Ultralight Backpacking Tents

How much should ultralight backpacking tents weigh? The pup tents I used as a child was about three pounds. Based on this, I figure - with all the new materials available - it should be possible to make one-man and even two-man tents under three pounds without all the interior condensation problems of the old tents.

There are a few backpacking tents that meet my standards, as well as tarps, bivies and other options. Here are some of the specific design features, and their advantages and disadvantages.

- Single wall waterproof-breathable tents. These tend to be as heavy as the the ones with rain-flies. Some users report that they still have condensation problems too. They may be simpler to erect, though.

- Single wall waterproof tents. The newest designs are not like the old pup-tents. They deal with the interior condensation problem by having lots of ventilation. A forward sloping front, for example can be a screened opening to allow air flow, while still keeping rain out in all but the windiest storms.

- Floor-less tents. The advantage here is usually quick set-up, in addition to the weight savings. Some designs let you use trekking poles instead of carrying the extra weight of tent poles. You need a groundsheet, of course, but these can be light (and disposable) plastic to keep the weight down.

- Hanging tents. Some designs let the tent be hung from a tree limb, so you can save the weight of tent poles. It can sometimes be difficult to find a good branch for this, so you may want to be sure you can use a stick or trekking pole as an alternative.

- One-man versus two-man tents. Of course a one-man tent will usually be lighter. On the other hand, if you will mostly be backpacking with a friend, a two-man tent should weigh less per-person. Also consider how much time you will spend in the tent - space matters if you'll be waiting out the rain for hours on end.

- Aircraft aluminum poles. These are some of the lighter tent poles out there - certainly lighter than the shock-corded fiberglass ones.

- Four-season versus three-season tents. This is a somewhat artificial distinction unless you are going to do some extremely cold backpacking. I have even tarp-camped when it snowed. Just be sure that you can use the tent for the conditions you expect to be in.

- Lamp hangers, interior pockets, and other features. While I generally don't like to pay in dollars or in extra weight for special features, sometimes they are worth it. If you like to read in the tent, a loop at the top to hang a flashlight from is a real advantage.

- Are you very claustrophobic? A large tent or even a tarp may be better for you.

- How tall are you? If the length of the tent is within a few inches of your height, you will be touching the walls. This probably means getting wet from the condensation.

- Do you simply sleep in your tent, or spend hours in it reading and talking? Total floor space is more important if you plan to spend a lot of time in your tent.

- Will you be backpacking in rainy areas? You tend to get what you pay for with tents. A cheaper tent may shrug off a gentle shower, but leak during a sustained downpour.

- Do you value faster set-up or lighter weight more? Some tents set up quickly, which can be nice if it is getting dark or about to rain. It might even be worth a few extra ounces.

- How much have you budgeted for a tent? If it isn't much, be sure to read the chapters on tarps and bivy sacks too.

Maybe you can get by with a tarp or a bivy sack. It depends on the type of trips you take, the terrain and climate you'll be in, and your own needs for comfort. What you need is a lightweight backpacking shelter that you enjoy using and works for you. This may mean owning a couple different shelters for different purposes.

Even some of us who primarily use tarps like to use a good backpacking tent from time to time. Tents have obvious advantages. They usually keep you out of the weather more effectively. They give you more protection from insects. They give you more privacy. It will usually be warmer in a tent than under a tarp, because it is harder for the wind to blow away your body heat.

That last advantage can become a disadvantage when it is a hot summer nigh, of course. They can also take some time to set up. The primary disadvantage, though, is that the lightest backpacking tent is heavier than either tarps or bivy sacks.

So should you carry a tent or something else for a shelter? It's a matter of place, season and personal preference. I happen to love the open feeling of life under a tarp - at least until the mosquitoes come out. If it buggy and windy and rainy, I would prefer any of the good ultralight backpacking tents.

Key Points

1. A good ultralight backpacking tent should weigh three pounds or less (one-man tent).

2. You need to carefully consider how you use a tent in order to buy the right one for you.

3. You need to think about the climate where you'll be using the tent before buying one.

4. There are other shelter options besides a backpacking tent.

Every chapter has tips for lightweight backpacking and wilderness survival.