Should You Consider An Ultralight Backpacking Tent?
An ultralight backpacking tent is a good investment if you are serious about cutting weight. An ultralight tent can shave a pound or more from your pack weight while still providing a secure shelter.
It’s really quite amazing what the tent designers have been coming up with in recent years.
Due to super-light fabrics and innovative designs, you can now get an ultra light tent that’s nearly as roomy and durable as much heavier traditional shelters.
Nowadays, you don’t have to sacrifice much in the way of comfort to go ultralight; although you may have to pay a little more.
Knowing the conditions you’ll be facing will help you choose the best tent. Some ultralight backpacking tents are not freestanding; a few use trekking poles for support. This makes them very light, but less stable in strong winds.
Also, many tents use a single wall design to save weight. This makes setup easier, but tends to produce more condensation.
Careful pitching to maximize airflow is more important with a single wall tent. A double wall design allows better ventilation.
Pay attention to size, too. Ultra light tents are usually somewhat small, and some are very small. If you are a tall or large person, you need to make sure the tent is long enough or wide enough to accommodate you.
Is a vestibule important to you? It adds weight, but if you expect a lot of rain, it will make a difference. A vestibule provides a covered area for gear storage and cooking.
Finally, buy a tent that will accommodate the number of people you expect to hike with most often.
I have compiled a list of some of the best ultralight backpacking tents that I have found in the table below.
Ultralight Backpacking Tents
| Photo | Name | Weight | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
  | ALPS Mountaineering Meramac 2 Person Tent - Fiberglass Poles (5-Feet x 7-Feet 6-Inch) | 8.1 pounds | 4.7 | $ |
  | Mountainsmith Morrison 2 Person 3 Season Tent (Citron Green) | 4.7 pounds | 4.6 | $$ |
  | Weanas® Waterproof Double Layer 2, 3, 4 Person 3 Season Aluminum Rod Double Skylight Outdoor Camping Tent | 4.5 to 6.2 pounds | 4.0 | $ |
  | Eureka! Solitaire - Tent (sleeps 1) | 2.6 pounds | 3.8 | $ |
  | Wenzel Current Hiker Two-Person Tent | 3.4 pounds | 3.3 | $ |
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