The Best Backpacking Tent

What is the best backpacking tent? Ask 10 different backpackers this question, and you'll likely get 10 different answers. It isn't easy to narrow down the hundreds of models available to the single best one, since so many variables must be taken into account.

It seems to me that weight should be the primary--though not the only--factor in choosing the best backpacking tent. Every ounce counts in the backcountry.

Durability and weatherproofing is also very important. What good is a tent if it can't stand up to the rain, wind, and abrasion of many backpacking trips?

Size, though of lesser concern, certainly comes into play. We don't expect miracles, but it's nice to have a little head and elbow room, especially when nasty weather keeps us tent-bound.

What about the price? Ah...forget the price. We're looking for the best backpacking tent, period. Quality doesn't come cheap.

However, if you can't afford the absolute best, you can still get a darn good tent at a reasonable price.

So here are my picks for the best backpacking tents, from 1 person to 4 person. I've chosen one best tent for each category, with a couple of worthy runners up: the best ultralight backpacking tent and the best value backpacking tent.

Best One Person Backpacking Tent:
REI Quarter Dome T1

The REI Quarter Dome T1 has a great space-to-weight ratio due to its unique "Tension Truss" pole configuration. It set up easily with color-coded poles, has good headroom and a good-sized vestibule.

It is narrow, though, and not long enough for people over 6 feet tall.

Runners Up:

Ultralight: Big Agnes Fly Creek 1 (1 lb, 14 oz)

Value: Eureka Spitfire (light, easy to set up)

Best 2 Person Backpacking Tent:
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2

At a mere 3 lb, 6 oz, you'd expect the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 2 to be tiny--but you'd be wrong.

It's plenty spacious for two, with near-vertical walls, dual doors and two large vestibules, and a generous 42 inches of headroom.

Weatherproofing and ventilation are also excellent.

Runners Up:

Ultralight: Nemo Meta 2P (2 lb, 14 oz)

Value: Mountainsmith Morrison

Best 3 Person Backpacking Tent:
NEMO Losi 3P

The NEMO Losi 3 gives you a luxurious 50 square feet of floor space, with extra elbowroom thanks to 2 crossing poles.

Despite the generous dimensions, it still comes in under 6 pounds.

Stability is rock solid. A smart organizer pocket keeps loose items in order.

Runners Up:

Ultralight: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL 3 (4 lb, 3 oz)

Value: Sierra Designs Zeta 3 (Roomy, huge vestibule)

Best 4 Person Backpacking Tent:
Sierra Designs Lightning XT 4

The Sierra Designs Lightning XT 4 packs an amazing amount of space into a very light package--under 7 pounds. An asymmetrical hubbed pole system maximizes interior space while minimizing weight.

Weatherproofing is impeccable, shedding heavy rain and high winds, while the all mesh body enhances ventilation.

Two doors make entry and exit easy, and two vestibules handle gear storage--although they're a little small for 4 people's stuff.

Runner Up:

Value: REI Half Dome 4 (Roomy, easy set-up)

These are my picks for the best backpacking tent. If you can afford to, it's worth spending more for the highest quality and performance. Your investment will pay dividends in outdoor enjoyment for years to come.