If you looking for the best budget backpacking tent under 100? then look no further. Your search is now over because, in this article, I list the best of the best budget backpacking tents that will make your life outdoors something to remember.
Our article aims to simplify everything for you to enable you to get the best for your budget while we factor in features below. These tents will definitely satisfy all your needs to be easy to carry, light and dependable.
Quick Overview For the Best Backpacking Tents Under $100:
- Best 1 Person Tent: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person
- Runner Up 1 Person Tent: Naturehike Cloud-Up
- Best New Brand: Winterial Single Person Tent
- Best Pure Budget Buy: Trekker 2.2 Tent
- Best 2 Person Tent: ALPS Mountaineering Taurus
- Stretch Budget To $150: 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2
Best Budget Backpacking Tents Under $100
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Let’s dive in on these tents and explore what makes them a good choice for anyone looking for a good quality budget backpacking tent. We also will jump into the criteria we used to make our choices.
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Best 1 Person: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx
The Lynx 1 comes loaded with standout features and is great for your solo trips outdoors. With a simple freestanding design and pole clips that quickly attach to the aluminum poles, it sets up nearly instantly. Additionally, the Lynx tent walls are mostly made of mesh, which helps increase the ventilation.
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Key Features
- 2 Pole Quick Assembly – This free-standing, aluminum two-pole design is a breeze to set up.
- Factory Sealed Seams – Factory seals the fly and floor seams to give the best weather protection.
PROS
- Survived PCT Thru-Hike – 2500+ miles of wear and tear daily over 5 months without failure
CONS
- Needs Footprint – Water can leak through the floor without it.
- Not The Lightest – This tent is very heavy
Final Thoughts on the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx
ALPS is one of the most common tent makers in this list and their track record shows they create tents which can hold up to a long distance hike like a PCT, AT, or CDT trail.
When looking for a budget tent this is an excellent choice for a single person tent when you are looking to go out and spend the night.
Runner Up 1 Person: Naturehike Cloud-Up
If you are looking for an ultra-lightweight tent that can save you space, and weight. Using high-quality construction materials and equal to many top brands at only half or less of the cost.
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Key Features
- Inner Tent – Made with anti-scratch 210T Polyester & B3 breathable mesh
- 4 Seasons Tent – It has double layers can be used for many ways of camping
PROS
- Quick Setup – Less than 10 minutes from multiple reviews
- Quality Rainproofing – Withstands multiple days of severe rainfall without allowing moisture and rain inside the tent.
CONS
- Cramped For Space – Good for laying down but not much more
- Doorway – The Doorway is the highest part of the tent and makes entering foot first necessary
Final Thoughts on the Naturehike Cloud-Up
One of the favorites for backpackers as it is a nice small tent that weighs in pretty light while staying in the under $100 bracket. Definitely can serve you well until you migrate to your next tent down the road!
Trekker Tent 2.2
The Trekker Tent 2.2 is a very nice and affordable tent while being fairly lightweight and compact. It has the greatest length of all the tents making it a contender for anyone over 6′ tall.
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Key Features
- Almost a 2-Layer Tent – This tent features large meshed sidewalls and vents making it close to a full 2-layer tent.
- Compact and Lightweight – Very easy to pack, it can fit nicely in your backpack
PROS
- Big & Tall Friendly – Tent is long ( 7 feet) which helps taller backpackers
- Well Ventilated – Additional vents included to allow best airflow possible
CONS
- Trekking Poles Required – This tent requires trekking poles and some may not use them.
- No Vestibule Area – The tent is an enclosed space without additional area outside that is covered.
Final Thoughts on the Trekker Tent 2.2
One of the least expensive tents on the list it needs trekking poles but could be a solid tent for someone on a budget, some on YouTube have said they need to be seam sealed to prevent leaking water on rainy days so make sure to seal this tent just to be certain!!
Clostnature Lightweight 2 Person Tent
One name that I don’t see around backpacking circles is Clostnature but in researching I have found their gear to be very durable and loved by the people who used it frequently over other similarly priced gear.
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Key Features
- Large Vestibule – Offers more room and protection.
- 2 D-shaped Doors – 1 on each side allows you to enter or return without crossing over your partner.
- Freestanding – This freestanding structure allows you to move and relocate the tent without having to disassemble
- Ventilation Focused – Inner tent entire mesh wall creates fabulous ventilation with two ventilation windows on flysheet. No condensation will form and no insects problem
- Aircraft-grade Aluminum poles with high strength composite clip.
- Durable and smooth two-way SBS zippers protected by Velcro sleeves.
- Curtains gathering unit for your convenience
PROS
- Free Standing – Needs no trekking poles to stand up and use
- Well Ventilated – Additional vents included to allow best airflow possible
CONS
- No Footprint Included – You will need to purchase or create your own footprint.
Final Thoughts on the Clostnature Lightweight 2 Person Tent
While the Clostnature tent won’t be hitting those ultralight weight limits for you they are a smaller company looking to build sustainable gear as their core focus.
The double doors and the unique cover for your vestibule gives this tent a nice comfy feeling for those longer nights outside.
Naturehike Backpacking Tent
Naturehike as a strong player in the lower price range “budget” category but provide an amazing value for the price. This potion from them is a one person tent which will work well for hiking, backpacking, or just enjoying outdoors where you can setup a tent for a break from the sun.
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Key Features
- Waterproof :silicone coated fabric,fully taped seams
- Windproof: professional 7001 aviation aluminum rod and thick aluminum pegs
- Insect prevention and ventilation: 2 air vents, high density B3 mesh
PROS
- Incredibly Quick Setup – Most can have the entire inner and outer setup in under 5 minutes which many getting down to 2-3 minutes!
CONS
- Not Overly Vented – Only two little vent window available
- Tight Fit if Tall – Most said that at 6 feet they fit but after this would become very tight.
Final Thoughts on the Naturehike Backpacking Tent
Definitely a nice starter tent to get you out hiking and backpacking, has some very strong points for lasting a while as you learn the ins and outs and what you may want in your next tent!
AYAMAYA Ultralight Backpacking Tent
This tent is highly rated on Amazon overall and supports a freestanding installation not requiring trekking poles. Along with the ability to set up the internal or external only allows for a load of customization.
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Key Features
- High Quality Waterproof Material & Heat Sealed Seams
- Fabric Material: 190T Polyster
- Ground Material: 210D Oxford
- Waterproof Index: 2000MM-3000MM
- Window Cover: 2000MM Waterproof PU-Coated Polyester
- Heat Sealed Seams: in the connection area prevent from leaking water, integrated vented rainfly keep you dry.
- Double Layer – Allows for Multi Use
- Inner and out layer: Work together as a weatherproof backpacking camping tent for windy or rainy days.
- Inner tent also can be used alone: as a ventilated tent. Sitting inside the tent to enjoy the night star sky.
- Outer layer also can be used alone: as a sunshade by undetachable the inner layer.
- 2 Doors & 2 Top Vents & B3 Mesh – More Ventilation
- This tent designed with 2 d-shape doors: Allows for easy access and enable direct air circulation.
- Inner tent wall: Consisting of a breathable material lower and B3 mesh upper
- Freestanding & Pre-attached Pole Structure
- Special pre-attached together pole structure: Automatically connect each section when release them, no assemble frustration.
- Convenient clips on the inner tent: help you set up or take down the tent in less than 2 minutes.
- Freestanding: Allows the tent to be moved and relocated without having to disassemble, easy to use and saving time
PROS
- Freestanding – Doesn’t require trekking poles to support the tent
- Double Walled – Can be setup without the outer wall for nice nights to help stay cool.
CONS
- Overall Weight – Tent comes in around 5.7 pounds which is quite heavy for backpacking use.
Final Thoughts on the AYAMAYA Ultralight Backpacking Tent
When you are looking for a deal tent that is low in price you will typically need to sacrifice somewhere to get the cost down. This is the story with the AYAMAYA which is amazing and well loved but is definitely over a 3-4 pound weight. Though if you are searching for a tent to use for camping or similar use this is a good deal!
ALPS Mountaineering Taurus 2-Person Tent
The Taurus 2 person tent from ALPS is a heavier tent but with a load of reviews from users that it is a solid performer even into winter conditions which gives this a boost as it could expand your camping season.
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Key Features
- Free-standing two-pole design with shock corded fiberglass poles
- 75D 185T polyester fly with 1500mm coating resists UV damage and stays taut
- Factory-sealed fly and floor seams provide best weather protection
- 75D 185T poly taffeta floor with 1500mm coating
- Extra large #8 zippers on both doors for extra durability
- Easy entry with two doors and ‘single zip operation’
- Two zippered windows (built into doors) and large mesh panels provide great ventilation
- Mesh storage pockets, gear loft, 8 inch steel stakes and guy ropes are all included
PROS
- Double Doors & Vestibules – Entrance on either side helps two people sharing the space to not have to climb over the other occupant
CONS
- Overall Weight – This weighs in at 7 pounds which is definitely one of the heaviest on the list.
Final Thoughts on the ALPS Mountaineering Taurus
When you want to get a tent which can allow you to camp all 3 seasons and into winter this may be an awesome choice. Though this is countered by the 7 pounds to carry which limits it to short backpacking trips and not suitable for a week long hike for most people.
Winterial 3 Person Tent
It can be difficult to find a tent that is both lightweight and spacious. Fortunately, this three-person tent by Winterial is exactly that. It provides plenty of room for three adults to sleep comfortably. Despite its spaciousness, the tent weighs only 4.4 pounds, making it perfect for backpackers.
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Key Features
- A removable rainfly keeps you dry and cozy in wet weather.
- For warmer evenings, there are two large ventilation screens, allowing increased airflow while keeping out bugs.
- The bottom of the tent is waterproof. Winterial also makes a footprint that is specifically sized for this tent (sold separately).
PROS
- Fast and Easy Setup – This tent can be setup in very little time even with no prior experience.
- Three Person Sizing – Means 2 people and their gear can fit very comfortably
CONS
- Backpacking Concern – If you store things horizontally you will need to store this externally due to size overall.
- Not For Tall People – Over 6′ will need to be diagonal and maybe more a fetal position to fit comfortably.
Final Thoughts on the Winterial 3 Person Tent
One of the only tents on our list that is a three person tent as the low weight (4.4 pounds) and space makes it a very nice option for someone looking to hike with a partner and share the load between then to give that additional space once you reach the campsite.
Chillbo CABBINS Camping Tent
The fun part about this good priced tent is that the Chillbo tents are more colorful and have design to their look, it helps to set them apart from others and may either make you love them or despise them as this isn’t a “blend into the woods” tent!
They splash on the colors to create a range of funky 2-person tents that will make you look better than your neighbors when you’re camping out for the weekend.
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Key Features
- 2000mm waterproofing throughout, including sealed seams and a welded floor for max storm-proofing. Check out the reviews below to see how Chillbo Cabbins stands up to the rigors of Mother Nature.
- Premium Oxford flooring to provide a softer, luxurious base.
- 2 Internal pockets for storing essentials.
- Cross-wound poles for extra strength and durability.
- No-See-Um mesh to protect you and your loved ones from unwanted critters and creepy crawlies.
- A sufficiently spacious tent bag so you can pack your tent up without an Advanced Physics degree.
PROS
- Nicely Vented – Plenty of mesh to help get airflow through the tent and keep it as cool as possible.
CONS
- Weight – This tent comes in at about 8 pounds and is meant more for short range backpacking or car camping
Final Thoughts on the Chillbo CABBINS Camping Tent
Definitely for the person who likes to camp and stand out, take them out and have a good time this is really what the Chillbo CABBINS line is all about. They are much more an expression of you and your lifestyle than a tent in a static green or orange color scheme!
Factors To Consider When Buying a Budget Backpacking Tent
Now we can dive into factors you should focus on finding the best tent that will fit within your budget. This should include an analysis of each item and their features, your needs, and your preference.
It is a lot to go over so I have taken some steps to help make this easier. I always keep the below items in my mind as they are important things in making my purchase decisions.
Weight
One of the essential factors in the tent consideration of backpackers is the weight required to carry. The longer your hike the more this decision will and should weigh into your considerations, when you carry something 2000 miles or more each pound adds up on your body.
Additionally, the older you get the less weight you want to carry to help keep you less sore and achy as the joints can get very beat up on the trail.
Lastly, striving to be lightweight shouldn’t mean that you compromise your own safety or other requirements like overall space and durability.
Cost
This is where the rubber hits the road for many backpackers as most of us understand buying a $500 tent is just insane and not financially responsible nor feasible in almost all circumstances. We want to choose the one that combines enough quality and affordability to enjoy our backpacking trips while also not destroying your wallet simultaneously.
Stability
When you look into stability you need to think about the issues you may encounter in the trip. High winds, lightening, snow, and heavy rain are the most typical and you want a tent which can survive these issues as you don’t frequently have a fallback shelter like your car or house should something fail.
Size
To most, the best backpacking tent would be one that has a smaller overall size as you need to carry them in your backpack. This may make you think you should only go shopping for tents which take up little space within your backpack.
Make sure that you pay as much attention to the space it will provide you when set up as the amount of space it takes up with being carried. There is no point in a super small tent if it cant hold you and keep you warm as needed, pay attention to the weather and other variables before the trip to make sure you choose correctly for the trip itself.
Season Rating
When deciding on the tent you will purchase you need to understand when you plan on backpacking and camping as this can change your decision greatly. If you are planning a spring to fall hike time then you are open to 3 season tents, this is basically all tent options.
If you are planning winter based camping and hiking then you need to look at the options for a 4 season tent instead. These tents will be much better in maintaining heat along with better thicker material to hold up to the different needs that winter presents.
Ease of Setup
No one like a tent that takes a masters degree in engineering to setup, and even if you did you may enjoy it far less after 10 hours of hiking in a day. Instead, what you want to do is find a tent which is quick and efficient for you to setup and get into and relax within.
Head Space
Another valuable point to consider is the space available above you, also known as head space. This space is helpful and necessary if you plan to sit up in your tent, many tents are viable for sleeping but not always for continued use outside of laying down.
I have read numerous recommendations to look for a minimum of 30 square feet of space for each person to be inside the tent.
Vestibules and Entrances
When choosing a tent that has a vestibule can be exceptionally helpful in rainy conditions as they provide you a place for dumping your wet equipment and your boots other gear. They can also provide welcome shelter while you take off your wet weather gear.
Tents which have split doors make it more convenient for you to get in and out of your tent, a feature which is helpful when you are sharing your shelter with additional people.
Ventilation
When spending the nights outdoors, one of the worst feelings is to wake up in the morning to find everything is damp. This is frequently one of the most irritating and horrible things to have to manage when backpacking.
Realizing that your bedding and clothes are wet due to them having touched the tent walls adds to this stressor and increased time to air out and dry the gear as you cant allow that to be damp through the day into the next night.
I always recommend you try to choose your tent with better ventilation available while their rain fly is on, along with vents specifically added to help eliminate any internal condensation issues.
General Tips About Buying a Budget Tent
When investigating the options available to purchase a tent for less than 100 dollars you will have to make some compromises about the quality, durability, and weight. I’ll go into more depth on a few details below we will highlight a few common challenges with budget tents.
Limited Waterproofing
Here is the deal, every tent manufacturer claims their product is waterproof, which is technically true as these claims are scrutinized. The actuality is that that at this lower end this is one of the areas where savings are made.
This is why you should typically spend the time to do extra waterproofing, to make sure you are safe and that you won’t have any issues on the trail. I recommend you purchase some waterproofing spray (I prefer Nikwax – which you can buy here) and apply an extra coat yourself prior to heading outdoors onto the trail.
Less Durable Floor or Tub Area
When looking for less expensive tents this is another place where some costs are able to be cut by a company, typically in using a little less thck and durable material. This can mean in many tent choices you may risk water coming in or that there will be easier tearing in the fabric.
The only solution for this type of issue is to use a tarp or a tent footprint. Yes, this will cost you a bit more up front but it will help you to enjoy yourself which means you’ll need to find a balance between overall budget and comfort.
Zipper Quality
Zippers breaking, bending or otherwise having issues are a common complaint on cheap tents. The thing is you just aren’t typically going to find heavy duty zippers in a tent under $100.
There’s a risk of the zippers breaking but the most common issue is that cheap zippers are prone to getting stuck easily. It can be quite annoying but it’s something you are going to have to live with in this price range.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Best Budget Backpacking Tent Under $100
Hopefully I have presented you some very good options which you are going to take with you on your next backpacking trip! As I expect you are just trying to get yourself started when you look to a $100 tent, you are just starting to explore your want to be in the outdoors and need a starter.
I would love to hear from you what your experiences are and hopefully that is has been exciting and that you are now thinking about consistently exploring the outdoors.
Please feel free to share this out to others who are getting started to ensure they make good choices on their initial tent so they can love the outdoors like us!