Sunday, February 8, 2026

Finest Ultralight Tents for Via Mountain climbing & Backpacking [2025]


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It is a gear evaluation about the perfect ultralight tents for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2025.

The Finest Backpacking tents of 2025 are getting higher, lighter, and extra compact. This 12 months, most large firms, equivalent to NEMO, Massive Agnes, Zpacks, Six Moon Designs, and Hyperlite Mountain Gear, have superior extra-light variations of their in style backpacking ultralight tents.

In 2025 there isn’t a want to take a look at heavy tents until you propose on mountaineering or visiting the windy excessive latitudes, then you’ll need 4 Season Winter Tents.

Some ultralight hikers would possibly even favor an Ultralight Tarp to maintain their base weight as little as potential. However for many hikers, a light-weight backpacking tent is the best choice so I’ve additionally included the perfect backpacking tents.

In case you are out there for a brand new tent there are lots of choices. An excellent high quality tent will likely be a compromise on price, weight, sturdiness, and measurement however its main perform is to maintain you dry and cozy. I’ve narrowed down the selection of the perfect ultralight backpacking tents beneath.

I’ve been utilizing and testing a number of of the newly up to date ultralight tents in latest months and have been utilizing ultralight tents for a few years. I’ve used that information and expertise to hand-pick solely the perfect tents for ultralight hikers for 2025.


How We Examined

All of the Ultralight Backpacking Tents on this evaluation have been extensively evaluated and researched by the skilled writer who has a few years of expertise in Via-Mountain climbing, Backpacking, and Mountain climbing. A few of the tents had been bought and a few had been provided by the producer. They’ve been rigorously examined by the writer in every kind of climate. The analysis, testing, and expertise of the writer have mixed to provide you with the perfect ultralight tents for 2025. Learn the Assessment Coverage for additional particulars.

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Finest Ultralight Backpacking Tents 2025

The Finest Ultralight Backpacking Tents in 2025 are:

Finest Ultralight 1P Tent – General

ZPacks Plex Solo

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

Weight: 14.5 oz / 411 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Very small pack measurement
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole and 6 tent stakes to arrange
Cons:
> Not the most cost effective
> That you must buy tent stakes and a trekking pole individually

Solo ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers are a particular breed of individuals. And people who wish to carry solely the necessities with the lightest potential weight must look no additional. The Zpacks Plex Solo is the lightest tent in the marketplace. Not solely is it a light-weight tent, nevertheless it has good climate resistance and a small pack measurement.

The Zpacks Plex Solo trekking pole shelters solely want 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 simple 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 be just right for you, then a 2 individual tent is perhaps a greater choice, even when mountain climbing solo.

Made with Dyneema Composite Materials (formally referred to as Cuban Fiber) it has a number of benefits over nylon tents. It won’t sag when moist and may be very waterproof. Add to that the manufacturing unit seam sealing that comes with the tent and you’ve got a strong tent in unhealthy climate.

Lately, Zpacks launched the Plex Solo Lite Collection which weighs lower than 12 ounces, making it one of many lightest backpacking shelters ever. The Lite Collection comes with thinner, lighter man ropes and a lighter-weight ground and is an efficient choice for anybody wanting the lightest 1P tent on this planet.

General, the Zpacks Plex Solo is the perfect ultralight 1P tent for 2025.

Finest Ultralight 2P Tent – General

Zpacks Duplex Zip Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent ReviewZpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review

Weight: 1lb. 3.6 oz / 555 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Waterproof and seam-sealed
> Good in unhealthy climate
> Small pack measurement
> Good inner 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 the most effective ultralight thru-hiking tents. The addition of zips on the vestibule has improved the stormproofing of the tent which provides it extra attraction for these tenting in unhealthy climate.

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

After I examined this tent I appreciated the best way the underside of the zips are connected to the tent pegs through a wire and hooks system. This effectively thought out design isn’t seen on too many different tents and lets you hold 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 characteristic like this that units this tent other than many others within the discipline.

The Zpacks Duplex Zip tent is non-freestanding. It wants trekking poles or poles from Zpacks that aren’t included in both the load or price 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 inner dimension of the Duplex is enough for 2 backpackers to sleep comfortably. However your backpack and kit will have to be saved within the vestibule space. There are handly inner storage pockets which might be nice to 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 in my view, it’s a significantly better choice. The one caveat could be in the event you had been mountain climbing in areas that had been dry more often than not with solely occasional rain. PCT thru-hike could be an excellent instance of when the non-zip model could be higher as there will likely be a number of days of rain on the path.

An alternative choice is the brand new Lite Collection Duplex which now weighs lower than 15 ounces. It has barely smaller inner dimensions, a lighter ground, and thinner man ropes which all mix to trim the load. This may very well be an excellent choice for thru-hikers that worth the lightest weight tent potential.

General, the Zpacks Duplex Zip is a well-designed ultralight 2-person tent. It’s best fitted to ultra-lightweight Via Hikers or backpackers wanting the most effective and lightest trekking pole shelters in the marketplace. The zips on the vestibule supply superior waterproof ranges from this already bombproof tent.

Finest Ultralight 3P Tent – General

Zpacks Triplex Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Triplex reviewZpacks Triplex review

Weight: 1lb. 6.5 oz / 638 grams
Professionals:

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

In terms of ultralight 3-person tents or a 2-person tent with a beneficiant quantity of room then this may very well be for you. The tent is made with Dyneema to be as gentle and powerful as potential.

The Zpacks Triplex is available in each a zipper model and a typical (non-zip) model. The zip model is about $50 dearer and provides a few ounces. In case you are constantly trekking in areas with unhealthy climate then this would be the most suitable choice for you. In case you are mountain climbing in areas with typically 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. In truth, I believe 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’ll need a set of trekking poles or use the Zpacks Tent Poles. Additionally, you will want so as to add your personal tent stakes to arrange this tent as they don’t include the tent as customary. And like all trekking pole tents, after you have set it up a few occasions it is extremely straightforward and fast to arrange.

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

The Zpacks Triplex is the perfect ultralight 3-person tent and is likely one of the present editor’s selection tents for 2025.

Finest Freestanding Ultralight Tent

Massive Agnes Fly Creek Carbon

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

Weight: 1P 1lb / 454 grams
Weight: 2P 1lb. 2oz / 510 grams
Professionals:

> 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 Massive 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 16 oz / 454 grams.

Constituted of Dyneema material (beforehand referred to 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 aren’t solely tremendous light-weight however rather more delicate than different tents. Let me clarify.

The poles are made out of Carbon Fibre which isn’t solely very sturdy 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 would splinter and shatter.

General, this tent is for the very area of interest ultralight thru-hiker who understands that this tent have to 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

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1P Tent

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

Weight: 1 lb. 0.8 oz / 480 grams
Professionals:

> Very Light-weight Tent
> Stormproof
> Small pack measurement
> 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-person tent is a really sturdy tent that can work very effectively in unhealthy 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 unhealthy as this 1-person tent has you lined. Whereas you wouldn’t wish to be tentbound on this tent for a number of days it’s good to comprehend it won’t allow you to down in unhealthy climate.

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

Finest Light-weight 2P Tent

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent

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

Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz / 623 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Very Waterproof
> Nice Waterproof Zips
> Excellent for Via-Mountain climbing
> 2 vestibules
Cons:
> Not the Least expensive
> That you must use trekking poles
> Tent Stakes not included

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent is the most recent ultralight single-wall tent in the marketplace in 2025. This spectacular brand-new tent from HMG is bound to change into one of many extra in style thru-hiking tents on the paths this 12 months.

Made with the most effective supplies for ultralight tents, Dyneema Composite Fiber. After I used and examined this tent I appreciated the very small pack measurement and ultralight weight. The tent isn’t solely light-weight, however it’s sturdy and it is likely one of the finest in school in terms of its waterproof capability.

I appreciated the two giant vestibules which might 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 should 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 problem of getting their heads or ft touching the ends of the tent.

The tent has comparable dimensions to the Zpack tent talked about above. I examined and used these tents collectively. They observe an identical 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 imagine it’s value it for the good thing about having a completely enclosed tent, particularly in inclement climate.

General, I’m struggling to seek out too many adverse to say about this tent. The Newly Launched Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P tent is spectacular. It’s proper up there as the perfect ultralight backpacking tent, which is bound to be extraordinarily in style on thru-hiking trails this 12 months.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 2 Assessment

Weight: 18.7 oz / 534 grams
Professionals:

> 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 likely one of the finest light-weight tents made out of ultra-light Dyneema Composite Fiber (Cuban Fibre) Tent.

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

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

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

The Ultramid 2 is dear and also you additionally must 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 an excellent guarantee. However it’s costly. Is it definitely worth the value? 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 house contained in the tent, as we each have tall torsos and like a good quantity of non-public house.

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 virtually all outside 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 gentle, and the vents on the high in addition to controlling the quantity of house between the bottom of the tent and the bottom allowed for good air flow and may very well be adjusted to prioritize heat.

It was fast to arrange and has good climate resistance, with the ability to stand up to gale power winds, hail, snow, and driving rain. All in all, the perfect ultralight tent I’ve ever used.

Comply with 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 the perfect pyramid-design backpacking tent for 2025. The mixture of a lightweight tent weight, nice climate resistance, and a fairly giant ground space make this the perfect 2-person backpacking tent in the intervening time.

Finest Finances Ultralight Tent

Six Moon Designs Lunar Assessment

Six Moon Design Lunar Solo ReviewSix Moon Design Lunar Solo Review

Weight: 1 lb. 10 oz / 740 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Good sized vestibule which is large enough for a backpack
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole to arrange
> Nice Value
Cons:
> 1P solely however there’s a 2P Duo is a good choice 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 face up to 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 may 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 can make it effectively suited to damp trails, nevertheless, this is able to be an ideal tent for a solo hiker wanting the finest funds ultralight tent for the PCT. It may’t compete with the Zpacks vary for weight however it’s fairly a bit cheaper.

General, the is likely one of the finest funds ultralight tents in the marketplace. Finest fitted to ultralight solo hikers on a funds.

Finest 2P Backpacking Tent

Nemo Hornet OSMO Assessment

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
Professionals:
> Good worth for cash
> Light-weight semi-freestanding tent
> Stable in unhealthy climate
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> The tent pegs bend simply in the event you use a rock on arduous floor
> The within mesh is inclined 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 effectively over 500 nights. Nearly each element of the tent has been reviewed, upgraded, improved, or changed, making this an virtually model new mannequin of the tent from Nemo.

The Nemo Hornet is available in three sizes, specifically the 1P, 2P and 3P. I have to admit I favor the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2P model with the 2 doorways and two vestibules, even when mountain climbing solo. I take into account it the most effective light-weight 2-person tents.

The Inside house of the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2-person tent is a decent squeeze for 2 folks. In truth, I’d say if you wish to use this tent for 2 folks then take into account the marginally bigger Nemo Dagger or comparable.

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

The newly up to date OSMO ripstop materials reduces sag when moist which has at all times been a difficulty with most tents. Whereas it reduces sag by a claimed 300% it’s but to match the tents made out of Dyneema which presents the perfect in school anti-sag materials.

The one subject is the within mesh close to the pole connection loop is inclined to tearing over an extended time period.

General, it is likely one of the finest light-weight mountain climbing tents in the marketplace. 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 favor the light-weight 2 Particular person tent which has extra inside house 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 Assessment

Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO ReviewNemo Hornet Elite OSMO Review

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

> Among the finest light-weight semi-freestanding tent
> Stable in unhealthy climate
> Extremely Light-weight Tent
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> Not Low-cost
> In very heavy rain water can splash via 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 cut back the packed weight by round 5oz. And the lighter tent ground helps hold the load down too.

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

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

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

General, the Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite is likely one of the lightest semi-freestanding ultralight tents that will be the perfect backpacking tent for a solo hiker wanting extra inside house than a one-person tent in a single extremely gentle package deal.

Finest 3P Backpacking Tent

Massive Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Assessment

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
Professionals:

> Good worth for cash for the UL model
the most effective light-weight freestanding tent
> Stable in unhealthy climate
> Light-weight, the platinum model is the perfect ultralight freestanding tent.
Cons:
> Somewhat heavier than different tents on this evaluation

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

The Massive Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is likely one of the extra spacious ultralight tents. It has a big inside house for a 3-person light-weight backpacking tent. There are two doorways and two vestibules which might be large enough to cook dinner in if the climate is unhealthy.

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

General this is likely one of the finest freestanding backpacking tents, it’s the finest 3P backpacking tent for 2025. An excellent stability between the inside measurement, price, and light-packed weight. Really useful for a pair wanting additional room or a beneficiant sized three-person backpacking tent.

Finest Backpacking Tunnel Tent

Massive Agnes Fly Creek HV UL

Big Agnes Fly Creek 2P HV ULBig Agnes Fly Creek 2P HV UL

Weight: 1P 1 lb. 11 oz / 765 grams
Weight: 2P 1 lb. 14 oz / 850 grams
Professionals:

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

The Massive Agnes Fly Creek backpacking tent is likely one of the hottest light-weight semi-freestanding tents on the long-distance mountain climbing trails of the world.

I thru-hiked half the Pacific Crest Path with this tent. It is rather straightforward to arrange and works fairly effectively at maintaining the unhealthy climate exterior.

I have to admit that I’m not the largest fan of tunnel-style tents. It looks like crawling right into a cave. I a lot favor aspect entry tents so whereas the fashion of the tent doesn’t work for me, the whole lot else works nice.

Having stated that, there are lots of followers of this tent for good motive. This is likely one of the lightest freestanding tents in the marketplace at 27oz /765 grams for the 1P and 30oz / 850 grams for the 2P.

If you would like an ultralight freestanding tent this is perhaps your tent. Not too many unhealthy issues to say about it, effectively, besides that it’s not a aspect entry tent. In terms of an ultralight double walled tent, this is likely one of 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 seashore

Better of the Relaxation

The next tents aren’t on the primary checklist however not as a result of they weren’t adequate 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 offers a bit extra inside house for 2 folks sharing this backpacking tent.
  • Macpac Duolight – On the heavy aspect the Macpac Duolight is barely obtainable in Australia and New Zealand. The Macpac Duolight 2-person bushwalking / tramping tent has a bigger inside house 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 may very well be the tent for you.
  • REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL – The REI Co-op Quarter Dome is likely one of the finest funds backpacking tents. It’s a good compromise between price, light-weight, and good performance. As a high quality funds choice, it’s a worthy contender.
  • MSR Hubba Hubba NX – I beforehand owned the older MSR Hubba Hubba and beloved the inside house, twin doorways, and vestibules nevertheless it was a heavy tent compared to all of the others on this evaluation. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is gentle however not ultralight, good however not nice however very practical. It’s a good selection for {couples} wanting an excellent high quality bigger 2-person tent at an affordable value.
  • Tarptent Stratosphere Li – The Tarptent Stratosphere Li is likely one of the lightest Dyneema tents however very costly.
  • Tarptent Double Rainbow Li – One other light-weight tent choice from Tarptent that can also be very gentle and costly.
  • Tarptent Aeon Li – Ultralight and weighs underneath a pound/half a kilo, and a robust one-person tent.
  • Durston X Mid Professional – The Durston X Mid Professional is one other light-weight backpacking tent choice
  • 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 – The 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 is a light-weight funds tent that performs effectively and is a fraction of the price of different tents.
  • Gossamer Gear The One – The Gossamer Gear The One is an efficient light-weight one-person tent.
  • Gossamer Gear The Two – The Gossamer Gear The Two is an efficient light-weight two-person tent.
Gear Testing tents under the starsGear Testing tents under the stars
Gear Testing the Nemo Hornet Tent underneath the Stars

Ultralight Tent Comparability Desk

Supply: Producers

Ultralight Tent Patrons Information


Value

In terms of Backpacking Tents value is vital and also you don’t must lay our a fortune on a tent. A lot of the tents on this evaluation aren’t low-cost, they’re all the perfect light-weight tents obtainable in the intervening time. With that top value comes good high quality, an excellent guarantee, and plenty of nights of use within the backcountry.

General, in terms of worth for cash and a light-weight backpacking tent the cash is effectively spent and a tent will likely be thought-about one of many greatest purchases you’ll make.

Zpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibuleZpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibule
The Zpacks Duplex Zip is on the dear aspect however has sufficient room for two folks and is 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 normally refers back to the weight of the tent physique, fly, and poles solely. It not often consists of issues equivalent to stuff sacks or tent pegs.


Bathtub Ground

A bath ground refers back to the heavy-duty ground that strains the beneath aspect of the inside tent. It’s waterproof and normally covers sufficient of the ground earlier than it rises as much as the mesh part of the doorways. The bath ground is tremendous vital in maintaining the rain and moisture from getting into from underneath the ground of the tent.

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

Finest Materials for Tents

The most typical materials utilized in tent development is Silnylon and Dyneema which is also referred to as Cuban Fiber.

Silnylon is an affordable 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 effectively as a tent materials because it won’t 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 the perfect materials for tents

Tunnel Tent vs Aspect 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 typically have superior safety in opposition to storms and powerful winds. They often have significantly better climate safety.

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

Why are Aspect Entry Tents Higher

Aspect entry tents are a lot simpler to stay with. The hiker can enter and exit the tent loads simpler. There’s typically extra cupboard space within the vestibule of those tents. In unhealthy climate, they’re normally not as sturdy however could make cooking within the vestibule simpler on most of those kinds of tents.

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

Having used and tents each kinds of those tents over time I’ve a private choice for side-entry tents and imagine that the perfect backpacking tents are side-entry tents. They simply 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 Aspect entry tent in use in Yellowstone NP on the CDT

Inside House

Inside house 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 Ground Dimensions are a compromise between having the biggest quantity of house for the minimal quantity of weight but making the design sturdy sufficient to face up to unhealthy climate. The tent must be giant sufficient for tall hikers and if it’s a 2-person backpacking tent there must 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 will likely be a decent squeeze for many {couples}. Typically {couples} favor a 3-person tent for the only function 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 favor 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 power to present good climate resistance in very windy climate.
Interior space of a tentInterior space of a tent
The inside house 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 present further safety to the ground of the tent. Normally, this isn’t wanted and is a waste of cash, and solely provides additional weight.

There are occasions when a footprint may be a good suggestion equivalent 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 choice is to come up with some Tyvek which is utilized in buildings for management of moisture. Ultralight floor sheets may be made through the use of Polycryo which is utilized by painters as a drop sheet.

General, the usage of 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 mountain climbing via areas with sharp thorns and recognize the added safety for a inflatable sleeping mat.


1P Tent vs 2P Tent vs 3P tent

A 2-person backpacking tent is extra in style than a 1-person ultralight tent. A solo hiker can profit from the extra house and skill to hike with one other individual on occasion.

  • 1P Tent – A 1 individual tent is normally 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 inside 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 most well-liked as each solo hikers and {couples} can match inside. However let’s be trustworthy most 2-person tents are a decent squeeze and there’s little room inside for 2 folks and positively not their gear which have to be saved exterior. Most two-person tents include two doorways and two vestibules.
  • 3P Tents – 3 Particular person tents are the favorites of {couples} and associates who go backpacking collectively because of the additional inside room. Some {couples} go mountain climbing with their canine and love the additional room of the three P tents. Typically the two doorways and vestibules aren’t wanted to retailer an excessive amount of gear as there’s sufficient inside. The three-person tent can also be loved by younger households desirous to take a younger youngster on quick in a single day backpacking journeys.

Doorways and Vestibules

The doorways and vestibules of tents are virtually as vital as different inside ground house. Having 2 doorways and a couple 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 stay comfortably in even the worst climate.

Like most individuals, I favor 2 doorways and vestibules however not for a similar motive as most individuals. An additional advantage of getting two vestibules and two doorways has extra to do with the climate. Once you arrange a tent at night time completely to have safety from the wind and rain solely to have it change course 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 advantage.

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 seashore

Single Wall vs Double Wall

Single wall tents are normally a lot lighter and are normally non-freestanding tents that require the usage of trekking poles to arrange. When mixed with materials equivalent to Dyneema they make for a really light-weight backpacking tent.

Double wall tents normally have an inside tent with plenty of mesh for air flow and might typically be arrange with out the outer tent fly making this an amazing choice for warm climate journey within the tropics or on these heat summer season nights. These tents are higher at coping with inner condensation because the inside tent has the power to guard in opposition to drips.

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

Tent Air flow

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

When it’s arrange the tent have to be designed to have the ability to catch no matter cross breeze there’s to cut back the interior 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

A lot of the tents on this evaluation will stand up to the kind of components that the surroundings will throw at you throughout 3 season backpacking journeys. They’ll stand up to an excellent quantity of wind, gentle dustings of snow, and heavy rain. They’ll all work effectively within the tropics as they’ve good air flow and can insulate in all however the coldest temperatures beneath freezing.

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

Tent Pegs and Poles

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

  • Tent Pegs – The ultralight hiker will favor to pay for some tremendous light-weight pegs made out of titanium. These are sturdy, gentle, and costly however for the gram-counting thru-hiker, they’re definitely worth the cash. Most of us will likely be happy with the aluminum tent pegs offered by the producer. If you wish to improve, check out The Finest Tent Stakes Assessment.
  • Tent Poles – Tents poles are so significantly better now than they had been 20 years in the past. The sunshine aluminum poles stand up to sturdy wind earlier than they break. All producers can ship out sections of poles in the event that they break. The most typical manner of breaking a pole isn’t having the female and male sections of the pole seated collectively accurately. Some tents require the usage of Trekking Poles to carry the tent up.
  • Carbon Fiber Tent Poles – Carbon Fiber tent poles are the most recent growth within the effort to save lots of weight. These poles are nonetheless of their first years of use and will definitely get higher with time. Simply notice that carbon poles have a horrible aspect impact of shattering once 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 trying to purchase a tent you will need to know precisely what the supposed use will likely be. Some folks will need the perfect tent for thru-hiking, others will need the tent for automotive tenting, others like to go canoeing and a few will need the tent for use for Bikepacking, bicycle touring, or some other outside exercise. When trying to find a tent attempt to have the top consumer in thoughts and discover a tent that can adapt to no matter use you propose.

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 a excessive altitude of over 4000 meters in Ecuador.

Tent Care and Repairing Zips

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

Cleansing a Tent

A tent must be washed in delicate cleaning soap when wanted and solely ever saved when it’s fully dry. Failure to retailer a tent when it’s dry will trigger mildew and different nasties to destroy the tent material.

Taking care of Zips

Zips are an element that can finally put on out. Hold the enamel of the zipper clear and lubricate on occasion with a dry lubricant solely. My choice 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.

Easy methods to Repair Zipper Slides

Zipper slides will finally put on out and have to be changed. Often, 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 picture above it may be simply solved through the use of pliers to crimp the sides of the slider ever so barely so the slide grips the enamel higher. Don’t overdo this otherwise you will be unable to open or shut the tent. In case you are out within the discipline, you may use a rock to bang it into the zipper slides to help in closing the hole. Simply watch out to do that evenly to ensure you don’t overdo it.

Zipper slides are simply fastened once they fail to shut the enamel of the zips.

Conclusion

Listed here are the perfect ultra-lightweight tents for thru-hiking and backpacking in 2025.

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Incessantly 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 stand up to reasonably sturdy wind.

Are Ultralight tents value it?

Ultralight tents will normally be a bit dearer than light-weight mountain climbing and backpacking tent. Often, the fabric is lighter, not as sturdy, and never as waterproof as heavier tents. In some circumstances, ultralight tents use supplies equivalent to Dyneema which isn’t solely sturdy and light-weight but additionally costly.

How lengthy do ultralight tents final?

Ultralight tents aren’t as sturdy as most different tents thus normally will final between 300-600 nights of use. For most individuals, sturdy ultralight tents will likely be a few years of use.

BikeHikeSafari Gear Assessment Course of

The writer, Brad McCartney from BikeHikeSafari is a small unbiased adventurer and outside gear tester who owns and runs BikeHikeSafari.com.

BikeHikeSafari isn’t half of a big weblog community and is proudly unbiased. All critiques on this website are unbiased and trustworthy gear critiques of out of doors merchandise by the writer.

The writer, 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 out of doors retail retailer and may be very skilled in what’s vital 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 in regards to the gear critiques are from the writer primarily based on his years of expertise. Hope this unbiased evaluation was useful for you.

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