Best Backpacking Tents

You came to this page because you want me to name the best backpacking tents, right?

OK, here's my answer:

The best ones will keep you warm and dry, are easy to set up, don't weigh a ton (wet OR dry), won't collapse or blow away in a sudden squall, and have high quality essential features along with "comfort" features.

Sounds like a tall order, right?

Let's say you want to go ultralight - hard and fast and unburdened on the trail. I wouldn't sing the praises of a fully loaded tent with all of the bells and whistles - that would waste your time (and probably annoy you).

That's why my information needs to be broken down into categories. My advice on what's "best" will change, depending upon your intended use of the tent.

Makes sense, right? There is no "one size fits all backpackers"!

And be forewarned. If you really get into this backpacking thing, you will acquire more than one tent. A pricey habit, but completely justifiable, in my mind!

And of course we must also consider these common sense variables: "need" -versus- "want" -versus- "can afford" -versus- "can carry for days at a time."

Here's the bottom line when considering best backpacking tents...

Every tent must keep your body and your gear safe, regardless of weather conditions. If it fails that simple little test, put it in the pile with other garage sale items.

In order to perform well for you, your shelter needs functional construction: floor, walls, ceiling, seams, rainfly, poles, stakes, and ground cloth.

So in your purchase decision, you must balance not only the tent's price, but what your money is buying in terms of quality, smart design features, weight, ease of use, and longevity.

Essential factors in selecting the best backpacking tent for your needs:

*BASIC TENT FEATURES: I urge you to take the time to consider each of these, in order to get the best backpacking tent for your needs.

*TENT DESIGNS: Which footprint will give you maximum room for your plans?

*SEASONS AND USAGE: How many times each year, and where, will you be using this as your home away from home?

*WEIGHT: This is a huge consideration for women hikers, especially if you are the person carrying the tent. If you're going solo, this becomes a major consideration in your trip planning.

You owe it to your comfort and safety to spend some time answering the question: "What makes this particular shelter a candidate for my essential gear list?" Check out all of the variables I've outlined for you. You want to be ultra-certain about the best backpacking tent for you, right?

Here's where spreadsheets come into their own.

Maybe it's because of my science background, but I just love to set up a table and enter the data whenever I'm considering a major gear purchase.

Try it! Make a list of my "essential features" down the left hand side, and list at least 3 candidate tents across the top. Fill in the info as you research each tent, and Voila! You have a great little decision making tool.

In fact, I like this idea so much, I'll create a free pdf version for you to use. Check back soon to see when I post it.

Of course, if that seems a little geeky, you can always hold that garage sale for any "clunker" tents you purchase.

But I find that a supremely unsatisfying back up plan.

Your pre-purchase thoroughness will eliminate the need to stand on your lawn with a "For Sale" sign, when you could be backpacking instead!

The features of best backpacking tents are highly individual. Need more gear info? Go HERE.