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

The Night Cat Backpacking Tent is designed mainly for 1 to 2 people and is a solid choice for lightweight backpacking. Weighing about 5.5 pounds, it’s reasonably light but not the lightest on the market, which might matter if every ounce counts. Its packed size is compact (around 16.5 x 5 x 5 inches), making it easy to carry in a backpack. Setup is quick and straightforward, taking just 1 to 2 minutes with two fiberglass poles that come with protective sleeves to prevent injury during assembly.

In terms of weather resistance, the tent performs well. The waterproof polyester fabric with a 3000 mm rating and taped seams offer reliable protection even in heavy rainstorms. The single-layer design might mean less insulation in cold weather, but it’s rated for 4 seasons, so it should handle most conditions typical to backpacking. Ventilation is thoughtfully addressed with a mesh door and roof vent to keep air flowing and bugs out, which helps reduce condensation inside.

Interior space fits two people comfortably, with room to store gear like backpacks and shoes inside. The dome shape provides about 7 feet length and nearly 5 feet width, which is generous for a lightweight tent. Durability seems good with fiberglass poles and waterproof Oxford fabric, though the single-layer design might be less robust compared to double-wall tents. Some users might find the tent a bit heavy compared to ultra-light options, and the single door might be less convenient for two people. But for campers wanting an easy-to-set-up, weatherproof, and fairly roomy tent that balances weight and comfort, the Night Cat tent is a practical choice.

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 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.