The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (2024)

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By: Jack Mace: Camp Buyer | May 10, 2023

Backpacking is one of those pastimes everyone has at least had a brush with. Maybe it was a formative trip as a child, perhaps it’s just something you’ve always aspired to do, or maybe you had an awful time once and are looking for redemption. Regardless, there’s something special about carrying everything you need to survive into the woods and setting up camp. But even on a backpacking trip, a sense of home is still important, and that’s where your backpacking tent comes in. It’s more than just a place to lay your head at night; it’s your home base, your only protection from the elements, and your one constant through campsite after campsite. So it’s worth investing in a good one.

New This Year:

Every one of the best backpacking tents on this list is a “good one.” But each earns that distinction for a different reason. That’s important since all of us experience backpacking differently. Some folks are looking for maximum size and comfort and don’t mind carrying a little extra weight. Others are trying to move as fast and light as possible. And still, others are bringing all their gear on a bike, changing their backpacking to bikepacking. Regardless of your objectives, there’s a tent for you to choosefrom on this list. So read on and prepare to spend the night in the woods.

This Year's Best Backpacking Tents:

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL

Nemo Dragonfly 3P

The North Face Stormbreak

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Bikepack

Mountain Hardwear Aspect 3

Nemo Aurora 2

MSR Elixir 3

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1

The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (1)

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL

This longtime staple ultralight tent just got a facelift with a rad new redesign. Or maybe a wing lift? All sizes of the Copper Spur now come with sweet customization vestibule awnings. The dual door awnings on the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Tent make it look like a ladybug taking flight when both awnings are up (we like to think of this as the fun in the sun mode). But it still features the good old fashion single stake vestibule setup (batten down the hatches mode) or the mesh top exposed (starry night mode). Besides the new front porch options and a nifty new corner buckle system for a more straightforward setup, the Copper Spur is the same gem of ultralight toughness it's always been.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
2 or 3 person2.68 or 3.5$549.95 - $599.95

Shop 3-PersonShop 2-Person

The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (2)

Nemo Dragonfly 3P

The Nemo Dragonfly 3-Person Tent is a great backpacking tent for adventurous buddies. The lightweight build makes it easy to carry, yet it's spacious enough for a comfortable living space once you reach camp. Plus, the Divvy sack makes it easy to split the load on the way up.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
3 person3.5$529.95

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The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (3)

The North Face Stormbreak

Missing that one friend who’s always down for a spontaneous adventure, no questions asked? Well, here’s the tent version you can always rely on. With abundant headroom, multi-configuration vestibules, and optimal airflow that prioritizes comfort, you can curl up after that evening campfire jam sesh and clock in a great night’s sleep. With an easy-pitch design, The North Face Stormbreak Tent is the backbone of outdoor explorations for years to come. No need to stress about unexpected weather or rough terrain with the fully taped canopy and floor seams, you’ll be comfy and cozy in any climate. So toss ‘er in the trunk and hit the road!

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
2 or 3 person5.875 or 6.375$184.95 - $219.95

Shop 3-PersonShop 2-Person

The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (4)

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Bikepack

With a weight and feature set that would make a long-distance through-hiker smile, plus a Shortstik Pole set that folds down small enough to fit onto your handlebars, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2-Person Bikepack Tent is everything you could ask for in a bikepacking tent. The two-person size is a perfect compromise that gives you a roomy solo palace without much extra weight or a comfortable space to share with a partner. It sets up easily, has a unique and versatile vestibule system, and comes with tons of loops and pockets to stash your gear. So saddle up and head for the hills.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
2 person3.5$599.95

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The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (5)

Mountain Hardwear Aspect

Better plan your next backpacking mission because the Mountain Hardwear Aspect™ 3-Person Tent is itching to take you there. Offering robust 3-season protection in a lightweight package with plenty of space for your best buds and your gear, the Aspect™ 3 is ready to travel fast and light to whatever far-flung destinations you have in mind. Get some!

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
3 person3.67$579.99

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The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (6)

Nemo Aurora

The Nemo Aurora 2-Person Tent & Footprint is a sturdy and lightweight tent ideally suited for quick setup camping trips and spontaneous weekend adventures. It's made of durable high-denier polyester with an included footprint and high arching design that emphasizes longevity and interior space. At only four and a half pounds, however, it's still light enough to load into your backpack or panniers for use as an on-the-go shelter.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
2 person4.58$299.95

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The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (7)

MSR Elixir 3-Person

The MSR Elixir 3-Person Tent is sized for that most perfect of outdoor crews: just the two of you and the dog. Made for long weekends and mellower backpacking trips, it's got everything you need to keep your trio comfortable in camp. It compacts small enough to pack reasonably and is straightforward to set up. Two spacious vestibules and a couple of large doors make it feel even bigger than it is, and it's constructed to survive a monsoon. As a group hike fortress or a larger car camping HQ, the Elixir 3 is hard to beat.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
3 person7.06$379.95

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The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (8)

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1 - Solution Dye

Help the environment with your extra cool and durable Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 1-Person Solution Dye Tent. Designed for people looking for an ultralight shelter, this tent is made with solution-dyed nylon ripstop that uses 80% fewer chemicals than other dyes. Coming in at just over 2 pounds, this techy tent still features plenty of internal storage, including cord routing for your fave devices. And Ultra light poles make the decision to bring your rain fly a no brano-brainer in the desert.

CapacityWeight (lbs.)Original Price
1 person2$399.95

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Learn More With Our Other Camping Guides:

  • Sleeping Bags - How to Choose a Sleeping Bag
  • Sleeping Bags - How to Wash a Sleeping Bag
  • Tents - How to Choose a Tent for Camping
  • Stoves - How to Choose a Camping Stove
  • Sleeping Pads - How to Choose a Sleeping Pad
  • What to Pack for a Day Hike

Learn About Some of Our Favorite Gear:

  • The Best Sleeping Bags
  • The Best Sleeping Pads
  • The Best Camping Tents
  • The Best Backpacking Tents
  • The Best Camping Stoves
  • The Best Camping Hammocks
  • The Best Camping Coffee Makers
  • The Best Camping Chairs
  • The Best Camping Coolers
  • The Best Camping Accessories
  • The Best Camping Cookware
  • The Best Headlamps Camping Blankets
  • The Best Daypacks
  • The Best Duffel Bags

The Selection Process:

Our camp buyer has an endless amount of knowledge on all things camping stemming from years of experience in the outdoor industry in tandem with their countless hours out on the trail and hanging at the campsite. evo's buyers assess all products coming to market, lean intothis knowledge, and put together this selection ofthe best products. They have a unique perspective as they truly see everything offered across the category.

The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (9)

Jack Mace

Hey there! My name is Jack Mace, and I am the camp buyer for evo. I grew up in Washington and spent most of my childhood summers on the water or in the mountains, which drove my passion for fun activities such as camping. I attended Western Washington University in Bellingham, which provides plenty of excellent camping locations, such as Larrabee State Park or Silver Lake. Then, I moved back to the Seattle area and worked as a sailing instructor for several years at my cousin’s rental shop on Lake Union before joining the evo family in 2012.

At evo, I started on the customer service team and worked my way onto the merchandising team, which gave me the opportunity to integrate my passion and love for the outdoors into a career as the Camp Buyer. I still reside in the Seattle area with my wife, Katie, and two sons, Wes and Carter.

The 8 Best Backpacking Tents of 2023 (2024)

FAQs

What is the new tent for MSR 2024? ›

The Hubba Hubba Bikepack

Now known simply as the Hubba Hubba 1, 2 and 3 (the 4-person is no longer), 2024 brings the introduction of the Hubba Hubba 1 and 2 Bikepacking tents.

What is a good weight for a 2 person backpacking tent? ›

Generally speaking, a tent should weigh approximately 2.5 pounds per person. Remember that when backpacking with multiple people, you can split the weight by dividing the tent, rain fly, and poles.

How do I find the perfect tent? ›

Buying a tent? 10 handy tips to help you make the best purchase
  1. Consider the number of people using the tent. ...
  2. Think about the conditions of use. ...
  3. Consider ease of use. ...
  4. Make note of the tent's material. ...
  5. Consider the weight of your tent. ...
  6. Think about the tent's ventilation. ...
  7. Be aware of additional features.

What does "three season tent" mean? ›

A 3 season tent is designed for Spring, Summer, and Autumn. They are typically not suitable for use in extreme winter weather, as they are made to be well-ventilated and light. This is due to the majority of the inner tent being made from lightweight mesh, in order to increase breathability in warmer conditions.

What tent does the US military use? ›

The TCOP is a unique Eureka! designed tent produced for the U.S. Military. This individual shelter incorporates all of the important features requested by personnel in the field – dry, tough and fast by design.

Should I waterproof my MSR tent? ›

All MSR tents feature waterproof protection, but prolonged exposure to moisture can cause hydrolysis—the premature break down of the waterproof coating—in even the most waterproof tents.

What is the difference between a camping tent and a backpacking tent? ›

Camping Tent vs Backpacking Tent

Camping tents are designed for larger groups, offering spaciousness and comfort. On the other hand, backpacking tents prioritize portability, durability, and weather resistance, making them ideal for solo or small-group adventures.

What is the most popular tent size? ›

Most Popular Tent Sizes
  • Most Popular Tent Sizes.
  • 20x40.
  • 20x60.
  • 30x30.
Jan 29, 2024

What is the most efficient tent shape? ›

Dome-style tents offer superior strength and wind-shedding abilities, both of which you'll appreciate on a stormy night. They stand tall in the center, but their walls have more of a slope which slightly reduces livable space.

What is a 4th season tent? ›

At the most basic level, a 4-season (or winter) tent is designed to withstand extreme weather, holding up to fierce winds and heavy snow loads. A 3-season (or backpacking) tent is designed for lightweight performance and breathability.

What is a 5 season tent? ›

Expeditions or five-season tents are those made to withstand extreme mountain and snow conditions.

How many years should a tent last? ›

A well-looked-after family tent should last you at least 5 years of regular use, but this can vary depending on the weather conditions it's been used in, how frequently it has been used, and how well you care for it. Make sure you follow the instructions carefully when setting up and taking down your tent.

What tent does Ray Mears use? ›

Ray Mears has done more than anyone in recent times to promote the benefits of Getting Out & Staying Out, and particularly he has shown himself a great believer in the open-to-your-surroundings nature of the Campfire Tent or Baker Tent.

Are MSR tent stakes worth it? ›

These are absolutely worth the money. They're also lightweight! Because of the deal i was hesitant that these were genuine MSR groundhogs, but i got in contact with MSR and sent them pictures and they confirmed that they are indeed authentic. So no worries about cheap knockoffs, these are the real deal :D.

Is MSR Elixir 2 a 4 season tent? ›

The MSR® Elixir 2 Tent is an extremely liveable 3 season, 2-man performance backpacking tent and an ideal option for backpackers seeking an easy-to-assemble tent at a great value.

What do MSR tents stand for? ›

Mountain Safety Research, or MSR, is a producer of camping, hiking and mountaineering equipment, such as portable stoves, water filters, snowshoes, and tents. While specializing in lightweight and technical equipment, MSR's gear is designed for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts from novice to expert mountaineers.

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