Best Backpacking Tents Under $300: Top 8 Picks
You know that magical feeling of waking up to birdsong in your cozy tent?
That shouldn’t cost you a month’s rent.
Whether you’re new to hiking or ready to upgrade your quality backpack, finding the right tent makes all the difference.
I’ve spent many nights in tents in everything from gentle summer breezes to spring thunderstorms. Trust me – your back and your wallet will thank you for reading this guide.
Quick question: Have you ever wondered why some ultralight tents cost more than your monthly groceries? Well, they don’t have to.
Let’s explore some amazing options for starting camping that won’t break the bank.
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Quick Guide
Here’s a quick rundown of the 8 best options under $300:
- Durston X-Mid 1P – 28 oz, $240
- Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo – 26 oz, $250
- 3F UL Lanshan 2 – 39 oz, $187
- Featherstone Backbone 2P – 43.5 oz, $250
- NEMO Aurora 2 – 5 lb 10 oz, $300
- REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 – 5 lb 15 oz, $229
- Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2 – 4 lb 1 oz, $280
- Kelty Wireless 2 – 4 lb 13 oz, $200
Quick Comparison
| Tent | Weight | Price | Key Benefits | Weather Protection (1-5) | Setup Ease (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durston X-Mid 1P | 28 oz | $240 | Double-wall, 2 vestibules | 4.5 | 4.0 |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | 26 oz | $250 | Single-wall, pyramid shape | 4.0 | 3.5 |
| 3F UL Lanshan 2 | 39 oz | $187 | Double-wall, dual doors | 3.5 | 3.5 |
| Featherstone Backbone 2P | 43.5 oz | $250 | PU-coated silnylon, corner struts | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| NEMO Aurora 2 | 5 lb 10 oz | $300 | Freestanding, spacious | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 | 5 lb 15 oz | $229 | Freestanding, durable | 4.0 | 4.5 |
| Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2 | 4 lb 1 oz | $280 | Lightweight, quick setup | 3.5 | 4.0 |
| Kelty Wireless 2 | 4 lb 13 oz | $200 | Color-coded poles, tough | 3.5 | 4.5 |
These tents balance weight, durability, and affordability.
The Durston X-Mid 1P offers the best overall package, while the 3F UL Lanshan 2 is the budget king. For easier setup, go with freestanding options like the NEMO Aurora 2 or REI Trail Hut 2.
Your choice depends on your priorities: ultralight backpacking, weather protection, or comfort.
What Are The Best Backpacking Tents Under $300?
We’ve put these tents through their paces, spending countless nights in the wilderness.
Here’s our roundup of the top lightweight tents under $300 for 2024:
1. Durston X-Mid 1P
Why This Tent Stands Out
Picture having a personal mountain refuge that weighs less than your water bottle. The Durston X-Mid 1P (or 2P) isn’t just another tent – it’s like having a pocket-sized palace for your adventures. It comes
The Good Life Inside
Remember playing with origami as a kid?
The X-Mid’s clever design feels like that – but instead of paper cranes, you get:
- A surprisingly roomy 90-inch length (yes, even my 6’4″ friend fits comfortably!)
- Two doors so you’re not doing yoga moves to get outside
- Enough space to sit up and actually change clothes (81-inch width)
- Smart storage spots for your midnight snacks and morning coffee supplies
Ever wondered how much living space you need? The X-Mid answers that perfectly with its 32-inch width – just enough to feel cozy without being cramped.
Weather Warriors, Rejoice
The X-Mid? Quiet as a mouse and dry as toast.
Here’s why:
- Waterproof rating that laughs at rain (3,500mm!)
- Clever peak vents that keep the inside fresh, not foggy
- Four-stake setup that stands strong when winds howl
Smart Features You’ll Love
- “Setup so easy, you could do it in the dark with a headlamp”
- Magnetic door catches (no more fumbling with toggles)
- Two vestibules for storing muddy boots and keeping your gear dry
| Weight | Floor Area | Peak Height | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 oz | 20 sq ft | 46 inches | $240 |
Money Talk
At $240 for the standard version, this tent delivers premium features at a surprisingly reasonable price. The ultralight Dyneema version costs more ($639), but we’re focusing on the budget-friendly option here.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What You’ll Love:
- Feels like a $500 tent at half the price
- Sets up faster than instant noodles cook
- Built tough enough for years of adventures
- Packs down smaller than a sleeping bag
Watch Out For:
- You’ll need trekking poles (but they’re worth having anyway)
- The first setup might take some practice (like anything worth doing)
- Condensation can show up in humid weather (but the vents help manage it)
Bottom Line
Would I trust this tent on a week-long backcountry trip? In a heartbeat. The X-Mid 1P proves that “budget-friendly” doesn’t mean compromising on quality or comfort. It’s the tent I recommend to both my ultralight-obsessed friends and my “I just want something reliable” hiking buddies.
“After two years of heavy use, the X-Mid lives up to the hype. It nails the sweet spot between weight, durability, size, weather protection, and cost.” – Ryan Wilson, Outdoor Gear Reviewer
2. Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
Why This Tent Stands Out
Meet the tent that performs magic– tiny on the outside, surprisingly roomy inside.
The Lunar Solo is recommended for solo hikers who want space to stretch without carrying extra weight. Its hexagonal design proves that clever engineering can create space from seemingly nowhere.
The Good Life Inside
Ever wished your tent felt more like a studio apartment? The Lunar Solo delivers:
- A whopping 26 square feet of living space (that’s room for you and ALL your gear)
- Tall enough to sit up and change clothes (49-inch peak height!)
- A generous 8.5 square foot vestibule (think: covered front porch for your boots)
- “It’s like having a bachelor pad in the backcountry”
Weather Warriors, Rejoice
The Lunar Solo comes ready for mother nature’s mood swings:
- 3,000mm waterproof rating handles serious downpours
- The hexagonal shape deflects wind efficiently
- A strategic venting system manages moisture
Smart Features You’ll Love
- Sets up in less time than brewing coffee (under 2 minutes!)
- High vents that keep air flowing
- Mesh panels for stargazing on clear nights
- Front vestibule transforms into a viewing deck
Tips: This tent is not seamed sealed when you buy it. Let Six Moon Design do it for you.
Money Talk
At $230, you’re getting premium features without the premium price tag. Think of it as buying a reliable car instead of leasing a luxury vehicle – it gets you there just as well, with money left for adventures.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What You’ll Love:
- Lighter than your camp kitchen (just 26 ounces!)
- Packs down small enough to forget it’s there
- Built tough for years of trail life
- Spacious enough to host a gear explosion
Watch Out For:
- Single-wall design means possible condensation (but those vents help!)
- Needs proper staking (like planting a garden, location matters)
- Not freestanding (but who needs that when it’s this light?)
Bottom Line
Can one tent really do it all? The Lunar Solo comes pretty close. Perfect for solo adventurers who want their tent to feel like a home, not a coffin. It’s the tent that makes you wonder why anyone carries more weight than they need to.
| Weight | Floor Dimensions | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 26 oz | 90 x 48 x 49 in | $250 |
3. 3F UL Lanshan 2
Why This Tent Stands Out
Picture getting ultralight tent features at budget-friendly prices – that’s the Lanshan 2’s superpower. This clever double-wall shelter has earned a devoted following among savvy backpackers who know great value when they see it.
The Good Life Inside
Ever shared a tent that felt more like a sardine can? The Lanshan 2 solves that problem:
- Sprawl out in 210cm length (that’s 6’9″ for tall folks!)
- Enjoy reasonable headroom at 125cm height
- Two doors mean no midnight gymnastics
- “Like a backpacking palace for two”
Weather Protection Features
The Lanshan 2 comes ready for mother nature’s challenges:
- 15D silicone-coated nylon fly beads water like a duck
- 20D silicone-coated nylon floor keeps ground moisture at bay
- Double-wall design fights condensation effectively
- Available in both 3-season and 4-season versions
- The tent has a waterproof index of 2000-2500 mm
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Trekking pole setup saves weight in your pack
- Dual vestibules for organized gear storage
- Multiple ventilation options
- Strategic guy-out points for stability
| Weight | Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 39 oz | 2-person | $187 |
Money Talk
At $190, this tent delivers remarkable bang for your buck. Think about it: you’re getting ultralight materials and smart design features at half the price of premium brands.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- Weighs just 2.53 pounds (lighter than some solo tents!)
- Spacious enough for two real humans.
- Quality materials that punch above their price point.
- Versatile setup options for different conditions.
Watch Out For:
- Stock pegs might need upgrading for serious adventures.
- Line locks take some practice to master.
- Needs proper ground for stake placement.
- Some initial adjustments help optimize performance.
Bottom Line
Want premium features without the premium price tag? The Lanshan 2 proves you don’t need deep pockets for a reliable ultralight shelter. Perfect for budget-conscious adventurers who refuse to compromise on quality.
Think of it as the “hidden gem” of backpacking tents – those in the know love it for combining premium features with wallet-friendly pricing. While it might need a few tweaks to reach its full potential, the value here is undeniable.
4. Featherstone Backbone 2P
Why This Tent Stands Out
Think of the Backbone 2P as the smart shopper’s ultralight tent. It proves that cutting weight doesn’t mean cutting corners or emptying your wallet. This clever shelter delivers features typically found in tents costing twice as much.
The Good Life Inside
Ready to stretch out in the backcountry? The Backbone 2P delivers comfortable living space:
- Sprawl out in 84 inches of length (that’s 7 feet of stretching room!)
- Enjoy a generous 50-inch width at the head end
- Stand up(ish) with 47 inches of peak height
- “Like a lightweight living room for two”
Weather Protection Features
The Backbone 2P comes prepared for nature’s mood swings:
- 20D Silnylon construction with 2000mm waterproofing
- Strategic peak vents fight the condensation battle
- Taut pitch design sheds wind effectively
- Two vestibules keep gear dry in storms
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Dual doors eliminate the midnight crawl-over
- Quick-pitch design (once you’ve practiced)
- Lightweight but durable materials
- Compact packed size
Money Talk
At under $300, you’re getting ultralight features without the ultralight price tag. Consider this: most tents in this weight class cost nearly twice as much.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- Impressively light at 2 pounds 11.5 ounces
- Roomier than many premium ultralight tents
- Two doors and vestibules for easy living
- Quality materials that inspire confidence
Watch Out For:
- Single-wall design needs ventilation attention
- No rain gutters on vestibule zippers
- Trekking poles required for setup
- Needs solid staking for proper pitch
Bottom Line
Looking for ultralight features without the premium price? The Backbone 2P hits that sweet spot where lightweight design meets wallet-friendly pricing. Perfect for adventurers who want to go light without going broke.
Think of it as the “savvy hiker’s secret weapon” – all the essential features of more expensive ultralight tents, wrapped in a package that won’t require a second mortgage. While it has its quirks (what tent doesn’t?), the value proposition here is tough to beat.
5. NEMO Aurora 2
Why This Tent Stands Out
The Aurora 2 is like that friend who always makes sure everyone’s comfortable. While not the lightest in our roundup, it feels like a portable palace. NEMO designed this tent for campers who believe comfort shouldn’t end where the trail begins.
The Good Life Inside
Ever wished you could actually stand up in your tent? The Aurora 2 comes close:
- Towering 52-inch peak height (tallest in our lineup!)
- Two large doors for easy in-and-out
- Generous vestibules that swallow gear
- “Like a backcountry hotel room” as many users describe it
Weather Protection Features
Built to handle nature’s temperamental moods:
- Robust 68D polyester fly laughs at rain
- 1500mm waterproof rating keeps you dry
- Strategic venting prevents the dreaded condensation
- Included footprint adds extra ground protection
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Color-coded poles make setup foolproof
- Symmetrical design means no wrong-way pitching
- Full mesh panels for stargazing
- Pockets exactly where you need them
Money Talk
Around $250-$300 buys you a tent that could easily pass for a more expensive model. Plus, the included footprint (usually a $40-60 extra) sweetens the deal.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- Palace-like interior space
- Built tough for years of adventures
- Intuitive setup even in the dark
- Included footprint saves money
Watch Out For:
- Not winning any ultralight contests at 5.51 lbs
- Might be overkill for solo adventures
- Floor needs extra care in heavy rain
- Pack space becomes a premium
Bottom Line
Prefer comfort over counting ounces? The Aurora 2 makes no apologies for prioritizing living space over ultralight design. Perfect for weekend warriors, car campers, and backpackers who believe good sleep equals better adventures.
Think of it as your “comfort first” backcountry shelter – ideal for those who want their outdoor home to feel more like a cabin than a bivvy. While serious ultralight hikers might keep walking, weekend adventurers will find their perfect match.
6. REI Co-op Trail Hut 2
Why This Tent Stands Out
The Trail Hut 2 is like that reliable friend who never lets you down – maybe not the flashiest, but always there when you need it. REI designed this tent for anyone who wants to start backpacking without emptying their savings account.
The Good Life Inside
Want room to actually move around?
The Trail Hut 2 delivers comfortable living:
- Sprawling 88 x 52 inches of floor space (that’s 31.7 square feet!)
- Stand-friendly 40-inch peak height
- Two large D-shaped doors for easy entry
- “Like a mini apartment in the woods” as beginners often say
Weather Protection Features
Ready for three-season adventures:
- Reliable polyester fly with 1500mm waterproof rating
- Included footprint prevents ground moisture
- Roll-up fly doors for ventilation control
- Freestanding design handles various terrain
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Color-coded poles prevent setup headaches.
- Generous vestibules protect gear from weather.
- Multiple pockets keep essentials organized.
- Freestanding design for easy site selection.
Money Talk
At $229, including the footprint, this tent delivers serious value. Many competitors charge extra for a footprint alone, making this a budget-friendly complete package.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- Beginner-friendly setup
- Built to handle regular use
- Excellent space-to-price ratio
- No-nonsense weather protection
Watch Out For:
- Weighs in at 5 lbs 15 oz (not for ultralight purists).
- Design prioritizes function over fancy features.
- Might feel basic compared to premium options.
- Better for weekends than thru-hikes.
Bottom Line
Looking for a reliable starter tent? The Trail Hut 2 proves that “budget-friendly” doesn’t mean “cheap.” Perfect for weekend warriors and backpacking beginners who want dependable shelter without complex features.
Think of it as your “gateway tent” to outdoor adventures – sturdy, straightforward, and ready to help you discover if backpacking is your thing. While experienced ultralight hikers might look elsewhere, this tent opens the door for countless new outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2
Why This Tent Stands Out
The Salt Creek SL2 is the summer camping champion of our lineup. Think of it as your personal breeze-catching oasis. Big Agnes designed this tent for those perfect starry nights and warm-weather adventures where ventilation becomes your best friend.
The Good Life Inside
Dream of the perfect summer camping setup? The Salt Creek delivers:
- Three doors (yes, three!) for ultimate flexibility
- Awning mode for shade or stargazing
- Full mesh walls for maximum airflow
- “Like sleeping in a well-ventilated treehouse” as campers often describe
Weather Protection Features
Built for those perfect summer adventures:
- Quick-pitch rainfly when the weather turns.
- The included footprint protects your investment.
- Versatile awning configuration.
- Strategic guy-out points for stability.
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Color-coded poles make setup a breeze.
- Multiple configuration options.
- Abundant headroom and living space.
- Thoughtful storage solutions throughout.
Money Talk
At $280, you’re investing in a specialized warm-weather shelter that doubles as a fair-weather palace. The included footprint adds extra value to the package.
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- The ventilation system is top-notch.
- The three-door design is uniquely versatile.
- The setup couldn’t be simpler.
- The awning feature adds living space.
Watch Out For:
- Not your best friend in cold weather.
- Mesh walls mean everyone can see in without the fly.
- Carries a bit more weight than minimalist options.
- Really shines in summer, less so in shoulder seasons.
Bottom Line
Love warm weather camping? The Salt Creek SL2 could be your perfect match. This tent excels when ventilation and versatility matter more than gram-counting or winter worthiness.
Think of it as your “summer sanctuary” – perfect for those who camp when the days are long and the nights are warm. While winter campers should look elsewhere, warm-weather warriors will find their ultimate comfort zone.
8. Kelty Wireless 2
Why This Tent Stands Out
The Kelty Wireless 2 is the budget champion that refuses to compromise on essentials. While it won’t win any ultralight competitions, it offers something arguably more valuable: rock-solid reliability at a price that makes camping accessible to everyone.
The Good Life Inside
Want room for two plus all your gear? The Wireless 2 delivers surprising comfort:
- 29 square feet of living space (stretch out!)
- Massive 20 square feet of vestibule space
- Room for two people and their weekend essentials
- “Like a tank that happens to be a tent” as happy campers say
Weather Protection Features
Built to handle Mother Nature’s mood swings:
- Tough 68-denier polyester fly keeps rain where it belongs
- Sturdy fiberglass poles stand up to wind
- Quality aluminum stakes included
- No-nonsense weather protection
Smart Features Worth Noting
- Simple, reliable setup
- Abundant vestibule storage
- Sturdy materials throughout
- Beginner-friendly design
Money Talk
At $120, this tent redefines value for money. You could buy two and still spend less than some ultralight options – though you might need a pack mule to carry them!
Real Talk: Pros and Heads-Up
What Shines:
- Built like a brick house
- Price that’s hard to believe
- Generous gear storage
- Reliable weather protection
Watch Out For:
- Hefty at 7 lbs 5 oz (about as heavy as a gallon of water)
- Packs like two watermelons
- Basic amenities (forget fancy storage pockets)
- Ventilation needs attention on humid nights
Bottom Line
Shopping on a tight budget? The Wireless 2 proves that affordable doesn’t mean cheap. Perfect for car camping, music festivals, or anyone who values durability over fancy features.
Think of it as your “gateway to the outdoors” – not the lightest or fanciest tent, but possibly the most accessible way to start camping without worrying about gear failure. While thru-hikers will want something lighter, weekend warriors will appreciate its bomb-proof construction and wallet-friendly price tag.
Our Testing Process
We analyzed these tents based on:
- Technical specifications and materials
- User reviews and community feedback
- Weather resistance ratings
- Space-to-weight ratios
- Setup complexity and design features
- Value for money
Side-by-Side Comparison
Let’s compare our top 8 lightweight tents under $300. This breakdown will help you find the best tent for your needs.
Weight and Price
Weight matters for backpackers.
Here’s how our picks stack up:
| Tent Model | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | 1 lb 10 oz | $260 |
| Durston X-Mid 1P | 1 lb 15 oz | $240 |
| 3F UL Lanshan 2 | 2 lb 7 oz | $187 |
| Featherstone Backbone 2P | 2 lb 11.5 oz | $250 |
| Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2 | 4 lb 1 oz | $280 |
| Kelty Wireless 2 | 4 lb 13 oz | $200 |
| NEMO Aurora 2 | 5 lb 10 oz | $300 |
| REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 | 5 lb 15 oz | $229 |
The Lunar Solo is the lightest, while the 3F UL Lanshan 2 is the cheapest. The NEMO Aurora 2 maxes out our budget at $300.
Features and Weather Protection
Here’s what each tent offers:
| Tent Model | Key Features | Weather Protection (out of 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Durston X-Mid 1P | Double-wall, 2 vestibules, 46″ peak height | 4.5 |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | Single-wall, pyramid shape, great ventilation | 4.0 |
| 3F UL Lanshan 2 | Double-wall, dual doors, quick pitch | 3.5 |
| Featherstone Backbone 2P | PU-coated silnylon, corner struts, dual vestibules | 4.0 |
| NEMO Aurora 2 | Freestanding, near-vertical walls, spacious | 4.5 |
| REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 | Freestanding, roomy, durable build | 4.0 |
| Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2 | Lightweight, quick setup, roomy interior | 3.5 |
| Kelty Wireless 2 | Color-coded poles, tough construction, budget-friendly | 3.5 |
The Durston X-Mid 1P and NEMO Aurora 2 lead in weather protection, thanks to their robust designs and quality materials.
Setup Ease
How easy is each tent to pitch?
Here’s our take (5 is easiest):
| Tent Model | Setup Ease (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| NEMO Aurora 2 | 4.5 |
| REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 | 4.5 |
| Kelty Wireless 2 | 4.5 |
| Durston X-Mid 1P | 4.0 |
| Featherstone Backbone 2P | 3.5 |
| Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2 | 4.0 |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | 3.0 |
| 3F UL Lanshan 2 | 3.5 |
The freestanding designs of the NEMO Aurora 2, REI Co-op Trail Hut 2, and Kelty Wireless 2 make them the easiest to set up, especially for beginners.
Each tent shines in different areas.
Ultralight options like the Lunar Solo and X-Mid 1P save weight but need more setup skill. Tents like the Aurora 2 and Trail Hut 2 offer more space and easier setup but weigh more. Your perfect tent depends on what you value most – weight, space, ease of use, or weather protection.
What to Look For
Shopping for a lightweight tent under $300?
Here’s what you need to know:
1-Wall vs 2-Wall Tents
Single-wall tents are lighter and often cheaper, but they’re not great in wet weather. Double-wall tents? They’re heavier but handle moisture better.
| Feature | Single-Wall | Double-Wall |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Condensation | More | Less |
| Weather Protection | Good | Better |
| Ventilation | Not great | Better |
| Price | Often cheaper | Usually pricier |
One hiker who used a single-wall tent for 3.5 months said:
NEVER buy a single-wall tent.
Ouch. Double-wall tents like the Durston X-Mid 1P might be worth the extra weight.
Self-Standing vs Stakes
Freestanding tents? Easy to set up anywhere. Non-freestanding? Lighter, but need good ground for stakes.
The NEMO Aurora 2 stands on its own. The 3F UL Lanshan 2 needs stakes. Your call, based on where you camp.
Weather Ratings
Most tents in our list are 3-season: good for spring, summer, and fall. 4-season tents exist for winter, but they’re heavier and pricier.
Want better weather protection? Look for solid rainflies and strong poles, like in the Featherstone Backbone 2P.
Size and Comfort
Bigger isn’t always better when you’re carrying it on your back. Here’s a quick size guide:
| Tent Type | Floor Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1-person | 15-20 sq ft | Solo hikers |
| 2-person | 25-35 sq ft | Couples or space lovers |
The Durston X-Mid 1P gives you 20 sq ft and a 46-inch peak height. Not bad for one person.
Air Flow
Good airflow keeps you dry and comfy. Look for mesh panels and lots of vents. Double-wall tents usually win here.
The REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 has great ventilation. Your sweaty sleeping bag will thank you.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing these eight options, it’s clear that “budget-friendly” doesn’t mean sacrificing quality.
Picking the right lightweight tent under $300 can make or break your outdoor trip.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Balance is everything. You want a tent that’s light, tough and keeps you dry.
The Durston X-Mid 1P nails this at just 28 ounces while standing up to nasty weather.
For most campers, double-wall tents like the NEMO Aurora 2 or REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 are the way to go. They’re better at handling condensation and keeping you dry.
Think about sizing up. A 2-person tent like the 3F UL Lanshan 2 gives solo campers extra room to spread out. Or it’s cozy for two.
Most tents we’ve looked at work for spring, summer, and fall. That’s perfect for most people hitting the trails.
Setup matters too. Freestanding tents like the NEMO Aurora 2 are easier to pitch, especially on rocky ground. But non-freestanding options like the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo can shave off some weight.
Here are some quick tips:
Set up your new tent at home first. Make sure you have all the parts and know how it works before you’re out in the wild.
Not sure what you want? Rent a few different tents. It’s a great way to test drive before you buy.
Look at the little things. Vestibules for gear storage, multiple doors, and good ventilation can make a big difference.
Spend smart. These tents are under $300, but investing in quality now can save you money later. The Durston X-Mid 1P, at $240, gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
