10 Best Backpacking Tents 2025 in the United States

The Night Cat Backpacking Tent is a lightweight and compact option designed for one person, making it well-suited for solo backpackers or campers who value easy transport. Weighing just 2 kg (4.4 lbs) and packing down to a small size (about 42 x 12 x 12 cm), it won’t add much bulk or weight to your pack. The tent fits one adult comfortably with enough room to store some gear inside, or can accommodate one adult and a child for casual camping.

Its standout feature is a 4-season waterproof rating with a 3000mm water resistance level, which means it should handle heavy rain and storms quite well. The fabric is durable Oxford cloth with sealed seams, and the fiberglass poles come with protective sleeves to prevent hand scrapes during setup. The dome shape and mesh panels on the door and roof improve airflow to reduce condensation, which is important in humid conditions.

Setup is straightforward and quick—most users can pitch the tent in 1 to 2 minutes by sliding poles into sleeves and securing it with included pegs and guy lines. The tent is a single-layer design, which may not provide as much insulation or warmth in very cold weather compared to double-wall tents. Ventilation is good, but being single-layer, it might not block all wind or cold as effectively. This tent offers excellent waterproof protection, easy setup, and a lightweight, compact package ideal for solo backpackers or those needing a simple shelter for hiking, camping, or scouting activities. Its single-layer design and modest size make it less ideal for harsh winter conditions or for those wanting extra space, but for a reliable, quick-to-pitch tent that balances weather resistance and portability well, it’s a strong contender.

The Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, lightweight option for backpacking and camping. Weighing in at 2400 grams, it is designed to be easy to carry without adding too much bulk to your pack. It offers 32 square feet of space, enough for two people, making it suitable for couples or friends on a trip.

The tent is fully waterproof with seam-taped construction, ensuring you stay dry in inclement weather, and the polyester fly allows for good airflow to prevent condensation buildup. The use of 7000 series aluminum poles adds to its durability, making it a sturdy option for various weather conditions. Its two large D-shaped doors and spacious vestibules provide convenient access and extra storage for gear, enhancing its practicality during trips.

The packed size is relatively compact, which is a plus for backpacking. Setup is straightforward, thanks to the free-standing design and clip pole attachment. One potential drawback is its seasonality, as it is best suited for fall and winter, so it might not provide the best ventilation during hotter months. Additionally, at 43 inches in maximum height, it offers limited headroom, which could be a concern for taller users. The Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent is a dependable and well-designed tent that balances weight, durability, and ease of use for backpacking and camping enthusiasts.

The Camppal 1 Person Tent is designed for solo backpackers who need a reliable, lightweight shelter. Weighing just 3.75 pounds, it’s easy to carry on long hikes. Its size is generous for a single user, with an extended length of 8.2 feet allowing taller campers to sleep comfortably and store some gear inside. This tent is built to hold up in all four seasons, featuring strong waterproofing with a 3500-4000mm water resistance rating and windproof materials, making it a solid choice for mountain or harsh weather conditions.

Setup is quick and straightforward, taking about 3 minutes with just one aluminum ridge pole, which is great if you want a hassle-free pitch. The tent fabric is fire retardant and includes seam taping to keep water out even during heavy rain. Ventilation is decent thanks to the design, though it’s a compact tent so airflow won’t be as open as larger models. The packed size and included carry bag are convenient for backpacking, though it’s not the smallest pack size you can find.

Given that it uses only one pole and a simple A-frame shape, it might not be as spacious or extra-sturdy as some higher-end tents for extreme mountaineering. Still, for general backpacking, hiking, hunting, or camping trips where a durable, waterproof, and easy-to-use shelter is needed, this tent performs well. Its strong customer ratings and warranty provide added peace of mind.