Some tents, especially non-freestanding ones, also have a bigger footprint, which means slotting into narrow campsites might be difficult. Semi-freestanding tents often require only two stakes on one end, while non-freestanding shelters often require four to six stakes for a proper pitch. That’s an important feature when camping in areas with solid rock ledge or loose sand, where sinking a stake may not be an option. Pitch Styleįreestanding tents don’t need to be staked out. The downside? They’re usually heavier than single-walled tents, which use a single waterproof or water-resistant body fabric. They tend to breathe much better than single-walled tents and therefore reduce condensation buildup. Most conventional three-season backpacking tents are double-walled-meaning they have a dedicated inner mesh body, pole structure, and external rainfly. Double- or Single-Walled Backpacking at Deluge Lake, Colorado. If you tend to hike in stormy climes, a generous peak height makes passing time in your shelter that much more pleasant. If you are tall or need more space in general, be sure to check length before choosing a tent. Some tents cut weight by narrowing dimensions, especially at the foot of the shelter, which could be a no-go for your non-cuddly camp-mates. Many solo hikers will still bring a two-person tent for the extra space and to keep gear inside. Yes, you’ll want to buy a tent that fits however many people you plan on hiking with-but there’s so much more to sizing a shelter. An ultralight 2 person tent may be too cramped, for example, so it is reasonable to add a little weight for more interior space. The lightest tent may be too flimsy for harsh weather or camping in rough terrain. The best ultralight tent for you is one that combines the key features that match your style of camping.īackcountry tents don’t have to always focus on weight, though. A small backpacking tent that can stand up to the elements may be labeled as ultralight. There are inevitably tradeoffs to dropping weight, which typically include a higher price tag, less durable materials, less interior space, and a non-freestanding pitch. What to Look For in a Backpacking Tent Weather approaching in Pangnirtung, Canada (Photo: Cavan Images via Getty) WeightĪs one of the heaviest items you’ll carry on your trip, nothing cuts pack weight like an ultralight shelter. Looking for something more specialized? Check out our favorite ultralight shelters and tarp-tents and our top winter tents. To help narrow down the search for this big-ticket piece of gear, we’ve highlighted our best backpacking tents on the market, along with helpful tips for sizing up your potential home away from home. From weight to wind resistance, dozens of factors play into finding the right tent for your adventure. Whether you’re headed out for a quick overnight or trekking the Continental Divide for several months, your tent is the first line of defense between you and the elements.
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