Choosing the right two-person backpacking tent can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re tackling long treks, facing unpredictable weather, or looking for the best balance between weight and comfort, there’s a perfect tent for you.
When selecting a tent, key factors include weight, durability, weather resistance, ease of setup, and interior space. In 2025, backpackers have more options than ever, with advancements in materials and design improving performance across the board.
To help you find the best option for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top two-person backpacking tents available on REI and Amazon, broken down into four key categories: Best Overall, Best Ultralight, Best Budget, and Best for Bad Weather.
Comparison of the Best Two-Person Backpacking Tents
| Tent Model | Packaged Weight | Floor Dimensions | Floor Area | Peak Height | Doors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P | 3 lbs. 6 oz. | 90 x 50 in | 31.3 sq. ft | 42 in | 2 |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 | 3 lbs. 2 oz. | 86 x 52 in | 29 sq. ft | 40 in | 2 |
| NEMO Hornet OSMO Ultralight 2P | 2 lbs. 8 oz. | 85 x 50 in | 27.5 sq. ft | 39 in | 2 |
| LANSHAN Ultralight 2P | 2 lbs. 6 oz. | 83 x 43 in | 23 sq. ft | 43 in | 1 |
| Kelty Grand Mesa 2P | 4 lbs. 8 oz. | 85 x 54 in | 30 sq. ft | 43 in | 1 |
| BISINNA 2P Camping Tent | 5 lbs. 5 oz. | 86 x 51 in | 31 sq. ft | 43 in | 1 |
| MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 | 3 lbs. 14 oz. | 84 x 50 in | 29 sq. ft | 39 in | 2 |
| REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ | 4 lbs. 11 oz. | 90 x 54 in | 33.75 sq. ft | 42 in | 2 |
Best Overall
NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P Tent
💰 Price: $499.95 | ⚖️ Weight: 3 lb 14 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 90 x 50 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 31.3 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 42 in
A well-balanced tent that excels in comfort, space, and durability, the NEMO Dagger OSMO 2P is a top-tier choice for backpackers who want a high-performance shelter. It offers an excellent weight-to-space ratio, easy setup, and advanced waterproofing, making it ideal for a variety of conditions.
Honorable Mention: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent
💰 Price: $549.95 | ⚖️ Weight: 3 lb 2 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 88 x 52 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 29 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 40 in
This tent is a favorite among backpackers due to its lightweight yet spacious design. The high-volume architecture maximizes livability without adding unnecessary weight, and its durable materials hold up well over extended trips.
Best Ultralight
NEMO Hornet OSMO Ultralight 2P Tent
💰 Price: $399.95 | ⚖️ Weight: 2 lb 1 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 85 x 50 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 27.5 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 39 in
For those prioritizing weight savings, the NEMO Hornet OSMO 2P is an outstanding ultralight option. Despite its featherweight design, it still provides excellent ventilation, weather resistance, and interior space for a minimalist shelter.
Honorable Mention: LANSHAN Ultralight 2P Tent
💰 Price: $150 | ⚖️ Weight: 2 lb 4 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 84 x 47 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 27 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 42 in
This budget-friendly ultralight tent is a great alternative for those looking to cut weight without spending a fortune. It’s a non-freestanding design, requiring trekking poles, but offers impressive protection and durability for the price.
Best Budget
Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Tent
💰 Price: $179.95 | ⚖️ Weight: 4 lb 1 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 85 x 52 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 30 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 39 in
A fantastic budget option that doesn’t skimp on quality, the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P provides an easy-to-set-up, durable, and weather-resistant shelter at an affordable price. It’s a great entry-level backpacking tent.
Honorable Mention: BISINNA 2P Camping Tent
💰 Price: $89.99 | ⚖️ Weight: 4 lb 9 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 82 x 55 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 31.2 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 41 in
For those seeking an even more budget-conscious option, the BISINNA 2P tent offers solid performance at a fraction of the cost. It’s waterproof, windproof, and a great starter tent for casual backpackers.
Best for Bad Weather
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent
💰 Price: $549.95 | ⚖️ Weight: 3 lb 14 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 84 x 50 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 29 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 39 in
When it comes to handling harsh conditions, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2P is one of the most reliable tents on the market. With a strong, durable frame and excellent waterproofing, it keeps you protected even in heavy rain and wind.
Honorable Mention: REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent
💰 Price: $329.00 | ⚖️ Weight: 3 lb 15 oz | 📏 Dimensions: 90 x 54 in | 🏕️ Floor Area: 33.75 sq. ft | 📏 Peak Height: 42 in
Designed with enhanced stability and weatherproofing features, the Half Dome SL 2+ is a great option for backpackers who expect tough conditions. It offers a spacious interior and reinforced materials to withstand wind and rain.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right two-person backpacking tent depends on your priorities—whether it’s weight, cost, or weather protection. The NEMO Dagger OSMO is a standout for all-around performance, while the NEMO Hornet OSMO Ultralight is ideal for those looking to keep weight to a minimum. Budget-conscious backpackers will appreciate the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P, and those braving harsh conditions should consider the MSR Hubba Hubba NX.
No matter which tent you choose, investing in quality shelter ensures a safer, more comfortable outdoor experience. Happy trails!
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