We all have baggage. How about leaving some of that behind for your next outdoor adventure. These bad boys are so light, you might just forget you’re carrying them! But don’t worry, they’ve got your back when Mother Nature throws a tantrum. So, grab your favorite trail snack, and let’s explore the top 5 ultralight tents that are changing the game for serious backpackers in 2024!
Introduction: Remember the days when backpacking meant lugging around a tent that weighed as much as a small child? Yeah, those days are long gone. Welcome to the ultralight revolution, where every ounce counts, and your tent doesn’t have to be a burden. We’ve scoured the market, grilled the experts, and put these shelters through their paces to bring you the absolute best of the best. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a thru-hiker with dreams of conquering the Triple Crown, we’ve got you covered (literally).
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The Featherweight Champion: Gossamer Gear The One
Weight: A jaw-dropping 17.7 oz (502 g) Packed Size: 6″ x 9″ (15 cm x 23 cm) Floor Area: 19.55 sq ft (1.8 sq m)
Kicking off our list is the Gossamer Gear The One, a solo shelter that’ll make you feel like you’re carrying nothing at all. This single-wall wonder is a trekking pole tent that sets up faster than you can say “ultralight.” With its spacious interior and surprisingly good headroom, you won’t feel like you’re sleeping in a glorified bivy sack.
What we love:
- Insanely light without sacrificing livability
- Great ventilation to keep condensation at bay
- Packs down smaller than your water bottle
What could be better:
- Single-wall design means you might play “dodge the condensation” on humid nights
- Requires some practice to achieve a perfect pitch
- Not freestanding, so choose your campsite wisely
Available: GossamerGear.com |GarageGrownGear,com
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The Dynamic Duo: Zpacks Duplex
Weight: 19 oz (539 g) Packed Size: 7″ x 13″ (18 cm x 33 cm) Floor Area: 28 sq ft (2.6 sq m)
Next up is the Zpacks Duplex, the Holy Grail for couples who count ounces together. Made from otherworldly Dyneema Composite Fabric, this tent laughs in the face of rain and wind. It’s so light, you might want to tie it down on breezy days (just kidding… sort of).
What we love:
- Spacious enough for two, light enough for one
- Bombproof in nasty weather
- Two doors mean no midnight gymnastics
- Two adults can lie side by side in the tent – rather than having to go head to toe
- Easy access doors allow for great views and excellent ventilation
- No additional groundsheet is required
What could be better:
- Can be a little expensive compared to competitors
- Requires trekking poles, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea
- Condensation can be an issue in certain conditions
Available: Zpacks.com
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The Freestanding Phenom: Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2
Weight: 2 lbs 4 oz (1.02 kg) Packed Size: 4″ x 19″ (10 cm x 48 cm) Floor Area: 28 sq ft (2.6 sq m)
For those who prefer their tents to stand on their own two feet (or four poles), enter the
. This freestanding fortress proves that you don’t need to sacrifice convenience for weight savings.
What we love:
- Sets up in a flash, even on rocky ground
- Surprisingly roomy for its weight
- Great protection from the elements
What could be better:
- Single door design can be a bit of a squeeze for two
- Not as sturdy in high winds as non-freestanding options
- Slim profile means less headroom than some competitors
Available: BigAgnes.com
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The Budget-Friendly Beast: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
Weight: 26 oz (737 g) Packed Size: 6″ x 11″ (15 cm x 28 cm) Floor Area: 26 sq ft (2.4 sq m)
Who says you need to sell a kidney to go ultralight? The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo proves that saving weight doesn’t have to break the bank. This spacious single-person shelter offers incredible value without compromising on performance.
What we love:
- Wallet-friendly without feeling cheap
- Generous living space for a solo tent
- Great ventilation to keep things fresh
What could be better:
- Silnylon construction isn’t as waterproof as Dyneema (but still pretty good)
- Requires seam sealing for maximum weather protection
- Learning curve for the perfect pitch
Available: Six Moon Designs
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The Versatility King: Tarptent StratoSpire Li
Weight: 1 lb 12 oz (794 g) Packed Size: 6″ x 12″ (15 cm x 30 cm) Floor Area: 30.6 sq ft (2.8 sq m)
Rounding out our list is the Tarptent StratoSpire Li, a two-person shelter that adapts faster than a chameleon in a crayon factory. With its modular design and rock-solid stability, it’s ready for whatever adventure you throw at it.
What we love:
- Incredibly stable in high winds
- Versatile setup options for different conditions
- Massive vestibules for gear storage
What could be better:
- Complex design means a steeper learning curve
- On the heavier side of ultralight (but still impressively light)
- Premium price tag
Available: TarpTent.com
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are ultralight tents as durable as heavier models?
A: While ultralight tents do sacrifice some durability for weight savings, modern materials like Dyneema and silnylon are surprisingly tough. With proper care, an ultralight tent can last for thousands of miles. Just don’t expect to use it as a trampoline, okay?
Q: How do these tents handle condensation?
A: Condensation is the arch-nemesis of any tent, but ultralight models can be more prone to it due to their smaller size and often single-wall construction. Look for tents with good ventilation options, and remember: a little condensation never hurt anyone (but it might make your sleeping bag a bit damp).
Q: Can these tents handle extreme weather?
A: While most ultralight tents are designed for three-season use, many can handle surprisingly tough conditions. However, if you’re planning on camping in a hurricane or on the summit of Everest, you might want to look into more specialized gear.
Q: Do I need trekking poles for these tents?
A: Some ultralight tents, like the Gossamer Gear The One and Zpacks Duplex, use trekking poles for support to save weight. Others, like the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2, come with their own poles. Consider your hiking style and preferences when choosing.
Q: Are these tents worth the investment?
A: If you’re serious about backpacking and want to increase your comfort and efficiency on the trail, then absolutely! The weight savings can be a game-changer, allowing you to hike further, faster, and with less fatigue. Plus, your back will thank you.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a dynamic duo, or a budget-conscious backpacker, there’s a featherweight shelter here with your name on it. Remember, the best tent is the one that fits your specific needs and adventures.
Happy trails, and may your pack be light and your adventures be epic!
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