Exploring the great outdoors alone can be life-changing. Whether you’re trekking across national parks, thru-hiking long trails, or heading out for a spontaneous weekend camp, a single person tent becomes your most important gear companion. Choosing the right tent means balancing weight, space, protection, and ease of use.
In this in-depth guide, we cover everything you need to know about 1-person tents: what they are, why they’re ideal for solo hikers, how to choose one, and our expert-picked list of the best single-person tents for 2025. Whether you’re a minimalist or comfort-seeker, budget shopper or gearhead—this article will help you make the right choice.
What Is a Single Person Tent?
A single person tent is a compact, lightweight shelter designed for one person. These tents typically weigh under 3 pounds and are ideal for solo backpacking, hiking, bikepacking, or minimalist camping.
Solo vs. 2-Person Tents
While 2-person tents offer more room, they also add unnecessary weight and bulk when camping alone. A 1-person tent saves weight, space, and money.
Ideal Use Cases
- Solo backpackers
- Long-distance thru-hikers
- Bikepackers
- Minimalist campers
Common Specs
- Floor size: 82-90 inches long, 25-40 inches wide
- Packed size: 10-18 inches long, 4-6 inches wide
- Weight: 1.5 – 3 pounds (0.7 – 1.4 kg)
Key Benefits of Using a Single Person Tent
1. Ultralight & Compact
Most single person tents weigh significantly less than larger shelters, often under 2 lbs for premium ultralight models. This is a major win for long-distance treks.
2. Fast Setup & Take Down
They typically have fewer poles and are easier to pitch quickly—even in bad weather.
3. Stealth & Versatility
Smaller tents are easier to tuck into remote, off-trail campsites or forested areas.
4. Budget-Friendly Options
Single person tents tend to be less expensive than their 2-person counterparts, making them great for solo beginners or budget travelers.
How to Choose the Best Single Person Tent (Expert Guide)
Weight: Ultralight vs Standard
- Ultralight: < 2 lbs – best for thru-hikers
- Lightweight: 2–2.5 lbs – great balance of comfort and portability
- Standard: 2.5–3 lbs – affordable and roomy, good for beginners
Tent Materials
- Dyneema (DCF): Extremely light and waterproof, but pricey
- Silnylon: Durable and water-resistant, mid-range cost
- Silpoly: Similar to Silnylon but better in wet conditions
Single-Wall vs. Double-Wall
- Single-wall: One layer, lighter, prone to condensation
- Double-wall: Inner mesh + outer fly, better ventilation and protection
Livable Space
Check floor length (for tall hikers), peak height (for sitting up), and vestibules (for gear storage).
Setup Style
- Freestanding: Sets up with its own poles, easier on rocky terrain
- Non-freestanding: Requires trekking poles and staking; lighter weight
Weather Protection
Ensure waterproof seams, bathtub floors, and wind-stable designs.
Top 12 Best Single Person Tents in 2025 [Reviewed & Compared]
1. Zpacks Plex Solo
The Zpacks Plex Solo is widely regarded as one of the most elite ultralight shelters available for solo adventurers. Weighing just 13.9 ounces, it offers an astonishingly low weight-to-performance ratio. Constructed from premium Dyneema Composite Fabric, this tent is fully waterproof and extremely durable against both wind and abrasion. Despite its minimal structure, the Plex Solo provides ample internal space and a generously sized vestibule for gear storage. Its single trekking-pole setup allows for fast pitching even in tough conditions, making it the ideal choice for long-distance thru-hikers who need a dependable, no-fuss shelter that disappears into their pack.
Key Features:
- Weight: 13.9 oz
- Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric
- Type: Non-freestanding (requires trekking pole)
- Best For: Thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers
2. Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1
Perfect for backpackers transitioning into ultralight gear, the Fly Creek HV UL1 offers an impressive blend of light weight and livability. Weighing in at just under 2 pounds, this semi-freestanding tent is made with high-quality ripstop nylon and features a high-volume hub design to maximize headroom. Though it has a tapered floor design, it still provides enough interior comfort for a solo hiker plus gear. Setup is simple and intuitive, and it holds up well in moderate rain and wind. It’s an excellent option for hikers seeking a reliable tent from a trusted brand at a manageable price point.
Key Features:
- Weight: 1 lb 11 oz
- Material: Ripstop Nylon
- Type: Semi-freestanding
- Best For: Lightweight comfort, beginner ultralighters
3. NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO 1P
For those who want luxury in an ultralight package, the NEMO Hornet Elite OSMO 1P delivers in every way. This tent weighs just under 2 pounds and is made from NEMO’s innovative OSMO fabric, which offers superior water repellency and reduced stretch when wet. What sets the Hornet Elite apart is its clever pole geometry that creates extra headroom, dual-stage stuff sack for compact packing, and thoughtful touches like volumizing guy-outs and reinforced corners. This tent is ideal for solo hikers who want a bit more space without tipping the scales.
Key Features:
- Weight: 1 lb 14 oz
- Material: OSMO Nylon Blend
- Type: Semi-freestanding
- Best For: Lightweight comfort, eco-conscious trekkers
4. Tarptent Aeon Li
With a total weight under 1 pound, the Tarptent Aeon Li is a minimalist’s dream. Built from Dyneema and engineered for high performance in rough weather, it’s favored by ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers alike. The Aeon Li’s asymmetrical design allows for more livable interior space while maintaining a sleek, aerodynamic shape. It uses a single trekking pole and stakes for setup, and the included vestibule provides excellent gear coverage. With its quick pitch time and rugged durability, it’s perfect for unpredictable backcountry conditions.
Key Features:
- Weight: 15.8 oz
- Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric
- Type: Non-freestanding
- Best For: Storm protection, minimalist adventurers
5. Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
A perennial favorite in the ultralight community, the Lunar Solo is an excellent balance between performance and price. Weighing just 26 ounces, it uses a single trekking pole for support and has a unique hexagonal floor design that maximizes space and wind resistance. Constructed from durable Silpoly fabric, the Lunar Solo offers excellent resistance to stretching and sagging in wet conditions. Its offset pole structure offers better headroom, and the mesh interior keeps condensation low while allowing excellent airflow. For under $300, it’s one of the best deals in ultralight shelter.
Key Features:
- Weight: 26 oz
- Material: Silpoly
- Type: Non-freestanding
- Best For: Budget-conscious ultralighters
6. REI Co-op Flash Air 1
If you’re new to backpacking or simply prefer trusted brands with great customer service, the REI Flash Air 1 is a worthy contender. It weighs just 1 pound 6 ounces and packs down easily for weekend or multi-day hikes. The hybrid design—part trekking-pole supported, part freestanding—makes it versatile on different terrains. Thoughtful touches like multiple ventilation points, bathtub flooring, and internal gear pockets enhance comfort and usability. It’s one of the best value tents for hikers who want lightweight performance without going full-on minimalist.
Key Features:
- Weight: 1 lb 6 oz
- Material: Silnylon
- Type: Hybrid
- Best For: Beginners, recreational backpackers
7. MSR Hubba NX 1
When durability and comfort take priority over shaving off every last ounce, the MSR Hubba NX 1 is the answer. Weighing 2.7 pounds, this freestanding tent is beloved for its all-around balance of livability, strength, and weather protection. Its symmetrical pole design offers generous vertical walls and an easy-pitch layout. The tent handles wind, rain, and rugged terrain with ease, thanks to MSR’s premium fabrics and sealed seams. If you want a tent that feels roomier and can go the distance in tough environments, the Hubba NX 1 stands out.
Key Features:
- Weight: 2 lb 7 oz
- Material: Ripstop Nylon
- Type: Freestanding
- Best For: Rugged adventures, 3-season durability
8. Durston X-Mid 1
The Durston X-Mid 1 has quickly become a cult favorite among solo hikers for its innovative design and outstanding performance-to-weight ratio. Weighing just 28 ounces, this trekking-pole tent provides incredible interior volume thanks to its rectangular floor and diagonal ridgeline. The dual-door, dual-vestibule layout is uncommon in single-person tents, offering added convenience and ventilation. Its unique geometry minimizes internal condensation and sheds wind effectively, making it a superb all-rounder for variable conditions on the trail.
Key Features:
- Weight: 28 oz
- Material: Silpoly
- Type: Non-freestanding (requires 2 trekking poles)
- Best For: Long-distance hikers, bad weather versatility
9. Gossamer Gear The One
The Gossamer Gear The One is a longtime favorite in the ultralight community. Clocking in at just 20.3 ounces, it’s one of the lightest true solo shelters available. Made from 10D and 20D Silnylon, this tent boasts a roomy interior with a bathtub floor and ample headroom. The dual storm flaps, guylines, and ventilation ensure that it performs well in wind and rain, all while packing down impressively small. For thru-hikers who count every gram, The One offers serious shelter at minimal weight.
Key Features:
- Weight: 20.3 oz
- Material: 10D/20D Silnylon
- Type: Non-freestanding
- Best For: Ultralight thru-hiking, compact packing
10. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 1P
Crafted with performance and minimalism in mind, the Hyperlite Unbound 1P is a Dyneema tent built for serious backcountry missions. Weighing just 19.1 ounces, it offers a snug but protective interior space for solo hikers. Its single-wall construction allows for rapid setup, and the tapered design reduces weight without compromising shelter integrity. The vestibule is generous, and the side-entry door allows easy access even when it’s raining. Built for alpine conditions and long hauls, the Unbound 1P is ideal for minimalist adventurers needing reliable protection.
Key Features:
- Weight: 19.1 oz
- Material: Dyneema Composite Fabric
- Type: Non-freestanding
- Best For: Alpine backpacking, minimalist expeditions
11. Paria Outdoor Products Bryce 1P
The Bryce 1P is a fantastic budget-friendly tent that doesn’t compromise on quality. Weighing in at about 2.5 pounds, it’s made from 20D ripstop Silnylon and features a freestanding design with a single vestibule and front-entry door. It includes a footprint, stakes, and guy lines, making it trail-ready right out of the box. It’s not the lightest option on the market, but it provides excellent value and is a great introduction to lightweight solo shelters.
Key Features:
- Weight: 2 lb 8 oz
- Material: 20D Silnylon
- Type: Freestanding
- Best For: Budget backpackers, all-in-one purchase
12. Naturehike VIK 1 Ultralight
An underrated gem, the Naturehike VIK 1 offers fantastic features for budget-conscious hikers looking to stay ultralight. It weighs about 2.4 pounds and features a built-in footprint, front vestibule, and waterproof single-wall design. The tent packs down tightly and is easy to set up solo. While it may not offer the premium fabrics of higher-end competitors, it still holds up well in three-season conditions. For under $200, the VIK 1 delivers far more than its price tag suggests.
Key Features:
- Weight: 2 lb 6 oz
- Material: 15D Nylon with silicone coating
- Type: Freestanding
- Best For: Value seekers, casual backpackers
Single Person Tents by Type
Ultralight (<2 lbs)
- Zpacks Plex Solo
- Tarptent Aeon Li
- Gossamer Gear The One
Freestanding
- MSR Hubba NX 1
- Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1
- ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1
Budget Options Under $200
- Naturehike Cloud-Up 1
- ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1
Stormproof & Alpine-Ready
- Tarptent Aeon Li
- Hyperlite Echo Shelter System
- MSR Hubba NX 1
Best for Tall Hikers
- Durston X-Mid 1P (excellent interior volume)
- REI Flash Air 1 (long floor length)
Minimalist vs. Comfort Picks
- Minimalist: Zpacks Plex Solo, Gossamer Gear The One
- Comfort-Focused: Durston X-Mid 1P, MSR Hubba NX 1
Single Person Tent vs Bivy Sack vs Hammock
Shelter Breakdown
- Single Person Tent: Enclosed shelter with floor and vestibule
- Bivy Sack: Ultra-compact, no headroom, can be claustrophobic
- Hammock: Suspended shelter, often used with tarp/bug net
Weight Comparison
- Bivy: Lightest (~6-20 oz)
- Tent: Balanced (~13 oz to 4 lbs)
- Hammock with full system: Often ~2-3 lbs
Pros & Cons
Single Person Tent
- ✅ Full coverage & weather protection
- ✅ Livable space
- ❌ May be heavier than bivy or hammock
Bivy Sack
- ✅ Extremely light & compact
- ❌ Low comfort, poor ventilation
Hammock
- ✅ Comfortable sleep (in the right conditions)
- ❌ Requires trees, extra components
Verdict
Choose a single-person tent if you want versatility, stormproofing, and liveable space.
Best Brands That Make Single Person Tents
Zpacks
Known for Dyneema shelters, perfect for ultralight enthusiasts. Plex Solo is their top 1P model.
Big Agnes
Lightweight, freestanding tents with thoughtful features and good quality.
Tarptent
Innovative, made-in-USA options with trail-tested performance and storm protection.
MSR
Popular for their reliability and long-lasting materials. Great for 3-season or alpine treks.
NEMO Equipment
Combines comfort and high-end materials like OSMO fabric.
Six Moon Designs
Offers budget-friendly ultralight designs. Lunar Solo is an all-time favorite.
REI Co-op
Affordable, accessible, and good quality. Flash Air 1 is solid for weekend trips.
Gossamer Gear
Minimalist innovation and lightweight construction. “The One” is legendary.
How to Use & Maintain Your Solo Tent
Tent Footprint or Not?
A footprint can help extend your tent’s life, especially on abrasive surfaces. Some ultralighters skip it to save weight.
Cleaning Your Tent
- Always dry it fully before storage
- Wipe dirt and clean zippers after trips
- Hand wash with non-detergent soap if needed
Long-Term Storage Tips
- Store loosely in a dry bag (not compressed)
- Avoid damp basements or garages
Wind & Rain Setup Tips
- Stake out guylines tight
- Use trekking poles efficiently (for non-freestanding tents)
- Pitch with the lowest side toward the wind
FAQs About Single Person Tents
Can a single person tent fit a dog or gear?
Some 1P tents (like Durston X-Mid 1P or MSR Hubba) have enough room for a dog or a large backpack. Look for extended vestibules.
What is the lightest 1-person tent?
Zpacks Plex Solo (~13.9 oz) and Tarptent Aeon Li (~15.8 oz) are among the lightest full-featured shelters.
Are single person tents good for beginners?
Yes! Options like the Naturehike Cloud-Up or REI Flash Air offer easy setup and comfort at an affordable price.
Do I need a freestanding tent?
Not necessarily. Freestanding tents are easier to set up anywhere. Non-freestanding ones (like Gossamer Gear The One) save weight but require good ground for staking.
Is Dyneema worth the price?
If you’re thru-hiking or want the lightest, strongest shelter—it’s worth it. Otherwise, Silpoly/Silnylon provide great value.
Where to Buy the Best Single Person Tents in the US
Top Online Stores
- REI.com – Excellent return policy & in-house gear
- Garage Grown Gear – Carries cottage brands like Durston & Gossamer Gear
- Zpacks.com – Direct-to-consumer ultralight gear
- Hyperlitemountaingear.com – Premium Dyneema shelters
- Backcountry.com – Wide variety & seasonal discounts
Budget-Friendly Sites
- Amazon – For Naturehike, ALPS Mountaineering, and low-cost alternatives
- Moosejaw – Occasional deals on Big Agnes, MSR
In-Store Buying
- REI Co-op and other specialty outdoor retailers offer fitting and in-person support
Final Verdict – Which Single Person Tent Should You Buy?
Choosing the right solo tent depends on your adventure style, comfort needs, and budget.
- Best Ultralight: Zpacks Plex Solo
- Best Value: Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
- Best for Storms: Tarptent Aeon Li
- Best for Beginners: REI Flash Air 1 / Naturehike Cloud-Up
- Most Comfortable: Durston X-Mid 1P
No matter your goals—lightweight thru-hiking, comfortable camping, or a budget weekend trip—there’s a perfect 1-person tent waiting to become your portable home.
Conclusion
A great single person tent gives you the freedom to roam, explore, and discover the outdoors on your terms. Whether you’re heading deep into the backcountry or just need a quick solo overnight solution, choosing the right shelter enhances comfort, confidence, and connection to the wild.
This guide offered an extensive comparison of the best 1-person tents, a deep dive into features that matter, expert recommendations, and pro tips for care and use.
Ready to hit the trail? Let your single-person tent be the lightest, strongest ally on your solo journey!
Also Read : 10 Best Ultralight Tents for Backpacking 2025