How to Choose a Backpacking Tent

Light enough for the backcountry and strong enough for the front country, the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 tent checks every box if you're looking for a comfy spot to snooze after a day on the road or trail.
Imported.
View all Big Agnes Backpacking Tents| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 3-season |
| Sleeping Capacity | 2-person |
| Minimum Trail Weight | 5 pounds |
| Fly / Footprint Pitch Weight | 3 lbs. 11 oz. |
| Packaged Weight | 5 lbs. 8 oz. |
| Packed Size | 7 x 21 inches |
| Floor Dimensions | 90 x 52 inches |
| Floor Area | 33 square feet |
| Vestibule Area | 9 + 9 square feet |
| Peak Height | 42 inches |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors |
| Number of Poles | 3 |
| Pole Material | Aluminum |
| Pole Diameter | 9 millimeters |
| Canopy Fabric | Recycled, breathable 75-denier polyester and polyester mesh |
| Floor Fabric | Recycled 75-denier polyester with 1,500 mm waterproof polyurethane coating without intentionally added PFAS |
| Rainfly Fabric | Recycled 75-denier polyester with 1,500 mm waterproof polyurethane coating without intentionally added PFAS |
| Footprint Included | No |
| Design Structure | Freestanding |
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Glad we tested the set-up at home before first use as the crossbeam pole is confusing, very hard to locate the pole in the small slots and once in place the fly doesn't lay flat so doesn't give a satisfying erection. Materials are very thin but this is expected for a lightweight tent. Poles and pegs good quality and light. Roof loft is very handy for storage and putting a tent light in. Bit disappointed that it flapped in the wind on our first night but a few more pegs should sort that out next time. The zips are annoying as they constantly snag on the fabric making it a pain to get out. Lots of niggles but a reasonable 2 man tent for lightweight camping.
Dear REI Customer Service Team, I am writing to express my deep disappointment regarding a recent purchase made during the Member 20% Off promotion. I ordered a tent but upon receiving and inspecting the package, it was clear that I was sent a used or previously returned item. Specifically, I discovered several small holes in the tent’s outer carrying bag. Furthermore, when I opened the tent, there was loose filling—resembling insulation from a sleeping bag—scattered inside. As a loyal REI member, I believe the 20% discount should be a reward for membership, not a justification for selling used or defective "returned" products as new. This type of business practice is unacceptable and reflects poorly on REI’s reputation and commitment to quality. I have an upcoming camping trip to Havasupai for which I urgently need a reliable tent. Because I trust the brand's design, I have placed a new order for the exact same tent. However, I want to emphasize that I expect a brand-new, factory-sealed product. I will not accept any item that shows signs of prior use or has been previously returned. I hope that REI will take this matter seriously and ensure that my replacement order meets the high standards your company is known for. I regarding a guarantee of quality for my new order.
I bought this to do some backcountry elk hunting in oregon. I am not planning to get more then 8 miles back so the weight is really not a concern to me even though its really not that heavy. Its definitely bigger then I expected as I have purchased cheaper 2-person tents in the past that your head was smooshed into the wall of the tent. Bottom of the tent is a little thin so I do suggest running a tyvek type ground cover underneath of it if you are running any type of sleeping pad. For the price it will hunt and sleep fantastic!
The tent is fairly light-weight, good looking, and easy to assemble-disassemble but after a few tries. It would be great to have detailed video instructions on how to assemble it or pack it properly. I also noticed some defects in the material of the inner-tent when I was setting it up for the first time (photo attached). I like the tent overall but I really worry if the materials are strong enough. I also agree with the comment about the tent's sack - it would be great if it would be a bit wider and made of tougher material.
Honestly can't say I've had any of the issues other people mentioned. I've slept in the tent a few times now, including inclement weather. Once in the winter when it hit 17F and recently during during storms with driving rain. The winter I picked up frost on the inside of the fly with the vents open, would vent doors next time. During the down pour the fly wet out but the inside stayed dry. Nothing flapped in the wind or leaked water. The stakes supplied are plenty. I might spring for nicer stakes, but can't complain at the price point. Much more room than my Quarter dome. Not sure how you make it easier to set up? Match the colors insert the poles clip the clips - put the peak pole on top of the cross poles stakes in the loops. I'll be in touch to see if I can get the bike pack poles for it.
Not the lightest tent, but a great mid-range tent that has good durability. I wanted something that wouldn't break the bank, and would hold up, but also be light enough to take backpacking. This fits the bill. Stood up really well in rain and wind.
I wore out one of these. Using it for solo car camping and short back packs to base camps. No heavier than any 4 season tent and quite warm with the high solid nylon walls. Mine was a little compact inside but fine solo. I had a couple who lived in one for a week. He was tall and she was petite. I like the basic stand alone pole system of a dome tent. The fly can be tied to maximize airflow and ventilation. I did buy a Tiger Wall, but I live where I can get "factory" deals and I'll lighten my pack any chance I get, but I was ready to get another one of these and the vestibule!
Needed a simple 2 person tent for me and all of my stuff to live outside and while running summer trips in New Mexico. I picked this up after some research and I could not be happier. The inside of the tent is plenty spacious for two people or one person plus gear, it's simple to set up (I pitched it for the first time by headlamp in a late-night storm with no problems), and I especially appreciate the super reflective parts on the outside of the tent when I'm trying to find it in the woods at night. Everything on the tent is high quality and well-considered, and the inside layout of pockets, zippers, etc. has clearly been designed with the user in mind. Pick this up if you want a high-quality basic car-camping tent.
This is a nice little tent. Easy to set up, cool built-in ceiling pockets, spacious doors. Not the lightest tent out there, but gets the job done!
Tent survived a 70mph wind storm in Colorado, really like the layout and interior layout and pouches. Great tent!


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