What are the best lightweight 2 person tent for backpacking and hiking? In this article, I will give you an in-depth answer to that question. I will provide a list with the best lightweight 2 person tents and an in-depth explanation about what’s important for a backpacking tent.
Best lightweight 2 person backpacking tents
This list of the best lightweight 2 person backpacking tents was created after doing hours and hours of research. During this research, I mainly focused on weight, durability, comfort, price, ventilation and waterproofness. If you want to learn more about what’s important in a backpacking tent, make sure to stick around, I will give a complete explanation at the end of this article!
MIER Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent
Price: $$ | Weight: 2.4 lb (1.1 kg)
The mier Ultralight 3-Season backpacking tent is currently my favourite lightweight, budget-friendly tent on the market. Note that this is a trekking pole tent, which means that you can use trekking poles instead of tent poles. This means you don’t have to carry the additional weight of trekking poles.
This tent is a lightweight 2 person backpacking tent. However, it’s also available in a 1 person version and a 3 person version, in case you are interested in that.
The 2 person version of this tent weighs 2.4 lb (1.1 kg) – minimum trail weight – and packs down to 16.9*5.5 inch. This means that you will only carry 1.2 lb per person. For this price, that’s a pretty amazing deal.
The weight is not the only amazing thing about this tent, it’s also completely waterproof, practical (easy to set up) and can hold its own in a storm.
One of the only downsides is that this tent does not come with a footprint of its own. However, this isn’t really a big deal because you can buy that separately. Another inconvenience – for some backpackers – is the limited head room. However, this depends on your personal preferences – I don’t have any issues with the headroom myself.
This tent does alright when it comes to condensation, but it gets beaten by some of the more expensive lightweight tents on this list. When the ventilation is minimized (in storm conditions) some condensation will be found on the inside of the tent in the morning. However, almost all other tents within the same price range will have a similar issue.
For more practical information, I would recommend you take a look at this video. Note that this Mier 3-season 2-person tent is also known under the name 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2 on the Chinese market.
If you are looking for a lightweight, budget-friendly 2 person hiking tent, this would be the first tent I would recommend!
If you are interested in buying this tent, it can be found on amazon: MIER Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Price: $$$$ | Weight: 3.6 lb (1.6 kg)
The next option would be the MSR Hubba Hubba, another lightweight 2 person backpacking tent. There are plenty of differences between this tent and the Mier Ultralight tent.
The first difference is that this tent does not use trekking poles, but comes with a freestanding unified hub-and-poles system. This indirectly results in a lot more head and shoulder space. This tent is definitely one of the most – if not the most – comfortable options on this list. Additionally, it’s very easy to set up and the ventilation system is top-notch. Therefore, condensation is not really a problem with this tent.
This 2 person backpacking tent is definitely made for the most extreme conditions. It packs down to 18×6 inches.
Sadly, a footprint is also not included in this tent. Once again, this isn’t a big deal because you can buy it separately. However, this tent is already pretty expensive in comparison to the other options on this list.
That said, this tent is considered a high-quality tent, it’s in another category than the other options. Within the category, this tent is actually rather “affordable”.
Oh, one last thing, this tent comes with a 2 year warranty!
For a complete review, you can take a look at the following video:
If you are looking for a freestanding, high-quality 2 person backpacking tent, the Hubba Hubba is your best bet!
If you are interested in this product, feel free to check it out on amazon: MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent.
ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 2-Person Tent
Price: $$ | Weight: 5.25 lb (2.4 kg)
The Alps Mountaineering Lynx 2-perons tent is a more budget-friendly option for a freestanding tent. However, this tent is quite a bit heavier as well. I might even go as far as saying that this tent is the budget version of the MSR Hubba Hubba.
It’s slightly heavier than the recommended weight for a lightweight backpacking tent. This tent comes down to 2.6 lb per person, my recommendation for regular hikers is to aim for 2.2 lb per person.
Let’s take a look at the main features:
- Free-standing two-pole design with aluminum poles
- Easy assembly with pole clips that quickly snap over the tent poles
- Polyester fly with 1500mm coating resists UV damage and stays taut
- Poly taffeta floor with 2000mm coating
- Two doors and two vestibules
- Mesh storage pockets, gear loft, aluminum stakes, and guy ropes included
- Easy entry and great ventilation
- Half mesh walls increase ventilation
The best price can be found on amazon: Alps Mountaineering 2-person tent.
For those of you who care, this tent is also available in a 1 person version.
This tent is covered by a limited lifetime warranty and it comes with a footprint. Note that if your tent gets damaged during use, they will not provide a refund or a free repair.
For more information, check out this review of the ALPS mountaineering Lynx tents (1 person and 2 person tents):
This tent is a great choice for hikers or backpackers that are looking for a cheap and lightweight freestanding 2 person tent.
You can check out the latest price on amazon: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 2-Person Tent.
Featherstone Outdoor Backpacking 2 Person Tent
Price: $$ | Weight: 5 lb (2.27 kg)
This Featherstone Outdoor 2 person backpacking tent is another 3 season budget-friendly alternative.
The main focus of the manufacturer was durability, breathability and lightweight. Which is exactly the type of tent we are looking for. The fact that it also comes with a pretty affordable price tag is a nice little extra!
This tent weighs slightly less than the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 2-Person Tent, but it’s pretty close. These 2 tents are similar in weight, price ,quality and they are both freestanding tents. The featherstone has a slight edge on price and weight, but the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx tent does seem to hold up slightly better in a storm.
A nice bonus, this tent is Backed with a limited lifetime manufacturing warranty and from a U.S. company that cares. Also, a footprint is already included! Which is pretty sweet for that price.
I will include a quick video review so you have a better understanding of how this tent looks and what features it has:
Just like the ALPS Mountaineering tent, this tent is a great choice for hikers or backpackers that are looking for a cheap and lightweight freestanding 2 person tent. This one is slightly cheaper and a bit lighter, but the ALPS Mounatineering tent seems to hold up slightly better in a storm – or very bad weather in general.
As always, this tent can be found on amazon: Featherstone Outdoor Backpacking 2 Person Tent
Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent
Price: $$ | Weight: 2.9 lb (1.3 kg)
Let me start by saying that this tent blew my mind. I hadn’t heard of Naturehike Cloud-Up before I started with hours and hours of research. I did not expect to find a tent that is this cheap and lightweight suited for 4-seasons. That’s right, this tent can even be used in winter.
The combination of price and weight made me believe there had to be a catch. Turns out, there is no catch. This is simply an amazing tent. It comes in at 2.9 lb minimal trail weight (including inner tent). Which means you will only have to carry 1.45 lb per person. This is truly amazing if you keep in mind that this is a 4-season, free-standing tent.
Additionally, this tent comes with a footprint included and lifetime guarantee…
We stand behind our products for lifetime. If you are not completely satisfied with Naturehike Backpacking Tent for any reason, simply write us & receive a full refund. If you need any accessory replacement, also simply write to us for a resend
It packs down to: 15.7(L) x 5.1(W) x 5.1(H) inches.
For those of you who are looking for some more information:
The Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is the perfect option for cold weather camping on a budget. If you are looking for a 4 season 2 person lightweight tent, this is definitely the best option out there!
This tent can be bought from amazon: Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent.
ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent
Price: $$ | Weight: 4.7 lb (2.13 kg)
Another budget-friendly lightweight 2 person backpacking tent from Alps Mountaineering.
Let’s take a look at the main features:
- Free-standing two-pole design with aluminum poles
- Easy assembly with pole clips that quickly snap over the tent poles
- Polyester fly with 1500mm coating resists UV damage and stays taut
- Factory-sealed fly and floor seams provide best weather protection
- Poly taffeta floor with 3000mm coating
- Two doors and two vestibules
- Great ventilation with entire mesh walls
- Weatherproof fly buckles on for maximum adjustability and protection
- Mesh storage pockets, gear loft, aluminum stakes, and guy ropes included
The best price can be found on amazon.
As you can see, this tent is very similar to the Lynx tent. It really comes down to personal preference here. Both tents are lightweight, high-quality, budget-friendly and they have very similar features.
I will include a video for a quick overview:
You can check out the latest price on amazon: ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent.
River Country Products Trekker Tent 2.2
Price: $ | Weight: 3 lb (1.36 kg)
The River Country Trekker Tent 2 is an amazing bang for the buck. This is the cheapest tent on the list, and guess what, it doesn’t suck!
This tent does not use tent poles. You will have to use your trekking poles as tent poles. I also mentioned this tent in one of my other articles: The best trekking pole tents.
I realize this tent looks like it won’t hold in heavy winds, but it’s actually a lot more stormproof than it looks.
There is an even lighter version of this tent, this comes in at 2.75 lb (1.25 kg). This is the River Country Trekker tent 2 (not 2.2). However, I would recommend the heavier version because this version has a lot less condensation issues.
Considering the price, this tent is truly amazing. However, I would still recommend the “MIER Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent” over this tent, as long as you can afford it.
Here is a quick overview/review:
This is the best option for backpackers who are looking for a lightweight option when on a very tight budget.
If you are interested in the latest price, this can be found on amazon: River Country Products Trekker Tent 2.2
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Backpacking Tent
Price: $$$$ | Weight: 2.75 lb (1.25 kg)
This Big Agnes is king when it comes to lightweight and comfort. Especially the weight/space ratio is pretty impressive.
The main negative about this tent is that it’s a pretty expensive tent. For this price, one would expect that this tent would hold up very well in a storm. Sadly, multiple hikers have confirmed that this tent doesn’t perform too well in a storm. Especially the tent poles are not very sturdy.
The good thing is that Big Agnes will replace/repair your tent when it comes down to manufacturer or material defects. Big Agnes is a respectable brand within the industry. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this lightweight 2 person backpacking tent comes with a trustworthy warranty
All Big Agnes products are guaranteed against manufacturing or material defect; If replacement product is not available credit will be given for the original purchase price when returned with a receipt
A full explanation about what is and isn’t covered can be found here: Big Agnes warranty: what’s covered.
For a quick video overview:
It’s an awesome tent if you are looking for a lightweight and comfortable option. As long as you are not on a tight budget and you are not planning on encountering heavy storms.
As usual, this tent can be bought from amazon: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Backpacking Tent
What’s important for a backpacking tent
Weight
Obviously weight is very important. Since you are reading an article titled “Best lightweight 2 person tents for backpacking & hiking” it shouldn’t be a surprise that I’m mentioning weight.
So how much should your backpack weigh? The simple answer is: the lighter the better! However, a more in-depth answer can be found here: What is a good weight for a backpacking tent?.
A short summarization of that article: There are 3 different type of hikers:
- Low intensity hiker/backpacker
- Regular hiker
- Extreme/Ultralight hiker
For the low intensity hiker or a backpacker weight is still important, but not as important. I would say that as long as you don’t go over 4 lb (1.8 kg) per person, you should be good.
For the regular hiker, I would recommend a backpacking tent weight of 2.2 lb (1 kg) per person.This seems a good balance between not having to carry too much weight and not having to spending too much money.
For the ultralight hiker it really is as simple as the lighter the better…
Durability
As with most hiking products, durability is very important. A lightweight 2 person hiking tent is no different.
The last thing you want is your backpacking tent to break in the middle of your journey. Not only would it be very inconvenient, it might be straight up dangerous on a long distance hiking trip.
Another reason why durability is important is that a durable product will be more budget-friendly in the long run. If you don’t buy a durable tent, you might end up buying a new one after every or every couple of trips. In the long run, this is will be very expensive, even if the tents you buy are pretty cheap.
It’s an obvious factor, but a very important one nevertheless. Make sure to do proper research – or let me do the research and go with one of my recommendations.
Price
Another obvious factor would be price. Cheaper gear means more money for actual backpacking, needless to say I like budget-friendly products.
However, as I explained before, if you buy cheap products that are not very durable your purchases might be less budget-friendly than you would think.
Quite often you will pay a lot of additional money for some minor advantages. If you are not on a tight budget, these minor advantages might be worth it. However, if you are on a tight budget you should be shopping in a different price range. For my recommendations I tried to provide solid options for every type of budget.
Ventilation/Condensation
Ventilation is super important because bad ventilation leads to condensation issues. A little bit of condensation does not have to be the worst thing in the world, but a lot of condensation can be a serious problem.
Most completely waterproof tents have a lot less ventilation when they are in “storm mode”. In this mode, there is less ventilation in order to prevent water from seeping in. It’s important to check how big de condensation issue gets when tents are in “storm mode”.
The easiest way to find out whether or not a tent has a good ventilation system is to check reviews. Try to look for the reviews that mention condensation problems, especially those who have tested their tent in a storm.
There are a couple of things you can do to prevent condensation. However, the biggest factor will be the ventilation system of your tent.
Warranty/repair options
Another very important factor is a warranty and/or repair options. I consider all the options on this list to be pretty high quality in comparison with their price. That said, even high-quality tents can get damaged in terrible weather conditions.
Note, that most warranties do not apply for damage that is caused during use. So if your tent gets damaged during a storm, you will probably not get a free refund. The warranty is -most of the time- meant for manufacturer mistake that could lead to problems.
If your tent gets damaged during use, you might not be able to get a free refund or a free replacement part. However, the option of buying replacement parts separately – or the option of using a repair service – is very important. You do not want to buy a completely new tent if one part of your tent gets damaged. Most tents are always fixable one way or the other.
However, sometimes, tents have very specific components. It might happen that you need a specific tent pole for a certain tent and it is not possible to buy this tent pole separately. This means your tent is basically useless if you break a tent pole… and that’s a real shame.
Make sure to do your research before buying a brand new backpacking tent!
Space/comfort
Space and comfort are also pretty important. For more extreme hikers or for ultralight hikers, this won’t be the most important factor. Often, the tent is only used for sleeping. Pitch late in the evening and pack up early in the morning. Lack of head space isn’t really an issue if you don’t do anything else than sleeping.
However, for most regular backpackers this is pretty important. Especially being able to sit up in a tent can be a big deal when it comes to comfort.
Space is important for multiple reasons, not only do you need plenty space for sleeping, there should also be room for your gear/backpack. Make sure that you have a vestibule (or enough room inside the tent) where you can place your backpack/gear.
Waterproofness
Another obvious factor is waterproofness. I don’t think I have to explain why this is important.
How can we check whether or not a tent is actually completely waterproof? Simple, check multiple tests. There are plenty of blogpost and youtube videos about tent waterproofness tests.
A common test is to use a garden hose on the tent for multiple minutes & from multiple angles. This is already a good indication. However, it’s even better to combine this with actual usage tests. Make sure to find reviews of backpackers who have tested this particular tent in a storm.
Additionally, you should be careful for tents that are low in durability. They might be completely waterproof on day one, but after a couple of backpacking trips they might start to give in. Once again, look for reviews from hikers who have been using this tent for a couple of years.
Even high quality tents are powerless against the test of time. Eventually, your waterproof will become a… not so waterproof tent. The good thing is, there are a couple of things you can do to ensure that your tent remains waterproof: Seam sealing, repair coating and apply DWR. For an full explanation, you can look at the following video:
Should you use a 2 person tent for a solo trip?
So, should you use a 2 person backpacking tent on a solo trip? Probably not… However, there are certain situations where it’s okay to bring a lightweight 2 person tent.
The first reason why you might be tempted to bring a 2 person tent is that you don’t want to spend money on a solo tent. Especially if you are not planning on making a lot of solo trips, it would not be the smartest investment in the world.
As long as you won’t be doing very heavy hiking or climbing the additional weight is probably not going to be the biggest issue in the world, especially on shorter backpacking trips.
Another benefit would be that you have more room inside the tent. This isn’t the biggest argument in the world, but it’s a nice little bonus.
In the end, it comes down to, are you okay with the additional weight of a 2 person tent? Before answering that question you should probably think about the following things:
- How many miles will you be hiking?
- How many elevation gain?
- Is it difficult terrain?
If you are going on a short and easy trip it’s completely fine to bring that 2 person backpacking tent. If not, you might want to consider making the investment and buy a lightweight 1 person hiking tent.
Why are these recommendations so cheap?
I have done a lot of research in the last couple days in order to create this article. There was one thing that was very striking: almost all other website recommend only the expensive tents. Or at least most of their recommendations are expensive.
So, I did even more research in order to find out whether or not these are actually worth the money. More often than not, this was definitely not the case. Especially if you are on a tight budget, you absolutely do not need an expensive tent. Don’t get me wrong, some of these expensive tents are pretty amazing. However, when on a budget, the additional cost is simply not worth it.
Why then, are all these websites recommending expensive tents? The answer is pretty simple, if they sell you an expensive tent, they will earn more money. This is one of the dangers of the internet today. This is why you should always do proper research yourself, before buying a product online. Don’t just trust anybody who writes a review online.
After my research, I found out that there are plenty of awesome budget-friendly options. I would personally never buy a $1000 tent, so I’m also not going to recommend this to you guys either.
Conclusion
If you are looking for the best lightweight 2 person backpacking tent you should think about the following factors:
- weight
- durability
- comfort
- price
- ventilation
- waterproofness
- Warranty
- Repair options
All of the hiking tents on this list are hand-picked based on these qualities.
My personal favourite of this list is the first one, the MIER Ultralight Tent 3-Season Backpacking Tent.
A lightweight 2 person tent does not have to be very expensive. Most of my recommendation are around $100-$150.