Who Makes Best Backpacking Tents? | Hikers University

It can be hard to know which brand makes the best backpacking tents. With so many brands out there, it can be hard to know which one is the best.

It can be tough to figure out what features to look for when buying a backpacking tent. Not all tents are created equal, and some are better suited for certain activities than others. Do you go for a lightweight option that might not be as durable? Or do you choose a heavier model that will last longer but might be more difficult to carry around?

There are a few brands that stand out as leaders in the backpacking tent market. Big Agnes is known for their durability and comfort. REI is known to offer quality tents at a variety of price points. NEMO and Sea to Summit are renowned for providing tents that are lightweight and sturdy.

When you're planning a backpacking trip, one of the most important items to consider is your shelter. You want something that is lightweight and portable yet still provides protection from the elements. In this article, we will discuss some of the best backpacking tents on the market today. We'll take a look at different types of tents and provide some tips for choosing the right one for your needs. So, whether you're looking for a three-person tent for your next family camping trip or a one-person tent for an extended solo hike, we've got you covered.

We spent over 50 hours researching and testing some of the best backpacking tents on the market today. We looked at a variety of factors, including weight, size, capacity, price, and features. We also considered customer reviews and ratings when making our selections. After careful consideration, we narrowed our list down to the five best backpacking tents currently available.

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1. Big Agnes Copper Spur

If you need the best backpacking tent, then the Copper Spur from Big Agnes is definitely worth taking a look at. This tent is perfect for backpacking trips, and it offers plenty of features that will make your camping experience much more enjoyable.

The Copper Spur HV UL Tent is a four-season tent that is perfect for backpacking, backpacking, and other outdoor adventures. The tent has been designed with high-quality materials and construction techniques to provide the utmost weather protection and durability. The tent features a double-wall design with awnings on each side to provide ventilation and views, while the waterproof flysheet protects against the elements. This tent also features an innovative pole system that uses color-coded clips and webbing to make set-up quick and easy. And when it's time to pack up, the tent can be easily compressed into a small footprint for easy transport.

The Copper Spur is a four-season tent that is designed for backpacking and ultralight camping. The tent uses a double-wall construction with an inner mesh wall and an outer rainfly. The inner mesh wall has two doors and two vestibules, and the rainfly can be rolled up to provide ventilation. The flysheet is made from ripstop nylon that is treated with a waterproof coating, and the floor is made from a polyester taffeta that is also treated with a waterproof coating.

The tent also features welded corners and reinforcements that help to create a strong and stable structure. It is a freestanding tent that can be pitched on any surface, and it features various guyline attachment points. The tent also includes a number of features that make it easy to set up and take down. The tent poles are made with lightweight aluminum, and the tent comes with color-coded webbing that makes it easy to identify the correct placement for each pole.

The Copper Spur is a top-of-the-line camping option that can comfortably accommodate up to four people. The tent has a floor area of 57 square feet and a peak height of 50 inches, making it roomy enough for four people to sleep comfortably. However, the tent can theoretically fit up to six people though it would likely be quite cramped.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur is a highly technical and feature-rich backpacking tent that weighs in at just under five pounds. In addition, the tent uses DAC Featherlite aluminum poles that are both strong and lightweight. When packed up, the tent measures 18 by 27 inches, making it easy to transport in a backpack or car. It is one of the lightest four-season tents on the market, and it's an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers.

Test Results

We put this Big Agnes tent to the test on a three-day backpacking trip in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The weather during our trip ranged from sunny and warm to cold and rainy, and the tent performed admirably in all conditions. The double-wall construction kept us dry and comfortable during rainstorms, and the mesh inner wall provided plenty of ventilation during hot summer nights. The tent also held up well in high winds, and we never felt like the tent was at risk of blowing away.

The only minor issue we had with this tent was that it did not come with a footprint, which is an optional accessory. We would recommend purchasing a footprint if you plan on using the Copper Spur HV UL Tent in rocky or root-filled terrain, as it will help protect your tent from sharp objects.

What Others Say

The Copper Spur HV UL has earned rave reviews from a variety of publications. Backpacker Magazine gave the tent a perfect five-star rating and praised its "lightweight construction, easy set-up, and roomy interior." Outside Magazine also gave the Copper Spur a glowing review, calling it "a top-notch option for backcountry adventures."

Users on Amazon also seem to love this tent, as it has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5-stars. One reviewer called the tent "an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers," while another said that it was "a great option for those looking for a lightweight yet sturdy tent."

Our Two Cents

For anyone in the market for a new tent, the Copper Spur HV UL is definitely worth considering. It's one of the lightest tents on the market, yet it's still surprisingly spacious and sturdy. The double-wall construction helps to keep the inside of the tent warm and dry, even in wet weather, and the large windows provide plenty of ventilation. The only downside is that the price is quite high, but given the quality of the materials and craftsmanship, it's definitely worth the investment.

Pros

  • Lightweight yet spacious and sturdy
  • Double-wall construction keeps the inside of the tent dry
  • Large windows provide plenty of ventilation
  • Can accommodate up to 4 individuals
  • A 4-season tent

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Lack of a footprint
  • Tapered foot

2. REI Passage 2

If you are in the market for a new backpacking tent, the REI Passage 2 is a model you should consider. This tent has many features that make it appealing to backpackers, including an affordable price tag and an easy set-up.

This backpacking tent is a great option for anyone who wants an affordable, durable tent. The Passage 2 is made with waterproof, breathable fabric that will keep you dry in even the heaviest of rains. The tent also features a double-walled design, which provides additional protection against the elements.

The Passage 2 can accommodate up to two people and has two doors and two vestibules, making it easy to get in and out. The tent also has an integrated rainfly, which can be used to further protect against the elements.

When it comes to backpacking tents, it is one of the most popular models on the market. However, there are a few other options that you might want to consider. The MSR Hubba Hubba NX, for example, is a bit more expensive but offers some additional features, such as a larger footprint and an optional gear loft. If you are looking for an even lighter option, the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL tent might be a good choice. This tent is made with ultralight materials and weighs just over two pounds.

But what sets this tent apart from the competition is its price. At just $160, the Passage 2 is one of the most affordable backpacking tents on the market. When you compare it to other models in its class, such as the MSR Hubba Hubba NX, which retails for $430, it's easy to see why this tent is so popular.

The tent body is made from waterproof ripstop nylon, and the floor is made from waterproof polyester. The canopy is made from mesh, which helps to keep the inside of the tent cool and insect-free. The tents come with two aluminum poles, which can be easily set up and taken down. Additionally, the tents have two vestibules, which provide extra storage space for gear. The fly is made from a UV-resistant material, which helps to protect the tent from the sun's harmful rays.

The Passage 2 also has a few other features that make it appealing to backpackers. For example, the tent body is seam-taped, which helps to prevent water from leaking in. Additionally, the tent has a waterproof rainfly, which can be used to further protect against the elements. The fly also has two vents, which help to keep the inside of the tent cool and comfortable.

This REI  tent is extremely easy to set up and take down. The poles are color-coded, so you can easily identify which one goes where. Additionally, the fly has a built-in clip system that makes it easy to attach to the tent body. The whole process should only take a few minutes, even for first-time campers.

It has an interior height of 40 inches, making it comfortable for two people to sleep in. The floor area is 31 square feet, and the vestibule area is 19 square feet. This gives you plenty of room to store your gear without feeling cramped. The tent is made with waterproof polyester and has taped seams to prevent leaks. The flysheet can be removed in warmer weather to create more ventilation. The frame is made of aluminum and fiberglass, making it very sturdy.

Please note that it is one of the heavier two-person backpacking tents on the market, weighing in at just over five pounds. For comparison, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL also weighs 5 pounds but can accommodate four people. The Passage 2 has average packed size for a two-person backpacking tent. When packed up, it measures 8 by 18 inches.

The freestanding design of the Passage 2 makes it easy to set up. You won't need to use stakes if you don't want to, but the included guylines and eight aluminum stakes will keep the tent secure in high winds. The flysheet can be rolled up and stowed away in good weather, and two large vents on the fly help circulate air and prevent condensation buildup.

Test Results

We tested the Passage 2 on our 4-day backpacking trip on the Howe Sound Crest Trail. The tent performed admirably, withstanding high winds and heavy rain. We were especially impressed with how dry we stayed during a thunderstorm on the second night. The flysheet did an excellent job of keeping out the water, and the taped seams prevented any leaks. The mesh canopy also kept out mosquitoes, which was a huge plus.

We were extremely impressed with the tent's waterproofing and breathability, as well as its overall durability. The Passage was also one of the easier tents to set up, thanks to its color-coded poles and stake-out loops. We also liked the fact that the Passage has two doors and two vestibules, making it easy to get in and out. The only downside we found with the Passage 2 is its weight. At 5 lbs 10 oz, it's not the lightest tent in its class. But if you're willing to sacrifice a bit of weight for an affordable, durable tent, the Passage is a great option.

What Others Say

The Passage 2 has received mixed reviews on other sites. Some users have complained about the tent's weight, while others have praised its durability and waterproofing. One user wrote, "This is a great tent for the price, but it's definitely not light. If you can handle the weight, it's a great value." Another user said, "We used this tent on our thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, and it held up really well. We had no problems with leaks or durability."

With a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on REI.com, the Passage 2 is one of REI's most popular tents. Users have given it high marks for its durability, waterproofing, and easy set-up. One user wrote, "This tent was amazing on our recent thru-hike of the John Muir Trail. It rained almost every day, and we never had a single leak." Another user said, "I was a bit worried about the weight, but this tent is so easy to set up and take down that it's worth it. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a durable, affordable backpacking tent."

Our Two Cents

The Passage 2 is a great option for those looking for an affordable backpacking tent. It's easy to set up, has plenty of room for two people, and comes with a rainfly for inclement weather. While it is one of the heavier two-person backpacking tents on the market, it still offers great value for your money.

Pros

  • Easy set-up
  • Color-coded poles and stake out loops
  • Two doors and two vestibules
  • Durable and waterproof
  • Affordable
  • Accommodate 2 individuals

Cons

  • Heavy for a two-person tent

3. REI Quarter Dome SL 2

The REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Tent is a great choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, two-person backpacking tent. The Quarter Dome SL 2 weighs just under four pounds, making it one of the lightest tents in its class. Despite its lightweight, the Quarter Dome SL 2 is surprisingly sturdy, with a freestanding design that can withstand strong winds. The tent also features a waterproof rain fly and bathtub-style floor, ensuring that you and your gear will stay dry even in the wettest conditions. The Quarter Dome SL 2 also has plenty of ventilation to keep things comfortable in warm weather, and the large doors make it easy to get in and out. If you're looking for a lightweight tent that doesn't sacrifice comfort or durability, the REI Quarter Dome SL 2 is a great option.

The tent body is made from waterproof, breathable fabric that keeps you dry while allowing excess heat and moisture to escape. The tent uses a single aluminum pole to support the canopy, and the entire structure weighs just three pounds. The quarter dome design means that the walls are steep, so you'll have plenty of headroom. The canopy is made from waterproof ripstop nylon, and the floor is made from waterproof polyester. The tent also has a mesh inner door to provide ventilation and keep insects out. The tent can be set up in minutes, and it comes with guy lines and stakes for added stability in windy conditions.

The REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Tent is a great option for those looking for a semi-freestanding tent. The tent has a freestanding design, meaning that it does not require staking to be set up. However, the tent does have a few features that help to improve its stability in windy conditions. The first is that the tent has guy lines that can be attached to the corners of the tent. These lines help to provide some additional support and can help to keep the tent from being blown over in strong winds. In addition, the rain fly of the tent extends down to the ground, providing another layer of protection against the wind.

The SPUR HV UL Tent can accommodate up to three people. It has a floor area of 28.7 square feet and an interior height of 38 inches. The tent is made with a high-strength, waterproof fabric that is also breathable. The frame is made of aluminum rods that are both light and strong. The tent also has two large doors for easy access and a rain fly that provides additional protection from the elements. With its spacious interior and reliable construction, the SPUR HV UL Tent is an ideal option for any camping trip.

The REI Quarter Dome SL 2 Tent has a vestibule area of 21.5 square feet. This is large enough to store your gear and keep it out of the elements. It has a packed weight of 2 lbs 14 oz, which is very impressive for a tent of this size. It features a single hubbed poleset which makes setting up quick and easy. The poles are made up of NFL Aluminum and are very strong and lightweight. The canopy is made out of nylon and is both waterproof and breathable. The floor is made out of ripstop nylon, which is also waterproof.

The REI Quarter Dome SL Tent also has a gear loft and two mesh pockets for organization and storage. The gear loft is great for storing small items like your glasses or headlamp. The mesh pockets are located at the corners of the tent and are perfect for holding larger items like your shoes or a book. The guy lines and loops on the reflective stake minimize nighttime trip hazards. The vertical sidewalls create ample elbow room, and the trapezoidal floor plan ensures that there's plenty of space where you need it. The no-drip entryway means that you won't have to worry about water getting in, and the included rainfly provides additional protection from the elements. The Quarter Dome SL is an ideal choice for camping, backpacking, or any other outdoor adventure.

The Quarter Dome SL 2 Tent from REI is one of the lightest and most compact two-person tents on the market, weighing in at just over two pounds. It's also easy to set up, with a single aluminum pole that slides through color-coded webbing loops. The tent also features two large doors and plenty of headroom, making it one of the most comfortable tents to spend time in. Additionally, the canopy is made from a durable material that can withstand high winds. When compared to other ultralight tents on the market, the Quarter Dome SL 2 Tent offers a good balance of weight, space, and features. It's an excellent choice for backpackers who want a tent that won't weigh them down or take up too much space in their pack.

Test Results

We put the REI Quarter Dome SL 2 through a series of tests to see how it performed in various conditions. We set up the tent in our backyard, and we were impressed with how easy it was to do. The single-pole design makes it quick and easy to set up, and the color-coded webbing loops make it easy to identify where each one goes. We also took the tent out for a weekend camping trip, and we were happy with how well it held up in windy and rainy conditions. The included rainfly provided good coverage, and we didn't have any issues with water getting into the tent. The mesh door was also effective at keeping insects out.

The generous vestibules on the Quarter Dome SL Tent are large enough to store your gear and keep it out of the elements. The lack of a footprint is one of the few drawbacks of the Quarter Dome SL Tent. If you're planning on camping in rocky or sandy conditions, we recommend buying a separate footprint to protect the bottom of the tent. Overall, we were very impressed with the REI Quarter Dome SL Tent. It's an excellent choice for backpackers who want a lightweight and compact tent that's easy to set up and provides plenty of space inside.

What Others Say

User reviews of the REI Quarter Dome SL Tent are overwhelmingly positive. Many users say that it's one of the lightest and most compact tents they've ever used. Others appreciate how easy it is to set up, and many users say that it's one of the most comfortable tents they've ever slept in. There are a few complaints about the lack of a footprint, but overall, users say that this is an excellent tent for backpackers who want a lightweight option that doesn't sacrifice too much space or features.

With an impressive 4.1 out of 5-star rating on REI, the Quarter Dome SL 2 from REI is one of the most popular ultralight tents on the market. If you're looking for a lightweight and compact tent that's easy to set up and provides plenty of space inside, the Quarter Dome SL Tent is a great choice.

Our Two Cents

The Quarter Dome SL 2 is considered one of the best on the market for a variety of reasons: its weight, size, easy set-up, and comfort. With plenty of space for two people and their gear, this tent is perfect for backpacking trips or even extended camping stays. Although there is no included footprint, many users find that the Quarter Dome SL 2 provides enough protection from the ground up. Overall, this is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and compact tent that doesn't sacrifice too much space or comfort.

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Easy to set up
  • Plenty of space
  • Great value for money
  • Excellent protection against the elements
  • Can accommodate up to 3 people

Cons

  • No included footprint

4. NEMO Dragonfly 2

The NEMO Dragonfly 2 is a state-of-the-art backpacking tent that offers hikers a comfortable and spacious sleeping area. The tent consists of a single aluminum pole that creates a freestanding structure, and the body of the tent is made from waterproof and breathable fabric. The Dragonfly 2 also features a large front entryway with a vestibule, and it can accommodate up to three people. The Dragonfly 2 also has a variety of other features that make it ideal for backpacking, including an integrated rainfly, internal storage pockets, and a zippered door for privacy. When it comes to backpacking tents, the NEMO Dragonfly 2 is one of the most popular options on the market. Thanks to its innovative design, it offers hikers everything they need to enjoy a comfortable night's sleep in the great outdoors.

The DAC Featherlite Aluminum pole creates a strong and stable frame, while the waterproof and breathable fabric keeps you dry and comfortable in all weather conditions. The large front entryway makes it easy to get in and out of the tent, and the vestibule provides plenty of space for storing gear. The internal storage pockets are perfect for keeping small items organized, and the zippered door allows you to have privacy when you need it.

The NEMO Dragonfly 2 has a packed weight of just three pounds, making it one of the lightest tents on the market. When packed, the dimensions are 19.5 by 4.5 inches, meaning it takes up very little space in your backpack. This is ideal for hikers who want to save space for other gear, and it also makes the Dragonfly 2 easy to transport. The vestibule area is 20 sq ft, and the floor area is 28 sq ft. With a peak height of 40 inches, the Dragonfly is tall enough for most campers.

The trapezoidal rainfly in NEMO Dragonfly 2 Tent is designed to protect against the winds. The sides of the rainfly are angled so that they catch the wind and create a downward force. This downward force helps to keep the rainfly in place and prevents it from being blown away by the wind. The fly also has a special PU coating that helps it shed water, keeping you dry even in heavy downpours. In addition, the fly is equipped with guylines that can be staked into the ground to provide additional stability against strong winds. As a result, the NEMO Dragonfly 2 Tent is an excellent choice for anyone who wants reliable protection from the weather.

The NEMO Dragonfly 2 tent is a great choice for camping in all kinds of weather conditions. It has a sturdy frame that can withstand strong winds, and the waterproof fabric helps to keep you dry in the event of rain or snow. The tent also has a double-wall design that provides extra insulation, making it a good option for camping in colder weather. In addition, the large windows and doors provide plenty of ventilation, preventing the interior from getting too stuffy.

When it comes to camping, comfort is key. No one wants to spend their vacation feeling cramped and claustrophobic, and that's why the NEMO Dragonfly 2 is such an exceptional tent. Its unique design means that even six-foot-tall sleepers have enough head-to-toe length when lying down, and there's also plenty of vertical headroom for sitting up. As a result, you'll never feel cramped or uncomfortable, no matter how long you spend in Dragonfly 2. And because it's made with high-quality materials, you can rest assured that this tent will withstand anything Mother Nature throws at it.

Test Results

We put the NEMO Dragonfly through a series of tests to see how it performed in real-world conditions. We set up the tent in a variety of locations, including on grass, sand, and concrete, and we also tested it in both windy and calm conditions. We found that the Dragonfly was extremely easy to set up and take down, thanks to its freestanding design. The poles are made from durable aluminum, so they're lightweight but still strong enough to withstand heavy winds. And because the fabric is waterproof and breathable, we never felt cramped or uncomfortable inside the tent, even when the weather turned bad.

The storage pockets and gear loft are great for organizing small items, and the zippered door provides privacy when you need it. However, we did notice that the tapered width was narrow at the feet, which caused the fabric to sag a bit when we were inside. We also found that the fly wasn't as waterproof as we would have liked, and it didn't provide much protection from the sun. Overall, though, we were very impressed with the NEMO Dragonfly Tent. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants a lightweight, comfortable, and easy-to-use backpacking tent.

What Others Say

User reviews of the NEMO Dragonfly Tent are overwhelmingly positive. Many users praise the tent for its easy set-up, comfortable interior, and durable construction. Some reviewers do note that the fly isn't completely waterproof and that the sides of the tent aren't as tall as they would like. However, these complaints are minor compared to the overwhelming number of people who love this tent.

The 4.5 out of 5-star rating on REI speaks for itself. The NEMO Dragonfly Tent is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a reliable, comfortable, and easy-to-use backpacking tent.

Our Two Cents

NEMO has really outdone itself with the Dragonfly tent series--it's one of the most popular backpacking tents for a reason. The Dragonfly's weather protection is top-notch; it's comfortable and spacious for up to three people. It's no wonder this tent is one of the most popular options on the market. If you can get over its narrow-tapered foot, the Dragonfly is an excellent backpacking tent option that will serve you well in a variety of weather conditions.

Pros

  • Spacious interior
  • Extreme weather protection
  • Easy to set up
  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Great vestibule area
  • Accommodate up to 3 people

Cons

  • Narrow at the feet
  • No footprint included
  • Somewhat expensive

6. Sea to Summit Telos TR 2

Looking for a great backpacking tent? Check out the Sea to Summit Telos TR 2! This tent is perfect for camping trips and backpacking excursions. It's lightweight and easy to set up, making it a great option for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line backpacking tent.

The Sea to Summit Telos TR 2 Backpacking Tent is a lightweight, freestanding tent that is designed for use in all seasons. The double-wall construction features a waterproof and breathable canopy, with a water-resistant floor and bathtub-style walls to keep you dry and comfortable in all conditions. The aluminum frame is both strong and light, and the Hubbed Pole Connection System makes for quick and easy set-up. The large front vestibule provides ample storage space for gear, and the reflective guyline points make it easy to find your tent in low-light conditions. Whether you're hitting the trail for a weekend adventure or spending weeks in the backcountry, the Sea to Summit Telos TR 2 Backpacking Tent is an ideal choice for all your camping needs.

The Telos TR 2 is designed with unique Tension Ridge™ architecture that creates a strong and stable structure. The double-walled tent body is made of waterproof and breathable fabric that can withstand high winds and heavy rain. The flysheet is made of durable ripstop nylon that is UV-resistant and has a water-repellent finish. The floor is made of waterproof and breathable nylon with a PU coating. The seams are taped with waterproof tape for added protection. The Telos TR Backpacking Tent also comes with a rainfly, guy lines, and stakes. It has a packed size of 5.1" x 18.9 and only weighs 3 lbs 10 oz.

The Telos TR 2 also features an internal frame that can be used to pitch the tent in windy conditions. The frame strengthens the structure and prevents the tent from collapsing in high winds. The frame can also be used to create awnings or sunshades. The external frame is made from fiberglass poles that are connected with a shock cord. This unique design makes the Telos TR 2 one of the strongest and most weather-resistant tents on the market.

The Lightbar™ pole storage sack is a welcome addition to the Telos TR 2 tent. This innovative feature helps you keep your poles organized and makes setting up a breeze. The Lightbar™ also glows in the dark, so you can find your tent at night. This is a great addition to any tent, and it's one of the many reasons why the Telos TR 2 is one of the best tents on the market. Thanks to the Lightbar™, setting up your tent will be a hassle-free experience, and you'll never have to worry about losing your poles again.

What sets this tent apart from other backpacking tents is its exceptional headroom. The Telos TR has a peak height of 43.5", which is significantly taller than most other tents in its class. This allows you to sit up and move around inside the tent without feeling cramped. The added headroom also provides extra space for gear storage.

Most camping tents are designed with ventilation in mind, but the Telos TR 2 takes things to the next level with its oversized Apex Vent™. The Apex Vent™ is a unique feature that helps to regulate temperature and prevent condensation buildup. By drawing fresh air in from the top of the tent, the Apex Vent™ helps to ensure that the inside of the tent stays cool and comfortable. In addition, the vent can be opened or closed depending on the weather conditions. This allows campers to adjust the amount of ventilation as needed, ensuring that they stay comfortable no matter what the weather is like. As a result, the Apex Vent™ is an essential feature for anyone who wants to enjoy a comfortable camping experience.

The 3-piece, modular FairShare storage sack system is another great feature of the Telos TR 2 tent. This system includes an internal mesh pocket, an external gear loop, and daisy chain loops. The mesh pocket is great for storing small items like your keys or phone. The external gear loop lets you attach larger items like a flashlight or camp stove. And the daisy chain loops provide even more options for attaching gear to the outside of the tent. This system gives you plenty of options for storing your gear, making it easy to keep your campsite organized and tidy.

The FairShare sacks are color-coded so you can easily find what you need, and they're also designed to be used as stuff sacks for sleeping bags or other gear. Thanks to the FairShare system, packing up your tent will be a breeze, and you'll never have to search for your gear in the bottom of a backpack again.

Test Results

We put the Telos TR 2 through a series of tests to see how it performed in the field. We set up the tent in a variety of conditions, including windy weather and heavy rain. We also took the Telos TR Backpacking Tent on a multi-day backpacking trip to see how it held up in real-world conditions. Overall, we were very impressed with the performance of the Sea To Summit Telos TR 2. It was easy to set up and takedown, and it provided ample space for two people. The double-wall construction kept us dry and comfortable, even in wet and windy conditions. The Apex Vent™ worked well to regulate temperature and prevent condensation buildup. And overall, we found the Telos TR Backpacking Tent to be a reliable and well-made tent that we would feel confident using in all seasons.

We did notice that sometimes water would pool on the reverse head pole. This was more of a cosmetic issue and didn't affect the performance of the tent. We also found that the guy lines were a bit short, which made it difficult to secure the tent in high winds. But overall, we were very impressed with the Sea to Summit Telos TR Backpacking Tent and would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable camping option.

What Others Say

The Sea to Summit Telos TR 2 is a popular tent among serious hikers and campers. Its four-season design and large vestibule make it a versatile option for a variety of conditions, and its lightweight frame makes it easy to travel with. The 4.5 out of 5-star rating on REI speaks for itself—this is one of the most popular backpacking tents on the market. The average customer review rating is also very high, with many people praising the Telos TR Backpacking Tent for its easy set-up, durability, and comfort, with one noting that it "withstood some pretty high winds without any issues."

Another reviewer writes that the "large doors and venting system" make the Telos TR 2 "one of the best three-season tents on the market." Some reviewers do note that the tent is on the expensive side, but many feel that it is worth the price tag. Overall, the Sea to Summit Telos TR Backpacking Tent is a well-rounded option that is sure to please even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

Our Two Cents

If you're looking for a reliable and comfortable backpacking tent, the Sea to Summit Telos TR Backpacking Tent is a great option. It's easy to set up and takedown, and it's packed with features that will make your camping experience more enjoyable. The FairShare storage sack system is a particularly handy feature, and we appreciate the attention to detail that Sea To Summit has put into this tent. While it is on the expensive side, we think the Telos TR Backpacking Tent is worth the investment if you're serious about enjoying your time outdoors.

Pros

  • Extremely durable
  • Easy to set up and takedown
  • The Apex Vent™ works well to regulate temperature and prevent condensation buildup.
  • Packed with features that will make your camping experience more enjoyable
  • Can handle extreme weather conditions
  • Attention to detail
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • A bit pricey

How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent

Now that we have taken a look at some of the best backpacking tents on the market, it's time to help you choose the right one for your needs. We will walk you through some of the most important factors to keep in mind as you shop for the perfect backpacking tent.

Package Weight and Dimensions

When backpacking, every ounce counts. That's why it's important to choose a tent that strikes the right balance between weight and space. The last thing you want is to be lugging around a heavy tent, only to find that it doesn't comfortably fit you and your gear. Conversely, you don't want to skimp on space and wind up being cramped and uncomfortable. To find the perfect backpacking tent, pay close attention to the dimensions and weight of the product.

The package weight is the total weight of the tent, poles, fly, and stuff sack. The dimensions are the length, width, and height of the packed tent. Backpacking tents come in a wide range of weights and sizes, so it's important to choose one that will fit your needs. For example, if you're planning on doing a lot of hiking, you'll want a light tent that's easy to carry. On the other hand, if you're car-camping or taking a short hike, you can afford to have a heavier tent. Another thing to consider is the type of camping you'll be doing.

If you're planning on spending most of your time in the backcountry, you'll want a tent that's designed for off-the-grid camping. These tents are typically lighter and have more features that help with moisture management and ventilation. Finally, make sure to choose a tent that's comfortable for you. If you have any special needs or preferences, make sure to choose a tent that accommodates them. While it's important to find a tent that meets all of your needs, you don't want to break the bank in the process. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find an affordable option that checks all the boxes.

Sleeping Capacity

When choosing a backpacking tent, it is important to consider the sleeping capacity. The capacity refers to the maximum number of people that can comfortably sleep in the tent. Tents are typically classified as one-person, two-person, three-person, or four-person. However, these numbers are only a general guide. The actual sleeping capacity of a tent will depend on the size and shape of the interior.

For example, a two-person tent might be comfortable for two people if they are both relatively small. However, if one person is significantly larger than the other, they might feel cramped inside the tent. It is also important to consider how much gear you will need to store inside the tent. If you have a lot of gear, you might need a bigger tent, even if you are only planning to sleep with one or two people. Ultimately, it is important to choose a tent that will be comfortable for all members of your party, and that has enough room to store all of your gear.

When deciding on sleeping capacity, it is important to err on the side of caution and choose a tent that is slightly larger than you need. This will ensure that you have enough space to comfortably sleep and move around inside the tent. It will also help to keep your gear organized and avoid any arguments over who gets the prime spot on the tent floor.

Seasonality and Weather Resistance

When choosing a backpacking tent, it is important to consider the seasonality and weather resistance of the product. Tents are typically categorized by season, with three-season tents being the most versatile. Three-season tents are designed for use in spring, summer, and fall and can typically handle light rain and wind. However, they may not be suitable for use in winter or in areas with high winds and heavy snowfall. If you plan on doing any backpacking in winter or in exposed locations, you will need a four-season tent.

Four-season tents are designed to withstand more extreme conditions, but they are often heavier and more expensive. When choosing a tent, it is also important to consider the weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with mild winters and little precipitation, a three-season tent will likely suffice. However, if you live in an area with heavy snowfall or high winds, you may need a four-season tent.  Ultimately, the best backpacking tent for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By taking the time to carefully consider all of your options, you can be sure to find the perfect tent for your next adventure.

In general, three-season tents are lighter and more ventilated, while four-season tents are heavier and have more robust construction. Additionally, all tents come with a waterproof rating that indicates how well they will hold up in wet conditions. For example, a tent with a waterproof rating of 2000mm will be more weather resistant than a tent with a waterproof rating of 1000mm. When choosing a backpacking tent, be sure to consider the seasons you'll be using it in and the level of weather protection you need.

About THE AUTHOR

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks

I’m a hiker, backpacker, and general outdoor enthusiast. I started hiking out of college while working for the National Forest Service, and have been hiking ever since. I’ve been solo hiking and leading hiking groups for two decades and have completed hundreds of small hikes and some majorones such as the Appalachian Train and the Pacific Crest Trail, and hiked on four continents. I’d love to share some of my insight with you.

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