a 1P tent is simply large enough for 1 individual however not a lot gear

A footprint is a small layer of fabric that goes in between the bottom and the ground of the tent. The aim is to provide extra safety to the ground of the tent. Usually, this isn’t wanted and is a waste of cash, and solely provides additional weight.

There are occasions when a footprint could be a good suggestion akin to when tenting in deserts or areas with sharp thorns or muddy circumstances when the additional layer of safety can help.

Most producers make their very own customized footprints however most are heavy and costly. A less expensive possibility is to come up with some Tyvek which is utilized in buildings for management of moisture. Ultralight floor sheets could be made by utilizing Polycryo which is utilized by painters as a drop sheet.

Total, using a footprint will likely be as much as you. I’ve used them on quite a few events and personally, I don’t like them. However when climbing by means of areas with sharp thorns and respect the added safety for an inflatable sleeping mat.


1P Tent vs 2P Tent vs 3P tent

A 2-person backpacking tent is extra fashionable than a 1-person ultralight tent. A solo hiker can profit from the extra area and talent to hike with one other individual every so often.

  • 1P Tent – A 1 individual tent is often ultralight however is a decent squeeze for the backpacker and their gear. With most of those small tents, the gear must be saved exterior the internal tent within the vestibule. They need to be lengthy sufficient and tall sufficient so even large hikers can match inside with out touching the partitions of the tent. Most 1 individual tents include just one vestibule and one door.
  • 2P Tent – 2-person tents are the preferred as each solo hikers and {couples} can match inside. However let’s be sincere most 2-person tents are a decent squeeze and there’s little room inside for 2 folks and definitely not their gear which should be saved exterior. Most two-person tents include two doorways and two vestibules.
  • 3P Tents – 3 Individual tents are the favorites of {couples} and mates who go backpacking collectively because of the additional inside room. Some {couples} go climbing with their canine and love the additional room of the three P tents. Typically the two doorways and vestibules are usually not wanted to retailer an excessive amount of gear as there’s sufficient inside. The three-person tent can be loved by younger households eager to take a younger youngster on brief in a single day backpacking journeys.

Doorways and Vestibules

The doorways and vestibules of tents are nearly as essential as different inside ground area. Having 2 doorways and a pair of vestibules makes the dwelling preparations for folks sharing a tent so significantly better. Solo hikers solely want a single door and vestibule for all their gear and want it to be large enough to reside comfortably in even the worst climate.

Like most individuals, I desire 2 doorways and vestibules however not for a similar motive as most individuals. An additional benefit of getting two vestibules and two doorways has extra to do with the climate. While you arrange a tent at night time completely to have safety from the wind and rain solely to have it change route in a single day. The power to make use of the opposite door and vestibule for cooking or getting out and in of the tent when it’s raining or very windy is an additional benefit.

Twin Door and Twin Vestibule Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Ultralight TentTwin Door and Twin Vestibule Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Ultralight Tent
Testing the HMG Unbound 2P whereas tenting close to the seaside

Single Wall vs Double Wall

Single wall tents are often a lot lighter and are often non-freestanding tents that require using trekking poles to arrange. When mixed with materials akin to Dyneema they make for a really light-weight backpacking tent.

Double wall tents often have an inside tent with a lot of mesh for air flow and may typically be arrange with out the outer tent fly making this a terrific possibility for warm climate journey within the tropics or on these heat summer season nights. These tents are higher at coping with inside condensation because the internal tent has the flexibility to guard in opposition to drips.

Testing the BA Copper Spur within the desert of Mexico. The internal tent provides to the air flow.

Tent Air flow

Having the ability to cut back condensation on chilly moist nights is equally essential and permits the breeze to chill the within of the tent when it’s tremendous scorching. Double-walled tents are higher relating to air flow and have the additional advantage of getting the internal part of the tent that may be pitched with out the fly.

When it’s arrange it will be important that the tent is designed to have the ability to catch no matter cross breeze there’s to scale back the inner humidity and cut back condensation.

Well ventilated inner tentWell ventilated inner tent
Testing the air flow of the Nemo Hornet whereas tenting on the CDT in Wyoming.

Climate Resistance

Many of the tents on this evaluation will face up to the kind of parts that the setting will throw at you throughout 3 season backpacking journeys. They are going to face up to quantity of wind, mild dustings of snow, and heavy rain. They are going to all work properly within the tropics as they’ve good air flow and can insulate in all however the coldest temperatures under freezing.

Weather protection of tents during a light dusting of snow.Weather protection of tents during a light dusting of snow.
Testing the Large Agnes Copper Spur for climate resistant in snow on the PCT.

Tent Pegs and Poles

Tent pegs are available in all shapes, sizes, and weights.

  • Tent Pegs – The ultralight hiker will desire to pay for some tremendous light-weight pegs constructed from titanium. These are robust, mild, and costly however for the gram-counting thru-hiker, they’re well worth the cash. Most of us will likely be glad with the aluminum tent pegs offered by the producer. If you wish to improve, check out The Finest Tent Stakes Evaluate.
  • Tent Poles – Tents poles are so significantly better now than they had been 20 years in the past. The sunshine aluminum poles face up to robust wind earlier than they break. All producers can ship out sections of poles in the event that they break. the commonest manner of breaking a pole will not be having the female and male sections of the pole seated collectively appropriately. Some tents require using Trekking Poles to carry the tent up.
  • Carbon Fiber Tent Poles – Carbon Fiber tent poles are the most recent improvement within the effort to avoid wasting weight. These poles are nonetheless of their first years of use and will definitely get higher with time. Simply be aware that carbon poles have a horrible aspect impact of shattering after they break. So is the additional weight saving value it simply but!
Tent pegs and poles being tested with ultralight tentsTent pegs and poles being tested with ultralight tents
Tent pegs from most producers are nice however Titanium is lighter, stronger, and dearer.

Adaptability

When seeking to purchase a tent it is very important know precisely what the meant use will likely be. Some folks will need one of the best tent for thru-hiking, others will need the tent for automobile tenting, others like to go canoeing and a few will need the tent for use for Bikepacking, bicycle touring, or another out of doors exercise. When looking for a tent attempt to have the tip person in thoughts and discover a tent that may adapt to no matter use you plan.

Using a tent that is adaptable for hiking and bicycle touring Using a tent that is adaptable for hiking and bicycle touring
Bike Touring with the Nemo Hornet at excessive altitude over 4000 meters in Ecuador.

Tent Care and Repairing Zips

Tents have to be washed commonly and zippers have to be clear and commonly maintained. With just a little bit of standard upkeep, your tent will final for 100s if not 1000s of nights earlier than needing to get replaced.

Cleansing a Tent

A tent needs to be washed in gentle cleaning soap when wanted and solely ever saved when it’s utterly dry. Failure to retailer a tent when it’s dry will trigger mould and different nasties to destroy the tent material.

Taking care of Zips

Zips are an element that may finally put on out. Maintain the enamel of the zipper clear and lubricate every so often with a dry lubricant solely. My desire is to run a candle alongside the enamel to permit the wax to take a seat on the enamel and act as a dry lubricant.

The way to Repair Zipper Slides

Zipper slides will finally put on out and have to be changed. Normally, the entire tent has been used and abused by then and is totally worn out and must be changed. If a zipper slide fails to shut the tent as within the photograph above it may be simply solved by utilizing pliers to crimp the perimeters of the slider ever so barely so the slide grips the enamel higher. Don’t overdo this otherwise you won’t be able to open or shut the tent.

Zipper slides are simply mounted after they fail to shut the enamel of the zips.

Conclusion

Listed here are one of the best ultra-lightweight tents for thru-hiking and backpacking in 2024.

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Ceaselessly Requested Questions

How a lot does an ultralight tent weigh?

An ultralight backpacking tent will weigh lower than 2 lb / 900 grams and never solely be light-weight however compact and in a position to face up to reasonably robust wind.

Are Ultralight tents value it?

Ultralight tents will often be a bit dearer than light-weight climbing and backpacking tent. Normally, the fabric is lighter, not as robust, and never as waterproof as heavier tents. In some instances, ultralight tents use supplies akin to Dyneema which isn’t solely robust and lightweight but additionally costly.

How lengthy do ultralight tents final?

Ultralight tents are usually not as sturdy as most different tents thus often will final between 300-600 nights of use. For most individuals, sturdy ultralight tents will likely be a few years of use.

The Absolute LIGHTEST Tents You Can Buy

BikeHikeSafari Gear Evaluate Course of

The creator, Brad McCartney from BikeHikeSafari is a small impartial adventurer and out of doors gear tester who owns and runs BikeHikeSafari.com.

BikeHikeSafari will not be half of a giant weblog community and is proudly impartial. All critiques on this web site are impartial and sincere gear critiques of out of doors merchandise by the creator.

The creator, Brad McCartney is a really skilled triple crown thru-hiker, adventurer, and bike tourer having spent 1000s of nights sleeping in a tent and sleeping bag (Learn extra). He was a supervisor of an outside retail retailer and could be very skilled in what’s essential when utilizing and testing gear for critiques like this.

BikeHikeSafari won’t ever obtain any cash for critiques and they don’t settle for sponsored critiques on this web site. All of the feedback concerning the gear critiques are from the creator based mostly on his years of expertise. Hope this impartial evaluation was useful for you.

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