There are a number of things to keep in mind when purchasing a tent for backpacking. It is somewhat different than the requirements for a family tent. The backpacking tent should be lightweight due to the fact you will be carrying, rather then towing it. It needs to be large enough to accommodate your needs including any storage space you may need to prevent theft of valuables you may be carrying. If hiking alone, you may want to consider a 2 person size tent over the one person size backpacking tent for more comfort and peace of mind. Another thing you may want to consider is the smaller the size, the easier to heat and keep warm. An A-frame tent with a door on one end is the classic backpack tent, although depending on the size of your tent, it may have 2 doors. Here are some of the best backpacking tents on the market that I have found.
1.EUREKA TIMBERLINE 2 BACKPACKING TENT: Timberline is a preferred name in the line of backpacking tents. This one is a classic 5 pole A frame tent with a 1/2″ aluminum frame. The floor size is 5×7, center height is 3’6″ and the pack size is 6×24″. The wall fabric is 67D polyester taffeta uncoated. The fly fabric is 75D polyester with a storm shield. It’s a very sturdy tent. It can be purchased through trail tents.com for $129.95.
2. EUREKA TETRAGON 5 BACKPACKING TENT:The bathtub style floor of this tent wraps up the sides of the tent to protect against both splashing and standing water. The twin track door allows for flexibility for venting and for weather and insect protection. The ring and pin attachments make set up easy. It has 2 windows and is a 2 person size with a pack size of 4″x 25″. It can be purchased through trail tents.com for $109.99
3. REI QUARTER DOME T3 TENT: Quarter dome uses an innovative new design to create a strong, ultralight tent with a generous interior and easy setup. This tent for 3 only weighs 4 lbs.7oz. Its rectangular floor plan withe wide area headroom offers flexibility is space usage. It has a flow- through ventilation system and seam-sealed bathtub design to create a waterproof floor. It was awarded Backpacker Magazine 2008 Editors Choice award. It’s priced at $299.00 and is available at most REI Stores or on REI.com
4.BIG SKY EVOLUTION 2P: This freestanding 2 person tent earned top rankings in tests including Outside Magazine reviews. It has 2 doors and 28 sq.ft. vestibules, making it ideal for 2 people. It weighs a mere 3.25lbs. making it very easy to carry around. It is sturdy enough to withstand 80mph winds and comes with a lifetime
warranty. It won the Editors Choice Award in Backerpackers Magazine in 2007. It can be purchased at REI, Cabelas or Become Tent.com. for approx. $350.00
5. BIG AGNES THREE-WIRE E VENT BIVY: This 3 way Bivy may be an alternative to your backpacking tent. It’s ideal for the person who wants to sleep right out in the open in the great outdoors. It provides shelter from storm and a peace of mind for the solo camper. The top shelf is waterproof, while the bottom is durable lightweight cordura fabric. The e vent system is breathable, waterproof fabric that vents moisture directly to the outside keeping you dry inside. Its 3 lbs in weight and perfect for the one backpacking tent system. There’s nothing to set up, just roll it out and in a minute or 2 you’re ready for the night. It’s available through Summit Camping Gear.com or backpacking tent.com for $299.00
With the hiking season soon upon us, I hope you will find one these backpacking tents just right for your camping needs.
Sources:
Best backpacking tents.com
trail tents.com
summit gear.com
REI.com
Timberline Tents
