Backpacking can be one of the most exciting and adventurous experiences. The right tent can make all the difference, though and the wrong tent can spell disaster.
I’ve been backpacking for 15 years, and I’ve decided to use my experience to help those new to the sport choose something that will stand up to the weather while still being easy to carry. In the next section, I’ll outline my top choices for the backpacking tent under $100. Let’s dive right in!
Best Backpacking Tents under $100:
1. Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
If you’re on the hunt for a budget backpacking tent, this one from Coleman is a great choice. This warm-weather tent is weatherproofed with welded corners and covered seams, and its dome-style design makes it easy to set up in minutes. Given its surprisingly low price, this is a great option for the backpacker on a budget.
This is one of the rated tents on the list. Many buyers praise the fact that it’s a great value, and many also have said that it has excellent weatherproofing. However, some buyers have said that the poles that come with it are cheap and somewhat flimsy.
Features
- Size: comes in 2-person, 3-person, 4-person, 5-person, and 6-person
- Type: dome tent
- Durability: Very durable 75 denier flysheet material — tent can withstand winds up to 35 mph.
- Structure Stability: This is a very stable tent. While its dome structure is easy to set up, it withstands wind and environmental stress.
- Weight:
- Weather Resistance: Very weather resistant — welded corners and covered seams help keep the rain out.
- Life Expectancy: This tent comes with a one-year warranty, but if it’s taken good care of, it can last many years.
- Price Difference: Depending on size, this tent ranges from just over $50 to just over $160.
- Maintenance: This tent requires very little maintenance, but it’s a good idea to clean it thoroughly after use.
- Cleanliness: The weather-resistant material is very easy to clean, and in-tent storage pockets help you stay organized.
- Floor Options: two-person tent measures 7′ x 5′
- Wall Height: The two-person tent has a four-foot center height
- Season Rating: Best for warmer weather (spring and summer)
Pros:
- Comes from a highly reputable outdoor manufacturer
- Durable weatherproofing keeps rain out
- It’s very easy to set up
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Cons:
- The included poles aren’t of great quality
- Some buyers don’t like that you only have a screen window on the door — you can’t make the whole door a screen
2. 2-Person Camping Tent – Includes Rain Fly and Carrying Bag
Finding a cheap backpacking tent that still stands up to the rigors of the weather can be tough. And while this one isn’t the most weather-resistant tent on the list, it’s great for warmer-weather camping and backpacking. If you need a basic tent on a real budget, this is one worth checking out.
This tent has received mixed reviews. Many buyers have been surprised with how well it performs and how long it lasts, but others have said it can become completely soaked through in the rain.
Features
- Size: 2-person
- Type: dome tent
- Durability: This is a very lightweight tent, and it isn’t as durable as some options on the list.
- Structure Stability: The manufacturer doesn’t make any claims about wind resistance or general stability, but the lightweight nature of the tent and fiberglass poles means that it isn’t particularly stable.
- Weight: This is one of the more lightweight options listed here.
- Weather Resistance: This tent leaves something to be desired when it comes to weather resistance — some buyers have said that it becomes completely soaked in the rain.
- Life Expectancy: Given the price point, this isn’t a tent that most people would expect to last too long. However, some buyers have said that it lasts multiple camping trips. That said, it may be better to save your money and buy something more durable if you want a tent that lasts a while.
- Price Difference: At a little under $20, this is one of the most affordable options on the list.
- Maintenance: Like most backpacking tents, this one is pretty low-maintenance — it is a good idea to wipe down or clean after use.
- Cleanliness: This is a pretty straightforward tent to clean — there aren’t any concerns with cleanliness here.
- Floor Options: 2-person, 6/25′ x 4.80′
- Wall Height: 3.5′ at the center of the dome
- Season Rating: This very lightweight tent is best for summer trips.
Pros:
- This tent is light in weight and packs very small
- It’s extremely affordable
- It comes in a variety of eye-catching colors
- Comes with an interior storage pocket
Cons:
- It isn’t as weather-resistant as many on the list
- Some buyers have said the interior is cramped for a two-person tent
3. MOON LENCE Camping Tent
If you’re aiming to take most of your backpacking trips in the spring and summer, a budget lightweight tent is often all you need. This tent from MOON LENCE is fairly affordable, but it’s waterproof, wind-proof, and UV-resistant, making it a great choice if you want something that lasts the long haul.
This tent has received largely positive reviews. Many buyers have said that it is extremely durable and that it can be used even in rain and wind with no issues. Many of them also have pointed out that it’s an excellent value.
Features
- Size: Comes in 2-person, 4-person, and 6-person
- Type: Dome tent
- Durability: Double-layer design is built to last, and included ropes, poles, and stakes are stronger than most.
- Structure Stability: This is a very stable tent, largely because of the double-layer, wind-resistant design.
- Weight: This is a lightweight tent, although it’s a little heavier than some of the extra-light options on the list.
- Weather Resistance: This is an extra weather-resistant design, and included vents help to ensure good airflow even on rainy days. The tent fabric is also UV-resistant.
- Life Expectancy: This is a well-built tent that can last for years with proper care. However, it doesn’t seem to come with a warranty.
- Price Difference: This is a decently affordable tent — the 2-person design is around $60, and the 6-person version is around $100
- Maintenance: This is a tent that doesn’t require much maintenance. It can be set up in about 15 minutes.
- Cleanliness: There aren’t any cleanliness concerns here. You do get interior storage pockets to help keep you organized.
- Floor Options: The 2-person version has a floor measurement of 83.8″ x 59.8″.
- Wall Height: Four feet at the center of the dome.
- Season Rating: This is a fairly lightweight tent that’s best for warmer weather — you can use it in spring, summer, or early fall.
Pros:
- Wind-proof, waterproof, and UV-resistant design is great for all-weather camping
- The interior storage compartment helps you stay organized
- Removable rain fly and included air vents help keep air circulating in all weather
- It’s extremely easy to assemble
Cons:
- Some buyers have reported that rainwater can seep in at the bottom of the tent
- In some cases, buyers have reported that the tent rips easily
4. yodo Lightweight 2 Person Camping Backpacking Tent
Finding the right 2 man backpacking tent can be a challenge, but as you’ve seen on the list so far, you do have plenty of options to choose from. This tent isn’t from a very well-known manufacturer, but it’s another very affordable option that’s lightweight and packs well.
Most buyers seem to rate this tent well, although some are disappointed that it doesn’t stand up to wind or rain. Many buyers have said it offers an excellent value for the price.
Features
- Size: 2-person
- Type: dome tent
- Durability: This tent is fairly durable, but as the manufacturer notes, it doesn’t stand up well to rain.
- Structure Stability: This is a fairly stable tent that is held up by fiberglass poles. While it’s decently sturdy, it isn’t designed to withstand heavy winds and inclement weather.
- Weight: According to the manufacturer, this tent weighs three pounds, five ounces.
- Weather Resistance: This tent is designed for fair-weather camping. It comes with a rain fly, but it isn’t waterproof.
- Life Expectancy: While this tent doesn’t come with a warranty, it can last for years if it’s used mostly in fair weather.
- Price Difference: This tent is around $30, making it one of the most affordable 2-person tents on the list.
- Maintenance: This tent requires very little maintenance. Some buyers have said that they chose to coat it with silicone waterproofing spray, though.
- Cleanliness: There aren’t any major cleanliness issues with this tent, although it’s wise to clean it after use to prevent any dirt buildup.
- Floor Options: The floor measures 83″ x 55″
- Wall Height: At the top of the dome, it measures 43 inches in height.
- Season Rating: This tent is best for warmer weather (spring and summer) without rain.
Pros:
- This is one of the most affordable tents on the list
- It’s extremely lightweight and easy to pack
- It comes in a variety of interesting colors
- For a two-person tent, the floor is fairly spacious
Cons:
- It isn’t designed to be waterproof
- Some buyers have noted that the tent still lets rain in, even if treated to be weatherproof
5. River Country Products Trekker Tent 2
If you’re looking for a 2 person hiking tent but want something other than a dome tent, this is a great option. This tent is designed to be used with your trekking poles, but you can also use it with a stick that is over 42 inches in length. As a bonus, it’s also a very lightweight option.
Most buyers seem to like this tent. It’s a great option for those who don’t want to add too much extra weight to a pack, and it’s easy to set up. However, as I mentioned earlier, it may be good to invest in a heavy tarp for use in very heavy rain.
Features
- Size: 2-person
- Type: Pole tent
- Durability: This is a very durable tent. It does not come with tent poles (which are often the first thing to break on very cheap tents).
- Structure Stability: This is a very stable tent that can work with a variety of different setup options (with trekking poles, strung between trees, etc.).
- Weight: According to the manufacturer, this tent weighs just over two pounds with the included lightweight stakes.
- Weather Resistance: This tent is very weather-resistant, but for torrential downpours, most people prefer to also have a tarp to hang over the tent.
- Life Expectancy: This simply designed tent can last for years, although the manufacturer does not seem to provide a warranty.
- Price Difference: This is one of the more affordable tents on the list — it’s around $50. However, keep in mind that it is designed to be used with trekking poles, which are not included.
- Maintenance: This tent requires little to no maintenance — just be sure to clean it as needed.
- Cleanliness: This tent doesn’t present any issues with cleanliness, although it’s a good idea to periodically hose or wipe it down.
- Floor Options: The floor measures 5′ x 7′, making it one of the most spacious options on the list.
- Wall Height: The center of the tent measures 42 inches high
- Season Rating:
Pros:
- Can be used with trekking poles, minimizing weight when backpacking
- Very spacious interior
- Included vents help ensure adequate airflow
- This can be put up in many ways
Cons:
- Some buyers have said that the seams are not sealed properly, which leads to water leakage
- If you don’t have trekking poles (or don’t need trekking poles), you might prefer a tent that includes poles
6. Toogh 3-4 Person Camping Tent
There is no shortage of options when it comes to affordable camping tents. This option from Toogh is a little different — it’s made using the concept of a dome tent, but unlike most dome tents, this one is hexagonal. It has two doors and extra-dense mosquito netting, and it’s designed to be waterproof, too.
This tent has received great reviews buyers have said it’s big enough inside to fit a queen mattress. A few people have said it took a bit to figure out the setup, but most buyers have found setting it up to be fairly easy.
Features
- Size: Fits 3-4 people
- Type: Dome tent (hexagonal)
- Durability: This is a very durable and well-made tent. It has a silicone waterproof coating, and the dense mesh is especially rip-resistant.
- Structure Stability: This tent is designed to be stable, and it can stand up to significant wind.
- Weight: According to the manufacturer, this tent weighs 13 pounds
- Weather Resistance: This tent is designed to be especially waterproof. It’s silicone-coated for water resistance, and it comes with a rain fly for inclement weather.
- Life Expectancy: This tent comes with a one-year warranty for quality, and there is a 15-day money-back guarantee for any reason.
- Price Difference: This tent is a bit on the pricier side of the list, as it sells for around $100.
- Maintenance: This tent doesn’t require much maintenance, and it’s designed to be quick and easy to set up.
- Cleanliness: You shouldn’t have any issues cleaning the tent, although the manufacturer warns against running it through a washing machine.
- Floor Options: The manufacturer doesn’t list the exact size of the tent, but it can comfortably sleep 3-4 people.
- Wall Height: At the top, the tent is about 50″
- Season Rating: This is a good three-season tent, although some buyers have used it in winter as well.
Pros:
- The hexagonal design optimizes airflow and space
- The spacious interior is comfortable enough for 3-4 people
- Two-door design is especially convenient
- The door can also be set up as an awning
Cons:
- Heavier weight makes this one harder to pack and take backpacking
- This is more expensive than some on the list
7. Bessport 2 Person Tent for Camping
If you’re looking for a lightweight 2-person tent, this one is a great option. It comes in 1-person, 2-person, and 4-person configurations. It’s especially lightweight, but it has two doors and several other convenience features that make it a great option for your next backpacking trip.
This tent has been reviewed well by most people many buyers like that it has two doors and zippers that don’t catch. They also have praised the fact that it’s both waterproof and free-standing.
Features
- Size: 1-person, 2-person, and 4-person
- Type: Dome tent
- Durability: This is a very durable tent that is designed to stand up to the elements, even on long trips.
- Structure Stability: This is a very stable structure, and it’s designed to be freestanding, meaning you can move it without having to disassemble it.
- Weight: This tent is fairly lightweight at 5.2 pounds (for the 2-person version).
- Weather Resistance: This tent is waterproof and stands up well to wind.
- Life Expectancy: This tent can last for years. There’s no formal warranty, but the manufacturer states that they will refund or replace your purchase if there’s a problem.
- Price Difference: This is one of the more expensive tents on the list, as it’s around $80.
- Maintenance: This is a tent that requires very little maintenance. It can be set up in 150 seconds and disassembled quickly.
- Cleanliness: This tent doesn’t present any cleanliness problems — it’s a good idea to periodically clean with a hose or sponge.
- Floor Options: 87.8″ x 33.5″ floor space in a 2-person tent
- Wall Height: The tent is 43.5″ tall at the top of the dome.
- Season Rating: This is a good three-season tent, especially because it is reliably waterproof.
Pros:
- Freestanding design is easy to move when needed
- Can be assembled very quickly
- It comes in a variety of bright colors
- It’s spacious and well-ventilated
Cons:
- It’s a bit expensive
- Some buyers have said that the tent material is very thin
8. Featherstone Backpacking Tent – Lightweight 3-Season Tent
This two-person backpacking tent is a bit expensive compared to many on the list, but it has some standout features. It has a bathtub floor design, meaning it’s elevated above the ground. Sealed seams help keep water out, and this tent comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Most consumers seem to like this tent they’ve praised the raised floor and sealed seams. Many of them have also said that this tent is an excellent value.
Features
- Size: 2-person
- Type: Dome tent
- Durability: This tent is durable and weather-resistant. It’s also more rip-resistant than most.
- Structure Stability: This is a stable tent that is designed to be freestanding, so it can be moved after it’s been assembled.
- Weight: This tent weighs 6 pounds.
- Weather Resistance: This is a very weather-resistant tent with a full-coverage rain fly for extra protection.
- Life Expectancy: This is a tent that is built to last, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
- Price Difference: This tent is a bit over $100, so it’s more expensive than many on the list.
- Maintenance: This tent doesn’t require much maintenance, and it’s been designed to only need occasional cleaning.
- Cleanliness: Aside from the routine cleaning, this tent doesn’t need much.
- Floor Options: 84″ x 51″
- Wall Height: 43″ at the top of the dome
- Season Rating: This is a three-season tent suitable for camping in spring, summer, and fall.
Pros:
- Extra-weatherproof design withstands even tough weather conditions
- This tent is lightweight and packs easily
- Comfortable ground cover
- It’s an excellent value for the price
Cons:
- Some buyers have said that the poles are prone to breakage
- Some buyers have said that the screen doesn’t fit tightly to the frame
9. Weanas Professional Backpacking Tent
If you need a budget 3-person backpacking tent, this may be an option. While this isn’t a very well-known brand, this tent seems like the real deal. It’s solidly waterproof, and while it’s made of thin material, it manages to be rip-resistant.
Most buyers seem to like this tent they’ve praised the two-door design and durable workmanship. The added front vestibule also provides a great option for storage space.
Features
- Size: 1-2 person or 3-4 person
- Type: Dome tent
- Durability: This is a very durable, rip-resistant, and weather-resistant tent.
- Structure Stability: This tent can stay stable in even high winds.
- Weight: This tent weighs just over 4 pounds.
- Weather Resistance: This is a water-resistant and double-layered tent that resists even heavy rain.
Life Expectancy: While this tent doesn’t come with a warranty, it is well-made and can hold up even through long backpacking trips. - Price Difference: This tent isn’t the most expensive on the list, but it’s somewhat midrange priced — the 2-person tent is around $70.
- Maintenance: This tent doesn’t require much maintenance, and it’s designed to be easy even for one person to set up.
- Cleanliness: Like most tents, this one just needs to be cleaned occasionally.
- Floor Options: 85″ x 51″
- Wall Height: 41.2″ at the top of the dome
- Season Rating: This tent is suitable for three-season use.
Pros:
- The front door can be used as an awning
- The two-door design makes it so you don’t have to climb over someone else to get out
- The dual-layer design offers plenty of protection in wind and rain
- Outer later can be used independently as a sunshade
Cons:
- Some buyers have said that the floor is too thin
- The tent can’t be fully closed up without the rain fly
10. FLYTOP 3-4 Season 1-2-person Double Layer Backpacking Tent
If you’re choosing a backpacking tent and want one that can handle colder weather, this is a great option. It comes with a snow skirt for colder weather, and it’s designed to stand up against rain, snow, and sediment.
Most reviewers seem to like this tent some have said that it can be left set up for weeks with no water leakage. However, some have said that it could be warmer.
Features
- Size: 2-person
- Type: Dome tent
- Durability: This is one of the most durable tents on the list — it’s made of anti-tear material and is designed for use in even in bad weather.
- Structure Stability: This is a sturdy tent with a freestanding design.
- Weight: This tent weighs about 6 pounds.
- Weather Resistance: This is one of the most weather-resistant options on the list. The rainfly even has pop-up windows for good ventilation.
- Life Expectancy: This tent doesn’t come with a warranty, but many buyers have said that it holds up well even with extensive use.
- Price Difference: This tent is around $100, making it one of the more expensive ones on the list.
- Maintenance: This tent doesn’t require much maintenance, although it might take a little longer to set up than some on the list.
- Cleanliness: This tent is designed to resist sediment, so it remains fairly clean on its own.
- Floor Options: 59″ x 83″
- Wall Height: 45.28″
- Season Rating: This is a four-season tent.
Pros:
- The durable design stands up to even terrible weather
- Mesh wall panels keep bugs out and also keep it warmer in winter
- The lightweight design is good for backpacking
- Freestanding design
Cons:
- Some reviewers have said the tent could be warmer
- Some buyers have said this tent is made of cheap material
What Should You Look For When Buying
Choosing a backpacking tent is a challenge, and that challenge can be difficult if you’re looking for a good tent on a budget. Before you buy, here are some things to consider.
Weight
If you’re car camping or otherwise not needing to carry your gear, this may not be a concern. However, if you’re backpacking, keeping the weight of your pack down can make a huge difference. Check out the weight of any tent you plan to pack with you.
Weatherproofing
Nobody plans to camp in the rain, but if you find yourself stuck in bad weather, there’s nothing worse than getting soaked in a tent. Be sure to look to see whether a tent you’re considering has sealed seams and weather-resistant fabric. If you want to save some money, you can always purchase a tent designed for fair weather and weatherproof it yourself.
Floor Material
Many less-expensive tents have very thin floors. To prevent water seepage, some campers opt to purchase a tarp to place under the tent. If you want something a little more comfortable, you might want to purchase a tent with a reinforced bottom. These do add some weight to your pack, but they can make it easier to sleep on hard ground.
Making the Decision
I think any of these tents would be a good choice, but my top pick is the Coleman Sundome (the first one on the list). This tent comes from a well-known manufacturer, and it’s an incredible value.
Of course, if you’re looking for a backpacking tent under 100 (or at any price really), this list is a great place to start. Take your time, read the specifications carefully, and enjoy your new tent!
