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The Best Backpacking Tents for Thru-Hiking in 2025
Choosing a tent for your thru-hike is a big deal, but it’s also probably the least stressful home-buying experience you’ll have in your lifetime. Enjoy it. The best backpacking tents strike a balance between weight, cost, durability, livable space, ease of pitch, and stability.
Your tent should also be stable in snow, breathable in areas of high humidity, and waterproof. You should be able to comfortably keep your sleeping bag away from tent walls to prevent dampness, and also get in and out easily, sit up comfortably, and have enough space (if hiking with a partner) where you don’t feel like you’re whacking them every time you move or put on a layer.
One note before we dig in: In the interest of consistency, all listed weights below represent the minimum trail weight, which includes the tent itself, rain fly (if applicable), and poles (if applicable). It does NOT include the weight of stakes, stuff sacks, or a footprint.
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Best Backpacking Tents:
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- Zpacks Duplex (Best All-Around)
- Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2 (Best Semi-Freestanding)
- Gossamer Gear The One (Best Blend of Weight, Cost, and Function)
- Durston X-Mid 1P/2P (AT Hikers’ Favorite Tent)
- Zpacks Free Zip (Lightest Freestanding Tent)
- Zpacks Plex Solo (Lightest Tent Overall)
- 3F UL Lanshan 1 Pro (Best Budget Ultralight Tent)
- MSR Hubba Hubba 2 (Best for Rough Weather)
- Nemo Hornet Osmo 2 (Smallest Two-Person Footprint)
- Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo (Best One-Pole Setup)
- Tarptent ProTrail Li (Roomiest Vestibule)
- Lightheart Gear Solong (Best Tent for Tall People)
Best Backpacking Tents for Thru-Hiking FAQs:
How to Choose a Tent for Backpacking Podcast
Best Backpacking Tents of 2025
Zpacks Duplex (All-Around Best Backpacking Tent)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Duplex.
Category: Trekking-pole tent
Interior space: 28 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
“For years the Zpacks Duplex has maintained its status as one of the most popular and well-liked tents of thru-hikers — and for good reason. It stands as one of the lightest and most durable two-person trekking pole shelters available, perfectly suited for an entire summer on the trail. Single-wall DCF construction keeps the weight low without sacrificing strength or longevity, providing fully waterproof protection and a rugged bathtub floor that does not require a groundsheet.
“And despite the low weight, the Duplex is spacious enough to comfortably fit two hikers in the fully enclosed bug mesh while protecting their gear in the two vestibules. The Duplex provides full-sided protection when the weather gets nasty, and opens up on both sides for views and ventilation when the skies are clear. There will be plenty of both on a thru-hike, and the perennially awesome Duplex handles it all without weighing you down.” — Owen Eigenbrot
And it’s worth adding that the Duplex faces stiffer competition than ever before. There are a few marginally different and excellent tents that are arguably better, depending on your priorities and needs. That said, the Duplex will be an all-around winner for most backpackers.
Zpacks has also cultivated a comprehensive ecosystem of Duplex spinoffs that should satisfy almost anyone with the cash to burn. Other versions include the Duplex Zip, Plex Solo, Triplex, and Triplex Zip. There’s also a pole kit that turns the Duplex into a storm-surfing freestanding tent.
The new 15 oz Duplex Lite deserves a special callout. It’s just 45 inches wide, which is pushing it for two people, but many Duplex users are solitary thru-hikers who just want a little more space. The Lite version would be a perfect choice for that crowd.
Read our review of the Duplex Lite.
Features
- Mesh pockets: Two mesh interior pockets are located near each screen door and can be accessed from outside the tent as well.
- 8-inch bathtub floor: The tall bathtub floor keeps rain out even in the soggiest campsites
- All-in-one construction and fast pitch: Tent body and fly are one unit, with a fast (and dry) pitch using two trekking poles. Once you’ve pitched this a few times, it’s easy to get it taut.
- 48-inch peak height: Very few people will be too tall to sit up in here.
- Rugged DCF construction: Naturally waterproof materials and taped seams mean no DWR finish or after-market seam sealing is needed.
Nobody’s Perfect
“The major criticisms of the Duplex are shared across all ultralight trekking pole shelters. As with most of these, the Duplex takes some getting used to. One must find a balance between trekking poles and guy lines, which can be challenging and changes every night … On some terrain, finding a large enough flat spot that accepts stakes can be a chore. Condensation is also a chronic issue on nights when the storm doors are closed, and the A-frame walls make it impossible to avoid brushing against this moisture. The price tag is hefty, albeit fair.” — Owen Eigenbrot
“The Duplex also requires eight stakes to get adequate tension. “The large, square panel moves too much to actually use in any wind without (the extra two stakes). This large square panel is one of the major downsides of this tent.” — GPS
Best All-Around Tent Honorable Mentions:
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 (Best Semi-Freestanding Tent)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Big Agnes Tiger Wall
Category: Semi-freestanding
Interior space: 28 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
This tent combines the best features of the Fly Creek and the Copper Spur. The Tiger Wall is a similar size to the Fly Creek, but the horizontal spreader bar allows for additional shoulder room, plus two doors and two vestibules, which make it easier to share. It’s seven ounces lighter than the Copper Spur (and cheaper, too) but has more shoulder space than the Fly Creek.
Since 2021, Big Agnes has manufactured the Tiger Wall with high-quality solution-dyed fabric that is resistant to UV fade and conserves water and energy during manufacture. It’s not the lightest semi-freestanding tent on the market — that honor belongs to the Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo at just 27 ounces — but it’s relatively affordable and provides a little more living space.
“To me, the Fly Creek was already one of the best backpacking tents out there, and the Tiger Wall solves all the issues I had with that tent (more headroom, convenient side doors) while retaining the durability, compactness, and ease of use — all with a relatively minimal weight penalty.” — Kelly Floro
Find the Tiger Wall Platinum here, Tiger Wall UL 1 here, and Tiger Wall UL 3 here.
Features
- Structured corners: This means the bathtub floor has a few extra inches of vertical structure in the corners, which can give you more space to keep your sleeping bag and feet away from the tent walls
- Dry-door entry: A few inches of space extending over the door means the interior of the tent can stay drier during setup and exits during rainy nights.
- Interior pockets: A large ceiling pocket can hold a headlamp for some *~*ambient lighting*~* and media pockets along the side are perfect for stashing small items.
- Color-coded buckles: Sure, you can still mess up clipping the fly to the tent body, but it’s harder to do with the color-coded buckles.
Nobody’s Perfect
The vestibules can be hard to crawl in and out of, and the rain fly can get snagged on the zipper. It is a tad smaller than the Copper Spur with less foot room, but again, it comes in seven ounces lighter. Like all freestanding tents, it’s a body-first pitch, which means your tent interior will be exposed to rain when pitching until you can set up the fly. The Platinum version of the Tiger Wall is lighter, but the price tags are traumatic. Pick your poison.
Watch our video review of the Tiger Wall here.
Best Ultralight Freestanding Tent Honorable Mentions:
Gossamer Gear The One (Best Blend of Weight, Cost, and Function)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Gossamer Gear The One
Weight: 17.7 ounces
Interior space: 16 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The One is a solo-hiker fave that tops ultralight gear roundups across the board —including our annual AT thru-hiker survey, where it frequently takes home the title for the most popular one-person tent. It’s lightweight, spacious, and affordable — even more so after Gossamer Gear recently reduced the price.
The setup is relatively simple for a trekking pole shelter, and the venting design helps prevent some of the condensation issues that arise with single-wall shelters. The top bar is wide enough to provide ample shoulder room, something that can feel lacking in solo shelters. This is a one-piece shelter that sets up with a minimum of six stakes and two trekking poles.
While we believe that there are other tents potentially more deserving of a “Best One-Person Ultralight Tent” award, the low weight and bargain price are a combination that is too good to ignore. The One makes some significant compromises, but if you want an affordable ultralight option with room to spare, it might be the one for you.
Features
- Side-wall tie-outs: If you want to put in the extra effort to guy out the side walls for more tension (recommended), the option is there.
- Easy side-entry: Both doors open for max airflow.
- Quick pitch: All trekking pole shelters (OK, all shelters in general) take some practice to get right, but this is one of the less finicky trekking pole options to pitch.
Nobody’s Perfect
Some of our taller users had trouble keeping their feet away from the walls of the tent. Additionally, several participants in our annual Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey have said The One had a tendency to leak (and presumably also sag, since it’s silnylon) in the rain. And The One’s square-panel design will not perform as well in wind as tents with triangular panels.
Check out our reviews of Gossamer Gear’s The Two, The DCF One, and The DCF Two.
Best Blend of Weight, Cost, and Function Honorable Mention:
Durston X-Mid 1 and X-Mid 2 (AT Hikers’ Favorite)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Durston X-Mid
Category: Trekking pole tent
Interior space: 20 square feet 1P | 33.2 square feet 2P
Why We Love This Tent
The X-Mid was among the top tents in our annual thru-hiking survey last year, and its popularity has only continued to grow (stay tuned for the tent data from the 2024 survey). This shelter has developed a devoted following since its days as the always-sold-out tent of mythical status. It’s easy to see why.
Both the X-Mid 1 and X-Mid 2 are reasonably lightweight, simple to pitch, and have plenty of space, including two doors and vestibules — a luxurious touch for a one-person shelter. And when we say plenty of space, we mean it. The X-Mid lineup should be a top choice for any individual or pair who value living space highly. These things are huge inside.
A laundry list of well-thought-out details makes these tents exceptional in rough weather: factory-taped seams, polyester fabric that doesn’t sag or absorb water, steep roof panels that shed snow easily, a double-wall design and large mesh storm vents that minimize condensation impacts, and the fly sets up first to keep the tent interior dry.
Designer Dan Durston, who is perhaps the ultimate backpacking gear wonk, has thought through every aspect of the design, and you can read a thorough explanation of his thought process over on his site. And on top of it all, it’s among the cheapest tents on this list (especially considering the fact that the X-Mid comes with eight stakes and factory-taped seams).
While the X-Mid’s super-low price gets undercut by some ultra-cheap outliers, we firmly believe that you cannot find a better bang for your buck anywhere else in the universe. Heck, they ain’t the lightest tents, but if you’re willing to carry the extra weight of an X-Mid, it’s the best, or nearly the best tent, across the board.
Oh wait, Durston also makes DCF versions of both X-Mids, the X-Mid Pro 1 and X-Mid Pro 2, for those afflicted with ultralight madness. Like Zpacks, Durston offers a tent for nearly every need and budget, and all of them rank near the top of their category. If you’re in the market for a trekking pole shelter, then one version of the X-Mid or another should be near the top of your list.
Features
- Polyester-based design: In a market dominated by silnylon and Dyneema, Durston made the semi-unusual choice to opt for silicone-coated polyester (silpoly). Why? It’s cheaper than Dyneema, and it won’t sag or absorb water like nylon. It’s also more UV-resistant than nylon. For reference, Six Moon Designs also uses silpoly in the Lunar Solo, and more tent manufacturers are expected to make the switch in coming years as its benefits become more widely recognized.
- Fly pitches first: … and gets taken down last. That means the interior of the tent will stay dry and cozy in rainy weather.
- Double-wall: For hikers who want the weight savings and simplicity of a trekking pole setup with the ventilation advantages of a double-wall, the X-Mid is one of just a handful of options. Large mesh vents further enhance airflow. Allows fly-only pitch.
- Dual side doors and vestibules: Thanks to the X-Mid’s eponymous X-shaped layout, where the tent floor is oriented diagonally to that of the fly, even the single-wall version offers ample vestibules and doors on both sides.
- Double-sewn seams: Increase the tent’s durability and speak to the overall quality and attention to detail of this design. The X-Mid is also designed to minimize the total number of seams, which improves waterproofness, durability, and weight efficiency.
Nobody’s Perfect
The major criticisms of the X-Mid are that it’s complicated to set up and that it has a pretty large footprint. You need 46.5 square feet under the fly for the X-Mid 1, which can make campsite selection challenging. It is also less accommodating of uneven ground than some other trekking pole tents, which can again limit suitable campsite availability.
Check out our interview with Dan Durston on Backpacker Radio.
Zpacks Free Zip 2 | Lightest Freestanding Tent
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Free Zip
Category: Freestanding
Interior space: 26.3 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The Free Zip is easily the lightest true freestanding tent on the market. Semi-freestanding models like the TarpTent Double Rainbow Li are even lighter, but they require stakes or in the Double Rainbow’s case, some fancy finagling of trekking poles) to set up properly. In contrast, you can pitch the Free Zip with zero stakes (though at least two for the vestibules are recommended).
Setup is fast and easy, and you’re guaranteed a perfect, taut pitch every time. For hikers who don’t use trekking poles or want to camp on bedrock, pavement, deep sand, or other surfaces that don’t play nice with stakes, it’s a no-brainer.
The Free Zip replaces the Free Duo. The design is very similar, but the pole architecture has been changed, and the new version features zippable storm doors instead of the old overlapping system. For what it’s worth, here’s what Owen had to say about the Free Duo (our review of the Free Zip is forthcoming):
“The Free Duo combines the best features of Zpacks’ DCF shelter line with the practicality of a traditional freestanding tent. It requires zero stakes to pitch (though two for the vestibules are recommended), which means it can go where trekking pole shelters can’t; bare rock, deep sand, tent platforms, a parking lot, or other stake-rejecting ground. The single-wall construction makes setup quick and easy — no fly sheet or footprint needed.
“… The waterproof DCF canopy pitches taut every time, which reduces wind noise and increases living space. Two vestibules provide ample storage for gear, and fully enclosed mesh keeps out the bugs even on nice nights when the storm doors are furled. Despite being both easy to use and supremely livable for two hikers, the Free Duo weighs in at under two pounds. Not only is it the lightest freestanding tent available, it’s also one of the best.” — Owen Eigenbrot
Features
- Heavy-duty Easton Carbon 6.3 poles: The unique double-X pole architecture provides a very stable frame, especially in high wind. For those who have used Zpacks’ Duplex Flex pole adapters in the past, the Free Zip poles are thicker and stronger. They fold down to 12 inches in length, aiding packability.
- Two rainbow doors: With no trekking poles in the way, the full-wall doors on either side of the tent make entry and exit easy no matter which side you’re on. Good for a quick getaway when nature calls.
- Vestibules: The vestibules are classic Zpacks with two storm doors on each side. Close them all up for warmth or rain protection, or open them up after eating beans for dinner to improve ventilation.
- Small footprint: With no stakes or guy lines, the Free Zip nestles well into smaller camp spots that might reject trekking pole shelters.
Nobody’s Perfect
The elephant in the room is the Free Zip’s eye-watering $900 price tag. The fact that this is the lightest freestanding tent on the market does set it apart, but does it deliver enough value to justify that cost for the average hiker? After all, though it might be lightest-in-class, it can’t compete with trekking pole tents in the weight department.
Another drawback is that with just 44 inches of interior width, this thing is awfully cramped for two people. If even one of you has a wide sleeping pad, it’s game over. Finally, the Free Zip is subject to the same condensation issues as all other single-wall tent designs.
Zpacks Plex Solo Lite (Lightest Fully Enclosed Tent)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Zpacks Plex Solo Lite
Interior space: 20.6 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
For solo hikers who are looking for the lightest shelter that offers full protection from bugs and weather, this single-pole DCF tent from Zpacks is the one. Not only is the DCF extremely lightweight, but it’s also durable enough for an entire thru-hike while keeping a lucky hiker well-protected in even the worst conditions. Furthermore, even though DCF is bulkier than other fabrics, the Plex Solo Lite is tiny when packed and easily carried in an external backpack pocket.
While it might seem crazy to sacrifice the living space of some larger tents that only weigh a few ounces more, the small footprint helps the Plex Solo fit in even the most restricted campsites, and the single-pole setup is refreshingly easy to handle alone.
The odd shape might look intimidating, but once we got the hang of it, Owen pitched his Plex Solo Classic in under five minutes. If you’ve ever set up a single-pole tent before, you won’t find anything dramatically different in this setup. “It set up as expected for a one-pole tent with relative ease,” said reviewer Kate of her Plex Solo Lite.
And speaking of living space, the Plex Solo Lite has plenty of it for one. The oddly shaped bathtub floor includes enough room for a wide sleeping pad and gear, and the vestibule easily protects whatever is too soggy for snuggling.
Last year we recommended the OG Plex Solo Classic; since then, we’ve had a chance to test the Lite version, which is almost 3 ounces lighter for the same dimensions and price.
Extreme ultralighters on the western trails might not need the included bug protection of the Plex Solo and so might choose a tarp or a floorless design like the Gossamer Gear DCF Whisper instead. But for anyone who doesn’t want to worry about questionable conditions, this tent has you covered. Easy setup, easy protection, every time.
If you are a taller hiker, the Zpacks Altaplex is essentially the same tent, but longer and taller.
Features
- DCF Construction: This isn’t a perfect material, but it offers a lot of benefits to hikers who can afford it. In addition to its remarkably low weight, DCF is super strong and doesn’t sag or absorb water when damp. This makes a taught pitch more achievable and drying easier.
- Single Door and Vestibule: With only one person to accommodate, the Plex Solo has just a single door and vestibule. This makes it more difficult to create a cross-breeze on warm nights, but the wide opening still allows ample access and mega views, provided it is oriented properly. Sunrise or sunset?
- Asymmetrical Shape: This tent is actually symmetric head to foot, but ignoring that, the footprint is a complex conglomeration of obtuse angles. However, it works. The off-center pole marks the border between the single vestibule and the floor.
Nobody’s Perfect
The complex geometry of the Plex Solo requires a ridiculous number of stakes to completely tension. Six stakes will get it standing, but you’ll find a place to use up to 10, if you even own that many. Use all those stakes and the tent will be bomb-proof, but that’s a lot of fiddling.
While the peak height is quite tall, the design inevitably limits useable space up high. This shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone looking at a single-pole shelter, but even though the Plex Solo offers plenty of space for one, it’s better utilized while lying down. Shoulder room is tight, so prepare to go crazy if a storm keeps you inside for 12 hours straight.
Finally, DCF single-wall tents all cost a lot and suffer from condensation issues. At $599, the Plex Solo Lite isn’t overpriced, it’s just a lot of money. Budget-conscious hikers can find a much cheaper tent, albeit heavier and less awesome.
Read our reviews of the Zpacks Plex Solo Lite and Plex Solo Classic.
Honorable Mention:
Zpacks Pivot Solo (highly recommended by James, review forthcoming)
3F UL Lanshan 1 Pro (Best Budget UL Tent)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: 3F UL Lanshan 1 Pro
Category: Trekking pole tent
Interior space: 24.7 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
At well under $200, the Lanshan 1 Pro is the most affordable tent on this list while remaining truly ultralight at 26 ounces for the tent, guyline, and stuff sack. The Lanshan is made of silylon with all guyout points reinforced by UHMWPE-gridstop.
Where this tent shines, besides the price, is in versatility. Most thru-hikers will be OK with the standard three-season version of this tent, but there’s also a four-season version of the Lanshan for winter adventurers. Likewise, taller hikers can upgrade to the plus-size version, and stargazers who don’t mind a little extra weight can opt for the double-wall Lanshan 1. Unlike many UL manufacturers, 3F UL ships all over the world, a boon for international hikers.
Features
- Single or double wall: The Lanshan Pro is lightest as a single-wall tent with a roof vent to reduce condensation. But if you prefer the ventilation and stargaze-ability of two walls, the Lanshan 1 is your best bet. You decide.
- Reinforced guyouts: All guyout points are reinforced with UHMWPE-gridstop to prevent tears.
- Fully integrated bathtub floor: The 4.3-inch-high bathtub floor is sewn to the main tent body with a band of no-see-um mesh.
Nobody’s Perfect
The Lanshan doesn’t come seam-sealed; you can do it yourself or pay $35 to have 3F UL do it. The tent body is also made of silnylon at a time when many manufacturers are switching to silpoly, which doesn’t sag and stretch when wet the way silnylon does. 3F UL is headquartered in China, which may be a downside for US consumers who aim to shop closer to home. Finally, the bathtub floor is only 4.3 inches high, which is … not much. For comparison, the Lunar Solo’s bathtub is six inches deep. You’ll be vulnerable to splashback in this shallow tent.
Best Budget UL Tent Honorable Mentions:
MSR Hubba Hubba LT 2 (Best Tent for Rough Weather)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: MSR Hubba Hubba
Category: Freestanding
Interior space: 32 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The newest iteration of the MSR Hubba Hubba is roomier by several square feet and comes in a cool new colorway. The Hubba Hubba’s weight has fluctuated over the years and innovations, but it’s been trending toward fewer ounces overall. The true (non-tapered) rectangular floor and 40 inches of headroom make this tent truly spacious.
The fly and tent body materials are heftier than other models of a similar size, but the tradeoff is increased durability and less chance of the fly getting caught in the zipper. The poles are thicker than lighter-weight tents, so you can be a little rougher with this tent. The fly pitch is taut, but what really sells us is the design for maximizing head, shoulder, and foot space as well as the burlier materials for durability.
Find the MSR Hubba Hubba LT 1 here.
Features
- Stable, durable poles: It will take a lot to make this tent collapse. Poles are Easton Syclone, which are ultra-rugged and can stand up to some serious wind. The poles reach all four corners of this true freestanding tent, which improves wind stability as well.
- Proprietary waterproofing: Nothing will prevent condensation in extreme conditions, but the DuraShield waterproofing and taped seams keep it dry from outside precipitation. The vestibule doors feature StayDry rain gutters to keep you and your gear dry, and kickstand vents maximize airflow.
- Livable space: Mentioned above, but the design — from head(space) to toe(space) has livability in mind.
Nobody’s Perfect
The tent does have a smart design, but it’s still 32 square feet of interior space for nearly three pounds, which is substantially more than other semi-freestanding tents on this list. You’re trading weight savings for durability. Depending on what type of hiker you are, this could be worth it. It’s also worth noting that the tent body has more solid (non-mesh) panels, which is great during storms but means fewer opportunities for stargazing on fair nights.
Read our review of the 2022 MSR Hubba Hubba 2 here.
Nemo Hornet Osmo 2 (Smallest Two-Person Tent Footprint)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Nemo Hornet Osmo
Category: Semi-freestanding
Interior space: 27.5 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The Hornet has a versatile footprint and can fit into tighter spaces than some of the broader pitches. This is technically a semi-freestanding tent (like the Tiger Wall) since the rear corners require staking. You’ll have to stake out the footbox for a full pitch. The design is overall similar to the BA Tiger Wall, but the Hornet uses special proprietary fabrics and shaves a couple of ounces thanks to its cut-out fly design.
NEMO maximizes headroom with their proprietary “Flybar” pole clip, which takes the place of the spreader bars of other tents. This helps keep the angle of the tent walls away from the shoulders, allowing for more sitting room and space to change without touching the sides of the tent.
The Hornet was updated in 2023 with Nemo’s proprietary Osmo fabric, a ripstop nylon and polyester composite that’s purported to be more water-resistant and less likely to sag when wet. Unlike many waterproof materials, Osmo contains no harmful PFOAs (sometimes called forever chemicals because of how slow they are to break down).
If you really want to save weight, the Nemo Hornet Elite Osmo weighs a mere 27 ounces, costs $650, and has the same interior space. Remarkably, that makes it the lightest semi-freestanding tent on the market, and all without a scrap of DCF in sight.
Features
- Osmo fabric: Nemo claims it’s more water-repellent and less likely to sag when wet than prior versions of the tent.
- Single-hubbed pole system: Easy setup and pitch, lightweight poles are just one piece and have three anchor points—two at the head, one at the foot.
- Flybar pole clip: Instead of a horizontal spreader bar, this tent comes with an extended pole clip to add headroom.
- Two side-entry doors: Can be considered a must-have for two-person tents.
Nobody’s Perfect
“This is one of the smaller two-person semi-freestanding tents on this list. The Hornet is lightweight and stable, but it does have less interior and vestibule space than the comparable BA Tiger Wall (which many users already consider cramped) and will feel tight with two people after extended use.” — Maggie Slepian
Some users also complain that the cut-out fly leaves the head and foot ends of the tent vulnerable to backsplash during heavy rain.
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo (Best One-Pole Setup)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
Interior space: 26 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
“$260 is cheap for a backpacking tent. And yet the quality of the Lunar Solo feels anything but. This tent is optimized for maximum ventilation: plenty of mesh throughout the structure and a gap between the fly and the ground promotes airflow.
“It only requires one trekking pole to set up and has a generous 49 inches of headroom at the peak. The steeply angled pitch of this tent helps it to shed snow effectively, making it feel surprisingly stable for a structure that’s only propped up by one pole.
SMD updated the design from silnylon to less saggy silpoly in 2019. Another update at the end of 2023 added corner cord guyouts for easier tension adjustment.” — Kelly Floro
Features
- Center pole pitch: This increases the stability of the tent in high winds and allows it to shed water more easily
- (Almost) entirely mesh side wall: Ounce-saving mesh increases breathability from the bathtub floor to the peak (an additional 360˚ mesh strip just above the bathtub adds to the tent’s breezy appeal.
- 6-inch floating bathtub floor: 40D silicone-coated polyester and the tent’s floating floor design maximize puncture resistance
- Internal mesh storage pocket: You know the drill. Organize your small items for easy nighttime access.
Nobody’s Perfect
The steep walls of this shelter and single-pole setup mean less shoulder room and more wind resistance. Users will need to seal the seams themselves or pay $35 for Six Moon Designs to seal the tent for $35 before shipping if you don’t want to do it yourself. Stakes aren’t included, so if you don’t have some already, you’ll need to factor that into the purchase price as well.
The Lunar Solo has been a backpacking staple for many years now, with the design staying more or less the same since about 2012. On the one hand, I appreciate that Six Moons isn’t innovating its flagship products to death — why fix what ain’t broke? On the other hand, in an ultralight market that has seen substantial innovations in both design and materials in recent years, the Lunar Solo risks being left behind.
Read our review of the Lunar Solo here.
TarpTent ProTrail (Roomiest Vestibule)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: TarpTent ProTrail
Category: Trekking pole tent
Interior space: 21 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The traditional and ever-popular silpoly ProTrail got a DCF update in 2020, but we already have a lot of $500+ tents on this list. The standard version is still darn light at a mere 22 ounces, but just know that a 16-oz DCF version does exist if you have money to burn.
This A-frame shelter has a front entrance and a generous overhang to prevent items in the gargantuan vestibule from getting wet. This is a single-piece shelter with an integrated fly and tent body, making a fast pitch once you get the hang of it. It has a 45-inch peak height at the front of the tent, with a steep pitch on the sides and down toward the back.
You will need two trekking poles for this setup, with the tallest one at the front entry, and just four stakes. We recommend pitching the front pole at an angle to make entry/exit easier. It has a ring of 360-degree mesh and a rear mesh window for increased airflow and views. The rugged floating bathtub means you theoretically don’t need a groundcloth with the Protrail Li, sparing you from further weight and setup difficulty.
Features
- Reinforced pole caps: A lot of pressure is put on the hubs for trekking poles. These are reinforced for extended durability
- Large vestibule: The vestibule or “beak” area is 11 square feet, plenty big for gear organization and maneuvering
- Fast pitch: Like all trekking-pole shelters, it takes a few tries to dial in the system, but once you have it, the pitch is fast, especially since you only need to pound four stakes in the process.
- Smart ventilation design: It’s a constant battle to combat condensation in shelters like this, but storm flaps can be opened and rolled up to allow maximum airflow.
- Bathtub floor: The floating bathtub floor is rugged and tall enough to protect from splashing rain.
Nobody’s Perfect
LightHeart Gear SoLong (Best Tent for Tall People)
Best backpacking tents for thru-hiking: LightHeart Gear SoLong
Category: Trekking pole tent
Interior space: 30 square feet
Why We Love This Tent
The floor of the SoLong is 100 inches long. LightHeart says it’s SO LONG (100 inches, to be precise) that hikers taller than six-foot-eight will still sleep comfortably in it. It’s nice that the Solong has an awning vestibule on one side: perfect if you want more airflow or to enjoy the view from bed without sacrificing overhead protection. The tent likewise has two generous peak vents to cut down on condensation. We also love LightHeart in general as a small, North Carolina-based, woman- and veteran-owned company.
Features
- Eight-inch bathtub floor: Much taller than average, great for preventing splashback.
- Awning fly: One of the vestibules can be propped up with a carbon fiber pole to create an awning.
- Lateral ridge pole: Creates more headroom and lateral stability during windstorms.
- Linelocs: For easy precision tensioning of all guyouts.
- 30D ripstop silnylon: Both fly and bathtub floor.
- Double-stitched seams: For added durability.
Nobody’s Perfect
The awning requires a carbon fiber pole to set up, which is sold separately and not factored into the base weight or price of the tent. I suppose you could also use a short trekking pole to set it up if you have a third one handy (the tent itself requires two).
Not necessarily a true con, but it’s worth noting that while the SoLong is extra long, it’s not extra tall: the peak is 45 inches tall, which is about typical for a backpacking tent.
Best Tent for Tall People Honorable Mention:
The Best Tents for Thru-Hiking for Thru-Hikers: FAQs
What’s the difference between freestanding and trekking pole tents?
The Zpacks Duplex is a classic example of a trekking pole shelter. Photo courtesy Owen Eigenbrot.
Traditional tents have dedicated poles to give the shelter structure and body. These tents will hold their shape without the need for stakes, so they’re referred to as freestanding. (Note: even for freestanding tents, one or two stakes are typically required for the vestibule(s), and the use of additional stakes will improve your tent’s stormworthiness). The MSR Hubba Hubba is a good example of a true freestanding tent. These shelters are simple to pitch, but the poles add both weight and bulk and are always at risk of bending or snapping.
Trekking pole tents are instead supported, obviously, by the user’s trekking poles. These tents are non-freestanding because they require stakes to hold their shape. The Zpacks Duplex is a good example. Trekking pole tents are much harder to set up than their freestanding brethren, but by ditching the tent poles, you’ll save a massive amount of weight and space in your pack. If you’re camping on bedrock, snow, or another medium that won’t readily take stakes, you’re in trouble. Deadman anchors, large rocks, tree trunks, and other objects can be used in place of stakes in a pinch.
Some tents, like the Big Agnes Tiger Wall, are semi-freestanding: they have dedicated poles that mostly support the tent, but they require stakes to give the footbox structure. This hybrid approach helps shave some ounces by simplifying the tent pole architecture while retaining the easy setup advantage of true freestanding tents.
The Zpacks Free Duo is a rare example of a single-wall, DCF, freestanding tent. Photo courtesy Owen Eigenbrot.
Should I go with a two-person tent or a one-person tent?
It’s largely a matter of personal preference, but we will point out that according to our thru-hiker survey, two-person tents are far more popular than their one-person counterparts (even among solo hikers). Most 1p shelters take that designation literally: they’re just wide enough to accommodate a regular-sized human laying on their back with a few inches of space on either side, and that’s it. This makes the tent as light as possible, of course, but can undoubtedly feel cramped to some hikers.
Since your tent will be your home for several months on the trail, many solo thru-hikers choose to upgrade to a 2p tent so they can have a bit more room to spread out. The larger version of the tent usually weighs a few ounces more and is more expensive, but the tradeoff is worth it for many hikers. Similarly, couples often go with a 3p tent.
What’s the difference between single-wall and double-wall tents?
Single-wall tents, like the Zpacks Duplex, shave weight by eliminating the separate bug mesh. Single-wall designs are lighter and faster to set up once you get the hang of it. There’s no separate rainfly to fuss with because the whole tent is waterproof: the rainfly is the tent. This also makes it way easier and drier to set up and take down camp in wet weather.
On the other hand, they’re often poorly ventilated compared to their double-wall friends (though some single-walls do better than others). Condensation is one of the biggest issues with single-wall shelters, though double-walls aren’t immune to this issue either — the mesh just keeps the condensation from the rainfly at a slight distance from you and your stuff. Good campsite selection can help to mitigate this.
READ NEXT – 9 Tips To Help You Find a Perfect Campsite Every Time
Most single-walled tents are also trekking pole setups, while most double-walled designs are freestanding, but this isn’t set in stone. Double-wall trekking pole shelters like the Durston X-Mid and the Six Moon Designs Haven Tarp + NetTent combo do exist. As do single-wall freestanding tents like the Zpacks Free Duo. Which style/combination of styles makes for the best backpacking tents for thru-hikers? It’s largely a matter of personal preference.
What features should I look for in the best backpacking tents?
The Big Agnes Tiger Wall has a good blend of space and weight savings, plus it has an idiot-proof pitch. Photo via Maggie Slepian.
Livable Space: A one-person tent is fine for ounce counters, but some hikers will appreciate a lightweight two-person tent for just themselves. It will allow you to spread out, stay away from the walls, and keep your gear inside with you. For two people on a thru-hike, some two-person models will work fine, but often pairs of hikers size up after a few hundred miles of bumping into each other when sitting up or changing. Consider interior space, vestibule space, and peak height.
General Conveniences: Consider that this is your home for months at a time. What features do you want in your portable house? Two doors and two vestibules for multi-person tents will alleviate any crawling over each other during midnight cathole excursions. Interior side pockets are nice for small items. The best backpacking tents balance functionality and weight.
Ease of Pitch: Test your setup before you leave. The last thing you want to be doing after an excruciating day on trail is fighting with your guylines to get the fly taut before the rain comes in. Or pitching your tent in the mud just to have it collapse on you a few hours later.
Weight-to-Space Ratio: Sure, you have 31 square feet of space, but your tent also weighs six pounds. Is this worth it? It might be, and that’s OK. On the other hand, you could prefer a 14-ounce, single-person trekking pole shelter and forgo the headroom. That’s fine too. More than likely you’ll wind up somewhere in the middle — many of the listed shelters have 27-29 square feet of interior space and weigh 2 – 3 pounds.
What’s the difference between “packaged weight” and “trail weight?”
The packaged weight is the weight of the tent plus everything that comes with it, including instructions, repair kits, stuff sacks, extra stakes, extra guyline … you get the picture.
In contrast, the trail weight (or minimum trail weight) is the combined weight of the tent body, rainfly, and poles (if applicable). It does not include the weight of the stakes, footprint, or any extra guyline you might choose to carry.
As you can see, both numbers give an incomplete idea of the weight of your tent. This true weight will likely be somewhere in between the packaged and trail weights. Some cottage brands, like Zpacks and Gossamer Gear, will give you an itemized breakdown of the individual weights of each tent component down to the smallest stuff sack, adding much-needed clarity to the tent-buying experience.
Do I really need a footprint with my tent?
Yes and no. People have successfully camped footprint-free in all sorts of tents over the years. Still, the footprint (aka ground cloth) will prolong the life of your tent by protecting the floor from moisture and abrasive, puncture-making stuff like rocks, sand, and twigs.
Annoyingly, most tent purchases don’t include the footprint. After shelling out hundreds of dollars for the tent, you then have to fork over an additional $50 or $60 (plus several ounces of base weight) for the ground cloth. Meh.
As an alternative, you can make or buy an inexpensive, lightweight Tyvek or Polycro ground cloth. Some tents, like the Tarptent Protrail, have rugged, puncture-resistant bathtub floors and don’t require a separate footprint.
The Lunar Solo doesn’t require a separate footprint (though it’s probably still a good idea on abrasive media like sand).
What’s the difference between silnylon, silpoly, and DCF?
Silnylon: Most traditional tents are made of silicone-coated ripstop nylon, or silnylon. Silnylon is popular because it’s inexpensive, waterproof, reasonably puncture-resistant, reasonably lightweight, and packs up small. It has a tendency to stretch out and sag when wet, making it tough to get a taut pitch. UV exposure also weakens it quickly.
Silnylon is available in different weights, which are measured in units of deniers (d). The larger the number, the tougher (and heavier) the material. The ultralight Big Agnes Tiger Wall uses thin 15d silnylon, the SMD Lunar Solo uses 20d, and the burlier MSR Hubba Hubba uses 30d. A ripstop nylon backpack, in contrast, might use 500d silnylon.
Silpoly: Silicone-coated polyester isn’t as strong as silnylon when new, but a growing school of thought says silpoly’s superior UV resistance makes it more durable in the long run. It also won’t sag when wet the way silnylon does. Silpoly is growing more and more common in the UL tent world as the fabric technology continues to improve. Six Moon Designs, Durston, and TarpTent have all embraced it over silnylon.
DCF: DCF (Dyneema Composite Fabric) is the cutting edge of ultralight fabrics. Originally designed for use in sailboats, DCF is an extremely lightweight and strong nonwoven/laminated fabric and the darling of the cottage gear trade. It’s completely waterproof and resistant to both tears and stretching, though it can still be punctured fairly easily. It’s easy to repair with a simple patch job, though. It also won’t sag or absorb water when wet.
The DCF One is Gossamer Gear’s update on the original silnylon version of The One. Photo courtesy Carl Stanfield.
Do I need to seam seal my tent?
Depends on the brand. Most big brand tents — Big Agnes, REI, etc. — have factory-taped seams and don’t require initial seam sealing. The factory treatment can wear out after extensive use, so you’ll eventually have to reseal them. Some cottage industry tents, like the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo, don’t come seam-sealed to keep the price lower. You can pay a little extra for seam sealing service or save money and do it yourself.
Fortunately, seam sealer is widely available at camping and hardware stores and is easy to use. Just set up your tent (in a dry, non-dusty, non-windy place), ensure that the seams are clean and dry, and paint seam sealer over all seams that don’t adjoin mesh paneling. Leave the tent set up for several hours until the sealant has dried completely.
Backpacking Tent Alternatives
I wrestled with the possibility of including some fun non-tents and pseudo-tents this year, like the Gossamer Gear DCF Whisper (basically a floor-less tent for less than 10 ounces) or the Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape (11-ounce tarp that doubles as a rain poncho). I decided against it, but I do want to note that tents aren’t your only options.
Many ultralight enthusiasts favor lighter options, like tarps, which provide weather protection but no bug protection, or bivy sacks, which provide full protection but are rather claustrophobic. Hammocks aren’t necessarily lighter than tents and are heavier in many cases, but some hikers find them more comfortable. A hammock is a great option when you’re hiking someplace with lots of trees. Meanwhile, tarps are awesome when you anticipate fairly stable weather and not too many bugs.
Why should you trust us?
Because we’re so incredibly intelligent, of course! Attractive, too. (Not to mention extremely humble).
But if that isn’t enough to impress you, there’s also the fact that everyone who contributed to this article is an experienced thru-hiker with thousands of on-trail miles under their belt. We’re gear nerds who love putting our equipment to the test on trails long and short, and we’ve tested dozens of tents in pursuit of a better night’s sleep in the backcountry.
Moreover, we survey hundreds of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers every year to learn about their behaviors, demographics, and—you guessed it—gear preferences. That means our picks for the best backpacking tents aren’t just our opinions. This list is based on years of feedback from the thru-hiking community.
<em>Check out AT hikers’ picks for the best backpacking tents from the 2021, 2022, and 2023 thru-hiker surveys or browse surveys from all years here.
Competence and backpacking proficiency personified.
Original article by Maggie Slepian. Alex “GPS” Brown and Rachel Shoemaker contributed to the 2023 update of this list. Owen Eigenbrot updated for 2024.
Featured image: Graphic design by Chris Helm (@chris.helm).
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Comments 53
What a wealth of options, especially if one is wealthy.
I’m reminded of advice I received over four decades ago, “Once you make your decision and purchase your tent, put away the catalogs for six months because as soon as you buy a tent, someone will come along with a better one for less money.”
Steve / pearwood
Big Agnes Scout UL2 beats all of these.
Put away the catalogues for 3-5 years, lest you’re haunted by buyer’s remorse!
IKR?! I went with a 1 person tent on clearance wit weighs over 4 pounds! Not what I would go with if making the purchase today. But it saves me money and I have emotional attachment to it now.
It’s a good starter.
Tarptent Li series tents do not need to be seam-sealed.
I looked at that one but was confused if it’s a tent or just rain cover. Is it fully enclosed so a mouse couldn’t crawl in?
This is the real question because I’m only half joking when I say I’d rather deal with a bear than a rat. Bear spray may work a loud whistle may work but mice have zero cares in the world to give. They will just stand in your tent and watch you blow your whistle. I don’t know why, but I am irrationally afraid of them.
I can’t believe that you left out the Dan Durston X-Mid 2p from that list. It blows the doors off all of these tents for the weight to cost to feature ratio. Please take a look at it. We even did a video on it on our youtube channel, as have many others.
+1, this is a solid list but I was quite surprised by the complete absence of the X-Mid 1p or 2p given it’s weight/cost/feature profile and popularity among owners.
Yeah Baby
Love my Durston 1P and wish I had the 2P instead of the $400 2P I have. Just got the 2P earlier.
I started through the list and thought Wait a second, somethings missing here!
The X-Mid 1P did make the list. Maybe they added it later or something?
Yes I have this tent too but never see any one use it but people buy them like no tomorrow.. Its easy to set up and requires less stakes to set up then most tents out there.. They have the one 1p on here because its 28oz but the other one is 38 oz with stakes … Most hikers take t poles any way ….Yes finding spot to put it but you get room to put all your stuff out and cook on other side and put junk on other ..
My husband and I have used a Hyperlite UltaMid 4 for about 5 years now on Vermont’s Long Trail and about half of the AT. I don’t see any tents here that I would prefer to the Hyperlite. It beats all of them in every category, except for price. Which we didn’t mind, since it is a lifetime purchase.
Bonus: Made in Biddeford Maine!
I can’t say enough good about Hyperlite’s packs either. I bought a 2400 Southwest in 2013. I use it for everything, 2 week backpack trips, dayhikes, long ski tours, and it is still going strong. I saw xc skiers training for the Canadian Ski Marathon in the Gatineau using this pack!
You seem to have gotten mixed up between the ProTrail and ProTrail Li. The Li line with Tarptent are DCF so they need to be seam-sealed and it won’t sag overnight for the same reason. Also as far as weight goes, it’s pretty similar to other solo tent when you don’t include the stakes in its weight.
The li, DCF line from TarpTent doesn’t need to be seam sealed. You have it backwards.
Much is made of the condensation issues on single-wall tents. In my experience with double-wall tents, the inner almost always has substantial mesh on the roof. When condensation forms on the inside of the rain fly (which it does just like a single wall tent), the slightest movement of the fly sends condensation raining down onto the mesh and hence all over the contents of your tent. Having used both extensively, I see very little difference in the performance of single and double wall tents with regard to condensation management (the one exception being the “physically touching the tent wall” scenario). If you really want to manage condensation, try picking campsites with a breeze (and open your vestibule to allow the breeze to sweep your tent) and avoid valley bottoms where cold air settles – not always possible of course, and in stormy weather all bets are off, but there’s no miraculous difference between single and double wall tents for avoiding condensation.
Your comment is exactly what I learned over time.
Once I understood that it was easier to switch to a single wall tent and to keep it condensation free on the Appalachian Trail.
Great detailed information! I’m upgrading to Tigerwall UL2 to get me into both, solo or hiking with my partner.
But also curious to know abt Slingfin tents review. Though they are smaller company, they’ve great tents but not very popular.
I wish they did a sub category for best UL tents for tall people. I’ve found listed dimensions differ than actual usable inside dimensions on some tents.
My friend is 6’4″. He uses the Zpacks Triplex and sleeps diagonally. Says it’s perfect.
All great options, but I have my eye on the SlingFin Portal. Overkill for many, but I love winter backpacking and the storm-worthiness of the Portal is something I really value! Hoping for an early February ’23 or ’24 AT NOBO hike, all of these tents would be great (love my Lunar Solo!) but SlingFin is a nifty company!
I find that a true 1p tent needs about 19-20 square feet and a true 2p really needs about 30 to work for most people for more than a week or two at a time.
I’ve made do with less (my wife and I put about 1200 miles on our Copper Spur), especially with vertical sides which make the interior feel bigger, but the extra space is huge in making a tent livable.
I’ve really noticed that since moving to a Triplex life has really been better when we tent.
I see a similar dynamic with the Durston cult members. That is a 32 square foot 2p tent. People using it are often just much happier.
I realize that some do ok with less space. There is that group of couples who hike while sharing a 1p tent. However, for us, for a 5’5” and 5’8” couple, I’ve found that 27-28 square feet is too little for long term use on a trail.
It was great for short trips, but for month after month it started to feel cramped.
37 square feet is grand, especially in the rain and keeping your gear inside the tent instead of the vestibule. And it is in line with what twice a 1p interior adds up to.
The difference the extra space makes is subtle, but 20-30 days into a backpacking trip you will find yourself more likely to look forward to alternatives to your tent every night if it is “too small.”
And I suspect how much rain you are getting makes a difference as well as to what is “too small.”
With more space I’m suddenly much more willing to use the tent instead of a shelter or looking for a hostel as we finish the AT.
Thought I’d bring that up. Curious what you think the right space numbers are and what factors into it.
Any chance you could put the international weights please against these tents (like 1025 grams in brackets – to save us googling every one). 2 pounds 4 ounces is complete gibberish to most people 🙁
What about LightHeart Gear? For tall people, they are the best.
This year on the PCT I saw a lot of Altaplex style tents on the trail. I was surprised at the inroads that tent has made but it seems like it is lighter and roomy enough for one.
I also saw a fair number of li Tarptents.
I’m really curious to see what 2023 brings.
The best freestanding tent I’ve found is a Zpacks Duplex with the additional Free Standing Flex Kit.
The combination just gives you so many OPTIONS.
If you just want to use the trekking poles only, that’s fine.
If you just want to use the Free Standing Flex poles only, that’s fine. I could set up the Duplex in a parking lot if I wanted to. Many times I wouldn’t even use stakes.
If you use BOTH the trekking poles and the Free Standing Flex pole in combination…the tent is virtually indestructible against wind.
On the CDT the wind is SUPER strong in places. The combo of trekking poles AND free standing poles stood up to the wind with no problem. Winds at times were sustained at around 40-50mph. ANY tent is going to be a bear to set up in such winds, but once the Duplex was up, and all the lines were well secured…perfect.
for Colorado bikepacking I’ve narrowed my choice down to 2 options – Six Moons Design Lunar Solo and Durston’s X-Mid 1. leaning towards the X-Mid (it’s in stock!) but can anyone make a strong case for the Lunar Solo?
Great article and portfolio of tent options. I’ll be switching it up between the X-Mid 2 Pro and the HMG Mid 1.
You should check out the Tarptent Dipole li tents- these tents are innovative with a huge interior for a ul tent, with great airflow and views, and solid wind stability. My Dipole 2 li is my favorite tent.
I have a Durston 1P. For winter camping I unclip the inner and only use the outer tent. I put down a tarp to sleep on. Super easy to set up. I added longer cords for the corners so I could use deadmans.
Used polypro as the ground cover on snow once. I swear that stuff has a negative coefficient of friction on snow (at least zero). Pretty sure every time I turned over I proved the right-hand rule.
Disappointed I don’t see the tarp tent notch in this list. After more than 15k miles (ECT, PCT, CDT, and AT 2 more times) the notch is the best tent I’ve owned- and it weighs the same as the duplex but is double walled. I’ve seen all of the tents listed saggy and or failed when the notch can be pitched tight and withstand anything you can throw at it.
Has anyone remade the Moss Stardome tent? A little heavy, but it was strong enough that you could stand on top of it.
It probably saved my friend and I one winter camping just outside of Snowbird UT. We got 3′ of snow that night, not many tents could hold up under that weight!