10 Best Ultralight Tents 2025 in the United States

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 5-person tent is designed for backpackers who want a roomy yet lightweight shelter. Weighing about 7.3 pounds, it’s light for its size, but heavier than smaller ultralight tents meant for fewer people. Its 5-person capacity and added length and height make it comfortable for taller users or groups needing extra space. The tent is made from durable, waterproof nylon with a 2000 mm water resistance rating, suitable for summer conditions but not ideal for heavy rain or cold weather.

Setup is simplified by a smart buckle system that locks poles securely and stabilizes the structure, making pitching the tent quicker and less fiddly. It has two doors and two vestibules, increasing ventilation and covered storage, which helps keep gear dry and the inside comfortable. The packed size is reasonably compact at 22 x 6 inches, fitting well in most backpacks for multi-day trips. Storage pockets inside add convenience for organizing small items.

This tent is best for summer trips as it lacks features needed for harsher weather or winter use. Some may find the 7+ pounds weight a bit much if cutting every ounce is critical. The price tends to be on the higher side, reflecting its quality and features. It suits backpackers wanting a spacious, easy-to-set-up, lightweight shelter for fair-weather summer trips, especially those who appreciate extra length and headroom.

The Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 Person Tent is a notable choice for ultralight backpackers. Weighing just under 4 pounds, this tent excels in the weight department, making it ideal for those who prioritize light packing. It's designed to comfortably accommodate two people and is rated for three-season use, which suits most camping conditions excluding harsh winter weather. The double-layer construction with 20D nylon fabric offers durability and impressive water resistance with a 4000mm waterproof index, ensuring protection during rain showers.

Setting up the tent is user-friendly, typically taking around 5 minutes, and its free-standing design with pre-bent poles adds to its ease of use. The included footprint is a bonus, extending the life of the tent floor by providing an extra layer of protection against rough ground.

One of the tent's standout features is its compact packed size, which is advantageous for backpackers seeking to save space. However, while the ventilation system has been improved with a rear window, in warm climates, it could benefit from additional airflow options.

As a stylishly simple dome-shaped tent, it includes quality components like YKK zippers and aluminum poles. Yet, being a two-person tent, it might feel snug, especially for taller individuals, when used at full capacity. Moreover, for those engaged in more specialized activities or requiring additional space, considering the floor area and peak height might be essential.

This tent is suited for backpackers and hikers who value portability and weather resistance, while those needing more interior space or additional ventilation might need to explore other options. With a 4.4-star rating from users, its quality and user satisfaction appear high, affirming its position as a reliable choice in the ultralight tent category.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Ultralight Bikepacking Tent is a great choice for bikepackers and travelers who need a lightweight and compact shelter. Weighing in at just 2 pounds 15 ounces and packing down to a small size of 13.5 x 7 inches, it’s easy to carry on your bike or in your backpack. It’s designed to house two people comfortably with a spacious interior thanks to its high-volume hub design, which increases interior space by 20% compared to previous models.

The tent is built to withstand the elements with its proprietary ultralight nylon double rip-stop fabric, offering solid tear and puncture resistance. It’s rated for 4 seasons, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Setup is simplified with the TipLok Tent Buckle and color-coded webbing, ensuring a smooth and quick pitch even for beginners. Ventilation is well-thought-out with one fly vent and additional low vents on the vestibule doors to maintain airflow without sacrificing protection from the rain.

At a trail weight of nearly 3 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than some other ultralight options on the market. Additionally, while the tent offers excellent durability and weather resistance, the footprint is sold separately, which might be an added cost for users looking to extend the lifespan of their tent floor. The tent includes handy features like a helmet storage webbing, oversized ceiling pocket, and multiple attachment points for bike frames, making it especially suited for cycling enthusiasts. With its combination of bikepacking-friendly features, durability, and user-friendly setup, it stands out as a robust option for outdoor adventurers.