10 Best Cheap Hiking Tent 2025 in the United States

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent is a budget-friendly option for hikers and campers looking for a reliable shelter. Weighing 6.8 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, making it suitable for hiking trips where pack weight is a concern. Its capacity comfortably fits two people or a queen-size airbed, though it might be a bit tight for larger individuals or extra gear.

Designed for 3-season use, it offers decent weather resistance with its WeatherTec system that includes welded corners and inverted seams to prevent water ingress. Additionally, the tent’s frame has been tested to withstand winds up to 35 mph, offering peace of mind during stormy conditions. The setup is straightforward, taking around 10 minutes thanks to features like snag-free, continuous pole sleeves.

For ventilation, two windows and a ground vent promote airflow, helping to keep the interior cool and reducing condensation. The tent includes useful storage pockets and an e-port for electrical access, which are handy additions. However, some users might find the tent's height of 4 feet limiting for headroom and mobility inside. While it’s designed to be durable, the use of fiberglass poles may not be as robust as aluminum alternatives found in more expensive models. The 1-year limited warranty provides some assurance of quality. This tent is a solid choice for those new to hiking or camping who need a functional, affordable, and easy-to-set-up shelter.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Backpacking Tent is designed for solo hikers seeking an ultralight and versatile shelter. Weighing only 1.08 kilograms, it is remarkably lightweight, making it ideal for backpacking. It offers a one-person capacity which is perfect for individual hikers and campers. The tent is rated for 4 seasons, suggesting it can handle various weather conditions throughout the year, including rain and snow.

The tent material is waterproof with a 1200 mm water resistance rating, but it does not offer high ultraviolet light protection, which might be a downside for long sun-exposed hikes. The Copper Spur HV UL is designed for ease of setup, featuring a unique TipLok Tent Buckle that simplifies the assembly process and ensures stability. The triangular shape and pre-bent span pole contribute to its stability and optimal livable space. Durability is a strong point, with its ultralight nylon double rip-stop fabric providing extra tear strength and puncture resistance.

On the inside, the tent includes various storage options such as a 3-D bin mezzanine, oversized ceiling pocket, and media pockets, enhancing convenience during your camping trips. Despite its strengths, the tent’s compact size (22”L x 9”W x 6”H) may feel cramped for some users, and its single door and vestibule might limit accessibility. In summary, this tent would benefit solo hikers looking for a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-set-up tent for varied weather conditions, though it may not be the best option for those needing more space or higher UV protection.

The Big Agnes Bunk House is a spacious 4-person tent designed for family or group camping, making it a strong choice if you prioritize roominess during your hiking trips. It features two large doors and vestibules that add convenience for entering and storing gear, plus plenty of interior pockets to keep things organized. Its 3-season rating means it handles typical spring, summer, and fall conditions well, including rain, thanks to its waterproof polyester fabric and taped seams. The tent’s weather resistance is solid, with storm flaps and reflective guylines that add stability in wind and rain.

On the downside, at about 16 pounds, it’s heavier than many ultralight hiking tents, so it’s better suited for car camping or short hikes rather than long backpacking trips. The single aluminum pole setup with color-coded webbing helps make pitching the tent straightforward, even for those new to camping, but the size means it takes up a fair amount of space when packed.

Durability is a plus here; the materials and construction look robust enough to handle regular use, and the lifetime warranty offers peace of mind. However, it’s recommended to buy a separate footprint to protect the floor, which adds to the cost. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, roomy, fairly easy-to-set-up tent that protects well against the elements and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, the Big Agnes Bunk House makes a practical option. It suits families or groups who camp in milder seasons and want comfort and storage without breaking the bank.