10 Best Lightweight 1 Person Tent For Backpacking 2026 in the United States

The Featherstone Backbone is a solid choice for solo backpackers who want a lightweight and roomy tent without adding much weight to their pack. Weighing just under 2.5 pounds, it’s impressively light for a tent that still offers good interior space—long enough and wide enough to fit a full-sized sleeping pad comfortably. Its design cleverly uses trekking poles to keep it stable, which helps reduce weight by eliminating traditional tent poles, but you’ll need to bring your own poles. Setting it up is quick and simple, thanks to staking the corners and clipping the poles in place.

Weather protection is a strong point here: the tent uses Sil-Nylon fabric with waterproof seam tape and a waterproof zipper to keep rain and wind out. It’s recommended for three-season use, handling spring through fall conditions well. Ventilation is thoughtfully planned with wide mesh panels and large vents, which helps reduce condensation and keeps fresh air flowing, although in very cold or wet weather, managing airflow might require care. The dual doors and vestibules add practicality by making gear storage easier and entry more convenient.

The tent’s footprint is somewhat narrow (about 20 inches wide), which may feel tight if you prefer extra room inside or want to store bulky gear inside. Also, being a single-wall tent, it might not be the best option for very wet climates or winter use, as single-wall designs can sometimes trap moisture. Lastly, while the materials promise durability, like all ultralight tents, it needs careful handling to avoid tears or damage over time. This tent suits hikers seeking a lightweight, weather-resistant shelter that balances comfort and packability for most backpacking trips in mild to moderate weather.

The Camppal 1 Person Tent is designed to be lightweight and highly portable, making it an excellent choice for backpackers. Weighing just 3.75 pounds, it's easy to carry and doesn't add much weight to your pack. Its compact packed size ensures it won't take up much space, either. Setup is efficient, with a quick 3-minute assembly time, which is ideal for those who need to set up camp quickly after a long day of hiking.

The tent is built for 4-season use, boasting impressive weather resistance with a 3500 to 4000 mm water resistance rating, seam taping, and strong aluminum pole construction. These features help it withstand heavy rain and strong winds, keeping you dry and secure in challenging conditions. Ventilation in the tent is adequate, but with only one door, airflow might be somewhat limited. Interior space is decent, accommodating a taller person comfortably due to its extended length of 8.2 feet. However, the width of 2.95 feet may feel snug, especially with gear inside.

Durability is a strong point, with rip-stop fabric that prevents tearing, ensuring that the tent remains reliable over multiple trips. Fire retardant properties add an extra layer of safety. The tent comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind with your purchase. It's suitable for various outdoor activities including camping, hiking, trekking, hunting, and mountaineering. The limited interior space might be a drawback for those who prefer more room or have a lot of gear. This tent is a solid option for solo backpackers looking for a lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant shelter.

The NEMO Equipment Hornet Elite OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent is designed for solo backpackers who prioritize weight and compact size. At just 0.66 kilograms, it is extremely lightweight and won't add much burden to your pack. The compact packed size of 23.62 x 7.87 x 7.87 inches is ideal for efficiently fitting into a backpack. Setup time is relatively quick thanks to the semi-freestanding design and single pole, making it convenient for solo adventurers.

The OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric offers excellent weather resistance with 4x better water repellency, ensuring that you stay dry even in heavy rain. Additionally, the fabric is made from recycled materials and free of harmful chemicals, which is a plus for environmentally conscious users. Ventilation is enhanced by features like generous doors and vestibules, and Flybar volumizing clips that add space and improve air circulation.

Durability seems strong due to the high-strength materials used. The tent is designed for 4-season use, indicating it may be a bit more robust than necessary for summer-only excursions. The interior space is somewhat limited, which is expected for a 1-person tent, but the volumizing guy-outs help increase usable space at the foot. One potential drawback is its higher price point. The lifetime warranty against defects is reassuring for long-term use. This tent is a great choice for solo backpackers looking for an ultralight, durable, and weather-resistant option with good environmental credentials.