How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent

With seemingly infinite different brands and models of backpacking tents to choose from, it can be daunting to try and find the perfect fit for your needs. Before we jump right in with recommendations though, let us first establish what kinds of things you’ll want to consider when choosing a tent.

What time of year will you generally be camping in? What kind of terrain and weather do you expect to encounter? Are you going to be sleeping in it alone? With a partner? With pet(s)? What’s your budget like? Are you using it to car camp or are you an aspiring ultralight backpacker? Don’t worry if all of that sounds overwhelming right now - we’ll break it all down for you right here in this blog, and once finished reading, you’ll be equipped to march right into an REI and demand the make and model that suits your every desire.

So first off, when are you planning to camp? If it’s in the spring, summer, or fall, a three-season tent will likely suit your needs just fine. If you’re venturing out in the snow and ice, you will want a four-season tent with thicker walls for better insulation and protection from the elements. 

Another essential consideration is the location you’ll be camping in. Are you in the root-filled woods of the White Mountains, rocky slabs of Yosemite, sandy deserts of Utah? Is the ground soft enough for stakes or trekking poles to stick into it? If not, you’ll need a free-standing tent. Otherwise, you have the flexibility to choose a tent held up by poles, tied out with stakes and ropes, propped up with trekking poles, or any other combination of support that fancies you.

Next thing you’ll want to establish is the size of tent you will need. If you are planning to camp alone and don’t need any extra storage, a one-person tent will probably work just fine. However, some people prefer the two-person size for extra comfort and so they can store their pack inside rather than out in the elements. If you’re traveling with a dog or other furry friend, a two-person tent will also be much more comfortable. Naturally you’ll need at least a two-person if you’ve got a camping partner you’re sharing sleeping arrangements with, but some like to upsize to a three-person for even more wiggle room and/or storage space. This one is entirely up to personal preference, but is definitely something you will want to give some thought before beginning a search. 

While size will determine your price range to some extent, there are tents of all sizes available for a wide range of budgets. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for, so if you are planning to use this vital piece of gear regularly (and why wouldn’t you?!) you likely want to invest in one made of high-quality, durable materials. While a place like WalMart can make some great entry-level outdoor gear, a more specialized brand might be more worthwhile and lead to a more enjoyable outdoor experience.

Weight also is a large determinant of the price range. Lighter weight (but still durable) materials are typically high-tech and therefore can get pretty expensive. But again, you get what you pay for - in this case, saving your back from aches and pains when you’re miles (or days) into a trek. If your budget is tight, you can sacrifice some comfort and carry a few extra pounds in exchange for keeping your wallet plump.

Now you should be equipped with a solid foundation of knowledge to dive into the myriad tent options available at your local gear shop, or the even wider online options. Take some time to plan out your trip, think through your needs, and then get shopping.