Photo: Brian Ricketts
What To Look For
Purchasing a backpacking tent requires careful consideration and research before making a final decision on your purchase. Keep in mind that you will be carrying your new "mobile home" on your back and often times across rough terrain. Providing comfort while remaining lightweight are two key factors to contemplate while narrowing down your options.
Backpacking tents come in a variety of styles designed for different activities and environments. Three-season tents work for most seasons, except harsh winters where a four-season tent provides comfort and shelter from inclement weather. Many ultra-light backpackers will choose a two-season tent, which is a much lighter option but provides minimal shelter and warmth in winter conditions. Once you have decided which style would work best for your needs, your next question is size. As the number of backpackers a tent can house increases so does the weight. If you plan on sharing a tent with a partner or need extra space for gear, your best bet is to stick with a two-person tent.
Also consider the setup of the tent: Is it freestanding or will it need stakes to hold it up? Generally a non-freestanding tent will have less poles to carry but will prove to be more difficult setting up in rocky terrain. Traditional backpacking tents have a "double-wall" design, while some newer designs offer a "single-wall" option. Often lighter in weight but more expensive, "single-wall" tents work best in colder climates due to the lack of ventilation.
Common Pitfalls
Avoid purchasing a tent sight unseen. Visiting an outdoor retailer will give you the chance to put together potential backpacking tents and climb inside to get a firsthand look. Once the tent is set up, you might realize that there is less headroom than you expected or the vestibules lack a sufficient amount of storage space for gear.
Where To Buy
A number of online retailers and local outfitters sell quality tents for backpacking. You can often find discounts on high-quality tents online at Trails.com, REI.com or Backcountry.com. If you are looking to get a tent for a trip starting the following weekend, consider saving money on shipping costs and buying a tent at a nearby store.
Cost
Backpacking tents are an investment that will last several seasons if they are cared for properly. Avoid the temptation to purchase a poor quality tent at a discount store; you will get exactly what you pay for, and they can be much heavier to carry. Three-season tents made from quality materials will generally cost $150-$350. If a four-season or "single-wall" extreme weather tent is what you are searching for, expect to pay $300 to $500.
