Bikepacking Tents

Cindy Garner
15 min readSep 16, 2024
Bikepacking-Tent-1

Embarking on a bicycle adventure requires the right gear, and a comfortable and sturdy shelter is crucial for a good night's sleep. In our latest article, "Bikepacking Tent: Discover the Best Options for Your Next Adventure, " we present a roundup of the top bikepacking tents on the market. By reviewing various features, such as weight, ease of set-up, and durability, we aim to help you make an informed decision and enjoy the ultimate cycling experience.

As an Amazon Associate I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you

Reviews

Paria Outdoor Products Ultralight Tent for Backpacking, Kayaking, and Bikepacking

Paria Outdoor Products Ultralight Tent for Backpacking, Kayaking, and Bikepacking | Image

The Paria Outdoor Products Bryce Ultralight Tent and Footprint is the perfect companion for your backpacking, kayaking, camping, and bikepacking adventures. This lightweight tent comes in at a trail weight of only 2 lbs 15 oz and a minimum weight of 2 lbs 4 oz, making it a top choice for those seeking a convenient and portable shelter. With an included footprint, poles, and fly, this tent is quick and easy to set up, offering a minimalist shelter for your needs.

While the Bryce 1P may not have the best weather resistance, it is a durable and well-made tent that is easy to set up. The large capacity and compact design make it a versatile option for solo travelers. The vibrant Aspen Yellow color adds visual appeal, and the tent's portability ensures it can be taken on any adventure.

The Bryce 1P and 2P tents from Paria Outdoor Products offer top-notch features, high-quality materials, and flexible pitching options, making them the ultimate companions for your backcountry escapades. With a wide variety of sizes and configurations available, this exceptional tent is the perfect choice for any outdoor enthusiast in search of a reliable and comfortable shelter.

Big Agnes Sheep Mountain 1 Bikepacking Tent

Big Agnes Sheep Mountain 1 Bikepacking Tent | Image

I recently had the chance to try the Sheep Mountain 1 Tent from Big Agnes, and let me tell you, it's a game changer! This 1-person tent is the perfect option for those who want a durable and lightweight shelter, without the hefty weight of an overbuilt model.

The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to set up. Thanks to the well-designed tent poles and reflective tabs, I was able to get it up and running in no time. The color-coded webbing and buckles made everything even more straightforward.

Inside the tent, I was pleasantly surprised by the large door and spacious vestibule. This made it easy for me to store my gear and keep it dry, which is essential when you're out in nature. The ventilation was also top-notch, keeping me comfortable on warmer nights.

One small downside was the lack of an included footprint, but overall, the tent exceeded my expectations. With its sturdy construction and 1-person capacity, it's the perfect choice for backpacking and other outdoor adventures when the need for durability and functionality outweighs the desire for ultralight weight.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Sheep Mountain 1 Tent from Big Agnes. It's the ideal balance between lightweight and overbuilt, with a wealth of features that make it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

Affordable and Lightweight Dynalite 1-Person Backpacking Tent for Bike Adventures

Affordable and Lightweight Dynalite 1-Person Backpacking Tent for Bike Adventures | Image

Experience the ultimate in solo tent adventures with Near Zero's lightweight and compact Dynalite 1-person backpacking tent. Perfectly designed for those seeking adventure, this tent is crafted with high-performance waterproof 20D ripstop nylon, providing ultimate comfort in all weather conditions. The single-pole system allows for an effortless setup, while the included compression bag ensures easy storage and handling. With a 3000mm hydrostatic rating, this tent is perfect for thrill-seekers in the great outdoors.

Naturehike Bikepacking Tent: Waterproof, Easy Set-Up, and Lightweight for 1 Person

Naturehike Bikepacking Tent: Waterproof, Easy Set-Up, and Lightweight for 1 Person | Image

Sleek, lightweight, and easy to set up, the Naturehike Bikepacking Tent is your ultimate companion for various outdoor adventures. Perfect for solo travelers, it features a spacious double layer design that offers ample room and impressive weather resistance. With a waterproof PU 4000mm rainfly and 3000mm-treated inner tent, you can stay cozy and dry in any climate. The quick and simple setup process ensures that you can spend less time pitching a tent and more time enjoying the great outdoors.

Lightweight Ascend Nine Mile 2 Bikepacking Tent: Weather Resistant, Durable, and Easy to Set Up

Lightweight Ascend Nine Mile 2 Bikepacking Tent: Weather Resistant, Durable, and Easy to Set Up | Image

Experience the outdoor adventure with the Ascend Nine Mile 2, a versatile two-person backpacking tent designed for lightweight and functional protection in any season. Boasting a comfortable side-entry design, this tent provides ample room for two, while its full-coverage rainfly and vestibules keep you and your gear dry and organized. With quick setup and easy-to-carry features, the Nine Mile 2 ensures a seamless camping experience for hikers and backpackers alike.

Ultralight 2-Person Trekking Pole Backpacking Tent

Ultralight 2-Person Trekking Pole Backpacking Tent | Image

Experience the ease and comfort of the River Country Products Trekker Tent 2.2. Designed to be quick and effortless, this two-person tent makes the perfect companion for your trekking, backpacking, or camping adventures. At just 3 lb 5 oz, it features a unique trekking pole design that ensures stability and a secure shelter.

Its versatile nature allows you to use almost any 42-inch tall stick for support, providing the option of ditching your poles altogether if preferred. Boasting dimensions of over 7 feet long, over 5 feet wide, and 42 inches high, this tent offers spaciousness rarely found in ultralight tents. Large mesh sidewalls and vents also contribute to superior breathability, keeping you cool and dry in the great outdoors.

The tent comes equipped with 8 lightweight stakes, guylines, and a carry bag for hassle-free transport and storage. The Rainfly attachment ensures you stay dry even in less-than-ideal weather conditions, making the choice of which gear to bring along even easier. Whether you're an experienced adventurer or embarking on your first excursion, the River Country Products Trekker Tent 2.2 guarantees a comfortable and memorable experience.

Gossamer Gear: Ultralight Bikepacking Tent for Adventurers

Gossamer Gear: Ultralight Bikepacking Tent for Adventurers | Image

Recently, I had the chance to use Gossamer Gear's The One Ultralight One-Person Tent Shelter on a backpacking journey. This shelter proved to be a game-changer during my trip, delivering an effortless setup and lasting protection against the elements.

One of the most impressive features was the factory-taped seams, which offered an unrivaled waterproof experience. The reflective pull-outs, robust zippers, and fully-rigged lines also made a huge difference in convenience and ensured that I could quickly set up camp.

However, one downside I encountered was the weight of the shelter. Though the One is advertised as lightweight, it still felt heavy in comparison to other ultralight options I've used. Despite this, The One's spaciousness, ruggedness, and reliability in even the most challenging conditions made it an invaluable component of my adventure.

Overall, Gossamer Gear's The One Ultralight One-Person Tent Shelter was a well-designed and functional shelter that I highly recommend to fellow minimalist campers and backpackers looking for a high-quality and lightweight option.

Scout Gn Lightweight 2-Person Bikepacking Tent

Scout Gn Lightweight 2-Person Bikepacking Tent | Image

Experience cozy camping with the Stansport Scout 2 Person Tent, a perfect shelter for you and your travel buddy. Its forest green color camouflages it with nature, allowing you to stay connected with your surroundings. The mesh door screen ensures ample ventilation and visibility without compromising privacy.

Crafted with classic scout troop camp tent design, this tent boasts an A-frame shape that efficiently sheds rain and wind. Weighing only 3.8 lbs, it's a lightweight and compact option, easy to assemble when you're ready to set up for your adventure. The tent features a 800mm P. U. coated nylon upper body and a rugged P. E. floor, ensuring durability and water resistance. The No-See-Um mesh inner door screen adds an extra layer of protection against bugs and insects.

Including 2 steel poles, ropes, stakes, and a carry bag, this tent offers a complete package for your camping trips. However, some users have reported poor weather resistance and lack of durability. Despite these drawbacks, the Stansport Scout 2 Person Tent is an appealing option for bikepacking and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, easy-to-assemble shelter on their adventures.

Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Tent - Green, 2 Person Backpacking Shelter

Big Agnes Blacktail 2 Tent — Green, 2 Person Backpacking Shelter | Image

My quest for a reliable and spacious backpacking tent led me to try out the Big Agnes Blacktail 2. I took it on an expedition in the wilderness, where it was put to the test.

First off, the tent's freestanding design meant I could pitch it on a variety of surfaces, which was particularly handy when setting up camp in rocky environments. The symmetrical structure and pre-bent poles provided ample headroom, making it a cozy retreat after a long day's trek.

This 2-person tent was roomy enough for two, with dual vestibules that came in handy when organizing our gear. The four interior mesh pockets were a game-changer, keeping essentials within easy reach and keeping them safe from water damage or theft.

However, the tent's weight (2040g) did pose a challenge at times, especially when I needed to break down camp and move to a new location. While it was a strong contender for 3-season camping, it felt a bit heavy for some of my lighter backpacking trips.

What really stood out was the product's durability. The polyester flooring and polyethylene tent footprint withstood the wear and tear of multiple camping sessions in different conditions. The rainfly was also a worthy feature, providing excellent water resistance in my rainy camping areas.

In conclusion, the Big Agnes Blacktail 2 is a top-notch pick for those seeking a reliable and spacious 2-person tent for backpacking trips. Despite its weight, it makes up for it with its durability, ample headroom, and convenient internal pockets. However, it may not be the best choice for those aiming for an ultra-lightweight experience or planning to camp in heavy winds or rainfall.

The North Face Stormbreak 1: Portable, Lightweight Camping Tent

The North Face Stormbreak 1: Portable, Lightweight Camping Tent | Image

The North Face Stormbreak 1 Tent is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight and spacious shelter for their outdoor adventures. This tent is perfect for solo trips or backpacking expeditions, offering ample space for one person while keeping weight to a minimum. The high-low ventilation system ensures optimal airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable in various weather conditions.

The tent is designed for easy setup, with two aluminum poles and an easy-pitch design. The fully seam-taped canopy and floor provide excellent protection against the elements, while the large door and vestibule offer easy access and storage space for your gear. The zipper closure ensures a secure and waterproof seal, keeping you dry during heavy rains.

Though it may be heavier than some competitors in the thru-hiking market, the Stormbreak 1 Tent offers excellent value for the price point. Its lightweight and compact design make it a great option for weekend warriors or those embarking on shorter backpacking trips. The tent's minimalist approach to design allows for easy setup and takedown, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Overall, the North Face Stormbreak 1 Tent is a reliable and versatile shelter for a variety of outdoor activities. Its perfect balance of weight, space, and features make it a popular choice among those who appreciate the great outdoors without compromising on quality and durability.

Bass Pro Shops Hiker/Biker Tent for Cyclists

Bass Pro Shops Hiker/Biker Tent for Cyclists | Image

The Bass Pro Shops Hiker/Biker tent is an ideal solo camping companion for those who enjoy lightweight adventure. Its 68-denier, 190T polyester taffeta walls and floor, along with a 1,200mm polyurethane coating, provide protection against harsh elements while maintaining a featherweight structure. Easily set up with lightweight, shock-corded fiberglass poles, the tent also offers thoughtful features like a mesh-screened door and air vent to ensure ventilation and comfort. Overall, this is a budget-friendly tent designed for warm weather adventures, albeit with some drawbacks to consider.

Two-Person A-Frame Backpacking Tent with Mesh Doors

I recently took the Stansport Eagle tent for a spin while on a camping trip, and boy, was it a game changer! This compact A-frame tent is perfect for those who are always on the move.

My first impression was how easy it was to assemble, thanks in part to the two included steel poles and the 12 easy-to-tighten stakes. I found the No-See-Um mesh inner door screen to be quite practical, offering just the right amount of ventilation during hot summer nights. But, I also discovered the tent wasn't the best at resisting moisture and rain, so it's definitely more suitable for drier camping conditions.

Don't get me wrong, it's a fantastic backpacking tent, but it would benefit from a bit of design tweaking to improve its water resistance. With all that said, it's hard to resist this orange beauty, especially when you consider its affordability and lightweight features.

The North Face Trail Lite 2: Lightweight 3-Season Camping Tent for Bikepacking Adventures

The North Face Trail Lite 2: Lightweight 3-Season Camping Tent for Bikepacking Adventures | Image

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience with the North Face Trail Lite 2 tent. This versatile tent is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures while ensuring that campers can move freely within the spacious interior. Its high-quality construction guarantees both durability and simplicity, making it a go-to choice for a luxurious escape. With its emphasis on environmental consciousness, the Trail Lite 2 boasts a robust design that keeps harsh elements at bay, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay in the great outdoors.

Ozark Trail Himont: 1-Person Bikepacking Tent with Vestibule

Ozark Trail Himont: 1-Person Bikepacking Tent with Vestibule | Image

Imagine embracing Mother Nature from the comfort of your own lightweight haven on your next backpacking journey. The Ozark Trail Himont 1-Person Backpacking Tent, featuring a vestibule, is designed to accompany you on hikes, bike rides, motorcycle escapes, and camping getaways alike. With its over 17 square feet of room and a 43-inch center height, this tent creates a comfortable nest to lay your head in a sleeping bag. The vestibule offers additional storage space and protection from the elements.

Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent for Backpackers

Ultralight Waterproof Camping Tent for Backpackers | Image

This lightweight backpacking tent is perfect for solo adventurers seeking comfort without the added weight of conventional poles. Easily pitching without any experience, this waterproof tent offers a ventilated design for a refreshing camping experience. Weighing just 2.5lbs, it's easy to pack and transport, leaving you feeling at ease and adventurous throughout your journey.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our Buyer's Guide for Bikepacking Tents! Choosing the right tent for your bikepacking adventures can be a challenging task, as there are so many models available with different features. In this guide, we will provide you with essential information to help you select the perfect bikepacking tent to fit your needs and preferences.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for a bikepacking tent, there are several factors you should consider. These include size, weight, ventilation, durability, and ease of setup. Let's discuss each of these factors in detail to help you make an informed decision when selecting your bikepacking tent.

Size and Capacity

The size of the bikepacking tent is a crucial factor that decides the overall dimensions and the number of occupants it can accommodate. A tent with a larger floor plan typically provides more living space, storage options, and mobility while biking. However, a smaller tent might be more suitable for those seeking a more lightweight option or traveling solo.

Weight and Pack Size

Weight and pack size are significant factors for bikepackers, as you might need to carry your tent on your bike for extended periods. A lightweight and compact bikepacking tent would be more comfortable to carry and easier to set up at the campsite. Look for tents with features like ultralight materials, lightweight flooring, and integrated storage pockets to save space and weight without compromising comfort and safety.

Ventilation and Airflow

Bikepacking tents should have proper ventilation to ensure a comfortable sleeping environment, especially when you're camping in warmer climates. Look for a tent with mesh panels on the walls, doors, and skylight to allow for better airflow and moisture escape. Ventilation can be improved with additional features like a tent fly or rainfly, which enables better air circulation, especially when biking in the rain.

FAQ

What is bikepacking?

Bikepacking is a type of adventure sport where cyclists camp while traveling on their bikes. It involves carrying essential gear and survival supplies in a backpack, allowing cyclists to cover great distances while spending time in nature. Bikepacking tents are specifically designed for this purpose, offering lightweight and compact designs for easy portability.

Some characteristics of bikepacking tents include low weight, minimal packed size, and easy setup. These tents are designed to withstand varying weather conditions, providing shelter while on the move or during extended camping trips. Bikepacking tents are suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want to experience remote cycling adventures.

What are the key features to look for in a bikepacking tent?

  1. Weight and pack size: Bikepacking tents should be lightweight and take up minimal space in your backpack. Look for tents with low-weight materials and a compact design for easy transport on your bike. Some tents even come with their stakes and guy lines packed separately to save additional space.
  2. Ease of setup: Setting up your tent while on the go or exhausted after a long day of cycling should not be a hassle. Look for lightweight poles and easy-to-use stakes or guylines to secure your tent in a timely manner. Some bikepacking tents feature a single pole design that makes setup fast and efficient.

How many people can a bikepacking tent accommodate?

Bikepacking tents typically come in two sizes - single-person and double-person. Single-person tents are designed for solo travelers or a single occupant, while double-person tents offer additional space for two people or for sharing gear storage with a partner. Double-person tents may also have additional features like vestibules for additional storage or shared living spaces.

Choose the right size based on your needs and the number of people in your group. Smaller tents are generally more lightweight and compact, making them ideal for solo travelers or for lightweight multi-person group trips. Larger tents may offer more comfort and space for gear storage but come at the expense of increased weight and size.

What materials are bikepacking tents made of?

Materials used for bikepacking tents primarily include lightweight nylon and polyester materials for the exterior and mesh for the doors and windows. These materials are durable and waterproof, offering protection from rain and wind while maintaining breathability during hot weather conditions. Some higher-end tents may use stronger, more lightweight materials like ultralight nylon or silicone-coated nylon.

Other design elements that contribute to the overall lightweight nature of bikepacking tents include the use of minimal seams, high-quality zippers, and lightweight pole materials. These features contribute to a streamlined, efficient design that accommodates the space-saving requirements of bikepacking while still providing a comfortable and secure shelter for use on the go.

How do I choose the right bikepacking tent?

When selecting a bikepacking tent, consider the following factors to ensure you find the right one for your needs and preferences:

  1. Size - Determine the number of people in your group and how much space you need for gear storage. 2. Weight and pack size - Assess your carrying capacity and bike's load-carrying capabilities. 3. Setup ease - Consider your own and your group's comfort level with setting up tents and ensuring stability in various conditions. 4. Weather resistance - Evaluate the expected weather conditions for your bikepacking adventures and ensure the tent you choose is well-suited to handle those conditions. 5. Additional features - Consider your specific needs, such as vestibules for extra storage, shared spaces, or a more luxurious experience with more features and amenities.

By carefully considering these factors and shopping around for the best options available, you can find the perfect bikepacking tent for your needs and enjoy your outdoor adventures without sacrificing comfort or safety. Remember to always test out your new gear before setting off on your next adventure to ensure it meets your expectations and helps you make the most of your bikepacking trip.

Can I use a regular camping tent for bikepacking?

While a regular camping tent can be used for bikepacking, it may not be the most suitable or efficient option. Camping tents are often heavier and larger than bikepacking tents, which may hinder your cycling experience both during the journey and while setting up camp. Using a regular camping tent may also result in compromising space and weight limitations for a more enjoyable cycling adventure.

For bikepacking, opt for a lightweight and compact bikepacking tent designed specifically for the purpose. These tents offer the perfect balance between portability, ease of setup, and protection from the elements, ensuring that you can focus on your cycling adventure rather than the hassles of carrying or setting up a tent. Choose a bikepacking tent that fits your needs and complements your cycling experience, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying a memorable and successful bikepacking trip.

As an Amazon Associate I receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you

--

--