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10 Best Lightweight 1 Person Tent For Backpacking 2026 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
10.0
Chosen by1,365
Weight
Packed Size
Setup Time

Most important from
1033 reviews

Weight
The tent is not ultra-lightweight at 4.5 pounds, but this is seen as a trade-off for its durability.
Packed Size
Despite the compact size, it can be packed small enough to strap to the outside of a smaller 30L pack or fit inside a larger 65L pack.
Setup Time
It's very easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient choice for backpacking trips.
Weather Resistance
The tent is fully waterproof; one user mentioned waking up to an inch of water outside but finding the inside completely dry.
Durability
Durability is a strong point; after over a year of use, the bottom shows no signs of punctures or tears.
Interior Space
The tent can fit a tall person comfortably, with one user noting it accommodates their 6'4" height along with their pack.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,365
Weight
Packed Size
Setup Time

Most important from
1033 reviews

Weight
The tent is not ultra-lightweight at 4.5 pounds, but this is seen as a trade-off for its durability.
Packed Size
Despite the compact size, it can be packed small enough to strap to the outside of a smaller 30L pack or fit inside a larger 65L pack.
Setup Time
It's very easy to set up and take down, making it a convenient choice for backpacking trips.
Weather Resistance
The tent is fully waterproof; one user mentioned waking up to an inch of water outside but finding the inside completely dry.
Durability
Durability is a strong point; after over a year of use, the bottom shows no signs of punctures or tears.
Interior Space
The tent can fit a tall person comfortably, with one user noting it accommodates their 6'4" height along with their pack.
#2

Featherstone Backbone 1 Person Ultralight Tent for Backpacking, Camping, Thru Hiking - Trekking Pole Backpacking Tent - Waterproof, Single-Wall, Durable Shelter - Compact, Light, & Easy to Carry

Rating
9.4
Weight
Setup Time
Weather Resistance

Most important from
105 reviews

Weight
Using trekking poles for support cleverly reduces pack weight while providing a stable, quick setup that users find straightforward after initial familiarization.
Setup Time
Using trekking poles for support cleverly reduces pack weight while providing a stable, quick setup that users find straightforward after initial familiarization.
Weather Resistance
The all-in-one single-wall design speeds up pitching and keeps the interior dry even during light drizzle, enhancing convenience in variable weather.
Ventilation
Dual doors and vestibules add practical versatility, allowing easy access and gear organization while enjoying views from both sides.
Durability
The floor material is notably thin, raising concerns about durability on rough terrain, suggesting cautious site selection or additional protection.
Interior Space
The tent offers surprisingly spacious interior and generous headroom for a solo shelter, making it comfortable for one person.

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.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Setup Time
Weather Resistance

Most important from
105 reviews

Weight
Using trekking poles for support cleverly reduces pack weight while providing a stable, quick setup that users find straightforward after initial familiarization.
Setup Time
Using trekking poles for support cleverly reduces pack weight while providing a stable, quick setup that users find straightforward after initial familiarization.
Weather Resistance
The all-in-one single-wall design speeds up pitching and keeps the interior dry even during light drizzle, enhancing convenience in variable weather.
Ventilation
Dual doors and vestibules add practical versatility, allowing easy access and gear organization while enjoying views from both sides.
Durability
The floor material is notably thin, raising concerns about durability on rough terrain, suggesting cautious site selection or additional protection.
Interior Space
The tent offers surprisingly spacious interior and generous headroom for a solo shelter, making it comfortable for one person.
#3

OneTigris Stella 4 Season Camping Tent Backpacking 1 Person Waterproof Lightweight Easy Setup Instant 3000mm Waterproof Rating Outdoor Hiking Tent

Rating
9.4
Weight
Packed Size
Setup Time

Most important from
357 reviews

Weight
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Packed Size
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Setup Time
Setup is exceptionally straightforward and quick, even for beginners, with first-time pitching taking just a few minutes and potential to speed up with practice.
Weather Resistance
The tent holds up well in windy conditions, providing secure shelter even at 10-15 mph winds, with confidence it can withstand more.
Ventilation
Condensation occurs in cold weather as expected but is manageable with proper ventilation.
Durability
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Interior Space
Interior space fits a single person comfortably, though taller users may need to angle themselves slightly to avoid touching the sidewalls.

The OneTigris Stella tent is a strong contender for solo backpackers looking for a reliable 4-season shelter that balances weight and durability. Weighing only about 3.8 pounds (1.74 kg), it’s light enough for most backpacking trips without sacrificing sturdiness, thanks to its 20D nylon fabric with a silicone coating. Its 3000mm waterproof rating means it can handle heavy rain, and the tent’s design includes a blackout outer layer and a mesh inner tent to boost airflow and reduce condensation during humid conditions.

Setup is straightforward with flexible fiberglass poles crossing at the top and anchoring at four points, making it beginner-friendly and quick to pitch. In terms of space, the tent measures roughly 6.9 feet long and 4.1 feet wide, which comfortably fits one person but may feel tight if you need extra room for gear inside. The floor is made of durable nylon, supporting extended use on rough terrain. One minor downside is the use of fiberglass poles, which are less durable than aluminum options found in higher-end models but help keep the weight down.

Ventilation is good thanks to the mesh panels, which help maintain comfort in warmer weather. The OneTigris Stella serves well for backpackers seeking a lightweight, weather-resistant tent with easy setup and solid protection across all seasons. However, those prioritizing more interior space or ultra-robust poles might want to explore other options.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Packed Size
Setup Time

Most important from
357 reviews

Weight
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Packed Size
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Setup Time
Setup is exceptionally straightforward and quick, even for beginners, with first-time pitching taking just a few minutes and potential to speed up with practice.
Weather Resistance
The tent holds up well in windy conditions, providing secure shelter even at 10-15 mph winds, with confidence it can withstand more.
Ventilation
Condensation occurs in cold weather as expected but is manageable with proper ventilation.
Durability
The tent is impressively lightweight and packs down to a manageable size, making it ideal for backpacking without sacrificing durability.
Interior Space
Interior space fits a single person comfortably, though taller users may need to angle themselves slightly to avoid touching the sidewalls.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightweight 1 Person Tent For Backpacking

Choosing the right lightweight 1-person tent for backpacking 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 will be carrying it on your back for long distances. A lightweight tent typically ranges from 1 to 3 pounds. If you are an ultralight backpacker, aim for a tent closer to 1 pound. For those who prioritize comfort and durability over minimal weight, a tent around 2 to 3 pounds might be more suitable. Consider your physical strength and the length of your trips when deciding on the weight.
Packed SizePacked size refers to the dimensions of the tent when it is folded and stored in its carrying bag. A smaller packed size is easier to fit into your backpack and leaves more room for other gear. Look for tents that pack down to a compact size, ideally under 20 inches in length and 6 inches in diameter. If you have limited space in your backpack or prefer a more organized packing system, a tent with a smaller packed size is beneficial.
Setup TimeSetup time is the amount of time and effort required to pitch the tent. A tent that is quick and easy to set up can save you time and frustration, especially in bad weather or after a long day of hiking. Tents with fewer poles and simple designs generally have shorter setup times. If you are new to backpacking or often find yourself setting up camp in challenging conditions, opt for a tent with a straightforward setup process.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance includes the tent's ability to withstand rain, wind, and other elements. Look for tents with a high waterproof rating (measured in millimeters) for the rainfly and floor, typically 1,500 mm or higher. Additionally, consider the tent's wind resistance, which is influenced by its shape and pole structure. If you plan to backpack in areas with unpredictable weather, prioritize a tent with strong weather resistance to ensure you stay dry and protected.
VentilationVentilation is important to prevent condensation buildup inside the tent, which can make your sleeping environment damp and uncomfortable. Tents with mesh panels, vents, and breathable fabrics offer better airflow. If you often backpack in warm or humid climates, choose a tent with ample ventilation features to maintain a comfortable interior temperature and reduce moisture.
DurabilityDurability refers to the tent's ability to withstand wear and tear over time. This is influenced by the materials used for the tent fabric, poles, and zippers. Higher denier fabrics and aluminum poles are generally more durable. If you frequently backpack in rugged terrain or plan to use the tent for many trips, invest in a tent with durable materials to ensure it lasts longer and provides reliable performance.
Interior SpaceInterior space includes the floor area, peak height, and overall livability of the tent. A tent with a larger floor area and higher peak height offers more room to move around and store gear. However, larger tents may also be heavier. If you prefer more comfort and space, look for a tent with a generous interior. For those who prioritize weight savings, a more compact tent may be the better choice.

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