The 8 Best Two-Person Tents, Tested All Over America

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Frances Crouter

People / Frances Crouter

From campgrounds in national parks to music festivals, picking the right two-person tent for your next outdoor trip can make or break your experience.Most tents on the marketcome with a wide range of bells and whistles, like waterproof material, extra doors and windows, and designs geared toward easy setup and take down. However, the features you need will vary based on the type of camping you’ll be doing.We tested 18 tents across the country for ease of setup, ease of use, performance, portability, design, durability, disassembly, and value to find the best two-person tents for your next big adventure.Keep reading to discover the best two-person tents PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ at REI$174Jump to ReviewBest Budget:REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent at REI$149Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Owners:Poler 2+ Person Tent at Amazon$280Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Ultralight:Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent at Mountainhardwear.comJump to ReviewBest Lightweight:MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent at Amazon$456Jump to ReviewBest for Backpackers:SALEBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Amazon$530$395Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent at Amazon$600Jump to Review

From campgrounds in national parks to music festivals, picking the right two-person tent for your next outdoor trip can make or break your experience.

Most tents on the marketcome with a wide range of bells and whistles, like waterproof material, extra doors and windows, and designs geared toward easy setup and take down. However, the features you need will vary based on the type of camping you’ll be doing.

We tested 18 tents across the country for ease of setup, ease of use, performance, portability, design, durability, disassembly, and value to find the best two-person tents for your next big adventure.

Keep reading to discover the best two-person tents PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ at REI$174Jump to ReviewBest Budget:REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent at REI$149Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Owners:Poler 2+ Person Tent at Amazon$280Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Ultralight:Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent at Mountainhardwear.comJump to ReviewBest Lightweight:MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent at Amazon$456Jump to ReviewBest for Backpackers:SALEBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Amazon$530$395Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent at Amazon$600Jump to Review

Best Overall:REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ at REI$174Jump to ReviewBest Budget:REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent at REI$149Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Owners:Poler 2+ Person Tent at Amazon$280Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Ultralight:Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent at Mountainhardwear.comJump to ReviewBest Lightweight:MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent at Amazon$456Jump to ReviewBest for Backpackers:SALEBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Amazon$530$395Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent at Amazon$600Jump to Review

Best Overall:REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ at REI$174Jump to Review

Best Overall:REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ at REI$174

Best Overall:

Best Budget:REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent at REI$149Jump to Review

Best Budget:REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent at REI$149

Best Budget:

Best for Pet Owners:Poler 2+ Person Tent at Amazon$280Jump to Review

Best for Pet Owners:Poler 2+ Person Tent at Amazon$280

Best for Pet Owners:

Best for Beginners:Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent at Amazon$160Jump to Review

Best for Beginners:Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent at Amazon$160

Best for Beginners:

Best Ultralight:Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent at Mountainhardwear.comJump to Review

Best Ultralight:Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent at Mountainhardwear.com

Best Ultralight:

Best Lightweight:MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent at Amazon$456Jump to Review

Best Lightweight:MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent at Amazon$456

Best Lightweight:

Best for Backpackers:SALEBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Amazon$530$395Jump to Review

Best for Backpackers:SALEBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Amazon$530$395

Best for Backpackers:

SALE

Best Investment:Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent at Amazon$600Jump to Review

Best Investment:Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent at Amazon$600

Best Investment:

Best OverallREI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+PHOTO: REI$174 at REIStar QualitiesLightweight and easy to packExtra airflow from adjustable flaps on rainflyHubbed pole systemRed FlagsElastic connecting the poles may not be long lastingThis REI two-person tent impressed our team thanks to its easy assembly. It has a “hubbed” pole system, meaning all the poles are already connected like spokes, making setup a total breeze. It’s very lightweight and easy to pick up and move around, especially if you’re on a slight slope or particularly rocky spot. The tent itself is made of nylon and features two vented flaps in the fly that pop out for boosted airflow, It’s also compact and comes with a carry sack that’s ideal for backpacking or bike trips.Plastic clips and Velcro fasteners are included to attach the rainfly to the poles. All the hardware felt sturdy, as well as the poles and waterproof tent fabric. We did note the elastic that holds the pole sections together seemed like it would wear out after a while, though that’s fairly easy to replace if needed. Also, the “two plus” sizing is a bit misleading. After testing with two adults and a dog, we found that any extra people would have been too much. If you’re traveling with your family and are hoping to all sleep in this tent, it may be a tight squeeze.Ultimately, we ranked this as the best overall because of performance and value. If you’re going to be doing a lot of camping while on the go and want a small, easy-to-use tent, this is the perfect option for you.Colors Available:3 |Material:40-denier ripstop nylon |Height:42 inches (peak) |Floor Area:33.75 square feet |Packed Size:7 x 20.5 inchesPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances Crouter

Best OverallREI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+PHOTO: REI$174 at REI

Best OverallREI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+

Best Overall

REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+

PHOTO: REI

$174 at REI

Star QualitiesLightweight and easy to packExtra airflow from adjustable flaps on rainflyHubbed pole systemRed FlagsElastic connecting the poles may not be long lasting

Star QualitiesLightweight and easy to packExtra airflow from adjustable flaps on rainflyHubbed pole system

Lightweight and easy to pack

Extra airflow from adjustable flaps on rainfly

Hubbed pole system

Red FlagsElastic connecting the poles may not be long lasting

Elastic connecting the poles may not be long lasting

This REI two-person tent impressed our team thanks to its easy assembly. It has a “hubbed” pole system, meaning all the poles are already connected like spokes, making setup a total breeze. It’s very lightweight and easy to pick up and move around, especially if you’re on a slight slope or particularly rocky spot. The tent itself is made of nylon and features two vented flaps in the fly that pop out for boosted airflow, It’s also compact and comes with a carry sack that’s ideal for backpacking or bike trips.

Plastic clips and Velcro fasteners are included to attach the rainfly to the poles. All the hardware felt sturdy, as well as the poles and waterproof tent fabric. We did note the elastic that holds the pole sections together seemed like it would wear out after a while, though that’s fairly easy to replace if needed. Also, the “two plus” sizing is a bit misleading. After testing with two adults and a dog, we found that any extra people would have been too much. If you’re traveling with your family and are hoping to all sleep in this tent, it may be a tight squeeze.

Ultimately, we ranked this as the best overall because of performance and value. If you’re going to be doing a lot of camping while on the go and want a small, easy-to-use tent, this is the perfect option for you.

Colors Available:3 |Material:40-denier ripstop nylon |Height:42 inches (peak) |Floor Area:33.75 square feet |Packed Size:7 x 20.5 inches

PHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances CrouterPHOTO: People / Frances Crouter

Best BudgetREI Co-op Trailmade 2 TentPHOTO: REI$149 at REIStar QualitiesGreat option for novice campersAssembly was incredibly easy and user-friendlyRed FlagsNo standing roomWhether you’re in a pinch and need a tent without breaking the bank, or you’re dipping your toes into all things outdoorsy, the REI Trailmade Two-Person Tent is a quality yet budget-friendly tent. One thing we love about this tent is how easy it is to assemble, which is in large part because the tent is secured to metal poles with hooks rather than fabric inserts. Instead of sliding each pole through long fabric pieces, you simply fasten each hook into place, andvoila— you’re all set. The polyester tent fabric also feels high quality enough to endure various weather conditions and terrain.A note: It’s just under 40 inches of peak height, so there’s kneeling room only. There isn’t much extra space, and while it does fit two adults, you can’t fit much else. This is something to keep in mind if you’ll be traveling with large packs or with pets. If you don’t have a car to store cargo on your trip, this may not be the best choice for you. However, the ease of assembly, quality of the materials, and low price point make this a great option if you don’t need a tent with lots of bells and whistles.Colors Available:2 |Material:Polyester/Nylon |Height:39.9 inches (peak) |Floor Area:31.7 square feet |Packed Size:8.5 x 22 inchesPHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica Christopher

Best BudgetREI Co-op Trailmade 2 TentPHOTO: REI$149 at REI

Best BudgetREI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent

Best Budget

REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent

$149 at REI

Star QualitiesGreat option for novice campersAssembly was incredibly easy and user-friendlyRed FlagsNo standing room

Star QualitiesGreat option for novice campersAssembly was incredibly easy and user-friendly

Great option for novice campers

Assembly was incredibly easy and user-friendly

Red FlagsNo standing room

No standing room

Whether you’re in a pinch and need a tent without breaking the bank, or you’re dipping your toes into all things outdoorsy, the REI Trailmade Two-Person Tent is a quality yet budget-friendly tent. One thing we love about this tent is how easy it is to assemble, which is in large part because the tent is secured to metal poles with hooks rather than fabric inserts. Instead of sliding each pole through long fabric pieces, you simply fasten each hook into place, andvoila— you’re all set. The polyester tent fabric also feels high quality enough to endure various weather conditions and terrain.

A note: It’s just under 40 inches of peak height, so there’s kneeling room only. There isn’t much extra space, and while it does fit two adults, you can’t fit much else. This is something to keep in mind if you’ll be traveling with large packs or with pets. If you don’t have a car to store cargo on your trip, this may not be the best choice for you. However, the ease of assembly, quality of the materials, and low price point make this a great option if you don’t need a tent with lots of bells and whistles.

Colors Available:2 |Material:Polyester/Nylon |Height:39.9 inches (peak) |Floor Area:31.7 square feet |Packed Size:8.5 x 22 inches

PHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica ChristopherPHOTO: People / Jessica Christopher

Best for Pet OwnersPoler 2+ Person TentPHOTO: REI$280 at Amazon$140 at REIView on Poler.comStar QualitiesMore legroom than other two-person tents we testedColor-coded loops and hooksRainfly blocked high winds overnightRed FlagsFairly heavy once packedThis Poler two-person tent won our vote for pet owners because of how much extra legroom there is. Although it’s only forty inches at its peak height, the gently domed shape makes it feel more spacious, even with two adults and a dog inside. The assembly process is fairly easy since the loops and hooks used to attach the tent to its metal framing are color-coded. The disassembly was even easier: The tent folded up neatly into the carrying case. The instructions are a bit vague and sparse, so if you’re a camping beginner, the tent could take longer to assemble. Once packed, the tent weighs about six pounds; if you do plan on backpacking or have a long way to carry to your campsite, this could be inconvenient.Overnight, we found that the rainfly (which is made of durable 30-denier ripstop polyester) did a good job of blocking high winds. While it did start to heat up when the sun first rose in the morning, the all-screen base allowed a good amount of airflow. While this would be a more practical feature in a warmer climate, we appreciated the extra ventilation.Colors Available:2|Material:210T ripstop polyester |Height:40 inches (peak) |Floor Area:35.42 square feet |Packed Size:7.5 x 18 inches

Best for Pet OwnersPoler 2+ Person TentPHOTO: REI$280 at Amazon$140 at REIView on Poler.com

Best for Pet OwnersPoler 2+ Person Tent

Best for Pet Owners

Poler 2+ Person Tent

$280 at Amazon$140 at REIView on Poler.com

Star QualitiesMore legroom than other two-person tents we testedColor-coded loops and hooksRainfly blocked high winds overnightRed FlagsFairly heavy once packed

Star QualitiesMore legroom than other two-person tents we testedColor-coded loops and hooksRainfly blocked high winds overnight

More legroom than other two-person tents we tested

Color-coded loops and hooks

Rainfly blocked high winds overnight

Red FlagsFairly heavy once packed

Fairly heavy once packed

This Poler two-person tent won our vote for pet owners because of how much extra legroom there is. Although it’s only forty inches at its peak height, the gently domed shape makes it feel more spacious, even with two adults and a dog inside. The assembly process is fairly easy since the loops and hooks used to attach the tent to its metal framing are color-coded. The disassembly was even easier: The tent folded up neatly into the carrying case. The instructions are a bit vague and sparse, so if you’re a camping beginner, the tent could take longer to assemble. Once packed, the tent weighs about six pounds; if you do plan on backpacking or have a long way to carry to your campsite, this could be inconvenient.

Overnight, we found that the rainfly (which is made of durable 30-denier ripstop polyester) did a good job of blocking high winds. While it did start to heat up when the sun first rose in the morning, the all-screen base allowed a good amount of airflow. While this would be a more practical feature in a warmer climate, we appreciated the extra ventilation.

Colors Available:2|Material:210T ripstop polyester |Height:40 inches (peak) |Floor Area:35.42 square feet |Packed Size:7.5 x 18 inches

Best for BeginnersMarmot Tungsten 2 Person TentPHOTO: Marmot$160 at Amazon$249 at Marmot.com$249 at REIStar QualitiesClip at the top of the tent for hanging a lanternFit two adults and a medium-sized dog comfortablySturdy aluminum polesRed FlagsMesh material on the top of the tent may rip easilyThe Marmot Tungsten two-person tent won our vote for beginners due to its low price point and great features. The material is surprisingly high quality — the aluminum poles are strong and sturdy, and the tent fabric’s moisture-wicking properties are sure to protect you from rain or moisture. Also, it feels fairly spacious on the inside. Two people and their packs (and a medium-sized dog!) all fit comfortably. Another feature we really enjoyed was a clip at the top of the tent for hanging your lantern so you can have hands-free light at night.The biggest drawback for this one was the setup — the instructions were fairly vague, so setting it up took almost forty minutes. However, disassembly was way more intuitive and took about half the time.Colors Available:2 |Material:Polyester |Height:Not listed |Floor Area:30.1 square feet |Packed Size:24.4 x 5.9 inchesPHOTO: People / Ashley CraigerPHOTO: People / Ashley CraigerPHOTO: People / Ashley Craiger

Best for BeginnersMarmot Tungsten 2 Person TentPHOTO: Marmot$160 at Amazon$249 at Marmot.com$249 at REI

Best for BeginnersMarmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent

Best for Beginners

Marmot Tungsten 2 Person Tent

PHOTO: Marmot

$160 at Amazon$249 at Marmot.com$249 at REI

Star QualitiesClip at the top of the tent for hanging a lanternFit two adults and a medium-sized dog comfortablySturdy aluminum polesRed FlagsMesh material on the top of the tent may rip easily

Star QualitiesClip at the top of the tent for hanging a lanternFit two adults and a medium-sized dog comfortablySturdy aluminum poles

Clip at the top of the tent for hanging a lantern

Fit two adults and a medium-sized dog comfortably

Sturdy aluminum poles

Red FlagsMesh material on the top of the tent may rip easily

Mesh material on the top of the tent may rip easily

The Marmot Tungsten two-person tent won our vote for beginners due to its low price point and great features. The material is surprisingly high quality — the aluminum poles are strong and sturdy, and the tent fabric’s moisture-wicking properties are sure to protect you from rain or moisture. Also, it feels fairly spacious on the inside. Two people and their packs (and a medium-sized dog!) all fit comfortably. Another feature we really enjoyed was a clip at the top of the tent for hanging your lantern so you can have hands-free light at night.

The biggest drawback for this one was the setup — the instructions were fairly vague, so setting it up took almost forty minutes. However, disassembly was way more intuitive and took about half the time.

Colors Available:2 |Material:Polyester |Height:Not listed |Floor Area:30.1 square feet |Packed Size:24.4 x 5.9 inches

PHOTO: People / Ashley CraigerPHOTO: People / Ashley CraigerPHOTO: People / Ashley Craiger

Best UltralightMountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 TentPHOTO: Mountain HardwearView on Mountainhardwear.comView on BackcountryView on Publiclands.com

Best UltralightMountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent

Best Ultralight

Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent

PHOTO: Mountain Hardwear

View on Mountainhardwear.comView on BackcountryView on Publiclands.com

Star QualitiesNo extra tools required for setupSeams of the tent fabric feel strong and secureRed FlagsTight squeeze for two

Star QualitiesNo extra tools required for setupSeams of the tent fabric feel strong and secure

No extra tools required for setup

Seams of the tent fabric feel strong and secure

Red FlagsTight squeeze for two

Tight squeeze for two

The instructions are simple and setup took less than five minutes. Bonus: No extra tools are required to set it up, so it’s ideal if you’re trying to minimize the amount of gear you’re traveling with. Throughout the night, it remained sturdy, even when facing high winds. Just take extra care with the stakes and make sure they’re secure since the tent is so light.

We found two main drawbacks with this tent — the size and the color. While it’s big for an ultralight tent, it isn’t exactly comfortable and roomy for two people, especially if you’re both on the taller side. The headspace feels especially narrow when you’re lying down, though the compact nature is a big reason why it’s so lightweight. As far as the color, while we do like the look of the white rainfly, it will most likely show dirt and general wear and tear sooner rather than later.

Colors Available:1 |Material:Nylon |Height:41 inches (peak) |Floor Area:28.1 square feet |Packed Size:6 x 12 inches

PHOTO: People / John SomerallPHOTO: People / John SomerallPHOTO: People / John SomerallPHOTO: People / John SomerallPHOTO: People / John Somerall

Best LightweightMSR FreeLite 2-Person TentPHOTO: MSR$456 at AmazonView on Msrgear.com$465 at Backcountry

Best LightweightMSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent

Best Lightweight

MSR FreeLite 2-Person Tent

PHOTO: MSR

$456 at AmazonView on Msrgear.com$465 at Backcountry

Star QualitiesEasy-to-follow Instruction diagramsTent remained completely dry during an intense rainstormRed FlagsNo carrying strap

Star QualitiesEasy-to-follow Instruction diagramsTent remained completely dry during an intense rainstorm

Easy-to-follow Instruction diagrams

Tent remained completely dry during an intense rainstorm

Red FlagsNo carrying strap

No carrying strap

Although it performed well, the natural drawback is that it is pretty cramped on the inside. Three people slept inside for the test, which was a tight squeeze for this two-person tent, and even with two people, there isn’t room to sit up or move around. Also, the carrying case lacked a strap which isn’t convenient.

Colors Available:1 |Material:Nylon |Height:39 inches (peak) |Floor Area:29 square feet |Packed Size:18 x 4.5 inches

PHOTO: People / Morgan NollPHOTO: People / Morgan NollPHOTO: People / Morgan NollPHOTO: People / Morgan Noll

Best for BackpackersBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 TentPHOTO: Amazon$530$395 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Curated.comStar QualitiesColor-coded hardwareEasy to transportStakes are optionalRed FlagsStakes don’t have any hook or crook to attach guy linesThe first thing we noticed about this tent was how easy it was to assemble. Each side is color-coded to match the proper side of the tent, and no additional tools are required (although a hammer would speed up the process of inserting stakes if it’s windy). It weighs just over three pounds when packed so it’s easy to transport. The tent and its pieces are packed up neatly so you can easily put it in a backpack without taking up too much space. This high-quality tent is solid and sturdy.However, all these space and time-saving perks come at a cost — the tent is not very long, so if you’re tall, it may be a bit uncomfortable to sleep in. Another drawback: This is one of the more expensive tents we tested and would most certainly be an investment. But considering how many features Big Agnes packs into those three pounds, we found the price worth it.Colors Available:4 |Material:Nylon/fabric |Height:40 inches (peak) |Floor Area:19 square feet |Packed Size:6 x 19.5 inches

Best for BackpackersBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 TentPHOTO: Amazon$530$395 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Curated.com

Best for BackpackersBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent

Best for Backpackers

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent

PHOTO: Amazon

$530$395 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Curated.com

Star QualitiesColor-coded hardwareEasy to transportStakes are optionalRed FlagsStakes don’t have any hook or crook to attach guy lines

Star QualitiesColor-coded hardwareEasy to transportStakes are optional

Color-coded hardware

Easy to transport

Stakes are optional

Red FlagsStakes don’t have any hook or crook to attach guy lines

Stakes don’t have any hook or crook to attach guy lines

The first thing we noticed about this tent was how easy it was to assemble. Each side is color-coded to match the proper side of the tent, and no additional tools are required (although a hammer would speed up the process of inserting stakes if it’s windy). It weighs just over three pounds when packed so it’s easy to transport. The tent and its pieces are packed up neatly so you can easily put it in a backpack without taking up too much space. This high-quality tent is solid and sturdy.

However, all these space and time-saving perks come at a cost — the tent is not very long, so if you’re tall, it may be a bit uncomfortable to sleep in. Another drawback: This is one of the more expensive tents we tested and would most certainly be an investment. But considering how many features Big Agnes packs into those three pounds, we found the price worth it.

Colors Available:4 |Material:Nylon/fabric |Height:40 inches (peak) |Floor Area:19 square feet |Packed Size:6 x 19.5 inches

Best InvestmentNemo Dagger Osmo TentPHOTO: REI$600 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Nemoequipment.comStar QualitiesSpacious interior fit two people and both packsCarrying case keeps all the parts organizedNo leaking inside during intense rainstormRed FlagsDidn’t come with a footprintThis three-person tent knocked it out of the park in many areas. For one, all of the pieces are color-coded, which makes setup easy, especially when fitting the rain covering. Also, the poles are already connected, which gives you a nearly instant frame that you can pull the tent fabric onto with ease. Though we didn’t need any tools and were able to push the stakes in with the bottom of our shoes, this may vary depending on the terrain. There were no instructions included in this tent, which made us nervous at first since there were quite a few pieces, but we figured it out without any issues.We were taken aback at just how big it felt inside. Even with two people, we could still fit two packs, too, which was impossible with other tents we tested. One night during the test, there was heavy rain, thunder, and wind, but there was absolutely zero leaking inside the tent. Even though the ground was flooding, we stayed completely dry. And despite the high winds, our sleep was not disrupted. If you’re an experienced camper, you’ve most likely had a time or two when you woke up to rain creeping through a zipper or flimsy rainfly. Plus, it was just as easy to tear down as it was to put together. The carrying case was so compact that it could fit inside a backpack, so this tent is also ideal if you’re working with limited space.This tent got our vote as Best Investment because it performed well in many ways, but It is one of the most expensive tents we tested. However, if you’re an avid camper and outdoors person, the splurge is completely worth it.Colors Available:2 |Material:Nylon/polyester |Height:42 inches (peak) |Floor Area:31.3 square feet |Packed Size:19.5 x 6.5 inches

Best InvestmentNemo Dagger Osmo TentPHOTO: REI$600 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Nemoequipment.com

Best InvestmentNemo Dagger Osmo Tent

Best Investment

Nemo Dagger Osmo Tent

$600 at Amazon$371 at REIView on Nemoequipment.com

Star QualitiesSpacious interior fit two people and both packsCarrying case keeps all the parts organizedNo leaking inside during intense rainstormRed FlagsDidn’t come with a footprint

Star QualitiesSpacious interior fit two people and both packsCarrying case keeps all the parts organizedNo leaking inside during intense rainstorm

Spacious interior fit two people and both packs

Carrying case keeps all the parts organized

No leaking inside during intense rainstorm

Red FlagsDidn’t come with a footprint

Didn’t come with a footprint

This three-person tent knocked it out of the park in many areas. For one, all of the pieces are color-coded, which makes setup easy, especially when fitting the rain covering. Also, the poles are already connected, which gives you a nearly instant frame that you can pull the tent fabric onto with ease. Though we didn’t need any tools and were able to push the stakes in with the bottom of our shoes, this may vary depending on the terrain. There were no instructions included in this tent, which made us nervous at first since there were quite a few pieces, but we figured it out without any issues.

We were taken aback at just how big it felt inside. Even with two people, we could still fit two packs, too, which was impossible with other tents we tested. One night during the test, there was heavy rain, thunder, and wind, but there was absolutely zero leaking inside the tent. Even though the ground was flooding, we stayed completely dry. And despite the high winds, our sleep was not disrupted. If you’re an experienced camper, you’ve most likely had a time or two when you woke up to rain creeping through a zipper or flimsy rainfly. Plus, it was just as easy to tear down as it was to put together. The carrying case was so compact that it could fit inside a backpack, so this tent is also ideal if you’re working with limited space.

This tent got our vote as Best Investment because it performed well in many ways, but It is one of the most expensive tents we tested. However, if you’re an avid camper and outdoors person, the splurge is completely worth it.

Colors Available:2 |Material:Nylon/polyester |Height:42 inches (peak) |Floor Area:31.3 square feet |Packed Size:19.5 x 6.5 inches

What to Know About Two-Person Tents

Ease of Setup

If you’re a beginner, picking a tent that’s easy to assemble is crucial. Setting up camp is already exhausting, and struggling to make sense of a complicated design or vague directions can sour what’s supposed to be a fun adventure. This was why we loved theMSR FreeLite Two-Person Ultralight Backpacking Tent. It featured simple diagrams that give you a visual on how to set it up, which is very helpful if you’re not familiar with the names of different tent parts.

Portability

If you plan on doing any backcountry camping, portability is a must. When camping in untouched places, it’s essential to move camp every night so as not to disturb the wildlife and natural elements, according to theJackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board. (And when enjoying the great outdoors, we want to do our part to ensure we keep getting to enjoy it in the future.) TheBig Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2is an excellent example of a tent that is lightweight and compact once packed, so it’s easy to move from place to place.

Durability

If you want to boost the durability of your tent even further,Bill Gamber, founder of Big Agnes, says that taking care of your tent will go a long way. “We always encourage everybody to store them in an air-conditioned area if [there’s a lot of] humidity." While properly caring for your tent is important, the material it’s made of will surely set you up for success, too.

People / Megan Wood

We consulted with Bill Gamber, founder and president of Big Agnes, on the must-have aspects of a great two-person tent (and what to avoid). With this information in tow, we pulled together our tent options and tested 18 tents total (11 two-person tents) in different regions and climates across the country over more than 150 hours on the following parameters: ease of setup, ease of use, performance, portability, design, durability, disassembly, and value.

Frequently Asked QuestionsThe proper tent size is largely dependent on how you’ll be using your tent. If you plan on just using it for sleep, the size you’re looking for will look very different than if you want a space where you can hang out or if you plan to use anair mattress. However, for plain and simple comfort, a good rule of thumb is to allow about 20 square feet of space for each person sleeping in your tent.The weight of what you’re carrying really only matters if you’re backpacking. If you are driving to a campsite or camping on your own property, the weight of the tent comes down to preference. However, if you plan on backpacking, six pounds will take up quite a bit of real estate.This may put it into perspective for you: A lightweight backpacker carries a base weight (the weight of their pack without food, water, and fuel) of twenty pounds. An ultralight backpacker carries a base weight of ten pounds. In this context, a six-pound tent takes up a lot of weight, so you should aim to carry a lighter tent to maximize room for other essentials. Coming in at just over two pounds while packed, we recommend theMountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tentfor any camper that needs to pack light.

Frequently Asked Questions

The proper tent size is largely dependent on how you’ll be using your tent. If you plan on just using it for sleep, the size you’re looking for will look very different than if you want a space where you can hang out or if you plan to use anair mattress. However, for plain and simple comfort, a good rule of thumb is to allow about 20 square feet of space for each person sleeping in your tent.

The weight of what you’re carrying really only matters if you’re backpacking. If you are driving to a campsite or camping on your own property, the weight of the tent comes down to preference. However, if you plan on backpacking, six pounds will take up quite a bit of real estate.This may put it into perspective for you: A lightweight backpacker carries a base weight (the weight of their pack without food, water, and fuel) of twenty pounds. An ultralight backpacker carries a base weight of ten pounds. In this context, a six-pound tent takes up a lot of weight, so you should aim to carry a lighter tent to maximize room for other essentials. Coming in at just over two pounds while packed, we recommend theMountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tentfor any camper that needs to pack light.

The weight of what you’re carrying really only matters if you’re backpacking. If you are driving to a campsite or camping on your own property, the weight of the tent comes down to preference. However, if you plan on backpacking, six pounds will take up quite a bit of real estate.

This may put it into perspective for you: A lightweight backpacker carries a base weight (the weight of their pack without food, water, and fuel) of twenty pounds. An ultralight backpacker carries a base weight of ten pounds. In this context, a six-pound tent takes up a lot of weight, so you should aim to carry a lighter tent to maximize room for other essentials. Coming in at just over two pounds while packed, we recommend theMountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tentfor any camper that needs to pack light.

Olivia Avittis a writer who has written about a wide range of subjects, from the best home products to wellness stories. For this story, she gathered insights from our testing team and their interview with outdoor expert Bill Gamber, founder of Big Agnes. She also consulted information from the Jackson Hole Travel and Tourism Board that includes camping do’s and don’ts and safety tips to help you explore and travel responsibly.

Our Expert PanelBill Gamberis the founder of Big Agnes, a backpacking company founded in 2000.

Our Expert Panel

Bill Gamberis the founder of Big Agnes, a backpacking company founded in 2000.

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