Packaged weight: 4 lbs. 1 oz. Floor dimensions: 90 x 32 in. Capacities: 1P, 2P, 4P What we like: Bargain-basement price and good feature set
Category: Budget Tents
A premium two-person backpacking tent can cost upwards of $500, but not everyone needs best-in-class performance. Casual weekenders and those just dipping their toes into backpacking can save a lot of money with a budget design. These tents are often heavier and less engineered than top-shelf models, but they’re nevertheless well-built and will keep you protected in a storm. REI Co-op dominates the value scene, but our list also includes tents from brands like Nemo, MSR, Big Agnes, The North Face, and more. For additional information, see the comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Packaged weight: 4 lbs. 8 oz. Floor dimensions: 85 x 54/45 in. Capacities: 1P, 2P, 4P What we like: Inexpensive, durable, and lightweight. What we

Packaged weight: 5 lbs. 4 oz. Floor dimensions: 88 x 54/46 in. Capacities: 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P What we like: A unique mix of features

Packaged weight: 5 lbs. 14 oz. Floor dimensions: 87 x 50 in. Capacities: 2P, 3P What we like: Durable fabrics and good livability for a

Packaged weight: 4 lbs. Floor dimensions: 88 x 52 in. Capacities: 2P, 3P What we like: Lightweight for a budget tent. What we don’t: Cramped

Packaged weight: 5 lb. 7 oz. Floor dimensions: 88 x 52 in. Capacities: 2P, 3P What we like: Massive interior space and a premium feature

Packaged weight: 6 lbs. Floor dimensions: 84 x 50 in. Capacities: 1P, 2P, 3P, 4P What we like: Sturdy pole structure and solid canopy fabric

REI’s spacious budget tent is durable, easy to pitch, and impressively sturdy in high winds

REI’s 2021 update to their legendary Half Dome series was a success: the design is lighter but still impressively livable and well-built

Well-built and reasonably spacious, REI’s budget-friendly backpacking tent is an excellent all-around value