How to choose a
lightweight backpacking tent

To choose the best lightweight backpacking tent you carefully have to define your needs. The right choice is a matter of personal preference. However, when backpacking the weight is critical. You will feel every extra gram with every step .... so for backpacking you have to combine low weight with strength and safety.


Size

What size would be sufficient for your activity and how many will it sleep?

Check the dimensions because one manufacturers roomy 2-person tent might be the same as another brand 3-person model.

In general however you can assume that a 2-person model will be just sufficient for two, while a 3-person tent will be comfortable for two. On one hand the larger tent you pick the heavier it gets, on the other it's better to have more space than not enough? It's your decision. Tip: If in doubt buy a bigger version.


Price and quality

What amount of money you have to spend to get the best backpacking tent for your needs depend largely on the quality you are looking for. Of course there is a relation between price and quality. My own experience is that high quality backpacking camping equipment in the long run is cheap gear. See what tent I picked as the best lightweight backpacking tent for my needs.

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