Best Hiking Tent

FAQs

Even if we have a winner already for the hiking tent giveaway, this doesn’t mean we won’t do our job and answer all your questions regarding hiking tents, how to pick them, and how to use them!

How heavy should be a hiking tent?

If you followed our complete guide of hiking, you know you should travel as light as you can. In general, a tent should weigh approximately 2.5 pounds per person. If you hike alone, you should take into account the fact that you will also have to carry a first-aid kit and plenty of other items. When you are backpacking with other people, you can split the weight by dividing the tent, rain fly, poles, and other items.

How should I choose a hiking tent?

It all depends on where and when you are hiking. If you hike in winter, you should get a double-walled hiking tent. In winter, you should look for tents featuring a waterproof floor and a breathable canopy. Moreover, depending on how heavy snowfall is in the area you are hiking, you should also choose a hiking tent that you can cover with a removable rainfly. Single-walled tents are best for alpine climbers. When you hike in summer, your hiking tent should be lightweight but sturdy and well-built enough to protect you against rain, winds, and so on.

Are all-season hiking tents worth it?

Most all-season hiking tents are capable of protecting you from heavy rain and light dustings of snow, winds, or storms. However, all-season tents are not suitable for prolonged adventures outdoors in harsh weather. The main purpose of an all-season tent is to keep the hiker safe from extreme weather. If you intend to hike or spend extended periods in areas with intense winds, frigid temperatures, and heavy snow, you should get a specific tent for such conditions. In any case, an all-season tent must be sturdy and waterproof at all times.



So can you use an all-season tent in the summer?

Yes, but since all-season tents tend to cover most winter needs, they may not offer you the proper level of ventilation you might need in the scorching sun. If you know you are going to hike in summer a region with high temperatures, dry air, and some summer rain, you should get a summer tend instead of a four-season one. All-season tents also tend to be larger, so if you hike solo in the summer, their volume and weight might not be ideal for your needs.

How much should I spend on a hiking tent?

A hiking tent becomes your home while hiking and you cannot really put a price on a home that keeps you safe and comfortable at all times. However, since the base price for an entry-level hiking tent is about $50, anything below might not deliver the quality and safety that you need. Just as it is the case with hiking boots – crucial for a successful hiking experience – so should your tent feature everything you need and then some. From waterproof seams to breathable canopies, the sky is the limit. Our recommendation is to read users’ reviews, compare prices, and do some research regarding the manufacturers’ experience and reputation on the market, especially if you are a beginner hiker on a budget.