How to Choose a Backpacking Tent
Quick answer: Start with how many people will sleep in it and how much weight you'll carry, then match the season rating to your conditions: a three-season tent covers spring through fall, while a four-season tent handles winter snow and wind. Choose a design you can pitch easily (freestanding or trekking-pole supported), look for enough doors and vestibules, and check for ripstop fabrics, solid zippers, taped seams and reinforced stress points.
Choosing the right tent makes a big difference in how comfortable and enjoyable your backpacking trips are. With so many options out there, it helps to work through the decision in order.
1. Identify your needs
Before buying, think about how many people will use the tent, the weather you expect, the length of your trips and the terrain you'll camp on. These factors determine the size, weight, durability and season rating you need.
2. Balance capacity and weight
A one-person tent is enough for solo trips; partners and groups need more room. Larger tents are heavier, though, so strike a balance between space and what you're willing to carry. Splitting the tent body, fly and poles between two hikers is a common way to share the load.
3. Choose the right season rating
- Three-season tents are designed for spring, summer and fall, with plenty of mesh for ventilation.
- Four-season tents are built to withstand snow loads and strong winter winds.
Whatever you choose, look for a fully waterproof rainfly and sturdy construction that can handle unexpected rain and wind, a must in the Pacific Northwest.
4. Consider design and setup
- Dome tents are popular for their stable structure and easy setup.
- Tunnel tents offer more space for their weight but can take longer to pitch and need good staking.
- Freestanding tents stand up on their own and can be pitched almost anywhere.
- Non-freestanding tents rely on stakes (and often trekking poles) to stand, saving weight.
Also compare pole material, ease of setup, and the number of doors and vestibules. Two doors make tent life easier for two people.
5. Check durability and materials
Look for ripstop nylon or polyester in the fly and floor, quality zippers and seams, and reliable poles. Reinforced stress points and double stitching are signs of a tent that will last for years with proper care. A footprint or groundsheet helps protect the floor.
Get expert help
Read reviews, ask experienced backpackers, or better yet, come talk with the camp staff at our Grand Avenue store in Portland's Central Eastside. Seeing a tent pitched and getting inside it is the best way to judge space and setup. Tents are available in-store.
Shop camp essentials
- NEMO Forte Endless Promise 20 (Men's) Synthetic bag for damp nights
- NEMO Forte Endless Promise 20 (Women's) Synthetic bag for damp nights
- Mountainsmith Apex 60 Room for multi-night trips
- Gear Aid Seam Grip WP Field Repair Kit Fix tent leaks in the field
- Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Pack Cover Keep your gear dry
Backpacking tent FAQ
Do I need a four-season tent for backpacking?
Only if you camp in winter or above treeline where snow loads and strong winds are likely. For most spring, summer and fall trips, a three-season tent is lighter and better ventilated.
Should I get a one-person or two-person tent?
Solo hikers who want the lightest pack choose a one-person tent. Many prefer a two-person tent for extra room for gear, or to share the weight with a partner.
What is the difference between freestanding and non-freestanding tents?
Freestanding tents hold their shape with their own poles and can be pitched almost anywhere. Non-freestanding tents need to be staked out, often with trekking poles, but they are usually lighter.
What materials make a tent durable?
Ripstop nylon or polyester for the fly and floor, quality zippers, taped seams, reinforced stress points and double stitching.