9 Best Budget Backpacking Tents in 2023 (Starting at $100)
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Backpacking tents became a rage when “carrying an extra load” became a big no for adventurous hikers and trekkers. Backpacking Tents were perfect! They were lightweight, compact, easy to carry & an instant home away from home (especially in remote locations). All you needed was to rent a pop-up camper, load your camping essentials and drive away. But the money part makes every backpacker rethink their choice of tent and reevaluate their purchase decisions.
Just when you have convinced yourself that comfort has an upper edge over money spent, you realize that after the first few uses, the new hiking tent has a hole in the footprint AND your bank! Changing your backpacking tent over a torn footprint, mold, lack of sturdiness, or sizing problems is a big RED flag!
Settling for less can be a real letdown, especially for avid backpackers who need outdoor gear built to withstand the rugged outdoors.
That’s exactly why we put together the ultimate guide to the “9 Best Budget Backpacking Tents in 2023”. We have the best list, starting with less than $100 to a maximum of $399.
These top-notch options – with three choices each for solo travelers, couples, and groups – ensure your next outdoor adventure is one of durability, comfort, and budget-friendly sensibility.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Budget Backpacking Tent
It’s best to check specific factors before buying a backpacking tent, such as:
Best Budget Backpacking Tents for Solo Travelers
1. ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent (Top Pick)
The Alps Mountaineering Zephyr is our Top Pick for the best budget backpacking tent for solo travelers because the tent’s performance has been exceptional, even enduring prolonged rain without compromising interior dryness.
The shock-corded tent poles enable swift assembly, and the addition of the recommended footprint enhances its durability. With unmatched functionality and quality at a fraction of the cost, the Alps Zephyr stands tall as a budget-friendly yet remarkably capable solo backpacking tent.
Product Highlights
The Zephyr Tent offers a lightweight and efficient solution for solo camping adventures. Its user-friendly setup, durable construction, and thoughtful features make it a reliable companion in the great outdoors.
Cost: $149.99
What We Like
This tent’s ingenious combination of a screen tent with a rain fly is a standout feature, catering to both stargazing enthusiasts and those seeking rain protection in the deep backcountry.
What We Don’t Like
The net construction, while seemingly ideal for desert trips, can pose a slight visibility problem. But who needs scenic views once inside the tent, right? Ultimately, it’s worth noting that if we ignore these issues, the tent is an excellent choice.
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2. Durston X-Mid 1P Ultralight Backpacking Tent
The Durston X-Mid 1P Ultralight Backpacking Tent is a cutting-edge shelter designed for solo adventurers seeking an optimal balance between weight, functionality, and durability. These lightweight tents offer a versatile solution for backpacking journeys.
Product Highlights
The patented geometry makes it super stormworthy, spacious, and easy to set up. Despite weighing just 35 ounces (1005 grams), it provides more space and protection than any other tent in its weight class. It has gained huge popularity on tough trails and has received top awards from Backpacking Light and Section Hiker.
Cost: $240
What We Like
We’re impressed by the “exceptionally high quality” of the tent and the outstanding field performance it delivers. The dual entry points on each side were a big plus for us. It meets our criteria for being the lightest tent that uses trekking poles and has covered vestibules.
What We Don’t Like
The tent stakes and Shepard’s hooks seem too thin and fragile. It is very easy to set up, but it would be helpful if manufacturers demonstrated a typical setup for a backcountry scenario, aiding users in understanding how their kits may fit.
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3. REI Co-op Passage 1
Founded in 1938, Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) is a renowned outdoor co-op that fosters a deep connection with nature. Committed to encouraging a love for the outdoors, REI offers premium gear, expert advice, and outdoor experiences.
Product Highlights
The REI Co-op Passage 1 Tent is a versatile and dependable 3-season backpacking companion. With a solid foundation of a 7000 series aluminum pole set and an intelligently designed twin stake-out vestibule, this tent maximizes space and usability. Passage 1 offers an array of features that cater to comfort, weather protection, and ease of use.
Cost: $159
What We Like
The tent offers a spacious vestibule for gear storage, easy setup with color coding and quick-attachment clips, and fully adjustable high-level vents that reduce condensation. Setting up and taking down the tent is notably straightforward and convenient, even in challenging weather conditions.
The tent’s robustness is commendable, as it has proven to withstand strong wind gusts without collapsing.
What We Don’t Like
We found the tent to be a bit bulky for backpacking, which could potentially pose challenges for efficient packing. Some additional stakes were necessary to properly tension the guy lines, which we consider a minor inconvenience. Please note that the REI Passage 1 Footprint to protect the tent floor is sold separately.
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Best Budget Backpacking Tents for Couples/ Two
1. BISINNA 2 Person Camping Tent (Top Pick)
Our standout choice for two person tents is the BISINNA. This tent has earned itself the Best Buy award in the sub-$100 category. Though it is a cheap backpacking tent, it’s a fantastic choice for those occasional overnight stays when you want comfort and protection without breaking the bank.
This tent brings unbeatable durability and its roomy design suits couples, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience. Thanks to easy setup and excellent ventilation, it’s the ultimate partner for your outdoor escapades.
Product Highlights
BISINNA 2 Person Camping Tent is a rugged outdoor buddy designed to withstand the elements. Crafted with top-notch materials, this tent is built to last. Setting it up is a breeze, and it packs down compactly for easy transport. Plus, with a satisfaction guarantee, you’re in for worry-free exploration!
Cost: 68.99
What We Like
We appreciate the spacious interior that accommodates two people comfortably, along with the double-layered design that promotes ventilation. The easy setup with free-standing, lightweight aluminum poles allows for quick pitching, and the compact weight and packed size ensure convenient portability.
What We Don’t Like
The small circular door design may be limiting for some users, and the tent’s height and length might pose challenges for taller individuals.
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2. REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 Plus 2
The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 Plus 2 is two person tent that strikes the perfect balance between features and weight. With a price tag of $329, it’s a solid investment for outdoor enthusiasts.
It has a super light construction that maintains a minimum trail weight of 3 lbs. 15 oz., making it a reliable choice for 3-season use without compromising on the beloved Half Dome features.
Product Highlights
The 2+ size floor plan offers more room for you, your adventure buddy, and your gear. Pre-bent poles add space and those vertical tent walls give generous headroom. Mesh panels boost ventilation, while ripstop panels provide privacy and protection from dust and dirt.
Cost: $329
What We Like
REI’s exclusive tension-truss architecture means stable vertical sidewalls, maximizing interior space. The large D-shaped doors offer easy access, and the hubbed pole assembly simplifies setup.
Roll-up options for the fly let you maximize views and airflow. And the two closable ceiling vents prevent condensation buildup.
What We Don’t Like
While it’s a fantastic balance between weight savings and features, some might find it not as ultralight as other options on the market. But considering the features you’re getting, it’s a worthy trade-off.
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3. REI Co-op Trail Hut 2
The REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 is an exceptional camping companion that redefines the notion of value in the great outdoors. Priced at just $79.95, the Trail Hut 2 combines affordability, and ingenuity, allowing both seasoned adventurers and newcomers to access a quality backpacking tent without compromising on performance.
Product Highlights
The REI Trail Hut 2 is designed with a freestanding dome architecture and equal-length poles, making it a breeze for experienced campers to set up. The ridge pole supports door walls, offering extra living space.
It has two doors shaped like “D”, which provide convenient entry and exit for two people. Plus, two vestibules keep gear protected from the elements.
Cost: $79.95
What We Like
We’re particularly impressed by the Trail Hut 2’s spacious interior, which accommodates a 2+ size floor plan. This layout not only comfortably shelters two individuals but also allows for the inclusion of essential camping gear. The addition of interior pockets and gear loops enhances organization and convenience during camping trips.
What We Don’t Like
While the Trail Hut 2 excels in affordability and functionality, its weight might pose limitations for extensive backpacking trips, making it better suited for car camping or shorter excursions.
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Best Budget Backpacking Tents for Families & Groups
1. Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tents (Top Pick)
The Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent has earned its position as the top pick for group backpacking excursions. With spacious floor dimensions of 7’3” x 7’8” and a generous center height of 4’7”, this tent comfortably accommodates up to 4 people, making it the ultimate choice for group outings.
What sets this tent apart is its thoughtful design that marries roominess with efficiency. The vestibules on both sides provide ample space for gear storage or even your furry companion, ensuring a clutter-free interior. Weighing just 7.4 lbs, and at a very low price, it is the best budget tent in its category.
Product Highlights
The Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent is a versatile and spacious solution for your outdoor adventures. What sets this tent apart is the combination of high-quality materials and affordability, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cost: $104.99
What We Like
We appreciate the thoughtful design that balances spaciousness and weight, making it suitable for backpacking without sacrificing comfort. The combination of durable materials and factory-sealed seams gives us confidence in its weather resistance.
The inclusion of essential components such as the storage pockets bag, inner tent, flysheet, aluminum poles, and more, ensures a hassle-free setup and usage experience.
What We Don’t Like
While this tent offers ample room for up to four people, it’s important to note that for backpacking purposes, its weight may be a consideration for solo travelers aiming for an ultralight tent.
Additionally, the tent’s size and features may make it more suitable for fair weather camping rather than extreme conditions.
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2. The North Face Talus 4
Looking for a spacious and reliable camping tent to accommodate your group of four? Look no further – The North Face Lightweight 4-Person Tent is the perfect solution. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and quality, this tent is your top choice for group camping adventures.
Product Highlights
With features designed to enhance your camping experience, this tent stands out from the rest. The inclusion of a gear loft and ground tarp adds a touch of convenience to your setup. The utilization of DAC Featherlight NSL poles ensures lightweight durability, while the high-low ventilation system improves breathability within the tent.
The maximized interior space provides a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.
Cost: $298.95
What We Like
Major thumbs up for convenience and keeping your stuff off the damp ground. And those DAC Featherlight NSL poles? They’re like the goldilocks of camping gear – just the right mix of sturdy and lightweight.
But what sets this tent apart is its high-low ventilation system. Plus, with a maximized interior space, you won’t be playing human Tetris inside your tent. It’s like a mini cabin you can pack up and take anywhere.
What We Don’t Like
While the fly design is best for weather protection, it might not be the best at keeping things breezy, which can lead to condensation issues if you’re camping in moist conditions.
Despite these minor hiccups, The North Face delivered a top-notch 4-person tent that’s spacious, lightweight, and ready to elevate your outdoor escapades.
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3. Marmot Tungsten 4p with Footprint
We’ve got a real contender in the tent world – the Marmot Tungsten 4P Tent – the one that’s snagged the spotlight as the ultimate shelter for group adventurers. It’s like your very own portable fortress. Designed to elevate your group camping adventures, the Tungsten 4P Tent delivers exceptional space, durability, and convenience.
Product Highlights:
With its expansive 52.7 square feet of floor area and peak height of 43.31 inches, this tent provides unmatched space and comfort for your camping party. Its aluminum pole structure and snap closure system make for a hassle-free setup. The inclusion of a lampshade pocket, interior pockets, and a footprint enhances its practicality.
Cost: $399
What We Like
Here’s the good stuff – the real reasons we’re head over heels for the Marmot Tungsten 4P Tent. First off, that lampshade pocket? It’s a stroke of genius, keeping your headlamp safely stowed while providing ambient light.
The “easy pitch” clips, poles, and fly-in color-coded glory make setup a breeze, even for the camping novices among us. And let’s not forget the footprint that’s thrown in – it’s like getting extra value on your already awesome purchase.
What We Don’t Like
The zippers may be a tad flimsy, but with a little care, they’ll hold up just fine. And while the interior is roomy, keep in mind it’s designed for two-plus gear or a snug 3/4-person fit.
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Which Backpacking Tents Should You Pick?
The Best thing about most budget backpacking tents is that when you go on hiking or kayak adventures, there’s no need to worry about pitching your tent in an uncomfortable location or spending hours trying to find the perfect spot. Just grab your shelter and head off!
Selecting the perfect backpacking tent depends on your needs. The ALPS Zephyr 1 offers affordability for solo adventurers, while the Durston X-Mid 1P suits ultralight hikers.
Couples can opt for the BISINNA 2 for value or REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2 Plus 2 for comfort. Groups might prefer The North Face Talus 4 or Marmot Tungsten 4p. Your choice should match the group size, budget, and camping style.
If you still feel spoilt for choice, ask yourself, “What do I need this tent for?”, and you have your decision.
Author: Varsha & Adi
Living amidst Bali’s tropical paradise, Varsha & Adi are dedicated full-time travel bloggers driven by a passion for all things tropical. Their objective is to empower like-minded nature enthusiasts to chase their dreams. Through their insightful advice and captivating stories, they act as companions, igniting a desire for unforgettable tropical escapades.
