Greatest Ultralight Tents for Via Climbing & Backpacking [2023]


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This can be a gear assessment about the perfect ultralight tents for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2023.

The Greatest Backpacking tents of 2023 are getting higher, lighter, and extra compact. This yr many of the massive corporations reminiscent of NEMO, Massive Agnes, Zpacks, Six Moon Designs, and Hyperlite Mountain Gear have superior additional mild variations of their well-liked backpacking ultralight tents.

In 2023 there isn’t a want to have a look at heavy tents except you intend on mountaineering or visiting the windy excessive latitudes, then you have to 4 Season Winter Tents.

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

If you’re available in the market for a brand new tent there are numerous choices. An excellent high quality tent might be a compromise on price, weight, sturdiness, and dimension however its major operate 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 data and expertise to hand-pick solely the perfect tents for ultralight hikers for 2023.


How We Examined

All of the Ultralight Backpacking Tents on this assessment have been extensively evaluated and researched by the professional creator who has a few years of expertise in Via-Climbing, Backpacking, and Climbing. A number of the tents have been bought and a few have been provided by the producer. They’ve been rigorously examined by the creator in all types of climate. The analysis, testing, and expertise of the creator have mixed to give you the perfect ultralight tents for 2023. Learn the Assessment Coverage for additional particulars.

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Greatest Ultralight Backpacking Tents 2023

The Greatest Ultralight Backpacking Tents in 2023 are:

Greatest Ultralight 1P Tent – General

ZPacks Plex Solo

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

Weight: 13.9 oz / 395 grams
Professionals:

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

Solo ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers are a particular breed of individuals. And those that wish to carry solely the necessities with the lightest potential weight must 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 simple to arrange while you arrive at camp.

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

General, the Zpacks Plex Solo is the perfect ultralight 1P tent for 2023.

Greatest Ultralight 2P Tent – General

Zpacks Duplex Zip Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent ReviewZpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review

Weight: 20.4 oz / 577 grams
Professionals:

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

The ZPacks Duplex Tent has been round for a couple 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 enchantment 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.

Once I examined this tent I favored the best way the underside of the zips are hooked up to the tent pegs through a wire and hooks system. This effectively thought out design will not be seen on too many different tents and means that you can maintain the tent pitched solidly when the zips are closed, open, or with just one facet of the vestibule open. It additionally permits the zips to be simply zipped all the best way to the underside with out issue. Whereas it’s fiddly to make use of the very first time, it’s a easy function like this that units this tent other than many others within the area.

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 load or price of the tent 2.5 oz (71 grams).

I used to be capable of 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 adequate for 2 backpackers to sleep comfortably. However your backpack and kit will should be saved within the vestibule space. There are handly inner storage pockets which are nice on your telephone, PLB, and headlamp.

The Zip model is just about $50 dearer and 1.4 oz / 38 grams heavier than the non-zip model, however for my part, it’s a a lot better possibility. The one caveat can be if you happen to have been mountaineering in areas that have been dry more often than not with solely occasional rain. PCT thru-hike can be a very good instance of when the non-zip model can be higher as there might be a couple of days of rain on the path.

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

Greatest Ultralight 3P Tent – General

Zpacks Triplex Trekking Pole Tent

Zpacks Triplex reviewZpacks Triplex review

Weight: 21.6 oz / 612 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Waterproof and seam sealed
> Good in unhealthy 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 may very well be for you. The tent is made with Dyneema to be as mild and powerful as potential.

The Zpacks Triplex is available in each a zipper model and a normal (non-zip) model. The zip model is about $50 dearer and provides a few ounces. If you’re persistently trekking in areas with unhealthy climate then this would be the most suitable choice for you. If you’re mountaineering in areas with usually good climate then similar 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 adequate as a 3 particular person tent. The truth is, I feel this tent can be excellent for 2 folks with 1 youngster or perhaps a canine.

This can be a 3-person trekking pole tent so you have to 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 you have set it up a few instances it is vitally 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 without doubt one of the present editor’s selection tents for 2023.

Greatest 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 16 oz / 454 grams
Weight: 2P 18 oz / 510 grams
Professionals:

> Semi-free standing
> Extraordinarily Light-weight
> Greatest 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 Cloth 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 particular person model, the Fly Creek Carbon HV 1P weighs 18 oz / 510 grams.

Constructed from 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 are usually not solely tremendous light-weight however far more delicate than different tents. Let me clarify.

The poles are created from 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 is going to splinter and shatter.

General, 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 different 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.

Greatest Light-weight 1P Tent – General

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Mid 1P Tent

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

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

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

The newly up to date Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 1 particular person tent is a really sturdy tent that can work very effectively in unhealthy climate. It is just 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 capacity.

Greatest Light-weight Tent – General

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Tent

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

Weight: 24 oz / 680 grams
Professionals:

> Ultralight
> Very Waterproof
> Nice Waterproof Zips
> Good for Via-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 latest ultralight single-wall tent available on the market in 2023. This spectacular brand-new tent from HMG is bound to develop into one of many extra well-liked 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 favored the very small pack dimension and ultralight weight. The tent will not be solely light-weight, however it’s sturdy and it is without doubt one of the finest at school relating to its waterproof capacity.

I favored the two massive vestibules which are 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 particular person, however I used to be capable of sleep within the tent and nonetheless have sufficient room to retailer my backpack at my toes. So, even tall hikers will match inside with out dealing with the difficulty of getting their heads or toes 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 price it for the good thing about having a completely enclosed tent, particularly in inclement climate.

General, I’m struggling to search out too many damaging 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 well-liked on thru-hiking trails this yr.

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 without doubt one of the finest light-weight tents created 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 created from 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 full 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 robust.

The Ultramid 2 is pricey and also you additionally must buy the Full Mesh Interior tent physique. That may be a enormous outlay for a light-weight tent. It’s good to know it’s lined by a very good 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 have been impressed with the inside house contained in the tent, as we each have tall torsos and like a good quantity of private house.

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

We opted for the floorless mesh insert which supplied 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 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, having the ability to face 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 2023. The mix of a light-weight tent weight, nice climate resistance, and a fairly massive flooring space make this the perfect 2-person backpacking tent in the mean time.

Greatest Price range Ultralight Tent

Six Moon Designs Lunar Assessment

Six Moon Design Lunar Solo ReviewSix Moon Design Lunar Solo Review

Weight: 26 oz / 740 grams
Professionals:

> 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 superb 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.

If you’re planning to thru-hike then you’ll most likely 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 can make it effectively suited to damp trails, nonetheless, this might be an ideal tent for a solo hiker wanting the finest price range ultralight tent for the PCT. It may well’t compete with the Zpacks vary for weight however it’s fairly a bit cheaper.

General, the is without doubt one of the finest price range ultralight tents available on the market. Greatest suited to ultralight solo hikers on a price range.

Greatest 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 if you happen to 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 one in all 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 nearly 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 mountaineering solo. I think about it among the best light-weight 2-person tents.

The Inside house of the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2-person tent is a decent squeeze for 2 folks. The truth is, I might 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 sturdy.

The newly up to date OSMO ripstop materials reduces sag when moist which has all the time been a difficulty with most tents. Whereas it reduces sag by a claimed 300% it’s but to match the tents created from Dyneema which affords the perfect at school anti-sag materials.

The one concern is the within mesh close to the pole connection loop is inclined to tearing over a protracted time period.

General, it is without doubt one of the finest light-weight mountaineering tents available on the market. There’s a purpose you will note this tent on so many backpacking trails in the mean 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 Greatest Tent for the Appalachian Path.

Greatest 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 by the mesh

The Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO is basically a lighter specification model of the Nemo Hornet. It makes use of lighter recycled Denier Cloth 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 flooring helps maintain the load down too.

The result’s that this is without doubt one of the lightest semi-freestanding double wall tents. The 2P model has two doorways and two vestibules which are 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 price the additional value for this ultralight tent? If you’re going extremely mild then I might say sure.

General, the Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite is without doubt one of the lightest semi-freestanding ultralight tents that might be the perfect backpacking tent for a solo hiker wanting extra inside house than a one-person tent in a single extremely mild bundle.

Greatest 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
among the best light-weight freestanding tent
> Stable in unhealthy climate
> Light-weight, the platinum model is the perfect ultralight freestanding tent.
Cons:
> A little bit heavier than different tents on this assessment

I used Massive Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 whereas mountaineering components of the Pacific Crest Path and Bikepacking by 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 facet, there’s a lot to love

The Massive Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is without doubt 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 are 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 consider they’re equal of their waterproofness.

General this is without doubt one of the finest freestanding backpacking tents, in truth, it’s the finest 3P backpacking tent for 2023. An excellent stability between the inside dimension, price, and light-packed weight. Advisable for a pair wanting additional room or a beneficiant sized three-person backpacking tent.

Greatest Backpacking Tunnel Tent

Massive 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
Professionals:

> Semi-free standing
> Light-weight
> Cheap 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 Massive Agnes Fly Creek backpacking tent is without doubt one of the hottest light-weight semi-freestanding tents on the long-distance mountaineering trails of the world.

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

I have 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 favor facet entry tents so whereas the fashion of the tent doesn’t work for me, the whole lot else works nice.

Having mentioned that, there are numerous followers of this tent for good purpose. This is without doubt one of the lightest freestanding tents available on the market at 29oz /822 grams for the 1P and 32oz / 907 grams for the 2P.

If you’d like an ultralight freestanding tent this is likely to be your tent. Not too many unhealthy issues to say about it, effectively, besides that it isn’t a facet entry tent. In the case of an ultralight double walled tent, this is without doubt 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 are usually not on the principle checklist however not as a result of they weren’t adequate however as a result of those above have 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 facet the Macpac Duolight is just out there 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 assessment and is the one tent with a real bathtub flooring 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 without doubt one of the finest price range backpacking tents. It’s a good compromise between price, 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 cherished the inside house, twin doorways, and vestibules however it was a heavy tent compared to all of the others on this assessment. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is mild however not ultralight, good however not nice however very useful. It’s a sensible choice for {couples} wanting a very good high quality bigger 2-person tent at an affordable value.
  • Tarptent Stratosphere Li – The Tarptent Stratosphere Li is without doubt one of 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 underneath 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 effectively 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 underneath the celebrities

Ultralight Tent Comparability Desk

Supply: Producers

Ultralight Tent Consumers Information


Worth

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

General, relating to worth for cash and a light-weight backpacking tent the cash is effectively spent and a tent might 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 facet 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 package.

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 hardly ever consists of issues reminiscent of stuff sacks or tent pegs.


Bathtub Ground

A bath flooring refers back to the heavy-duty flooring that traces the beneath facet of the inside 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 flooring is tremendous essential in holding the rain and moisture from coming 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 tub flooring in snow and heavy rain

Greatest Materials for Tents

The most typical materials utilized in tent building is Silnylon and Dyneema which is often known 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 numerous thicknesses that are sometimes called denier. 20 denier material is taken into account ultralight.

Dyneema Composite Fiber is tremendous costly however has superior power to weight. It additionally performs effectively as a tent materials because it won’t sag when it will get moist, in contrast to 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 usually have superior safety in opposition to storms and powerful wind. They typically have a lot better climate safety.

On the draw back, it could 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 Aspect Entry Tents Higher

Aspect entry tents are a lot simpler to stay with. The hiker can enter and exit the tent rather a lot simpler. There’s usually extra cupboard space within the vestibule of those tents. In unhealthy climate, they’re often 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 through the years I’ve a private desire for side-entry tents and consider that the perfect 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 Aspect entry tent in use in Yellowstone NP on the CDT

Inside Area

Inside house is split into 3 sections, the inside flooring dimensions, the peak of the tent often known 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 resist unhealthy climate. The tent must be massive 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 flooring space equals extra weight and for a tent to be ultralight it is going to be a decent squeeze for many {couples}. Usually {couples} favor a 3-person tent for the only real function of getting extra inside flooring space.
  • Peak Peak 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 provide 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 offer 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 particular person 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 offer extra safety to the ground of the tent. Generally, 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 reminiscent of when tenting in deserts or areas with sharp thorns or muddy situations 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 may be made by utilizing Polycryo which is utilized by painters as a drop sheet.

General, the usage of a footprint might be as much as you. I’ve used them on quite a few events and personally, I don’t like them. However when mountaineering by 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 well-liked than a 1-person ultralight tent. A solo hiker can profit from the extra house and skill to hike with one other particular person every now and then.

  • 1P Tent – A 1 particular person 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 outdoors the inside tent within the vestibule. They need to be lengthy sufficient and tall sufficient so even massive hikers can match inside with out touching the partitions of the tent. Most 1 particular person 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 sincere most 2-person tents are a decent squeeze and there may be little room inside for 2 folks and positively not their gear which should be saved outdoors. Most two-person tents include two doorways and two vestibules.
  • 3P Tents – 3 Particular person tents are the favorites of {couples} and mates who go backpacking collectively because of the additional inside room. Some {couples} go mountaineering with their canine and love the additional room of the three P tents. Usually the two doorways and vestibules are usually not wanted to retailer an excessive amount of gear as there may be sufficient inside. The three-person tent can be loved by younger households desirous 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 flooring house. Having 2 doorways and a pair of vestibules makes the dwelling preparations for folks sharing a tent so a lot better. Solo hikers solely want a single door and vestibule for all their gear and wish 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 purpose as most individuals. An additional benefit of getting two vestibules and two doorways has extra to do with the climate. If 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 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 seashore

Single Wall vs Double Wall

Single wall tents are often a lot lighter and are often non-freestanding tents that require the usage of trekking poles to arrange. When mixed with materials reminiscent of 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 might usually be arrange with out the outer tent fly making this an important possibility for warm climate journey within the tropics or on these heat summer time 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

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 inside 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 may be 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

Many of the tents on this assessment will face up to the form of parts that the surroundings will throw at you throughout 3 season backpacking journeys. They are going to face up to a very good quantity of wind, mild dustings of snow, and heavy rain. They are going to 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 resistant 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 created from titanium. These are sturdy, mild, and costly however for the gram-counting thru-hiker, they’re definitely worth the cash. Most of us might be glad with the aluminum tent pegs supplied by the producer. If you wish to improve, check out The Greatest Tent Stakes Assessment.
  • Tent Poles – Tents poles are so a lot better now than they have been 20 years in the past. The sunshine aluminum poles face up to sturdy 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 the usage of Trekking Poles to carry the tent up.
  • Carbon Fiber Tent Poles – Carbon Fiber tent poles are the newest 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 observe that carbon poles have a horrible facet impact of shattering once they break. So is the additional weight saving price 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 supposed use might 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 every other out of doors exercise. When trying to find a tent attempt to have the tip person in thoughts and discover a tent that can 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 should be washed recurrently and zippers should be clear and recurrently maintained. With slightly 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 gentle cleaning soap when wanted and solely ever saved when it’s fully 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 can ultimately put on out. Hold the tooth of the zipper clear and lubricate every now and then with a dry lubricant solely. My desire is to run a candle alongside the tooth to permit the wax to sit down on the tooth and act as a dry lubricant.

How one can Repair Zipper Slides

Zipper slides will ultimately put on out and should 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 sides of the slider ever so barely so the slide grips the tooth higher. Don’t overdo this otherwise you will be unable to open or shut the tent.

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

Conclusion

Listed below are the perfect ultra-lightweight tents for thru-hiking and backpacking in 2023.

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Continuously 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 capable of face up to reasonably sturdy wind.

Are Ultralight tents price it?

Ultralight tents will often be a bit dearer than light-weight mountaineering and backpacking tent. Normally, the fabric is lighter, not as sturdy, and never as waterproof as heavier tents. In some circumstances, ultralight tents use supplies reminiscent of Dyneema which isn’t solely sturdy and lightweight but in addition 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 might be a few years of use.

BikeHikeSafari Gear Assessment Course of

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

BikeHikeSafari will not be half of a big weblog community and is proudly unbiased. All opinions on this web site are unbiased and sincere gear opinions 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 may be very skilled in what’s essential when utilizing and testing gear for opinions like this.

BikeHikeSafari won’t ever obtain any cash for opinions and they don’t settle for sponsored opinions on this web site. All of the feedback in regards to the gear opinions are from the creator based mostly on his years of expertise. Hope this unbiased assessment was useful for you.

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