10 Best Cheap Lightweight Backpacking Tent 2025 in the United States

The Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent is a solid choice for backpackers and campers looking for a lightweight and durable shelter. Weighing in at 2400 grams (around 5.3 pounds), it is light enough for backpacking trips without feeling overly burdensome. The tent provides ample space for two people with its 32 square feet floor area and offers convenient access with two D-shaped doors and additional storage with two overhead vestibules. This makes it practical for organizing gear and easy entry and exit.

The tent's waterproof features are commendable, with seam-taped floors and a polyester rainfly that ensures you stay dry in wet conditions, which is especially useful for Fall camping. The 7000 series aluminum poles contribute to the tent's durability, making it resilient in various weather conditions. Ventilation is adequately addressed with the design, preventing condensation buildup and enhancing comfort during use. However, the packed size of the tent, measuring 23.25 x 7.75 x 7.75 inches, might be larger than some ultra-compact models, which could be a consideration for those looking to minimize pack space.

The tent is designed for Fall and potentially Winter use, which might limit its utility in warmer seasons. Setting up the tent is straightforward with its clip attachment mechanism, though it may require some practice for beginners. In summary, the Marmot Crane Creek 2P Tent offers a good balance of lightweight portability, durability, and weather resistance, making it suitable for budget-conscious backpackers and campers looking for a reliable two-person tent.

The Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and lightweight option for backpacking. Weighing in at 4 pounds, it is easy to carry and won't add much burden to your backpack. Designed for two people, it offers 30 square feet of interior space, which is sufficient for a comfortable sleep while maintaining a compact packed size of 16 x 7 x 7 inches, making it easy to store and transport.

The tent is rated for 3-season use, meaning it can handle most weather conditions except extreme winter conditions. The included rainfly and fully seam-taped construction provide good protection against rain, ensuring you stay dry. The setup is straightforward with Kelty's Quick Corners and color-coded clip and fly attachment, making it user-friendly even for beginners. The freestanding design allows you to move the tent around easily to find the best camping spot.

However, there are a few drawbacks. The single door and vestibule might be a limitation for two people, especially in terms of ease of access and storage space for gear. The tent might also feel tight if you are storing gear inside due to limited interior space. Durability is enhanced by the use of 68D polyester fabric and DAC pressfit aluminum poles, although it might not be as robust as higher-end tents with more advanced materials. Ventilation could be improved, as the tent only has one door, which may limit airflow compared to tents with multiple openings. This tent is best suited for budget-conscious backpackers who prioritize lightweight and easy setup over more advanced features and extra space.