Best Budget Backpacking Tents of 2025

A premium two-person backpacking tent can cost upwards of $700, but not everyone needs best-in-class performance. Casual weekenders and those just dipping their toes into backpacking can save a lot of money with a budget design. These tents are often heavier and less engineered than top-shelf models, but they’re nevertheless well built and will keep you protected in a storm. Brands like REI Co-op, Kelty, Nemo, and Coleman dominate the value scene, but our top pick goes to the Big Agnes Blacktail 2. Below are the best budget backpacking tents of 2025. For additional information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks, along with details about our testing process.

Editor’s note: We updated this guide on November 13, 2025, to narrow our list to a few favorites, carefully considering testing experiences and use cases. We removed a few models that no longer stood out in terms of price and performance (you can read more in our tested and dismissed section below) and bumped a few tents up the list among our top favorites. Lastly, we swept the guide to ensure all other information was up to date at the time of publishing.
 

Our Team's Budget Backpacking Tent Picks

• Best Overall Budget Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Blacktail 2
• A Premium Backpacking Tent for Under $350: REI Co-op Half Dome 2
• Best Budget Backpacking Tent for Families: Kelty Grand Mesa 4
• Best Budget Ultralight Backpacking Tent: Durston X-Mid 2
• Best Budget Backpacking/Camping Crossover Tent: Nemo Aurora 2P
• Best Budget Backpacking Tent: Kelty Late Start 2
• Our Other Favorite Budget Backpacking Tents

Best Overall Budget Backpacking Tent

1. Big Agnes Blacktail 2 ($300)

Packaged weight: 5 lb. 8.0 oz.
Floor dimensions: 90 x 52 in.
Capacities: 2P, 3P, 4P
What we like: A versatile budget design from one of the best tent makers in the business.
What we don’t: Not the cheapest backpacking tent you can find; heavy and bulky.

Big Agnes makes some of our favorite lightweight backpacking tents, which feature high-quality construction and a great balance of performance and weight savings. In the budget category, the Blacktail is their best all-arounder. This tent offers a roomy floor plan and generous headroom thanks to pre-bent poles and a ridge pole at the apex. Ventilation is high, with a good amount of mesh in the body and two rainfly vents. Two doors and two vestibules make living easy. Finally, the Blacktail includes the same premium finishes we see in Big Agnes’ pricier designs, including details like a Quick Stash doorkeeper, media pockets with cord routing, and pre-cut guylines. 

It’s tough to call the Blacktail a true budget option, considering there are much cheaper options out there from brands like Coleman and Kelty. Still, in our opinion, it’s worth spending up a bit for the Blacktail’s weather resistance and premium features. That said, we’re on the hunt for a cheaper option to take the top spot (for years, REI’s Trail Hut 2 held this spot, but we’re sad to see it's discontinued). The North Face’s Stormbreak 2 is our most worthy contender: It has a price tag that severely undercuts the Blacktail, but it is still well-built, comfortable, and relatively lightweight. Speaking of weight, it’s worth noting that we found the Blacktail quite hefty and bulky in testing, meaning it’s best to share the carrying weight with a partner. But we can hardly complain considering how comfortable it was in the backcountry—we looked forward to crawling into it each night, especially after having spent the previous nights testing flimsier, non-freestanding tents.
See the Big Agnes Blacktail 2
 

A Premium Backpacking Tent for Under $350

2. REI Co-op Half Dome 2 ($329)

Packaged weight: 5 lb. 15.1 oz.
Floor dimensions: 88 x 52 in.
Capacities: 2P, 2+, 3P
What we like: A great combination of weight and livability for under $350.
What we don’t: Heavier and bulkier than high-end backpacking tents.

REI Co-op is a reliable name in the budget outdoor gear space, and its Half Dome 2 tent is a good example of why. This tent boasts impressive livability thanks to its steeper walls, two large doors, and ample interior storage. It was recently revamped to include more robust, sustainable materials, a new "HubCheck" system to help you know when the poles are seated correctly and secure, and ridge poles that extend farther over the entryways to provide more protection when getting in and out. We also like that the rainfly extends farther down than in the previous version, offering better weather protection.

It’s a tough choice between the Half Dome and the Blacktail above, but the Blacktail edges the Half Dome out for a few reasons: Not only will it save you a few ounces and a bit of cash, but it’s roomier thanks to its taller peak height and slightly larger floor area. That said, it’s worth pointing out that the Half Dome comes with a footprint and the Blacktail does not, so the Half Dome is actually the better deal if you want that added protection. Both designs are on the heavier side to be sure, and are more expensive than the truer budget designs below. But all told, for the best of all worlds at sub-$350, and you get REI’s standout customer service as well. If you’re worried about the cost, know that if you are an REI member, you get 10% store credit on your purchase—a big win for the Half Dome.
Read more: REI Co-op Half Dome review (2 Plus version)
See the REI Co-op Half Dome 2
 

Best Budget Tent for Families

3. Kelty Grand Mesa 4 ($210)

Packaged weight: 7 lb. 7.0 oz.
Floor dimensions: 98 x 80 in.
Capacities: 2P, 4P
What we like: Much lighter than two two-person tents.
What we don’t: Only one door; requires a large tent site.

Most of the tents here are designed to fit two sleepers—we do this both for comparison’s sake and because two-person designs are the most common and versatile size among backpackers. But if you’re traveling with children, want to mix in some car camping, or are willing to bear the extra weight burden for a roomier shelter, a four-person tent is a great solution. Within this category, the Kelty Grand Mesa 4 is a reasonably lightweight and affordable choice: For a price that undercuts the two tents above, you get sufficient room for four side-by-side sleeping pads, a generous 56-inch peak height, and durable materials throughout. And unlike the 90s-era REI tent that we spent countless nights in as kids, the Grand Mesa 4 only weighs 7 pounds 7 ounces, which is just a few pounds heavier than most two-person designs here (and pretty manageable if you split up the carrying responsibilities).

If you're considering a four-person tent, keep in mind that it’s not your only solution for family backpacking trips. Opting for two two-person tents offers more room overall (including vestibule space) and can result in a better night’s sleep for everyone. What’s more, finding two small flat spots is often easier than one large tent site, depending on the location. Finally, the Grand Mesa isn’t the most convenient option with just one door, and the mesh-heavy design isn't ideal for exposed areas or windy conditions. But for casual, below-treeline adventures and smaller parties, it’s a roomy choice and lighter than much of the competition. And specs aside, we wouldn’t trade anything for the memories of waiting out a high-country storm with the whole family, complete with a deck of cards and a good book.
See the Kelty Grand Mesa 4

Best Budget Ultralight Backpacking Tent

4. Durston X-Mid 2 ($319)

Packaged weight: 2 lb. 7.4 oz.
Floor dimensions: 92 x 52 in.
Capacities: 1P, 2P
What we like: Ultralight yet still relatively durable and spacious.
What we don’t: Trekking-pole shelters aren’t quite as user-friendly as standard tents.

In 2025, the ultralight backpacking movement has gone fully mainstream, with hikers of all kinds embracing the freedom that comes with a lightweight load. An ultralight tent is a key part of every UL kit: they weigh about 3 to 5 pounds less than traditional alternatives and have a much more streamlined packed size. Some UL tents save weight with ultra-thin materials and tapered floor plans, while others go light by using trekking poles rather than tent poles for structure. The Durston X-Mid 2 is one such trekking-pole shelter, combining a minimalist 2-pound-7.4-ounce weight with relatively durable materials and a spacious floor area. In a category where many shelters cost up to $700, it’s a true steal.

But trekking-pole shelters certainly aren’t for everyone, and especially new backpackers: They require an extra dose of attention to get a taut pitch, and the A-frame shape (rather than an arched-pole design) can compromise interior space. But after taking the Durston X-Mid 2 backpacking in Washington’s Cascade range, we were really impressed with its performance. The shelter was relatively easy to set up, withstood strong winds, and its unique offset pole design offered more livable space than many standard backpacking tents we’ve tested. What’s more, like the other tents here, its double walls allow condensation to easily escape the inner tent (most trekking-pole shelters are single-wall). All told, if you’re looking to lighten your load and willing to try something different, the Durston X-Mid is well worth a closer look. And if you’re looking for an even cheaper option (at the expense of some weight), check out Six Moon’s Lunar Duo, which is another one of our editor’s go-to choices.
Read more: Durston X-Mid 2 review
See the Durston X-Mid 2
 

Best Budget Backpacking/Camping Crossover Tent

5. Nemo Aurora 2P ($300)

Packaged weight: 5 lb. 10.0 oz.
Floor dimensions: 88 x 53 in.
Capacities: 2P, 3P
What we like: Massive interior space and a premium feature set.
What we don’t: Not as weather-worthy as the options above.

Nemo makes some of the best backpacking tents in the business, so the release of their budget-oriented Aurora certainly caught our attention. A modern take on the simple entry-level tent, the Aurora offers a large amount of livable space through pre-bent poles (the interior feels quite open with four near-vertical walls), hubs at both the head and foot ends, and a ridge pole at the center. A symmetrical design and Nemo’s intuitive hardware make set up a breeze, and you even get thoughtful features like a light-diffusing pocket and a handy roll-top stuff sack. For casual backpackers and campers who want a step up in interior space and quality from most budget tents, the Aurora is certainly worth a look. 

The downside to opting for such a roomy design is its lack of weatherproofing. Most notably, the very upright shape of the Nemo makes it vulnerable to windy weather, like what we experienced on a trip in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Additionally, weight-conscious hikers who get out a fair amount want to look for something on the lighter side. And those who are more concerned with price than build quality can save some money (and weight) by opting for the Marmot Tungsten 2P, which has a similarly spacious floor plan (though the Nemo does have more headroom). But the Aurora is a more durable choice, and it’s hard to beat the premium feel and finishes of a Nemo design. For more space for dedicated campground use (or when backpacking with a larger group), you can spend up to the Aurora 3P (88 x 73 in.).
Read more: Nemo Aurora review (3-person version)
See the Nemo Aurora 2P
 

Best Budget Budget Backpacking Tent

6. Kelty Late Start 2 ($160)

Packaged weight: 4 lb. 12.0 oz.
Floor dimensions: 89 x 54/45 in.
Capacities: 1P, 2P, 4P
What we like: Inexpensive, durable, and reasonably lightweight.
What we don’t: No rainfly vents and an all-mesh body suffer in high winds.

For the true budget seekers among us, Kelty’s Late Start is another decent backpacking tent at a very low price. This tent is about as simple as they come, with an all-mesh body and bathtub floor, a simple crisscrossing pole structure, and one door and vestibule. But set-up is a breeze with pole sleeves at each corner (this is a bit archaic, but it still gets the job done), and despite the robust 68D fly and floor, the Late Start is reasonably lightweight (for a budget tent, that is) at 4 pounds 12 ounces all in. You shouldn’t expect anything beyond the bare-bones backcountry comfort with this design, but it’s decently reliable. It can keep up with most adventures, making it a compelling design for penny-pinchers. 

Unsurprisingly, you do sacrifice some things in opting for the Late Start. To start, it doesn’t come with a footprint. In most cases, we’d have no qualms pitching this tent directly on the ground (the 68D floor is thick enough to withstand contact with sharp rocks and branches), but it’s still a noteworthy omission. Further, the Late Start features a tapered floor, limiting interior space and forcing you to sleep shoulder to shoulder with your partner. You also don’t get much in the way of storage with just three interior pockets. And finally, the all-mesh canopy is not ideal in high winds. The fly can’t be guyed out at the end to keep it off the tent body (important for ventilation and keeping rain out of the tent).
See the Kelty Late Start 2

Our Other Favorite Budget Backpacking Tents

A Lightweight Freestanding Tent

7. Big Agnes C Bar 2 ($300)

Packaged weight: 4 lb. 2.0 oz.
Floor dimensions: 86 x 52/42 in.
Capacities: 2P, 3P
What we like: Lightweight for a budget tent.
What we don’t: Cramped living quarters for two, and not very wind-resistant.

When you opt for a budget tent, there’s no escaping without a little compromise in terms of interior space or weight. But it’s a spectrum: Some tents tack on a few extra ounces for the sake of livability, while others streamline the build in order to keep weight low. Big Agnes’ C Bar 2 falls into the latter category, with a minimalist design reminiscent of their ultralight Fly Creek. You get just one door and vestibule, a mesh-heavy canopy, and a tapered roof and floor area that keeps materials to a minimum. It’s a tight squeeze for two—you won’t be able to sit up at the same time as your tent mate and will practically have to crawl over them to get in and out—but at just over 4 pounds, the C Bar 2 is the lightest freestanding design to make this list.

For solo hikers or those trying to shave weight from their pack, the C Bar 2 is a really nice budget offering. But the interior space is a far cry from models like the Nemo Aurora and Half Dome above, and you’ll have to ask yourself if it’s worth the sacrifice to save a pound and a half. Further, the simplified pole structure (just one pole down the spine) and mesh-heavy design will suffer in heavy winds. If you’re truly serious about streamlining your load, it’s worth considering a more premium tent like the Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 or Tiger Wall UL2 or opting for a trekking pole-supported shelter like the 2-pound-2-ounce Durston X-Mid above. But Big Agnes is one of the top manufacturers in the game, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a lighter freestanding tent at this price point. 
See the Big Agnes C Bar 2

A More Premium Budget Ultralight Tent

8. Tarptent Double Rainbow ($349)

Packaged weight: 2 lb. 8.1 oz.
Floor dimensions: 88 x 50 in.
Capacities: 1P, 2P, 3P
What we like: A solid value for a sturdy and relatively approachable ultralight tent.
What we don’t: Price went up recently; it's not freestanding, and seam-sealing costs extra.

California-based Tarptent isn’t a household name like REI or Nemo, but the cottage brand offers an inspiring ultralight lineup at reasonable price points. The Double Rainbow is our favorite model, featuring a unique hybrid single-wall design that keeps weight in check while maintaining impressive livability. For just over two and a half pounds, you get a reasonably thick 30D floor (15D is standard among UL tents), an aluminum arch pole to maximize headroom, a generous and symmetrical floor plan that easily fits two sleepers, and two doors and vestibules for convenient entry/exit and gear storage. Plus, the Tarptent’s hybrid single-wall construction means setup is a breeze: Simply thread the main pole through the sleeve in the rainfly and stake everything out (the “tent body” is made of mesh and hangs from the bottom of the fly). This is particularly nice in wet conditions, as there’s no point during setup when the inside of the tent is exposed to rain. 

We used to rank the Double Rainbow higher on our list, but a recent price jump caused us to reconsider. $350 is still a reasonable price for an ultralight tent ($379 with carbon fiber poles), but the Durston X-Mid 2 above is a bit roomier, slightly lighter, and cheaper. On the flip side, the Tarptent is a cinch to set up and doesn’t require the same learning curve as a trekking pole-supported design like the Durston. However, trekking poles are necessary to make it fully freestanding (otherwise, you’ll need soft ground or good anchors to get a taut pitch). Lastly, it’s worth noting that the Double Rainbow isn't seam-sealed, but it’s a fairly simple DIY project, or you can add it to your order for $35, bringing the total to $384.
Read more: Tarptent Double Rainbow review
See the Tarptent Double Rainbow
 

Tested & Dismissed Budget Backpacking Tent

We opted to remove REI's entry-level Trailmade 2 from this guide because we had less-than-satisfactory experiences testing it in Patagonia—it also appears to have been removed from REI's site. Also, Kelty's Late Start 2 has proved to be a more reliable and roomier tent within this price range. You can read our in-depth review of the Trailmade 2 for more details.

The Coleman Peak1 2P tent was also removed in this update because it has proven no longer competitive in this space. For one, it's among the priciest options on this list, but it is also one of the heaviest and smallest. For the price, we'd opt for the Half Dome or Blacktail 2.

We also removed the Marmot Tungsten 2P because it fell far behind the Nemo Aurora in testing. Though the Aurora is a bit more expensive, it's roomier, more durable, and feature-filled. For a backpacking/camping crossover design, we prefer the Aurora's headroom. For more information, see our in-depth review of the Marmot Tungsten 4P.

Lastly, the MSR Elixir 2 didn't make it into this update because it can't compare to the Blacktail or Half Dome in terms of price, livability, or weight. In fact, it was one of the smallest, heaviest, and more expensive tents that we tested in this space. It's not a bad tent by any means—and it has a premium feel—but it doesn't stack up to the top picks in our list.

Budget Backpacking Tent Comparison Table

About Our Testing Process

As longtime gear testers and reviewers, the Switchback Travel staff has watched tents soar in price over the years, so we’re intimately familiar with the plight that new backpackers face. We initially compiled a list of 10 wallet-friendly picks in 2022, and in 2024, contributing editor Nick Mott took over the guide. Nick’s time spent hauling heavy loads deep into wilderness areas all over the West has given him a keen eye for the weight, durability, and performance required of a quality backpacking tent. Editor Maddie Downie currently manages the guide. Based in Washington state, Maddie has backpacked extensively throughout the western U.S. and British Columbia and knows firsthand how important a high-quality and reliable tent is for enjoying time outside.

Our collective experience in the backcountry—along with feedback from contributors and the online backpacking community—helped us whittle down our list to the eight picks you see above. When we put backpacking tents to the test, our primary considerations are weight and livability (our favorites strike a nice balance between the two). At the same time, we also take into account weather-worthiness, ease of setup, and storage (both internal and external). Of course, price is a big factor for many, and it’s a critical ranking criterion for our budget picks above. Since the market is constantly evolving, we continue to test new and noteworthy designs and make changes to the list above based on our experiences.
 

Budget Backpacking Tents Buying Advice

• How We Define a "Budget" Backpacking Tent
• Budget Backpacking Tent Considerations
  • Weight and Packed Size
  • Interior Space
• Packaged Weight vs. Trail Weight
• Fabric Durability (Denier)
• Weather Protection
• Ventilation
• Storage: Vestibules and Interior Pockets
• Doors
• Backpacking Tent Capacities
• Set up and Take Down
• Tent Poles and Stakes
• Do You Need a Footprint?

How We Define a "Budget" Backpacking Tent

By our own definition, a budget backpacking tent costs $350 or less, with some priced as low as $100. Given that you can spend upwards of $600 on a backpacking tent (or more), there’s no denying that the models here will save you a lot of cash. Of course, it goes without saying that budget tents have their fair share of tradeoffs, especially in terms of weight, packed size, and interior space. But if you’re willing to compromise a little in those areas, the tents here are great and functional, low-cost additions to any backpacking kit.
 

Budget Backpacking Tent Considerations

Weight and Packed Size
While premium backpacking tents typically weigh 2 to 4 pounds for two-person designs, the majority of budget tents hover around 4 to 6 pounds all in (by "all in," we mean the packaged weight, which we explain in more detail below). The reason is that manufacturers can cut costs considerably by using thicker fabrics, heavier components, and less innovative engineering practices. For casual backpackers who aren’t covering too much ground or only get out a few times a year, the added 1 to 4 pounds shouldn’t be too big a downside (plus, all of the tents above include a separate tent body and rainfly, meaning you can easily split up the various components with your tent mate). However, if you’re looking to log some serious mileage or keep your backpack weight low, it may be worth investing in a lighter, more premium option.
 

In the majority of cases, packed size also increases with weight, meaning that most budget tents will take up more space in your backpack than premium models. This isn’t great news for those who like to keep a streamlined load, but most entry-level backpackers aren’t carrying sub-50-liter ultralight packs to begin with.
 

Finally, if you’re not keen to compromise on weight or packed size, there are a few other options to stay within a budget. Solo hikers can opt for a one-person tent, which will generally save you about a pound. For example, the Kelty Late Start 2 clocks in at 4 pounds 12 ounces, while the one-person version weighs 4 pounds 1 ounce. Alternatively, it may be worth considering a more affordable ultralight design like the Durston X-Mid 2 or Tarptent Double Rainbow mentioned above, which weigh just 2 pounds 2 ounces and 2 pounds 8.1 ounces, respectively. Trekking-pole shelters require a little extra care to set up—and they’re generally pricier than true “budget” options—but the weight savings will be well worth it for some. If you're looking to shed weight from your pack, check out our article on the best ultralight tents.
 

Interior Space
Livability is another area where budget backpacking tents take a real hit compared to pricier, premium models. Most two-person tents have similar floor dimensions regardless of price (and tapered designs exist in both the premium and budget worlds), but the real difference lies in headroom. Tent designers have found a lot of ways to increase a tent’s peak height throughout—including pre-bent poles, ridge poles, and steep walls—creating a lot more space to move around and sit up side-by-side with your tent mate. However, all of these tweaks cost money, so we don’t see them all too often in the budget market.
 

For those looking to maximize livability while staying within a budget, there are a few models to consider, including Big Agnes's Blacktail 2 and the Nemo Aurora 2P. These tents use the components mentioned above to maximize interior volume and provide considerably more space than simpler, bargain-basement designs. It’s true that both the Half Dome and Aurora are on the pricier end of the spectrum. Still, the extra investment may be worth it for the boost in comfort—especially for those who anticipate hunkering down in inclement weather or contending with pesky mosquitoes.
 

Packaged Weight vs. Trail Weight

When researching tent weight, you’ll commonly see manufacturers and retailers list two specs: packaged weight and trail weight (also called "minimum weight"). The former includes everything that comes with the purchase of the tent, including the tent body, rainfly, poles, stakes, guylines, stuff sacks, and footprint (when applicable). The trail weight, on the other hand, only covers the tent body, rainfly, and poles. We’ve chosen to list packaged weight in the specs above—it’s closer to what most folks realistically bring—but keep in mind that you can trim ounces from there.
 

Fabric Durability (Denier)

One of the easiest ways to think about tent durability is to consider the fabric thickness, measured in denier (the weight of the yarn). The higher the denier of the floor, canopy, and rainfly, the more durable the tent. Logically, denier lines up with weight, which is great news for budget tents (as we mentioned above, a hallmark of budget tents is their heft). For example, the premium Big Agnes Tiger Wall ($500; 2 lb. 8 oz.) has a thin 15D floor, while the 5-pound-15-ounce REI Co-op Half Dome 2 ($329) uses a robust 75D fabric. Because the area most vulnerable to punctures or tears is the floor, we list this number in the specs and comparison table above.
 

While fabric thickness is a large factor in determining a tent’s durability, it’s not the only one. The quality of the rest of the materials (poles, zippers, etc.) also plays a part, as does the attention to detail. And while premium tents often add a silicone coating (also called “silnylon”) to their thin fabrics for added tear strength and longevity, we don’t see this technology on budget designs. We’ve learned to trust the build quality of budget tents from leading manufacturers like REI, Nemo, and Big Agnes. Still, you’ll want to be a bit more careful with dedicated budget brands like Alps Mountaineering or Coleman, which specialize in the entry-level market. All that said, in most cases, increased durability is a significant and surprising benefit of opting for a budget model.
 

Weather Protection

Protection from the elements is one of the primary functions of a backpacking tent. In general, budget tents do a respectable job of keeping out wind and rain and perform on par with much of the more premium competition. Your first line of defense is a rainfly, and you’ll want to look for coverage extending below the bathtub floor of the tent body to maximize weather protection (manufacturers sometimes shorten the length of parts of the fly to save weight). A generous bathtub floor is also important for guarding against splashes and puddles. Finally, it’s important to evaluate the tent’s overall structure, including strong poles and lots of exterior ties to anchor it down in heavy winds.
 

If you’re like most backpackers and get up into the mountains just a few weekends a year during the summer months, you shouldn’t have any issue with the tents above. A full-mesh tent like the Kelty Late Start will offer the least amount of protection, while a design with more solid materials in the canopy will be a better match for bad weather. However, you’ll want to be careful not to push any of these tents too hard in extreme conditions. If heavy winds or snow are in the forecast, an actual 4-season tent will be much more capable and confidence-inspiring. We don’t see many budget designs in the 4-season category—these tents are highly engineered to handle bad weather—but there are some more affordable options to consider, including the Alps Mountaineering Tasmanian 2.
 

Ventilation

Like weather protection, ventilation doesn’t take too big a hit in the budget market. Ventilation depends on two main factors: the amount of mesh on the tent body and the quality and quantity of vents in the fly. Most budget tents have generous mesh panels, which are great for keeping air circulating—in good weather, you can even leave the rainfly off for unmitigated airflow. With the rainfly on, things get a bit trickier: Given the waterproof fabrics and sealed seams, breathability is inherently compromised. For this reason, fly vents are vital, and in general are fairly well-executed in the designs above (although they're notable omissions on the Kelty Late Start). For more on tent ventilation, see the buying advice section in our article on the best backpacking tents.
 

Storage: Vestibules and Interior Pockets

Like the higher-end competition, budget backpacking tents feature a range of storage options, including vestibules and both interior pockets and gear loops. Vestibules are indispensable for organizing your gear at camp: They cover the tent’s door while leaving enough space for items you don’t want in your sleeping area, including your backpacking pack and hiking shoes. In general, budget designs stack up very well to their pricier counterparts in vestibule space: For example, both the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 and the more premium Copper Spur UL2 have 18 square feet of vestibule space to split between two campers. However, be on the lookout for tents with just one vestibule (and door), including the Kelty Late Start and Big Agnes C Bar, as these are far less convenient for two campers to stash gear and move around comfortably (more on this below).
 

When it comes to interior storage, the budget market often has a bit less to offer. It’s standard to see fairly streamlined feature sets, including just a few pockets and gear loops. On the other hand, pricier tents might offer a wider variety of stash pockets, light-diffusing pockets, built-in light strips, thoughtfully placed gear loops, and more. In general, higher-end budget designs are a great middle ground between those two extremes, including the Nemo Aurora and REI Half Dome. If you spend a lot of time basecamping or enjoy keeping the interior of your tent organized, you'll want to opt for one of these more feature-rich options.
 

Doors

The majority of tents above feature two doors, which is by far our favorite configuration. If you plan to camp consistently with a partner, it’ll likely be your preferred setup, too. For reference, a few models above use just one door to save weight—the Big Agnes C Bar 2 has one on its end, while the Kelty Late Start puts its entry on the side. If you’re sharing the tent with a partner, this can be a major downside—you’ll be crawling over your tent mate to get in and out, and will be limited to one vestibule for exterior storage. In the end, unless you’re traveling alone or pulling out all the stops to save weight, we recommend a tent with two doors.
 

Backpacking Tent Capacities

Most of the backpacking tents above are two-person models, with floor plans that accommodate two 20-inch sleeping pads side-by-side. The two-person tent is the most popular capacity, but many backpacking models also come in one, three, and four-person designs. Solo travelers can save some weight by opting for a one-person model, while families or couples traveling with a dog can bump up to a three- or four-person model, such as our favorite, the Kelty Grand Mesa 4. It almost goes without saying that weight and packed size will increase as capacity increases, but it is worth noting that, in general, a four-person tent will be lighter than two two-person tents. For example, the Marmot Tungsten 4 checks in at 7 pounds 15 ounces, while the two-person version weighs 4 pounds 15.7 ounces (note: Both are "minimum" rather than packaged weight, as Marmot does not provide the latter spec). 
 

Set up and Take Down

Setting up a modern tent has become surprisingly easy, with simple clips and grommets that take a matter of seconds to attach and streamlined poles that come together with ease. Some budget tents even feature sleek additions more commonly seen in the premium market, including color-coded components, hubbed pole structures, and clip attachments to secure the rainfly. On the flip side, some of the more basic models forgo most of these features, and tents like the Kelty Late Start have kept things pretty old-school with sleeves to run the poles through. Gripes aside, all of the tents above are fairly quick and intuitive to pitch, even for the greenest of backpackers. The whole process usually takes just a few minutes from start to finish, which is fantastic.
 

Tent Poles and Stakes

Without getting too into the nitty-gritty on tent poles and stakes, there are a few things we want to mention with respect to budget tents. In terms of poles, most are made with simple aluminum, which is decently durable but heavier than the premium aluminum and carbon fiber found in pricier designs. Getting into the more premium side of the budget market (including models like the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 and Nemo Aurora 2P), we start to see more complex pole structures, including a ridge pole at the apex and hubbed poles, which offer greater rigidity and easier setup.
 

Most two-person budget tents will come with about six stakes: one for each corner and one for each side of the vestibule. In general, these stakes are of the hook-style aluminum variety, which are heavy and can be a pain to use: They're often too thick and round to sink easily into the ground, and they tend to bend when hammered in. To be sure, they'll do the trick for most, but upgrading isn’t very expensive. We especially like the MSR Groundhog Stakes: They are light, tough, and easy to pound into the ground reliably. 
 

Do You Need a Footprint?

We’ll start by noting that a footprint is optional—some of the tents above include one, while others do not. These simple tarps go beneath your tent (usually attaching to the poles at each corner) to provide an extra layer of protection. They’re a nice added bit of assurance to have when it’s wet (make sure to tuck them under the tent to avoid pooling, as that can have the opposite effect) or when you’re camped on rough surfaces like granite or sharp plants. That said, they add an extra cost and 5 to 10 ounces to your pack.
 

Here’s our take: For the majority of budget tents, a footprint is not really necessary. As we covered above, the tents listed here have fairly robust floors, ranging from 30D to 75D. Compared to more premium tents (which usually clock in between 15 and 30D), they’re pretty darn durable on their own. If you plan on camping on rough surfaces, tend to be careless with your gear, or don’t have the risk tolerance for a torn floor (and the subsequent repair), it might be worth taking a footprint along. But in most cases, it’s highly unlikely that your tent's floor will rip. For more information on this topic, see our article: Does Your Backpacking Tent Need a Footprint?
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