Lightweight tents (2-person)
In this comparison, we review a number of ultralight two-person tents. Here we focus on the most important factors for backpackers traveling lightweight: weight (with and without poles), ease of pitching, livability, durability and weather resistance.
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The tents we compare are specifically for the backpacker looking for a tent with the best balance between weight, comfort and ease of use.
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It is important to keep in mind the difference between a trekking tent and a normal tent with poles:
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With trekking tents, you use the poles for pitching, which means you need to carry less weight. They are perfect for ultralight backpackers who want to minimize their load.
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Special pole tents, or a “normal” tent with poles, have their own poles and offer more stability and a more robust structure, making them ideal for harsh conditions or if you don't use trekking poles.
Why choose one tent over another?
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Choose a tent with trekking poles if you care about saving weight and already use trekking poles.
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Choose a tent with dedicated poles if you need more stability or travel in harsh weather conditions.
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Key aspects in our comparison:
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Weight (with and without poles): Weight is crucial for long-distance hiking, especially when every gram counts.
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Ease of set-up: The easier and faster the better, especially in difficult weather conditionsigh.
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Livability: Space, headroom and comfort for two people, especially for multi-day trips.
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Durability: Material quality, resistance to abrasion and overall longevity.
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Weather resistance: Performance in various weather conditions - wind, rain and snow.
Rating table
Zpacks Duplex Tent (2P)
The Zpacks Duplex is known as one of the lightest tents on the market. It is a minimalist's dream and ideal for trekkers and ultralight backpackers.
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Weight approximately (with poles): 705 g (1.55 lbs) with two 250 g poles
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Approximate weight (without poles): 455g (1.0 lbs)
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Price: ~$699
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Required poles: Requires 2 trekking poles (not included)
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Material: Dyneema composite fabric (DCF)​
Reviews (out of 10):
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Weight: 10
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Ease of set up: 7
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Liveability: 6
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Durability: 8
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Weather resistance: 7​
Alternative use: Excellent as an emergency shelter or for ultralight solo adventures where space is less important.
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
A very popular freestanding tent with impressive living space and easy to set up. Although slightly heavier than trekking pole tents, it offers great comfort and weather protection.
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Weight approx: 1,420g (3.13 lbs)
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Weight without poles: NA (comes with poles)
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Price: ~$499
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Required poles: Comes with dedicated aluminum poles
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Material: Ripstop nylon
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Ratings (out of 10):
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Weight: 6
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Ease of set up: 9
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Liveability: 9
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Durability: 8
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Weather resistance: 8
Alternative use: Perfect for camping in less remote areas or on a road trip because of its comfort and ease of use.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2
The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is a versatile tent with a good balance of weight, durability and weather protection. It is a popular choice for multi-day backcountry treks.
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Weight approx: 1,710g (3.77 lbs)
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Weight without poles: NA (comes with poles)
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Price: ~$479
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Required poles: Comes with dedicated poles
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Material: Ripstop nylon with Xtreme Shield coating
Reviews (out of 10):
Weight: 5
Ease of set up: 9
Liveability: 9
Durability: 9
Weather resistance: 9
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Alternative use: Excellent for wet and windy environments where you need extra durability and weather resistance.
Durston X-mid 2P PRO
The X-mid 2P PRO is a favorite among ultralighters for its intuitive design and excellent space-to-weight ratio. With trekking poles, it is light, yet spacious enough for two people.
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Weight approx. (with poles): 850 g (1.87 lbs) with two 250 g poles
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Weight (without poles) approx: 600g (1.32 lbs)
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Price: ~$599
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Required poles: Requires 2 trekking poles (not included)
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Material: Dyneema for ultralight performance
Rating:
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Weight: 9/10
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Ease of set-up: 8/10
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Liveability: 8/10
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Durability: 8/10
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Weather resistance: 8/10
Alternative use: Excellent for bikepacking thanks to its compact size and easy setup.
Durston X-mid 2P
A slightly heavier version of the PRO, but still very light and known for ease of set-up and strong performance in inclement weather. It is a choice for lightweight trekkers who want more headroom and space.
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Weight approximately (with poles): 1,255g (2.76 lbs) with two 250g poles
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Approximate weight (without poles): 1,005g (2.22 lbs)
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Price: ~$299
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Required poles: Requires 2 trekking poles (not included)
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Material: Polyester
Rating:
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Weight: 7/10
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Ease of set up: 9/10
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Liveability: 9/10
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Durability: 8/10
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Weather resistance: 9/10
Alternative use: Ideal for car camping because of its comfort and ease of set up.
Tarptent Notch
A compact trekking pole tent that is a favorite among solo ultralight hikers, but is also suitable for two people. It is durable, lightweight and excellent for rugged adventures in the backcountry or remote areas.
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Weight approx: 905 g (2.00 lbs) with two 250 g poles
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Weight approx (without poles) 655g (1.44 lbs)
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Price: ~$314
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Required poles: Requires 2 trekking poles (not included)
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Material: Silnylon
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Rating:
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Weight: 8/10
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Ease of set up: 8/10
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Liveability: 6/10
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Durability: 7/10
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Weather resistance: 8/10
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Alternative use: Great for thru-hiking or solo winter treks where sturdiness is critical.