Top 5 Ultralight 1-Person Freestanding Tents of 2023

1-Person Backpacking Tents: Ultralight 1-person backpacking tent in front of water in a scenic mountain valley

In this post, we'll take a look at:

When you’re picking an ultralight 1-person freestanding tent, there are essential things to consider.

These include how heavy the tent is, how easy it is to pack, how strong it is, how much room it has inside, how well it can handle different weather, and how simple it is to set up.

Our TOP 5 guide is made to give you the information you need to choose the best option for you.

Top Ultralight 1-Person Freestanding Tents

  1. Most Ultralight: Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1 (1lb 10.9oz/765g)
  2. Best Overall: Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO 1P (1lb 12.6oz/812g)
  3. Best Value: Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1 (1lb 14.7oz/872g)
  4. Most Durable: Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1 (2lb 15oz/1332g)
  5. Budget Option: 3F UL Gear Floating Cloud 1 (2lb 15.3oz/1343g)

1. Most Ultralight
Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1

Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tents: Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1

Key Specs


Weight: 1lb 10.9 ounces (765g)
Material: 15D nylon ripstop
Price: $$

PROS


✅ Ultralight

✅ Excellent for tall people

CONS


❌ The fly can flap in the wind

The ultralight 1-person freestanding tent from Big Agnes is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Its innovative design, using sturdy materials, offers ample space and protection for three seasons.

While the tent provides easy setup and environmentally-friendly features, we have noted that the fly flapping in the wind can occasionally affect guy lines.

Overall, we highlight the tent’s reliability and suitability for ultralight adventures.


2. Best Overall
Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO 1P

Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tents: Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO 1P

Key Specs


Weight: 1lb 12.6 ounces (812 grams)
Material: poly-nylon composite
Price: $$$

PROS


✅ Great warranty

✅ Next generation materials

CONS


❌ Requires careful handling

The Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO ultralight 1-person freestanding tent is an excellent choice for those who value extreme minimalism. With its innovative updates and eco-friendly OSMO fabric, it offers exceptional water repellency.

The tent’s meticulous design, featuring premium materials like DAC Featherlite poles and thoughtful enhancements, ensures both lightweight performance and convenience.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that due to its ultralight nature, it requires careful handling. Nevertheless, the Hornet Elite OSMO tent stands out as a forward-thinking solution for minimalist adventurers.


3. Best Value
Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1

Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tents: Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 1

Key Specs


Weight: 1lb 14.7 ounces (872 grams)
Material: 15D nylon ripstop
Price: $$

PROS


✅ High quality

✅ Small pack size

CONS


❌ Not the most stable in wind

The Mountain Hardware Nimbus UL 1P Tent is a standout choice for those seeking an ultralight backpacking solution.

With its waterproof sil-nylon rainfly and unique features, this tent becomes an essential addition to any lightweight trail setup.

While it’s most suitable for mild weather trips, a valuable suggestion to improve stability in windy conditions is to add tabs to the rain fly for guying out the tent.

All in all, the Nimbus tent provides a specialized option for individuals searching for a highly lightweight and versatile shelter.


4. Most Durable
Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1

Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tents: Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1

Key Specs


Weight: 2lb 15 ounces (1332 grams)
Material: 15D nylon ripstop
Price: $$

PROS


✅ Durable materials

✅ Good for tall people

CONS


❌ Relatively heavy

The Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1 ultralight 1-person freestanding tent is a timeless choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

As a part of the signature series, it’s designed to withstand both time and the challenges of the backcountry.

While, in our opinion, there’s room for it to be even lighter, it remains a solid choice for everybody.


5. Budget Option
3F UL Gear Floating Cloud 1

Ultralight 1-Person Backpacking Tents: 3F UL Gear Floating Cloud 1

Key Specs


Weight: 2lb 15.3 ounces (1343 grams)
Material: 15D nylon ripstop
Price: $

PROS


✅ Great materials

✅ Relatively affordable

CONS


❌ A bit heavy

❌ Not for tall people

The 3F UL Gear Floating Cloud 1 ultralight 1-person freestanding tent offers a lightweight and user-friendly solution for ultralight adventures.

With its straightforward but robust single pole architecture, the tent is built to endure multi-day trips in different terrains and weather conditions.

Packed with features like a large vestibule, storage space, and efficient ventilation to reduce condensation, this tent is fully equipped.

While it might lean a bit towards the heavier side for a truly ultralight option, and taller individuals over 6 feet could find it a tad short, it’s worth noting that the tent’s overall reliability and practicality remain significant.

How to Buy the Right 1-Person Freestanding Tent

When choosing the right freestanding tent, consider three important factors: seasonality, weight, and livability:

  1. Seasonality matters, with options like 3-season, 3+, and 4-season tents. Most beginners prefer 3-season tents for spring, summer, and fall. Some experienced backpackers may have different tents for versatility.
  2. Weight is crucial; lighter tents can still be spacious and comfy. Heavy-duty materials are durable, while ultralight tents can surprise with sturdiness. Check minimum trail weight, packaged weight, and packed size for portability.
  3. Livability ensures a good tent experience. Modern designs offer more space, increased headroom, and comfort. Features like rainfly color, door design, gear storage vestibules, and ventilation enhance overall livability, providing a cozy retreat during storms or extended stays.

For more on tent materials, explore our detailed post here.

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