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:
Mountain Hardwear Stiletto

The Mountain Hardwear Stiletto comes in at a very light 2 lbs, 8 oz. Foot-long pole sections make it pack down small.

Though not freestanding, it is very stable and durable, holding up in strong winds.

The middle pole supports a unique vestibule that runs the length of the tent, providing ample storage and cooking space. Lots of mesh makes for top-notch ventilation.

Runners Up:

Ultralight: Tarptent Contrail (Less than a pound!)

Value: MSR Skinny One (Light, roomy, stable)

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: Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo (2 lb, 7 oz)

Value: Kelty Gunnison 2.1 (Large, easy setup)

Best 3 Person Backpacking Tent:
NEMO Losi 3P

The NEMO Losi 3P 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 XT4

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: Big Agnes Lynx Pass 4 (Roomy, big vestibules, low weight)

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.