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5 Best Lightweight 2 Person Tents for Ultralight Hiking

Updated: Apr 19

If you're planning a backpacking or camping trip, having the right tent can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment. One key factor to consider is the weight of the tent, especially if you're carrying it on your back for extended periods. That's why we've compiled a list of the best lightweight 2-person tents currently on the market.


In this article, we'll provide an overview, technical specifications, pros and cons, and user reviews for five top contenders: Near Zero 2 Person Tent, MSR Freelite 2 Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent, MIER LANSHAN 2 Pro Tent, Naturehike Taga 2 Person Tent, and Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent. Whether you're an experienced ultralight hiker or new to the game, this article will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect lightweight tent for your needs.


Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent:


The Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a lightweight and easy-to-setup tent. It is designed for backpackers and campers who want a spacious and comfortable shelter without the added weight.

Technical Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 85 x 54 x 42 inches

  • Weight: 4 lbs / 1.83 kg

  • Floor Area: 29 square feet

  • Vestibule Area: 7 square feet

  • Packed Size: 16 x 7 x 7 inches



Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry on backpacking trips

  • Affordable price point for those on a budget

  • Quick and easy to set up with color-coded clip construction

  • Good ventilation with mesh walls and ceiling

  • Full coverage rainfly provides protection from rain and wind

  • Spacious enough for two people with gear

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for extreme weather conditions

  • The vestibule area is relatively small

  • The tent may not be as durable as higher-end options

User Reviews:


Users generally appreciate the affordability and ease of setup of the Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent. Many have used it for backpacking trips and find it to be a great value for its price point. Some have reported issues with water seeping in during heavy rain, so it may not be the best option for wet weather conditions.


Overall, it is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight and budget-friendly option for camping or backpacking trips.


Weight: 4 lbs
Price: $ 159
Final Score: 8.5/10


 

Naturehike Taga 2 Person Tent:


The Naturehike Taga 2 is a lightweight and compact tent designed for two people. It weighs only 3.7 pounds and is easy to set up, making it a great choice for backpacking and camping trips. It features a freestanding design with two doors and vestibules, providing easy access and ample storage space.

Technical Specifications:

  • Capacity: 2 people

  • Weight: 3.1 pounds / 1.4 kg

  • Floor dimensions: 82.7 x 53.1 inches

  • Peak height: 43.3 inches

  • Packed size: 17.7 x 5.5 inches

  • Materials: 20D nylon with silicone coating, 7001 aluminum poles

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a backpack

  • Freestanding design with two doors and vestibules provides convenient access and ample storage space

  • Good ventilation with multiple vents to prevent condensation buildup

  • Durable materials and construction ensure longevity

Cons:

  • Slightly smaller than some other 2-person tents, so may not be suitable for tall individuals or those who want extra space

  • Not as waterproof as some other tents, so may require additional waterproofing treatment in wet conditions

User Reviews:


Users praise the Naturehike Taga 2 for its lightweight and compact design, as well as its easy setup and ample storage space. Some users note that it can be a bit cramped for two people, especially if they are tall or have a lot of gear. Others suggest using additional waterproofing treatments for wet weather conditions.


Overall, the Naturehike Taga 2 Person Tent is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and compact tent for backpacking and camping trips. Its freestanding design, ample storage space, and good ventilation make it a top contender in the best lightweight 2 person tent category.


Weight: 3.1 lbs
Price: $ 119
Final Score: 8/10


 

MIER LANSHAN 2 Pro Tent:


The MIER LANSHAN 2 Pro Tent is a lightweight and sturdy backpacking tent designed for two people. It is made with high-quality materials and comes with a number of features to ensure comfort and protection in the great outdoors.

Technical specifications:

  • Weight: 2.2 lbs / 1 kg (including footprint and stakes)

  • Dimensions: 86.6 x 53.1 x 43.3 inches

  • Floor area: 29.1 square feet

  • Vestibule area: 6.5 square feet

  • Packed size: 18.1 x 4.7 inches

  • Material: 15D nylon fabric with silicone coating (fly and inner tent), 20D nylon fabric (floor)

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact design, ideal for backpacking and camping trips

  • Easy to set up and take down, with color-coded poles and clips

  • Durable and high-quality materials, including waterproof and breathable fabric

  • Good ventilation, thanks to the mesh panels and adjustable vents

  • Provides good protection from the elements, with a waterproof rainfly and bathtub floor

Cons:

  • The vestibule is small and may not provide enough space for storing gear

  • The tent may not be suitable for very windy or snowy conditions, as it is not the most stable in strong gusts or heavy snowfall

User reviews:


Many users praise the MIER LANSHAN 2 Pro Tent for its lightweight design, ease of use, and good ventilation. They appreciate the quality of the materials and the protection from the elements that the tent provides. However, some users note that the tent may feel a bit cramped for two people, especially if they have a lot of gear, and that the vestibule is small. Additionally, some users report that the tent may not be the most stable in very windy or snowy conditions.


Weight: 2.2 lbs
Price: $ 252
Final Score: 9/10


 

MSR Freelite 2 Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent:


The MSR Freelite 2 is a popular ultralight tent designed for backpacking and camping. It weighs in at just 2 pounds 15 ounces, making it one of the lightest two-person tents on the market. The tent is designed to be freestanding and easy to set up, with a durable build that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Technical specifications:

  • Weight: 2 lb / 0.91 kg

  • Floor dimensions: 86 x 50 in (218 x 127 cm)

  • Peak height: 39 in (99 cm)

  • Packed size: 18 x 6 in (46 x 15 cm)

  • Rainfly: 15D nylon ripstop 1200mm Durashield polyurethane & silicone

  • Canopy: 10D polyester micro-mesh

  • Floor: 15D nylon ripstop 1200mm Durashield polyurethane & DWR

Pros:

  • Very lightweight, making it ideal for backpacking

  • Durable build that can withstand harsh weather conditions

  • Easy to set up and take down

  • Good ventilation thanks to the micro-mesh canopy

  • Roomy enough for two people to sleep comfortably

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to other ultralight tents on the market

  • May not be suitable for very tall people due to its relatively low peak height

User reviews:


Users generally praise the MSR Freelite 2 for its lightweight design and ease of use. Many also note that it holds up well in rainy and windy conditions. However, some users have reported issues with condensation buildup inside the tent, and a few have noted that the tent may not be as spacious as they had hoped.


Weight: 2 lbs
Price: $ 449
Final Score: 10/10


 

Near Zero 2 Person Tent:


The Near Zero 2 Person Tent is a lightweight and durable backpacking tent that is designed for two people. It weighs only 2.6 pounds and has a pack size of 16 x 4 inches, making it easy to carry on backpacking trips. It is made with a 15D nylon fabric and uses a single-pole design with a trekking pole to set up.

Technical Specifications:

  • Weight: 3.5 pounds / 1.6 kg

  • Pack size: 16 x 4 inches

  • Dimensions: 87 x 49 x 43 inches

  • Floor area: 28 square feet

  • Vestibule area: 7 square feet

  • Packed weight: 2.9 pounds

  • Number of doors: 1

  • Number of poles: 1

  • Pole material: DAC aluminum

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry on backpacking trips

  • Durable 15D nylon fabric

  • Single-pole design with trekking pole saves weight and space

  • Affordable price compared to other lightweight backpacking tents

  • Comes with a footprint to protect the tent floor

Cons:

  • Only has one door and vestibule, which can be a tight fit for two people and their gear

  • The single-pole design may not be as sturdy in high winds compared to other designs

User Reviews:


Users have generally been positive about the Near Zero 2 Person Tent, citing its lightweight design and affordability as major selling points. Some have reported difficulty setting up the tent initially, but once set up, it has been reported to be durable and withstand high winds. Some users have also noted that the single-pole design can be a bit cramped for two people and their gear. Overall, it is a solid option for those looking for a lightweight and affordable backpacking tent.


Weight: 3.5 lbs
Price: $ 299
Final Score: 9.5/10


 

In conclusion, finding the best lightweight 2-person tent for your ultralight hiking needs can be a challenge, but there are a number of excellent options on the market. The Near Zero 2 Person Tent, MSR Freelite 2 Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent, MIER LANSHAN 2 Pro Tent, Naturehike Taga 2 Person Tent, and Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent all offer unique features and benefits, depending on your preferences and budget.

Overall, the MSR Freelite 2 Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent stands out as the top choice due to its exceptional quality, durability, and versatility. It is also the most expensive option, so those on a tighter budget may want to consider the Kelty Late Start 2 Person Tent or the Naturehike Taga 2 Person Tent.

No matter which tent you choose, make sure to carefully consider the technical specifications, pros, and cons of each option, as well as user reviews, before making a decision. With the right lightweight 2-person tent, you can enjoy a comfortable and safe camping experience while exploring the great outdoors.

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