10 Best Ultralight Tents 2025 in the United States

The NEMO Equipment Dagger OSMO is a 3-person ultralight backpacking tent weighing about 1.6 kilograms (3.5 pounds), making it quite light for its size and capacity. It is made from high-quality OSMO poly-nylon ripstop fabric crafted from recycled materials, which provides good durability and resistance to water and stretching while being eco-friendly and free of harmful chemicals. The tent is rated for 4-season use, capable of handling various weather conditions including cold and snow, though its 1200 mm water resistance is modest for heavy rain.

Featuring two large doors and roomy vestibules, the tent offers excellent space for gear storage and easy access, making it a strong option for group camping. Setup is straightforward due to color-coded hubs and clips combined with lightweight yet strong DAC aluminum poles. Improved ventilation is achieved through the tent’s design and mesh panels, helping to reduce condensation inside. Its packed size is reasonably compact for a 3-person tent but may be somewhat bulky for those focused on extreme minimalism.

The tent’s materials provide good protection and durability, but the modest waterproof rating suggests extra caution or use of a footprint tarp during very heavy or prolonged rain. Thoughtful features such as accessory pockets and a rain cover add to its functional convenience. This tent is well-suited for backpackers seeking a balance of lightweight carry weight, reliable weather protection, and comfortable space for three people, excelling in eco-conscious design and ease of setup while not being the ideal choice for extremely wet conditions or the smallest packed size.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL is a 3-season ultralight backpacking tent designed for two people, with extra length and width to comfortably fit taller users. Weighing about 3.3 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being lightweight and spacious, which is important for backpackers who want to carry less but still have room to move inside. Its standout feature is the HyperBead fabric, which offers strong waterproof protection without adding bulk, keeping you dry during rain while maintaining breathability to reduce condensation.

The tent’s design includes two awning-style doors and dual vestibules, providing convenient storage space for gear without crowding the sleeping area. Setup is made easier with the TipLok Tent Buckle and cross pole sockets, so even if you're new to pitching tents, assembling it should be straightforward. Multiple vents allow you to adjust airflow, which helps keep the interior comfortable in various weather conditions. The durable aluminum poles and reinforced materials add reliability without much extra weight.

The packed size is a bit larger than some ultralight models, which might be a consideration if you have limited backpack space. Additionally, the price tends to be higher than average, reflecting its premium materials and features. For serious backpackers looking for a lightweight, roomy, and waterproof 2-person tent suitable for spring through fall, the Copper Spur UL delivers a well-thought-out combination of comfort and performance with easy setup. However, those prioritizing the absolute smallest packed size or on a tight budget might find simpler, less expensive options.

The NEMO Equipment Dagger OSMO 2-Person tent is a solid choice for backpackers who want a lightweight yet spacious shelter. Weighing around 4.1 pounds (1860 grams), it fits well into the ultralight category for two people. Its standout feature is the roomy interior, with increased door and peak heights that make moving around inside much easier compared to many tents in this class. The added Volumizing Stash strut expands the vestibule space by 22%, giving you more covered storage for gear, which is a big plus when weather turns bad.

The tent's OSMO fabric is a major strength. It’s highly durable, water-resistant, and eco-friendly, made from recycled materials without harmful chemicals. This fabric also stretches less when wet and keeps its water repellency longer than typical coatings, helping keep you dry. Plus, the tent is designed with strict environmental standards, which is great if you’re concerned about sustainability.

Ventilation is good thanks to smart design choices, helping reduce condensation inside the tent. Setup is straightforward, and the packed size is reasonably compact at about 20.5 x 7 x 4.7 inches, making it easy to fit into most backpacks. The tent is best suited for 3-season use—spring to fall—rather than harsh winter conditions. While it might be slightly heavier than the absolute lightest ultralight tents, it offers extra space and durability in return. This makes the NEMO Dagger OSMO a dependable tent balancing comfort and weight well for typical backpacking trips.