10 Best Lightweight 1 Person Tent For Backpacking 2025 in the United States

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 1-person tent is an excellent option for solo backpackers seeking a lightweight and functional shelter. Weighing just 120 grams, it’s incredibly light, making it easy to carry on long treks. Its packed size of 18 x 5.75 x 5 inches ensures it won't take up much space in your backpack. Setup is straightforward, thanks to the innovative TipLok Tent Buckle and pre-bent span pole design, which enhance stability and make assembly quick and efficient.

The tent offers good weather resistance with a 1200 mm water-resistant rainfly and durable nylon double rip-stop fabric that provides extra tear strength without adding weight. Ventilation is also well-considered, with design features that help reduce condensation and keep the interior comfortable. Interior space is optimized with a high-volume angle hub, creating ample room for a solo camper. Additional thoughtful features include multiple storage pockets and loops for gear, as well as a vestibule for extra covered space.

However, the tent is on the pricier side, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious hikers. Also, while it's highly functional, the compact size may feel a bit cramped for taller individuals. The single door design might limit accessibility, but it helps keep the weight down. In conclusion, the tent is best suited for serious backpackers who prioritize weight and durability and are willing to invest in a high-quality, ultralight shelter.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL is a thoughtfully designed 1-person backpacking tent that shines in several key areas. Weighing just 2.4 pounds, it’s very light, making it easy to carry on long hikes. Its compact packed size and included stuff sack add to convenience, and the tent's freestanding design means setup is straightforward and quick, helped by the innovative TipLok buckles that simplify pole attachment and tensioning. The tent's fabric uses HyperBead technology, making it more waterproof and durable than traditional materials while still breathable, so it stands up well against rain without trapping moisture inside. The tent’s ventilation options, including mesh panels and adjustable double zippers, help manage airflow to reduce condensation. Inside, the high-volume shape provides surprisingly good room considering its ultralight focus, with a generous vestibule to store gear outside the sleeping area. Storage pockets and door keepers add practical touches for organization. The DAC anodized aluminum poles offer strong support without extra weight, and reflective guylines improve visibility at night.

One potential downside is that ultralight tents like this often sacrifice some durability compared to heavier models, so it might require more careful handling and may not be ideal for very harsh or extended use in severe weather. Also, while the tent is designed for 3-season use, it may not be suited for winter conditions.

This tent represents an excellent choice for solo backpackers who prioritize light weight, easy setup, and good weather protection in mild to moderate conditions, while also providing decent interior space and ventilation.

The NEMO Dragonfly OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent is a solid choice for solo backpackers looking for a lightweight and durable shelter. Weighing in at just about 1.18 kilograms and packing down to a compact 18 x 4 x 4 inches, it is easy to carry without adding much bulk to your pack. The tent features high-performance OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric which boasts superior water repellency and reduced stretch when wet, making it reliable in diverse weather conditions.

Additionally, the fabric is environmentally friendly, being made from 100% recycled yarns and free from harmful PFAS chemicals. The setup is straightforward, thanks to hubbed, pre-bent DAC Featherlite NSL poles which also maximize interior space at the head, peak, and foot ends, ensuring comfort despite the tent's compact size. Ventilation is well-designed with generous doors and asymmetrical vestibules, which also enhance ease of entry and exit.

However, while the tent's durability and weather resistance are commendable, its minimum trail weight of 948 grams might be slightly heavier compared to some ultralight alternatives. For users prioritizing ultralight gear, this could be a point to consider. Despite this, the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO provides an excellent balance of weight, durability, and comfort, making it suitable for most backpacking adventures.