Backpacking Tents

Backpacking tents are categorized by capacity: from 1- to 4-person models. Most tent names include a number for the capacity: REI Half Dome 2, for example.

To save weight, tent interiors are "cozy." No industry standard defines per-person dimensions, so a 2-person tent size can vary from brand to brand. And ultralight models are likely to be extra compact.

If you're larger than average, or you simply crave a little more space, one option is to look at tents designated one-person larger than your group. Alternatively, you can hunt for a tent that's one or two inches wider or longer than average. Some offer clues in the name: adding a "plus," for example. Always compare exact dimensions between tents you're considering, though, if having more floor space is important to you.

Your main choice is between a 3-season and a 4-season tent. The vast majority of hikers, especially newcomers to the backcountry, will choose a three-season tent. Because worst-case weather scenarios won't be the same for every trip, frequent backpackers sometimes choose to own more than one tent.

3-Season Backpacking Tents

These tents balance the need to keep weight low with the need to handle the wide range of conditions that spring, summer and fall can conjure up. Properly pitched, 3-season tents can withstand downpours and light snow but are not built for sustained exposure to harsh storms, violent winds or heavy snow. Key features:

• Ample mesh panels to boost airflow and keep out insects
• More upright walls to create more interior headroom
• Fewer poles and lighter fabrics to keep weight low

Extended-Season Backpacking Tents (3-4 or 3+ Season)

These tweener tents are suitable for summer use but also trips in early spring and late fall when snow may be encountered. They're also good for trips to exposed, high-elevation destinations where snow can surprise you. Key features (compared to pure 3-season models):

• Fabric panels that can zip over mesh areas to keep out blowing snow, and hold in more warmth
• One or two more poles (than a 3-season tent) for additional strength

4-Season Mountaineering Tents

These winter tents are engineered to withstand fierce winds and substantial snow loads; however, they have less ventilation and can feel stuffy in mild weather. Key features (compared to 3-season and extended-season models):

• More poles and more heavy-duty fabrics
• Rounded dome designs that can sustain winds and eliminate flat roof spaces where snow can collect
• Fewer mesh panels; or they might have zip fabric panels that let you cover the mesh panels when needed
• Rainflys that extend close to the ground

Four-season tents also include lightweight single-wall tents that have waterproof/breathable walls and no rainfly. In humid conditions condensation can accumulate inside, so a single-wall tent is best for cold, dry conditions. (For tips on dealing with a humid tent interior, read How to Prevent Condensation in a Tent.)

The weight of your backpacking tent is a big part of your overall load, so tent designers work hard to keep weight low. Your biggest tradeoffs to cut weight are having less space, fewer features and less durability over the long haul. If you choose carefully, though, you should be able to find a lightweight tent that feels reasonably roomy and comfortable to you.

While heavy-duty materials make a tent more durable, ultralight tents can be surprisingly sturdy. If you want a premium ultralight tent, you'll pay more for ultralight-yet-strong materials. Also, the term "ultralight" is used liberally by brands—if every ounce matters, then check specs carefully when you shop.

Key Tent Specs

• Minimum trail weight: This is the weight of the tent body, rainfly and poles only—the bare essentials. You will probably pack more tent-related gear (e.g., stakes, footprint), but this is the best spec for comparison. (Note that some ultralight shelters are designed to function without the need for a separate rainfly or tent poles, so their minimum trail weights will reflect only the essential components that come with those tents.)
• Packaged weight: This is the weight of all the components you get with a purchase: body, rainfly, poles, stakes, stuff sack pole sack, instructions and more. The weight you'll carry on the trail will be somewhere between this and the minimum weight.
• Packed size: The amount of space the tent takes up in a pack also relates to how easy a tent is to carry. You can reduce this space by splitting up components—have your partner take the poles and rainfly, for example, while you carry the tent body. You can also save a few extra ounces when you do this by leaving the tent storage bag at home.

Minimalist Shelters

Most backpacking tents have a double-wall design that includes a main tent body (also known as the canopy) plus an exterior rainfly. If you're a hiker who focuses on saving every possible ounce, you have additional options.

Fly/footprint option: Many double-wall tents have an ultralight setup option, where the footprint (sold separately), poles and rainfly can be pitched together without the main tent canopy.

Tarp shelters: This catchall category includes ultralight rainflys that shield you from rain and snow, but not bugs or damp ground.

Hammock tents: This is a type of hammock that, at a minimum, also includes a tarp-like rainfly and bug netting.

Bivy sacks: Short for bivouac sack, this is a waterproof, breathable barrier for your sleeping bag.

Bug shelters: Most bug shelters consist of netting and some poles, but no floor. More elaborate models are tents where the entire canopy is made out of bug netting.