5 Best Backpacking Tents for Camping

We compiled a list of the most lightweight backpacking tents for camping, including designs by Big Agnes, REI, and Nemo. The tents in this list are rated based on packed weight and size.

Zpacks Duplex Lite

zpacks 5 Best Backpacking Tents for Camping
  • 2 person
  • Packed Weight: 14.9 oz (423 g)
  • Packed Size: 5 x 11 inches (12.7 x 28 cm) (source)

Hyperlite Mountain Gear UltaMid 2

Hyperlite Ultamid Ultralight Tents Under 3 Pounds
  • 2 person
  • Packed Weight: 18.85 oz (534 g)
  • Packed Size: 8.5 x 6 x 5.5 inches (21.6 x 15.2 x 14 cm)

NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO 2

NEMO Hornet Osmo with Rainfly
  • 2 person
  • Packed Weight: 2 lbs 1 oz (935 g)
  • Packed Size: 19 x 4 x 2 inches (48 x 10 x 5 cm) (source)

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL3 Review
  • 2 person
  • Packed Weight: 2 lb. 8 oz. (1.13 kg)
  • Packed Size: 5.5″ x 18″ (14 x 45.7 cm)

Nemo Dragonfly

NEMO Dragonfly Osmo with Rainfly door open
  • 2 person
  • Packed Weight: 3 lb. 2 oz. (1.41 kg)
  • Packed Size: 19.5″ x 4.5″ x 3.5″ (50 x 14 x 9 cm)

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Big Agnes Copper Spur Non Toxic Tent
  • Packed Weight: 3 lbs 2 oz (1.42 kg)
  • Packed Size: 5.5 x 17.5 inches (14 x 44.5 cm) (source)

REI Co op Half Dome SL

REI Co-op Half Dome Non Toxic Tent
  • 2+ person
  • Packed Weight: 4 lb. 11.5 oz. (2.14 kg)
  • Packed Size: 7″ x 20.5″ (17.8 x 52.1 cm)

What are the dimensions of the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 when packed?

The packed dimensions of the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ tent are 7 x 20.5 inches (17.8 x 52.1 cm)1. This packed size is relatively large compared to some ultralight backpacking tents, which is expected given its spacious interior and durable construction. The single-pole hubbed design contributes to the tent’s diameter when packed, but it still remains manageable for backpacking trips, especially when the weight is divided between two hikers2.

Are there any significant differences in the packed weight of the Nemo Dragonfly 2 person and the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2?

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 is significantly lighter, weighing 10 ounces (283 grams) less than the NEMO Dragonfly 2. This difference of about 0.28 kg is considerable in the context of ultralight backpacking, where every ounce matters.

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