Top 7 Lightweight Tents for Backpackers in 2025
Backpacking enthusiasts know the importance of having a reliable, lightweight tent that balances durability, comfort, and ease of setup. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a multi-day trek, carrying a tent that is both compact and sturdy can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. As 2025 rolls in, advancements in materials and design have led to some impressive options on the market. Here are the top 7 lightweight tents for backpackers this year.
- HyperLite Mountain Gear Echo II Known for its ultralight build, the HyperLite Mountain Gear Echo II weighs just under 2 pounds. Crafted with high-grade Dyneema Composite Fabric, this two-person tent offers excellent waterproofing and durability. Its simple single-pole design makes it quick to pitch, perfect for those who want to minimize time setting up camp.
Key features:
Weight: ~1.9 lbs (0.86 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)
Setup: Single-pole trekking pole supported
- Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is a favorite among backpackers for its roomy interior and lightweight construction. At just over 3 pounds, it offers a perfect blend of livability and weight savings. It also features two doors and vestibules for easy access and gear storage.
Key features:
Weight: ~3.0 lbs (1.36 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Ripstop nylon with waterproof coating
Setup: Double-wall, freestanding with aluminum poles
- MSR Hubba NX 1 For solo hikers, the MSR Hubba NX 1 provides a great balance of weight, durability, and weather protection. Weighing approximately 2 pounds 7 ounces, this tent is easy to set up and packs down compactly. It features a freestanding design and an ample vestibule for gear.
Key features:
Weight: ~2.4 lbs (1.08 kg)
Capacity: 1-person
Material: Ripstop nylon with waterproof coating
Setup: Freestanding, with aluminum poles
- NEMO Hornet 2P NEMO’s Hornet 2P is designed with weight-conscious backpackers in mind. It weighs just about 2 pounds 6 ounces but still offers a comfortable 2-person space. The tent uses a semi-freestanding design to save weight, and the materials are high quality with excellent weather resistance.
Key features:
Weight: ~2.4 lbs (1.09 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Ripstop nylon with waterproof coating
Setup: Semi-freestanding, trekking pole or tent pole supported
- Zpacks Duplex The Zpacks Duplex is another ultralight option that uses Dyneema Composite Fabric for ultimate durability and waterproofing at a minimal weight. This two-person tent weighs just under 1.5 pounds, making it one of the lightest tents available in 2025. Its trekking pole-supported design is favored by ultralight hikers.
Key features:
Weight: ~1.5 lbs (0.68 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF)
Setup: Trekking pole supported
- Tarptent Double Rainbow The Tarptent Double Rainbow is popular for its balance of weight, price, and livability. It weighs about 2 pounds 10 ounces and is made from silicone-coated nylon for weather resistance. This tent offers two doors and vestibules, making it ideal for two people carrying gear.
Key features:
Weight: ~2.6 lbs (1.17 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Silicone-coated nylon
Setup: Single-wall, trekking pole supported
- REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 2 REI’s Quarter Dome SL 2 is an affordable, lightweight tent that doesn’t compromise on comfort. Weighing about 3 pounds 8 ounces, it has a roomy interior and two doors, making it an excellent choice for backpackers seeking value and quality.
Key features:
Weight: ~3.5 lbs (1.59 kg)
Capacity: 2-person
Material: Ripstop nylon with waterproof coating
Setup: Freestanding with aluminum poles
Conclusion Choosing the right lightweight tent depends on your specific backpacking style, budget, and preferences. For ultralight enthusiasts, options like the HyperLite Echo II and Zpacks Duplex provide incredible weight savings with durable materials. If comfort and extra space are priorities, tents like the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 and REI Quarter Dome SL 2 offer a great balance. Whichever you pick, a quality lightweight tent will enhance your outdoor adventure in 2025.