The Best 20 1-Person Backpacking Tents for Solo Travel

When it comes to solo backpacking, finding the right tent is crucial. A reliable 1-person backpacking tent provides shelter from the elements while keeping your pack light and your nights warm and dry. We’ve compared the best options on the market to help you find the perfect balance of space, durability, and ease of use for your solo adventures.

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Reviews

Solo 1 Person Backpacking Tent

This solo backpacking tent packs down small enough to slip into your gear bag but still offers generous interior room for a 6-footer. The two-pole design and pre-sealed rainfly make quick work of setup, while the mesh walls let in plenty of air on warm nights. When the weather turns, the reinforced floor and 14 included stakes keep you dry and secure on the ground.

Coleman Peak1 1-Person Backpacking Tent

The Coleman PEAK1 1-Person Backpacking Tent offers generous interior space with its 87-inch length and 38-inch peak height, making it surprisingly roomy for a single-person tent. Its WeatherTec Plus system features 7000-series aluminum poles that handle winds up to 45 mph, while the 68-denier polyester floor fabric protects from moisture. The star view window lets you unzip from the inside for nighttime stargazing or improved ventilation.

Browning Talon 1-Person Tent

This lightweight one-person tent combines strength with style through its 7000 series aluminum poles and weatherproof poly-cotton fabric. The full-length door keeps you dry while the no-see-um mesh panels let in plenty of airflow. With roomy 25-inch headroom and solid construction, the Talon 1 proves that great tents can be both traditional and modern at the same time.

Six Moon Designs Skyscape Scout 1 Person Tent

This ultralight backpacking tent combines impressive weather resistance with thoughtful design features like roll-back vestibules and ample ceiling height. The dual-pole structure demonstrates remarkable stability, whether you’re camping in light breezes or severe storms. At just 40 ounces, the Scout manages to deliver premium performance while remaining incredibly packable.

River Country One Person Trekking Pole Tent

This ultralight backpacking tent pairs a spacious 38-inch sleeping chamber with minimal weight, coming in at just 2.8 pounds including stakes. The compact design packs down to a mere 10.5 by 6.5 inches, making it perfect for last-minute adventures or storage in a survival kit. With its simple single-pole setup and protected vestibule, it’s an intuitive choice for solo travelers who prioritize ease of use over premium waterproofing.

Teton Sports Vista 1-Person Tent

This quick-pop tent from Teton Sports stands out for its efficient setup and versatile use on both solid ground and their oversized cots. The waterproof design and generous 82-inch length provide ample room for most campers, though taller individuals might find the headspace a bit tight. The included rainfly keeps things dry, though the elite version that covers the tent and cot completely deserves a spot in your gear pack.

Teton Sports Vista 1-Person Tent

The Teton Sports Vista 1-Person Quick Tent provides an instant setup experience with its roll-out design and locking hub system. The included rainfly keeps you dry in light rain, though an upgraded version that covers the ground is highly recommended. With plenty of room for gear and a queen-sized sleeping bag, this durable tent combines comfort and practicality for solo campers.

1 Person Pop-Up Camping Tent

This single-person backpacking tent packs up small enough to keep by your door, but populates into a free-standing shelter that fits both you and your camping chair. With 11.11 square feet of floor space and a zippered back vent, it lets you sleep under the stars while keeping your weight down to just 6.6 pounds. Made in China, it’s built to last through all four seasons and comes with the convenience of hand-washing instructions for when your camping trip ends early.

Eureka Featherstone UL Obsidian 1 Person Backpacking Tent

Carrying just what you need for a solo adventure, the Featherstone backpacking tent provides a surprisingly roomy 1-person shelter despite its lightweight design. The generous 21.65 square feet of floor space and the overhead mesh gear loft make the most of the interior volume, keeping gear organized and accessible. Its freestanding structure lets you move the tent from campsite to campsite with ease, while the rainfly and waterproof floor keep you dry in changing weather.

Teton Sports Mountain Ultra 1-Person Backpacking Tent

This yellow one-person backpacking tent packs surprisingly roomy for its size, with generous vestibules that keep your gear dry and a spacious interior that lets you sit up fully without touching the fly. The dome shape and aluminum poles make it incredibly light and easy to set up in windy conditions, while the reinforced seams and heat-sealed rainfly ensure you stay dry in any weather. The built-in ventilation and clever storage design make it a practical choice for both weekend getaways and longer backpacking trips through the wilderness.

NatureHike 1 Person Pop Up Tent

This one-person tent proves surprisingly spacious, with an inner layer large enough for comfortable sleeping while keeping your gear dry in the vestibule. At just 3.63 lbs, it’s surprisingly roomy for its weight, featuring 20D nylon construction that’s both ultralight and fully seam-sealed waterproof. The quick-assembling aluminum poles let you pitching this tent in minutes, whether you’re backpacking, cycling, or car camping in various weather conditions.

Gigatent Cooper 1-Person Dome Tent

This compact dome tent sets up quickly with its shock-corded fiberglass poles and packs small enough to slip into a daypack. The 5x5-foot space provides just enough room for one person to sleep comfortably, though the interior height of 36 inches means you’ll need to curl up to fit. Built for durability with polyethylene and polyester construction, it handles light weather well, though severe storms might find it a bit too basic. The large mesh windows let in plenty of light during the day, making it a cozy spot for early morning reading or watching the stars at night.

Mountainsmith LICHEN Peak Tent

This lightweight backpacking tent packs down small enough to fit on top of your bike rack, making it perfect for those long-distance rides into the wilderness. The roomy single-room design lets you sit up straight inside, thanks to its generous 175cm height. While some might find the rainfly a bit restrictive for ventilation, the fully taped floor seams and bathtub construction keep you dry during those late-night rainstorms.

Clostnature 1-Person Tent

This ultralight hiking tent packs down small enough to slip into any backpack, with aluminum poles that make quick work of setting up in the mountains. The 210T polyester rain fly keeps you dry in unexpected storms, while the mesh walls let you breeze through hot evenings with the windows wide open. The generous vestibule by the door gives you plenty of space to stash your gear out of the weather.

camppal 1 Person 4 Season Tent

The camppal tent delivers impressive performance for its weight class, keeping backpackers dry in heavy rain and standing firm against winds up to 60 mph. Standing 2.95 feet tall with a footprint of 24 square feet, it provides adequate space for a medium build with gear while remaining surprisingly roomy for its size. At just 1.5kg including pole and rainfly, it packs down compactly and installs in under 3 minutes, making it ideal for solo adventures where every ounce counts.

The North Face Stormbreak 1 Tent

Travel Country Outfitters carries the North Face Stormbreak 1 Tent, a popular choice for both car camping and backpacking. At just 3 pounds and 7 ounces, this one-person tent offers surprisingly generous 18 square feet of floor space despite its compact size. The fully seam-taped canopy and waterproof floor keep you dry in light rain, while the high-low ventilation system ensures comfortable airflow on warmer days.

Cabelas Hiker/Biker Tent

This lightweight single-person tent combines a sleek A-frame design with durable 68-denier polyester walls to create a practical shelter for backpacking and bikepacking excursions. The no-see-um mesh screen door and built-in air vent provide decent ventilation while keeping the elements at bay. While it excels in good weather and warm conditions, the tent’s single-wall construction can lead to condensation issues in cooler temperatures, making it more suitable for spring, summer, and early fall trips.

Ozark Trail 1-Person Pop-Up Tent

This lightweight 1-person backpacking tent combines a two-pole design with dual organizer pockets for essential items. At just 4.4 pounds, it’s easy to carry on hikes or bike rides while providing enough headroom for comfortable sleep. While some users report minor drawbacks like water collection at the top of the rainfly, most agree that with proper care and modifications, it’s an excellent value for solo adventures.

Eureka Solitaire Al Tent

At just 2.5 pounds, this ultralight solo tent packs down smaller than a lunchbox but provides more than enough space for one person. The clever design lets you set it up without poles, using trekking sticks or even hanging from a tree branch. With its breathable mesh windows and dual-layered corners, it keeps you dry in any weather while staying surprisingly roomy inside.

Ampex Codazzi 1 Person Tent

This lightweight backpacking tent pairs elegant design with practical features that make it stand out in the crowded market of one-person shelters. The durable nylon body and premium construction details, like the included footprint and trekking pole compatibility, demonstrate a commitment to both performance and longevity. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time camper, the Codazzi’s thoughtful design elements and generous space will exceed expectations during your next outdoor adventure.

Buyer’s Guide

A 1-person backpacking tent is your essential shelter for solo adventures in the great outdoors. With numerous options available, selecting the right one can enhance your camping experience significantly. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a 1-person backpacking tent.

Tent Size and Space

While a 1-person tent offers minimal living space, it must provide enough clearance for you to sit up, stretch, and move around comfortably. Look for a tent slightly larger than your sleeping bag to ensure adequate room. The interior volume should be at least 37-40 square feet to prevent feeling cramped during use.

Weather Resistance

Campers in varied climates need different weatherproofing options. For year-round adventurers, choose a 3-season tent with a reliable rainfly and robust pole structure. Winter users should opt for a 4-season tent with reinforced stitching, stronger poles, and a more durable floor material to protect against snow and ice buildup.

Weight and Packability

Compact design is crucial for backcountry travel where every ounce counts. Look for tents weighing between 2-4 pounds that pack down small enough to fit in a 2-literStuffSack. Consider designs with internal pole stanchions that prevent bends and twists during compression.

Setup Ease and Stability

Since you’ll be pitching this tent in various locations, consider models with quick-pitch designs that minimize setup time. The footprint should place poles in stable positions, and the footprint itself should form a stable base. Some designs feature vestibules connected to the rainfly for additional storage space while maintaining a simple setup process.

FAQ

What is the best 1 person backpacking tent?

Choosing the right 1 person backpacking tent depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like weight, size, weather resistance, and ventilation. Popular options include the MSR Hubba Hubba, North Face Summit Wall, and MSR Fusion, each offering unique features and performance.

When comparing tents, read reviews that detail the manufacturer’s claims about features and performance. Consider the weight of the tent as an essential factor, as lighter tents generally offer better portability.

How do I choose the right size for a 1 person backpacking tent?

A properly sized tent ensures comfort and adequate space for gear. Measure your body length and add a foot or two for movement, then check the tent’s specifications. Most 1-person tents list dimensions for a single occupant, so select a tent that matches your measured body length.

Additional space is valuable for storing gear and reducing condensation. Tents that are at least 6 feet long usually provide the best balance between spaciousness and portability.

What features should I look for in a 1 person backpacking tent?

The most important features include vestibules for gear storage, fly panels for weather protection, and poles that assemble easily. Consider freestanding design for better wind resistance, and opt for tents with aluminum poles for durability and weight savings.

Invest in a tent with at least one window or door vent for improved airflow, and look for a rainfly with sealed seams to prevent leaks. The vestibule floor should be rain-resistant and provide enough space for a backpack and boots.

How much does a 1 person backpacking tent weigh?

The weight of a 1 person backpacking tent varies significantly based on materials and design. Basic nylon tents typically weigh between 2 and 3 pounds, while ultralight options made from lightweight materials can weigh as little as 1.5 pounds.

Pay attention to the total weight of the tent system, which includes stakes, guylines, and a rainfly. For backcountry trips, opting for a tent under 2 pounds is generally recommended for easy portability.

Can I fly fish with a 1 person backpacking tent?

Fly fishing requires specific gear that might not fit comfortably inside a standard 1 person backpacking tent. Consider a tent with extra space in the vestibule for your fishing equipment, waders, and rods.

Check the tent’s design for easy access points to the vestibule while fishing. Some tents feature large zippered doors or multiple vestibules to accommodate outdoor enthusiasts with gear-heavy trips.

What is the weather range for 1 person backpacking tents?

The minimum temperature rating for 1 person backpacking tents typically ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 to -4 degrees Celsius). This rating assumes proper layering, dry sleeping gear, and adequate insulation.

Invest in a tent with a high water-resistant rating (6,000-10,000mm) and a properly sealed floor to protect against heavy rain and snow. Always check the specific weather rating for your chosen tent model, as it may vary between manufacturers.

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