Looking for the lightest, most spacious, and waterproof tent for your backpacking trip? This list has you covered!
Whether you’re solo or with a companion, including your dog or child, this guide to the best 2 person backpacking tents is for you. Stay tuned for essential buying tips and FAQs!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Big Agnes Copper Backpacking Tent
Runner-Up
NEMO Dagger Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Budget Option
REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 Tent
Best Overall
Big Agnes Copper Backpacking Tent
The upgraded Big Agnes Backpacking Tent is the best 2-person backpacking tent for backpackers looking for something lightweight, easy to set up, and stays dry during inclement weather. This tent also has the best design for livability and space usability.
This 2-person backpacking tent is available in two colors: Olive Green and Orange. It has a packed weight of 3 lbs. 2 oz. Its floor length is 88 inches, with a peak height of 40 inches.
Pros
- Big Agnes, a trusted US brand
- Lightest and longest backpacking tent on the list
- Color-coded system for easy setup
- mtnGLO technology for ambient lighting
- 3-D mezzanine storage at the foot
- Awning for extra livable space
Cons
- Big Agnes recommends using a matching footprint to protect the floor from water, and it is not included
Runner-Up
NEMO Dagger OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent
The NEMO Dagger OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent is a fantastic lightweight choice for backpackers. Its durable polyester/nylon ripstop fabric is designed to keep you four times dryer than previous versions of this tent.
Although this tent is marketed as a 3-season tent, it’s sturdy enough to possibly withstand four seasons!The packed weight of this tent is 4 lbs. 2 oz. It has a floor length of 87 inches and a peak height of 42 inches.
Pros
- OSMO fabric reduces sag, wind, and rain
- Landing Zone storage tub protects gear
- Divvy Cube stuff sack for weight sharing
- Color-coded poles for easy setup
- Protected by NEMO lifetime warranty
Cons
- Protective footprint is not included.
- On the heavier side for a backpacking tent.
Budget Option
REI Co-Op Trail Hut 2 Tent
The REI Co-op Trail Hut is the best 2-person backpacking tent for budgets. Its packed weight, length, and peak high are in line with some of the more expensive 2-person backpacking tents.
The Trail Hut has a packed weight of 5 lbs. 15 oz. Though heavier than higher cost items, it is manageable for shorter trips and beginners who are not ready to commit to a bigger price tag without sacrificing quality.
Pros
- Ridge pole creates more living space in a compact footprint
- Inexpensive 2-person backpacking tent from a high-quality brand
- Footprint included
Cons
- Heavier than other options at 5 lbs. 15 oz.
Best Ultralight
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 Solution-Dyed Tent
Don’t be fooled by the name, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall is the lightest backpacking tent on our list. With a packed weight of 2 lbs. 8oz., you will be sure to have valuable space for your other essentials. It’s low weight is not without it’s set backs, as peak height is also on the lower end at just 39 inches.
The tent and included rainfly are made of high-quality ripstop material ad the trademark TipLock corner construction ensure set-up is quick and easy.
Pros
- Ultralight weight at 2 lbs. 8 oz.
- High quality materials
- Rainfly included
- Ultralight stakes included
Cons
- Footprint is not included
- Packed weight increases to 3 lbs. 14 oz. when rainfly and footprint are included
Best Beginner
Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Though the brand may be unfamiliar, the Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent has racked up over 2,000 Amazon reviews for 4.6 stars. If you are stepping into the world backpack camping and are overwhelmed by the costs of quality gear, this is a great option.
At 5.7 lbs., it is heavier than some of our other options, but the lower price point allows you flexibility to try backpacking without breaking the bank. It is also waterproof and easy to set-up, which are important features regardless of your skill.
Pros
- Low cost without sacrificing ease of use
- Good for first-timers
- Large windows for excellent ventilation
Cons
- Heavier than some of the other options
- The large windows also cause it to become chillier at night
Best 2-Person Backpacking Tent Buyer’s Guide
Dimensions:
- Length, width, and height are crucial. Look for:
- Length: 80 inches minimum, 90 inches for taller campers.
- Width: 25 inches per person.
- Height: Consider peak height for comfort while sitting or lying down.
- Wall Geometry: A pyramid shape feels more cramped than a cube, even with similar floor dimensions.
- Capacity: A 2-person capacity tent often fits two sleeping pads snugly.
- Seasonal Durability: Three-season tents are standard, while four-season tents handle snow and wind better but are heavier.
- Weight: Packed weight matters most for backpacking. Aim for around 3-4 lbs for easier carrying.
- Livability: Look for easy setup, ventilation with mesh windows, and sufficient storage like vestibules.
- Color: Light colors make the interior feel spacious, while dark colors offer better sun protection.
- Zippers: Treat zippers gently to prevent breakage, as they are a common complaint in tents.
- Materials: Nylon and polyester are common in lightweight backpacking tents for their durability and weather resistance.
Wrapping up the Best 2-Person Backpacking Tents for 2023
So now you know all the details about the best 2-person backpacking tents for 2023. If you’re planning on backpacking all summer long, splurging on the Big Agnes or Nemo Dagger is a wise idea.
Before you leave, read these tips on how to pack a tent in a backpack to make your backpacking journey a little easier!