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10 Best 1 Man Backpacking Tent 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

camppal 1 Person Tent for Camping Hiking Mountain Hunting Backpacking Tents 4 Season Resistance to Windproof Rainproof and Waterproof

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,216
Weight
Space and Comfort
Ease of Setup

Most important from
971 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to carry, although not ultra-lightweight, the trade-off is its impressive durability.
Space and Comfort
Fits tall people comfortably; a 6'4" user can sleep with their pack at the head of their sleeping pad.
Ease of Setup
Fast to set up with its single-pole design, making it convenient for quick setups.
Durability
Highly durable; it has held up phenomenally well in rocky mountains and desert sands with no signs of punctures or tears after over a year of use.
Ventilation
Not ideal for windy climates; sand and dust can blow in from underneath the tarp.
Weather Resistance
This tent is fully waterproof, even when placed in low ground with an inch of water outside, none of it seeped in.

The camppal 1 Person Tent is a strong contender for those looking to backpack and need a reliable shelter. Weighing just 3.75 lbs, it is lightweight and easy to carry, which is crucial for backpackers. The tent's dimensions (L8.2ft x W2.95ft x H2.95ft) offer enough space for a single person and their gear, making it comfortable even for taller individuals. Setting up this tent is a breeze, taking only about 3 minutes, which is great for quick setups in various conditions.

The tent is highly durable with its fire-retardant and rip-stop fabric, and strong aluminum poles, which means it can withstand rough weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, thanks to its impressive 3500-4000mm water resistance rating. Ventilation might not be its strongest point, but the tent seems well-equipped to handle four-season usage, making it versatile for different climates. It includes a rainfly, which adds to its weather resistance, and the stakes and poles provided are of good quality. The only potential drawback could be its ventilation during hot weather, as it might not provide as much airflow as some other tents. However, the tent comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its product. This tent suits those who prioritize weight, durability, and weather resistance for solo backpacking adventures.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,216
Weight
Space and Comfort
Ease of Setup

Most important from
971 reviews

Weight
Lightweight and easy to carry, although not ultra-lightweight, the trade-off is its impressive durability.
Space and Comfort
Fits tall people comfortably; a 6'4" user can sleep with their pack at the head of their sleeping pad.
Ease of Setup
Fast to set up with its single-pole design, making it convenient for quick setups.
Durability
Highly durable; it has held up phenomenally well in rocky mountains and desert sands with no signs of punctures or tears after over a year of use.
Ventilation
Not ideal for windy climates; sand and dust can blow in from underneath the tarp.
Weather Resistance
This tent is fully waterproof, even when placed in low ground with an inch of water outside, none of it seeped in.
#2

Night Cat Backpacking Tent for One 1 to 2 Persons Lightweight Waterproof Camping Hiking Tent for Adults Kids Scouts Easy Setup Single Layer 2.2x1.2m

Rating
9.6
Weight
Space and Comfort
Ease of Setup

Most important from
3435 reviews

Weight
This tent is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry on hikes, yet it offers enough space for one or two people comfortably.
Space and Comfort
This tent is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry on hikes, yet it offers enough space for one or two people comfortably.
Ease of Setup
Setup was a breeze—took just a few minutes even in low light.
Durability
The stakes included are basically worthless if you're not camping in fresh grass, and they will bend way too easily.
Ventilation
Ventilation is decent, minimizing condensation without letting in too much cold air.
Weather Resistance
The waterproof material kept me dry during light rain, and I felt secure inside.

The Night Cat Backpacking Tent is a lightweight and compact tent, weighing 4.4 pounds (2 kg), making it ideal for solo backpackers who need to travel light. It is designed as a 4-season tent, meaning it should be suitable for use all year round, including in more challenging weather conditions. The tent offers a good amount of space for one person, with dimensions of 7.0 x 3.8 x 3.6 feet, and enough room to store personal belongings like a backpack and clothing. While it claims to fit one adult and one child, it may be a tight squeeze for two adults.

Its ease of setup is notable, with the tent being able to be pitched in 1-2 minutes using the included fiberglass poles, which are covered to protect hands during assembly. However, the single layer design might not provide as much insulation or protection in extremely cold weather compared to double-layer tents. The tent is rated with a PU 3000mm water resistance level, and it includes features like rainproof polyester fabric and sealed seams to keep you dry during heavy rain. Ventilation is enhanced by a large mesh door and a mesh window on the roof, which help to maintain airflow and reduce condensation.

The single door design may limit easy access and egress. Durability seems reliable with the use of fiberglass poles and oxford fabric for the floor, but some users might find fiberglass poles less durable compared to aluminum. This tent could be a great option for solo adventurers looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-set-up, and weather-resistant tent, though it might not be the best choice for those needing more space or higher durability poles.

Rating
9.6
Weight
Space and Comfort
Ease of Setup

Most important from
3435 reviews

Weight
This tent is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry on hikes, yet it offers enough space for one or two people comfortably.
Space and Comfort
This tent is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry on hikes, yet it offers enough space for one or two people comfortably.
Ease of Setup
Setup was a breeze—took just a few minutes even in low light.
Durability
The stakes included are basically worthless if you're not camping in fresh grass, and they will bend way too easily.
Ventilation
Ventilation is decent, minimizing condensation without letting in too much cold air.
Weather Resistance
The waterproof material kept me dry during light rain, and I felt secure inside.
#3

Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent: 1 Person Tent Waterproof Instant Easy Setup Outdoor Tent

Rating
9.4
Weight
Ease of Setup
Ventilation

Most important from
423 reviews

Weight
Perfect for quick, overnight setups with its light weight and compact size.
Ease of Setup
Incredibly easy to set up and pack back up, especially compared to other brands of similar style tents.
Ventilation
Limited ventilation with only three zippered mesh windows, but adequate for most conditions.
Weather Resistance
Held up well in rain, with only minor water permeation when not fully staked.

The Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent is designed for solo backpackers seeking an effortless setup experience and compact portability. One of its standout features is the 'throw and pop' setup, which allows the tent to erect itself in mere seconds. Similarly, the folding process is upgraded for ease, making it more accessible even for beginners. Its weight of 3.3 pounds and the compact package size make it highly portable, ideal for one-person backpacking trips.

The inner dimensions, measuring 7.7x3.3x2.95 feet, provide adequate space for a single adult with gear, ensuring a reasonable comfort level. Ventilation is well-addressed with a large door and two wide windows that promote airflow, crucial for a comfortable sleeping environment in warm weather. Additionally, the tent includes options to create a porch area, though it requires external trekking poles which are not included.

When it comes to durability and weather resistance, the Night Cat tent features 190T Polyester Taffeta with a 2000mm PU coating, taped seams, and sturdy 6mm poles, making it both waterproof and windproof. This ensures dry conditions inside the tent even during heavy rain and strong winds. The tent supports three-season usage, making it versatile for various weather conditions except extreme cold.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The tent's maximum height of 35.5 inches might feel restrictive for taller users. Additionally, while the materials used are generally durable, they may not withstand prolonged exposure to harsh terrains or frequent use. In conclusion, the Night Cat Pop-up Camping Tent is well-suited for solo adventurers looking for a lightweight and user-friendly option with solid protection against standard weather conditions. It combines ease of use with thoughtful design touches that enhance comfort and convenience, making it a reliable choice for casual backpacking trips.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Ease of Setup
Ventilation

Most important from
423 reviews

Weight
Perfect for quick, overnight setups with its light weight and compact size.
Ease of Setup
Incredibly easy to set up and pack back up, especially compared to other brands of similar style tents.
Ventilation
Limited ventilation with only three zippered mesh windows, but adequate for most conditions.
Weather Resistance
Held up well in rain, with only minor water permeation when not fully staked.

Buying Guide for the Best 1 Man Backpacking Tent

Choosing the right 1-man backpacking tent is crucial for ensuring comfort, safety, and convenience during your outdoor adventures. The right tent will protect you from the elements, provide a comfortable sleeping space, and be easy to carry. When selecting a tent, consider the following key specifications to find the best fit for your needs.
WeightWeight is a critical factor for backpacking tents because you'll be carrying it on your back for long distances. A lighter tent will be easier to carry, but may sacrifice some durability or space. Tents can be categorized into ultralight (under 2 pounds), lightweight (2-3 pounds), and standard (3-4 pounds). If you prioritize ease of carrying and plan to cover long distances, an ultralight tent is ideal. For a balance between weight and durability, a lightweight tent is a good choice. If you don't mind carrying a bit more weight for added comfort and durability, a standard tent will work well.
SeasonalitySeasonality refers to the tent's ability to withstand different weather conditions. Tents are typically rated as 3-season or 4-season. A 3-season tent is designed for spring, summer, and fall, providing good ventilation and protection from rain and wind. A 4-season tent is built to handle harsher winter conditions, with stronger materials and better insulation. If you plan to backpack in mild to moderate weather, a 3-season tent is sufficient. For winter camping or high-altitude adventures, a 4-season tent is necessary to ensure safety and comfort.
Space and ComfortSpace and comfort are important for a good night's sleep. While a 1-man tent is designed for a single person, the interior space can vary. Look at the floor dimensions and peak height to determine how much room you'll have. Some tents offer more headroom and space to store gear. If you prefer more room to move around and store your belongings, choose a tent with larger dimensions. If you prioritize a compact and lightweight design, a smaller tent will be more suitable.
Ease of SetupEase of setup is crucial, especially after a long day of hiking. Tents with fewer poles and simple designs are quicker and easier to pitch. Freestanding tents are generally easier to set up and can be moved around before staking. If you often set up camp in the dark or in adverse weather conditions, look for a tent with a straightforward setup process. If you don't mind spending a bit more time on setup for added stability, a tent with a more complex design might be acceptable.
DurabilityDurability is determined by the materials used in the tent's construction. Higher denier fabrics and stronger poles will increase the tent's lifespan and resistance to wear and tear. However, more durable materials can add weight. If you plan to use the tent frequently or in rough conditions, prioritize durability. For occasional use in mild conditions, a tent with lighter materials will suffice.
VentilationVentilation is important to prevent condensation inside the tent, which can make for an uncomfortable sleeping environment. Look for tents with mesh panels, vents, and double-wall construction to promote airflow. If you camp in humid or rainy conditions, good ventilation is essential to keep the interior dry. In cooler, drier climates, ventilation is still important but may not need to be as extensive.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance includes the tent's ability to withstand rain, wind, and other elements. Features like a full-coverage rainfly, sealed seams, and a durable floor will enhance weather resistance. If you expect to encounter heavy rain or strong winds, prioritize a tent with robust weatherproofing features. For fair-weather camping, a tent with basic weather resistance will be adequate.

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