Types of Camping Tents Part 2: Best Backpacking Tents

When it comes to backpacking and overnight hiking, your tent can be your best friend. It shields you from the elements, provides comfort, and offers a sense of security amidst any environment in which you find yourself. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the perfect one? That's where we come in. In part 2 of this series, we've scoured the latest reviews and evaluated the top backpacking tents on the market. Here, we present the cream of the crop:

Best Overall Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Our top pick for the best backpacking tent goes to the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. This tent strikes the perfect balance between weight, durability, and functionality. It weighs in at a mere 3 pounds and 2 ounces, making it an ideal companion for those counting every ounce in their backpacks. But don't let the lightweight design fool you; this tent offers a roomy 29 square feet of floor space, two doors, and 18 square feet of vestibule space.

The Copper Spur is built for comfort, featuring excellent storage options with pockets for your essentials. Its bathtub floor and rainfly ensure a dry night's sleep, while quality mesh provides ventilation and keeps condensation from forming. It's perfect for summer camping, backpacking, and multi-day trips where you want that sweet spot between comfort and weight.

Just make sure to handle it with care and protect the delicate materials. For backpackers who prioritize electronics or plan some downtime in the tent, this is a fantastic choice.

Best Budget Backpacking Tent: REI Co-op Trail Hut 2

For backpackers who want reliability without breaking the bank, the REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 is our budget-friendly champion. Weighing in at 5 pounds and 15 ounces, it's not the lightest tent out there, but it beats the pack in terms of durability and functionality. It's the workhorse of tents, capable of standing up to the elements and rough handling.

Setting up the Trail Hut 2 is simple, thanks to its premium materials and thoughtful design. The 66 and 68-denier materials are much tougher than many models in this category. The fly snugly fits over the tent, providing comprehensive protection from the elements. In mild weather, you can roll back the fly, offering excellent cross-ventilation.

While it might not be the first choice for ultralight hikers, this tent is perfect for shorter backpacking trips with a partner. Its rugged build ensures you will stay comfortable even in challenging weather conditions. Splitting the weight between two hikers makes it a manageable load. If you’re into short overnight backpacking trips, this tent is for you!

Best Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Zpacks Plex Solo

If you're all about shaving off every possible ounce from your backpack, the Zpacks Plex Solo is your dream ultralight backpacking tent. Weighing in at an astonishing 1 pound and 2.5 ounces, this tent is the epitome of lightweight design. It's perfect for solo adventurers who want to keep their gear as minimal as possible.

Constructed with Dyneema fabric, known for its hydrophobic nature, sag resistance, and strength-to-weight ratio, the Plex Solo is incredibly light yet incredibly durable. It offers a breathable, well-ventilated space with low condensation, making it suitable for a range of conditions.

It's important to note, however, that ultralight tents like this one are susceptible to ripping and should be handled with care. Its lightweight design also means it's not as stable in high winds as some heavier options. But for solo hikers aiming for the lightest possible setup, the Plex Solo is a top choice.

Choosing the right backpacking tent is a crucial decision for any outdoor enthusiast. The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, REI Co-op Trail Hut 2, and Zpacks Plex Solo cater to different needs, from lightweight minimalism to budget-friendly reliability. No matter your preference, these top picks for 2023 ensure a comfortable, protected, and memorable journey into the great outdoors.
Be sure to check out the other blogs in this series: Car camping tents, and Family Tents (coming soon).

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