Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Backpacking Tents head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
#6 on this list
Quarter Dome SL 2
REI Co-op
The REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 2 is a strong contender for backpackers looking for a lightweight, nearly freestanding tent without breaking the bank. As an 'SL' (Superlight) model, it's designed to shave ounces, and it largely succeeds. This tent is a double-wall, semi-freestanding design, offering good weather protection and condensation management. It's a great option for solo hikers who want plenty of room to spread out, or for a cozy pair who are conscious of weight and budget. The pole structure aims to maximize internal volume, and while it's not as expansive as some higher-volume designs, it's certainly comfortable enough for two average-sized individuals. We've appreciated its relatively easy setup, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The single brow pole helps to push out the sidewalls, preventing face-to-fabric contact. Dual doors and vestibules are standard, providing convenient access and external storage for gear, keeping the interior clean. The materials are lightweight, so vigilance against sharp objects is needed. For the performance and features offered at its price, the Quarter Dome SL 2 represents an excellent balance. It’s a solid, reliable choice for multi-day trips, particularly for those just dipping their toes into the ultralight world or for seasoned hikers who want dependable gear without the premium ultralight price tag. **Highlights** * Good weight-to-value ratio for a semi-freestanding tent * Relatively easy setup for a semi-freestanding design * Dual doors and vestibules for convenient access and gear storage * Adequate interior volume for two when packed efficiently * Solid weather protection and condensation management **Watch-outs** * Semi-freestanding design means the foot end must be staked * Fabrics are thin and require care to prevent damage * Interior space can feel snug for larger individuals or two with lots of gear * Vestibules are smaller than some competitors
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#7 on this list
Nims
Tarptent
The Tarptent Notch is a classic single-person, trekking pole shelter that has earned its keep in the ultralight community for years. It's a true minimalist's tent, designed for solo thru-hikers who want maximum protection for minimal weight. The Notch is unique in its double-wall hybrid design: a mesh inner tent (or solid for cold weather) is suspended inside a separate tarp fly. This allows for excellent ventilation, superior condensation management for a trekking pole tent, and the ability to pitch the fly first in the rain, keeping your inner tent dry. Setup requires two trekking poles (or optional vertical struts) and a moderate number of stakes. Once dialed in, the pitch is surprisingly stable in wind, and its low profile helps shed gales. The vestibules, accessed by folding back the fly, are small but sufficient for a pack and shoes. We’ve found its ability to handle persistent rain to be excellent. The silnylon fabric is durable for its weight, though it can absorb a small amount of water and sag slightly when thoroughly wet. For solo backpackers who are comfortable with non-freestanding shelters and prioritize ultimate weight savings without compromising too much on weather protection or condensation control, the Notch is an outstanding choice. It's a testament to efficient, functional design. **Highlights** * Extremely lightweight for a double-wall shelter * True double-wall design offers excellent condensation management * Pitches with two trekking poles * Fly-first pitch keeps inner tent dry during setup in rain * Available with mesh or solid inner for varied conditions **Watch-outs** * Requires trekking poles and practice to achieve a taut pitch * Vestibule space is minimal * Interior space is strictly for one person * Silnylon fabric stretches slightly when wet, requiring re-tensioning
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Quarter Dome SL 2 | Nims |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Double-wall, semi-freestanding | — |
| Capacity | 2 person (snug) | 1 Person |
| Best For | Solo hiker seeking space, budget-conscious duo | — |
| Weather | 3-season | — |
| Packed Size | Compact, packable | — |
| Weight Class | Lightweight | — |
| Shelter Type | — | Trekking Pole Tent |
| Minimum Weight | — | Around 25 oz (709g) |
| Material | — | 30D Silnylon |
| Pitch Type | — | Non-Freestanding |
| Inner Options | — | Mesh or Solid |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Quarter Dome SL 2
- Excellent weight-to-value ratio for a double-wall tent
- Relatively quick and easy setup
- Dual doors and vestibules enhance livability
- Effective condensation management
- Good interior volume for solo use
- Semi-freestanding design requires careful staking
- Thin fabrics demand gentle handling
- Snug for two larger individuals with extensive gear
- Vestibules are smaller than some competitors
Nims
- Exceptional weight-to-protection ratio for a double-wall tent
- Superior condensation management due to double-wall hybrid design
- Ability to pitch fly first keeps inner dry in rain
- Very compact packed size, fits easily in any pack
- Reliable weather protection for its minimalist design
- Available with mesh or solid inner for varied conditions
- Requires trekking poles and practice for optimal pitch
- Limited interior space, strictly a solo shelter
- Vestibules are small
- Silnylon sags slightly when wet, requiring re-tensioning
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