5 Best Tents for Backpacking in 2023

Choosing the right backpacking tent for your upcoming 2023 adventures can be a daunting process with all the options available. As an outdoor enthusiast like you, I’ve faced that same challenge and have spent countless hours reviewing the latest offerings on the market to decipher which ones stand above the rest.

This article will guide you through our top five picks in various categories such as value, weight, durability, and capacity based on essential factors like comfort, weather resistance and overall weight.

Get ready to gear up for your next backcountry escape with confidence!

Key Takeaways

• The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is the best overall backpacking tent for 2023, offering a lightweight design, spacious interior, and excellent durability.
• The REI Co – op Half Dome SL 2+ provides the best value for money, combining affordability with quality features such as ample storage space and good weather resistance.
• For backpackers prioritizing weight savings, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye is the best lightweight option, offering a compact design and environmental-friendly solution-dyed fabric.
• If you need a durable tent for harsher conditions or winter camping, consider the SlingFin Portal 2 with its four-season rating.

How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent for 2023

When choosing a backpacking tent for 2023, consider factors such as tent weight, capacity and interior space, number of doors, seasonal rating, wall construction, and whether you prefer freestanding or tarp-style tents.

Tent Weight

A tent’s weight matters a lot. You will carry it on your back for long hikes. Heavy tents can make you tired fast. Lighter ones are easier to pack and carry. But, they may not be as strong or warm as heavier tents.

For example, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye is noted for being light yet sturdy.

Capacity and Interior Space

The right tent size is key for a comfy camping trip. Think about how many people will sleep in it. You need space to move and store your backpacking gear inside. Some tents can fit one, two, or three people.

Look at the tent’s interior dimensions too. Can you sit up straight? Is there enough legroom to stretch out? A roomy tent helps you rest better after a long day of hiking. Tents with good headroom allow easy entry and exit as well.

Storage pockets are also vital in a tent’s interior space. They let you keep small items handy and organized. You don’t want to dig through your backpack each time you need something like a flashlight or snacks!

Tent vestibule areas give extra room for gear storage outside yet still protected from weather conditions. Make sure the tent has enough of these special areas!

Number of Doors

Tents come with different numbers of doors. Some have one, some have two. One door tent is common, but it can be hard when more than one person wants to get in or out. Two doors make this easy.

But not all tents tell you how many doors they have. The REI Co-op Arete ASL 2 Tent, Big Agnes Copper Backpacking Tent, NEMO Dagger OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent, REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 Tent and Clostnature Lightweight Backpacking Tent all have just one door.

We don’t know about the rest yet, like the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 or REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+.

Seasonal Rating

When selecting a backpacking tent, it’s important to consider the seasonal rating. This rating indicates the level of protection the tent provides against different weather conditions.

The tents in this list have been tested for their performance in various seasons and weather conditions. The Nemo Dragonfly Osmo 2 and REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ are suitable for three seasons, making them versatile options for most backpacking trips.

If you plan on camping in harsher conditions or during winter, the SlingFin Portal 2 is a durable option with a four-season rating. Whatever your adventure, there’s a tent on this list that will keep you comfortable and protected throughout your backcountry journey.

Wall Construction

When choosing a backpacking tent for your adventures, it’s important to consider the construction of the walls. The wall construction affects factors such as durability, weather resistance, and weight.

Some tents have double-wall construction, which consists of an inner mesh canopy and an outer rainfly. This design provides better ventilation and protection from condensation. On the other hand, single-wall tents are lighter but may be less breathable.

It’s also essential to look at the materials used in the wall construction, such as durable fabrics and sturdy poles. By considering these aspects of wall construction, you can find a tent that suits your needs for comfort, weather resistance, and weight during your backpacking trips.

Freestanding vs Tarp-Style

When choosing a backpacking tent, you’ll come across two main types: freestanding tents and tarp-style tents. Freestanding tents are easy to set up because they have pre-attached poles that create a self-supporting structure.

They offer more stability and can be pitched on different terrains. On the other hand, tarp-style tents rely on trekking poles or trees for support, so they require more effort to set up.

These lightweight options are great for minimalist backpackers looking to reduce their pack weight. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages, so consider your preferences and needs when deciding which one is right for you.

Best Overall: NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2

The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is the best overall backpacking tent for 2023. It features a lightweight design, spacious interior, and excellent durability. The tent’s freestanding structure makes it easy to set up, while its dual-tone mesh allows for stargazing on clear nights.

With its impressive combination of comfort, weather resistance, and value for money, the NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is the top choice for backpackers seeking a reliable and versatile shelter on their outdoor adventures.

Features & Description (NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2)

The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is an exceptional backpacking tent that offers a range of impressive features. It has a trapezoidal fly geometry and easy tensioning, which makes it highly weather-resistant.

This means that you can stay dry and protected even in challenging conditions.

One unique feature of the NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is its “Landing Zone,” which provides ample space for keeping your gear off the ground. This helps to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible while maximizing interior space.

The tent itself is praised for its durability and high-quality construction, ensuring that it will withstand the demands of backcountry adventures.

In addition to its impressive performance, the NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is also known for its comfort and lightweight design. Its livability features, such as interior dimensions, ventilation, and storage pockets, make it a comfortable shelter for extended trips.

And weighing just a few pounds, it won’t weigh you down on long hikes.

Pros & Cons (NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2)

The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is the best overall tent for backpacking in 2023. Here are the pros and cons of this tent:

• Lightweight design makes it easy to carry on backpacking trips.
• Spacious interior provides enough room for two people and their gear.
• Two doors allow for easy entry and exit without disturbing your camping partner.
• Three – season rating ensures durability and performance in various weather conditions.
• Freestanding design allows for easy setup and versatility in campsite selection.

• Higher price point compared to some other backpacking tents.
• Limited headroom may be a downside for taller individuals.
• Some users have reported issues with condensation buildup inside the tent.

Best Value: REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+

The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is our top pick for the best value backpacking tent in 2023.

Features & Description (REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+)

The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is the Best Buy in our review of backpacking tents. It offers a great combination of affordability, quality, and features. This two-person tent is perfect for your backpacking adventures.

It has a spacious interior with enough room for two people to sleep comfortably. The large vestibules provide ample storage space for your gear. One notable feature of this tent is its lightweight design, making it easier to carry during your trips.

It also provides good weather resistance, keeping you dry and protected from the elements. Overall, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is a reliable and affordable option for your outdoor adventures.

Pros & Cons (REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+)

The REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ has its pros and cons. Here they are:

• Spacious: It has a floor area of 32.9 sq. ft., providing enough space for two people.
• Affordable: This tent offers great value for its price. making it a budget-friendly option.
• Livable: It features two vestibules with 8.7 sq. ft. each. offering additional storage space for gear.
• Ventilation: The adjustable vents help minimize condensation, while the large window allows for airflow and natural light.
• Sturdy: This tent has been tested to withstand winds up to 30 mph. ensuring its durability and reliability.
• Weight: Compared to other lightweight options, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is slightly heavier, weighing in at [INSERT WEIGHT HERE].

Best Lightweight Option: Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye is the best lightweight option for backpacking in 2023.

Features & Description (Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye)

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye is a lightweight backpacking tent that offers great features for outdoor adventures. It has a compact design with enough headroom to sit up comfortably.

The tent comes with double doors, which makes it easy to get in and out of the tent, as well as allowing good airflow for ventilation.

One notable feature of this tent is its solution-dyed fabric, which is environmentally-friendly and provides long-lasting colorfastness. The Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye is also semi-freestanding, meaning it may require guylines to secure the fly properly.

This tent has received praise for its durability and weather resistance. It can withstand various conditions while keeping you dry and protected inside. Additionally, it’s known for being lightweight, making it ideal for backpackers who prioritize weight savings.

Pros & Cons (Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye)

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye has its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

• Spacious interior with a floor area of 28 sq. ft., providing enough room for two people
• Lightweight design, weighing only 2 lbs. 4 oz., making it easy to carry on backpacking trips
• Quick and easy setup with a two – pole system
• Features two doors for convenient entry and exit without disturbing your partner
• Offers good ventilation with mesh walls and kickstand vents, keeping you cool during warm nights
• Weather – resistant rainfly provides protection from rain and wind

• Limited vestibule space compared to other models, which may affect storage options for gear
• The lightweight construction may sacrifice some durability compared to heavier tents
• Tall campers may find the peak height of 39 inches a bit low, causing them to feel slightly cramped inside

Best Durability: SlingFin Portal 2

The SlingFin Portal 2 is the top choice for durability among backpacking tents in 2023.

Features & Description (SlingFin Portal 2)

The SlingFin Portal 2 is an exceptional backpacking tent known for its lightweight design and impressive durability. It has a unique feature of having a second set of zipper pulls on each door, which comes in handy if the main ones break.

The trapezoidal fly geometry and easy tensioning make this tent highly weather-resistant, ensuring protection from harsh elements during your outdoor adventures. With its top-rated performance, the SlingFin Portal 2 is a reliable option for backpackers looking for a durable and lightweight shelter.

Pros & Cons (SlingFin Portal 2)

I really love the SlingFin Portal 2 because it combines lightweight design with durability. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

• It’s incredibly lightweight, which is perfect for backpacking trips when every ounce counts.
• The tent is constructed with high – quality materials that can withstand rugged conditions.
• It offers ample interior space for two people, with enough headroom to sit up comfortably.
• The tent is easy to set up, thanks to its intuitive design and color – coded poles.
• It has excellent weather resistance, keeping you dry even in heavy rain or wind.

• The tent can be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
• Some users have reported that the zippers can be a bit finicky and may require extra care.
• While the tent is designed for two people, it may feel a bit cramped if you prefer more space.

Best for Three Persons: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is the perfect backpacking tent for a group of three people, providing ample space and comfort while still being lightweight and durable.

Features & Description (Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3)

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is an excellent choice for backpackers who want a spacious and reliable tent for three people. This tent has received accolades, including being named the best three-person backpacking tent in the 5 Best Tents for Backpacking in 2023 article.

It has also won the REI Co-op Editors’ Choice Award, making it highly recommended by experts.

With a floor area of 41 square feet and two vestibules measuring 9 square feet each, there is plenty of space to comfortably sleep and store gear. The peak height of 44 inches allows for easy movement inside the tent, while the two doors provide convenient entry and exit points.

Its high-volume architecture ensures ample headroom and livability.

Pros & Cons (Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3)

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 has its ups and downs. Here are the pros and cons:

1. Spacious: The tent offers ample space for three people, making it comfortable during backpacking trips.
2. Lightweight: It is designed to be lightweight, making it easy to carry on backcountry adventures.
3. Durable: The tent is built to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance.
4. Easy Setup: It features a color-coded system, allowing for quick and hassle-free setup.
5. Ventilation: The tent provides good airflow, keeping the interior cool and preventing condensation.

1. Price: It may be a bit expensive compared to other backpacking tents in its category.
2. Size: Some users might find it too large for solo or two-person trips.

How We Test Backpacking Tents

I test backpacking tents to help you choose the best one for your adventures. I have been conducting tests and research on these tents for more than 12 years. To evaluate them, we consider important factors like comfort, weather resistance, and weight.

We also look at the materials used and provide detailed specifications for each tent, including its weight and dimensions. Additionally, we list the pros and cons of each tent so that you can make an informed decision based on your needs.

Our goal is to provide you with reliable information to find the perfect backpacking tent for your backcountry adventures.

Conclusion

After thorough research and testing, we have compiled the 5 best backpacking tents for 2023. The NEMO Dragonfly Osmo 2 is our top pick, offering a great balance of comfort and durability.

If you’re looking for value, the REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ is an excellent choice. For those seeking a lightweight option, the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Solution Dye won’t disappoint.

The SlingFin Portal 2 shines with its exceptional durability. Lastly, if you need a tent for three people, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is your go-to option. Happy backpacking in 2023!

FAQs

1. What factors should I consider when choosing a backpacking tent?

When choosing a backpacking tent, you should consider the weight, size, weather resistance, durability, and ease of setup.

2. Are these tents suitable for solo backpackers or groups?

These tents are suitable for both solo backpackers and small groups as they come in different sizes to accommodate various numbers of people.

3. Can these tents withstand harsh weather conditions?

Yes, these tents are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain and wind. They have sturdy poles and waterproof materials to keep you dry and protected.

4. Are these tents easy to carry while backpacking?

Yes, these tents are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry while backpacking. They are designed with backpackers in mind for convenient transportation.