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Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Greatest Ultralight Tents for Via Mountain climbing & Backpacking [2024]


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It is a gear evaluate about the perfect ultralight tents for backpacking and thru-hiking in 2024.

The Greatest Backpacking tents of 2024 are getting higher, lighter, and extra compact. This 12 months many of the massive firms resembling NEMO, Large Agnes, Zpacks, Six Moon Designs, and Hyperlite Mountain Gear have superior additional mild variations of their common backpacking ultralight tents.

In 2024 there isn’t a want to take a look at heavy tents until you intend on mountaineering or visiting the windy excessive latitudes, then you have to 4 Season Winter Tents.

Some ultralight hikers would possibly even want an Ultralight Tarp to chop their base weight down as little as attainable. 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 probably be a compromise on price, weight, sturdiness, and measurement however its main operate is to maintain you dry and comfy. I’ve narrowed down the selection of the perfect ultralight backpacking tents under.

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 2024.


How We Examined

All of the Ultralight Backpacking Tents on this evaluate have been extensively evaluated and researched by the professional creator 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 creator in all types of climate. The analysis, testing, and expertise of the creator have mixed to provide you with the perfect ultralight tents for 2024. Learn the Assessment Coverage for additional particulars.

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Greatest Ultralight Backpacking Tents 2024

The Greatest Ultralight Backpacking Tents in 2024 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 measurement
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole and 6 tent stakes to arrange
Cons:
> Not the most affordable
> You could 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 attainable weight have to look no additional. The Zpacks Plex Solo is the lightest tent available on the market. Not solely is it a light-weight tent, however it has good climate resistance and a small pack measurement.

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’s sufficient room inside however most of your gear will must be saved within the vestibule space. If this doesn’t be just right for you, then a 2 particular person tent could be a greater choice, even when mountain climbing solo.

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

General, the Zpacks Plex Solo is the perfect ultralight 1P tent for 2024.

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 dangerous climate
> Small pack measurement
> Good inner dimensions for two individuals
Cons:
> Not low-cost

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

After I examined this tent I favored the way in which the underside of the zips are hooked up to the tent pegs by way of a wire and hooks system. This effectively thought out design just isn’t seen on too many different tents and permits you to 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 way in which 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 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 in a position to simply arrange this tent with 6 ultralight tent stakes, however 8 tent stakes will make the tent extra bombproof in windy climate.

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

The Zip model is just about $50 costlier 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 should you had been mountain climbing in areas that had been dry more often than not with solely occasional rain. PCT thru-hike could be instance of when the non-zip model could be higher as there will probably be a number of days of rain on the path.

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 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 dangerous climate
> Small pack measurement
Cons:
> A bit tight for 3 individuals, however good for two individuals
> Not low-cost

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

The Zpacks Triplex is available in each a zipper model and a typical (non-zip) model. The zip model is about $50 costlier and provides a few ounces. In case you are persistently trekking in areas with dangerous climate then this would be the best choice for you. In case you are 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 adequate as a 3 particular person tent. In reality, I believe this tent could be good for 2 individuals with 1 baby or perhaps a canine.

It is 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 personal tent stakes to arrange this tent as they don’t include the tent as normal. And like all trekking pole tents, after you have set it up a few instances it is rather straightforward and fast to arrange.

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

The Zpacks Triplex is the perfect ultralight 3-person tent and is without doubt one of the present editor’s selection tents for 2024.

Greatest Freestanding Ultralight Tent

Large Agnes Fly Creek Carbon

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

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

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

The poles are produced from Carbon Fibre which isn’t solely very sturdy and light-weight. They’re stronger and costlier than different tent poles however like all tents, tent poles do break. When that occurs with carbon fiber, it can 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 individuals. 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 measurement
> 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 may work very effectively in dangerous climate. It’s only a few grams heavier than the Zpacks Plex Solo and is a worthy light-weight tent for backpackers and thru-hikers.

Made with sag-proof Dyneema materials which is tremendous waterproof. No want to fret when the climate turns dangerous as this 1-person tent has you lined. Whereas you wouldn’t 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 dangerous climate.

General, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Ultramid 1P Tent could be very stable and greatest 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
> Excellent for Via-Mountain climbing
> 2 vestibules
Cons:
> Not the Most cost-effective
> You could 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 2024. This spectacular brand-new tent from HMG is certain to change into one of many extra common thru-hiking tents on the paths this 12 months.

Made with among the best supplies for ultralight tents, Dyneema Composite Fiber. After I used and examined this tent I favored the very small pack measurement and ultralight weight. The tent just isn’t solely light-weight, however it’s sturdy and it is without doubt one of the greatest in school in relation to its waterproof capacity.

I favored the two massive vestibules which can be sufficiently big 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 utilize 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 in a position to sleep within the tent and nonetheless have sufficient room to retailer my backpack at my ft. So, even tall hikers will match inside with out dealing with the difficulty of getting their heads or ft touching the ends of the tent.

The tent has 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 consider it’s price it for the advantage of 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 certain to be extraordinarily common 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 
> Massive 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 greatest light-weight tents produced 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 produced from a a lot stronger grade of material than Zpacks.

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

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

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

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

The double trekking pole/tent pole center created a simple 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 supplied 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 mild, and the vents on the prime in addition to controlling the quantity of area between the bottom of the tent and the bottom allowed for good air flow and might be adjusted to prioritize heat.

It was fast to arrange and has good climate resistance, 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 2024. The mix of a light-weight tent weight, nice climate resistance, and a fairly massive ground space make this the perfect 2-person backpacking tent in the meanwhile.

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 sufficiently big for a backpack
> Solely wants 1 trekking pole to arrange
> Nice Worth
Cons:
> 1P solely however there’s a 2P Duo is a superb choice for two individuals.

The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo is an superior ultralight trekking pole-style tent. This tent is greatest 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 most likely be utilizing ultralight trekking poles so they are going to 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 may be loads of air flow on this tent which is able to make it effectively suited to damp trails, nonetheless, this could be an ideal tent for a solo hiker wanting the greatest finances ultralight tent for the PCT. It will probably’t compete with the Zpacks vary for weight however it’s fairly a bit cheaper.

General, the is without doubt one of the greatest finances ultralight tents available on the market. Greatest fitted to ultralight solo hikers on a finances.

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
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> The tent pegs bend simply should you use a rock on laborious 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. Virtually 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, particularly the 1P, 2P and 3P. I need to admit I want the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2P model with the 2 doorways and two vestibules, even when mountain climbing solo. I think about it among the best light-weight 2-person tents.

The Inside area of the Nemo Hornet OSMO 2-person tent is a good squeeze for 2 individuals. In reality, I might say if you wish to use this tent for 2 individuals then think about the marginally bigger Nemo Dagger or comparable.

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 at all times been a problem with most tents. Whereas it reduces sag by a claimed 300% it’s but to match the tents produced from Dyneema which gives the perfect in school anti-sag materials.

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

General, it is without doubt one of the greatest light-weight mountain climbing tents available on the market. There’s a cause you will note this tent on so many backpacking trails in the meanwhile. It’s a good stable selection. I want the light-weight 2 Particular person tent which has extra inside area 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
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Extremely Light-weight Tent
> Nice guarantee and after-sales service
Cons:
> Not Low cost
> In very heavy rain water can splash by way of the mesh

The Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO is basically a lighter specification model of the Nemo Hornet. It makes use of lighter recycled Denier 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 ground helps hold 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 can be fairly roomy.

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

The Nemo Hornet OSMO Elite is costlier than the traditional Nemo Hornet. Is it price the additional worth for this ultralight tent? In case you are taking a look at 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 may be the perfect backpacking tent for a solo hiker wanting extra inside area than a one-person tent in a single extremely mild bundle.

Greatest 3P Backpacking Tent

Large 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
> Strong in dangerous climate
> Light-weight, the platinum model is the perfect ultralight freestanding tent.
Cons:
> A bit heavier than different tents on this evaluate

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

The Large Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is without doubt one of the extra spacious ultralight tents. It has a big inside area for a 3-person light-weight backpacking tent. There are two doorways and two vestibules which can be sufficiently big to prepare dinner in if the climate is dangerous.

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

General this is without doubt one of the greatest freestanding backpacking tents, in truth, it’s the greatest 3P backpacking tent for 2024. An excellent stability between the inside measurement, price, and light-packed weight. Really helpful for a pair wanting additional room or a beneficiant sized three-person backpacking tent.

Greatest Backpacking Tunnel Tent

Large Agnes Fly Creek HV UL

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

Weight: 1P 27 oz / 765 grams
Weight: 2P 31 oz / 878 grams
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 Large Agnes Fly Creek backpacking tent is without doubt 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 protecting the dangerous climate outdoors.

I need to admit that I’m not the most important fan of tunnel-style tents. It appears like crawling right into a cave. I a lot want aspect entry tents so whereas the type 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 cause. 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 would like an ultralight freestanding tent this could be your tent. Not too many dangerous issues to say about it, effectively, besides that it’s not a aspect entry tent. In relation to 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 seaside

Better of the Relaxation

The next tents will not be on the primary record 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 provides a bit extra inside area for 2 individuals sharing this backpacking tent.
  • Macpac Duolight – On the heavy aspect the Macpac Duolight is just obtainable in Australia and New Zealand. The Macpac Duolight 2-person bushwalking / tramping tent has a bigger inside area than all the opposite tents on this evaluate and is the one tent with a real bathtub ground that’s extra waterproof than most rain jackets with a large 10000 hydrostatic head ranking! Going into actually moist areas and don’t thoughts your tent being twice as heavy then this might be the tent for you.
  • REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL – The REI Co-Op Quarter Dome is without doubt one of the greatest finances backpacking tents. It’s a good compromise between price, light-weight, and good performance. As a high quality finances choice, it’s a worthy contender.
  • MSR Hubba Hubba NX – I beforehand owned the older MSR Hubba Hubba and liked the inside area, twin doorways, and vestibules however it was a heavy tent compared to all of the others on this evaluate. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is mild however not ultralight, good however not nice however very practical. It’s a good selection for {couples} wanting high quality bigger 2-person tent at an affordable worth.
  • 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 choice from Tarptent that can also 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 choice
  • 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 – The 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 is a light-weight finances 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 celebrities

Ultralight Tent Comparability Desk

Supply: Producers

Ultralight Tent Consumers Information


Worth

In relation to Backpacking Tents worth is vital and also you don’t have to lay our a fortune on a tent. Many of the tents on this evaluate will not be low-cost, they’re all the perfect light-weight tents obtainable in the meanwhile. With that top worth comes good high quality, guarantee, and plenty of nights of use within the backcountry.

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

Zpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibuleZpacks Duplex Zip interior and vestibule
The Zpacks Duplex Zip is on the expensive aspect however has sufficient room for two individuals 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 usually 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 resembling stuff sacks or tent pegs.


Bathtub Flooring

A bath ground refers back to the heavy-duty ground that strains the beneath aspect of the internal 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 tub ground is tremendous vital in protecting 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 bath ground in snow and heavy rain

Greatest Materials for Tents

The commonest materials utilized in tent building is Silnylon and Dyneema which is often known as Cuban Fiber.

Silnylon is an inexpensive and light-weight rip-stop nylon that’s impregnated with silicon and made to be waterproof. It’s made in 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, 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 places 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 robust wind. They often have significantly better climate safety.

On the draw back, it will probably 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 reside with. The hiker can enter and exit the tent quite a bit simpler. There may be usually extra cupboard space within the vestibule of those tents. In dangerous 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 consider 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 area is split into 3 sections, the inside ground dimensions, the peak of the tent often known as the height top, and the slope of the tent.

  • Inside Flooring Dimensions are a compromise between having the biggest quantity of area for the minimal quantity of weight but making the design sturdy sufficient to face up to dangerous climate. The tent ought to be massive sufficient for tall hikers and if it’s a 2-person backpacking tent there ought to be sufficient room for each hikers contained in the tent. However it’s a compromise, extra inside ground space equals extra weight and for a tent to be ultralight it is going to be a good squeeze for many {couples}. Typically {couples} want a 3-person tent for the only real goal of getting extra inside ground 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 want 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 provide good climate resistance in very windy climate.
Interior space of a tentInterior space of a tent
The inside area of a 1P tent is simply sufficiently big 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 provide further safety to the ground of the tent. Most often, this isn’t wanted and is a waste of cash, and solely provides additional weight.

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

General, using a footprint will probably 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 by way of areas with sharp thorns and recognize the added safety for an inflatable sleeping mat.


1P Tent vs 2P Tent vs 3P tent

A 2-person backpacking tent is extra common than a 1-person ultralight tent. A solo hiker can profit from the extra area and talent to hike with one other particular person sometimes.

  • 1P Tent – A 1 particular person tent is normally ultralight however is a good squeeze for the backpacker and their gear. With most of those small tents, the gear must be saved outdoors the internal 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 preferred as each solo hikers and {couples} can match inside. However let’s be trustworthy most 2-person tents are a good squeeze and there’s little room inside for 2 individuals and definitely 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 pals who go backpacking collectively because of the additional inside room. Some {couples} go mountain climbing with their canines and love the additional room of the three P tents. Typically the two doorways and vestibules will not be 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 baby on brief in a single day backpacking journeys.

Doorways and Vestibules

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

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

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

Single Wall vs Double Wall

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

Double wall tents normally have an inside tent with a number of mesh for air flow and might usually be arrange with out the outer tent fly making this an important choice 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 internal tent has the power to guard in opposition to drips.

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

Tent Air flow

Having the ability to scale 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 relation to air flow and have the additional advantage of getting the internal part of the tent that may be pitched with out the fly.

When it’s arrange it is vital that the tent is designed to have the ability to catch no matter cross breeze there’s to cut back the interior humidity and scale 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 evaluate will stand up to the form of parts that the setting will throw at you throughout 3 season backpacking journeys. They are going to stand up to 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 under freezing.

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

Tent Pegs and Poles

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

  • Tent Pegs – The ultralight hiker will want to pay for some tremendous light-weight pegs produced from titanium. These are sturdy, mild, and costly however for the gram-counting thru-hiker, they’re well worth the cash. Most of us will probably 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 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 just isn’t having the female and male sections of the pole seated collectively appropriately. Some tents require using Trekking Poles to carry the tent up.
  • Carbon Fiber Tent Poles – Carbon Fiber tent poles are the 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 aspect impact of shattering after 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 costlier.

Adaptability

When seeking to purchase a tent it is very important know precisely what the meant use will probably be. Some individuals 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 another outside exercise. When looking for a tent attempt to have the tip consumer in thoughts and discover a tent that may adapt to no matter use you plan.

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

Tent Care and Repairing Zips

Tents must be washed commonly and zippers must be clear and commonly maintained. With a bit of 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 ought to be washed in gentle cleaning soap when wanted and solely ever saved when it’s utterly dry. Failure to retailer a tent when it’s dry will trigger mould and different nasties to destroy the tent material.

Taking care of Zips

Zips are a component that may ultimately put on out. Maintain the enamel of the zipper clear and lubricate sometimes with a dry lubricant solely. My choice is to run a candle alongside the enamel to permit the wax to sit down on the enamel and act as a dry lubricant.

The right way to Repair Zipper Slides

Zipper slides will ultimately put on out and must 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 picture above it may be simply solved through the use of pliers to crimp the perimeters of the slider ever so barely so the slide grips the enamel higher. Don’t overdo this otherwise you won’t be able to open or shut the tent.

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

Conclusion

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

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Steadily 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 price it?

Ultralight tents will normally be a bit costlier than light-weight mountain climbing and backpacking tent. Normally, the fabric is lighter, not as sturdy, and never as waterproof as heavier tents. In some instances, ultralight tents use supplies resembling Dyneema which isn’t solely sturdy and light-weight but in addition costly.

How lengthy do ultralight tents final?

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

BikeHikeSafari Gear Assessment Course of

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

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

The creator, Brad McCartney is a really skilled triple crown thru-hiker, adventurer, and bike tourer having spent 1000s of nights sleeping in a tent and sleeping bag (Learn extra). He was a supervisor of an outside retail retailer and could be very skilled in what’s 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 creator based mostly on his years of expertise. Hope this unbiased evaluate was useful for you.

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