10 Best Cheap Lightweight Backpacking Tent 2025 in the United States

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL is a high-quality ultralight tent designed for backpackers who want to carry minimal weight without sacrificing space or features. At 1.62 kg (about 3.6 lbs), it’s very light, making it suitable for multi-day hikes where every ounce counts. It comfortably fits three people, which is roomy for a lightweight tent category, thanks to its innovative pole design that maximizes interior space. The tent is rated for 4-season use, so it can handle a variety of weather conditions including some winter camping, which adds versatility beyond typical summer tents. Its nylon double-ripstop fabric offers good durability while keeping weight down. Waterproofing is solid, so you should stay dry in rain. Ventilation is well thought out with two doors and vestibules that can be converted into awnings for extra airflow and covered living space, helping to reduce condensation inside. The integrated mtnGLO tent lights are a nice touch for convenience at night. Setup involves a single, pre-bent aluminum pole system which tends to be straightforward and stable. The packed size is compact, roughly 21 x 6 x 6 inches, making it easy to fit in most backpacks.

The price can be on the higher side compared to simpler models, so it might not fit all budgets. Also, while it’s durable for a lightweight tent, ultralight materials generally require more careful handling to avoid damage. This tent suits backpackers who prioritize light weight and space and are willing to invest a bit more for quality and extra features, especially for small groups or families that camp in varied seasons.

The MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack tent is a solid choice for lightweight backpackers, especially those who bikepack and need gear that fits neatly on a bike. Weighing just 3 lbs 1 oz (1.4 kg), it’s light enough to carry comfortably for long distances. The tent fits two people and offers a spacious rectangular floor plan with a good amount of headroom (42 inches), making it roomy for two campers plus their cycling gear. It is designed for 3-season use, handling spring through fall conditions well, thanks to its DuraShield waterproof coating and taped seams that protect against rain.

The tent sets up relatively easily with strong, short DAC poles that pack down small enough to fit on bike handlebars or frame bags, which is great if you need to save space. Ventilation is addressed with internal and external clotheslines and multiple large vestibules, helping reduce condensation and giving extra storage. Durability is decent for its weight class, suitable for regular use but it’s not meant for harsh winter or heavy storm conditions. The included handlebar storage bag and spacers are thoughtful bike-specific touches.

One downside is the waterproof rating at 1,200mm, which is on the lower side compared to heavier-duty tents, so very heavy or prolonged rain might be more challenging. The packed size is compact and bike-friendly, but if you’re purely backpacking without a bike, there are lighter tents with simpler setups. This tent is ideal for cyclists seeking a lightweight, well-ventilated tent with enough space for two people and their gear during 3-season trips without breaking the bank.

The NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO is a lightweight and compact two-person backpacking tent that balances durability and ease of use. Weighing just 0.77 kg (about 1.7 lbs), it is an excellent choice for those wanting to keep their pack light on multi-day hikes. Its aluminum poles provide sturdy support, and the OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric offers improved water resistance and less stretch when wet, which means it holds up well in rainy conditions without sagging. This fabric is also environmentally friendly, made from recycled materials and free from harmful chemicals.

The tent has a rectangular shape with generous doors and vestibules on both sides, making entry and gear storage convenient for two users. The innovative Flybar clip and guy-outs add extra headroom and reduce condensation issues by keeping the tent walls away from your sleeping bags. Setup is straightforward thanks to its freestanding design, which is helpful if you need to move the tent after pitching.

At just under a meter tall, it offers enough space for two people without feeling cramped, though taller campers might find the height limiting. The packed size is very slim, especially with the Divvy Cube stuff sack allowing weight sharing and efficient packing, which is a bonus for lightweight backpackers. On the downside, the tent is water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so in heavy or prolonged rain, some care may be needed to avoid leaks. Also, with only one room, privacy or extra space for gear inside is limited. While the price point is not the cheapest on the market, the quality materials and thoughtful design make it a solid investment for those prioritizing weight and packability in a reliable two-person tent.