A good bikepacking tent is a cozy home away from home. When you’re braving the elements in remote mountains or navigating unfamiliar cultures in a new country (or both at the same time), you’re going to need a comfy and frustration-free place to lay your head each night.
But choosing the right tent for bikepacking can be hard, even harder than similar activities like backpacking in my opinion. The best bikepacking tent depends heavily on where and how you plan to use it, and what you mean when you say “bikepacking.” If you’re a beginner just starting out, it’s all too easy to spend money on a tent that may not match the style of bikepacking you’re most stoked about.
In this guide I’ll walk you through the most important factors to consider as you think about your bikepacking aspirations, and how to translate them into a tent that meets your needs and your budget. Then I’ll list the most notable bikepacking tents in several categories – solo, 2 and 3 person, ultralight, and budget – along with their specs and bikepacking-specific pros and cons.
Several of these bikepacking tents have been my own home away from home during over 18,000 miles of bikepacking and touring. Some I’ve observed while camping with other bikepackers, and some I’ve chosen for this roundup through careful research. Whatever your style and budget, I hope this bikepacking tent guide leads to a tent you’ll enjoy for many happy and adventurous nights.
From the Bikepacking Shop
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Do You Need a Bikepacking-Specific Tent?
Most tents used for bikepacking are technically backpacking tents. The backpacking market is bigger and has been around longer, and backpackers tend to be even more weight-sensitive when it comes to gear. Thus backpacking tents are a good place to start, and we bikepackers can narrow it down based on a few differences in how we use our tents (more on this below).
These days there are enough of us bikepackers that gear manufacturers are starting to pay attention. Big Agnes, Nemo, and Big Sky International are a few who produce bikepacking-specific versions of their tents. Generally this means their poles fold up shorter to fit into space-constrained bikepacking setups, and the stuff sack might be burlier to handle the rigors of being strapped on a bike.
As much as I love that bikepacking-specific tents are a thing, I recommend you don’t limit yourself to tents with “bikepack” in the model name. Many backpacking tents work perfectly well too, and I’ve included several in the following roundups of the best tents for bikepacking.
Related: Lightweight Solo Backpacking Tents Ranked by Price and Weight
What’s Your Bikepacking Style?
The term “bikepacking” can refer to many kinds of travel by bike. Just like with bikepacking bikes, many tents can work but some will be better than others depending on the type of bikepacking you have in mind. Here are the two ends of the spectrum as I usually see it:
Shorter nature-focused trips in remote areas: a weekend overnighter on local trails, a few days on dirt forest service roads, or maybe a ride like the Great Divide that’s longer but fairly consistent and focused on low-population areas. These rides can feel almost like backpacking on wheels and require similar gear. If this is your primary bikepacking style, you might like the single-wall non-freestanding shelters often used by lightweight backpackers (especially if you also backpack).
Long-distance bike travel through varied areas: a multi-country tour, round-the-world adventure, or dirt road expedition through a foreign country. These types of rides tend to be less predictable, cover a wider range of seasons and climates, and bring us through more populated areas. For all these reasons a more robust and versatile double-wall freestanding tent, possibly in a larger size than you technically need, can be worth the extra ounces of weight.
Those are just generalizations! Many people blur the lines between these styles or use the same shelter for both. But as you peruse the bikepacking tents below, consider your future bikepacking dreams and how they might influence your choice. At the bottom, below the tents, is a section on what to look for in a bikepacking tent.
Key question to ask yourself when choosing a tent for bikepacking: Do you plan to bikepack internationally?
In my experience, bikepacking on trails or public land in the US feels more like backpacking (hiking) in terms of gear needs. Backcountry-focused 3-season lightweight gear works well, and a more minimalist packing list makes sense.
But once you start traveling on your bike, things get less predictable. When biking abroad you’re more likely to encounter varied weather (snowy blizzards or sticky humid heat), malarial mosquitos, urban camping, and all kinds of other adventures. You might want to bring more gear inside your tent at night, or hunker down for a few days to rest. For these cases a freestanding double-wall tent, possibly one size bigger, is a more versatile and comfortable choice and probably worth the extra weight.
1 Person Bikepacking Tents
A good solo bikepacking tent can be your cozy personal home away from home, and your sanctuary at the end of a long and challenging day. Here’s a selection of the best 1-person tents for bikepacking currently on the market.
Comparison Table: 1 Person Bikepacking Tents
Click on a tent name to jump down to its description, or keep scrolling to see them all.
| Tent | Price | Weight | Style |
| Big Sky Soul 1P | $300 | 2 lbs 6 oz | freestanding (inc. vestibule) double wall |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack | $550 | 2 lbs 5 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack 1p | $420 | 2 lbs 4 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Hyke and Byke Yosemite 1p | $105 | 3 lbs 7 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Tarptent Rainbow | $279 | 2 lbs 2 oz | staked single wall |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | $280 (with aluminum pole) | 1 lb 13.7 oz (with aluminum pole) | pyramid, staked single wall |
| Zpacks Plex Solo | $629 (with carbon pole) | 16.7 oz (with carbon pole) | pyramid, staked single wall |
Big Sky Soul 1P Bikepack
Price: $300
Trail weight: 2 lbs 6 oz
Style: double wall freestanding (including vestibule)
Seasons: 3
Door: front
Floor area: 85″ by 24/36″
Peak height: 39 in
Pros: completely freestanding including vestibule; versatile double-wall design with plenty of mesh works well in all climates; available in bikepack-specific version with short poles; super-simple setup and takedown; affordable
Cons: has been hard to get recently due to supply chain issues; not the best in heavy wind; some people prefer side door over front entry; vestibule is small (but it’s uniquely freestanding)
The Big Sky Soul 1P is my all-time favorite solo bikepacking tent. I’ve used mine for thousands of miles in a number of countries and find it an excellent balance of light weight, compact size, and versatility. Apparently I’m not the only one: bikepacking.com named the Soul 1P in their 2021 bikepacking Gear of the Year awards. Unfortunately the Soul was clobbered by supply chain issues throughout 2022, but this excellent 1-person bikepacking tent will be available again soon in 2023.
The Soul is one of the most affordable freestanding tents in this list, and the only tent I know of that is fully freestanding including the vestibule. This is pretty darn handy when you need to keep your gear dry in the rain on an unstakeable surface. It’s also extremely fast to set up and take down thanks to its simple two pole design, yet it still manages to feel roomy inside. One factor to consider is the front entry door. Personally I like it, but some folks prefer a side door.
If shorter poles don’t matter to you, the regular 17 inch version is about 2.5 ounces lighter. Though the poles are longer, they’re slightly less bulky, so consider how you plan to carry your tent. Unlike some of the other bikepack-specific tents in this list, the Soul doesn’t come with a burly webbing-covered stuff sack. I’ve worn a few small holes in mine over the years, but the lighter sack allows you to save some weight and optimize your own carry setup.
Want more space on a solo trip, or to occasionally squeeze in a partner? The Soul also comes in a 2 person version, though the front door style isn’t the most convenient for sharing.
For more detail, see my full Big Sky Soul review.
Check price or buy Big Sky Soul:
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack
Price: $550 ($450 for non-bikepack version)
Trail weight: 2 lbs 5 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 20 sq ft (88 x 28/36″)
Peak height: 38 in
Pros: available in bikepack-specific version with short poles and durable compression sack with webbing; convenient features like gear lofts and helmet stash; large side door; feels generally well-made and high quality
Cons: on the expensive side, especially the bikepack version
The Copper Spur HV UL line from Big Agnes offers excellent full-featured design in a lightweight package across a wide size range, from 1-person up to 5-person! I use the 3-person version, also included below, when bikepacking with my husband. The 1-person version highlighted here is a favorite among solo bikepackers seeking a full-featured, roomy shelter at a surprisingly light weight.
The Copper Spur HV UL1 comes in a bikepack-specific version with shorter poles, a burly stuff sack with webbing for easily attachment to your bike, and a helmet stash loop – a bit gimmicky maybe, this last one, but handy nonetheless. Unfortunately the bikepack version is $100 more expensive and several ounces heavier than the regular version. Depending on how you carry your tent when bikepacking, the regular version may actually be a better buy.
The Copper Spur is fully freestanding, except the vestibule, which is very handy for long-distance travel. If you’d like something a little lighter, the semi-freestanding Tiger Wall UL1 Solution Dye shaves a few ounces (and $50) in exchange for needing to stake out two corners. There’s also the semi-freestanding Fly Creek HV UL1 Bikepack and non-bikepack version, if you don’t mind the front door. Both the Fly Creek and the Tiger Wall have more mesh and less nylon on the inner, which might make the a bit better suited to warm climates and less ideal for cold and windy nights, but it’s a small difference.
Need more space? The Copper Spur comes in sizes to fit up to 5(!) bikepackers. Jump down to the larger versions.
For more detail, see my full review of the Copper Spur HV UL (3 person version).
Check price or buy Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack:
Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack 1 Person
Price: $420
Trail weight: 2 lbs 4 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 20.3 sq ft (88 x 35/32″)
Peak height: 40 in
Pros: robust stuff sack includes straps for attaching to bike (though you may still want a harness for stability and cable spacing); a bit more floor area than the other freestanding solo tents in this list; thoughtful features like headlamp sleeve and black mesh for stargazing
Cons: bikepack version’s short poles are 14 inches, a tad longer than the more typical 12″
Nemo Equipment’s bikepacking version of the popular Dragonfly tent is surprisingly feature-rich for its weight. The freestanding double-wall design and side-entry door are most similar to the Copper Spur UL HV1. There are some thoughtful nice touches including the removable Landing Zone storage tub, light-diffusing headlamp pocket, and black upper mesh for unobstructed stargazing.
Nemo says the bikepacking version uses subdued colors for stealthy camping. I appreciate the thought but I’ve seen better; the neon green accents aren’t exactly stealthy especially if pitching without the fly. The poles fold down to 14 inches and the sturdy stuff sack includes straps for attaching to a variety of spots on a bike. Like the bikepack version of the Copper Spur, the Dragonfly’s stuff sack is essentially a minimalist handlebar bag, though you’ll likely want more stability and cable clearance for rougher riding.
The Dragonfly Bikepack isn’t the cheapest tent in this list, but it does beat the similarly full-featured Big Agnes Copper Spur in terms of price and it has more bells and whistles than many others.
For more detail see bikepacking.com’s Nemo Dragonfly review.
Check price or buy Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack:
Hyke and Byke Yosemite 1
Price: $105
Trail weight: 3 lbs 7 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 21.4 sq ft (88 x 35″)
Peak height: 42 in
Pros: unbeatable price; simple and solid; fairly roomy; 16 inch poles are a bit shorter than non-bikepack-specific tents; bonus points for referencing bikes in their brand name
Cons: colors are not stealthy; heavier than more expensive alternatives; newer and less well-known brand
As a budget bikepacking tent, the Hyke and Byke Yosemite can’t be beat. This small company started by outdoor enthusiasts has figured out how to offer decently high-quality gear at lower prices by optimizing their operations and selling directly to consumers. It looks to be basic but solid, with a good amount of space for a solo tent and poles that pack down smaller than most non-bikepack-specific tents (16 inches). If I needed a solo bikepacking tent on a limited budget, I would definitely give this one a try.
Check price or buy Hyke and Byke Yosemite 1:
Tarptent Rainbow
Price: $279
Trail weight: 2 lbs 2oz
Style: single wall
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 24.4 sq ft
Peak height: 43 in
Pros: large and tall interior; affordable price; carbon fiber pole option (saves 3.3 oz for $20); simple and quick setup; can be made freestanding with trekking poles if you also backpack
Cons: single wall construction is more condensation-prone and less weather-proof than double wall designs; packed size is relatively long at 18 inches; yellow stripe is not stealthy; top strut needs to be removed for stuffability into oddly shaped bags
The Tarptent Rainbow is a classic lightweight backpacking tent (which is how I originally discovered it almost 10 years ago) that also works well for bikepacking. The simple design, just one curved ridgeline pole and four staked corners, is easy to set up and offers a surprising amount of interior space. The rectangular 40-inch wide floor makes the Rainbow one of the roomiest solo shelters available; it’s basically a 1.5 person tent. It could technically fit two in a pinch, and it’s a great compromise option for solo bikepackers who want a little more space but don’t want to carry a full 2-person tent. All this comes at a very respectable weight and impressively affordable price.
The Tarptent is an interesting option for bikepackers who also backpack. It’s not the lightest backpacking tent out there, but it can be made freestanding by using trekking poles across the ends instead of stakes at the corners. Though backpacking doesn’t require a freestanding pitch as often as bikepacking tends to, this unique design makes for a very convenient setup and works well on rocky soil or granite slabs.
As a single-wall tent, the Rainbow does come with some drawbacks for long bikepacking trips. You can’t take the fly off in hot weather; you’re limited to opening the door for ventilation. Condensation can collect inside on damp nights, though Tarptent sells a lightweight liner that helps prevent drips and also adds warmth. The tent’s bathtub floor isn’t very deep and I’ve had issues with rain and dust blowing in through the mesh. But for 3-season bikepacking trips in mostly fair weather, the Rainbow’s combination of weight, price, and space is hard to beat.
Check price or buy Tarptent Rainbow:
Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
Price: $260 + $20 aluminum pole
Trail weight: 1 lb 10 oz + 3.7 oz aluminum pole
Style: single wall pyramid style
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 26.25 sq ft
Peak height: 49 in
Pros: small packed size with 11″ folding pole; good in wind and light snow; tall peak height; can pitch with trekking pole if you want to use it for backpacking
Cons: single wall construction is more condensation-prone and less weather-proof than double wall designs; pyramid design depends on solid staking
Six Moon Designs is a small company focused on thru hiking gear; I’ve used their Haven tarp for many miles on foot. Their Lunar Solo shelter, though originally designed for backpacking, is especially well-suited to bikepacking too thanks to its pyramid shape supported by a single 5-segment folding pole.
The Lunar Solo is a perfect crossover shelter for folks who also love backpacking. You can pitch with a trekking pole while traveling on foot and carry the compact folding aluminum pole ($20 and 3.7 oz) or carbon fiber pole ($45 and 2.3 oz) on bike trips. The 49” five segment pole folds down to only 11” which makes this one of the smallest packed solo bikepacking tents on this list, perfect for an ultralight setup or drop handlebars.
As with the other ultralight single-wall tents in this list, the Lunar Solo is best for 3-season backcountry-focused bike trips. The non-freestanding design depends heavily on stakes for its structure, and the single wall construction limits ventilation. This isn’t a shelter I’d want to be stuck using indoors as mosquito protection in a tropical climate, for example; one of the double-wall shelters above would be more appropriate.
There’s also a Lunar Duo 2 person version, but I have trouble recommending it over the similarly designed Gossamer Gear The Two (discussed below) which is lighter and slightly cheaper.
Check price or buy Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo:
Zpacks Plex Solo
Price: $599 + $30 carbon fiber 52″ pole
Trail weight: 13.9 oz + 2.8 oz carbon pole
Style: single wall pyramid style
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 20.6 sq ft
Peak height: 52 in
Pros: extremely light; tall peak height; available in many colors; also pitches with trekking pole if you want to use it for backpacking
Cons: expensive; single wall construction is more condensation-prone and less weather-proof than double wall designs; pyramid design depends on solid staking; ultralight fabric is surprisingly strong but requires some care
This pricey ultralight tent won’t appeal to everyone, but if you’re looking for the lightest fully-enclosed bikepacking shelter out there it’s hard to do better than the Plex Solo. Weighing in at only 14 ounces, plus another 2.8 for a folding carbon pole, the whole setup weighs just a hair over one pound and folds into a slim 12” long package.
Like the Lunar Solo, the pitch depends heavily on stakes so it’s not great for urban camping and other oddities of long bike trips. Zpacks recommends 6 to 10 stakes, depending on wind. Like the other pyramid shelters in this list it’s designed as a trekking pole backpacking tent, but Zpacks sells a 5 segment folding carbon pole as an alternative.
Overall the Zpacks Plex Solo stands out for its featherlight weight and gets high praise from ultralight thru hikers. It would work very nicely for short bikepacking trips in mostly remote locations, but it’s not the most practical choice for long-haul bike journeys.
Check price or buy Zpacks Plex Solo:
For more ultralight backpacking-style tents like the Plex Solo and Lunar Solo, see Lightweight Solo Tents Ranked by Price and Weight. I’ve selected the standout options here based on price, weight, and bikepacking-friendliness, but there are others to choose from.
2 and 3 Person Bikepacking Tents
The right two person bikepacking tent can be a roomy palace for a solo traveler or a lightweight shared shelter for a couple. A three person tent makes a cozy family shelter or a spacious upgrade for a couple on a longer trip. Because so many of these tent models come in multiple sizes with similar designs, I’ve grouped 2 and 3 person versions together in the descriptions below.
Comparison Table: 2 Person Bikepacking Tents
Click on a tent name to jump down to its description, or keep scrolling to see them all.
| Tent | Price | Weight | Style |
| Big Sky Soul 2P Bikepack | $350 | 2 lbs 15 oz | freestanding (inc. vestibule) double wall |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepack | $600 | 2 lbs 15 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack 2P | $480 | 2 lbs 13 oz | freestanding double wall |
| MSR Hubba Hubba 2 | $550 | 2 lbs 14 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2 | $120 | 5 lbs | freestanding double wall |
| Sea to Summit Telos 2P Bikepack | $699 | 3 lbs 5 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Tarptent Double Rainbow | $319 | 2 lbs 3.7 oz | staked single wall |
| Gossamer Gear The Two | $412 | 1 lb 13.2 oz | staked single wall |
| Zpacks Free Duo | $849 | 1 lb 14.1 oz | freestanding single wall |
| Blacktail Hotel Bikepack 2 | $400 | 6 lbs 1 oz | freestanding double wall + extended vestibule |
| Hilleberg Nallo 2 | $855 | 5 lbs 5 oz | tunnel, staked |
Comparison Table: 3 Person Bikepacking Tents
If you need a 3-person bikepacking tent for family bikepacking, a couple with a dog, or just a pair that appreciates personal space, these are the standout options. This list is shorter than the others, as there just aren’t that many lightweight 3-person tents to choose from.
Click on a tent name to jump down to its description, or keep scrolling to see them all.
| Tent | Price | Weight | Style |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Bikepack | $650 | 3 lbs 11 oz | freestanding double wall |
| MSR Hubba Hubba 3 | $630 | 3 lbs 7 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Sea to Summit Telos TR3 | $699 | 4 lbs 3.8 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Blacktail Hotel Bikepack 3 | $450 | 6 lbs 15 oz | freestanding double wall + extended vestibule |
| Hilleberg Nallo 3 | $920 | 5 lbs 12 oz | tunnel, staked |
| Zpacks Free Trio | $949 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | freestanding single wall |
Big Sky Soul 2P Bikepack
Price: $350
Trail weight: 2 lbs 15 oz
Style: freestanding double-wall
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 front
Floor area: 85 x 53/47″
Peak height: 42 in
Pros: completely freestanding including vestibule; available in bikepack-specific version with short poles; super-simple setup and takedown; affordable
Cons: single front door is awkward for a shared tent; not the best in heavy wind; vestibule is small (but it’s uniquely freestanding)
The Soul 2P is a larger version of my favorite solo bikepacking tent, the Soul 1P discussed above (scroll up to Soul 1P). The unique freestanding design, including the vestibule, makes this tent perfect for long and varied routes.
The only drawback to the 2-person version: a shared front door makes it harder to climb in and out without disturbing your partner. For this reason I see the Soul 2P being more popular as a roomy palace for solo bikepackers, rather than a shared tent for two especially on long journeys.
For more detail, read my Big Sky Soul 1P review.
Check price or buy Big Sky Soul 2P:
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL (2, 3 person)
Price: $600 (2P), $650 (3P)
Trail weight: 2 lbs 15 oz (2P), 3 lbs 11 oz (3P)
Style: freestanding double-wall
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 29 sq ft (88 x 52/42″), 41 sq ft (90 x 70/62″)
Peak height: 40 in
Pros: available in bikepack-specific version with short poles and durable compression sack with webbing; convenient features like gear lofts and helmet stash; generally feels high-quality and well made
Cons: somewhat expensive; not the lightest
Here we have one of the best and most popular bikepacking tents around. As with the Copper Spur HV UL1 solo version discussed above (scroll up to the UL1), the 2 and 3 person versions are high-quality and versatile bikepacking-specific tents. The short poles pack inside a sturdy compression sack with straps to attach directly to your bike, and there’s a helmet stash on the outside to save room indoors. Setup is straightforward, all the parts are well thought-out and high quality, and the weather-resistance is excellent.
Both the 2 person and 3 person Copper Spur come in non-bikepack versions that are a little lighter and $50 cheaper. My husband and I have bikepacked several trips of a month or more with the regular non-bikepack 3p version, and we love it. We split up the fly and the inner and each carry one; the 17 inch poles are no problem for our rear racks or handlebar bags. The three person size, while more space than we need, helps reduce marital strife when we’re spending lots of time in the tent.
The Copper Spur also comes in even bigger sizes; it’s the only backpacking tent series I know of that includes a 5 person size! If your bikepacking trip will be a party for the whole family, this is your tent.
Though the Copper Spur is impressively light for its quality and roominess, weight-sensitive bikepackers should also look at the Big Agnes Tiger Wall 2p and 3p bikepack-specific tents. They’re a bit smaller, a bit lighter, and a bit less expensive.
For more detail, see my full Copper Spur HV UL3 review.
Check price or buy Copper Spur HV UL:
Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack (2 person)
Price: $480
Trail weight: 2 lbs 13 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 29 sq ft (88 x 50/45″)
Peak height: 41 in
Pros: robust stuff sack includes straps for attaching to bike (though you may still want a harness for stability and cable spacing); shorter bikepacking-specific poles; thoughtful features like headlamp sleeve and black mesh for stargazing
Cons: bikepack version’s short poles are 14 inches (instead of the more typical 12)
This is a larger version of Nemo Equipment’s Dragonfly 1 person bikepacking tent discussed above (scroll up to Dragonfly 1P). Like the Copper Spur it features a versatile freestanding double-wall design and two side-entry doors for conflict-free sharing. Thoughtful features like the removable Landing Zone storage tub, light-diffusing headlamp pocket, and black upper mesh for unobstructed stargazing are nice touches.
Nemo says the bikepacking version uses subdued colors, though I’ve seen better; the neon green accents aren’t exactly stealthy especially if pitching without the fly. The poles fold down to 14 inches and the sturdy stuff sack includes straps for attaching to a variety of spots on a bike. Like the bikepack version of the Copper Spur, the Dragonfly’s stuff sack is essentially a minimalist handlebar bag, though you’ll likely want more stability and cable clearance for rougher riding.
Nemo also makes the Dragonfly in a 3 person version, but it doesn’t include the bikepacking-optimized features and shorter pole length.
For more detail see bikepacking.com’s Nemo Dragonfly review.
Check price or buy Nemo Dragonfly 2P Bikepack:
MSR Hubba Hubba (2, 3 person)
Price: $550, $630
Trail weight: 2 lbs 14 oz, 3 lbs 7 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 29 sq ft (84 x 50″), 39.5 sq ft (84 x 68”)
Peak height: 46 in
Pros: good headroom; good balance of livability and weight; door zippers have no curves which are often the first place to fail
Cons: tent body includes less mesh than many, making it less breezy in hot climates; standard longer tent poles (18 in); red accent color isn’t stealthy
The Hubba Hubba doesn’t distinguish itself all that well from the Big Agnes Copper Spur or the Nemo Dragonfly. It’s another lightweight freestanding double-wall tent but without bikepacking-specific features. That said, it’s a classic that’s well-suited for bikepacking trips and worth considering.
I appreciate that the doors minimize curves in the zipper path, since in my experience that’s where zippers tend to fail first on well-loved tents. The inner tent body has less mesh than most, so it might be better-suited to cold and windy climates than hot and muggy ones.
The Hubba Hubba also comes in a solo version that shares the pros and cons of the 2 and 3 person models. I didn’t include it in the 1-person tents section above because it doesn’t stand out from the bikepack-specific Copper Spur and Dragonfly solo models, but it’s still not a bad choice.
Check price or buy MSR Hubba Hubba:
Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2
Price: $120
Trail weight: 5 lbs
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 1 side
Floor area: 33 sq ft (88 x 54″)
Peak height: 45 in
Pros: unbeatable price; simple and solid; fairly roomy; 16 inch poles are a bit shorter than non-bikepack-specific tents; bonus points for referencing bikes in their brand name
Cons: colors are not stealthy; heavier than more expensive alternatives; newer and less well-known brand
As a budget bikepacking tent, the Hyke and Byke Yosemite can’t be beat. This small company started by outdoor enthusiasts has figured out how to offer decently high-quality gear at lower prices by optimizing their operations and selling directly to consumers. It looks to be basic but solid, with a good amount of space for a 2-person tent and poles that pack down smaller than most non-bikepack-specific tents (16 inches). If I needed a 2-person bikepacking tent on a limited budget, I would definitely give this one a try.
Check price or buy Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2:
Sea to Summit Telos Bikepack TR2 (2 person)
Price: $699
Trail weight: 3 lbs 5 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 28 sq ft (84.5 x 53/43″)
Peak height: 43.5 in
Pros: tall interior; short folded poles; feature-rich and versatile design; fly can be pitched first for dry setup in rain; includes two sturdy dry bags and straps for easy bike loading
Cons: expensive; heavier than similar alternatives; newer design with fewer reviews available
A relative newcomer to the tent scene, Sea to Summit launched their lines of Telos and Alto tents in 2021 and they look to be making a splash. For purposes of this list the bikepack-specific Telos 2P stands out with its shorter folding poles and unique split carry system. Sea to Summit is already known for their bikepacking-friendly dry bags, so it’s no surprise they would nail the carrying system for the Telos.
The Telos’s unique design with up-sloping Tension Ridge poles offers extra interior space and ventilation. The fly can be pitched first in rain keeping the interior dry, a feature you’ll overlook until, one wet day, you really appreciate it. The whole system and its parts can be used in a variety of configurations, including “half-fly” modes and the fly by itself as an awning (with additional pole set).
The price for all of this, unfortunately, is money; the Telos is rather expensive for its class. And it’s a few ounces heavier than the other freestanding 2-person bikepacking tents in this list.
The Telos line also includes regular 2P and 3P sizes, as well as 2P and 3P “Plus” models meant to be warmer and more weather-resistant when it’s cold and stormy. Though these aren’t offered with bikepack-specific short poles, the Plus models could be especially compelling for long-haul tourers (likely using a rear rack anyway, with which the long poles are no problem) looking for a winter-capable bikepacking tent. On the other side of the spectrum there’s the Alto line of lighter, semi-freestanding tents in 1P and 2P sizes, each with more weather-resistant Plus versions.
For more detail, see the Telos TR2 Bikepack review at Gear Junkie.
Check price or buy Sea to Summit Telos TR2 Bikepack:
Sea to Summit Telos TR3 (non-bikepack version)
Price: $699
Trail weight: 4 lbs 3.8 oz
Style: double wall freestanding
Seasons: 3 (or 3+ with the TR3 Plus)
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 39.5 sq ft (90 x 71/58″)
Peak height: 52.5 in
Though it’s not available in the bikepacking-specific version with short poles, I want to call out the Telos 3P as an option for folks who want a 3-person tent with extra headroom and/or borderline-winter weather capabilities. For the latter, see the TR3 Plus model.
Scroll up to the TR2 bikepack to learn more about this new and innovative line of tents from Sea to Summit.
Check price or buy Sea to Summit Telos TR3:
Tarptent Double Rainbow
Price: $319
Trail weight: 2 lbs 3.7 oz
Style: single wall staked
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 30 sq ft (50 x 88″)
Peak height: 40 in
Pros: affordable price; carbon fiber pole option (saves 3.3 oz for $20); can be made freestanding with trekking poles if you also backpack; simple and quick setup
Cons: single wall construction is more condensation-prone and less weather-proof than double wall designs; packed size is relatively long at 18 inches; yellow stripe is not stealthy; top strut needs to be removed for stuffability into oddly shaped bags
This is the 2 person version of the Tarptent Rainbow discussed above (scroll up to Rainbow 1p). My husband and I have used it on shorter bikepacking trips lasting a few days to a week. We love the simple design and light weight, but I would say it’s a bit cozy too for a longer trip together.
The Tarptent is an interesting option for bikepackers who also backpack. It’s not the lightest backpacking tent out there, but it can be made freestanding by using trekking poles across the ends instead of stakes at the corners. Though backpacking doesn’t require a freestanding pitch as often as bikepacking tends to, this unique design makes for a very convenient setup and works well on rocky soil or granite slabs.
As a single-wall tent, the Rainbow does come with some drawbacks for long bikepacking trips. You can’t take the fly off in hot weather; you’re limited to opening the door for ventilation. Condensation can collect inside on damp nights, though Tarptent sells a lightweight liner that helps prevent drips and also adds warmth. The tent’s bathtub floor isn’t very deep and I’ve had issues with rain and dust blowing into the tent through the mesh.
Hardcore ultralight enthusiasts might be interested in the Dyneema Double Rainbow Li, which saves about 8 ounces and costs over twice as much as the standard model.
Check price or buy Tarptent Double Rainbow:
Gossamer Gear The Two
Price: $374 + $38 poles
Trail weight: 1 lb 7.5 oz + 2 x 2.85 oz poles = 1 lb 13.2 oz
Style: single wall staked
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 84 x 48/42″
Peak height: 43 in
Pros: quite lightweight; relatively affordable for such a light tent; tall headroom; can also pitch with trekking poles if you’re a backpacker
Cons: single wall construction is more condensation-prone and less weather-proof than double wall designs; structure depends on stakes
Gossamer Gear’s The Two is more of an ultralight backpacking tent than a bikepacking tent, but it stands out in any list for its unique combination of both low weight and low price. This fully-enclosed 2-person tent doesn’t have the biggest footprint but tall folks will appreciate its 43 inch interior height. It pitches with two poles – trekking poles for hikers, or the separate pole set for bikepackers – which fold down to a reasonably packable 14 inches. The entire setup costs $412 which, for the impressively light weight, is a darn good deal.
There’s also The One, Gossamer Gear’s solo version of this tent, which I chose not to include in the 1-person bikepacking tents above despite its popularity with backpackers. Compared to pyramid-shaped solo tents which only require one extra pole (if you don’t have trekking poles with you) the One’s 2-pole design seemed less bikepacking-friendly than other good options. But in the two person ultralight category, which generally has two side doors and two poles anyway, The Two is certainly worth a look for weight-conscious bikepackers.
Check price or buy Gossamer Gear The Two:
ZPacks Free Duo / Trio
Price: $849 / $949
Trail weight: 1 lb 14.1 oz / 2 lbs 2.6 oz
Style: single wall freestanding
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 90 x 42″ / 90 x 59″
Peak height: 42 in
Pros: rare ultralight freestanding 2 or 3 person tent; better in stormy weather than non-freestanding options of similar or heavier weight
Cons: costs a fortune; folded tent poles are 20″ long; DCF fabric is somewhat translucent and requires some care; not the simplest to set up
The Zpacks Free Duo and Trio are so eye-wateringly expensive that I almost didn’t include them, but ultimately I couldn’t resist this nod to the lightest freestanding 2 and 3-person tents in existence (that I’m aware of). The 20 inch folded poles are long, but by golly is this light for a freestanding tent. The Duo is a tight squeeze for a pair on a long trip but a roomy ultralight solo palace. Couples might consider the Trio, which is still pretty darn light.
The Free Duo /Trio won’t be worth the money for most bikepackers, but for the right person – perhaps a long-term bike traveler with an ultralight gear list and some money – it might be just the thing. After choosing it for this roundup I realized that bikepacking.com named it in their 2020 Gear of the Year awards, and those folks do have good, if expensive, taste.
Zpacks also offers the Duplex and Triplex, larger cousins to the Plex Solo mentioned above in the 1-person tents section. These are trekking-pole-supported tents but you can buy dedicated poles for them, making them into ultralight bikepacking-friendly shelters. The Duplex interestingly has the option of a freestanding pole kit, a brilliant idea that allows you to save some weight in stake-friendly circumstances and still get use out of your expensive tent when freestanding is preferrable. The Triplex offers no such kit, and personally I wouldn’t want to be stuck pitching a 3-person, 8-10 stake trekking pole tent on concrete!
For more detail see bikepacking.com’s Free Duo review.
Check price or buy Zpacks Free Duo / Trio:
Blacktail Hotel (2, 3 person)
Price: $400, $450
Trail weight: 6 lb 1 oz, 6 lbs 15 oz
Style: double wall freestanding with extended vestibule
Seasons: 3
Door: 2 side
Floor area: 44 sq ft
Peak height: 42 in
Pros: huge vestibule for covering gear or extra hangout space; short 12 inch poles; relatively afordable; bikepacking-specific stuff sack that attaches directly to handlebars; convenient features like helmet holder and gear loft
Cons: very heavy
Yes you read that right: this tent weighs over 6 pounds! It may be the most bikepacking-friendly 6 pound tent out there though. The poles fold down to 12 inches and the stuff sack is designed to mount directly on your handlebars, though for rough riding you’ll want a more stable attachment system.
For the price, and even for the weight, this tent and its 28 square foot extended vestibule provide an impressive amount of covered space. While I normally suggest couples consider a 3-person tent for long bikepacking trips, the extra gear and changing space in the vestibule should take the pressure off sharing a 2-person model. If you bikepack in places that are often rainy, muddy, or shadeless, the extra covered space will definitely be appreciated.
As with the Copper Spur bikepack models, Big Agnes has added webbing straps for helmets and for drying clothes atop the tent, both simple features that are surprisingly helpful when you need them. The three person version is a monster of a tent at nearly 7 lbs, but I could see it working well as a family bikepacking tent for a couple and their young kid.
Check price or buy Blacktail Hotel Bikepack:
Hilleberg Nallo (2, 3 person)
Price: $855, $920
Trail weight: 5 lbs 5 oz, 5 lbs 12 oz
Style: tunnel staked
Seasons: 4
Door: 1 front
Floor area: 28 sq ft, 34.4 sq ft
Peak height: 39 in, 41 in
Pros: more weather and wind-resistant than 3-season tents; relatively lightweight for a 4-season tent
Cons: expensive; heavy compared to 3-season tents; more involved to set up; cozy interior size; not freestanding
The 4-season tunnel-style Nallo is a departure from other bikepacking tent styles in this list. It earned its spot as a relatively popular choice among long-haul bicycle tourers on quit-your-job-sell-your-house types of trips. In this case the high price may be worth it when averaged over many nights, and the 4-season capabilities can come in handy if you find yourself in Mongolia during winter.
The Nallo is considered lightweight for a 4-season tent, but it’s the second-heaviest tent in this list. The two person size is snug for a couple, so for a few extra ounces it may be worth upgrading to the 3 person size or the GT extended vestibule version for a livable long-term space.
The setup, while fairly intuitive, is more time-consuming than other bikepacking tents listed here. Though only corner stakes are needed, the Nallo is not freestanding. The poles are standard length and fold down to 19 inches. In hot climates the lack of large mesh areas could be uncomfortable.
If you’re in a position to get use out of the Nallo, you probably already know it and have 4-season bikepacking tents on your radar. Otherwise I wouldn’t recommend it to most bikepackers.
Check price or buy Hilleberg Nallo:
Ultralight Bikepacking Tents
Most of the tents in this post are reasonably lightweight for their class, but a few stand out for their focus on ultralight design and materials. These tents are more expensive and can require a bit more care to keep them in good shape. Most are single-wall and non-freestanding, and generally lack bells and whistles like gear lofts and pockets. If you’re in search of an ultralight fully-enclosed shelter (i.e. not a tarp or bivy) for bikepacking and don’t mind the tradeoffs, these are your standout options.
All these ultralight bikepacking tents are described in detail above. Click the name of a tent to scroll up to its description.
| Tent | Price | Weight | Style |
| Zpacks Plex Solo | $629 (with carbon pole) | 16.7 oz (with carbon pole) | pyramid, staked single wall |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | $280 (with aluminum pole) | 1 lb 13.7 oz (with aluminum pole) | pyramid, staked single wall |
| Gossamer Gear The Two | $412 | 1 lb 13.2 oz | staked single wall |
| Zpacks Free Duo | $849 | 1 lb 14.1 oz | freestanding single wall |
| Zpacks Free Trio | $949 | 2 lbs 2.6 oz | freestanding single wall |
Most Affordable Bikepacking Tents
The bikepacking tents in this roundup are all reasonably high quality, but they range widely in price, weight, and features. For those on a budget, here’s a selection of the best cheap (as in affordable, not low-quality) bikepacking tents available.
Each of these budget bikepacking tents is described in detail up above. Click a tent name to scroll up to its description.
| Tent | Price | Weight | Style |
| Hyke and Byke Yosemite 1p | $105 | 3 lbs 7 oz | freestanding double wall |
| Tarptent Rainbow | $279 | 2 lbs 2 oz | staked single wall |
| Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo | $280 (with aluminum pole) | 1 lb 13.7 oz (with aluminum pole) | pyramid, staked single wall |
| Big Sky Soul 1P | $300 | 2 lbs 6 oz | freestanding (inc. vestibule) double wall |
| Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2 | $120 | 5 lbs | freestanding double wall |
| Tarptent Double Rainbow | $319 | 2 lbs 3.7 oz | staked single wall |
| Big Sky Soul 2P Bikepack | $350 | 2 lbs 15 oz | freestanding (inc. vestibule) double wall |
If you’re looking for a budget bikepacking tent, don’t forget about used gear! Here are some places to look for lightly used tents at reduced prices:
A Great Bikepacking Tent Is…
Lightweight
Obviously no one wants to haul more weight up the hill than necessary. Packing styles vary though, with some folks prioritizing a minimalist gear list while others optimize for comfort, versatility, or affordability.
If you’re shopping for a new bikepacking tent and want something reasonably lightweight that won’t bog you down, aim to at least stay under these generous thresholds:
- 1 person tent: under 3 pounds
- 2 person tent: under 4 pounds
- 3 person tent: under 5 pounds
If a lightweight bikepacking setup is a priority for you, aim to beat each of those thresholds by at least a pound. For example, around 1.5 pounds is a good weight for a lightweight solo tent (single wall and non-freestanding — see below for more on those).
Note on weights in this post: tent weights are usually measured either as trail weight, which doesn’t include stakes and stuff sacks, or packed weight, which does. I’ve used trail weights for this post because that helps us judge the weight of the actual tent body with less distraction. Keep in mind that bikepacking tents with burlier stuff sacks will have slightly higher packed weights and this might not be reflected in the listed trail weights.
Not Too Bulky
While backpackers are especially weight-sensitive — they feel every ounce in their shoulders and knees — bikepackers can be more sensitive to the size and shape of our packed gear. Instead of a roomy backpack we have to Tetris our gear into nooks and crannies on our bike. A rack setup is more forgiving for larger tents, but soft bikepacking bags can be a challenge.
This is the main benefit of bikepacking-specific tent models, which usually limit folded pole length to 12 or 14 inches. This is an easier length to strap to a seat bag or stuff into panniers, and it can even fit between drop handlebars. The shorter length isn’t strictly necessary – I’ve used 18 inch tent poles on drop handlebars by strapping them out in front of a handlebar bag – but it can be helpful.
Keep in mind that a shorter pole bundle will be a bit thicker, which makes it harder to carry in some of the less standard locations (like strapped to your down tube). In summary, before choosing your bikepacking tent give some thought to where and how you’ll pack it on your bike.
Freestanding, Maybe
If you don’t need any stakes to pitch your tent, it’s freestanding. You might still choose to stake out the corners for stability, but it’s not critical to the structure. While staked tents work well for wilderness backpacking and are usually a bit lighter, freestanding tents are less fiddly to pitch and very handy for the more frequent populated areas on most bikepacking routes.
While bikepacking I’ve pitched my tent on patios, in garages, inside someone’s living room as mosquito protection, in abandoned buildings, and in concrete parking lots – all much easier without stakes. In my experience a freestanding tent is important for bikepacking abroad, or even long-haul bike routes within the US, and all the unpredictability those types of trips entail.
On the other hand, if you plan to stick with shorter trips in unpopulated areas and you prefer a lightweight gear list, a non-freestanding tent can reduce weight and bulk.
Some tents are semi-freestanding and only need a couple stakes, a compromise that can make life a little easier when pounding in stakes isn’t an option. It’s also common for freestanding tents to have a non-freestanding vestibule, which usually isn’t a huge sacrifice. It’s certainly possible to guy out a couple corners by anchoring to rocks, furniture, or your bike. A tent that only needs a few corner stakes will be less hassle in this case than a trekking-pole style that needs 6-8 stakes.
Note on trekking-pole-supported tents: Many of the lightest backpacking tents are designed to pitch with trekking poles, saving backpackers the weight of carrying additional tent poles. As bikepackers we don’t carry trekking poles, so do these tents work for us? Actually yes, many offer the option of buying lightweight folding poles along with the tent. This can be a great choice for folks who use the same tent for hiking and backpacking, as long as you won’t need to pitch without stakes very often (they tend to be very stake-dependent). Bring the folding tent poles while bikepacking, and save a few ounces by using your trekking poles when hiking.
Double Walled, Maybe
A traditional tent is double-walled: a mostly mesh interior with waterproof floor, and a separate rain fly that can optionally be attached over the top. This is ideal for versatility, weather protection, and preventing condensation, but it’s heavier.
A single-wall tent is made from one layer that aims to keep weather out while still ventilating in key locations. Single-wall tents are often lighter but can collect condensation inside if not designed carefully. They’re usually lightweight 3-season backpacking tents, and they aren’t suitable for really nasty weather. They’re also less comfortable in hot weather, something to consider if you’ll be traveling to tropical climates.
To choose between single-wall and double-wall, consider the type of bikepacking you’ll be doing. The tradeoffs are similar to freestanding versus staked. For a long trip through varied climates double-walled is much more versatile. On a hot muggy night you can use the mesh inner alone for bug protection, and in a nasty storm the separation of the rainfly and inner will offer more warmth and better weather protection. If you plan to mainly bikepack in unpopulated areas and want to keep your gear list light, a single wall tent is a good choice.
Stealthy Neutral Color
Bikepacking and bicycle travel, especially over long distances, often involves wild camping or “stealth camping” in places where we’d rather not call attention to our home for the night. For these cases it’s nice to have a tent that blends into the landscape. The muted greens and browns of most tents listed below work well against a variety of backdrops (forest, desert, etc), and grey isn’t bad either. Avoid bright oranges and reds.
Some tents come with reflective markers and guy lines to help you find your tent in the dark. This can be helpful but also makes you more visible at night, so consider your specific needs.
Appropriate for the Weather
Tents are usually designated as 3-season (spring, summer, fall) or 4-season (winter-capable). Four season tents are heavier but more robust and can handle more wind and snow. For most fair-weather bikepackers a 3-season tent is best. If you plan on winter bikepacking or want to travel through varied climates and seasons on your bike, a 4-season tent — or at least a robust double-wall 3-season tent — is a good idea.
Among double-wall tents, some inners are mostly mesh while others use larger panels of fabric. More mesh is good for ventilation in hot and humid climates while more fabric is good for cold and windy weather. This is a minor point and doesn’t make a huge difference, but might be worth considering if you have your eye on a specific trip.
Roomy Enough
Each tent model is designed for a specific number of people: 1 person tents are for solo bikepackers, 2 person tents for pairs, etc. They’re designed to fit exactly that number of sleepers side-by-side with little room left over. Filling all the spots in your tent is the best way to minimize weight and bulk, but there are a few cases where you might want some extra space.
Solo travelers on long-haul trips sometimes prefer a 2 person tent so there’s room to stretch out and bring more gear inside, especially if their body is on the bigger or taller side. Similarly, couples on long trips can benefit from the extra space of a 3 person tent; it’s definitely appreciated when my husband and I bikepack together! Couples with a dog or small child will need a 3 person tent, or maybe even a 4 person tent, to be comfy. Err on the side of more space if you anticipate hunkering down in your tent for a few days to wait out weather or simply get some rest on a long trip.
On sharing tents: Sometimes friends want to save weight by sharing a tent on a bikepacking trip. My personal recommendation is: don’t do it! Individual tents only, unless you’re a couple or really good friends. Bikepacking is tiring and a good night’s sleep is precious. You’ll value having your own space at night.
Footprint or No Footprint?
Many tents come with footprints and ground sheets. Do you really need these? My opinion is that they add extra unnecessary weight. I prefer to be a bit selective about where I put my tent down and simply let the tent’s floor double as a ground sheet. That said, a ground sheet will prolong the life of your tent floor if you log a lot of nights under the stars. A lightweight semi-disposable groundsheet made from Tyvek or polycryo is a good compromise.
Common Questions About Bikepacking Tents
There isn’t necessarily a difference, and many tents work well for both. In both cases the tent should be lightweight and reasonably compact. Bikepackers may prefer a freestanding tent while backpackers may want a trekking-pole-supported tent.
Generally yes, if you want to ride routes outside of very populated areas (or just want to save money on hotels) you’ll want a tent or other shelter for bikepacking. Other options are a tarp, bivy, or hammock, but a tent is the most common and popular bikepacking shelter.
The goal is to keep your tent as light as possible, but its weight depends on a lot of factors: how many people it fits, whether it needs to handle winter weather, and how much you’re willing to pay for it, to name the big ones. Ideally a bikepacking tent would weigh between around 20 ounces (for an ultralight solo tent) up to a maximum of 6 pounds for a winter-worthy 3-person tent. Aim to keep a solo or 2-person tent under 3.5 pounds.
More Bikepacking Resources
If you found this helpful, you might also like these:
- Bikepacking Food Guide
- The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route: Essential Q&A
- How to Find Riding Companions for Bikepacking and Touring
Or visit the bikepacking section for lots more!
About the Author
Hi there, I’m Alissa. I’ve traveled over 17,000 miles by bike and still can’t stop planning my next ride (and helping you plan yours). Pavement and panniers or singletrack and seat bag, I love it all. On my bike I feel free. Learn more or say hi.
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Great article on choices and what to consider when buying a tent. There have been a lot of positive reviews for Durston tents the last few years. It’s a treking pole tent that’s affordable and light weight plus the options for one and two person versions are quite impressive. There is an option for their Z-flick pole which breaks down to 12 inches, ideal for bikepacking. My X-Mid 2 Solid with optional poles set me back a little over $400, tax included, with the weight for everything around 44 oz. It should be here soon. Can’t wait to try it out.
Thanks John, I’ve heard good things about the Durston and I did include it in my solo backpacking tents roundup, but I had to be really selective with trekking pole tents in this post since they don’t suit everyone’s bikepacking style. So many good options! Sounds like it will work out well for you, and I hope you enjoy it!
I’ve used the Durston X mid 1P on a few short trips and been very happy with it. It’s double wall, quite spacious and very easy to set up. I had carbon fiber polls custom made and they have worked very well.