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Home » Gear » best bikepacking tents

7 BEST Bikepacking Tents of 2024 | Options For ALL Trips and Budgets!

The allure of bike-packing lies in the seamless blend of freedom, speed, and the raw, unfiltered embrace of nature. It’s an odyssey on two wheels, a journey defined by the path less traveled, the pumping of legs and the tent you choose to carry.

A bike packers tent becomes their home and their place of refuge after a long days riding. As you know, the nature of bikepacking trips can mean having to pitch up miles from civilisation and sleeping out in all conditions. But, like tortoises, bikepackers also need to carry these homes with them wherever they go.

As such, the best bikepacking tent needs to be comfortable, durable, easy to pitch and as light as possible in order to facilitate riding. Well the good news that If you’re looking for the best bikepacking tents right now, this list will answer all your questions. We have tried and tested Solo tents, ultralight tents, two and three man tents – whatever you’re after, we got you covered.

On my list of the top bikepacking tents of 2024, I’ve taken into consideration a bunch of different factors to make sure that only the best of the best has made it onto this list — how easy they are to put up, water resistance, price, durability, and more — all to make it easy to find the right bikepacking tent for your travel needs.

I tried a LOT of Bikepacking tents so rest assures that the ones featured here are the very best.

Quick Answer: These are the Bikepacking Tents of 2024

Best bikepacking tents of 2024, #1 – overall best quality bikepacking tent, #2 – best (solo) ultralight tent for bikepacking, #3 – best (solo) budget bikepacking tent, #4 – best 2 person bikepacking tent, #5 – best 3 person bikepacking tent, #6 – best bikepacking tent for the tropics, #7 – best bikepacking tent for europe, buyer guide – how to choose the best bikepacking tent for you, faq about the best bikepacking tents, final thoughts on the best bikepacking tents.

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#1 Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Ultralight Bikepacking Tent – Overall Best Quality Bikepacking Tent

#2 nemo dragonfly osmo 2p bikepack tent – best (solo) ultralight tent for bikepacking, #3 coleman sundome tent – best (solo) budget bikepacking tent, #4 msr hubba hubba 2-person lightweight backpacking tent – best 2 person bikepacking tent, #5 msr hubba tour 3 – best 3 person bikepacking tent, #6 nemo hornet osmo ultralight backpacking tent – best bikepacking tent for the tropics, #7   lone rider mototent – best bikepacking tent for europe.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack Tent

• Price > $499.95
• > Full coverage rainfly
• > Dry entry vestibule

NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P Bikepack Tent

• Price > $579.95
• > High arching poles
• > Easy set up

Coleman Sundome Tent

• Price > $89.30
• > It has large door
• > Best for mild conditions

MSR Hubba Hubba 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

• Price > $549.95
• > 3 year warranty
• > Three-season backpacking tent

MSR Hubba Hubba 3

• Price > $629.95
• > Plenty of room for three people
• > Massive ceiling pocket & 7 other pockets inside

Nemo Hornet OSMO Ultralight Backpacking Tent

• Price > $429.95
• > Designed to be weathertight and rugged
• > Lifetime warranty

Lone Rider MotoTent

• Price > $599
• > Lightweight
• > 2-year guarantee

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Ultralight Bikepacking Tent

Want a cool bikepacking tent for a European bikepacking adventure ? The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Ultralight Backpacking Tent is definitely one that you should be considering, especially if you’re looking for a lightweight tent.

While 2 and 3 person versions are available, for now we’re going to focus on the one-person Big Agnes Fly Creek as we believe it makes the perfect solo bikepacking tent. Though the Big Agnes Fly Creek looks like a simple tent, there are actually a lot of features to this bikepacking tent that we want to shout about so here goes! The tent poles here create an architecture that provides high volume and increases the interior space. The featherlight pole system creates a floor area of 20 square feet, with a head height of 38 inches. For one of the lighter tents on the market, it offers epic storage space.

The tent fabric materials are designed to hold up in adverse weather conditions, with a full-coverage rainfly that means you should be sheltered from a storm wherever you happen to set up camp – even in the mountains. There’s also a dry entry vestibule space , which does what it sounds like it might do, keeping your tent dry as you come in and out, but also providing space for you to stash your camping gear.

The packed weight of this top bikepacking tent is a very light 2 pounds 1 ounce, with a super light 1 pound 11 ounces once pitched. It’s the lightest tent on our list, and it’s easy to set up, too. An all-around awesome tent that will provide you with all the protection and comfort you need on your Europe adventure. In short, it’s simply one of the best ultralight backpacking tents there is.

Need more info? Have a look at our more in-depth Big Agnes Fly Creek tent review.

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When you’re out on a ride, the last thing you want is to be carrying weight than you absolutely need to and the fact is that tent can really add weight to your load. For this reason we love ultra-lightweight tents for bikepacking trips!

We have tried a lot of differ ultralight tents over the years and consider the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P Bikepack Tent to be amongst the absolute best. It offers a heady combo of lightweight packability along with high comfort levels. This awesome bikepacking tent weighs in at just 2 pounds 1 ounces so you will barely feel it on your bike.

This lightweight model is made from pre-bent DAC featherlight poles making it super easy to pack down to its modest 19.5 x 4 inches. As well as being light, this epic camping tent will fit easily into your frame bag.

Ultralight tents are usually less resilient and durable than other tents as the lighter materials are more sensitive to strains. However, the Nemo Dragonfly is as hard wearing an ultralight tent as there is. This top bikepacking tent is constructed from integrated 20D nylon and 15D nylon ripstop , with waterproof protection and the integrated groundsheet Is also very tough. The canopy is 1200mm waterproof nylon ripstop. The protected strut vents mean humidity can be easily released, too.

It’s actually a very liveable tent ideal for long trips. It’s got high arching poles, for an expansive interior, making it feel quite roomy. You can actually sit up inside the tent (it’s 36″ in height).

There’s also enough room to store your gear and sleeping bag inside, too, as the tent is covered by a large trapezoidal cover – ample room to keep your precious stuff safe, dry and out of the way. It doesn’t block entry to the tent, which is a plus.

The Nemo Dragonfly boasts an easy set-up , which is a godsend. Colour-coded poles make it easy to set up (around 12 minutes) with a rainfly that snaps into place.

Bikepacking tents generally don’t come cheap. However the Coleman Sundome Tent halves (and then halves again, and then maybe again) the price of most bikepacking tents making it the super budget-friendly bike touring tent option.

You may be thinking, ‘Ok, so it’s cheap, that must mean it’s rubbish.’ And while it is does not perform as well as some other tents in this round up, it’s still a decent piece of travel gear.

Best for mild conditions, this offering from Coleman – depending on which size variation you go for (yes, you have options) weighs in at 7.2 lbs at its lightest and is relatively spacious regardless of which size you go for. It comes in two, three, four and six-man versions.

The tent has a large door, which is nice because no one likes getting tangled up as they try to get settled into their sleeping bag for the night. There’s also a rear hooded window and a hooded fly for extra ventilation. The integrated groundsheet is made of 1000D polythene with welded seams to guard against any leaks; the fly and walls of the tent are coated polyester, meaning they’re durable and shouldn’t let any water in. If you do have to weather a storm in this tent, there are external guy points to keep you stable in high winds.

Not only is this budget bikepacking tent great value for money , but it’s also easy to set up – you should be ready to jump in for some well-deserved rest after around 15 minutes, thanks to the pin and ring pole to body connections. You won’t even have to look at the instructions.

Looking for other reasonably priced tents? Check out our guide to the best budget backpacking tents .

Not all biking tours and cycling excursions are done solo, of course. You may want to hit the road with your mate, or your partner, and if you do that, you’ll want a two-person tent that ensures that you’re as comfortable as can be.

So for the best two-person bikepacking tent out there, we would definitely recommend the MSR Hubba Hubba 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent. This three-season backpacking tent is one of the top tents out there whether for bikepacking or straight up camping.

There is plenty of space for you and whoever to sit inside and share a cup of tea or coffee. The MSR Hubba Hubba is cosy and convenient addition . Size-wise it’s 2.13 metres (84″) in length by 1.27 metres (50″) wide, with room to sleep side by side; the peak of the tent is 1 metre (39″) high. Ample crouching room.

When it comes to rolling up the tent and slinging it on the bike, the dimensions of this awesome bikepacking tent all packed up is 18 x 6 inches – its weight of 3 pounds 14 ounces. You can leave the flysheet or the bottom half of the tent at home for even lighter weight.

The freestanding design of the Hubba Hubba is interesting. This means you get a whole 29 square feet of floor area with no tapering sides stealing away your precious space. There are also two doors on the tent (one for each of you, right?) and an additional 8.75 square feet on either side for storing your all-important gear away from the elements.

On top of all that goodness, the set-up is straightforward (under 5 minutes!) and there’s a three-year warranty , even though this super lightweight tent will no doubt last you for years. You’ll be thankful you got this one!

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Maybe a two-person tent isn’t enough for you. If you love extra space when bikepacking, or you’re travelling in a group of three, this tent is the one for you!

The MSR Hubba Hubba 3 Backpacking Tent really is our top choice for the best 3 person bikepacking tent you’re likely to find at the moment. It’s awesome. Made by the good people at MRS, this tent has been specifically designed for three people in mind – it’s not just a larger version of a two-man tent.

Made for high volume to increase living space without adding weight, the dimensions of this baby are 70 inches by 90 inches, with a floor area that covers 43 square feet –  lots of room for everyone in your group to have a good night’s sleep.

This bikepacking tent has one thing we like a lot: steep walls that create a decent amount of living space. Not only that but there’s also room for your gear storage with dual vestibules for keeping your gear nice and dry. There’s also a massive ceiling pocket and seven other pockets inside . We love pockets.

In terms of weight, adding room for one more doesn’t add much to the weight of this tent: it’s a mere 3lbs 7oz. Packed, that’s 6.4lbs with a size of 7″ x 17″. As a fun bonus, it comes in two colourways : a punchy orange and grey combo, and a more muted olive green. Yay.

If you’re thinking of a bikepacking tour around Vietnam or Thailand then you’ll want something suited to the hot and humid climate of the region. Less is more when it comes to camping somewhere like this, so the Nemo Hornet Ultralight Backpacking Tent is a bloody good option.

Packing down to a very light (and pretty small) 2 pounds, 19.5 (50cm) inches by 4.5 inches (12cm), it really won’t add much to your kit weight.

This top bikepacking tent for the tropics comes in both one and two-person sizes although we’re focusing on the one-man version for now. It’s got a single vestibule with enough space to keep your precious belongings safe from the elements, be it a downpour or the blazing sun.

Designed to be weathertight and rugged , the Nemo Hornet has a 10D nylon ripstop fly , which makes it durable, water repellent and very light; the canopy, constructed of 10D nylon ripstop as well, has no-see-um mesh to keep those pesky bugs out, but to allow a breeze in (privacy, too). It’s super quick to set up. You won’t have to fiddle around with confusing details and will be lounging inside your tent within minutes.

There are a few nice little added features that we want to talk about – the kinds of things that make your life a little more easy on the road. We like the Diffusing Light Pocket s – slot a torch in here and it becomes a lantern for the tent. There are also guys and struts that pull out the corners, so you and your stuff don’t get covered in condensation. Add to that a lifetime warranty for defects and you have yourself a winner.

Want some more info? Check out our dedicated and more in-depth review of the Nemo Hornet tent .

The overall best quality bikepacking tent out there at the moment has to be the Lone Rider MotoTent , for a lot of reasons. Made by bikers, for bikers, the Lone Rider MotoTent is cool because there’s a dedicated space to park your ride inside the tent itself. This means it’s not only kept away from prying eyes, but also from the elements, meaning rain, snow or the sun won’t affect your bike in any way.

There’s enough space for two riders and their gear inside (the porch is 2 metres high – 6’7″ – so you can stand up inside it), with room for panniers as well. The length is 4.15 metres. We love that you can stretch out and keep your stuff dry in this tent!

Though built specifically as a motorcycle tent , it’s definitely possible to use this is if you’re a cyclist, too. Bicycles can be expensive too!

It’s well-built , with a high-quality groundsheet that will keep you dry, and a pretty amazing 7-minute set-up time thanks to colour coded, easy-use pole sleeves amongst other things. It’s also pretty lightweight, weighing in at 5.54kg (12lb), with a bold claim that it’s the lightest tent (with a motorcycle canopy) around.

The lightweight structure doesn’t take away from its durability : it’s got a strong tunnel design that’s constructed of high-quality material, with fly fabric that’s ultralight and UV-resistant with waterproof coating. Even the poles and pegs are made from aircraft-grade aluminium . It’s definitely reliable.

When you want to hit the road again and start the next leg of your adventure, the Lone Rider MotoTent rolls up to a very portable 60 (24″) x 20 (8″) centimetres, so it’ll easily fit on your bike. Last but not least is the 2-year guarantee, which means if your tent should become faulty, Lone Rider will replace it free of charge. Can’t argue with that!

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Those were the seven best bikepacking tents going right now, the best you’re likely to find anywhere. But though our handy list puts all these heavy hitters in once place to make it easy for you to make a decision, it’s not always easy to pick the right tent for you. There are a lot of factors to think about.

Don’t worry: as usual, we’re here to help. We’ve put together a handy guide of things to consider when you’re thinking about purchasing a brand new bikepacking tent.

1. Packability

If you’re heading out on the road, not only are you going to be looking for a tent that will keep you dry and safe once it’s set up but one that you will be able to pack away tightly and securely.

There’s no use getting a tent that you can’t pack up and put away onto your bike easily; it will become a hindrance to your trip and that is not what you want at all.

Choose a bikepacking tent that suits how you pack. Do you have a big bag, and don’t mind a bit of extra weight? Then you can afford to go for something larger. If you’re all about keeping extra weight, and space, to a minimum, then something that’s ultralight will be what suits your bikepacking adventure.

Remember, you will want to consider the practicalities of traveling on a bike in each location including having to attach it to buses or ship overland or air, so having a smaller tent can keep costs down in this regard too.

Though tents aren’t exactly well known for being easy to set up, it doesn’t have to be this way! There are a lot of good bikepacking tents out there that are surprisingly easy to set up, making the process of arriving at your destination for the night a relative breeze.

You need to consider what sort of weather you’re be riding in, and what lighting conditions you need to be able to set up a tent quickly. Too many steps and fiddly poles and you’ll just end up frustrated at the end of a long day.

If you’re all about doing speed and getting things done quickly, then you are going to want to focus on looking for a good bikepacking tent that boasts a quick set-up time. Tip : It’s also a good idea to set up your tent in your backyard (maybe a few times) before you set off on your travels, just so you know how it works.

The weight of every piece you pack on a bikepacking trip is important, and as one of the bulkier items you’ll be carrying with you, a tent is certainly no exception.

For that reason, ultralight tents are almost always a good call – especially if you’re also riding a lightweight bike.

However, if you’re only setting out for a few days, or if you’re a relative newcomer to the world of bikepacking, you may not have a need for getting the most super ultra featherlight tent out there, which can run more expensive.

4. Durability

You’re not going to want to fork out hundreds (and hundreds) of dollars for a tent that isn’t worth it’s salt. If you are going to be heading out on adventures a lot with your new bikepacking tent, then you are going to want to choose something that will last.

Value for money is a good idea, that’s for sure, but if you’re racing in more rugged conditions, you might want to splash some extra cash.

If there is a lot of rain and wind in your future, and maybe even rugged terrain, then you should really consider getting something that ticks all the boxes when it comes to weatherproof, durable materials.

If not, you might be ok with a more ‘basic’ tent.

Another thing to consider is the warrantees that a lot of bikepacking tents offer. Two and three years is good, but if you think you’re going to be in the bikepacking game for the long haul, then you may want to consider something that comes with a lifetime guarantee.

It’s an obvious one, but basically, you have to think about two things: the size the tent packs down to (packability) and the size of the actual tent once it’s pitched.

Since we’ve already covered how packability can affect how you choose the best bikepacking tent for you, we’ll focus on the actual size of the tent after it’s been set up.

First of all, you’ll want to think about whether you can stand a one-person tent, or if you want a two-person tent for more room (or if you’re going to be travelling as a couple) – or maybe even a three or four-person might be a good idea for you. It all depends on how many people you’re travelling with – and how much you want to spread out.

If you’ve got a lot of stuff, you’ll either want a big tent, or you’ll want something with a lot of storage space.

Lastly, do you want something with room to stand or are you ok with just sitting? Bear in mind that some bikepacking tents can really be mini. Make sure you check the dimensions thoroughly, as tall people probably won’t enjoy smaller tents!

Still, have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

How heavy should a bikepacking tent be?

Ideally, a bikepacking tent should be light so that you could carry it yourself with ease. Luckily, most tents are ultralight nowadays and you can expect a 2-4 pound weight, depending on the size.

How do I choose a bikepacking tent?

Keep these things in mind: 1. Packability and set Up 2. Your budget 3. Size and durability 4. Weight and material

What is the best 1 person bikepacking tent?

We think the NEMO Dragonfly OSMO 2P Bikepack Tent is ideal for solo bikers.

What is the best bikepacking tent on a budget?

A great budget bikepacking tent is the Coleman Sundome Tent . It’s super affordable, yet offers quite a bit of bang for your buck.

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You already know there are so many reasons to go bikepacking . Whatever sort of cycling or motorbike adventure you’re thinking of heading off on, it pays to invest in a bikepacking tent to make sure that your time on the road goes as smoothly as possible. A good tent will definitely be the difference between comfort and annoyance.

We are certain that, whoever you are and however you prefer to travel on your adventures, you will be able to hone in on something on our list of the best bikepacking tents.

There’s a lot to choose from, but we would say that our top choice for the definitive, overall best quality bikepacking tent has to be the Lone Rider MotoTent . That space to store your bike is simply genius.

That said if you don’t care all that much about having a little porch for your bike – and especially if you’re on a budget – a good beginner’s option would be the Coleman Sundome Tent. At that price, this highly reviewed tent is just an amazing purchase.

Let us know in the comments below which bikepacking tent you go for – and tell us if you’ve got a favourite that isn’t on this list!

Hey, carrying a lot of weight on your bike can really make the trip that much more hard work, check the best electric bikes out there if you want to lighten the load on your legs!

You’ll also need a good quality bikepacking bag for your adventure too!

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• camping gear

13 TOP Tents – Which is the best tent for a bike trip and for bikepacking?

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What is the best tent for a bike trip and for bikepacking? There is currently a seemingly endless selection of tents on the market. That can be quite confusing! So there are now: Ultralight tents, freestanding tents, tents for 3 or 4 seasons and with or without awning. There are also single and double-walled tents. Some also come with footprints, some without, and certain ultralight tents also come without poles.

In this article you will find a detailed and understandable tent guide. In it you will probably learn everything there is to know about tents. I have written down the knowledge for you in a simple and understandable way.

You will also find an overview of recommended tents from the following categories:

✅ Bikepacking tent : Tents for minimalist bike travel. Here the focus is on low weight and a compact pack size ✅ Tent for bike trip and tent for bike tour : Are tents for (mostly) one or two people and are suitable for short or extended bike tours. The tents are robust, durable and offer comfortable space inside for people and equipment.

With the important topic of price, there are big differences: Premium tents like to cost several hundred euros. Fortunately, there are also very inexpensive TOP tents. For each tent category, I therefore show recommended price tips including their pros and cons. Plus, of course, we take a look at the most popular bikepacking tents and the absolute TOP tents in the tent for bike touring section.

You’re in a hurry? Tent recommendation: MSR Hubba NX

You’re in a hurry? The MSR Hubba NX has proven itself to many bike travelers over the years. It also meets all the above requirements. So my recommendation for the best bikepacking tent and tent for bike touring is the MSR Hubba NX in the green color.

• VienvietÄ— palapinÄ— MSR Hubba NX - Žalia

* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-07-09, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon

The MSR Hubba NX tent is available in different sizes:

• As a 1-person tent - tent for bikepackers (MSR Hubba NX)*.
• As a 2-person tent - tent for solo bike travelers (MSR Hubba Hubba NX)*.
• As a 3-person tent - Tent for bike travel as a couple (MSR Mutha Hubba NX)*.

I have owned the 1-person MSR Hubba NX myself for 3 years now and am absolutely satisfied with it. It offers the best overall package of small pack size, reliability and robustness and space inside: Even with my 1-person tent I have my 1.84 height enough space to lie stretched out and sit upright. I can still stow some luggage in the tent and the tent has a small vestibule in which two small bike bags and my shoes fit easily. It is also quick and easy to assemble and disassemble.

Some time ago I already created a detailed video test of the MSR Hubba NX:

I bought the tent in 2017 for the Tuscany Trail in Italy. A year later I had it with me on a bike trip from Stuttgart to Istanbul and it still looks like new.

The MSR Hubba NX still convinces me today and it is my current favourite tent. The 1 person version is ideal for me as a minimalist bike traveler or for bikepacking trips. You need more comfort? then the 2-person variant or the 3-person variant is better suited for you.

So the MSR Hubba NX has been convincing me in practice for years. The technical peculiarities are also convincing:

✅ Light weight : Weighs just 1330 grams ✅ small pack size : Ideal as a bikepacking tent. The 2- or 3-person version is suitable as a tent for bike trips ✅ Freestanding tent : So that fast and convenient to set up.

…and much more. I present the MSR Hubba NX in detail in the detailed MSR Hubba NX practical test (test & experiences) .

MSR Hubba NX bei Amazon kaufen*

Now we continue with the ultimate tent selection >>

Determine the requirements for your tent

First, please answer the following question: What kind of bike trip or bikepacking adventure are you taking?

• Do you only need your tent for a few weeks a year for a summer adventure? Or do you want a super reliable tent for a cycling trip around the world?
• Are you travelling as a couple and need a lot of space or are you alone and like to travel minimalistically?
• Do you like to stay at campsites or do you prefer wild camping?
• Are you out in good weather in the summer? Or can it rain sometimes or do you even camp in winter?

So what are your requirements? It is now time to answer these questions.

Have you given it any thought? Super! It will then be much easier for you to find the right tent for you. Read on now

In the last few years, however, I have been watching the market trends at all times. In addition, I was and am on many continents of this world with bike and tent on the road. The following tips ha proven themselves:

• Best tent for bike trip and best tent for bike tour for one person: Free standing, double walled, 2 person tent for 3 seasons, weighs between 1.5 and 2.5 kilos and has an inconspicuous color such as green. Such a tent fits centrally on the luggage rack of a touring bike. The space inside is comfortable: there is enough room for the cyclist and most of the luggage.
• For a couple so two people: A 3-person tent with the same requirements as above.
• best bikepacking tent: For a solo bikepacker, the 1-person variety or alternatively a tarp or bivy sack is suitable.

13 TOP tents for bikepacking and bike trips

So I’ve been doing a lot of research. Also, the list is based on my years of experience with different tents. In the process I found 10 tents that are very interesting. Also, I always keep the list up to date. The tents are suitable for bikepacking and also for normal bike trips and for a bike tour.

We start with cheap and simple tents. These are especially suitable for shorter trips and for bike tours in good weather. Then we work our way slowly. To tents that can withstand cycling trips across continents and are even suitable for a cycling world tour. These tents are therefore also suitable for cycling trips lasting several months or years. The list also includes recommended bikepacking tents. These are particularly light and have a small pack size. This means that they can be stowed directly in the frame bag or in the handlebar roller.

For all recommended tents I have also linked you directly to an online shop. This means you can order tents online immediately and have them conveniently delivered to your home.

You miss a tent or have an insider tip? Then feel free to drop me a comment.

Tent for bike trip and tent for bike tour – the TOP 5

The tents in this selection offer a particularly good mix of weight, space and price. These tents are also about weight. However, particular emphasis is placed on the space available. In this category good tents are already very inexpensive to have. So there is also money left over for the trip 😉 with these features, the tents are suitable for many travelers and are the ideal choice as a tent for a bike trip and bike tour.

Tent for bike trip – Overview

* Werbung - Aktualisierung am 2024-07-10, Preis kann gestiegen sein, Als Amazon-Partner verdiene ich an qualifizierten Verkäufen, Bild:Amazon

MSR Elixir 2

Weight: 2.77kg Pack size: 51 x 17 cm Water column (outer tent, floor): 1,500mm, 3000mm Features: since 2018 with more space

The Elixir is one of MSR’s newest tents. The space is intended for 2 people. MSR officially promotes the Elixir 2 as a backpacking tent. This results in a great advantage: the tent has particularly large vestibules on both sides. They’re actually for backpacks. Large bike bags and equipment fit of course just as well underneath 😉 the weight is 2.7 kilos. As a tent for a normal bike tour, the weight is therefore perfectly fine and the equipment is just right for a tour for two.

The price of the MSR Elixir 2 is particularly interesting for a high-quality brand tent: the tent costs just over 200€ at well-known online retailers.

MSR Hubba Hubba NX

Weight: 1.72 kg Pack size: 46 x 15 cm Water column (outer tent, floor): 1200, 3000mm Features:

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is one of the most popular tents for bike travel and is also great for a bike tour. There are also many bicycle travellers who tour the world with a tent. The tent has also been my favorite bikepacking tent for a few years now. Here you can find my extensive MSR Hubba NX field test . The popularity of the MSR Hubba NX has several reasons:

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is lightweight yet very durable. MSR has continued to develop and improve the tent over the years. There are also two colors: white and green. In order to remain undetected when wild camping, I bought the green version myself.

In the MSR Hubba series there are different tents for different requirements:

• The Hubba NX is the ideal bikepacking tent – because it weighs only 1.12 kg.
• The Hubba Hubba NX offers plenty of space for a solo bike traveller: With 2 vestibules, there is also plenty of space in front of the tent for gear
• For a couple on a bike tour, the Mutha Hubba NX is the ideal tent for the bike tour: it also weighs only 2.3 kg

Change Pathfinder TL

Weight: 2.3kg Pack size: 45 x 15 cm Water column (fly, groundsheet): 5000mm, 7000mm Features: suitable for tall people

The Wechsel Pathfinder is a 1-person tent with extra space. The Pathfinder weighs only 2.3 kg – that’s light for the “tent for bike touring” category. So what does the tent offer? With a length of 2.35 in the inner tent, the Wechsel Pathfinder is especially suitable for tall people. The water column is 5000mm for the outer tent and 7000mm for the tent floor. The height of 75cm is rather low, but with a maximum width of 94cm the tent offers a lot of space for equipment inside. The tent is also free-standing: a great gain in comfort that also saves time during pitching and dismantling.

The price of the Wechsel Pathfinder is unbeatable and therefore the tent is the price tip in this category.

Salewa Denali II

Weight: 2.63kg Pack size: 47 x 20cm Water column (fly, groundsheet): 3000mm, 5000mm Features: Self Standing, Classic

Salewa is a traditional tent builder and brings a lot of experience to the table. The company is known for very good tents. On the one hand, the Salewa tents offer high quality – but are also somewhat heavier.

The Salewa Denali II is nevertheless an attractive tent: it is free-standing, weighs 2.63 kg and is very attractively priced. Thus, the Salewa Denali II is definitely an interesting tent. Especially if you are looking for a reliable tent for a longer bike trip.

The technical data is convincing: The space inside is ample and very comfortable, especially for one person. The length of the lying surface is 2.10 meters. At 1.10 metres in width, there is plenty of room to lie down and carry extra equipment. The seat height is a comfortable 1.05 metres. So you can stay in the tent even longer in bad weather.

I don’t think the yellow colour is ideal: it only attracts unnecessary attention when wild camping.

Nordisk Finnmark 2 SE

Weight: 3.0kg Pack size: 15 x 50 cm Water column: 3000mm, 10000mm Features:

With the Nordisk you really get a lot of tent for the money: It is a 2-person tent and offers 1.15 metres seat height, 1.50 metres width and 2.30 metres length for the lying area. The ideal tent if you are going on a bike tour as a couple and want a bit more space.

The weight of 3 kg is a good value for a tent with such ample space. As I said, a great tent for those who want a little more space.

Bikepacking tent – the TOP 8

These are the most interesting bikepacking tents. No bikepacking tent on this list weighs more than 1.23 kilos and the lightest comes in at a featherweight 798 grams. Exceptions are the price tips. Here the weight is a little higher. It is often astonishing how resistant the tents are despite their lightweight construction.

A good entry-level bikepacking tent is also available for really cheap. For several hundred euros you get tents from the top class. Many of these tents are designed specifically for bikepackers or have a good reputation in the bikepacking community.

Some of the tents recommended in the list above (tent for bike trip and tent for bike tour) I mention here again. These are then mostly weight-reduced versions of the upper tents or it is simply the 1-person tent instead of the 2- or 3-person version.

Overview – Bikepacking Tent

MSR Hubba NX

Weight: 1.12 kg Pack size: 46 x 15 cm Water column: 1200, 3000mm Features: 3 seasons

The Hubba NX is MSR’s best-selling 1-person tent. This tent has been my absolute favorite for several years and I’ll tell you why right now. Before that, a quick note: The Hubba NX is also available as a 2-person tent and is then called Hubba Hubba NX. In any case, I am not the only one who is convinced of the tent: Many cyclists have already made world tours with these tents.

The tent is a 3-season tent and weighs just 1,120 grams complete with all the trimmings. Say: The tent, all the poles and the pegs. A Footprint thus a ground protection tarpaulin I recommend to buy in any case still in addition. However, this only comes to a few grams.

The tent is free-standing and can therefore be erected without tensioning. It is still stable in up to medium-strong winds. If the wind then becomes very strong, the tent should be braced. The ventilation is excellent and also the weather resistance I can confirm: Even in heavy rain, water never came through the tent wall or even the tent floor.

The seat height is 90 centimetres and the reclining width is 76 centimetres. To illustrate: With my 1.84 meters I lie quite relaxed and stretched out in the tent and still have room and a small backpack to accommodate. The rest of the luggage then goes under the vestibule. Check out my extensive MSR Hubba NX field test for even more details on this top bikepacking tent.

The tent was simply very well thought out by MSR: The MSR Hubba NX is a really good tent with many strengths and no real weaknesses.

The MSR Hubba NX is definitely worth the price.

To the detailed MSR Hubba NX field test (test & experiences)

MSR Carbon Reflex

Weight: 798 grams Pack size: 43 x 13 cm Water column: 1200, 1200mm Features: 1 person, 1 entrance & vestibule, UL 7D fabric.

At just 798 grams, the MSR Carbon Reflex 2 is significantly lighter than the Hubba NX. It’s also MSR’s lightest, double-walled tent. To achieve the weight, MSR has used quite thin material: 7D fine material is used for the outer tent. The floor is made of 15D Ripstop Nylon, a slightly stronger material. although the outer tent as well as the floor have a water column of 1200.

There is no zipper at the entrance. A velcro fastener and two hooks are used. Very weight-optimized. The head height of 81 cm is low, as expected. Experience shows that the carbon frame is one of the weak points of the tent.

Naturehike New Cloud Upgrade

Weight: 1,550 grams Pack size: 45 cm x 12 cm Water column: 3000, 3000mm Features: 1 person, 1 entrance & Apside

Probably the most popular replica of the MSR Hubba NX is the “Naturehike New Cloud-Up” or also “Naturehike Cloud-Up upgraded”. The Chinese company has done a really good job here:

For just over 100€ you get a reliable tent with very similar features: The weight is with 1,550 grams about 250 grams heavier than the MSR tent. Otherwise, the workmanship of the zippers is not quite up to the original.

Of course, the Cloud-Up is also freestanding, but you have to unhitch it a little earlier than the MSR Hubba NX. Very pleasing: The high water column of 4000mm for the tent floor and the outer tent. In addition, the scope of delivery also includes a footprint. The buyers on Amazon seem to be very satisfied with the tent. I have also seen the tent live once at friends and could convince myself of the quality. Definitely a price-performance tip.

Naturehike Neues Cloud-Up Upgraded auf Amazon kaufen*

Decathlon Forclaz Trek 900 Ultralight

Weight: 798 grams Pack size: 40 x 12 cm Water column: 4000, 5000mm Features: 1 person, 1 entrance & vestibule, UL 7D fabric.

The Decathlon Trek 900 is another price tip in the bikepacking tent category. The Trek 900 can be bought online at Decathlon for about 120€.

For the price, the Decathlon Trek 900 offers a surprising amount of advantages and has hardly any weaknesses. In principle, it is largely a replica of the excellent MSR Hubba NX.

With a weight of about 1,600 grams, the tent is about 200 grams heavier than the MSR Hubba NX, which is more than twice as expensive. The packing dimensions are 40x12x12 and are absolutely fine.

For a lightest bikepaking tent for one person, you can also be comfortable inside: 95 cm high. Inside you have 60 centimetres of space on the head side and 50 centimetres on the foot side. As usual with a lightweight tent, the sides are not exactly spacious. You should still be able to fit some gear in the tent. If the space requirement is larger then the tent also has a vestibule.

Fortunately, a footprint and a repair kit are included in the delivery.

To the detailed Forclaz Trek 900 Ultralight practical test (test & experiences)

Vango F10 Helium UL 1

Weight: 1.23 kg Pack size: 43cm x 9cm Water column: 3000mm outer tent, 6000mm floor Features: 1 person, 1 entrance & vestibule, UL 7D fabric.

The Vango F10 Helium has almost all the features you could want in a bikepacking tent. The price remains pleasantly low. Good reasons, therefore, to take a close look at the tent:

The Vango F10 Helium offers extra head and legroom. The outer tent is made of 15D nylon. The base plate is made of particularly robust 70D nylon. This also results in a high water column of 6000mm for both the outer tent and the tent floor – in addition, all seams are factory-taped and therefore waterproof. A footprint is not included, but can be purchased as an accessory.

The interior dimensions promise great space for a 1-person tent. There is space for equipment on both sides: on one side, a triangular area has been added to the inner tent for storage space. There is an apse on the other side.

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1

Weight: 0.98 kg Pack size: 48 x 10cm Water column: 1200, 1200mm Features: super light, 3 seasons.

Big Agnes is especially popular with bikepackers and backpackers in the USA. The most popular models are now also available from us. Anyway, there is a whole range of interesting tents from Big Agnes. These combine light weight with a pleasantly large amount of space. Ideal bikepacking tent therefore.

To be sure, the Fly Creek is not completely freestanding. On the other hand, it is particularly light with a total weight of 980 grams. We are dealing with a 1 person and 3 season tent here. The price of about 330 euros is also very fair for what is offered.

There are also 2- and 3-person models of the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV. The 3-person model is still pleasantly light at 1.5 kilos. It is therefore particularly suitable for cyclists with a large space requirement, who nevertheless attach importance to a lightweight tent.

By the way, the addition HV in the product name indicates the revised version of the Big Agnes Fly Creek. In the new HV model, the tent walls have been pulled up more steeply. This makes better use of the indoor space.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1

Weight: 1.13 kg Pack size: 42 x 10cm Water column: 1200mm, 1200mm Features: very light, 3 seasons.

Another Big Agnes tent in the bikepacking tent category. Compared to the Fly Creek, the Copper Spur is completely freestanding. With a total weight of 1.5 kilos, the tent is still pleasantly light.

As is often the case with freestanding tents: With the Copper Spur, the inner tent can be pitched independently of the outer tent. This optimises ventilation and the view on hot summer nights. Or the outer tent is used as a tarp without the inner tent to save a few more grams. Can also be used for

There is also a 2-person and a 3-person model of the Copper Spur. The weight is then still absolutely within the framework and the space is of course comfortably large.

The same applies to the Copper Spur: the HV suffix in the name identifies the revised version of the bikepacking tent. The tent walls rise more steeply, which increases the space available in the interior.

Nordisk Telemark 2 ULW

Weight: 0.88 kg Pack size: 41 x 12 cm Water column: 2000mm, 2000mm Features: received multiple awards & Design Award

The Nordisk Telemark 2 ULW has received several awards for its special design. It’s also incredibly lightweight at just 880 grams. For a double-walled tent, that’s a house number. Officially, the Nordisk Telemark 2 ULW is a 2-person tent. However, I recommend using it for only one person.

Then you can also be pleased about the large amount of space: Luxurious 1 metre seat height and 1.02 lying width are offered. Thus also still another some equipment in the tent comes under.

At around 600 euros, the bikepacking tent is not exactly cheap. If you’re looking for a tent that’s both high-quality and lightweight, you should definitely check out the Nordisk Telemark 2 ULW.

Ultralight tent – The TOP 5

Overview – ultralight tent, guide – tent for bike travel and bikepacking tent.

So by now you know what you need your tent for and I have introduced you to the most suitable tents currently available. In this guide, we delve deeper into the topic of bikepacking tents and tents for bike touring.

Important questions before buying a tent

Some important aspects should be considered before buying a bikepacking tent and a tent for bike travel. Let’s get the main points straight. I also give my own practical experience on each point.

Single and double-walled – the type of construction

A single-wall tent, as the name implies, consists of one wall. In such a tent you are less well protected from the weather, insects and dirt. You can also come into direct contact with condensation on the tent wall.

A double-walled tent offers many advantages in comparison: The outer tent provides weather protection and ventilation. The inner tent offers protection from insects, the weather and dirt. In addition, one is much better protected from condensation inside.

In comparison, a double-walled tent therefore offers many advantages. In return, it is about 200 grams heavier. You also lose about 5 inches to each side through the inner tent. In summary, a multi-wall tent offers many clear advantages. Most travelers can certainly get over the slightly higher weight. For most cyclists, therefore, a double-walled tent is probably the best choice. Only if every gram is important, a single wall tent could be an alternative.

With many tents, the inner tent and outer tent can be pitched and packed separately. This opens up many possibilities:

• Building the outer tent without inner tent: Opportunities especially in dry areas without insects. You save weight and have more space.
• Pitching the inner tent without the outer tent: Recommended in Hot regions, indoors, under canopies or even indoors. The inner tent serves as mosquito protection. In addition, one has a better ventilation which can be especially pleasant in hot areas. The view of the starry sky is also free.
• In the event of rain, pack and transport the wet outer tent separately from the dry inner tent.

Type of guy: freestanding or guyed?

Some tents are free-standing, i.e. you do not have to tie them down with a peg. They stand by the tension of the tent poles alone. For even more stability, these tents can be additionally braced with tent cords and pegs. Dome tents and geo tents are representatives of the freestanding category.

Note should be taken: On stony ground or if the ground is too soft or too hard, then no herring holds. Nor indoors. In such a case, a free-standing tent is worth its weight in gold. In addition, you don’t have to unpeg the tent, saving you time and effort.

Free-standing tents are also usually quicker to erect than non-free-standing tents. Especially in rainy weather and at the end of an exhausting day an uncomplicated tent has advantages.

Free-standing tents are usually about 200 grams heavier than non-free-standing tents.

The ideal tent should weigh as little as possible. When you carry less weight on your bike, you move faster and easier – and riding is more fun. At the latest when you have to push or carry the bike, you know what I mean.

Modern tents can be incredibly light. So the best tent for a bike trip should be as light as possible. This is especially true for bikepackers.

The ideal tent for bike trips should have the smallest possible pack size. Then it takes up less space in the bike bags. The sticking point when it comes to tent packing dimensions are often the tent poles: These are the longest items. Unfortunately, especially free-standing tents often have somewhat longer tent poles. This is usually not a problem on a bike trip: The tent poles are then simply fastened securely in the middle of the luggage rack.

Thanks to its small pack size, the ideal bikepacking tent fits in the handlebar roll or in the frame bag. Some manufacturers now sell special bikepacking versions of their tried-and-tested tents: these feature particularly short tent poles, making them ideal for stowing in the handlebar pulley or frame bag.

The longer your bike trip, the more important the durability of a tent. But also in general you want to have a long time pleasure with your purchase. Modern lightweight tents have a limited lifespan. So on a really long bike ride, strictly speaking, you could talk about a consumable. I’m sure many long-term travellers had a number of tents in use at once on their trip. There is a whole series of common sources of faults: zips no longer work, the underbody is less and less waterproof or the tent poles break after a certain time. UV rays also damage the outer tent over time.

Can your bikepacking tent withstand stormy weather? Stormy weather is the exception rather than the norm. However, if the cycling trip lasts for a long time, it can sometimes come to a thunderstorm or squalls. Some regions are also known for particularly unpredictable and harsh weather – for example Iceland.

So the ideal tent should be able to withstand a storm. Even if houses, animals or even cars are blown away in the surrounding area 😉

Two factors significantly influence the stability of a tent: the type of tent and often also the weight.

• Influence of tent design on stability: Geodesic and tunnel tents are particularly stable in windy weather. Always provided they are correctly braced. The direction in which the tent is pitched also plays a role: the tent should be pitched in such a way as to give the wind as little of an attack surface as possible. Ridge tents, which are wedge-shaped tents, are most susceptible to strong gusts of wind. Nowadays, however, tents of this design have largely been superseded by other designs. More about this also further down in this article
• Influence of the tent weight on the stability: Basically, a very light or even a UL tent (Ultralight tent) is often not as storm-proof as a slightly heavier one. As described above, some tents do not need to be braced. These are then so-called free-standing tents. The additional support provided by the pegs in the ground and the guy ropes naturally increases the weather and wind resistance.

In the event of a storm, it is then also worthwhile to unhitch this tent.

Interior space

In the ideal tent there is enough space for more than just a sleeping mat. In the ideal tent, people sleep, unpack and repack travel gear, work, play, change clothes and invite guests.

A tent for a bike trip usually provides space for the sleeping pad and the bike bags.

In a bikepacking tent there is usually room for a small backpack or saddle bag in addition to the sleeping pad. In a very minimalist Ultralight tent there is usually only room for the sleeping pad.

Vestibule – space outside

The best tent for bike touring and bikepacking also has room to keep gear safe and dry. The bike has to stay outside most of the time for space reasons. But even quite small tents usually have a vestibule, i.e. an awning. Larger tents sometimes even have two of them. Additional equipment such as panniers can be stored there. The vestibule is also an ideal place to put your shoes or cook.

With many modern tents, the size of the vestibule can be changed by bracing it accordingly. If the vestibule is correctly tensioned, the equipment will usually only get a few splashes, even in moderately heavy rain.

Color and visibility

The tent color is not only a matter of personal taste. If you would like to go wild camping, for example, then you should remain undetected. An inconspicuous tent color helps a lot. A tent that adapts to its surroundings, almost like a chameleon, is therefore ideally suited.

For the following cases, different colors have proven to be useful:

• Dark green, dark brown and neutral colors: The tent is particularly inconspicuous in nature and you will not be seen immediately.
• Red, light brown, bright orange colors and yellow: The tent is more suitable for the high mountains. Here the tent can be discovered quickly. In dangerous situations such as avalanches or for orientation, this feature can save lives. In desert regions these colors are very inconspicuous.

The choice of colour therefore depends entirely on the environment in which you intend to use the tent most of the time.

Weather resistance

A good tent keeps you dry inside and stays tight even in the rain. The best tents will do that even in monsoon-like rain or if they get washed out. Could you get into a weather situation like this? You should think about this before your bike trip.

The following measures can increase the weather resistance of a tent:

• Footprint: A footprint is available as an accessory for most tents. Sometimes this ground cover is already included in the delivery. The Footprint increases the water resistance of the tent floor and protects it from wear and tear. For some tents there are special large groundsheets. In addition to the tent floor, these also protect the space in the awning so that the equipment in the awning also stays dry.
• Adaptable outer tent: With flexible tents, the outer tent can be pulled down low. Also, the outer tent should generally reach all the way down at the corners. This will keep rain splashes out safely. The side walls can then be left up in good weather and allow pleasant air circulation.

Ventilation

Comfortable ventilation is one of the most important aspects when buying a tent for bike touring and for a bikepacking tent. In the worst case, a large amount of condensation can collect on the tent wall. So much that water drips down and literally makes you wet! Tents with poor ventilation also heat up quickly, even in the early morning.

The following points ensure particularly good ventilation in the tent:

• Double-walled tent: Due to sweating and breathing, condensation forms on the outer tent. With a single-wall tent, you can easily touch the tent wall. In addition, the condensation water can also drip downwards. An inner tent prevents condensation from touching the tent and sometimes keeps water from dripping down.
• Adjustable outer tent: The ventilation of the outer tent should be adjustable. Basically, raised exterior walls provide better ventilation. In the event of bad weather, the outer tent can then be pulled lower for rain protection.
• High mesh content in the inner tent: Large areas of sewn fly netting promote ventilation in the inner tent. In hot weather, only the inner tent can be pitched (without the outer tent). Then a pleasant breeze can blow through the tent. You can also marvel at the starry sky at night.

Privacy in the tent

After a long day on the bike, you’ll probably want to retire for a while. In the ideal tent you should therefore feel safe and secure. Especially in hot weather, the following point can be important: For ideal ventilation, you can only pitch the inner tent without the outer tent. Then you can be pampered by a warm breeze. Not everyone should look directly into your tent? Then an inner tent with a combination of mesh and solid tent makes sense. An inner tent completely made of mesh is very easy to see from the outside.

View from the tent

Your tent should protect you from rain and bad weather. But thou shalt not suffer from claustrophobia in it! But when the weather and nature are at their best, you want to soak it up 🙂 Right out of your tent! For a particularly beautiful view out of the tent: a retractable vestibule (awning) and a fly net (mesh) on the tent door or a high mesh section on the inner tent.

Of course, price is also an important factor when buying a tent! How much tent do you get for your money? Really good tents from well-known outdoor brands cost several hundred euros and are definitely worth the money. However, it is understandable that many people have a price ceiling for buying a tent.

The good news in this case: There are also some good alternatives for just over a hundred euros. In the core, the weight of these tents is then usually a few hundred grams higher. However, compared to the top tents, they cost only about half. I realize that price is an important factor. That’s why I’ve included these inexpensive alternatives above.

What types of tents are there?

In this section I explain in detail the different tent designs. I’ll also list the pros and cons for you, and then give a conclusion on tent construction.

The following designs are possible for a tent for bike touring and a bikepacking tent

The ridge tent is a very simple tent design. It is built in a wedge shape and the tent walls slope steeply towards the outside.

advantages and disadvantages

✅ Special lightweight construction: This construction can be a few hundred grams lighter than other types of tents. There are therefore some UL tents in the ridge tent design. ❌ Steeply sloping tent walls: This also severely limits the space inside.

Because of this disadvantage, ridge tents are only the exception nowadays. This design was superseded by other designs.

Tunnel tent

As the name suggests, these tents look very similar to a tunnel. The tent poles are almost perpendicular to the ground when the tent is erected. This results in the following properties:

✅ Good ratio between floor space and available space as well as seat height Comparatively large vestibule due to the tunnel construction, especially an advantage in comparison with dome tents. ✅ very good space-to-weight ratio ❌ Unfavorable much attack surface for wind and squalls. To minimise the area of attack, the tent should be aligned lengthwise to the wind. ❌ Not free-standing: Must be braced

The walls of the dome tent are almost as steep as those of the tunnel tent. This results in a number of interesting properties

✅ Good ratio between floor space and space available as well as seat height – but somewhat worse than the tunnel tent ✅ good space-to-weight ratio – here also somewhat worse than a tunnel tent ✅ Free-standing: Stands without guy ropes and pegs ✅ Resistant to wind gusts and storms

The geo tent is a complex tent construction, suitable for 2 persons and more and offers a number of unique advantages. If the tent has to be particularly robust, then the geo tent can be a good choice.

✅ Also good ratio between floor space and space available – similar to dome tent ✅ Very robust against wind and storm: Due to the multiple crossed pole construction ✅ Carries snow loads well ✅ Free-standing: Stands without guy ropes or pegs ❌ Complex under construction: Requires at least 2 people

Bivouac tent

Take a bivy sack, add a mini tent to the head end and the bivy tent is ready. Due to the limited space, as well as low comfort, the Biwack tent is a niche product. For a short bikepacking trip, the bivy tent can be an alternative to a bivy sack or a 1-person tent.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Biwack tent

✅ Unbeatable light tent ✅ Unbeatable small tent pack size ❌ Low comfort ❌ Hardly any space: Can only be used for sleeping

A roll-up tent is more suitable for weekend trips by car. I mention this design therefore only for the sake of completeness. The poles are integrated into the tent. The tent practically pops up by itself when it is opened. Thus it stands within a few seconds and is also quickly packed again.

However, due to its construction, the packed tent is very heavy and large. This makes it unsuitable as a tent for bike touring and certainly not as a bikepacking tent. A throw tent is also not wind and weather resistant. Tents of this type are therefore more often found at festivals.

Conclusion – Tent construction

At the beginning of this article we clarified your requirements for a tent. Then we took a close look at the most important features when buying a tent. Now you know the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of tents. So match your requirements with the features of the tent builders and then make a buying decision.

The tents presented in this article can also help you decide. Do you have any questions or suggestions for additions? Then feel free to write me a comment 🙂

Ultralight sleeping pad test & comparison – find your next featherweight companion for trekking, bikepacking and all other outdoor adventures. Great overview and practical test

Wild camping in Europe – where is it legal and where is it illegal? In this article you will find the complete overview with all countries

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What’s The Best Cycle Touring & Bikepacking Tent? (2024 Edition)

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Welcome to my introduction to tent choice for the touring cyclist or bikepacker, in which an actual human writer with loads of relevant experience ( hi! ) will explain what to look for in a tent for cycle touring or bikepacking, and suggest a range of tents for all budgets available worldwide.

Before we get to the good stuff, though, there’s one important thing to know:

There’s currently no established category of tents specifically for cycle touring and bikepacking.

If you’ve already spent some time researching, you’ll have noticed that most tents seem to be designed and marketed for hiking, backpacking, mountaineering, car camping, and general outdoor pursuits, rather than specifically for cycle tours and bikepacking trips.

You might find the occasional exception to this rule, such as MSR’s new-for-2024 Hubba Hubba Bikepack series. But it doesn’t take much investigation to reveal that these are the same old Hubba Hubba backpacking tents with shorter pole sections, different carry sacks, and lots of marketing spin, rather than new tents designed from the ground(sheet) up for cyclists.

And the lightweight tent market is a crowded one. Walk into REI or Decathlon or any other large, high-street outdoor gear retailer and you’ll find a huge range of tent options, from ultralight shelters through to heavyweight family tents, freestanding domes to tunnels and teepees, tents with ventilation and bug-mesh or with snow cowls and snow stakes, double-wall and single-wall tents, tents with or without awnings or footprints – and at prices from next to nothing up hundreds of pounds or dollars. 

Yes – it can be hard to know where to start. (That’s why I originally wrote this post back in 2013, before the AI chatbots took over.)

And why the focus on people with cars and backpacks rather than bicycles? Simple: the market is much, much bigger. It’s about profit margins. Bikepacking may be growing in popularity, but bicycle travellers still sit on the margins, and are lucky if they get more than a quick mention in the product description.

The truth is that you’ll be lucky to find any tent designed specifically with cycle tourers and bikepackers in mind. 

Given that, it’s natural to start searching for trustworthy recommendations when choosing a tent for cycle touring or bikepacking – which I’m guessing is how you arrived here.

Here’s another important thing to remember:

‘Best’ means nothing outside the context of your  bike trip. Every ride is different.

So before you go any deeper into researching the best tent for a cycle tour or bikepacking trip, take a moment to ask yourself:

• Are you hunting for a cheap tent for a short overnight bike adventure close to home, or investing in a long-lasting tent for a transcontinental or round-the-world tour ?
• Are you a heavyweight tourer who likes plenty of living space and room for luggage, a minimalist ultralight bikepacker, or somewhere in between?
• Do you have racks and panniers to take bulky and heavy loads, or are you bikepacking with frame luggage, handlebar harnesses and fork cages alone?
• Do you plan on staying mostly at nice campsites with perfect tent pitches, or wild camping in the woods with your own stove and cookware ?
• Are you planning a fair-weather ride in good weather, or will you encounter winter temperatures , strong winds, high altitudes, or other extreme conditions?

As I mentioned, there are many tried-and-tested tents for cycling and camping adventures that have proven themselves on a massive range of journeys.

But if you want to delve any deeper, you’ll find there’s no real ‘best tent for cycle touring or bikepacking’ until you’ve asked yourself the questions above.

If you haven’t answered them, now’s the time to do so. And if you’re struggling to find clear answers, I’ve written introductions to the what , where , when , who and how of adventure cycle touring and bikepacking to help you do so.

I once rode the length of England without no money ( long story ), sleeping in a Tesco Value 2‑berth tent I got from a recycling centre. Another time I pedalled off-road through a stormy Mongolian springtime with a stormproof German tent costing hundreds of Euros. And before that, my wife and I shared a spacious 3‑person freestanding tent as we traversed the campgrounds of Europe. On each occasion, the tent I was using was the “best” tent for the job. You get the picture.

Okay. Got a clear idea of what kind of bike trip you’re going on? Great! Read on…

What Type Of Tent Is Best For Cycle Touring & Bikepacking?

I’ve spent a long time (too long, probably) looking at cyclists’ tent-buying trends over the last couple of decades I’ve been exploring the world on two wheels.

And I can tell you with confidence that the most popular kind of cycle touring or bikepacking tent for a solo rider is a freestanding, double-walled, 2‑berth, 3‑season tent in an inconspicuous shade of green , weighing 1–2kg (2–4 pounds), striking a balance between comfort, durability and weight, strapping neatly to a rear rack or a handlebar harness, with room inside for the rider and the most valuable bits of their luggage, and space in the awning for more. (The bike itself can stay outside.)

For a couple or pair , it’s the 3‑berth model of the same tent.

And for a solo ultralight rider , it’s the 1‑berth model.

If you asked me to pick just one range of tents that ticks all of these boxes, it would be MSR’s Hubba Hubba range, which is available in 1‑, 2- and 3‑berth models.

( Click here to skip down to the full details, photos, and manufacturer links for the MSR Hubba Hubba range).

I’ve used and abused many tents in the Hubba Hubba range over the years, including a 2014 2‑berth Hubba Hubba NX, a 2012 1‑berth Hubba, and a 2010 3‑berth Mutha Hubba HP. They’re heavily patched-up with seam seal and repair tape, but I still use all of them regularly (see the photos above).

If you don’t have any highly specialised requirements and you’re looking for a top-quality tent you can simply grab and ride out the door with, the MSR Hubba Hubba range is what I’d usually recommend.

As a bonus, being of the free-standing variety of tents, they’re extremely easy to pitch, making them ideal for newcomers to frequent camping in varied conditions.

How Do Tents For Cyclists Differ From Tents For Hikers & Backpackers?

Before I start listing the best cycle touring and bikepacking tents, I’ll briefly explain how tent-buying priorities for cyclists differ from, say, long-distance hikers, and how that might affect your choice.

The first big difference is that packed weight and volume is usually less important for cyclists.

On a bike trip, you have a two wheeled, pedal-powered vehicle to carry your gear, rather than shouldering the burden yourself. This means – generally speaking – you can consider bigger, heavier tents that will allow you to live more comfortably, fare better in bad weather, last longer, and possibly cost less too.

Long-distance thru-hikers in particular are often concerned with minimising their base pack weight, and for that reason sometimes carry single-skin shelters held up by carbon-fibre trekking poles that weigh just a few hundred grams. Unless you’re hoping to win an endurance bikepacking race, you probably won’t be sharing this obsession. (But in case you are, there are suggestions below for ultralight tents for bikepacking too.)

A second difference is that cyclists often camp close to roads, as well as in the backcountry. 

This brings with it slightly different priorities when it comes to visibility .

Many hikers prefer to be as visible as possible in remote landscapes in case of needing assistance. Cyclists just as often want the opposite: to be able to wild camp (or stealth camp) undetected , close to civilisation when necessary. For that reason, the colour of the pitched tent often factors into the buying decision.

This is less of a concern for remote, off-road riding in wilderness areas where you’re going to be a long way from people. But because trips like this often involve road sections too, both cycle tourers and off-road bikepackers are served best by tents suited to both scenarios.

A third, although marginal, difference is that hikers have the ability to pitch ultralight shelters which use trekking poles for structure. 

If you’re on a bike, some of these shelters may seem to offer a fabulously lightweight and packable solution for a bikepacking expedition. But you’ll have to buy/make/bring an additional set of poles to set them up. These poles will have no other use, which cancels out the weight savings. If reducing your luggage is really your top priority, consider using the bike itself to support a tarp shelter .

The Best Cycle Touring & Bikepacking Tents For 2024

To the listings!

The following tents are specifically recommended for cycle touring and bikepacking , and have been extensively road-tested by the community.

Models in this list come from a variety of manufacturers worldwide, so whether you’re reading this article in the UK or Europe, the USA or Canada, Australia, or elsewhere, there’ll probably be options here you can find locally, as well as online.

Some of these recommendations are inspired by my interviews with highly experienced riders who have spent countless miles and years road-testing these tents. Others are tents that frequently appear in trip reports and receive unanimously positive reviews from real-world users. The listings are fully updated to reflect the latest models and prices for the 2024 season.

We’ll start with low-budget tents for short and simple trips, move on to the most popular tents in the mid-range for general cycle touring and bikepacking service, and work our way up to the most durable lightweight tents for world-ranging rides of months or years.

To finish, we’ll looking at a few examples of specialist tents suited to the weight and pack size restrictions faced by ultralight bikepackers with minimal frame luggage (though this niche is not my usual focus).

For each tent, you’ll find links to manufacturer’s websites where you can get detailed, up-to-date specifications. Wherever possible, I’ve included links to online retailers in the UK, USA, Australia, and Canada offering the best deals I can find (affiliate links are marked with an asterisk; you can find out more about my affiliate policy here ).

These are not the only tents that’ll do the job. In fact, the tent you already have in the garage/basement/attic/storage unit might be perfectly adequate, as you don’t really need any of this fancy gear anyway .

But I can promise you the listing below represent the very best of what the global cycle touring and bikepacking community is using today.

Wild Country Zephyros Compact 2 (UK, £230)

Wild Country is the budget marque of the premium British manufacturer Terra Nova. The 1.95kg  Zephyros Compact 2 takes more than a little inspiration from Hilleberg’s Akto, a favourite high-end tent for minimalists since it was popularised by TV outdoorsman Ray Mears. It requires staking out at each end, but you get a lot of interior space for a reasonably low weight and with a single pole supporting a single-pitch structure. 

The “Compact” tag was added to the name in 2020, with the tent now featuring shorter pole sections for a more convenient 30×16cm packed shape for bikepacking luggage and small panniers, as is fast becoming the trend.

There’s also a 1‑berth version which weighs in at 1.65kg, but in my opinion – especially given the small awning – the 300g you’d save isn’t worth the loss of interior storage space for your gear, unless minimising weight is your number one priority.

• Exclusive to Tom’s Bike Trip readers : Get 15% off the Wild Country Zephyros Compact 2 on the Terra Nova website when you use the voucher code TOMA15 at checkout.
• The Wild Country Zephyros Compact 2 is also available online or in-store in the UK from Go Outdoors ,  Snow + Rock and  Cotswold Outdoor , or online-only from Amazon . Try eBay.co.uk for second-hand offers.
• Wild Country is a British brand, so (especially post-Brexit) this tent is quite hard to find elsewhere in the world.

Alpkit Ordos 2 (UK, £235)

Direct retailer and manufacturer Alpkit have made a splash in the UK bikepacking and cycle touring scene with their Ordos ultralight 3‑season wedge tents. I used one on a traverse of the central highlands of Armenia , and I’d still be using it if it hadn’t later been trampled by a herd of cattle.

With 2- and 3‑berth models available and a choice of a red or green rainfly, the lightweight Ordos tents – just 1.4kg for the 2‑berth and 1.7kg for the 3‑berth in their most minimal configurations – are roomy, practical, well-ventilated, easy to pitch, and reasonably priced, doing best in warmer weather.

The classic wedge design echoes classic tents such as the Vaude Hogan UL from Germany (see below) and Big Agnes Seedhouse from the USA. It’s not quite freestanding but close enough for most real-world scenarios, requiring a minimum of four stakes for a good pitch.

The most recent versions of the Ordos feature shorter-section collapsible poles, making the 42cm-long pack shape and size slightly more handlebar harness-friendly (though still not as friendly as other tents in this list).

• Order the Alpkit Ordos 2 or Ordos 3 direct from Alpkit in the UK or with worldwide delivery.
• Also try eBay for rare second-hand models.

REI Co-Op Quarter Dome SL 1/2/3 (USA, $330/350/400)

If your tour is beginning in the States and you need a new set of camping gear, you’d do well to head to the nearest branch of REI .

REI is a well-known outdoor co-operative manufacturing a range of top-rated gear and selling it without the third-party mark-up, so you get a lot for your money. Sign up as a lifetime member of the co-op and you’ll also get 10% of your spend back in store credit at the end of each year, as well as free delivery and various other benefits.

Their ultralight, semi-freestanding Quarter Dome, available in 1‑berth (2lb 6oz / 1.1kg), 2‑berth (2lb 14oz / 1.5kg) and 3‑berth (4lb 9oz / 2.1kg) versions, was the most popular cycle touring tent among Stateside riders in my most recent survey of cycle touring and bikepacking tents (though I have not yet slept in one personally).

The mesh inner can be pitched fully freestanding for warmer weather and stargazing, with the rainfly needing just a couple of (included) stakes.

Expect plentiful headroom, excellent build quality and one of the best warranties you’ll find in the outdoor equipment industry.

• Buy the REI Co-Op Quarter Dome range online from REI.com in the USA , or in-store from one of 132 retail locations in the lower 48.
• Try eBay.com for second-hand models of this popular range of tents.

MEC Spark 2.0 1/2/3P (Canada, CA$375/475/575)

Looking for a tent for a cycle tour originating in Canada? The Spark 2.0 range of tents from Canadian gear retailer MEC comes in 1‑, 2- and 3‑berth versions at a very reasonable weight for the price – the solo 1‑berth version weighs just 1.34kg packed.

With a familiar looking freestanding dome-shaped design, the 2- and 3‑berth models each have two doors and two vestibules for easy access to extra storage for panniers and other luggage. All models feature a 3000mm waterproof, 30D polyester ripstop fly (ie: industry-standard waterproof material) to protect you from the heaviest of North American springtime downpours.

And because the Spark 2.0 range is designed, manufacturerd and sold direct by Canada’s largest gear retailer, each model also works out considerably cheaper than similar tents from better-known brands, and is covered by MEC’s ‘rock solid’ guarantee.

• Get the MEC Spark 2.0 tent online from the MEC website or from any of their 22 retail stores across Canada.

MSR Elixir 1–4 (Worldwide, £250–380 / US$320–490 / CA$350–635)

If saving weight is not of utmost importance, and you’re looking to save money, but you still want a quality tent from a reputable brand, the  MSR Elixir range is a very good bet (click for Europe / USA / Canada official manufacturer webpages).

These tents have a very similar freestanding dome structure and a range of 1- to 4‑berth variants – similar to the much-loved Hubba Hubba range (see below) but for significantly lower prices. Why? They’re considerably heavier: 2.77kg compared to 1.76kg in the case of the 2‑berth Elixir versus the 2‑berth Hubba. That’s almost 60% more weight, although we’re still only talking the equivalent of a 1‑litre water bottle. For a fully-loaded rider carrying a tent on a rear rack, that’s a marginal difference, though the 51cm-long packed size will exclude it from many bikepacking handlebar harness setups.

Slightly more spacious than the Hubba Hubbas, and with a more complex pole structure, you can expect the Elixir tents to last even longer than their more expensive brethren. As such, they’d be an excellent choice for fully-loaded riders heading off on long-haul trips where maximum durability is key.

UK/European markets get a choice of green or grey rainfly while North Americans are, for unknown reasons, stuck with grey.

• Buy the MSR Elixir range in-store or online in the UK from Go Outdoors , Snow + Rock , Cotswold Outdoor or Ellis Brigham . Online retailers include OutdoorGear UK , Amazon and eBay.co.uk .
• Buy the MSR Elixir range online in the USA direct from MSR or from REI , Amazon or eBay.com . Don’t forget REI also have 132 retail locations across the contiguous US.
• Buy the MSR Elixir range online in Canada direct from MSR or from MEC , Amazon or eBay.ca . Again, MEC have numerous retail locations where you may be able to see the MSR Elixir pitched before you buy.

MSR Hubba Hubba 1/2/3P + Bikepack editions (Worldwide, £385/445/650 / $470/550/630)

In the long term, the MSR Hubba Hubba range ( Europe / USA / Canada webpages) is possibly the all-time most recommended series of tents among the global community of cycle tourers and bikepackers, as mentioned in the introduction. As a result, it has spawned a thousand cheap and inferior imitations .

Riders love the generous headroom, the inner mesh pockets, the vast luggage awnings, and the low packed volume and weight.

The range features 1‑, 2- and 3‑berth models (all three of which are pictured above) and has been updated several times over the years as tent technology evolves. For 2024 the range has been slightly expanded with the addition of “Bikepack” editions of the 1- and 2‑berth tents (but not the 3‑berth), almost identical to the regular models but with shorter pole sections, a packed size and shape better suited to handlebar harnesses, a dark green rainfly, and a slightly higher price tag.

The MSR Hubba Hubba range aims to strike that finest of balances between weight, comfort and durability. In other words, they’re neither the lightest, biggest, nor longest-lasting tents in this list, but you’re unlikely to find fault with the end result.

Since 2022, the North American models (pictured above) have come with a “Sahara” yellow-tan rainfly, replacing the light grey of previous “NX” iterations.

In Europe (where the range still goes by the old “NX” naming scheme), grey and green rainflys are still available. If you have a choice, I’d recommend green for more inconspicuous wild camping .

A solo fully-loaded cycle tourer might go for the 3lb 4oz / 1.5kg, 2‑berth Hubba Hubba 2P , or the Bikepack edition of the same tent, which may also suit those bikepacking in pairs . This is my personal go-to tent for most scenarios.

Couples with a full luggage setup will probably prefer the spacious 1.7kg, 3‑berth Hubba Hubba 3P . This is my and my wife’s preferred tent when we ride together.

Ultralight solo bikepackers will likely go for the 1‑berth Hubba Hubba Bikepack with a minimum packed weight of 2lb 13oz / 0.93kg. I took an older version of this tent down the US West Coast a few years back and wrote this review .

There has in the past been a 4‑berth variant called the Papa Hubba, but it isn’t part of the current range.

Expect MSR tents to last many years if well looked-after, with top-quality weatherproofing, well-designed ventilation, superb build quality, and super-easy setup, with a variety of pitching options for different climates, including inner-only and fly/footprint-only. If you do encounter difficulties, warranty repairs or exchanges can be requested from MSR’s service centres in WA, USA and Ireland.

• Buy the MSR Hubba Hubba range in-store or online in the UK from Go Outdoors , Cotswold Outdoor , Snow + Rock , or Ellis Brigham . Online-only retailers include Alpine Trek , OutdoorGear UK and Amazon . Also try eBay.co.uk for second-hand offers.
• Buy the MSR Hubba Hubba range online in the USA direct from MSR or from REI (also in-store ) , Amazon or eBay.com .
• Buy the MSR Hubba Hubba range online in Canada direct from MSR or from MEC (also in-store ) , Amazon or eBay.ca .

Vaude Hogan UL (UK & Europe, £470/€500)

Another tent that has stood the test of time, German brand Vaude’s classic Hogan UL 2‑berth tent was, back in 2007, my first real high-quality tent. I rode across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Mongolia with it for four years, so I guess you could say I’ve put it through its paces (read my very outdated original review here ).

At 1.9kg it’s not the lightest tent in this list, nor is it truly freestanding, but it is extremely durable, waterproof, with a decent-sized porch and a nice natural shade of green available for the fly. 

As with other wedge-shaped tents, it’s a little more sensitive to side winds than tunnel or geodesic (aka: dome) tents, so you’ll do well to be mindful of wind direction when pitching.

• Buy the Vaude Hogan UL online in the UK dire c t from Vaude or from Amazon .
• Buy the Vaude Hogan UL in its native Germany direct from Vaude or from Bergzeit.de .
• Vaude doesn’t currently have an official distributor in North America or Australia.

Terra Nova Voyager (UK, £660)

A British design that’s been on the scene for decades, the semi-freestanding classic Voyager is a long-term favourite among round-the-world riders originating from the UK, in part because Terra Nova don’t feel the need to change the design of or discontinue perfectly good tents. This has allowed the Voyager to build up a second-to-none reputation. It’s the tent I would have bought at the start of my first round-the-world attempt if I could have afforded it!

With a packed weight of 2.15kg, lightness is not the Voyager’s top design priority – but instead, you get top-class construction and weatherproofing, loads of liveability, and extreme durability for years (decades!) of riding.

The Voyager’s inner tent can be pitched fully freestanding, so in good weather you’ll also be able to take advantage of its part-mesh construction for ventilation and views of the night sky.

• Buy the Terra Nova Voyager online in the UK direct from Terra Nova , with an exclusive 15% reader discount when you use the voucher code TOMA15 at checkout.
• The Terra Nova Voyager is also available in-store or online in the UK from  Cotswold Outdoor and Snow + Rock , or online only from  UltralightOutdoorGear.co.uk and Amazon . Try eBay.co.uk . for second-hand offers and deals.
• As with their subsidiary brand Wild Country, Terra Nova tents are not easily found outside the UK.

Hilleberg Nallo 2/3/GT (Sweden, £910+)

The most lusted after (and expensive) tents for long-haul trips for which durability is the key consideration are undoubtedly those in the Nallo range from Swedish tentmakers Hilleberg .

They’re not the most lightweight, nor the best choice for hot climates, but they do have an unmatched reputation for quality and longevity. Hilleberg have long resisted following the trend for ever lighter and more flimsy materials: these tents are among the most tried and tested in the world and will last – literally – for decades.

The Nallo 2  (2.4kg) is recommended for solo heavyweight tourers, with the Nallo 3 GT  (3.1kg) delivering luxury on-the-road living for couples and their luggage.

Other Hilleberg tents often seen on the road include the lighter 1.7kg  Akto  for soloists and bikepackers, and the freestanding and spacious 3.3kg  Allak 2 for couples and heavyweight tourers. The Swedish brand of course makes excellent winter tents, with the 2.4kg  Soulo standing out.

• Buy the Hilleberg Nallo range in-store or online in the UK from Ellis Brigham or Tiso , or online-only from UltralightOutdoorGear.co.uk or AlpineTrek.co.uk . Always check eBay.co.uk for deals and second-hand offers.
• Buy the Hilleberg Nallo range online in the USA from Moosejaw or eBay.com , or for in-store locations see Hilleberg’s list of authorized dealers .
• Hilleberg does not appear to have an official dealer in Canada , but you might as well check eBay.ca anyway.

Ultralight Bikepacking Tents

The following tents are included in this list as examples of shelters that have either been developed with bikepacking in mind or crossed over from thru-hiking circles because they’re the lightest and most packable shelters you can get.

The range of minimalist tents and shelters serving this niche has only grown with the rise of bikepacking , so consider this a sample of the kind of options you’ll find if you start digging deeper into this market. It is certainly not an exhaustive list: for that, you’ll have to visit a specialist bikepacking gear blog.

You’ll find some of the lighter tents from the list above – such as the Alpkit Ordos 2 or the MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 1P – making their way onto bikepacking kit lists , possibly in stripped-down form.

Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo (USA, $260)

Weighing just 680g (that’s the same as a full, standard-sized cycling water bottle), the single-pole, single-wall Lunar Solo relies on being staked out and requires you to supply your own pole (it’s designed to be used with a trekking pole). It’s never going to be as comfortable as a double-wall tent with a geodesic structure – but if you’re OK with that, it’s difficult to imagine a more minimal shelter that isn’t a bivvy bag.

• Get the Lunar Solo direct from Six Moon Designs in the USA , or from Ultralight Outdoor Gear in the UK .

Terra Nova Starlite (UK, £655)

Launched in 2018, the Terra Nova Starlite series, available in 1‑, 2- and 3‑berth options, was one of the first British tents specifically designed with bikepacking in mind. Aside from striking a great combination of weight and weather-resistance, the 2‑berth Starlite 2 weighs just 1.5kg and, thanks to a reduction in pole section length, has a packed length of just 29cm. This means it’ll fit easily into a small pannier, or strap to your handlebars using the stuff-sack’s integrated webbing loops.

Some might consider its non-freestanding tunnel design a negative, but in the type of climate and terrain it’s designed for, staking it out really shouldn’t be a problem if you choose your pitch accordingly. Once up, it’s as roomy as you’d expect from a tunnel tent and very stable. That the optional footprint extends to cover the awning floor is a nice bonus.

• Read my long-term review of the Starlite 2 here .
• Get the Terra Nova Starlite 2 in the UK direct from Terra Nova , with a TomsBikeTrip.com exclusive 15% discount when you use the voucher code TOMA15 .
• The Terra Nova Starlite 2 is also available online in the UK from  Amazon , eBay.co.uk , and possibly elsewhere.
• As previously noted, Terra Nova products are hard to find outside of the UK.

More Tents For Cycle Touring & Bikepacking

If that’s not enough of a selection, try the following, which have also been recommended by readers of this blog:

• Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2  (USA, $530)
• Decathlon Forclaz MT900 Trekking Dome Tent 2P (UK/Europe, £220)
• Durston X‑Mid Pro 1 Superlight Tent (Canada, $654)
• Macpac Minaret 2P  (New Zealand, NZ$900)
• Marmot Tungsten  (Worldwide, $214)
• Nordisk Telemark 2.2 PU  (Denmark)

I have also happily cycled the length of England with a Tesco Value tent I rescued from the local household recycling centre, because remember:  you don’t actually need any of this fancy stuff .

Which tent(s) have you successfully used on tours or bikepacking trips? Let us know in the comments .

Bogged down in research for your next big bicycle adventure?

I wrote a whole book to help with that. How To Hit The Road is designed to be read at your leisure, making planning a bike tour simple and achievable, no matter the length, duration or budget. Available globally as an ebook or paperback.

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Also relevant to this post:

• Terra Nova Starlite 2 Bikepacking Tunnel Tent: Long-Term Review & Photos
• What’s The Best Camping Stove For Cycle Touring Or Bikepacking?
• How To Custom Build The Ultimate Expedition Touring Bike (With Pictures)

Comments ( skip to respond )

143 responses to “what’s the best cycle touring & bikepacking tent (2024 edition)”.

Surprised Durston isn’t even mentioned. The X‑Mid Pro and Pro + are a fraction of the weight of the tents you’ve reviewed and the Z pole is perfect for bike packing. 600–700 grams for the whole set up. 

Think I’ll stick with that over the tents you’ve mentioned.

Thanks, Chris – I’ve added this to the list of reader-recommended tents at the end of the article.

Incidentally, in the above post, the example tent I mentioned under “Ultralight Bikepacking Tents” is the Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo at 680 grams, which is similar on paper to the Durston and I think quite representative of this category.

Excellent review Tom.Some great guidance.I’ve used the hubba nx on the wild Atlantic way in Ireland & it was excellent in all areas as you’ve said. Recently I bought a Durston XMid 1 to go sun 1kg.It’s a lightweight backpacking tent & you would use your trekking poles normally to pitch it.As the hiking poles are awkward on the bike:) Dan also supplies ultralight poles to pitch it. I’ve used it recently in Kerry doing a few days & it’s very good.It’s 800g without poles & still below the 1kg with them.it’s pitches rapidly with four pegs & have double entry & big vestibules. It’s a quirky offset interior but there’s ample room in the one man. Just something different & quite good value if you’ve a buddy coming home from the states & you avoid the add ons,Ciaran

Thank you for this page (and the whole site).

I’ve got a Wild Country Helm 1 and Helm 3 for bike camping (depending on how many of us are going), but I’ve recently been thinking of the Hoolie 3 ETC or the Robens Pioneer 3EX or Voyager 3. The really large porches on both these seem to lend themselves to bike touring as they are big enough to put your bike and panniers in. Do you have any experience of these?

Glad you’re finding the site useful! I don’t have personal experience with these tents, but having tried to find a way to keep my bike in the porch/awning I’ve eventually decided it falls into the category of “nice but not necessary”, and I haven’t had any real issues keeping the bike outside since taking this approach. The most I’ll do in bad weather is cover the saddle and handlebars with something (tarp, poncho, plastic bag) to keep them relatively dry until I get back on in the morning. In any case, as you’ve also found out, most tents have space for your luggage but not much else!

My wife and I have just completed our first bike packing trip with a 28 year old Terra Nova Trisar. The floor has had better days and the tape on the fly is just starting to leak but they make a great product. We have climbed the world in this from lightweight treks to perched on a bergschrund alpine climbing. Certainly a product to consider if you want quality

Thank you Andrew. Always useful to hear first-hand experiences, especially after this much use! Terra Nova tents certainly have a good reputation for durability.

¡Hola¡ Ahora tengo 71 años y empecé mis aventuras hace siete años. La tienda que me compré fue una Nallo 4GT ¡Enorme! pero cada ciclista es un mundo. Lo máximo que he estado han sido 15 días, en Francia y en invierno (finales de noviembre principios de diciembre de Toulouse a Royan y vuelta). Cuando viajo sólo hago camping “salvaje” muchas veces. Mi esposa se ha apuntado y vamos los dos. Nuestro territorio es España, Alemania pero sobre todo Francia. Uso una tienda grande y cómoda porque al final del día (podemos llegar a hacer 70 km) deseamos descansar, cenar bien y dormir confortablemente y tranquilos. Hemos tenido vientos muy fuertes y la tienda no se ha inmutado, así como mas de seis horas de lluvia torrencial y no ha entrado nada de agua. Con temperaturas bajo cero, es interesante porque dentor de la tienda hay unos 5 grados mas que en el exterior. En verano es muy calurosa, pero solo la usamos del atardecer al amanecer. Ahora han empezado a fallar las cremalleras (punto débil de Hilleberg) y hemos comprado una Keron 4GT, (La espero en tres dias) a veces la Nallo en su parte baja tocaba el saco de dormir y se mojaba este. Al año hacemos unas siete salidas y recorremos vias verdes. Encantado de compartir nuestras experiencias

Have you taken a look at the Ventour Wisp? Interesting set up and less than 1kg.

Hey Tom, any thoughts on the Naturehike Cloud Up 2?

Hi Tom, year ago i saw a Lonely Planet book On cycling 9 or so European countries starting up in the Alps or Switzerland. I can’t find it at LP and twice I had it in my hand planning to buy it but finds we’re tight at the time Regards Simon

I also have a Lonely Planet guide to cycling France somewhere… I think it was last updated in 2009.

Hi again Tom. I’ve been reading your tent recommendations — useful thinking. 

I just want to share that over the past 5–10 years I’ve done a number of bike trips, and I normally just buy a cheap two-man tent from Tesco or an online retailer if my last tent is gone. Each costs around £20+ sterling and I often give them away to a local at the end of the trip. So far they’ve worked a treat and have more than once stood up to storms, hail, snow, etc. Like you say, you don’t always need expensive stuff. 

That said, always aim to be safe…

Thank you Ian! Those on a budget would do well to heed this advice. For what it’s worth, I also used a Tesco 2‑person tent on a tour (I bought it used from the local tip) and it worked perfectly well through a rainy English spring. That said, I wouldn’t rely on it for, say, a crossing of Patagonia… ?

HI All, Does anyone have any experience with Kammok hammock tents? Sunda 2.0 seems like a nice option, pricey imo. But is it worth the $?

Hi. Thanks for the advices. Cracking website. I’ve just discovered it. Very useful.

Depending when and where we cycle we use a tent or a tarp. We’ve been travelling by bike since 24/30 years.

Hilleberg’s Nallo 2 GT : Scotland, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands, Baltic countries. For spring or summer 4 to 5 weeks trips. Great comfort and space. Bombproof. But heavy. And bulky.

Mountain Equipment AR UL 2 : France from late spring to early fall. 1 to 3 weeks trips. Very good tent. Pity ME does not produce tents anymore. Sturdy, reliable, compact, light. A bit stuffy inside : bags or paniers sleep out. We also use it for hiking trips.

DD Hammocks Superlight tarp 2.9 × 3 m : France. From late spring in the South, to early fall. We spent more than 2 weeks in French “Bretagne” under it and it was absolutely great, even under bad weather. Very large protection against rain. But not when humidity fell… We also used it during two weeks on the EV8 route along the Mediterranean coast. Brilliant. In fact, since I changed my old Scico paniers for Alpkit bags, I tend to take the lightest shelter as possible. Unfortunately, I’m not sure 😉 we’ll be able to travel in Scotland under a tarp in summer, and the ME is also a wee small for this rainy destination.

We’re using a Wild Country Hoolie 6 for cycle touring as a family of four. It ticked all our boxes — packs small enough to fit easily in our trailer, light enough (7kgs) has two sleeping areas, height to stand up, loads of storage space, space for the kids to bring a couple of friends, and roomy enough inside to contemplate sitting out bad weather for a few days, whilst being a pretty functional 3‑season tent. There were a couple of other tents on our wishlist which were either too expensive for us to contemplate, or simply unavailable when we needed to get our tent, but a couple of years on from purchase, we’re very happy so far with it.

Hi Tom, I really enjoyed the article and I too have spent many a comfortable, and uncomfortable, night in a MSR Hubba Hubba 2P. I picked it up secondhand 5 years ago and it has served me well (we’re even using it yesterday on Islay) but I now need a bit more waterproofing in my tent life. I do like the USA-style tents with high walls, roomy inner, 2 doors, etc and I’m leaning towards a brand-new MSR Hubba, a Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 or even a Sierra Designs Meteor 3000 which I’ve only just read about and has been tweaked with Northern European weather in mind! Also the SD is a bargain!! I spend 100+ nights a year under canvas, either backpacking or biketouring, and most of those are in the UK so waterproofing is essential and of course the ability to stand up in strong winds. Are there any others to consider in this category style?

You might try the REI Quarter Dome, or Hilleberg’s Allak (not the lightest)… but if you’re happy with the Hubba Hubba then why change it? 🙂

Banshee Update to comment posted on July 28, 2016! The seam sealant worked. Continued using the tent until 2019 when I bought a Vango Tempest as I needed to store muddy panniers inside a tent vestibule on campsites. As expected the Tempest is fine. Because of Covid my Tempest is trapped in Germany so I have got out the old Banshee to see if I can UK tour with it this summer. Put up in Garden for seveal days now to check it out and its still good! Groundsheet ants bite holes fixed with Gorilla Tape. Money saving tip if you want a footprint to put under your groundsheet. Use builders roofing under sheet cut to size its very tough light and thin — started doing this a few years ago. Most roofers have huge rolls of the stuff and can easily spare a couple of meters.

Thanks for the tip, Phil!

Anyone experience with wickiiup tipi tents?

Not personally. Anyone else?

Hi Tom! Thanks for this website and greetings from Finland. I would like to add the Norwegian Helsport Ringstind 1–2 to the premium ultralight category for solo riders. Used it last summer for my 6 week bike tour and even though it is not self-standing, it is quick to set up and as the inner tent can remain connected to the outer, everything will stay dry even if pitched in the rain (+ it has excellent ventilation). The vestibule is just big enough for two panniers + some other items. Footprint is sold separately. The tent is nice and long even for taller riders. I also bought the Helsport Bitihorn superlight tarp to extend the camp area in bad weather, as the tent is a bit too compact for anything other than sleeping.

Entire sleeping system under 4 pounds. If you want to go minimalist on weight but not sactifice comfort, there is the Nemo Ultralight 1p at 812g or 2p at 935g. Its made by a New Hampshire company (USA), very high quality, lifetime warranty. I use it for bike packing. Except for the light poles, the entire tent fills half of a 3.5 liter Salsa Everything Bag. I also use Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight sleeping bag (extra long) which can be packed in a second Salsa Everything Bag and still give room for sleeping pad. Usually I can carry tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow and towel in two Salsa bags that weighs in at under 4 pounds. I stick the tent poles in the frame bag just under the top tube. https://www.nemoequipment.com/product/hornet-elite/ Keep on peddeling! Fred

Hi Tom Followed your recommendation on Bike choice and went to Richard at Oxford Bike Works and I love the bike he built for me. None of our three tents we use make your tent list though — 1) Vango Omega 350 — originally bought for weekend car camping but a great size for a group of 3 adults bike touring, relatively cheap and massive storage, 2) Nigor Great Auk 2 — enough height and space in porch for two adults to be able to sit in chairs (Helinox) and wait out foul weather, 3) MSR Hubba Tour2 — picked up for £260 this year — has masses of storage space for panniers etc and decent sleeping space for 2 adults. This years international touring scuppered, but enjoyed both the Nigor and MSR around East Anglia this year.

Likewise I am very pleased with my Oxford Bike Works bicycle. Re tents, your Nigor Great Auk 2 is an eye watering £800 and heavy at 3.5kg. I went for a Luxe Outdoor Peakarch TL-6350, less than half the price, and 1kg+ lighter. The MSR Hubba Tour2 looks like you got a bargain though.

Hi Allen What would you consider an adequate water column for a bike touring tent?

I almost decided to get a big agnes copper spur 3 for crossing Europe with my gf next near. However yesterday I saw it has a water column of just 1200, which seems awfully low to me, especially for the floor. (The other tent i looked at was Hilleberg Nammatj, but it costs twice as much, and interior space is a lot more limited.) 

Also thanks for all the amazing info on your website.

cheers Jake

As much of Europe is in the temperate zone and you’ll be camping mostly on soft, moist ground, I would go for a tent with a higher water column rating for the floor than the rainfly. For example, MSR’s Hubba range has the same 1200mm rainfly fabric as the Copper Spur, but uses 3000mm for the floor. Having said that, if you’ve found a good deal on the Copper Spur and you can buy (or make) an additional footprint/floor protector to go with it, then I am sure it will serve you well for a few weeks in Europe.

Hope that helps!

To clarify, the models in the second pic with a central ‘spine’. Thanks.

This is the Vaude Hogan UL, which is mentioned in the article.

Hello, what are the Kharki coloured tents in the article thumbnail pls.

this is great thanks. I’m trying to decide on an ultra light tent that I can use for hiking or off road bike packing. Solo use. I will bivy if weather good so looking for one that I could use in the winter too, or am I trying to tick too many boxes in one tent. I bought a second hand terra nova laser competition 1 first to check I’d definitely be doing this to warrant getting a new one. From that I’ve learnt it would be good to be able to sit up. What would you recommend?

Have a look at Decathlon tents, some are light weight and good price, also Naturhike Cloud up 2 or Mongar tents.

The Hilleberg Soulo is a very capable 1‑berth 4‑season tent, but it’s not ultralight. You might consider the 1‑berth MSR Hubba NX, which has lots of headroom, but isn’t ideal for winter, though you would no doubt manage with it.

You missed out on Hilleberg Niak! The perfect compromise on everything except perhaps price.

Hi Moa! Thank you very much for this recommendation. The Niak looks like a relatively new model for Hilleberg, so would you mind telling us a little more about your experiences using it for cycle touring and/or bikepacking?

Excellent article Tom.Ive used the Msr Zoid 1.5,now discontinued but a great tent.Hiking,bike packing, motorbike trips, concerts etc & it was a dinger.Its for one & a half people ie fits two but plenty of room for one.They pop up second hand & are very well made, so should be considered if we’ll minded.I now use the Hubba 1 & love it as an excellent all rounder.I was lucky to spot it second hand, but only pitched in the guys house, for 90€.I thought it might be a copy but it’s genuine.Moral of the story, I know buying used tents is risky but like the zoid I sold, which was fit for years more use & the hubba I bought, pre-loved can work too with a bit of research & luck, Ciarán.

Thanks, Ciarán! You’re right that if a tent has been lightly used and well looked-after, there’s no reason it shouldn’t be a second-hand option. Always best if you can inspect it in person, of course!

Used a Vango Mirage 200 for a while. good tent but with pannier bags inside it wasn’t too roomy. Opted for the Vango Mirage 300, plenty of room, decent porch and I can kneel up fully inside. The extra weight is worth the extra benefit. Lots of good tents out there.

You have a what? ‑_-

“On a bike tour, you have a vehicle to carry your gear, rather than shouldering the burden yourself.”

The vehicle is your bicycle!

I noticed I commented last years edition of this post too. What I failed to say is that sometimes it is also interesting to notice how the type of tent you are using affects the way you travel. I mean rather than choosing a tent by listing ones personal priorities.

On my first solo tours I had a small, lightweight and highly waterproof tent. I could camp pretty much anywhere. Later I travelled with a friend who had this old, leaky and heavy four person tent. They had used it on their annual weeks hike in Lapland for a decade or two. His dad had told him the basic rules on how and where to pitch the tent.

So what happened is we learned to read the map and really put effort on finding the perfect spot. So if there is no lake, sea shore or riverside views, maybe there is is a spectacular hill top somewhere… And I dont think I would have found it using an ultralight one person sleep anywhere camo setup. Because I’m lazy and I dont have to.

Besides: a spacious four kilo tent with two large entrances only makes two kilos per person. The modern one person tents are sometimes more about individualism than actually keeping things lightweight.

Good luck on your trips! We are planning on doing a guidebook/map for bike touring in some close to Finland parts of Russia. That is if the funding works out…

Really useful article, thanks. I’ve been using a Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1 for about 5 years in all weathers, and it’s been great as a bikepacking tent. Now that I’m getting a bit long in the tooth, and less bendy, I’m thinking of upping size to a 2‑berth tent and the Copper Spur HV or Fly Creek HV are both looking like good options. Interesting to see Big Agnes has now got bikepacking specific versions (shorter poles and a few other features) — clearly a commercially viable niche these days!

hello Tom , is there a 4 seasons ticking all the boxes for cycling around the planet like the ‘hubba hubba nx’ 3 seasons does, considering you d have to camp in some colder areas .. like the MSR Access 2 maybe ? .. cheers and thanks for sharing !

Hi Tom, Thanks for all the info particularly keeping things up to date! I’m heading off for my first big cycle tour next week (solo around Europe) and after a lot of debate between taking my brothers ancient Eurohike 201 or whether to invest in something a bit lighter and better designed I have gone for the MSR Hubba Hubba NX2 . . big money for me but I’m very excited!

Hi Tom I’m using the MSR Hubba Hubba 2 persons for the last 6 years trips in south Australi Tasmania and Asia, it is good , little bit heavy, unfortunately somebody stepped on the poles last trip and 3 of ther were broken, do you know where I can get replacement

Have you tried an official MSR dealer locally?

I used the Big Agnes Spur 3man tent on my tandem cycling tour in southern Germany with my 8 year son July 2018. I was disappointed. I’ve also used it on a 5 day hike with my son (6) 2017 in April. 

Very easy to put up, freestanding and light and nice shape and room. But so not suitable to rain. Yes you stay dry, but it’s soggy fly cover is not good getting in and out of and with only single mesh walls cold. I didn’t take the tent liner and I should have. The tent floor is far too light for not having extra protection. Which definitely defeats to lightness. Even as a hiking tent, we hit rain and the tent requires extra effort to keep the fly away from the mesh inner to prevent dampness on your tent. This wasn’t so easy in sand and the fly needs to fit over the tent frame perfectly to be able to pull it away. I found in wet (hot/tropical) weather the tent you had to fiddle a bit with it. 

Further for a basic tour I also have two bike tube patches on the fly and on on the innner mesh. It is so light that it’s easy damaged. And it’s it’s own system of venting that mostly damaged it. The fly vents have a firm 10cm long “post” that keeps the vent open, but went you fold pack the tent you have to make sure you have these (2) horizontal to your tent roll otherwise they dig into the tent fabric. This is a pain to do. 

I guess too I was used to the toughness of the Macpac Apollo (no longer around). Yes super heavy at 3kg but that tent was amazing. Bought in 2006 and only just retired it for the Big Agnes. I’m glad to see it’s not on the top list of tents on this blog. 

Though you can tell I’m having to get a new Tent. I’m Australian so need a tent that is good for hot weather also.

Cracking article as ever, thanks for the in depth reviews.

I was wondering if you’d thought about the Mont Moondance 2? It’s only available in Aus but not too expensive to ship to the UK https://www.mont.com.au/moondance-2-tent-bracken

I’m deciding between that and the MSR Hubba NX2 to tackle Central and Southern America over a few years. To me the Mont Moondance appears to match up pretty well and has the added benefit of having 2 entrances, which I’m sure will allow a much appreciated through breeze when in hotter climates.

Would be interested to hear your thoughts and any pros/cons.

If I’m honest, at first glance this tent looks like a more or less straight copy of the MSR. Even the company logo looks like a close imitation!

The 2‑berth Hubba Hubba also has two entrances, by the way…

‘Nice article. Well-written, informative, honest–even “revealing.” LOL ‘Nice photographs, too!!

And not LITTERED with ads. Granted, you have links–but they can be quite useful. 

‘Read another review of tents just before this one and there was ad after ad after ad after ad. I wrote to them, pointing out that they perhaps HAD a lot of experience, and things to say, but … geez. If you’re going to review tents, review tents–right? And as I was composing my unsolicited comment, immediately to the right on the page was an ad for HOTHOUSES! What the heck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL

Anyway, ‘very informative article. Thank you!!! ~ Michael Morelia, Mexico Whidbey Island, WA Cajamarca, Peru

Thanks Michael. This blog has been ad-free for 12 years and counting. Glad you appreciate it 🙂

I’m soon to hit the big ol’ world for the first time on a bike! I have the Vango Banshee Pro 300 just for me as it’s spacey and allows me to sit up with clearance—I’m 6′1″. (The space is superb if I’m going to be staying for a while). The only issue worth a mention is that it’s not freestanding ie. it requires both ends to be tethered, (not good for camping inside a buddhist monastery Tom!). Other than that, it’s well-vented and a top quality tent for the price.

On a recent tour whilst using the Wild Country by Terra Nova Zepheros 1 and feeling claustrophobic in the extreme I met a guy using the Nigor Wickiup 3 with a half inner, what impressed me most about it was the sheer volume of living space, ease of setup & ventilation! So much so that I bought the tent myself, it’s a great tent, not free standing but otherwise, everything I need for a bike packing/touring tent, lightweight & weatherproof, great ventilation and so much livable space, especially for a longer tour. I use it with a lightweight groundsheet/footprint. https://www.tgomagazine.co.uk/gear-editors-column/nigor-half-size-innertent-wickiup‑3/

So many suggestions yet no mention of QUECHUA Quickhiker Ultralight from Decathlon :/

It’s very affordable (£110) and lighter (under 2kg) then pretty much anything mentioned here. It also has very favorable reviews (4.6/5) as of this writing.

Thanks Danny – I’ll include it in the next update!

Ayy, nice — thanks for responding Tom!

Interesting read, I have a tour (my first!) Planned this summer with my dad in France, contrary to this list we’ve gone with Robens challenger 2 tents, which come with their own dry bags!

I used to hike with a MountainHardwear light tent (the model doesn’t exist anymore)for 2 persons which weight is about 2 kg but recently bought a minima sl 1 from camp.usa https://www.camp-usa.com/outdoor/product/essential-equipment/minima-1-sl-tent/

Very happy with it and especially when packed. It’s a really small bag and its total weight is 1 kg.

I too prefer a smaller, solo tent, and I am surprised that the one I have been using for several years now never seems to get recognition. The Eureka Spitfire 1 weighs in at just over 3lbs, sets up and tears down quickly, is easy to get in and out of, has great ventilation, and offers a surprising amount of room… It’s unusual shape allows me (I am 6′5″) to stretch out for sleep–with room to store items above, below, and on both sides of me–and it affords ample space to sit up to get dressed in the morning. I have a brief review and picture of it on Amazon.com: Eureka Spitfire 1 Tent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SZ0ZLME/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_JXiWAbF3J52Q4

Check out Naturehike tents. Great value for money. Quality products. Tom, keep up the good work.✌?

Cheers Adam!

A key factor for me in choosing a tent was that the outer tent went up first, so doesn’t get the inner tent wet if you have to pitch in the rain, and can act as a shelter until the end if you have to pack up in the rain. This Luxe tent is the tent I use; it weighs 2kg, has a single pole and has lots of inside space. http://www.luxeoutdoor.com/eng/catalog-topic-gallery-view1.asp?id=1405&selfpath=/173

Thanks Mike! Hope you’re doing well!

I’ve used the Luxe Mini Peak II for several years. http://www.luxeoutdoor.com/eng/catalog-topic-gallery-view1.asp?id=1388&selfpath=/173 Weighs in at 1.6kg plus pole. I like it because - 1. Very light and packs down. 2. Tons of interior space for storage. 3. Lost of ventilation. This is important here in Australia where you are more likely to have hot weather. 4. Like Mike says it is useful to be able to put the outer up first. The tent goes up fast.

My touring is for 1 — 2 weeks at a time. I mainly stay in campgrounds. I would not be able to comment on possible expedition use. The tent is pegged out, not freestanding. I’ve been able to use it with 2 people by getting an additional inner. I’ve always used it with a tarp or other groundsheet.

I’d recommend buying a tent with two entrances for better views. A two person ten for solo rider and a four person tent for two or for the family. I know most people prefer green but I’ve noticed that a bright colour like orange works just as well. Enjoy your trip!

Hi Tom, great article and perfect timing for me personally. The suggestions and endorsements from readers have led to a dozen open tabs in seconds. Just throwing into the mix the Yellowstone Matterhorn 1 (1.5kg) very cheap, it cost me £30 and it served me well, if a little bit too small for my height, and used it across Europe and Scandinavia a couple of years ago.

A good piece, Tom! A bike touring tent is a really personal purchase which, like bikes, I think people tend to buy with undue haste when starting out, before working through what they need it to do for them.

A thought or two on tents for larger groups — specifically those with children!

In groups of multiple adults, more than two in a tent and you’re best off having multiple tents of that size. It’s inefficient to do otherwise, but with children you have very little choice but to go big.

We used the Vango Ark 400 when the children were smaller; this was a good price but the fly never quite seemed to be the same shape as the inner, and relied on the roominess of our child trailer to transport it. The cube, more so than the weight, became an issue, although it was no lightweight.

To say that “Terra Nova don’t feel the need to change the design of or discontinue perfectly good tents at random” isn’t *quite* true when it comes to bigger tents, because the Laser Space 5 which we use, had a frightfully short life. Sadly, I fear that critical mass for an ultra-light five berth tent simply doesn’t exist. The similarly shaped 4 berth version remains in the Wild Country range but is heavier and has two of the two-berth inners, rather than a three and a two.

We spent over a year trying to track a Laser Space 5 down, having been royally done over by a retailer during the clearance sale, but got lucky in the end. We can now get all five of us, and all our bikes and panniers at a push, under cover in a space most of us can stand up in — and pack the tent away into a single Ortlieb Sportpacker, excluding the poles. We use the Wild Country footprint and carry a tarp for the bikes in a second pannier, with space left in the top of both, and it all fits on the rack of a 20” wheeled trailerbike. There’s a few pictures of it in action, here: http://www.familybycycle.uk/2017/08/vatersay-barrabados.html

The downsides? Frontal area, and the consequential strain on guys in strong winds necessitating some meaty pegs for insurance, and a distinct lack of stealth — but if you have children you’re unlikely to be banking on that anyway 😉

There is a distinct shortage of choice for families looking for a seriously lightweight tent, and it’s a real shame that, expensive as it was, the Laser Space 5 has been discontinued. We know a family who actually make their own tents for touring — and we nearly did the same!

Good to hear someone else also using a Laser Space 5. We (2 adults + 3 kids) are not long back from a cycle tour of Burgundy where it again served us well.

I found out that Naturehike, a Chinese brand that you’ll find on Aliexpress as well as sometimes Amazon, kind of replicates the style of the MSR Hubba Hubba (my very first tent!) as it used to be with their so called Mongar. And the price is divided by three. Something to investigate for the newcomers, I guess.

Thanks Michael – several people mentioned that on Twitter recently when I put out a call for recommendations.

Thumbs up for the Nature Hike. Did a tour around the outer Hebrides last year, had everything from torrential rain to snow and gales. Never missed a beat and stayed dry. Well impressed for the money

Which Naturehike tent did you use exactly for your Hebrides trip? Was it Mongar?

great list! On our biketrip from Austria to Australia we also used the 1‑person MSR Hubba NX each. Great tent. I was satisfied with it during our whole journey of 11 months.

I’ve used a Hillberg Akto for several years whilst cycling & hill walking. It’s absolutely bomb proof & easy to put up that I find is great when conditions are bad & you need to get your tent up quickly. My version is quite old now as I inherited it from s friend when he bought a new tent. The only downside is it’s size & weight when compared to modern compact & lightweight tents on the market. But the benefits hugely outweigh these downsides. Great article as always from Tom, my go to site on bikes & bike equipment.

How much time did you spend in your tent on your janapar expedition? How important is Living space on such a long journey?

I am setting off soon for a few years and can’t decide on how big a tent I want.

As a beginner I found having a bit of living space was nice in the long run. A 2‑berth tent suited me fine. Nowadays I’m happy with a 1‑berth tent or just bivvying without a tent at all, but it took a few years to get to that point.

Great reviews thanks. I have used my Vango Blade 2 a few times. Long metal pole front to back. Loads of room for one with panniers. Inner up first but I have no experience otherwise. As someone else commented, their is not a lot of room between the inner and outer, and I too dislike the awkwardness of the pole even though you can unzip to go past it left or right. Did the job but had to be a strap-on-top of panniers job partly due to poles. Gelert solo tents are rare as hens’ teeth. The Banshee 200 is looking good to me!

The Solo one is sometimes sold under the Highlander brand. I also highly recommend the Wild Country Zephyros 1 (a 1.4kg Hilleburg Atko copy for <£100) and my fave, the Wild Country Aspect one for a good spacious 1 man 1.9kg tent.

Hello Tom, thank you for the guide and recommendations! We (my boyfriend and I) are setting off to Australia from Barcelona in December, going through the Balcans, Turkey, Iran, China, Thailand etc and would like to know what your opinion is on the MSR Hubba Hubba nx3? We are planning to camp all the way, although not sure if it will be ok in SE Asia yet but anyway.. Would this tent be good in case of cold nights and also good for hot climates? By they way I would like to comment on the Vango Banshee 300. We used this tent on our tour from Edinburgh to Barcelona(Via Holland, Belgium, France) and unfortunately after a month the tent poles started to crack. We did tape them along the way but it was really frustrating to set the tent up in a decent shape. Also the button to hold the tent doors rolled up came off pretty soon but we stitch that with no problems afterwards. The waterproof of the tent is very very good luckily! Also shape and color are great. This is our feedback so we wouldn’t rely on it for a long term use. I’m sure for short trips is great, or maybe we have just been unlucky.

The Hubba range is very good all-round. If there’s two of you I’d definitely look at the Mutha Hubba (3‑berth) – I’ve been using it with my other half since 2010 and we really appreciate a little extra space to unpack and make it more homely. I’ve heard only good reports about the updated NX version of the tents. HTH!

I have a vaude hogan ultra light. Its great for wild camping very quick to set up . Cycled cape york in Australia and could not leave the tent up in the the afternoon sun the poles break from the heat and the tension on the two shorter ons. Back in NZ the repaired them. Then i cycled from the Netherlands to Indonesia bringing repair kit for tent plus spare parts of pole plus sleeves. The poles are just to light or thin. Have to look ad something els #(:

Hi, i have been using a banshee 200 for the last 3 years as a one person tent. Bought on price match from Go-outdoors. Original one a seam on the inner parted on first outing & shop replaced (was not actually a big problem) since then i have used the tent for well over 100 nights in Scotland, England, Germany & a trip all the way down the Rhine. Seen some real bad all season weather & its held up & stayed dry. It has been a good performer & is very well suited to wild camping especially if you leave the panniers on the bike & use a cheap plastic groundsheet as a footprint. Now has a very minor seam leak — I have internet ordered some sealant that i hope will sort this out. For the price it is excellent value if I throw it away & buy another one tomorrow I will still have spent less money than on some other tents & also will have worried less about how much i spent on kit. I am sure there are other good there but the banshee is a very good low cost buy. It is not free standing but i see very few situations were I need this.

HiI, we did our first cycle tour in 1992 through Europe and used a Vaude three person tent. It weighed about 2.8kg. I still have it and still use it .I have had the seams resealed by a parachute maker here in Australia and have found its internal inner hanging system unbelievable. The best tent I have ever used for hiking or biking

Hi tom, great website, rich with relevant information. I begin a transcontinental tour from Alaska in June. I am using the hilleberg Allak. It’s a roomy 2 man tent at 5 lbs and looks solid. Do you have any record of experiences with it? I tested it in the Himalayas in snow and at ‑15 c. It was really comfortable. The zips worry me though.

Hi Tom, my favourite is the Hilleberg Soulo. I am using it now for an entire year and never had any problems with it. It has the perfect size, easy to pitch and enough space for all panniers. I am 172cm. Yes it is expensive but no regrets — I love it. Greetings Heike

Heike, saw your blog a while ago and wondered what your tent was, now i know! safe travelling!

I’ve got the Terra Nova Voyager too, it’s a great tent for bike camping tours. I bought it after following a discussion thread on http://www.livinghistory.co.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=36510 about what tents to buy. Made a great choice, if anyone else is looking then this comes recommended. One of my buddie has the Hilleberg Nallo and he’s pleased with that so also worth considering.

The Gelert Solo tent is available in Europe under the name Highlander Blackthorn 1 for about €40 from Amazon. Mine will be here in a few days. Thanks for the great post!

Thanks for the tip, John. Here’s the link to the tent on Amazon UK.

Terra Nova Photon Laser Elite on a 72 day tour round France plus a tour of Northern Spain. Very light at under a kilo and compact for sticking in a pannier bag. Like others I’m very unimpressed by TNs non response to an email I sent seeking advice on a repair issue. The tent served me well . For me weight is an issue especially in hilly regions.

Yes – Terra Nova haven’t responded to any of the emails I’ve sent them over the years with various enquiries. Seems they make good tents but aren’t particularly interested in the people who buy them…

I am a big fan of the good old tarp. I have a 10x12 Cuben fiber tarp that weighs around 16oz. TONS of room and more airy and roomy.

I’m probably not going with a tarp, although it recommended by many experienced light-weight affiicionados. But I am curious: What is your preferred method for setting it up, and what to you do about mosquitoes? Thanks.

Stumbled on the website, great article. 

Is use the terra nova tourer deluxe for touring. Comes in at around 2.5kg and is a massive 2 man tent, with a porch area. It’s an excellent tent, but too big for single expeditions. 

For solo efforts I have reverted to the terra nova Jupiter bivvy and a tarp. This is a new set up, so it will take me a bit of time to fully appreciate it.

I v got the Coleman Celsius Compact. Fantastic simplicity, One entrance, on the long side, and easy in and out. Very good ventilation, accessable from inside, and the colour is a decent brown and green. Freestanding , a must I think.

I’m using this one Tramp Sputnik (around 1 kilogram)

Definitely not the best choice: in a one layer tent all things are wet after the night.

I travel with success with Topeak BikCamper, 3 seasons only I would say not really suitable for winter. 

http://www.topeak.com/products/bike-tent/bikamper

I have had this tent the terra nova voyager for just under a year now mostly took out out in fair weather I decided to camp on top of Pen-y-fan 11/04/15 the wind condition’s were moderate to strong at the time’s but with this being rated a 4 season tent I was confident it would withstand the weather being thrown at it , but boy was I wrong the arch pole over the door kept being blown back onto the tent and me inside all night despite being pitched correctly the result in the morning was a broken pole and where the red pole sit’s over the two blue horizontal poles it had rubbed holes in both pole sleeves and the stitching inside was tearing through the inner tent where the pole sleeves attach, now I cannot insert the poles through the sleeves without them coming through the holes . I contacted terra nova about this they were useless after many emails and pictures of the damage were sent I had to send it off to them, 2 weeks for them to look at it and after they make a dissension another 2–3 weeks for them to repair it at my expense when it is clearly a design fault as there is no reinforcement protection where the poles overlap on the front of the tent but there is protection on the rear. Truly disappointed in there poor customer service I expected more form a British company I have lost faith in there product’s and will buy a Hilleberg for a better experience .

Superb article Tom , I use a Force Ten , Argon 200 for my present tour. Very lightweight and spacious, good in the wind too !

During summers 2013, I attended my first cycling tour, and guess what; I changed three tents in just 24 days. It was my first trip I had no idea and just fell for reviews. But, I have to admit that the search ended with TLDR. It’s a genuine dome that is durable and waterproof and it’s very light. Even a couple of hundred grams weighs more when you are on a one month hiking and camping trip.

What is TLDR ?

TLDR: too long; didn’t read

thank you !

Have been n the road for more than 2 and a half years now (so far have cycled Norway to Taiwan). We’re using the Hilleburg Nallo 3 GT which we highly recommend for couples on long-time cycling trips. It’s not perfect but having slept in it on this journey for more than 500 nights including in Mongolia, China, Pamir Highway we really can’t complain about it. In seriously high winds and prolonged rain it’s been fine. Yes, it’s expensive but on this journey it’s our home. I think there are few tents out there that would be so reliable over such a long time period. However, if your trip is just for a few months then it’s probably not worth forking out so much. http://www.slothsonwheels.blogspot.com

I am a huge fan of my Terra Nova Solar, which has travelled the world with me over the years, on the back of my motorbike and bicycle.A bit pricey but well made, its a roomy one person tent ( you can store your panniers inside), or a cosy 2 person tent with your luggage in the porch.

Damned cool, inspiring site, by the way. A friend just introduced me to it last night.

Have you tried or even heard of the Black Diamond Mega Mid Lite? It’s a HUGE 4‑person, center pole tent made of parachute material, so it stuffs down to about the size of a softball on steroids. Probably weighs about 2 and a half pounds. It has no floor, so not great in areas with snakes and creepy crawly things. If it is set up really taut, it sheds water well. I’ve used it in winter conditions and actually even built a small fire inside. It stand probably 5 and a half feet, so you can sort of stand up to pull on your pants. If creepy-crawlies are an issue — and most of my camping and touring is in the desert southwest of the U.S. where ants, spiders, scorpions and an occasional snake are issues — you can purchase the Bug Mid which is netting and integrated floor. The Mega Mid then just drapes over that. Total weight with floor and tent is 5 pounds, 10 ounces. The tent has a HUGE front opening that really lets the outdoors in. If you go with the no floor version, the tent pulls down to within about 3 inches of the ground. I don’t know why, but in my experience with this tent, mosquitoes never, ever fly in under the tent walls. I’m old and travel with a light weight backpacking chair which I can easily set up inside the tent. Personally I think that this is the best all round tent for most applications.

What I’ve seen so far looks very inspiring, have purchased the E‑book and look forward to reading it. Keep up the great work and stay safe.

Great article: looking at several of the cheaper tents now. I am doing a bike trip around Europe and want the best bang for my buck. Doesn’t everyone?

I use a very cheap gelert scout, 1,750 Kg, for 2people, but better for just one. Is goof for summer, letting the door open a little. With cold weather some moisture in the morning, never used in stormy weather or very fast wind. Very good for £ 15, but not for every kind of journey

Used the Wild Country Zephyros 1 last May for a east coast ride of 4 days, very light & plenty of room for panniers. A really great tent.

Backpacking Light Uk sell a budget version of the Hubba Hubba called the Luxe Habitat — not tried it myself but it looks pretty good — pitching video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAn967N5reA&list=UUGdXKgAS4MDFHO-O71E8C9g

Personnally I think the Micra by Salewa is impressive. Freestanding! Sturdy! small footprint! Steep walls! Green ( the older models are darkgreen.. ) Inner only possiblity! Some people might argue that 2.3 kg is too heavy, But I think, if you ’ re cycling it is not extreme, for one kilo less you might find something that is very flimsy ” fashion before function”. I like to think that you get a lot more Reliablity for the extra 500 gram.

I’ve just bought a 2pax, forest-green MSR HubbaHubba HP. I believe this particular range has been discontinued but I was lucky enough to come across one in a store here in Dublin, Éire. The name of the store is Great Outdoors, the tent cost e499.00, they ship internationally, and I think they have a couple left. I believe the footprint will be an extra e50 when they get them in next January. Happy hunting.

The Hubba HP range is still shipping in Europe, AFAIK. I’d cut a cheap plastic tarp to size rather than waste money on an expensive footprint…

There are a few similar models

The ‘Blow ‘by Hannah, a czech company The ‘Tordis’ by Ford Nansen, a polish company.

Nice green colours too, better then the Hubba, a bit too light. IMHO!

Excellent idea. Must give that a try.

Have finally managed to try out our Dragonfly 3XT with my husband. We really like the quick pitch and robust shape. Lots of room for storing panniers in the porch area, and plenty long enough for a tall man in the tent. For solo touring my husband tends to take a Quecha 2 man, much cheaper though not such a strong tent.

I use a Quechua Arpanaz 2 Fresh&Black — it’s shiny white on the outside, so no under the radar wild camping, but i love my sleep even on tour and enjoy the dark and cool inner. I replaced the fiber glass tent poles with aluminium, which brought weight and size down: less than 2kg, 38x13cm — for less than 100€ (45 tent, 20 aluminium tent poles, 10€ for repair tubes to reinforce the pole ends).

I’ve a somewhat spacious Vango Tempest 300 which is technically a 3 person tent but the pack size is a reasonable 46x16cm and 3.35kg and that fits in a pannier. It’s a bit big for solo use though you can get all your bags inside and if you remove the wheels, your bike even fits in the porch.

Having just carted it around the Pennines for the best part of a week though, I’m tempted with the smaller Zenith 100 or Blade 100, halving the weight and reducing the pack size (Zenith is 35x13!).

The Gelert Solo might have been possibly discontinued but there seems to be a few clones of it about on Amazon such as ‘Highlander Blackthorn 1’ and ‘Charlies Outdoor Leisure Beris 1 Man Camping Tent’ for sub 30 quid. I’d rather have a bit more space, especially for stashing away kit, so your panniers don’t go walkies in the night.

I picked up a Blade 100 for about £50 after a price match+discount in April and used it for a 23 day tour through France & Spain. It’s quite roomy for a 1 person tent but don’t pack it too full as the gap between the inner and fly isn’t great. You can get your pannier bags inside alongside your sleeping bag and 1 or 2 in the porch. 

The single pole gets in the way a bit at the door and if your pitch isn’t perfect bends into an S. It’s inner first which some people dislike (I don’t mind). But, another good cheap, light (1.75kg) tent from Vango.

Good to know about the Vango Blade 100 – thanks Shaun!

Can I just cast another vote for the humble, inexpensive and very compact Gelert Solo. But I’d like to make it clear to all — you won’t be holding a disco or having your mates round for a brew. It’s a low, narrow sleeping space .…… Which is all I personally feel I need on bike trips. Getting dressed inside requires agility, organisation and telescopic legs would be an advantage. Brilliant value though, and tucks away small. Perfectly good waterproofing too.

Having used the banshee 200 over the past few years and find this is more a 1 man tent with a bit of added room, used in all weathers have found it to be a fantastic tent, during the summer I generally take a bivy bag for short 1 / 2 night’s even if a spot of rain is expected, makes it easier for wild camping.

Another thumbs up for the Gelert Solo. Used it mainly for lightweight “bike-packing” and 1.5kg weight and squat pack size make it perfect. For longer tours, I highly recommend the “Wild Country Aspect 1” . It’s a pitch with outer, two hoop tunell tent at 1.9kg. It’s quite tall (but very stable), and makes for an “airy” camp if sitting down, plenty of headroom for moving about. The USP clincher for me is that the whole side zips open, and you can attach to nearby bike for a tarp-like big awning for cooking, lazing about. Also sleeping with the side open gives a nice panoramic view through the upper mesh of the side. Being Wild Country (a branch of Terra Nova), the quality is exceptional, and all for about £90 or less if you shop about. Can’t fault it, and for me the perfect solo touring tent. Think they are discontinuing them soon (and can’t find anything similar), so snap any residual stock for a bargain.

Got to be freestanding! I have a Coleman Boa, freestanding and long with 233 cm inner.. I remember once I put it up on a concrete surface under a roof near a footballfield in France. It was raining very, very hard. It was great to find this spot and then just put it up there. This could not have worked with a non freestanding tent. I like tents, I tried a hammock as well , nice, but only if the weather is good. Reason I like a tent is spiders, snakes and dogs. And musquitoes of course!

Very happy to recommend the Tarptent Scarp 1 . Kept me very comfortable for 15 months across Asia. It’s amazingly spacious for a one man with two porches and lofty head room (even for me at 6′ 2″ and a bit). Goes up in a flash, pitches taught, you can choose a mesh or solid inner and it all weighs just 1.35kg. Seems to balance quality, space and weight perfectly and what’s more you don’t have to take out a mortgage to get one.

I’ve just found this website and I am glued to it! A lot of what it have read so far, and the ‘just do it’ attitude is truly inspiring. Most of what I have read online seems to involve a lot of overthinking and overanalysing so this approach is extremely refreshing. Keep up the good work.

Everyone knows your confessed love for the discontinued Hubba Hubba, but you used the 1 man version for your American trip right — so why do you recommend the bigger/heavier version? 

I’ve just got a Seedhouse SL1 for £100, cheap price but it doesn’t have the split pole design of the SL2 (or indeed the Hubba range). So it’s freestanding ability is a little flawed.

These aren’t personal recommendations, they’re my interpretations of the results of an extensive survey. Most solo tourers seem to prefer 2‑person tents for the extra living space. Personally, I’m happy with a minimal 1‑person tent nowadays, but that’s just my preference.

Love my Big Agnes Seedhouse SL1. Has coped with some “character building” weather so far despite only being a 3 season tent, packs down nice’n’small and is a smidge over a kilo (some stripped down variations go lighter). Not sure what you mean by no ‘split pole’ — d’you mean the sort of Y‑shape arrangement? If so, mine does have that, perhaps there are older versions which don’t?

I have spent years in my Nallo 3Gt and I’ll likely have it on my rear rack the next time I hit the open road for an extended period of time; however, I have recently switched over to a bivy sack for overnight to weeklong trips. Its the best way to set up and take down camp in a hurry, which is essential when free camping where maybe you shouldn’t be!

Yes, agreed. Plus, being inside a tent is often quite rubbish!

Nice compilation Tom! I would vote for the Gelert Solo actually. I have been looking around for an affordable lightweight tent before hitting the road for a month and have been quite happy with the choice. I didn’t encounter any harsh conditions though, but it seems to be a fairly durable tent indeed.

I just picked up a Hilleberg Unna — will be testing on my next trip.

I used the Terra Nova Voyager XL 2 on a recent tour of Europe. It lasted about a week and the tents poles broke in a mild storm. Customer service didnt answer my emails, and I thought the service was shocking. It’s a shame because it seems they make really good tents, but I got a duff one. That is when customer service is important. Sadly they are infamous for poor service. Ended up buying a generic tent for a quarter of the price and it served me well.

That’s a shame, as the tent itself comes highly recommended.

MacPac Minaret. We did tones of bike touring with it and it was fantastic. The last one held well for 12 years now we’ve got a new one!

Thanks — this was a common recommendation from couples in NZ and Oz, as well as their Citadel .

Try the Macpac microlight as well. Just finished a couple of weeks round inner Hebrides. Mixture of sun and storms. Didn’t leak a drop. Great gear.

I have both a Macpac Mineret and a Tarptent DW moment. I love both of them. The Mineret is perfect for two, and sometimes I take it on solo tours, but at 3.2kg (15 years old and still bomb proof), it borders on extravagant. The tarptent, is half the weight, and super simple to put up, freestanding, and brilliantly ventilated. But I’m not sold on the tricky sideways entry in pouring rain, and the small head space when lying down (I am 6′3″). So I think my dream tent would be a blend of the two. Mineret for the front entry, Tarptent internal battens in a triangle on the back end. Of course there is also the Tarptent double-moment (slightly bigger), if I had to chose just one more tent, that would be it.

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The 10 Best Tents For Cycle Touring In 2024

Looking to find out which are the best tents for cycle touring in 2024? You’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll be showcasing 10 of the most popular and best-loved options, with information on what makes them so great for touring, their weight, price and more.

What tent do I use for cycle touring? I personally use the Quechua Quickhiker Ultralight 2 Tent. It’s super lightweight, quick to pitch and take down, and just an all-around great tent. Sadly, this tent now seems to be discontinued, although the Forclaz Ultralight 2-Person Tunnel Tent is almost identical.

The 10 best tents for cycle touring

Here’s the lowdown on the best tents for cycle touring, including tunnel tents, dome tents and a bivvy-style model.

Vango Nevis 200 (£155)

While the Vango Nevis 200 may not be the lightest tent on this list, it is incredible value for money at just £140. If you’re new to cycle touring and don’t want to spend a fortune on gear, you can’t go too far wrong with this. It’s waterproof, has good ventilation, and would even make a decent wild camping companion, thanks to its low profile and green colour scheme.

Weight:  2.02kg

✔ Great budget option ✔ Good for stealthy wild camping ✔ Easy to pitch and take down

Forclaz Ultralight 2 Person Tunnel Tent (£219.99)

The Forclaz Ultralight 2 Person Tunnel Tent is almost identical to my trusty Quechua Quickhiker, which is why I’m recommending it here. The 1-pole design makes it quick and easy to pitch, plus it’s lightweight and packs up reasonably small. And, at just £220, it’s pretty decent value for money. The 2-berth version of this is a little claustrophobic for 2 people, but it’s plenty spacious for a solo cyclist.

✔ Good budget option ✔ 1 pole design for speedy pitching ✔ Small and compact

Weight: 1.75kg

Winterial Single Person Bivvy Tent (£135)

The Winterial Single Person Bivvy Tent is a real bikepacking tent. Ideal for ultralight solo cyclists, this glorified bivvy bag is super lightweight and low on fuss. Its low profile and forest green colouring make it ideal for stealthy wild camping as it blends nicely into the environment. It’s super easy to set up, taking less than 5 minutes — simply install the two aluminium poles and stake down the corners of the tent. The Winterial Single Person Bivvy Tent is good for 3 seasons, so it will see you comfortably on cycle tours from spring to autumn.

✔ Excellent for stealthy wild camping ✔ Quick to pitch ✔ Ultra lightweight

Weight: 1.31kg

Alpkit Ordos 2 (£219.99)

The Ordos 2 is Alpkit’s lightest 2-person tent, packing down to just 1.4kg. It has collapsible poles so it packs up small and compact — about the size of a 1.5-litre bottle — making it easy to secure to your bike’s handlebars. The central ridgeline design creates a stable yet spacious shelter, offering maximum living space while maintaining its low weight. Plus, the tent has a vestibule for storing luggage, as well as hang loops and pockets in the interior for further storage.

✔ Ultra lightweight ✔ Handle-bar friendly pack size ✔ Spacious with vestibules and interior pockets for storage

Weight: 1.4 kg

Vaude Lizard (€650)

At just 1.13kg, the Vaude Lizard is seriously light. This, coupled with its low profile and green colour scheme, makes it ideal for stealth camping. Despite the compact size and featherweight design, the tent is fully waterproof and rated for three-season use.

✔ Ultra lightweight ✔ Great for stealthy wild camping ✔ Excellent build quality

Weight: 1.13 kg

MEC Spark 2.0 (CA$474.95)

The Spark 2.0 is a dome tent from Canadian outdoor brand MEC. Set up is fast and easy, thanks to the thoughtful design and clear colour coding. It balances weight and size well, providing room for two cyclists, or ample room for a solo rider. And, with two vestibules, there’s plenty of room for luggage storage.

The Spark is also great value for money: it’s designed in-house by Canada’s largest gear co-op, so is quite a bit cheaper than similar tents. You’ll also be pleased to know that this tent is rated for three-season use and holds up impressively well in heavy rain.

Weight: 1.75 kg

✔ Great value for money ✔ Spacious with vestibules and interior pockets for storage ✔ Quick and easy to pitch, thanks to clear colour coding

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepack ($579.95)

Given the fast-growing popularity of bikepacking, it’s not surprising to see bikepacking-specific tents start to pop up. The Copper Spur HV UL2 Bikepack from US brand Big Agnes is one such tent, designed to have a handlebar-friendly pack size and a low weight.

The Copper Spur offers a good balance between weight and size, making it a comfortable cycle touring tent for two people. It has two doors and vestibules, plenty of headroom to sit up, and interior pockets for storage. In addition to its spacious interior, it’s also easy to pitch and take down — an all-around great tent.

✔ Specifically designed for cycle tourists and bikepackers ✔ Spacious with vestibules and interior pockets for storage ✔ Handle-bar friendly pack size

Weight: 1.59 kg

Terra Nova Laser Compact 2 (£600)

Another great option for bikepackers and wild campers, the Terra Nova Laser Compact 2 has a low profile and a dark green colour scheme. It’s not cheap at £600, but it’s been tried and tested and has even won awards. It’s safe to say that the Laser Compact 2 will be a long-lasting, reliable touring companion.

The tent pitches all-in-one, with the flysheet and inner attached, making it quick and easy to pitch. With a low weight and a small pack size of 30x15cm, the Laser Compact 2 is ideally sized for a handlebar bag. Despite its low weight and small size, it’s rated for three-season use and has two porches for storing gear. It will be quite cosy for two cyclists but plenty spacious for a solo rider.

✔ Great for stealthy wild camping ✔ Handle-bar friendly pack size ✔ Excellent build quality

MSR Hubba Hubba NX (£540)

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX is perhaps the most recommended series of tents among cycle tourists. It’s lightweight, it packs up small, it’s spacious with plenty of headroom and it has ample vestibule space for storing luggage. On top of that, the tent is very durable, with high-quality weatherproofing, good ventilation, and overall great build quality. What more could a cycle tourist want? The 2-berth version will likely be the model of choice for most cyclists, while the 1-berth model will suit ultralight cyclists and the 3-berth for a pair of riders.

✔ One of the most recommend tents among cycle tourists ✔ Spacious with a vestibule for storing luggage ✔ Excellent build quality

Weight: 1.72 kg

MSR Elixir 2 (£340)

While the above MSR Hubba Hubba NX is one of the very best tents for cycle touring, the £515 price point might not suit everyone’s budget. This is where the MSR Elixir 2 comes in. The Elixir is also a high-quality MSR tent, and the £200 saving is likely worth it to those who aren’t too bothered about saving on weight. At 2.77kg, it’s the heaviest tent on this list, but it doesn’t sacrifice on quality or durability.

✔ Cheaper alternative to the much-loved Hubba Hubba NX ✔ Great build quality ✔ Spacious with a vestibule for storing luggage

Weight: 2.77 kg

More great tents for cycle touring

Not enough choice in my list above? Here are some more options to look into:

• OEX Salamanda Bivi Tent
• Wild Country Zephyros Compact 2
• REI Co-op Quarter Dome 2
• Nemo Hornet 2P
• Sierra Designs Meteor 3000
• Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2
• Vango F10 Hydrogen Air Tent

Which tent(s) have you enjoyed using on cycle tours? Let me know in the comments below!

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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I do cycling camping and touring, and bought a Marmot Tungsten 2 tent about 9 years ago just before Covid, it didn’t get used much till afterwards. The tent was on sale for $149, it seems to have high reviews with 5 stars from most places and 4 from Amazon. I don’t know a lot about tents, I bought it because the reviews were high and the price was right was my motivation for buying it! While it is a 2 person tent, it is only idea for 1, the weight is higher than I would prefer but it kept my wallet heavier too.

Really helpful article. I currently have a Stratospire Li by Tarptent. Pricey but super light. I have used it with my spouse and individually. I am 5’10” and partner is 5’4”. Vestibule on both sides as well as doors on both. Great for storing gear out of the weather if needed.

Thanks for the recommendation Kenn, sounds like a good tent!

Why there is no word for Nemo tents. I feel Osmo by them is worthy of being in the list. Another one is by Druston,(Hope spelled it correct). They are making extremely light weight and durable tents.

Yes I’ve heard a lot of good things about Nemo! Thanks for mentioning them.

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Best bikepacking tents: overnight shelters for all weathers

Get out for a comfortable overnight adventure on your bike with the best bikepacking tents

The best bikepacking tents should provide adequate shelter in whatever conditions you find yourself in, without taking up too much precious space or weighing you down.

There are many different approaches to bikepacking sleeping systems but the humble tent is one that provides significantly more protection from rain, wind, insects, and other outdoor elements than the rest. While the thought of sleeping out under nothing but a vast canopy of stars might fill us with wanderlust, the reality is that weather happens. 

Choosing the best bikepacking tent should guarantee the best possible night's sleep out in the wilderness, however, if your tent is poorly designed, badly made, or too heavy and bulky, it’s going to have a serious impact on your bikepacking enjoyment.

Luckily tents have been getting progressively smaller, lighter and, with the increasing popularity of bikepacking, better tailored to be transported as part of an ultra-light bikepacking setup. There are now a number of tents that either consider or are specifically designed to meet the needs of bikepackers, including features such as shorter pack sizes and added storage space for things like helmets. Keep reading for our pick of the best bikepacking tents, or skip to the bottom of this guide for advice on what to look for when picking a tent.

Jump to: How to choose the best bikepacking tent

• What is bikepacking? The ultimate guide
• Which bike is best for bikepacking?

Best bikepacking tent

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We\'ll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Bikepack Solution Dye

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

We have mostly focused on one-person tents as these are the smallest and lightest however for riders who adventure in pairs or just want a little more living space to spread out, the Tiger Wall UL2 is one of the best options. The double vestibule makes it easier to get in and out for both occupants or gives more pitching flexibility if being used by a single person. If the company of another person isn’t enough and you prefer a crowd, Big Agnes also does a three-person version of the Tiger Wall.

Big Agnes uses a Shortstik Poleset to help keep pack size down and the whole tent packs up into a compression sack that features daisy chain webbing loops for attaching to handlebars, frames or racks with the poles lashed to the outside of the stuff sack.

Gear organization is easy as the Tiger Wall not only has the vestibules but also internal pockets and helmet-specific storage too so your gear should be easy to organize and out the way once you are in camp mode.

Finally, Big Agnes uses its new Solution-dyed fabric for the Tiger Wall which it says is not only better for the environment as it uses 80 per cent less energy, 80 perc ent fewer chemicals and 50 per cent less water to produce, but is also more durable and UV resistant.

Terra Nova Laser Pulse 1

Terra Nova is known for making ultra-lightweight kit and the Laser Pulse 1 is the lightest tent on our list. If the staggering 545g weight, with an equally impressive pack size, still seems a bit heavy, Terra Nova does an Ultra version which is claimed to be the lightest tent in the world at just 490g. That 55g saving does come at a serious premium so for most riders the regular Laser Pulse 1 is probably light enough.

Despite its light weight the Laser Pulse is still big enough to almost sit up in and has a little porch space to store a few bags and your shoes. Pitching is straightforward too and the outer and inner can be erected together, so if it's pouring with rain you will be able to quickly get set up and under shelter. The inner and outer can also be pitched separately too should you only want to use part of the tent.

Sea to Summit Alto TR1

Sea to Summit has clearly spent a lot of time thinking about the features that are important to making a tent that is extremely user-friendly. For a start, thanks to the TensionRidge cross beam the tent has one of the best living areas as the walls are steeper, providing more shoulder and head space when sitting up. This also benefits  entering and exiting the tent as the doors are taller as well as allowing the front to be completely opened up. The TensionRidge isn’t just structural either, as Sea to Summit has built exit vents around the top of the tent to give better air circulation and improve condensation management.

The Alto can be erected rainfly first and the DAC poles are all color-coded with the aluminum machined Quick-Connect pole feet for simple setup. Sea to Summit's Quick-Connect system uses these special clips to simply hold the inner tent or tent footprint to the flysheet outer layer. 

Attention to detail is superb even down to the stuff sack design. The tent itself packs into three separate bags which can either be linked together or split into three parts for more versatile packing arrangements. Once the tent is set up, the stuff sacks clip into the inside of the tent for internal storage and the pole bag can be turned into a diffusing overhead light source when paired with a head torch for even illumination.

Vango F10 Hydrogen Air Tent

For bikepackers the most inconvenient part of a tent is the poles. Without a large backpack or the option of substituting your walking poles to the tent structure, they have to be short enough to fit in a frame bag or between the handlebars. However what if you just got rid of the poles entirely? Well, that is exactly what Vango has done with the F10 Hydrogen Air. By swapping out rigid poles for an inflatable pole Vango has created a tent that packs down into a staggeringly small 1L stuff sack. For comparison, that's about as small as some bivy bags.

Going poleless has other advantages as well. The F10 Hydrogen Air can be set up extremely quickly as, despite being a double-wall tent, the inner and outer are attached so it's just a case of picking your sleeping spot, laying the tent out, pump up the AirBeam pole and stake it out. While your bike pump will likely be your go-to for inflation, Vango says you can also use a CO2 canister. When it comes to breaking camp the tent can just be deflated, unpegged and stuffed away quickly. 

Space is on par with other low profile one-person tents and the side entrance with inner mesh door opens out wide making it easier to access the tent. In terms of weatherproofing and durability, Vango is one of the most recognized tent manufacturers around so it should last for many years to come.

Alpkit Aeronaut 1

Another inflatable tent, the Alpkit Aeronaut follows the same recipe as the Vango F10 using an inflated tube as the main method of holding the shape of the tent. The main difference between the two is price, Alpkit is well known for its very competitive pricing and the Aeronaut retails for considerably less than the Vango. This does come at a compromise though, as the weight plus stowed volume is noticeably larger. It still packs down relatively small, so for space-conscious bikepackers looking for a tent on a budget, the Aeronaut is a great option.

The inner and outer are connected to make pitching quick and simple by just inflating the pole sleeve using the Schrader valve and pegging the tent out. Last thing you want is a deflation through the night and Alpkit provides a puncture repair kit with the tent should you spring a leak. A wide side entrance door makes easy work of entry, exit and general campsite hanging out.

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1

Big Agnes is quickly cornering the market as one the the main players when it comes to bikepacking tents. This is in part thanks to the Fly Creek range which is becoming a classic for those tackling multi day adventures by bike and looking for a balance in durability, pack size and features. The HV is the updated version of the Fly Creek UL1 and takes all the features that were so popular with the original while tweaking the structure to provide improved liveable space. A more square profile makes the living space feel larger without actually increasing square footage, and reworked mounting points on the inner help hold the tent more tightly. 

It gets the same beefed-up stuff sack as the Big Agnes Tiger Wall which can be mounted directly to the bike. You also get internal shelves and pockets for your gear as well to keep everything dry. 

While the Fly Creek HV UL1 is more than competitive in weight and pack size, Big Agnes does a ‘crazylight’ version for those who want to save even more grams. It’s almost half the weight although over double the cost and does not pack down as small due to the folded length of the carbon Easton poles.

MSR Carbon Reflex 1

MSR is another big name in the outdoor equipment world and its Carbon Reflex 1 tent is an ultralight option that's great for bikepacking. Despite being a fully featured tent it still packs away small thanks to the lightweight fabric of the rainfly sheet and the Easton Carbon poles. The inner is mostly made from mesh, so ventilation and moisture management is great, although be careful when packing as it's easy to snag and damage the mesh material. Like some of the other tents here the use of mesh on the inner and ability to be pitched in separate parts means, weather permitting, you can opt to sleep without the outer and enjoy the stars.

The MSR has a narrow pitch size so it's great if you often find yourself struggling for space. Despite its small footprint there is a good amount of vestibule space for shoes and bags to be brought under cover. MSR has chosen to make the vestibule zipper-less, instead choosing two strips of Velcro for closure to save overall weight and space. While this is easy to use, it's worth considering your pitching position in case a gust of wind blows it open in the middle of the night.

Zpacks Hexamid Solo Tent

While Terra Nova has the world record for the lightest tent, Zpacks' Hexamid Solo tent’s modular design is giving it serious competition. In its lightest format the Hexamid is a staggering 294g although once you add the Zpacks bathtub ground sheet and required 48 inch pole the weight will be around 480g. This is mostly down to the Dyneema fabric which is incredibly strong and lightweight and is used in a single wall design, the bathtub groundsheet is also Dyneema although twice as thick as the canopy to ward off punctures from below. Inside the tent there is a fully enclosed insect screen to keep the bugs out.

As we all know lightweight always comes at the cost of features and there are a few quirks with the Hexamid Solo you should be aware of. Firstly and unsurprisingly there is no storage other than the vestibule which does not exactly get close to the ground. Number two is that the Dyneema fabric is a little translucent, that means during the day people will be able to see your silhouette moving about inside and you will be able to see outlines of the outside, Zpacks is a glass-half-full brand describing it as “a more immersed outdoor experience” but light sleepers might want to bring a sleeping mask. 

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How to choose the best bikepacking tent

1. Why choose a tent?

For some, the idea of choosing a tent means adding unnecessary weight and packing complications to the bike. However, these days tents have dropped a lot of weight and greatly reduced pack size so if you are looking for some extra comfort it might only cost you 100g over a tarp and bivy setup.

Where a tent excels is that they can be free-standing for a simpler setup and provide far more protection from the elements than a tarp could, greatly increasing your chances of getting a good night’s sleep and feeling refreshed for the next day ahead. Ultimately bikepacking, whether it's just for fun or at the pointy end of an ultra-endurance race is a game of attrition, a guarantee of a reliable night’s sleep could easily be worth the little extra weight to ultimately ride faster or have more fun.

2. Different types of tent

Tents are usually broken up into a few different styles: freestanding, semi-freestanding and non-freestanding. The difference between these three types of tent comes down to how they are erected. Freestanding tents don’t require pegging out as the poles hold the tent’s shape, this means you can build it and then move it easily to find the perfect sleeping spot. Generally, a freestanding tent will have a double-wall construction, meaning there is a separate rain sheet, although single-wall versions do exist. Freestanding double-wall tents usually provide better protection from the rain and wind and offer more ventilation too. Semi-freestanding tents use the poles for a portion of the structure with additional sections needing to be pegged out to achieve the full tent sizes. True non-freestanding tent designs are less common for bikepacking as they are designed with hiking in mind and use hiking poles as part of the structure although they do exist using short auxiliary poles. The advantage of non- or semi-freestanding tents is a lower pack size and weight.

3. Pack size

While plenty of tents on the market meet the weight and weather protection requirements, bikepacking has a unique limitation that will rule out a large number of ultra-light tents. Pack size of a tent needs to be compatible with your best bikepacking bag setup. If you are using drop bars or storing the poles in a frame bag, double-check that the packed tent and poles will actually fit. It’s also worth erecting the tent before you embark on your first trip as it will allow you to learn how to put it up and most importantly, how to put it all away again.

4. Comfort levels

In bikepacking, there are two things that very rarely go hand in hand, comfort and lightweight. Ultimately the fewer creature comforts, features and space your tent has, the lighter it is going to be. For some, the space to sit up in your tent or easily get out the door is well worth the extra weight while others are just wanting a lightweight shelter to crawl inside for 40 winks. Think about the time you spend at camp, if having a semi-liveable area will make your trip more pleasurable it’s probably worth it. If your sleeping time is counted in minutes rather than hours, being able to read a book in your sleeping bag is not a concern.

It’s worth noting that while a tent says that it comfortably fits one human being, that isn’t always the case. While petite bikepackers probably won’t have any problems it can be an issue even for relatively average-sized people, so it’s worth double-checking the floor dimensions of any tent you are thinking of buying to make sure you are getting the amount of space that you expect. 

5. What's included?

Some tent companies aren't just deceiving when it comes to real estate, so make sure you check what is actually included with the tent and confirm whether the stated weights and pack sizes actually include all the items that you need for camping. Otherwise, you won't be able to make a realistic comparison between the tents that you are interested in. While all the main parts of a tent will be included, like outer and inner layers, some brands don’t include items like pegs and poles, and they rarely come with a groundsheet included. Whether you need to purchase a groundsheet very much depends on the tent’s material and the ground that you are camping on.

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Graham is all about riding bikes off-road. With almost 20 years of riding experience, he has dabbled in downhill, enduro, and gravel racing. Not afraid of a challenge, Graham has embraced bikepacking over the last few years and likes nothing more than strapping some bags to his bike and covering big miles to explore Scotland's wildernesses. When he isn’t shredding the gnar in the Tweed Valley, sleeping in bushes, or tinkering with bikes, he is writing tech reviews for  Bike Perfec t.

Rides: Cotic SolarisMax, Stooge MK4, 24 Bicycles Le Toy 3, Surly Steamroller

Height: 177cm

Weight: 71kg

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Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Best Bikepacking Tents For Your Next Adventure

Are you planning a bikepacking adventure and in need of a reliable and comfortable tent? Look no further! In this article, we will be showcasing the top 10 bikepacking tents on the market. From ultralight options to spacious designs, there is a tent on this list for every type of bikepacker.

We’ve done the research and rounded up the best of the best, so you can focus on hitting the trails with confidence and comfort. Whether you are a seasoned bikepacker or new to the game, these tents are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So grab your helmet and saddle up, because it’s time to hit the trails with one of these top-rated bikepacking tents.

When considering a tent for your next bike adventure. There are some things worth considering before you jump right in a buy just any tent. Ideally serving your personal preferences and needs, depending on your type of adventure.

How long are you travelling for? Are you going on a multi-year trip? You might need a spacious tent to store all your gear and high quality to last the test of time. The great thing about bikepacking tents is that they offer some subtle differences from standard tents. With vestibule storage space for all your gear, mounting straps on the tent to hang up your helmet for the night, while also offering a lightweight solution and smaller packed size for storing on the bike.

Below is the criteria I go through with each tent to compare them and see which one stacks up on top!

What to look for in a bikepacking tent

• Pitch instantly
• Size (1 person, 2 person or 3 person)
• Stay up in heavy winds
• Suited for all climates
• Space to live
• Room for all of your luggage
• Even vestibules or gear shed
• Possibility for taking in amazing views
• Keep you dry from wet weather
• Dry out quickly
• Can pack wet
• Last for along time
• Pitch anywhere
• Number of entrances
• Ventilation
• Stealthiness and Colour
• Ground sheet
• Packed Size

What types of tents are suited for bikepacking?

When looking at a tent for bikepacking the weight is one of the more important factors. You need something that is going to be light enough, it is becoming easier and easier nowadays with companies making tents suited for this ultralight style of travel.

The packed volume of the tent is another thing that makes a tent suitable for bikepacking. Depending on the bikepacking bags you have. Generally, a tent is stored in the front handlebar bag on a normal bikepacking setup. Getting a tent that fits in these dry bags with extra room to store other gear is ideal. Most bikepacking-specific tents offer a stuff sack which easily fastens to your bike.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Bikepack

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL is ultralight, with the 1-person weighing 2 lbs. 13 oz (1.28 kg) or the 2-person option weighing 3 lbs. 8 oz (1.59 kg). For that little weight increase, you are worth getting the larger tent, perfect for solo trips and gear storage. It has a high-volume design that provides plenty of headroom and space for gear storage. The tent is also easy to set up, with a single hubbed pole structure and color-coded setup. Quality build with more than enough storage (inside pockets and vestibules)

It’s surprisingly durable for how delicate the material appears. Holding up well in rain, as the rainfly will soak, but the inside will stay dry (unless there’s high wind, then droplets will flick). But super packable for bikepacking thanks to the shorter poles. And comes with a compression stuff-sack with daisy-chain webbing that allows for multiple bike attachment configurations. Check Price

REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL1

This tent is another ultralight option that is great for bikepacking weighing in at 2 lbs. 6 oz which is slightly lighter than the Big Agnes above. It is however discontinued so it won’t be sticking around for long. Featuring a single-pole design that is easy to set up and a unique shape that provides plenty of headroom and interior space. The tent also has a waterproof rainfly and is made with durable materials.

Designed for solo backpackers, would want to pack light but not sacrifice on a comfortable night’s sleep. It is a semi-free standing tent. But for the price , it’s amazing value.

Nemo Hornet Elite OSMO Ultralight

This tent is another ultralight option that is perfect for bikepacking. Featuring the all-new OSMO™ fabric. Delivering 4x better water repellency and 3x less stretch when wet, our new OSMO tent fabric is also made from 100% recycled yarns. The tent has a single-pole structure and a waterproof rainfly, as well as a unique shape that provides plenty of interior space and headroom. The tent is also made of durable materials and has high-quality construction.

Nightlight Pockets turn your headlamp into a tent lantern while removing blue light and casting an even glow. The 1-person model weighs 1 lb 13 oz / 812 grams and the 2-person 2 lb 1 oz / 935 g.

Sea To Summit Telos Bikepacking TR2

Sea to Summit has taken their award-winning Telos TR2 tent and made some improvements to better suit those looking to explore by bike while having somewhere comfortable to sleep. Equipping the tent with a pole set, with shorter pole segments. The tent comes ready to mount on your bike with a bike-specific storage system. Packing into two 420D waterproof and durable eVent Dry Sacks with Stretch-Loc Straps for reliable mounting.

A free-standing tent weighing 1.9 kg or 4.18 pounds which is a little on the heavier side. Ideal for bicycle touring as it takes up two fork bags when stored on the bike. You might have to compromise on your bikepacking setup to make it work. Check Price

Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel 3 Bikepack Tent

Looking for a hotel on wheels? This has to be the most comfort you can experience on a bikepacking trip. Even garage space for the bikes? The Blacktail Hotel 3 Bikepack by Big Agnes is a 3-season, free-standing tent with extended vestibules, offering two vestibules with 28ft²/ 9ft² or 2.6m²/ 0.8m² in space.

A bit of a heavier tent than most others in this list at almost twice the weight comparatively, at 7 lbs. 6 oz (3.35 kg). But that’s expected for a larger tent. As they say, it’s light enough for the backcountry and strong enough for the front country.

Featuring those short 12″ Shortstik Pole set for easy storage on handlebars, in bike bags or panniers. Including most other bikepacking features available in the Big Agnes bikepack tent range. You also get maximized storage options with an oversized ceiling pocket and multiple interior loops for use with gear lofts, and accessories.

Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack Tent

A ten made specifically for bikepacking. Comes with a durable diamond ripstop roll-top stuff sack featuring reinforcements and tie-down straps perfect for fastening to your bike. It can attach to your handlebars, under the seat, to any rack, or inside the frame. The poles are also made of shortened segments that keep the packed size small. The poles are also color coded with matching webbing for an intuitive set up.

The tent itself uses premium materials and a tapered floor plan to save weight without sacrificing livable space. A large vestibule with our new Landing Zone™ storage tub offers plenty of gear organization and space to put riding gear out of the mud. Weighing 3 lb 8 oz / 1.6 kg for the 2-person model.

Naturehike Cloud-Up 2

Looking for a tent that doesn’t break the bank? Super affordable while still backed up with quality and positive user experiences in the field. Including, mesh interior pockets, fairly durable rip-stop fabric materials, and a full-coverage rainfly, in a firm lightweight structure (1.7 kg or 3.75 pounds) that holds up well in windy conditions. But the price is really where this tent shines,  check the price.

MSR Carbon Reflex

This tent is designed specifically for bikepackers, with a lightweight and packable design that is easy to carry on your bike. It has a single-pole structure and a waterproof rainfly, as well as plenty of ventilation to keep you comfortable in any weather.

The lightest full-protection, solo tent in the MSR lineup at 1 lb. 13 oz (822 grams) with double wall protection and maximum interior space. a simple, nonfreestanding design featuring a weight-saving, zipper-free vestibule. If you want to go even lighter weight in mild weather, leave the tent body behind and use the rainfly and footprint (sold separately) with the poles and stakes.

This tent does have some drawbacks as some users have complained about the pole failing multiple times and the hood ripping. Not the highest recommended tent in the list but worth mentioning.

Overall, these are some of the best bikepacking tents on the market. Whether you are looking for an ultralight option or a tent with plenty of interior space and headroom, there is a tent on this list that will meet your needs.

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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Really Big Bike Ride

The Best Bikepacking and Bicycle Touring Tents And How To Choose One

Choosing the right tent can make or break a cycle touring or bikepacking trip.

Bikepacking tents are a relatively new concept. Just a few years ago, this uber-niche category of tent didn’t exist.

Even now, cycle touring is still a relatively niche activity.  However, the recent resurgence of interest under the guise of bikepacking has exploded the marketing of lightweight, bike-based kit.

Due to this influx of popularity, there are now specific bikepacking and bicycle touring tents available on the market.

Which makes selecting the best bikepacking tent for cycle touring all the more subjective. More choice = more confusion.

What are the important characteristics of a bikepacking or cycle touring tent?

To help answer this question I’ve decided to offer guiding principles for choosing the best bikepacking tent based on my experiences cycle touring in over 40 countries.

What’s the difference between a tent for hiking and camping and a cycle touring or bikepacking tent?

Before we jump into the best tents for bikepacking and cycle touring, it’s important to understand the industries from which we choose a tent. Tents are made for many specialist reasons and hiking is a popular one.

The best tent for hiking would be super lightweight and portable. Since a hiking tent is carried by one or two people in a backpack, weight is a major consideration.

Bikepacking tents vs tent for hiking

That may not necessarily be the same criteria for cycle touring. Since you have a bicycle to bear the load you may prefer the extra space of a larger tent.

A tent for climbing on the other hand would be designed for strength and durability. Pitching a tent on the side of a mountain requires additional ruggedness and toughness. Arguably, the best tent pegs money can buy would come in handy too.

Essential questions to ask yourself before buying a tent for cycle touring

First up, where are you going and how long for? Do you even need a tent?

When I cycled from Vietnam to the UK , I immediately realised once in Vietnam that a decent hammock would have been WAY more appropriate for cycle touring in South East Asia.

Stubbornly, I persisted with the tent and found out the hard way that ‘camping’ is not such a big thing. It essentially looks like you’re hiding in the bushes. Not cool in a place like Vietnam.

The humidity was stifling, which made the tent so unappealing that in the end, I simply slept on top of the tent using the canvas like a bivvy bag.

What is the best tent for bikepacking and cycling touring?

The point I make here is that the first consideration when choosing the right tent is context. How will you use the tent?

Is it a long-distance solo journey or a multi-month family cycle tour?

Are you a couple going on a short bikepacking jaunt in the UK or a multicountry ‘world cycle’?

Start to think about what you want from a night under canvas. There are many ways to sleep out at night. There is little to recommend the best tent for cycle touring except the requirements of your trip.

When I collected my Dawes Galaxy from Spa Cycles in 2011, the chap that built the bike, Andrew, recommended that no tent or bedding were required. Simply visit a local supermarket and pilfer a pile of cardboard – bed and shelter all in one move.

That said if you still need recommendations on the qualities of a decent tent for cycle touring, here’s a shortlist of the best tents for bikepacking and cycle touring according to dozens of experienced cyclists, adventurers and bikepackers.

Expert Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Bikepacking Tent for Your Adventure

As you embark on your epic bikepacking adventure, the importance of choosing the right tent cannot be underestimated. Your tent will be your home away from home, providing shelter and comfort after long days of pedaling.

With so many options on the market, finding the best bikepacking tent that suits your needs can be overwhelming. But fear not!

We’ve reviewed the bikepacking kit that we feel offers the best bang for your buck – to help you make an informed decision.

Consider these essential factors when reviewing bikepacking tents:

Packability: As a bikepacker, efficient use of space is paramount. Look for a tent that not only offers reliable protection when set up but also packs away neatly and securely.

Opt for a size and weight that complements your bikepacking style. If you have a large bag and don’t mind a bit of extra weight, a roomier tent may be suitable.

However, if you prioritize minimizing weight and space, go for an ultralight option. Remember, a compact tent is also practical when attaching it to buses or shipping it during your travels, potentially reducing costs.

Set up: A quick and hassle-free tent setup can make a world of difference, especially after a long day of riding. Consider the weather conditions you’ll encounter and the lighting available for setting up camp.

Look for a bikepacking tent with a straightforward setup process, as complex procedures and fiddly poles can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Pro tip: Before embarking on your adventure, practice setting up your tent in your backyard a few times to ensure you are familiar with the process.

Size matter with bikepacking tents

Weight: Every ounce counts when you’re on a bikepacking trip, so the weight of your tent is crucial. Ultralight tents are an excellent choice, particularly if you ride a lightweight bike.

However, if you’re going on a short trip or are new to bikepacking, you may not need the lightest tent available, which often comes at a premium price.

Durability: Investing in a sturdy and long-lasting tent is a wise decision, especially if you plan on frequent bikepacking adventures.

Focus on finding a tent made from weatherproof and durable materials, particularly if you expect to encounter challenging conditions like rain, wind, or rugged terrain.

Some bikepacking tents come with warranties, with options ranging from two to three years or even a lifetime guarantee.

Size: When it comes to size, consider both the packed-down dimensions and the tent’s actual size once pitched. We’ve already discussed the importance of packability, so now let’s focus on the tent’s interior space.

Determine whether you prefer a one-person tent for solo adventures or if you need more room with a two-person tent for couples or friends travelling together.

For individuals with ample gear, a larger tent or one with plenty of storage space might be necessary. Additionally, consider the height of the tent, as taller individuals might not be comfortable in smaller, more compact tents.

By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently choose the best bikepacking tent for your unique adventure, ensuring a comfortable and memorable journey. Happy riding!

Bikepacking Tents Reviews – The Best Bike Touring Tents of 2022/3

Big agnes copper spur hv ul ultralight bikepacking tent.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Ultralight Bikepacking Tent* is an ultralight tent that recently underwent a redesign, offering steeper walls and more interior space.

It’s a practical choice for weight-conscious adventurers who prefer proper tent poles over trekking poles.

While it might not suit taller and broader individuals sharing it, this tent excels for solo hikers seeking a lightweight option for summer and spring tours.

The North Face Stormbreak 1

If you anticipate windy and wild weather on your tour, The North Face Stormbreak 1* is an ideal choice. Its X-pole design provides structural stability against strong winds, while the mesh netting ensures good ventilation.

With a lightweight package and clever colour coding for easy assembly, this tent is perfect for solo bike tourers looking for a reliable and quick-pitch option.

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

For the luxury bike tourer seeking extra space for both gear and themselves, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is a great choice. Its exoskeleton frame allows for quick and easy pitching, and the unified rainfly keeps the inside dry in wet weather.

Despite not being the lightest on the list, its spaciousness and small packed size make it a fantastic option for bike packing.

Winterial Single Person Bivy Tent

Budget-conscious adventurers will appreciate the Winterial Single Person Bivy Tent. Weighing under 3 pounds and packing into a compact bag, this bivy tent offers a cost-effective solution for bike touring.

Its 2 hoop design simplifies pitching, and the inner mesh material ensures proper ventilation for warmer months. With a rain fly for rainy days, this tent is a valuable choice for three-season adventures.

MSR Hubba Hubba 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent

Planning a summer bike-packing adventure with friends or want to share space with your gear? The MSR Hubba Hubba 3-Person Lightweight Backpacking Tent is perfect for such scenarios.

Although made for backpacking, this hardwearing three-person tent is spacious enough for a trip of adventurers to feel comfortable. Plus, the Easton Syclone poles are virtually indestructible. It’s fully waterproof too.

Remember: Things to Consider When Buying a Bikepacking Tent for Cycle Touring

• Weight: Choose lightweight tents to reduce the burden while cycling.
• Tent Style: Consider bivy tents, single pole designs, or exoskeletal frame tents based on your preferences and requirements.
• Internal Tent Space: Determine how many people and gear you want to fit inside the tent.
• Packed Size: Ensure the tent fits onto your bike without hindering your movements.
• Features Explained: Familiarize yourself with tent shells, ventilation options, pitching methods, stakes, and pole designs.

The Best Bikepacking Tent is the one fits your adventure

Finding the best tent for cycle touring and bikepacking is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

The options we’ve listed above cater to various preferences and needs, from ultralight solo hikers to adventurers seeking extra space.

While material and construction technology has moved on, I still consider the Hilleberg Nallo 2GT a great all-rounder. Failing that, a hammock is also a great choice depending on the climate.

Consider your requirements, and select the perfect tent that will be your reliable companion on your next bike touring adventure. Happy riding!

Have you got a recommendation for the best bikepacking tent? Share your favourite below:

• Travel Gear

Bicycle Touring Tents: Everything You Need To Know

Tents are my home away from home. They are my space to take a well-deserved break and relax after a long day in the saddle.

Having spent hundreds, if not thousands of nights under sheets of expensive, lightweight, waterproof nylon – this is what I know about bicycle touring tents.

Tent Classification

In this article I will reference three different types of tent:

Ultralight: This type of tent favours weight over all other factors. Ultralight tents are great for short trips in good conditions – so don’t expect them to last a long time or be brilliant in wet and windy conditions. A typical problem with ultralight tents is broken poles, so always carry a splint. Typical weight: 800-2000g.

Backpacking: These mid-weight tents pick up some of the key durability features of 4-season tents and place them in a lighter weight and better ventilating package. Backpacking tents are often great for the average bicycle tour, or for longer journeys in warmer climates. Typical weight: 1500-2800g.

4-season: These tents tend to be most suitable for cool-mid climates and adverse weather conditions. If you’re planning on hitting sub-zero temperatures, snow and strong winds – this is what will work best. 4-season tents are often great for six-month or longer bicycle trips because of how durable they are. Typical weight: 2500-4000g.

Horses for Courses

Ok, so there is no best tent; different tents are better in certain situations.

Most of the time, you’ll need to strike a balance between weight (ultralight tents) and durability (4-season tents). With durability also comes better performance in the wind, tougher, more waterproof floors, and additional insulation properties in cooler climates.

High-quality 4-season tents tend to be expensive, twice the pack weight/size of an ultralight equivalent and perform poorly in warmer climates where heavier fabrics (and reduced mesh) limit the tents ability to ventilate well.

In summary, look for a tent that will suit both the climates you intend to travel through, the types of places you will camp and the number of times you’ll need to use it.

Freestanding vs Tunnel Tents

A great way to reduce your options is to decide whether you’re after a tunnel or freestanding tent.

Why should you buy a tunnel tent? – Tunnel tents are undoubtedly better in the wind at any given weight (eg. a 2kg freestanding tent vs 2kg tunnel tent). – The vestibules are often large and great for entertaining/cooking under. – They’re easy to set up (especially in the wind).

Why should you NOT buy a tunnel tent? – Tunnel tents rely on being staked out, limiting where you can set them up. – They’re 20-40% longer in length (bigger footprint) than a dome tent for the same inner size, again limiting where you can set them up. – Not as good at supporting snow on their roof. – They’re most of the time single entrance. – They have a lower, sloping roof; two people sometimes can’t sit up at once, or at all. – Poorer ventilation than most freestanding tents, especially if your gear is stored in the front and rear.

Why should you buy a freestanding tent? – They stand without staking, allowing you to pitch them anywhere. – You can easily pitch just the inner. – Two entrances is common. – They often have great ventilation. – You can pick up the tent, move it, shake it out, clean it etc – The roof can often withstand snow. – They’re more spacious internally (eg. headroom).

Why should you NOT buy a freestanding tent? – Not as good in the wind as a tunnel tent – you’ll need a comparably heavy freestanding tent to do well in adverse conditions.

My take:  I cannot imagine travelling with a tunnel tent because I sleep on many surfaces which will not allow pegging – such as a concrete pier or basketball court. Heavy objects can be laid out to hold up a tunnel tent, but I prefer to pop up my freestanding tent anywhere without hassle.

Tents suitable for bike touring can be as lights as 800g or as heavy as 4000g. When comparing similarly priced products, the weight of a tent is often a good indicator as to how durable it will be.

Heavier 4-season tents employ more poles (that are reinforced) and thicker materials for the fly and inner. As a result, you will probably find a 4-season tent that lasts longer than an ultralight.

Size (1, 2 or 3-Person?)

What size tent is best for bicycle touring? It depends on how long you’re on the road.

On shorter tours (less than six weeks), you’ll be fine with a tent designed for the number of people you’re travelling with (eg. a solo traveller in a 1-person tent, or a couple in a 2-person tent).

On longer tours (more than six weeks) it’s worth getting a tent with a bit more space (eg. a couple in a 3-person tent). The space is nice; I can even fit all of my bags inside my 3-person tent inner with another person, giving me quick access to everything I carry.

If you will be camping in adverse weather conditions, you may want to consider a tent with large, usable vestibules (or a gear shed). They are great for entertaining, cooking, cleaning or repairing your bike in the rain.

Most freestanding ‘dome’ tent vestibules are actually pretty useless when it comes to their space being usable – tunnel tents with a gear shed are much better. If all you need is to store your bags, dome tents will of course be fine.

I’ve found that floors are one of the most important features of a tent in wet weather conditions. This is because the pressure applied from your body weight and bags is enough to force groundwater through the floor of most tents with a 5000mm (or less) Waterhead rating.

This is a common problem when you camp on surfaces that don’t absorb water well (gravel, clay, rock, concrete), as the water tends to run under your tent floor and permeates inside.

Ventilation

In general, ultralight and backpacking tent inners have more mesh, and 4-season tent inners employ more nylon. As a result, lighter weight tents tend to be better in warmer climates.

Some 4-season tents have nylon panels that zip away to expose large areas of mesh, which increases their ventilation and makes them more versatile. If you’re planning to use your tent in various climates, look out for this feature.

Depending on who you’re travelling with, the number of entrances in and out of your tent may be something to consider. It is no doubt less obstructive to have two side doors, where people can enter and exit the tent without climbing over or zipping near somebodies head.

If a tent with two entrances is important to you, you’ll find mostly freestanding tents with this feature.

Clips, Straps, Guy Ropes

The rule here is that simpler is better – complex clips and straps are just asking for trouble and are almost never field repairable.

Ideally guy ropes should attach at two locations on the tent poles, which dramatically increases the stabilisation of the tent in windy conditions. You’ll notice that all 4-season tents have this feature, and high end companies such as Hilleberg, have this feature on almost all of their tents.

Some tents are able to be pitched in the rain without getting the inner wet – such as my Mountain Hardwear Skyledge.

The way it works is that the groundsheet and fly can be pitched together, and the inner is brought in later and clipped to the poles. This has been handy for us from time to time but isn’t 100% necessary.

If you’re wild camping like me, you’ll find that light green or sandy coloured tents are great for a mixture of climates, from desert to forest. Darker green tents are great in thicker wooded areas.

Yellow and red tents do stand out, so only use them if you don’t need to be discreet.

Groundsheets

I love tent groundsheets. These thick material sheets keep my tent inner clean, protect the tent floor from sharp objects and are great to use as a picnic blanket at lunch time .

When I pitch my tent for days in a row, I also throw a groundsheet over the fly to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. They are truly multipurpose.

Pick a bicycle touring tent which best suits your needs.

If you’re camping in warm climates, an ultralight or backpacking tent will be much more comfortable than a 4-season given the liberal use of mesh.

In adverse weather conditions or if you’re travelling for a long time, a 4-season bicycle touring tent with a gear shed may be beneficial.

Recommendations

For someone…

Who will spend 2-3 weeks touring per year in good weather conditions? A sub-1500g ultralight freestanding tent designed for the number of people travelling together. Check out the Tarptent Double Rainbow .

Who is on a three month trip in good weather conditions? A freestanding backpacking tent with space for one more person. Try the MSR Nook, Vaude Hogan , Mountain Hardwear Skyledge or Mont Moondance .

Who is on a three month trip in a cooler climate with a high chance of adverse weather conditions? A 4-season freestanding or tunnel tent with a gear shed. Try the Hilleberg Nallo GT or Vaude Hogan XT.

Who is riding through lots of deserts? A 4-season freestanding or 3-season tunnel tent for sure. Deserts are windy! Check out the Hilleberg Nallo or Allak .

Who is on a 12-month plus trip? Either: Invest, invest, invest in a high-end 4-season tent. A Hilleberg Staika or Exped Venus freestanding tent will cost an arm and leg but you will almost definitely get 1000+ nights out of it. Or: If your trip will take you through predominantly warmer climates, an ultralight or backpacking tent will be cooler, but less durable. You may have to replace it sometime on your journey. Check out the Mountain Hardwear Skyledge , Vaude Hogan or Mont Moondance .

Reputable Brands

Exped: High quality, high-end tents. Hilleberg: This company is world-renowned for making some of the best, most durable tents. Don’t expect to end up with change after purchasing one. Mont: Australian tents which have the magic combination of a 10,000mm floor and lots of inner mesh. Mountain Hardwear: Although I broke poles and clips on my original Skyledge 3 tent, the replacement tent is very light, easy to pitch and super ventilated. MSR: Highly popular for a reason – good range, decent quality and ok price. REI: Great budget tents. Tarptent: Ultralight tents at a decent price point. Terra Nova: Super high quality, renowned for their waterproofness. Vaude: A decent range, high quality and popular for many world tourers.

Related Posts

• Review: Mountain Hardwear Skyledge 3 Tent (2011)
• Review: Salewa Sierra Leone II Tent (2013)
• Mont Moondance Tent Review: Tough Enough For The Americas?
• Use Your Tent Groundsheet as a Picnic Rug on Tour
• groundsheet
• tent review
• wild camping

I had a light weight summer hiking tent but it devoloped a hole in the mesh so I am planing on buying a new one. I wasn’t sure if I should get a 3 or 4 sesson tent so I statred to look at some bivys becasue they are small and light, and can be rolled out and climbed into after a long day. They are good for quick sleeps but don’t afford much room for extened stays. I want to ride through the Snowy Mountains and do some hiking just before the ski season. I know a 4 season tent is required and I will buy one, but I still think I should get a bivy sac as well.

There is a tent that really deserves attention, the american-made Tarptent Scarp, It is basically a tunnel tent with central arcg like the iconic Hilleberg atko, but with many improvements, it has entrances and vestibules on both sides, rectangular rather than wedge-shaped and a bit more spatious, they make it for one or two persons bur the solo version can reportedly accomodate two. It is cheaper and lighter than the atko but lighter wieight comes at the cost of less durable materials. It has the wind resilience of a tunnel tent but with two optional bars can be reinforced and transformed into a free standing tent, the best of both worlds type of thing. On the down side, they make only a greyish white colour which may be good to reflect off the sun but doesn’t hel to blend in anywhere.

Thanks for the suggestion!

A very comprehensive guide and Mont is grateful for the mention. Thanks Alee!

Mont Adventure Equipment

The most important change in tents in decades is just around the corner and it’s name is Dyneema. When Hilleberg makes a big tunnel tent with vestibule and they build the fly out of Dyneema I will Jump on it. 2/3 the weight, totally waterproof and only twice the price!

No mention of Wilderness Equipment out of Fremantle? I used one of their Second Arrow tunnel tents on two long trips – first from Perth to Brisbane and then half-way up South America. In all weathers, it never let me down. Admittedly not the two person tent they claimed it to be, but a very livable tent for one person. It can be pegged out with just three pegs, the floor of the inner can be rolled back for plenty of room for cooking, and the ventilation options make it suitable for almost any climate. Mine’s nearly twenty years old and not as waterproof as it once was, but I’d certainly buy another.

There’s too many tents to mention! Thanks for the recommendation.

Comments are closed.

Bicycle touring. Outdoor adventures. Solo female travel.

The best tents for bicycle touring in 2024- buyer’s guide

Cycling tours are a great way to explore new places and get some exercise. But after spending a lot of time on your bike, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial. A good tent is one of the most essential pieces of gear.

There are a lot of different tents on the market, so it can be tough to know which one is right for you. But don’t worry – I am here to help. In this article, I’ll give you a rundown of the best tents for bicycle touring so you can choose the best one for your next adventure.

This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you purchase products by clicking on the links (at no additional cost to you). It will help me keep working on this blog. Thank you for your support!

How to choose a tent for bicycle touring?

I am going on my first trip by bike. Can you recommend a good tent for bicycle touring? I’ve heard and seen this question a thousand times. The problem is there is no right answer .

Every tourist and cyclist has different needs and a different budget. A perfect tent doesn’t exist. Finding the best one involves trade-offs between weight, sturdiness, price, and a few other factors.

Are you planning to wild camp or stay on official campsites?

If you’re not planning to wild camp but only stay on official campsites or in people’s gardens (yes, that’s possible thanks to great initiatives like Welcome to My Garden! ), you don’t need to think about the colour of your tent.

If you’re going to stealth camp, you definitely want to stay unseen for your safety. In this case, dark green or brown will always be better than flashy yellow or red tents that look cool on Instagram.

What weather are you expecting?

Before choosing a tent for your bicycle tour, consider the weather you can expect. If you plan to cycle the Pamir Highway or Trans Patagonia, your tent must handle unpredictable mountain weather. Some nights will likely be windy and rainy, so you want a sturdy and resilient shelter.

If you’re travelling to the tropics, you want a tent with good ventilation. It also shouldn’t get too hot, so brighter colours that reflect the sun will be an advantage. Especially in countries where Malaria is common, it’s good to have a tent where you can use the mesh separately, without the rain fly. This will protect you from mosquitoes while giving you extra ventilation.

How much money can you spend and how long will you use the tent?

Outdoor gear is expensive. If you are only beginning your bike touring and camping adventure, you don’t want to spend a few hundred bucks only to find out you don’t enjoy it. Many of us also have a very limited trip budget and can’t afford to buy an advanced ultralight tent.

Luckily, there are some decent, cheaper options on the market. Most solid low-budget tents are heavier than the more expensive ones with similar features. Going for something really cheap and ultralight can be a recipe for disaster: breaking poles, leaking fabrics, unstable construction… So, if your most important criterion is the price, look rather at a bit heavier tent. In my rundown below, I will include some low-budget options recommended to me by other bike tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

There are also other ways to save money when buying a good, cheap tent:

• Shop after the season. September/October offers many great deals, with savings of up to 60 %.
• Buy second-hand. There are many websites and Facebook groups where people sell their used outdoor gear. You can read more about it here .

How important is comfort for you?

Are you looking for a tent that will be only a shelter, a place where you survive the night? Or do you want something where you can sit down, play cards, and feel a bit more at home ?

Every person has different expectations when it comes to comfort when camping. If you plan to travel for many months, you’ll probably need a bit more space. Are you more of a weekend traveller, someone who goes for short but intense bike trips? Then you’d rather want to save weight instead of carrying a big comfy tent.

Tent specs explained

Waterproof rating.

Nobody wants to wake up in a tent with water dripping on their head. That’s why you should always check the waterproof ratings before buying a tent.

They express how much millimetres of water the tent can withstand before it leaks. For example, a tent with a waterproof rating of 1000mm can withstand the weight of 1000mm of water. Theoretically, the higher the waterproof rating, the more water the tent can withstand.

Yet waterproof ratings only tell part of the story. You need to consider the quality of the materials and the construction of the tent. A high-quality tent with a lower waterproof rating can keep you dry for as long as a tent with higher ratings made of cheap materials. Wear and tear, and abrasion also play a role, so it’s important to maintain your gear.

As a rule of thumb, you should choose a tent with at least a 1000 mm waterproof rating.

Packing weight vs trail weight

Most online shops list two values for weight in the tent specs: packing weight and trail weight. Which one is more important, and what do they mean? The trail weight is just the weight of the poles, the body, and the rainfly, unlike the packing weight, which also includes the pegs, guy lines, sack, and other accessories (like a repair kit).

Long story short, you should rather look at the packing weight, not the trail weight.

What are the best tents for bicycle touring?

It would make sense if I start with the tent I use myself. On my bicycle tours, I sleep in a Fjord Nansen Tromvik II . It’s a light (2 kg) 2-person tent that’s pretty spacious (even if I travel with someone, we can put our stuff in the tent).

I am not including it on my recommendation list for two reasons:

• It’s sold out in all the shops I’ve checked.
• I had a few issues with it – the fabric is quite fragile, and the poles let me down a few times. To do justice to the manufacturer, since I complained and received a replacement with an improved design, I haven’t had any problems. But the adventures with Fjord Nansen Tromvik II gave me enough experience to write an article about how to fix the most common issues with a tent .

The pros of this tent are magnificent weather resistance. I survived a few heavy storms in Normandy and windy mountain nights.

So let’s move on to the other tents I chose, based on recommendations from fellow bicycle travellers.

I will start with the “premium” tents between 300 and 600 euros. Later, I will present a few less expensive tents between 49 and 250 euros.

Premium tents for bicycle touring

Big agnes copper spur hv ul 2-person bikepacking tent.

An ideal tent doesn’t exist, but Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2 is as close to perfection as it gets. Many 2-person tents are not spacious enough to provide a comfortable shelter to two people, but not this one! At the same time, it only weighs 1,59 kg.

As one of the first manufacturers, Big Agnes offers a special edition for bikepacking and bike touring. These tents have shorter poles to better fit on the handlebar or in the panniers. The stuffing sack has special loops enabling you to attach it with straps to your bike.

Buying an ultralight tent like this comes with a price: the materials are quite fragile, and you must handle the Copper Spur gently. For this price, many people would expect a more durable tent. The weak spots seem to be the floor and the poles.

The regular version is about 50 euros cheaper than the bikepacking one. If you don’t care much about shorter poles and all the bike-specific gadgets, it can be a good way to save money.

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 Bikepacking

Another great alternative from Big Agnes is the Fly Creek UL2 Bikepacking . It’s also a two-person tent but significantly smaller than the Copper Spur. It’s a great option if you are willing to trade comfort for weight (only 1,19 kg) and price (about 450 euros).

Fly Creek also comes in a cheaper backpacking version with longer poles and as a 1-persons tent .

This model has many cool pockets and solutions to help you organise your stuff inside the tent and under the rain fly. If you are messy like me, you’ll definitely appreciate that.

Besides the limited living space, another downside of Fly Creek UL2 is the colour. The yellow tent looks awesome in the pictures. But, if you’re camping not far from civilisation, it doesn’t help you to be an invisible ninja.

NEMO Dragonfly 2

If you are looking for a lightweight 2-person tent, Nemo Dragonfly 2 is a great option. Weighing only 1,41 kg, it has enough space for two people with many pockets and large vestibules to store your gear. A special bonus for stargazing lovers: on rainless nights, you can camp without the fly and the non-transparent will still give you a sense of privacy.

Nemo Dragonfly is easy to set up, and the colours blend well with the landscape. The only downsides are the high price (about 450 euros) and the ventilation, especially when two people are in.

Tarptent Moment DW

The Tarptent Moment DW is a lightweight tent perfect for fast-moving adventures.

This one-person tent is easy to set up (it shouldn’t take more than 2 minutes). It is completely freestanding which is super useful when camping on hard ground. The Moment DW is also very light – 993 grams (about 2 lbs.), so it’s easy to carry with you on your travels.

It’s also very water resistant – even in storms – so you can stay dry and safe even when things get rough out there! It has enough space to keep your gear inside.

The best low-budget tents for bicycle touring

In this section, I will present the cheaper tents for bike touring. I will start with the cheapest option.

Quechua MH100

This basic tent from Decathlon costs only 50 euros and is a decent option if you’re on a shoestring budget. It is sturdy and reliable compared to similarly priced tents (like the Vango Soul 100, which is known for its faulty poles).

Quechua MH100 is a two-person tent, and although it’s not very heavy (2,4 kg), it’s rather bulky. It should keep you dry and safe even during heavy rains, but the ventilation is poor when two people are inside.

Vaude Campo Compact XT 2P

If you are looking for a weather-resistant two-person tent for reasonable money, the Vaude Campo Compact XT 2P is a good option. It has excellent waterproof ratings and costs about 160 euros.

It is pretty spacious and has many inner pockets to store your belongings. The construction is simple and easy to set up, ensuring stability even during windy nights. It is available in two colours: red and green, the latter perfectly blending in with the environment when you are wild camping.

Unfortunately, Vaude Campo Compact XT 2P is quite heavy (3 kg) and has only 1 entrance, which is annoying if you share the tent with another person.

VANGO-Nevis 200

The Vango-Nevis 200 is a great low-budget tent for bicycle touring. It has great waterproof ratings (6000 mm floor, 3000 mm fly), is lightweight (2kg), and easy to carry around. And it’s green—perfect for discrete wild camping!

This tent can fit two people with gear, but it won’t be comfortable. The tunnel design can feel a bit claustrophobic, like a coffin.

You’ll have to be careful in windy conditions—the tent can be flappy in strong winds.

Big Agnes- C Bar 2

The Big Agnes C Bar 2 – 2-man tent is the best option if you want lightweight but don’t want to spend too much money. It’s not the most expensive tent on the market, but it’s not cheap either.

It’s light at 1810g and sets up easily, which means you won’t have to waste time fiddling around with poles. It’s also free-standing and has good head clearance, which makes it nice for tall people.

The only downside is the light colour of the fabric, which makes the tent easy to spot and get dirty.

What tent do you use on your bicycle tours? If you have good recommendations for a reliable bike touring tent, share them in the comments!

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Skomentuj cancel reply, 3 thoughts on “the best tents for bicycle touring in 2024- buyer’s guide”.

Great article. I realize your directing your article at Europeans but for my tent for biking and camping Sierra Designs which along with Northface started the camping backpacking industry/experience here in US had Sierra Designs Clip Flashlight 1. 2.5 kgs. This lasted me 15 years. The Clip Flashlight 2 was manufactured and then for some reason discontinued about 2 years ago but I called SD and last year luckily found a retailer in US who still had some in stock. About same weight and more plastic parts but still great tent. Glad I had it last December camping in a rainy tropical park in Colombia. Dennis

Thanks Dennis for your comments and the recommendations! So lucky for you they still had your favourite model in stock, a tent that lasts 15 years is a rare bird these days. Hope the new one will last you as long too!

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11 Best Tents for Bikepacking and Camping

Find your perfect adventure partner with these top tents of the year.

Whether you need an ultralight tent to strap on your handlebars or a large home-away-from-home for a trailhead basecamp, these top 11 tents of the year will keep you safe, dry, and comfortable when you head out into backcountry by car or bike.

Check out quick reviews below of our top five tents, or scroll deeper for more helpful buying info and full reviews of those models plus other high-ranking options.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 2

Total Expert Score: 95/100

The most spacious and lightweight bikepacking tent for two.

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL 2

Total Expert Score: 87/100

This is one of the lightest tents favored by bikepacking experts. 

Coleman Sundome 4

Total Expert Score:  95/100

A popular budget and family-friendly tent best for car camping.

REI Kingdom 6 Tent

Total Expert Score:  93/100

A spacious two-room tent for your trailhead basecamp.

Kelty Kelty Salida 2

Total Expert Score:  88/100

A simple, affordable tent for solo bikepackers on a budget.

Backpacking vs. Car Camping

If you plan to carry your tent by back or bike, backpacking tents are your best bet. They come in one to four-person models. Plus-size models offer greater length and width, but experts recommend going for a size higher than your number of people if you need extra space for storage and gear.

Ultralight backpacking tents now weigh less than 3 pounds, but their lightweight material often sacrifices some durability, which means you need to be extra careful on long backcountry rides. For many, regular lightweight tents offer a good compromise between toughness and weight—on a bike, those few extra grams may be less noticeable and you get a more resilient product (and often a few more features, including extra room). Keep in mind that additional elements like footprints, rainflies, stakes, and guylines for non-freestanding tents will also add weight.

If you prefer to trek out into the outdoors by car rather than by bike, car camping tents are an ideal choice. They typically come in four-, six-, or eight-person models for larger groups. They will be heavier, but often have more rain protection, storage space and can be easier to assemble. For either type of tent, also consider qualities that improve its livability, such as number of doors and vestibules that make it easier to share a tight space with multiple people.

How We Rated

We researched 19 expert sources and 2,500 consumer reviews to select the top 11 tents of 2019. To determine our Total Expert Score, we calculate the ratings from expert review sites such as Outdoor Gear Lab , Section Hiker , and Gear We Are , and convert them to a 100-point scale to make it easier for you to weigh the best options. Our Consumer Score represents the percentage of consumers who rated the product at least 4 out of 5 stars on retail sites like Amazon , Moosejaw , REI , and Backcountry .

Best Overall

Total Expert Score: 95/100 | Consumer Score: 83% give it 4 stars or higher A spacious and lightweight tent for two.

Weight: 3 lb. 1 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H): 88 x 52/42 x 40 in. | Doors: 2

The Big Agnes Copper Spur offers the best balance between weight and size, making it the most comfortable backpacking tent for two. At only 3 pounds, it still features two doors and vestibules, plenty of headroom to sit up, and interior pockets for storage. Plus it’s light enough for most bikepacking adventures.

The Big Agnes Copper Spur was highly rated by 11 out of 19 of our expert sources, and ranked #1 by Section Hiker , Clever Hiker , and Digital Trends . Outdoor Gear Lab gave it their Editor’s Choice, writing that it’s “truly a tent that we could take anywhere, from sea kayaking adventures to peak bagging missions.”

In addition to its roomy interior, one REI reviewer noted, “It was easy to set up and pack-up.” Many other reviews remarked on how it stayed dry and secure in rain and wind. This tent also comes in sizes for one, three, or four people.

Expert Pick

Total Expert Score: 87/100 | Consumer Score: 82% give it 4 stars or higher Big Agnes’ Fly Creek is the lightest tent favored by bikepacking experts.

Weight: 2 lb. 5 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 86 x 52/42 x 40 in. | Doors: 1

Because of the the brand’s popularity among bikepackers, Big Agnes is releasing new bikepack models of the Fly Creek and Copper Spur designed as more bike-friendly with shorter tent poles that fit better in a handlebar or frame bag. These tents won’t be available until April 2019, but until then, the 2018 Fly Creek HV UL remains the top bikepacking expert pick, recommended by Bikepacking.com , Dirt Rag Magazine , Gear Patrol , and more.

Though it’s not freestanding, the Fly Creek is the lightest tent with a packed weight of just over 2 lbs. Bikepacking.com wrote about the Fly Creek HV UL1 mntGLO model with LED overhead lights that “for its weight, size, and ease of use, it’s simply hard to beat as a solo bikepacking tent.”

One user wrote on REI , “Yes, it is small. Yes, it is delicate. But, it is also amazingly light, and it is more durable than you would expect.” If you’re willing to sacrifice some durability for less weight on your bike, the Fly Creek is your best pick.

Best Car Camping

Total Expert Score: 95/100 | Consumer Score: 88% give it 4 stars or higher A popular budget- and family-friendly tent for car camping.

Weight: 10.6 lb. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 100 x 86 x 59 in. | Doors: 1

Coleman Sundome 4-Person

There’s a reason for this tent’s popularity: The Sundome is cheap, versatile, and easy to set up, with decent water resistance and two large windows for ventilation. The Gear Hunt gave it 5 stars, writing that it “has all of the features one would expect to find in a camping tent” at a lower-than-average price.

Along with other consistently positive Amazon reviews, one user wrote that “it will work well for short camping trips with a small family, couple, or individual.” If you only take a few camping trips per year, the Sundome two, four, or six person may be for you.

Best Family

Rei kingdom 6.

Total Expert Score: 93/100 | Consumer Score: 79% give it 4 stars or higher A spacious two-room tent for families and larger groups.

Weight: 19 lb. 12 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 120 x 100 x 75 in. | Doors: 2

REI Co-op Kingdom 6

One of the most spacious and versatile tents, the Kingdom comes with a curtain in the center to make an extra room, as either another bedroom, pet or storage space, or living area. With so much room, it’s a great option for family trips to the Vermont’s Kingdom trails or any other adventure destination.

Switchback Travel named it the #1 camping tent of the year, describing its thoughtful design “with plenty of interior storage, a center divider, and very large doors on both ends.”

One REI reviewer said, “We easily fit a family of 5.” Experts and consumers alike both recommend springing for the “garage” attachment to store gear and supplies, especially in poor weather. Along with an optional additional vestibule, REI also offers the tent in four- and 8-person models.

Kelty Salida 2

Total Expert Score: 88/100 | Consumer Score: 89% give it 4 stars or higher An easy, affordable tent for solo bikepackers.

Weight: 4 lb. 9 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 88 x 55/45 x 43 in. | Doors: 1

For a backpack-friendly two-person tent, the Kelty Salida delivers the most value at a low price. With one door and vestibule space for your gear, this tent can easily accommodate a solo bikepacking trip, though some users claim it’s a little cramped for two.

Giving it 5 stars, Gear We Are said, “It’s relatively easy to set up and transport, and is surprisingly adept at keeping the elements at bay.” Though there are more expensive, lighter tents than the Salida 2, one REI review claims that for its price, it’s the “perfect size for backpacking and light enough for long trips.”

More High-Ranking Options to Consider:

Msr hubba hubba nx.

Total Expert Score: 93/100 | Consumer Score: 94% give it 4 stars or higher A durable weekend backpacking tent with weight that two can share.

Weight: 3 lb. 13 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 84 x 50 x 39 in | Doors: 2

MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2

The MSR Hubba Hubba NX competes closely with Big Agnes’ Copper Spur with similar space and comfort, including two doors and vestibules, but ultimately compromises on some weight and storm protection for durability.

Appearing on 9 expert best-tent lists, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX was also labeled the “best weekend backpacker” by Digital Trends . They wrote, “If you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of weight for added durability, the MSR Hubba Hubba NX is a high-quality option.”

A buyer on Moosejaw described this tent as the “perfect combination of functionality and light weight.” Others claim that it holds up well in storms, even if it doesn’t beat the Copper Spur for weather protection.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2

Total Expert Score: 85/100 | Consumer Score: 65% give it 4 stars or higher One of the lightest backpacking tents you can buy—under 3 pounds.

Weight: 2 lb. 8 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 87 x 52 x 39 in. | Doors: 2

Big Agnes has designed the Tiger Wall as even lighter than the Copper Spur, though slightly more than the Fly Creek. Two doors and dual vestibules for your gear will make bikepacking in wet weather easier. Its semi-freestanding design with light material may not be as suitable for rocky terrain or heavy winds, but its mesh walls provide great ventilation and comfort in better conditions.

Backpacker concludes, “If you want an easy pitch, two doors, and freestanding convenience for a hair over a pound per person, this is your tent.” One reviewer on Moosejaw wrote, “Brilliant hybrid of a Fly Creek and Copper Spur. Light weight. Easy to pitch. Very roomy.”

Alps Mountaineering Lynx 1

Total Expert Score: 83/100 | Consumer Score: 93% give it 4 stars or higher An affordable single-person tent for solo hikers and mountain climbers.

Weight: 4 lb. 4 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 90 x 32 x 36 in. | Doors: 1

ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1

If you’re the type who prefers solo adventures, the Alps Mountaineering Lynx is a one-person shelter that will keep you secure and comfortable without weighing you down.

The Gear Hunt gave it 4.75 stars, noting that its 4-pound weight “makes it easy to attach to your hiking or climbing gear.” Many Amazon reviews remarked on its great value for under $100. “This tent performs like it should cost around $400,” one said.

REI Half Dome 2 Plus

Total Expert Score: 90/100 | Consumer Score: 83% give it 4 stars or higher A roomier two-person tent perfect for bike touring.

Weight: 5 lb. 5 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 92 x 56 x 44 in. | Doors: 2

REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus Tent

Though the REI Half Dome is a 2 person tent, the “plus” indicates that it’s a little more spacious for taller people or additional gear. If your bike can handle hauling a few extra pounds, this REI tent is made from more durable, waterproof material compared to other ultralight backpacking tents.

Backpackers.com selected the REI Half Dome as their Editor’s Choice, claiming that you’ll “sleep like a royal family out on the trail in a well-designed space filled with abundant features and comforts.”

One REI reviewer called it a great bike touring tent: “It’s the perfect size/weight for touring on bike. Easy set up! The first night of use it rained a few hours and the tent stayed perfectly dry inside.”

Eureka Copper Canyon 6

Total Expert Score: 86/100 | Consumer Score: 90% give it 4 stars or higher A massive car camping tent to replace the family home.

Weight: 23 lb. 2 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 10 x 10 x 7 ft. | Doors: 1

If you prefer camping at the trailhead (and driving to get there), the Eureka Canyon is a big, boxy, six-person tent with space for sleeping, relaxing, and all of your gear. It includes a center curtain to divide separate rooms, a gear loft, one large door, and three large side windows.

Digital Trends wrote that despite its large size, “one person can quickly set it up and break it down.” Backcountry.com buyers also love that you can stand up inside. “Very heavy but PERFECT for car camping when space isn’t an issue,” one wrote.

Nemo Hornet UL 2

Total Expert Score: 91/100 | Consumer Score: 83% give it 4 stars or higher An ultralight, three-season tent for two.

Weight: 2 lb. 5 oz. | Dimensions (L x W x H) : 85 x 51/43 x 39 in. | Doors: 2

NEMO Hornet UL 2

Rivaling most one-person tents, the Nemo Hornet UL 2 is light enough for one, but spacious enough for two. Its mesh walls and sturdy panels nicely balance air circulation with privacy and weather protection. Outdoor Gear Lab gave the Nemo Hornet 5 stars, writing that it’s targeted to “backpackers seeking both performance and creature comforts in their equipment.”

An REI buyer called it “just right” in terms of size and weight because it’s “lighter than most one-person tents, but fits two people.” Others also found it suitable for long-distance backpacking and mountaineering.

Paige Szmodis is an editor for Runner’s World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics, who researches and writes home, tech, and outdoor product reviews and news.

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Best Tents for Bike Touring of 2024

The map is spread out on your dining table (or more likely your computer screen) and you are planning your next epic adventure. The roads less travelled, destinations you’ve only dreamed of, and adventures into the wilderness.

But wait…the wilderness doesn’t have hotels!!

So it’s time to find a suitable shelter that you can take with you. What is the best tent for bike touring, you ask? It’s a tent that can be packed up small enough to fit on the handlebars of your bike, one that is lightweight so you aren’t carrying too much weight, and one that can handle any weather conditions you might encounter along the way, anything from rain and wind through to hot summer nights.

We scoured high and low to find the best tent for bike touring. There are plenty of options to choose from; tiny tents, spacious tents, tents with storage, multi-person or single person tents. We shortlisted the best options with varying qualities to help you find the perfect tent for your next bike touring adventure.

For more of our top bike touring gear recommendations, check out the Best Stoves for Bike Touring .

Quick Answer - The Best Tents for Bike Touring

• Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2 View at REI
• The North Face Stormbreak 1 View at Backcountry
• MSR Hubba Tour 1 View at Moosejaw
• Winterial Single Person Bivy Tent View at Amazon
• Nemo Apollo 3P View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Tents for Bike Touring

Reviews - the best bike touring tents, big agnes fly creek hv ul2.

• Canopy Material : Nylon/polyester mesh
• Capacity : 1P / 2P
• Design Type : Semi-Freestanding
• Floor Area : 28.0 sq ft
• Weight : 2 lbs 04 oz
• Season : 3-Season
• Sleeping Capacity : 2-Person
• Waterproof? : Yes
• Packed Dimensions : 5.5” x 12”
• Pole Material : Aluminium
• Multiple Internal Pockets For Storing Gear
• Durable Rain Fly For Protection In Bad Weather
• Tent Designed Specifically For Bike Packing With A Small Packed Size

The Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2 is an ultralight tent that has been recently redesigned to give it steeper walls and more interior space than the older model. It’s a great option if you’re looking to cut weight but aren’t willing to splurge on a high end, super light tent. 

What we loved the most about this tent is it is light but still can be set up with proper tent poles. Some other ultralight tents on this list need to be pitched with trekking poles, which is resourceful but it puts some people, especially new backpackers off. 

The Fly Creek HV UL2 might not cut it for true ultralight hikers who count every ounce. Our biggest drawback is the single door. That’s fine if you’re going to use this tent for solo adventures but it’s a real pain for two people. On that note, unless you and your partner are short and slim, sleeping two people in this thing is going to be a struggle. 

In conclusion, this is a good option for solo hikers who are looking for a practical lightweight tent to use in summer and spring.

The Fly Creek HV UL also comes in a 1-person version

The North Face Stormbreak 1

• Canopy Material : Polyester Taffeta
• Design Type : Freestanding
• Weight : 3.2 lbs
• Sleeping Capacity : 1 Person
• Packed Dimensions : 7” x 9” x 21”
• Small Design Keeps It Lightweight
• Mesh Netting For Good Ventilation
• Simple Design Makes It Easy To Pitch

BEST FOR: WINDY AND WILD WEATHER

Heading out when there may be some wind and wild weather? The North Face Stormbreak 1 is an ideal choice for you. It has an X pole design, where the poles cross over each other, giving it plenty of structural stability to stand up to strong winds. The aluminium poles and minimal design keep this tent a lightweight package. 

The mesh netting allows for good ventilation, while the rain fly holds up to rain. The North Face thought of some clever tricks to make this tent easy to assemble by color-coding the corners of the main shell with the rain fly so you will easily get it right every time. The tent also features a small vestibule allowing you to store your packs and any other small items you want to keep dry.

This tent is specifically designed to sleep one, and for the price point paired with a good quality package it would be hard to go wrong selecting this tent for your next adventure.

MSR Hubba Tour 1

• Canopy Material : DWR Coated Ripstop Nylon
• Design Type : Semi Freestanding
• Weight : 4.7 lbs
• Packed Dimensions : 7” x 17”
• Pole Material : Aluminum
• Short Poles Allow For Small Packed Size
• Spacious Vestibule For Storing Gear Overnight
• Unified Rain Fly For Quick Pitching

BEST FOR: THE LUXURY BIKE TOURER

If sliding into a small bivy tent is not your idea of a good time, and you’re looking for something that is a little more spacious for both you and your gear, then the MSR Hubba Tour 1 could be the tent for you.

While this tent is not as light as some of the others on this list, for its spacious size it is still a light-weight package. Additionally its packed size is a mere 5.5” x 17” which makes it a great choice for bike packing.

The specially designed tent, with an exoskeleton frame (meaning the poles are on the outside of the tent) makes pitching this tent quick and easy. Paired with the unified rainfly, the main canopy is also waterproof, meaning even in wet weather the inside of the tent will stay clean and dry. The large vestibule allows plenty of space for your gear or lots of space for you to wait out a bad storm.

Winterial Single Person Bivy Tent

• Canopy Material : Nylon
• Weight : 2.9 lbs
• Packed Dimensions : 18" x 4.5" x 4"
• Includes Cords And Stakes To Secure The Tent
• Ventilated Mesh Inner Walling To Keep You Cool And Comfortable

BEST FOR: BUDGET CONSCIOUS ADVENTURERS

The Winterial Single Person Bivy Tent is an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend too much money. This is the lowest cost option on the list, however it is not lacking in all the key areas that you would look for when purchasing a tent for bike touring. 

Weighing in at under 3 pounds and packing up into a relatively compact bag, it’s perfect for strapping onto your bike and hitting the road. This is a bivy tent (see Features Explained section below for more explanation) which means it is short and you will not be able to stand or sit in the tent. The benefit of the small bivy design is that it uses less material and makes this tent super lightweight.

Pitching the tent is easy as it uses a 2 hoop design, where the lightweight poles simply snap together and thread through the tent loops to create the structure. The inner mesh material allows for plenty of ventilation, perfect for the warmer months. Plus it has a rain fly for when the weather turns bad, making it suitable for heavy rainfall. This tent will see you through three seasons and is a great value for cost option.

Nemo Apollo 3P

• Canopy Material : Ripstop Silnylon
• Design Type : Non-Freestanding
• Weight : 1.11 lbs
• Sleeping Capacity : 3-Person
• Waterproof? : No
• Packed Dimensions : 5.1” x 18.9”
• Lightweight And Small Packed Size
• Adjustable Pole To Change The Height Of The Tent

BEST FOR: SUMMER ADVENTURES WITH FRIENDS

If you’re headed out for a summer bike-packing adventure with some friends, or headed out solo but want to keep you bike and gear in the tent with you, then the Nemo Apollo 3P is just what you need.

The simplistic adjustable center pole design makes this tent extremely quick to set up with the ability to vary the height based on your requirements. The single wall construction and floorless design paired with the single pole makes this an ultra-light tent especially considering it will fit up to 3 people. 

Travelling with a friend? You can easily share the weight by splitting up the poles, stakes and tent shell, which will leave each of you carrying less than 1lb of shelter weight. While not completely waterproof, this tent is designed with durable materials and is able to withstand light winds, making it perfect for summertime when the weather is typically more mild.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A TENT FOR BIKE TOURING

When bike touring , every ounce matters. The more weight you have, the harder you have to work to carry it around. Lightweight tent options are plentiful and there are plenty of multi-person tents available to share the weight of the tent with your fellow bike tourers.

There are three main styles of bike touring tents:

These are the smallest style of bikepacking tent. They have minimal height and are very compact and lightweight. This style will generally only fit one person and their sleeping gear. You will not be able to sit up inside the tent. Read more about Bivy Tents and Bivy Sacks here.

Single Pole

This style of tent has a single main pole in the center and the edges are staked out to give the tent its shape. Single pole tents come in a variety of sizes. They can be lightweight but do take some practice to pitch.

Exoskeletal Frame

Tents with an external frame use poles that snap together to form the skeleton (structure) of the frame. They can come in either multi-hooped design, X- design, or T-section. These tents are quick to pitch and semi-freestanding. They still require staking but will hold their structure even without being staked down, making set-up super easy.

INTERNAL TENT SPACE

How many people do you want to fit in the tent? Do you want to fit your gear and packs in there too? These are all questions to ask yourself as they will help determine the best tent option for you. 

An advantage of choosing a multi-person tent instead of each person on the trip having a solo tent is the overall weight is not doubled from a single to double person tent. This means you can share the weight of your tent with your bike touring buddy, helping to reduce the overall weight each of you are carrying.

PACKED SIZE

Typically the length of the poles has the biggest impact on the length of the packed size. Ensure the packed tent can fit onto your bike, whether it’s inside bags or perhaps on your front handlebars. Alternatively you can store the poles and stakes separately to the canopy and rainfly to help distribute the weight.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

Tent shells.

This is the outer shell that is designed out of waterproof material and will often have additional waterproof coatings. The seams on the rainfly will also be specially sealed to increase the waterproof qualities. This shell is attached over the top of the tent.

Ventilated Mesh Inner

This is often the inner layer and main component of the tent shell. It’s made from a mesh material which allows for ventilation, helping you stay cool and comfortable while camping in the warmer months. During the warmer months and in good weather these can be used on their own. If used in conjunction with the rainfly, a mesh inner allows for airflow which decreases the chance of condensation forming. Less condensation = more heat so you can stay toasty in the cooler months as well.

Unified Rain Fly

This is a single shell that integrates the rainfly into the main component of the tent shell. Tents with a unified rainfly can be pitched without getting the inside wet even if you’re setting up in the rain.

This is the term used to describe putting the tent up.

These are made from metal or strong plastic and are used to hold the tent to the ground.

These are most commonly made from aluminium and will either dismantle or be adjustable so they can be stored in short lengths for easy transport. The aluminium poles that dismantle are very easy to use, simply by sliding them in or out of one another to create longer poles that are used in the exoskeletal tent design.   

POLE DESIGNS

There are a variety of designs that use aluminium poles that join together. The advantage of this is the poles are compact yet when joined together they form a flexible yet strong structure. The tent shell is then attached to this structure. There are a variety of ways these poles can be used:

Hooped designs use lengths of aluminium poles that create a flexible semi circle. A tent with a hooped design will feature 2 or more hoops that are placed at either end of the tent, which creates the structure of the tent.

X-Style designs use equal lengths of aluminium poles that create a flexible semi circle. Two of these poles are crossed over one another to create an X shape and form the structure of the tent.

T-Style designs use two varying lengths of aluminium poles. The longer length pole forms a semicircle while the shorter length poles connect to the middle of the long pole to form a T-shape.

Freestanding tents are a sturdy structure that do not require stakes to be inserted into the ground to hold them upright.

Semi-Freestanding tents are a sturdy structure that can stand on its own when pitched. However, they require staking into the ground to hold them in place.

Non-Freestanding tents have no independent structure and can not stand on their own without being staked into the ground.

For more of our top bicycle touring gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

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Bikepacking > Bikepacking Gear

Choosing a Bikepacking Tent: 9 Factors to Consider

Your bikepacking tent should be your sanctuary, a cozy home away from home. Whether you’re navigating remote trails in the wilderness or puzzling cultural norms abroad (or both at the same time) you need a dry, convenient, frustration-free place to lay your weary head each night.

But the best tent for bikepacking, now, that’s a tricky question! The best bikepacking tent for you depends on where you plan to use it, with who and for how long, and what you mean when you say “bikepacking.” Minimalist singletrack shredding? Long-haul dirt touring? A local weekend overnighter? All of the above, eventually?

Tents aren’t cheap and there are many to choose from. You wouldn’t want to pick based on one particular person’s recommendation, only to find that it’s perfect for them but doesn’t match the style of bikepacking you’re most stoked about.

Don’t worry, I’m here to help you sort through all the specs and marketing fluff to find the perfect tent for your specific bikepacking aspirations. I’ll walk you through the important factors to consider when choosing a bikepacking tent and how to personalize them to your riding style .

I’ll also recommend popular top-performing tents in each major category, along with their bikepacking-specific pros and cons. Several of these tents have been my home away from home during 19,000+ miles of bikepacking and touring, both solo and with a partner. Some are recommendations from fellow bikepackers and the collective expertise of the bikepacking community. A few I’ve selected based on reputation and standout specs.

Whatever your style and budget, I hope this guide leads you to a tent you’ll enjoy for many peaceful and adventurous nights under the stars.

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When you buy through affiliate links in this post, I may earn a small commission. Thanks for your support! I always offer unbiased opinions based on real experience from the road and trail. Learn more .

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.

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 bikepacking in a variety of countries 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.

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).

The absolute lightest tents will generally be ultralight back packing tents, usually single walled (more on this below) and trekking pole supported. You can still use them for bikepacking, even though most of us don’t bikepack with trekking poles, by purchasing a lightweight folding tent pole to use instead.

Here are a few popular ultralight tents for bikepacking. All weigh in at under 2 pounds. They vary in price from under $300 (Six Moon Designs is a great value) to over $800 (ZPacks is the premium pick).

• Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo
• Gossamer Gear The Two
• Zpacks Plex Solo
• ZPacks Free Duo / Trio

Gossamer Gear’s “The Two” is a popular ultralight tent at a reasonable price.

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.

Here are a number of popular tents with compact folding poles under 14″ (many are under 12″):

• Big Sky Soul 1P Bikepack
• Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack
• Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack 1 Person
• Big Sky Soul 2P Bikepack
• Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL (2, 3 person)
• Nemo Dragonfly Bikepack 2p
• Sea to Summit Telos Bikepack TR2 (2 person)
• Blacktail Hotel (2, 3 person)

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.

Related: How to Pack For Bikepacking

Freestanding, Maybe

A freestanding tent is one that doesn’t need stakes to maintain its structure. You might still choose to stake out the corners for stability, but it’s not critical. 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 stakes aren’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 still be less hassle than a trekking-pole style that needs 6-8 stakes.

These freestanding tents are good options for bikepackers:

• Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2 (most affordable)

You’ll notice a lot of overlap between that list of freestanding tents and the short pole tents listed above. This is because most bikepacking-specific tents have both these features, which are often more useful to bikepackers than backpackers.

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.

Here are a number of double wall tents popular with bikepackers, most of which are also freestanding:

• Big Agnes Fly Creek
• Hyke and Byke Yosemite 2

Single-wall tents are likely to be lighter, often pyramid-shaped, and sometimes supported by trekking poles or a standalone tent pole:

• Tarptent Double Rainbow

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.

Here are a few tents with especially stealthy coloring:

• Big Sky Soul 1P
• Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL (olive green color)

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.

It’s fairly rare to find bikepackers traveling with 4-season tents, because they’re often overkill for the types of conditions we can reasonably ride in (fat tire bikes excepted). When I do see bikepackers with a 4-season tent it’s often a tunnel-style tent like the Hilleberg Nallo .

Among double-walled 3-season 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 want to stretch the weather capabilities of your bikepacking tent.

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 bikepackers 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.

1 Person Bikepacking Tents

Now that you know the basics of what to look for in a bikepacking tent, let’s dive into some specific models. 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.

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

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.

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.

Most Affordable Bikepacking Tents

For those on a budget, here’s a selection of the best cheap (as in affordable, not low-quality) bikepacking tents available.

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:

• REI Used Gear
• Outdoor Gear Exchange

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 versatile 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, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve traveled over 20,000 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 about me here .

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3 thoughts on “Choosing a Bikepacking Tent: 9 Factors to Consider”

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.

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The Best Tents for Bikepacking and Cycling Tours: Your Home on the Road

A tent allows you to carry your home with you when bikepacking. Small pack size or low weight? Here’s what matters when choosing a tent for cycling tours.

Tents are the ultimate in terms of sleeping solutions while camping. The right tent means you’ll always have your home with you, even on a bikepacking tour or cycling trip. Tents are the optimal choice for weather protection against rain, storms or sand, offering privacy, mosquito netting and a lot of comfort while resting with little weight or a small pack size. Our buying guide shows you what to look for when shopping.

Quick to set up and sturdy: tents are your home away from home.

Find out what's important when choosing a tent for your bikepacking trip here.

What must a bikepacking tent do?

From festivals to arctic expeditions, there are tents for every conceivable need. On a bikepacking tour or cycling trip, however, a tent has to meet different criteria than at Glastonbury or the South Pole. That's why, when selecting our range, we made sure to offer you tents that work really well on your cycling adventure and still offer enough all-round utility for hiking or other tours.

• Small pack size: even with an extensive bag set-up , space is rather limited when bikepacking. When planning longer tours in cold or wet weather, the smaller the tent can be packed, the more flexibility you have with the rest of your luggage. Tents that can be packed down small offer significant advantages when mounted on a bike. If necessary, such a tent can even fit between the drops of road bike or gravel bike handlebars.
• Low weight: A winter-ready geodesic expedition tent for three or more people and wind stability for alpine storms can quickly exceed a weight of five kilograms. This is weight that can have a negative impact on your bike’s handling. If a tent you’re considering buying meets your requirements in all other ways, make sure to pay attention to weight. If you're travelling across difficult terrain or looking for the Fastest Known Time, you shouldn’t pass up an ultralight minimalist tent.
• Durability: If you are looking for adventure, your equipment must be able to keep up. If you venture into the wilderness often, you should look for durable and stable materials – even at the expense of weight, if necessary.

Tents with a small pack size are easy to stow. You can use the extra space for other things, or you can spare an additional bag on your bike. © bc GmbH

What are the construction principles of tents?

There are three basic construction principles for tents with certain advantages and disadvantages. There are also hybrid tents. However, not all tent designs are suitable for bikepacking. Even so, we’re going to go over everything for the sake of completion. Almost all tents have one thing in common: they are double-walled. The outer tent is waterproof and protects against rain, wind and snow. Underneath is an inner tent made of thin, breathable mesh fabric that protects you from mosquitoes and insects. The double-wall construction ensures, among other things, that moisture in the tent such as air, perspiration, ambient or ground moisture (e.g. if you are camping close to a body of water) only condenses on the outer tent and your inner tent stays nice and dry.

In addition to the actual living space, many tents also have an anteroom for luggage, the so-called vestibule. A vestibule does not have an inner tent and is ideal for things that need to be kept waterproof and safe overnight, but which you do not want to bring into the inner tent, such as bike shoes.

• Dome Tent, the Classic: in a dome tent, at least two pole arches cross over the tent floor to form a dome. Dome tents usually require a relatively small pitch and are self-supporting or even free-standing due to their construction. This means you need fewer pegs / anchor points to set it up stably, or in extreme cases you can do without them altogether. This is helpful, for example, when you can’t hammer pegs into hard ground. Due to their almost symmetrical shape, dome tents are more or less identical in terms of multi-directional wind stability. By the way, we recommend that you always unpeg the tent in windy conditions. On hot summer days, you can do without the outer tent cover on many dome tents and just pitch the inner tent as an airy (but no longer waterproof or opaque) shelter. Otherwise, you have to first pitch the inner tent and then throw the outer tent over it and fix it in place. Dome tents usually also stand out due to their large maximum interior height.
• Tunnel Tent, the Scandinavian Standby: In the "Friluftsliv paradise" of Scandinavia, tunnel tents are very popular. For this design, the tent poles are parallel to each other and do not cross. Tunnel designs are particularly advantageous in miserable (Scandinavian) weather because the inner tent can remain permanently attached to the outer tent and pitching is very quick and easy. Wind is not an issue, and the inside remains dry. When it comes to a weight-to-space ratio, tunnel tents often have the advantage. They are also very stable in windy conditions, but you should always place them with the front side facing into the wind during storms. However, tunnel tents require a larger amount of space than dome tents and are generally not free-standing.
• Hybrid, the Clever Solution: Combined forms of dome and tunnel tents are also called hybrids. One example is the "Tripod" layout from outdoor specialist VAUDE, where the two poles do not cross in the middle of the tent and which is used, for example, in the extremely lightweight Taurus SUL . A freestanding tent where the inner tent can remain attached – clever.
• Geodesics, for Extreme Use: Mentioned only for the sake of inclusion, geodesic tents play no role in bikepacking. They are a derivative of the dome tent, but here at least three poles cross at several points, which ensures extremely high stability in stormy weather and makes the tent able to withstand heavy snow. Basically, geodesic tents are used mainly for expeditions or extreme winter tours. As long as you don't want to compete in the Iditarod Trail Invitational with a fat bike, you shouldn’t consider cumbersome geodesic tents for bikepacking.

The inner tent is breathable and protects you from insects.

The outer tent protects you from rain and wind. Just a quick unwind: Ready for the night!

How do you make a tent waterproof?

Your tent should be waterproof. That much is clear. Basically, there are two principles to achieve this. On the one hand you have a waterproof coating with a polyurethane (PU) layer. On the other hand you have siliconisation.

The waterproof ability of tent fabrics is usually specified – analogous to rainwear – as a water column in millimetres. The water column is a standardised measurement of pressure which water exerts atop a given surface. The number indicates up to what column height a certain material is waterproof, which is not without controversy in the outdoor world since it ignores various environmental factors. Two different water columns are usually specified for a tent. One is the water column for the tent’s floor. Since your body weight exerts a lot of pressure on the material, such as kneeling on the tent floor, this value should be higher than for the outer tent. With a water column of 5,000 millimetres, you are on the safe side for the groundsheet; for the flysheet, values of around 3,000 millimetres are usual and sufficient, because no specific point forces the water through the material.

• Polyurethane coating: Here a waterproof PU layer is applied to the inside of the outer tent. The seams are sealed – as with rainwear – with a waterproof tape (seam tape sealant). The PU coating is reliably waterproof, abrasion-resistant, kink-resistant, easy to process and thus inexpensive. However, the PU ages due to sunlight (UV radiation) and the polyester backing material is less tear-resistant than siliconised nylon.
• Siliconised nylon: In this case, particularly durable and tear-resistant nylon is siliconised on both sides. The silicone coating has a high capacity for UV deflection, which makes it not only reliably waterproof but also very age-resistant. With conventional constructions, the seams are treated with liquid seam tape sealant, which you have to renew from time to time. As of April 2022, bc supplier VAUDE exclusively uses technologies in addition to the proven sealant, in which various layers of sil-nylon are bonded with silicone without seams (Siliconized Bonding) or connecting seams are taped with silicone (Silicone Seam Seal), thus making them very low-maintenance. Siliconised nylon has an advantage over PU-coated polyester in terms of weight, robustness and durability, but is more expensive due to its more complex processing.

An important factor in the choice of material: waterproof ability.

To prevent water from penetrating through the seams, VAUDE uses seams taped with silicone (Silicone Seam Seal).

Do you need a one-, two- or three-person tent?

The size of a tent is usually indicated by an estimate of how many people it can accommodate. In most cases, you can choose from a one-, two- or three-person tent. The interior length, width and height are of course more precise and can be found in the product descriptions. In addition to your body measurements, you can also use the length and width of your camping mat and sleeping bag as a guide .

A one-person tent offers flexibility on solo tours and saves you the trouble of hauling excess luggage. As a compromise, you can use a tent that offers (limited) space for two people in extreme cases and serves as a comfortable one-person tent when you’re traveling alone. For bikepacking, tents for up to two people have become popular because of their compact pack size. Larger tents are an advantage in worst-case scenarios, such as if you have to ride out bouts of harsh weather over multiple days. In addition, you can divide its parts among multiple people. For example, one person would then carry the poles in a frame bag and a second would carry the inner and outer tents in a handlebar roll. Otherwise, larger three- or multi-person tents are usually too big for bikepacking. Smaller tents also offer you more peace and privacy after an arduous day in the saddle.

Tip: Your tent should always be long enough so that your sleeping bag does not press the inner tent against the outer tent and get wet from the condensation that collects there. That can cost you heat. Read more in our buying guide for sleeping bags.

Bivy sacks, hammocks, tarps: Tent alternatives and their limitations

Among extreme bikepackers, tent alternatives such as tarps, bivy sacks and hammocks – or a combination thereof – are also popular because of their (theoretically) lower weight, higher flexibility and (in Germany) legal use for camping. What all items have in common, however, is the loss of visual protection – and thus privacy – as well as reduced weather protection. Tents are therefore unbeatable as all-rounders.

• Bivy Sack: The bivy sack is a waterproof and windproof cover for your sleeping bag. Originally used in mountaineering, they serve as emergency accommodation on mountain tours where there is no space for a tent. A bivy sack lets you sleep directly under the open sky, leaving you directly exposed to the elements. In addition, bivy sacks can quickly become damp on the inside due to nightly perspiration condensing directly over your sleeping bag. Your insulation can also be adversely affected as a result. Conclusion: An option for emergencies or the extremely gram-conscious cyclist.
• Hammock: Extremely popular in the outdoor world at the moment, the hammock is stretched between two suitable anchor points (usually trees). Comfort is a matter of personal taste. Some love it, others hate it. The fact is that a hammock is not helpful in alpine wastelands or in a meadow. On the plus side, you don't sleep on the floor and are safe from insects. However, your body can cool down rather quickly due to the lack of a solid surface underneath.

Tip: If you add the weight and pack size of a tarp to that of a bivy sack or hammock, the result is usually not much lighter or more compact than a tent. The tent is and remains a nearly-perfect all-rounder, while the bivy sack, hammock and tarp are a special choice for rugged individualists.

Handling and care of your bikepacking tent

With proper care, high-quality tents are dependable companions for many years. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind on the road and at home.

On the road:

• It is best to find a place with level ground and make sure to remove foreign objects such as sharp stones before pitching the tent.
• Try to make sure the tent is packed as dry as possible. Water can be shaken off easily from siliconised nylon in particular. Make sure that the inner tent does not get wet while you're packing it.
• When dismantling the tent, push the poles out of the channels instead of pulling on them. Otherwise you will pull the segments apart, which can lead to time-consuming complications. Speaking of poles: Even the best pole can break under load or if handled incorrectly. This is why you should always keep a repair sleeve and some duct tape on hand.
• When packing, make sure that sharp or hard objects such as poles or pegs do not damage the tent.
• Dismantle the inner and outer tent and dry both parts thoroughly.
• It is best to remove dirt such as sand, pine needles or small stones from the inner tent before drying.
• If the outer tent is dirty, clean it carefully with lukewarm water and a soft brush. Special tent detergents can remove stubborn dirt.
• When the tent is clean and dry, you can store it in its original carrying bag. Make sure it is dry and protected from light.

Footnote: Defining a legal campsite

Have you found the perfect tent for your needs? Congratulations! Before setting off on an adventure, bear in mind that wilderness camping is almost always forbidden in Germany, while using a bivy sac, i.e. a night in the open air without special structures, is usually tolerated. However, the legal definition of camping is complicated, can vary from one state to another and can be entirely different in neighbouring states. Nature reserves and national parks should generally be off-limits because of their importance for nature conservation. We have compiled a code of conduct for respectful treatment of nature when bikepacking here.

• Discover tents for your bikepacking adventure!

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Trading Space for Comfort: Gear for a Semi-Minimalist Bike Tour

Space (and weight) versus comfort is a tricky (and expensive) battle that we cyclocampers fight regularly. Tents, sleeping bags and pads make up the majority of heft and bulk that has to be packed and stowed. In an effort to go as ultralight as possible for an upcoming trip, with minimal luggage, I put together a kit using The Mother of Comfort.

PUBLISHED Oct 24, 2013

There are many forms of cycle touring that differ by the type of luggage used, nature of the terrain covered and the amount of gear carried. On our last tour we were ‘fully loaded’ with four panniers per bike, and then some. While we were still able to push these weighty rigs through some mountain biking style routes, we decided to make our next tour more about ride and route quality than quantity. In December we depart on a trip through South and eastern Africa, and our plan is to bikepack with as little gear as possible, light enough to have fun exploring some off-road routes, but still have the gear to camp comfortably. Because we’ll be covering a lot of ground, we also intend to skip some of the big monotonous stretches by relying on a few rides as well as a train or two. This mountain-hitchbiking method of touring requires careful consideration of gear and luggage. Space is key for a bikepacking setup, as well as ease of public transport, and sleeping gear is always the capacity hog. In a previous post I mentioned sleeping pad options for bike touring ; we’ll both be taking the Big Agnes Q-Core Superlight pads stowed in fork-mounted cages to cut down the bulk in our saddlebags. Through trial and review we’ve settled on tents and sleeping bags as well; here’s what I’ve found:

Tents for Bike Touring, Bikepacking and In Between

For two people traveling over several months, a solid and spacious tent is a must. There are couples that tour and get by with two-man tents, but in my opinion, a two-person tent is really a one-person tent. This is especially obvious when attempting to stow gear inside. Not to mention if it is 90 plus degrees outside, close quarters are none to pleasant. Here are my comparisons and contrasts regarding three tents, as well as the reasoning for choosing the one that’s going with us:

Big Agnes Copper Spur UL3 – Perfect Tent for a Big, Loaded Bike Tour

2,128 grams or 4.69 lbs / 7″ x 22″ packed / 44 sq ft interior / 9 sq ft vestibule

The Copper Spur is a fairly popular option amongst bike tourists, because of its large floor plan within a fairly lightweight package. It is, in fact, the most spacious three-person option within Big Agnes’ ultralight and superlight lines. The most pleasant feature, that makes it perfect for a couple, is the fact that each person can lay claim to their own door and vestibule. When folks are traveling together for an extended period of time, it’s nice to retain some personal space.

Although the Copper Spur is made from thin and ultralight materials, it proved to be very tough on our tour of Mexico and Central America. However, we decided not to bring it on our upcoming trip for the sake of packing space. I plan to carry a tent, or at least part of it, within the long flap of a saddle bag, and the Copper Spur UL3 is just too bulky.

Another small con worth mentioning about this tent is that it’s fairly difficult to maneuver in and out of it’s shallow doors and encumbering vestibules. But, that’s camping, and that’s just one of those sacrifices you make for the weight savings. It’s perfect for a fully loaded tour and served us well in Mexico and Central America.

Big Agnes Fly Creek UL3 – Solid Tent for Lightweight Adventure Cycling

1662 grams or 3.66 lbs / 6″ x 19″ packed / 39 sq ft interior / 12.5 sq ft vestibule

I was torn between the Fly Creek UL3 and the Slater UL2+, but after erecting them both and wallowing around in their not-so-vast chambers, this is the one. The UL3 has a nice long and spacious layout, but it’s shining star are the steep sidewalls and front door. The Fly Creek also has a larger vestibule that the two on the Copper Spur combined.

One thing that immediately impressed me was the inner clip system that attaches to the rain fly, then allows it to be pulled and staked to create a perfect space between the fly and the tent body. One issue I found with the Copper Spur was that it was rather difficult to get it set up perfectly taught; on several rainy occasions the fly brushed the tent mesh causing water to wick inside. I don’t think that will be a problem with the Fly Creek.

Another plus to note is that the rain fly is a neutral color that will blend in with the surroundings when wild camping. There are a view pieces of orange trim, but it’s not nearly as loud as the Slater.

Big Agnes Slater UL2+ – Great Minimalist Shelter for Bikepacking

1361 grams or 3 bs / 5″ x 18″ packed / 37 sq ft interior / 8 sq ft vestibule

For short trips, a tarp or fast-fly setup could work, but if bugs run amok or there is threat of significant rainfall, a tent it is. The Slater UL 2+ is almost as minimal a two-part tent as you can get and is perfect for short bikepacking trips. As much as I love the idea of this minimal shelter, I just couldn’t talk myself into using it for our Africa trip. The low sidewalls leave you feeling pretty constricted. Again, fine for a few nights, but for several months it could get old. Also the fact that it requires stakes to setup would make it difficult in the off chance we had to set it up inside, or on a concrete pad (both of those situations presented themselves in Central America). Another con for wild camping is the fact that the rain fly is orange which could attract attention.

I will be taking it out this weekend and will learn how it works on a full-suspension bikepacking setup. I’ll also have the pleasure of seeing how it fares in sub-freezing temps. One plus for the Slater line is instead of having a large percentage of mesh on the main tent body, they use a very thin ripstop nylon, which adds a little more warmth, and makes it almost a 3+ season tent. At 5×18″, the Slater packs up tiny considering it has 37 square feet of interior space.

Another plus for the the Slater is that with ripstop nylon replacing mesh, although not thoroughly tested, it seems like it could be tougher in the long run.

Two Ultralight Down Sleeping bags for Bikepacking or Bike Touring

These two down sleeping bags from Big Agnes pack fairly small and weigh in super light. I’ve spent a fair share of nights in each of these bags and have been impressed. For our trip to Africa in December, I’ll be packing the Pitchpine and Gin, who’s a little more cold-natured, will be using the Lost Lake.

Big Agnes Pitchpine UL 45

45 degree rating / 567 grams or 20 oz / 6″ x 15″ / 78″ model

I bought the Pitchpine for our Central America Tour and have used it in both ridiculously hot temps and below freezing. At 20oz/567 grams, this bag is a featherweight, and there are a few reasons why. One is the fact that there is no bottom-side insulation. You must depend on the R-factor of your sleeping pad. But that is not a bad thing. It actually made room for Big Agnes to add a generous 72.5″ girth to the shoulder area so you don’t feel like a mummy while you sleep. The sleeve on the bottom is designed to fit a 20″ wide sleeping pad so it doesn’t slide out from under the bag during the night. The other thing missing from the Pitchpine is a hood, typical of mummy style bags. It’s a warmer weather bag, so there is just no reason to have a hood.

This bag comes in a 6×15″ stuff sack, but can easily be compressed into a 5L dry bag at about 5×12″, which is the perfect size for a fork-mount Anything cage.

In temps ranging from 40-80 degrees, this bag is perfect. There were a few nights where it got rather sticky in the heat, as does any sleeping bag. And there have been a couple nights where it got below freezing and I was slightly chilled even wearing a wool under layer. Not an ideal bag for winter bikepacking, but perfect for a tour during the other three seasons in moderate climates.

Big Agnes Lost Lake SL 30

30 degree rating / 850 grams or 30 oz / 6″ x 15″ / 72″ model

There are lighter bags in this category and price range. Barely. The 6′ model weighs about 30oz/850g. But, some old-school tricks and new school tech make up for the few extra grams. The Lost Lake SL has a full-length big #8 zipper, which you don’t see very often, but is nice when it’s warmer than anticipated. The Big Agnes proprietary DownTek™ purportedly keeps the moisture out of the stuffing during damp nights. I haven’t tested it in a wet environment, but if it acts as claimed, it’s a great feature. A wet bag is a heavy bag.

The sleeping bag is very well baffled and seems to maintain heat from head to toe. My wife, who is pretty cold natured when sleeping, kept very toasty and comfortable during a recent night in Vermont where it got close to freezing.

The bag comes in a stuff sack that’s 8×17.5″ and doesn’t quite compress into a 5L Sea To Summit River Bag, but still gets small enough to work on a fork-mount cage.

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Best Tent for Bike Touring: Comprehensive Guide and Top Picks for 2023

SUMMARY: The best tent for bike touring combines light weight, compactness, and durability. Just about any backpacking tent will do! We like the ALPS Engineering Zephyr, the Big Agnes Tiger Claw, and the premium Vango F10!

Ever struggled to find the best tent for a bike touring experience? 🚲⛺

Feared you might have to resign yourself to being the butt of Bigfoot jokes after a night in an ill-suited, cramped shelter? 🦶🤣

Fear not, this blog post is here to save the day (and potentially spare you some unflattering nicknames)! Here’s what we’ll unravel:

• Why the right kind of shelter can make your bike touring so much nicer (and why Bigfoot would agree 😂)
• What exactly should you put on your checklist when choosing your biking companion tent 🗒
• A curated list of the top five tents that have been tried, tested, and bike-tourist-approved 🏕
• Tips on how to maintain your tent so it can outlast all your epic biking adventures 🛠

Get ready to find out just how refreshing your bike tour rest stops can be! 💪😎

Why You Need the Best Tent for Bike Touring

Ever felt like a contortionist, trying to fit yourself into a supposedly “spacious” bike tent? Or maybe you’ve spent a night feeling like you’re that cooked piece of pasta clinging to the side of the pot, soaked and miserable in your leaky shelter? 🍝🎪

Yeah, we’ve been there. Choosing the right tent while embarking on a bike tour is as important as picking the perfect playlist for your journey. (We all know that one mate who brings a playlist stuffed with Celine Dion and ABBA, don’t we? 🦜🎵)

Let’s put it this way:

• The right tent can turn your trip from a soggy slog (think, biking alley cats during a monsoon) to a comfy stroll in the park.
• It’s the guardian of your sweet dreams and the knight against all those creepy crawlies who just love to invade your space. 🐜🕷
• A bike-friendly tent makes a real difference when it comes to packing up. It’s the difference between a hassle-free 5-minute job and a 2-hour wrestling match with a canvas and poles. (Round 1… fight!) 🥊💥

In essence, your tent is the silent, uncelebrated hero of your bike touring party. So, let’s pay rightful tribute by choosing wisely and thanking the sleeping-in-comfort gods. 🏕🦸‍♂️

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Tent for Bike Touring

When it comes to selecting the best tent for bike touring, it’s crucial to consider a variety of factors. Here are few key points that every bike tourist should keep in mind: weight, size, durability, setup ease, and weather resistance.

• The weight of your tent is paramount when bike touring. Remember, you’ll be hauling this tent on your bike so a lighter tent could make a significant difference.
• From personal experience, maintaining balance in your packing is critical, and heavy tents can tilt your balance off.
• You need to consider the size of the packed tent. It should be compact enough to carry on your bike without trouble.
• A small anecdote: During one of our bike tours, we had the misfortune of over-packing a tent that was too big for our bikes. The result? A few ‘wobbly’ moments and a few scratches.
• Bike touring is a rough and tumble excursion, so your tent should be robust to withstand possible rough conditions.
• I once owned a beautiful, lightweight tent that couldn’t stand up to the gusty winds we experienced while bike touring. We were forced to spend a chilly night without shelter!
• You should be able to set up your tent quickly and easily. After a long day on the bike, the last thing you want is to grapple with a complicated tent setup.
• My quickest record of setting up a tent is 7 minutes flat. It was a lifesaver when raindrops started beating upon us heavily.

Weather Resistance

• A tent capable of withstanding various weather conditions is vital. It should be windproof and waterproof, but also breathable for warmer conditions.
• My golden rule is: always prepare for the worst when it comes to weather. We have braved storms and scorching sun all in one trip. Trust me, a good weather-resistant tent can really save your day.

In the end, the best tent for bike touring is a balanced blend of these factors. It’s all about picking priorities and making compromises based on your specific needs. Trust your gut, and think about the kind of journey you want to embark on.

3 Tents for Bike Touring

Choosing the right tent can make or break your bike touring experience. Here are my top five tent recommendations, based on personal experience and a dash of humor.

ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent

• Quality: High-quality stitching, materials, and poles. The tent has proven to be durable in various conditions.
• Setup: Freestanding design allows for quick and easy setup.
• Size: Suitable for two people, but might feel snug for larger individuals.
• Weather Resistance: Holds up well in storms and rainy conditions. Some users mentioned its ability to stay dry even in heavy rain.
• Ventilation: Designed for wind resistance, but there might be some issues with sealing the tent to the ground, allowing wind to get underneath.
• Features: Two roomy vestibules on each side, all-mesh doors for easy access, and additional storage options inside.
• Weight: Slightly on the heavier side for a backpacking tent but manageable when shared between two people.
• Price: Offers great value for its price, making it a cost-effective choice for campers.

Bottom Line: The ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 2-Person Tent is a reliable and well-constructed tent that offers excellent value for its price. It’s suitable for various conditions and is especially recommended for those looking for a combination of durability, features, and affordability.

PREMIUM PICK: Vango F10 Project Hydrogen Air – Alpine Green

The Vango F10 Project Hydrogen Air is a 1-person ultra-light dome tent, touted as the world’s lightest two-skin tent with air jet technology. This technology enhances the tent’s strength and stability, allowing for quick setup and a highly compressible structure.

Key Features:

• Material: Made with PROTEX 7D Double Silicone (2000MM HH) for the outer tent and 7D breathable material for the interior.
• Setup: The tent can be set up in one go, both the outer and inner tent simultaneously. It also packs quickly.
• AirBeam Technology: This provides a strong and rigid tent structure combined with a very easy and fast pitching time.
• Compact: The tent is small when folded, making it easy to store and carry.
• Inflation: Comes with a Shrader Valve that can be inflated quickly using a bicycle pump or compressed air cartridge.
• Protection: The tent is designed to keep you dry under all circumstances, with mesh vents in the exterior tent for airflow and insect protection.
• Additional Features: It includes a functional awning for dry storage, ultralight titanium pegs, and a carbon upright pole that is short, strong, and lightweight.

Price: USD 469.95 (Discounted from USD 784.95) Yeah, it’s a lot 💰

Bottom Line: The Vango F10 Project Hydrogen Air is an innovative tent designed for those who prioritize weight and efficiency. Its unique air jet technology and high-quality materials make it a top choice for solo backpackers and hikers. The tent’s design ensures durability, protection from the elements, and ease of use, all while being ultra-lightweight.

Big Agnes Tiger Wall

Here’s another fantastic option right on Amazon (also quite expensive though).

This one packs down small enough, but is much larger than your average 1-person dome tent!

Tips for Maintaining Your Tent while Bike Touring

A good tent can be a savior on your bike tour, but only if you take good care of it. Here are few tips to keep your tent in top condition while you venture into the great outdoors.

Keeping It Clean

• The cleanliness of your tent can play a significant role in its longevity.
• After one trek where my tent ended up looking like it had been in a mud wrestling match, I learned to always shake out any dirt or leaves before packing it up.

Proper Packing

• How you store your tent can affect its lifespan.
• Don’t just stuff your tent back into its bag. Ensure it’s dry and clean, and try to pack it lightly without crushing it. I once packed my tent in a hurry during a downpour, only to find it moldy on my next adventure.

Small Repairs

• Regular checks and minor repairs can prevent bigger issues in the future.
• A duct tape can temporarily fix small rips and tears. Quick fixes after one tour can save you from the disaster of a ripped tent on the next.

Ventilation

• Ventilating your tent can prevent condensation which eventually leads to mold and mildew.
• On a tour in humid weather, my buddy didn’t ventilate his tent properly. He woke up soaked from the condensation, not the best start to a day!

Remember, a little care goes a long way in maintaining your tent. After all, it’s not just a tent; it’s your home away from home on the trail.

Choosing the right tent for bike touring is incredibly crucial. The tent you select can considerably elevate your camping experience by ensuring comfort and security, or it can ruin your trip if it’s not suited to your needs. As a seasoned bike tourist, I can’t stress enough how vital it is to invest time and effort into finding the best tent for bike touring.

My personal journey has seen me through a variety of tents, and through trial and error, I’ve found the ones that work best for me. In this blog post, I’ve shared those options in the hope they help you find your perfect fit. Lastly, remember that a tent is a long-term investment and taking good care of it, will only extend and enhance your bike touring adventures.

Bike Tent FAQs

What’s the best lightweight tent for bike touring.

In my experience, Tent A is an excellent option for a lightweight tent. Its minimal weight and size make it convenient for biking, and it still offers a high level of comfort and weather resistance.

Can I use my regular camping tent for bike touring?

Yes, you can use your regular camping tent for bike touring. However, keep in mind that these are usually larger and heavier, which may prove troublesome when you need to cycle long distances or up steep hills.

What should I do if my tent gets ripped during my tour?

Investing in a tent repair kit before you set off on your tour is a good idea. This way, if your tent gets ripped, you can patch it up and continue your adventure without needing to find a replacement.

How do I set up my tent quickly when it’s raining?

Time is of the essence when setting up your tent in the rain. Practice setting it up at home so you’re familiar with the process. It’s also helpful to have a rainfly or tarp to put up first to provide cover while you set up the rest of the tent.

Ultralight Bikepacking Tents – MSR FreeLight, Marmot Superalloy

How light is right for a bikepacking tent.

My first bikepacking tent was an REI Half Dome —a roomy two-person tent with two doors and a bomber build that handles rainy nights and gusty thunderstorms with ease. But at 4.75 pounds, it’s not exactly an ultralight tent. Nonetheless, I packed it for several multi-day bikepacking trips, including the Oregon Outback , and always appreciated its interior space, weather protection and easy setup.

REI Half Dome 2-Person Tent

However, since those early bike adventures, I’ve worked to lighten my bikepacking setup. As much as the REI Half Dome tent served me well, it’s a big tent to carry on a bike. I’ve been able to trim pounds of weight and significantly reduce the overall volume of my bikepacking kit by upgrading to an ultralight bikepacking tent.

Lightweight Versus Ultralight Tents

Choosing a bikepacking tent is just like choosing a lightweight backpacking tent. Once you’ve decided whether you need a one-person or two-person tent, key factors to consider are packability, durability and how well it withstands the elements. Your available storage space, riding ambitions, weather and bug protection needs, plus the amount of money you are willing to part with, will all guide your choices.

When weather, bugs and critters are of limited concern, the lightest weight shelter option will always be a minimalist tarp or floorless single pole style shelter . Tarp shelters are the go-to option for gram counters and ultra-endurance racers. But simple tarp shelters are not always practical. More often than not, concerns like mosquitos, midges, and foul weather are a reality, and a fully enclosed tent is your best option.

Generally, bikepacking tents fall into two broad categories: Lightweight and Ultralight. Looking at two-person tents, lightweight refers to tents like the REI Half Dome that weigh four to five pounds. The weight and volume are manageable when split between two people, and these tents work best for bikepacking when using small rear panniers and or a rear rack for storage.

The two-person ultralight tent category includes tents that generally tip the scales in the two to three-pound range. These tents pack small and are decidedly minimalist in feel and design. If you’re traveling in true go-light bikepacker fashion with only a frame, handlebar and seat pack on your bike, an ultralight tent is the way to go.

Short of moving to a tarp shelter , there aren’t many full tents that weigh under two pounds. They exist — but as with most ultralight gear choices, there is a trade-off in durability and features. And when it comes to tents, durability is directly related to the ability to withstand foul weather.

The Best Ultralight Bikepacking Tents

After using a variety of tents over the last few years, two ultralight bikepacking tents stand out: the MSR FreeLight and the Marmot Superalloy . Both are available as two-person tents and weigh under the three-pound mark. The Marmot Superalloy weighs 2 lb 10 oz / 1080 grams, and the MSR FreeLight weighs 2 lbs 3 oz / 1000 grams (weights include stuff sacks, poles, stakes, cordage and patch kit).

It’s possible to find a two-person tent that shaves a few more ounces off your load, but the MSR and Marmot tents offer a reasonable balance between weight, durability and cost. 

The MSR FreeLight 2-Person Ultralight Tent for Bikepacking

The MSR FreeLight 2-Person tent is impressive. It’s Marmot’s lightest 2-person tent and is full-featured with two doors, decent headroom and well-placed interior mesh pockets to keep you organized for the night.

Like most ultralight tents, it’s semi-freestanding, which means the poles give it structure and shape, but it requires staking out to maximize the floor space and create a usable setup.

The pole structure uses a simple Y-shaped central pole plus a small cross-bar pole. The body is mainly mesh with a typical bathtub-style floor. It’s easy to set up and reasonably robust, given the somewhat delicate feel of the mesh and nylon materials. Weighing just over two pounds (2lb 3oz as weighed in the bag), the FreeLight is one of the lightest two-door tents on the market.

MSR FreeLight without the rain fly

Where does MSR save weight?

The first thing you’ll notice when setting up the FreeLight is it just feels light and, dare I say, delicate. Like most lightweight tents, weight savings come from many things: pole configuration, body and fly materials, ultralight cordage and mini stakes. The FreeLight saves a few ounces, in part due to its rainfly design. The rainfly is cropped on one end, saving on material use and shaving a few ounces. As a result, the head end of the tent runs a full nylon panel higher than the mesh on the rest of the tent.

In use, the tent works great. The setup is simple. The zippers feel great. The zipper length limits door access, but there is still plenty of room to enter and exit. There’s plenty of venting, thanks to the mostly micro-mesh walls.

Despite its lightweight feel, the FreeLight has weathered multiple bikepacking trips with no obvious issues and has handled modest wind with ease. I have yet to weather a blustery rain storm to thoroughly test its weather protection. However, it did pass the yard sprinkler test without issue. Nonetheless, this is what I would call a two-season tent. 

How’s the Interior Space?

While not exactly roomy, the MSR FreeLight is on par with any other ultralight two-person tent for space. Its overall footprint is a true rectangle and measures 84 inches x 50 inches, offering 29 square feet of space. The headroom height is 39 inches. It’s a shoulder-to-shoulder situation inside the tent for two average-sized adults, but it’s still very livable. 

The double vestibule adds about another 15 square feet in total.  The double door design and, thus, individual vestibule space for each person is key to having extra personal space. There’s just enough room for keeping your shoes, helmet and a small bag under each vestibule. 

The poles are compact, though not necessarily designed with bikepacking in mind. Folded pole length is 19 inches, which gives you options for where to stow them.

The tent is factory seam-sealed and includes stakes and guy lines for a proper setup. There is an optional 40-denier nylon groundsheet. If you’re into saving grams (and cash), we recommend sourcing a scrap piece of Tyvek house wrap and cutting it to match the tent footprint as your groundsheet.  

Light and Fully Featured

The Marmot FreeLight checks all the ultralight tent boxes. It’s light. It’s easy to set up. It packs down small. And it’s fully featured for an ultralight design with two doors and nice internal pockets. It’s a solid choice for bikepacking (or backpacking).

Check price and availability of the MSR FreeLight direct from MSR – $450

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The Marmot Superalloy 2-Person Ultralight Tent for Bikepacking

Marmot Superalloy ultralight bikepacking tent

The Superalloy is Marmot’s lightest two-person tent. Like the MSR FreeLight, it’s a semi-freestanding design, which means that while the poles do give it structure and shape, it requires staking out to maximize the floor space and create a stable setup.

The setup is pretty simple. It features a long, Y-shaped pole similar to the MSR FreeLight, plus a separate overhead cross pole. The body is made almost entirely of mesh with a typical bathtub-style floor. Color-coded tabs make connecting the fly easy, and integrated line tensioners help make it taught.

Inside the Ultralight Superalloy

The Superalloy is a two-door tent, which means there’s vestibule space on both sides to stow a bike bag or two and your shoes. The footprint has a slightly trapezoidal shape and measures 87 inches x 42 – 50 inches. The total interior space is 28 square feet, which is adequate, though not exactly spacious for two average-size adults. 

Inside, the near-vertical walls help create space, but headroom is limited to 39 inches. A few mesh pockets help with internal organization, though the side pockets are at an odd angle that kind of encourages stuff to slide out. An overhead pocket works well for small stuff like a headlamp, watch or deck of cards.

Like the MSR FreeLight, the poles are relatively compact, though not designed specifically for bikepacking. At 18.5 inches folded, they can be stowed in multiple locations on most bikepacking setups.

Lightweight Materials

While the mesh body and fly material feel light and delicate, the tent has withstood repeated weeklong trips with no rips, punctures or split seams of any sort. It has been used exclusively with a ground cloth, and while I haven’t abused the tent, I haven’t babied it either. It has weathered damp nights with good results for such a lightweight build.

Bikepacking Minimalism

The Marmot Superalloy’s minimalist design maintains all the functionality you need for lightweight bikepacking adventures. It comes seam-sealed and ready to use with all the stakes and guy lines you need for a proper setup. The footprint is available separately. 

Check prices and availability of the Marmot Superalloy ultralight bikepacking tent – $430

Planning a bikepacking trip? Check out all of our bikepacking gear reviews : Salsa Everything Cage Review Salsa Handlebar Bag Review Ortlieb Handlebar Bag Review Platypus Waterfilter Review Portable Solar Panel Review Showers Pass Apex MTB Pants Review Tubeless Tire Setup Tips

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The Best Tents for Bikers

If you’re planning on touring and considering a night or two under the stars, finding a decent tent that’s compact enough to transport on a motorbike can be tough. Not only do you have the standard tent construction to consider but you need to think about weight, storing bike kit (that’s usually wet!) and keeping your bike close by.

Thankfully, the market for motorcycle touring tents is enjoying a bit of a surge. We used to only have a couple of choices for lightweight tents but with modern materials getting better, tents are getting lighter and more companies are producing motorcycle-specific versions with bikers’ needs in mind.

Some tents even come with garage sections to park your bike overnight, while others provide larger vestibules for storing your panniers and kit outside of the main sleeping area but still protected from the elements.

Standard Tent Buyer’s Checklist

When you’re buying any tent, these are the features you’ll want to have:

• Wind and waterproof flysheet
• Groundsheet
• Breathable inner tent (to stop condensation)
• Sturdy poles
• Strong guylines

A Biker’s Basic Tent Buying Criteria

• How many people does it sleep?
• What’s it physical when packed?
• How much does it weight?
• How much does it cost?
• Can you park your bike in it?

We’ve answered these questions in our easy-to-read key stats for each of our picks below.

Motorcycle Tent: Additional Features To Consider

If you’re buying a tent for the bike, you have to think about how you’re going to carry it and what you want it to be able to do, over and above a ‘normal’ tent.

Pack size: the tent needs to be small enough to fit in your panniers, top box or strapped behind your seat.

Porch/vestibule: A large area separate to the sleeping quarters to place your helmets and other gear overnight.

Weight: Unlike camping with a car to transport your equipment, choosing a lightweight tent will limit the load on your bike.

Of course, if you’re only planning on roughing it for one night, you could always pick up this dome tent for £15; but don’t expect fantastic weatherproofing!

We’ve picked some of the best tents for motorcyclists, to suit any budget and carrying requirements.

Coleman Cortes 2

• Capacity: 2 persons 
• Dimensions: L3.6m, W1.2m, H1.05m
• Pack size: 38x15cm
• Weight: 3.5kg
• Price: £109.99
• Can you park a motorcycle inside: No

This tent is a complete bargain. It’s a 3-pole tunnel tent with a large porch area for storing your helmet, luggage, and wet boots.

It sleeps two and yet it’s lightweight and it packs down into a really compact size and weighs just 3.5kg. It’s small enough to easily stow in your motorcycle pannier to be strapped to your pillion seat. Claimed to be 100% waterproof, with taped seams for extra protection. Some owners claim it’s not that well made and that’s a common complaint when it comes to cheap tents but as long as you’re careful when erecting it, it should last a good few outings.

It’s not quite big enough for you to park your motorcycle completely inside but you could back a good half of the bike into the porch area to keep it close by. This Coleman Cortes 2 tent is a great choice if your budget is on the small side or you’re just off for a couple of nights and don’t want to shell out on something a bit fancier.

SehrGo Professional Backpacking Tent

• Capacity: Up to 4 persons 
• Dimensions: L2.24m, W2.03m, H1.35m (centre height)
• Pack size: 45x16cm
• Weight: 3kg
• Price: £130

If you’re after a bargain, a simple dome tent big enough for 4 will fit 2 riders plus all their gear nicely; and it’ll take you a maximum of 10 minutes to put up. While it does have a porch of sorts, you’ll want to zip this closed at night This example has a separate vestibule for gear so you’ll be more comfortable in the sleeping area. The pack size is compact and will happily fit in a large pannier or top box.

Highlander Blackthorn 1 Tent

• Capacity: 1 person
• Dimensions: L2.65m, W1.70m, H0.75m (centre height)
• Pack size: 40x12cm
• Weight: 1.5kg
• Price: £79.95

If you’re going it alone and don’t mind missing out on the headroom, this compact and lightweight adventure tent is about as small as it gets. But check out the dimensions because it is very compact.

It takes less than 5 minutes to put up. Also, it has a side storage area for your gear. With robust steel pegs and flexible fibreglass poles, it can withstand a windy night too.

Reviewers question the build quality and waterproofing but if you’ve only got one trip planned and you just want somewhere to lay down (pass out?) for the night, this’ll do the job.  It’s about the lightest motorcycle tent you can buy.

Khyam Biker Tent

• Capacity: 3 persons
• Dimensions: L4.00m, W11.95m, H1.25m (centre height)
• Pack size: 60x20cm
• Weight: 6.6kg
• Price: £349.99

Designed for bikers but you can’t park a bike in it, the Khyam Biker is a three-man tent but has plenty of room for two bikers. With side pockets within the sleeping area for your items, a large porch area to fit your stuff and enough headroom to be comfortable, this tent is worth the price.

Designed with a Quick Erect System, the poles are sewn into the flysheet, so the tent is up within seconds. The only downside, the packed tent is large, and the weight may be too much for some but it gets a RiDE magazine recommendation, which some bikers will value.

Vango Galaxy 300

• Dimensions: L4.40m, W2.60m, H1.90m (porch height)
• Pack size: 55x22cm
• Weight: 5.5kg

A favourite amongst bikers for its large vestibule at the front, low ceiling sleeping area to keep in the warmth and stability, the Galaxy 300 is a good 3 season tent.

You could get a folding chair (and a table!) in the porch, meaning it’ll be a decent place to hang out if the weather’s terrible. You can also back park of your bike into the tent, giving you something to hang your kit on and a bit more peace of mind.

The only downside is, the pack size on a little large for storing in panniers and having seen the feedback from owners, it takes a good half hour to erect!

Wingman of the Road - Goose

• Dimensions: L2.00m, W0.75m, H0.70m (centre height)
• Wing length: 1.25m
• Pack size: 63x34cm
• Weight: 10kg
• Price: £320

It may only be made for one, but the Goose is a well thought out, handy piece of kit. Fully waterproof canvas outer construction with a large wing that attaches to your bike for a canopy.

If you thought the pack weight was bulky, that’s because it comes complete with a high-density foam mattress and built-in sleeping bag, meaning you don’t have to worry about any extra weight and storage space.

We like the ethos behind this tent; made from quality old-school materials that are built to last, it might be a bit on the heavy side but its makers claim it’ll last more than 20 years. 

Terra Nova Starlite 3 Tent

• Capacity: 3 persons 
• Dimensions: L3.8m, W1.6m, H1.02m
• Pack size: 29x16cm
• Weight: 2.38kg
• Price: £650

If you’re touring with more gear, investing in a 3 person tent could be the answer thanks to the extra space in the sleeping area. The Redvarz Atacama Expedition is another great tent that provides security for your bike as you can partially park it in the porch area.

With a compact size, it fits nicely on your rack/top box ready for your next trip. The motorcycle bay is large enough to fit the back half of an adventure bike, including its panniers. The solid frame does well in windy conditions, and the seams have been treated to prevent leaks. A lot of what you’re paying for is the weight – or lack of it. If you’re looking for a lightweight motorcycle tent, this is a decent option.

TENTS YOU CAN PARK A MOTORCYCLE IN

Some bikers like the idea of being able to park their motorcycle in their tent. It’s not just a posing thing, I can see the logic. You can zip the tent up and keep your bike away from prying eyes. You can keep the bike closer to you, so you don’t have to worry about it overnight and tents that can store a motorcycle have a parge porch, meaning you can hang your kit on the bike, to dry it off.

Lone Rider MOTOTENT

• Capacity: 2 persons + 1 bike
• Dimensions: L4.15m, W2.4m, H1.90m (centre height)
• Weight: 5.44kg
• Price: £450
• Can you park a motorcycle inside: Yes

This tent might be expensive, but it’s designed to house 1 – 2 riders plus an adventure size bike WITH panniers. The large canopy area has full zips to protect your privacy and your bike from the elements. The large sleeping area will fit 2 people plus additional gear, and a handy vestibule is suitable for leaving your wet gear. Set up is claimed to take under 10 minutes while the large space allows persons over 6” to stand comfortably.

Redverz Atacama Expedition Tent

• Capacity: 3 persons + 1 bike
• Dimensions: L4.9m, W2.5m, H1.9m (centre height)
• Pack size: 53x23cm
• Weight: 6kg
• Price: £539

So small, this tent folds down to 29cm long so it would fit inside a large top box or pannier no problem. The weight is incredibly light for a 3 person tent which does make you wonder about its durability.

The Starlite 3 is suitable for spring to autumn and features a mesh net to protect you from the dreaded midges. The manufacturer’s claim that pitching time is under 10 minutes but having read some owner reviews, many say that it’s very hard to pitch single-handedly, so if you’re travelling solo, maybe this isn’t the tent for you.

Complete with a large porch area that is suitable for storing your helmet, panniers or rolling your bike in for more security and to hang your kit on.

Nordkap Double-Walled Tunnel Tent

• Capacity: 2 people + bike
• Dimensions: L4.15m, W2.4m, H2.0m (centre height)
• Pack size: 61x22cm
• Weight: 8kg
• Price: £155

This tent gets mixed reviews, with many saying the quality of the fabric isn’t great and that it can tear or perish fairly easily. We put it in this guide as it’s cheap (at around £150) and not everyone has £500 to spend on a tent. If you only want to use it a few times, you’re not planning on battling monsoon conditions and you’re able to pack it away carefully, then it’ll be up to the job. It’s roomy enough to park a bike in and store your kit.

Why smaller isn’t always better

When it comes to touring, the gut-feeling is that you can’t afford to take up unnecessary space. So lots of bikers shop for the smallest, lightest tent they can find.

There’s one major issue with a small tent.

If the weather’s rubbish, you’re going to be wet and you’ll have to stash all of your wet kit in your tent with you, which will be unpleasant at best. Your kit probably won’t dry out overnight and you’ll be sleeping in a bubble of rancid humidity.

The other issue when it comes to space – or lack of it – is that if you have a compact tent and the weather’s rubbish, you’ll have little option but to spend your evening cooped-up in your tent. 

If you buy a tent with a porch area, like the Vango we have chosen above, you can at least open up the folding stool, stretch your legs, enjoy a beer and keep your sleeping compartment dry.

Motorcycle Tents - Top Tips

Super lightweight tents cost a huge amount more. For example, the lightest two man tent we could find weighs around 500g but costs a whopping £600. However you can get a tent weighing around 2.5kg for £80. A solo rider will need a two-man tent, in order to comfortably store your gear and sleep at the same time. A two-person tent will be tight for two bikers, so think double the capacity to have a comfortable trip. Stuff some clothes in your tent's storage bag to use as a half-decent pillow. Wet kit won't dry in the sleeping compartment, it'll just make you sticky and sweaty. You need to store it in the outside area, so the airflow can help remove the moisture. Tents that promise to be up and running in seconds sound great but in reality if you practice a few times, you can get any tent up in well under 10 minutes. Often the easy-up tents pack larger - due to longer tent poles - and are more expensive too. Your motorcycle makes a good tent peg. If it's windy, you can use your bike's sidestand to help secure your tent from blowing away. Cooking in your tent is asking for trouble. If you are doing to cook, make sure you buy a tent with an outer vestibule, so that you don't steam out your tent or risk tipping your cooker over inside your tent.

The compact camping table

One of the things we love about motorcycle camping is the challenge to pack enough kit but not take the kitchen sink. Travelling light is always good.

We couldn’t write a guide on the best biker tents without mentioning this cool camping table from SW Motech . It connects to their panniers to form a sturdy table on which to eat your dinner from, play cards on or just organise your stuff on.

It folds away and fits into the lid of the panniers too. Smart!

First time pitching a Vango Galaxy 300 is around 30-40 minutes, however,once erected it can be packed away as one and thereafter pitching is around 10 -15 minutes. Best tent ever for motorcycle touring and I really really can’t believe that Vango stopped making them ? Large spacious and you can stand up in the porch area but packs away small and is lightweight at around 5.5 kgs and also has 5000mm rated material and power flex “ALLOY” poles ,one caveat is the sides of the porch flap in and if it’s raining can leave puddles in the porch area,this is easily remedied though by buying some crocodile clips and guying it out. As For the Kyham Biker its the word Biker that draws you in, IMHO they are not good and I know a lot of people that have owned them ( I have owned the Freelander ) and just like me quickly got shot of them.Pack size and weight is hideous and they take just as long to pitch ( even longer ) than any other tent also you have to seal the seams with sealant ( provided ) before use. If only Vango could tweak the Galaxy 300 and rename it the Vango Biker they would be onto a winner and no you don’t need to have to store your bike in it.

In reply to Urbster I have been using Kyham tents for over twenty years at all the rallies including bmf, bulldog bash, farm yard, storming the castle, Moto club de faro rally, to name but a few and all over Europe. It’s a superb tent it’s waterproof quick to erect and take down the more you do it the easier it gets. It is a fairly long tent when packed but if you have panniers and mount it on your rack it’s less width than the panniers and it’s Ride magazine recommended ok you can’t park your bike in it as the article states but why would you want to, I don’t park my car in my house either. Ride safe mrLeigh👍

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Sleep With Your Bike In This Roomy Cycling Tent: Review

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The Bicycle Tour Camping Tent lets you store your bike inside, with plenty of room left over for quality slumber.

I rolled out of my south Minneapolis apartment on a Friday night in search of a little clandestine bike camping within city limits. My sleeping partner for the night would be my bike, inside the tent with me.

I knew it wouldn’t fall over and wake me up in the middle of the night, thanks to the Bicycle Tour Camping Tent from NSR Riding.

The Bicycle Tour Camping Tent is said to be the first of its kind with dedicated straps and room for a bike inside. While it looks like a standard single-wall tent, protrusions extend out of the tent body for the handlebars and front wheel.

From my experience reviewing the tent, and an interview with the North American Director of Products, Christian Mo, I got the lowdown on this wacky-looking shelter.

Review: NSR Bicycle Tour Camping Tent

Secluded near the river in St. Paul, I quickly set up the NSR Tent, thanks to its amazingly simple design. Two shock-corded aluminum poles cross over the top in separate sheaths, anchoring into four corner grommets.

It is a free-standing tent but includes nine light and sturdy anodized stakes for windy situations. My drop-bar Breadwinner B-Road bike rolled right inside—with the wheels on, thank you very much. I secured it with buckles around the fork.

The tent material bumps out for the front wheel, drop bars, and pedal, and an internal shock cord wraps around the top tube and stakes on the outside. The bike has all the support it needs to stand up without tipping.

Sleep Test: Cycling Tent

A zippered mesh window on either side makes air-flow and cross-ventilation a breeze (see what I did there?).

There is a pocket on one side but it is at ground level, so I had to make sure I didn’t roll over in my sleep and break my glasses.

I had no opportunity to test the weatherproof-qualities of the NSR Riding Tent on the first night. The temps hovered in the low 60s and it was beautifully calm.

In the morning, I broke camp and stealthily rejoined the bike path brethren who were none the wiser.

Who It’s For: NSR Cycling Tent

Bike-packers and tourers would be the obvious contenders to purchase this tent. It could be useful for cyclocross or mountain bike racers, offering space to change before and after their events, and it would work as semi-secure storage spot for the bike. It’s essentially a portable bike garage.

For bike-packers, the NSR Bicycle Tour Camping Tent does come in its own saddle bag, which on the surface is a great idea and value.

However, the nylon webbing and buckles on my bag did not offer enough friction while under compression. Thus, the bag sagged when mounted.

This wasn’t a deal-breaker, though. I solved the issue with a Surly Bike Junk Strap .

NSR claims a weight of around 3.7 lbs. My tent weighed in at 4.1 lbs. on its own, and 4.9 in the included saddle bag.

My version was the road bike tent, but NSR also offers mountain bike versions.

The Fine Print

Taped seams and a water-resistant coating do lend a feeling of quality. This is a well-made piece of camping gear.

Based in Seoul, South Korea, NSR Riding started in 2011. The brand holds North American offices in New Jersey and Florida.

NSR Riding offers the Bicycle Tour Camping Tent for $270 (at 25 percent off as of press time). Your purchase includes free shipping.

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The Ultimate Bike Trip Packing List

This is everything you’ll need on the road for a long-distance cycling trip.

Whether venturing abroad or trying a new route at home, traveling on two wheels is a fun way to explore at your own pace.

A thorough packing list will ensure you're prepared for a multi-day bike trip. You’ll need to consider the local climate, duration of the trip, and potential bike contingencies to be ready for on your adventure. At the same time, you should travel light and narrow your list to just the essential apparel, gear, and accessories so you’re not pulling unnecessary weight.

Read on for more on what to pack for your next bike trip.

Packing Checklist

Apparel and shoes.

• Best Cycling Shorts for Men: Giordana Men’s FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts
• Best Cycling Shorts for Women: Pearl iZUMI Women’s Expedition Shorts
• Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt LS

Best Gloves: Giro La DND Mountain Cycling Gloves

• Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Socks

Best Cycling Shoes: Fi'zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoe

Best jacket: rapha trail lightweight jacket, essential gear, best helmet: bontrager velocis mips road bike helmet, best pedals: shimano eh500 spd dual sided bike pedal, best bike mirror: cateye bm-45 bar end mirror, best hydration: evoc hip pack pro 3l.

• Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers
• Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon SMC Core Bike Saddle
• Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women’s Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle
• Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool

Best Pump: Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump

Best phone mount: peak design universal bar mount, best tent: mountain hardwear nimbus ul 2 tent.

• Best Sleeping Bag: Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag
• Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Stove

Accessories

Best sunglasses: julbo fury sunglasses.

• Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
• Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit
• Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-thin Credit Card-sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

When and where you’ll be cycling are key factors that should guide your packing list for a bike trip . “There isn’t much difference between a short trip and a long trip,” says adventure YouTuber Ryan Van Duzer. “The weather is what makes the difference on what clothing to pack, whether it be base layers for warmth or waterproof protection,” adds Van Duzer.

Besides the riding conditions, it’s also important to consider comfort, performance, and durability in your cycling apparel. “Look for clothing and apparel with merino wool to prevent odor, especially on longer trips and if you’ll be repeating outfits,” advises Van Duzer. Other items, like padded bike shorts and cycling shoes, should balance lasting comfort with performance to enhance your pedaling power, efficiency, and stamina. Choosing high-quality, durable apparel will help ensure you get plenty of miles out of your purchases.

Best Men’s Cycling Shorts: Giordana Men's FR-C Pro Cycling Shorts

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Backcountry.com

If you’re planning on longer rides and multiple days in the saddle, padded bike shorts are essential to stay comfortable. The Giordana FR-C Pros excel when it comes to comfort and performance. The shorts’ Cirro OmniForm chamois is designed with multiple layers that form to the shape of the rider while providing ventilation and relief channels in sensitive areas. The chamois also incorporates aloe vera into the fabric to soothe skin and prevent odor. While the FR-C Pro’s tight fit takes some getting used to, the elastic leg bands and waist panel manage to achieve security without being overly compressive. After regularly wearing these for months, we love that the high-quality, anti-abrasion fabric offers soft supportive compression that make you want to ride all day.

Price at time of publish: $190

Best Women’s Cycling Shorts: Pearl iZUMi Women’s Expedition Shorts

Buy at Rei.com

Buy at Pearlizumi.com

The Pearl iZUMI women’s expedition shorts impressed us for their high-quality construction and long-lasting comfort. The brand’s Elite Transfer fabric provides a flexible, yet supportive fit and wicks away moisture. We love the padding’s barely-there feeling and ability to stay in place during long rides. The wide waistband design prevents chafing and an overly restrictive fit so you can mix up riding positions and pedal comfortably for hours. Pearl iZUMI incorporated three pockets in the expedition shorts — two cargo pockets and a center-back pocket — allowing easier access to snacks or an extra layer. With a competitive retail price, these shorts are a great value, too. For an even more aerodynamic fit, consider the bibbed version of these shorts .

Price at time of publish: $70

Best Riding Jersey: Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt

The Showers Pass Apex Merino Tech T-shirt is designed with cyclists in mind. Made with an 87 percent merino wool and 13 percent nylon blend, the shirt is breathable and odor-resistant. “I like wearing natural fibers like merino wools — they don’t stink compared to polyester materials,” notes Van Duzer, who has ridden across the continental United States and other countries around the world. The Apex Merino Tech shirt features a relaxed fit and lengthier back in both the men’s and women’s versions for optimal coverage, especially when hunched forward in an aggressive riding position. It also boasts UPF 40 sun protection and a reflective label to enhance visibility on the road.

Price at time of publish: $71

Related: The 13 Best Bike Shorts for Women of 2023

The Giro LA DND Mountain Cycling Gloves offer tactile handling and durable protection for the hands. While they’re popular with mountain bikers, these rugged gloves are well-suited for road cycling too, not to mention boasting the benefit of avoiding knuckle tan lines. The DND gloves use a three-panel construction and an AX Suede palm that enhances the grip and prevents bunching. They’re made with breathable, four-way stretch fabric and reinforced fingertips that are touchscreen compatible. To lessen the impact of vibrations and bumps, the gloves include thin gel padding.

Price at time of publish: $22

Best Socks: Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock

Buy at Giro.com

The Giro Seasonal Merino Wool Sock achieves an ideal balance between comfort and durability. Made with 70 percent merino wool, the socks are breathable, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant. The heel and toes are reinforced with nylon to extend the life of the socks. The Giro socks feature six-inch cuffs, shielding the lower legs from sun and anything the road throws at you. They’re available in four sizes (S-XL) and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Note that this is a mid-weight sock, which may be a bit excessive for road cycling in hotter climates.

Price at time of publish: $12

Buy at Mikesbikes.com

The Fi’zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoes deliver top-notch road cycling performance. The Infinito shoe is incredibly stiff and places the cleat towards the center of the foot, providing efficient power transfer to the pedals. Despite their stiffness, the shoe avoids pressure points and hotspots by creating a snug wraparound fit for comfort and support. This fit comes courtesy of the BOA Li2 closure system, which consists of two dials that carry out two-way adjustments to the finest degree. While you’re pedaling away, the shoe’s Microtex upper facilitates airflow to regulate moisture and temperature. Though the Infinito fetches a premium price, it delivers exceptional performance and durable, lightweight construction that’s a worthwhile investment for avid road cyclists.

Price at time of publish: $370

Related: The Best Electric Bikes for Every Type of Rider

Buy at Rapha.cc

The Rapha Lightweight Trail Jacket was made for cycling. The fit delivers freedom of movement and the entire jacket can be stuffed into the chest pocket and strapped to the bike frame for convenient transport. The ripstop nylon fabric construction is lightweight, breathable, and windproof. Cyclists can easily adjust the drawstring hood, which nearly fits over a helmet , while riding. Meanwhile, elastic cuffs provide a no-fuss method for keeping sleeves in place. The Trail Jacket is available in both men’s and women’s versions and in six different sizes.

Price at time of publish: $90

Whether you’ll be hauling your own gear on a bikepacking trip or cycling on a multi-day tour , there are some essential items you’ll need to stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for the unexpected on the road. Besides upgrading your bike pedals and seat, you’ll want to think about integrating storage and safety features on your ride, too. It’s also important to be prepared for flat tires and roadside fixes.

Buy at Trekbikesflorida.com

The Bontrager Velocis MIPS Road Bike Helmet is designed to help cyclists reach top speeds while staying cool. The polycarbonate helmet opted for fewer, but larger vents (10 total) to balance ventilation and aerodynamics. The vents and internal channels keep air flowing through the helmet, while the pads wick away moisture for long-lasting comfort. The Velocis MIPS helmet comes in three sizes (small, medium, and large), and the BOA closure system makes it easy to adjust and dial in the right fit with a single hand. The helmet features a multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS) developed by doctors and scientists to reduce rotational motion to the head and brain during impact.

Price at time of publish: $225

Whether you choose to ride in cycling cleats or other active footwear, the Shimano EH500 PSD bike pedals have you covered. One side of the hybrid pedal is compatible with SPD clips, while the other is equipped with eight traction pins for reliable grip, rain or shine. SPD, which stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, is the brand’s clipless pedal that delivers a secure foot-to-pedal connection and easy multi-release system. While some pedals only release by kicking your heel out horizontally, the EH500 SPD pedal will unclip if you move your heel in multiple directions — a safety perk for newer cyclists .

If you’re on a multi-day cycling tour, having the option to swap out your cycling shoes for regular footwear is incredibly convenient when taking shorter sightseeing rides or running errands. And then when it’s time to complete another leg of your journey, you can switch back to riding clipped-in.

Price at time of publish: $85

Buy at Target.com

The CatEye BM-45 Bar End Mirror is small but effective at keeping an eye on traffic behind you to stay vigilant on the road. It’s made from aluminum and glass, adding durability and providing a virtually distortion-free view, respectively. The BM-45 mirror’s compact design means it hardly protrudes from the handlebars and won’t compromise a bike’s sleek aesthetics. Weighing just over an ounce, this ultralight mirror won’t slow you down.

Price at time of publish: $18

Related: The Best Sport Sunglasses to Take You to the Top of Your Game

Buy at Competitivecyclist.com

The Evoc Hip Pack Pro 3L is adeptly designed for keeping cyclists hydrated, fitting comfortably around the waists. The hip pack features two water bottle holders and space for a 1.5-liter hydration bladder, giving riders multiple choices for their hydration method. It’s secured via two broad elastic straps that attach via velcro and a quick-release buckle. The Airo Flex material used in the straps plus the wide design prevents chafing and tightness on the hips and stomach. Riders can tighten or loosen the straps with a single pull — allowing easy adjustments to prepare for inclines and descents.  Ventilated padding along the back helps maintain airflow and comfort during longer rides. Aside from the water storage, the pack is equipped with a zippered hip pocket and an organizer pocket for tools, but the capacity is limited.

Price at time of publish: $100

Best Pannier Bag: Ortlieb Back-Roller Classic Pannier

The Ortlieb Back-roller Classic Panniers are well-suited for weekend trips and cross-country rides alike. The panniers offer 40 liters of storage space and are compatible with rack diameters of 8, 10, 12, or 16 millimeters. Between the waterproof polyester exterior and the roll-top closure system, your belongings and gear will stay protected from the elements. Where the back-roller panniers truly excel is their mounting hardware — Ortlieb’s QL2.1 system. Securing the panniers to your bike is as straightforward as grabbing the handles to open the lower latches and fastening the adjustable hooks to the rack, then letting go of the handle to lock it in place. To remove, simply lift the pannier by the handle, and the latches will automatically release.

Price at time of publish: $200

Related: The 12 Best Bike Lights of 2023

Best Men’s-specific Bike Seat: Ergon Men's SMC Core Bike Saddle

The Ergon SMC Core Saddle features a multi-layered system of padding to deliver an ideal balance of cushion, support, and responsiveness. The saddle uses Ergon’s Core 3D and TwinShell technology to form a multi-layered design, which encompasses a BASF Infinergy elastomer foam layer sandwiched between two nylon composite shells. This allows the SMC Core to move side to side to support pelvic movement while pedaling, reducing back strain and pressure on the sit bones. We were impressed by the seat’s stability on tough terrain and tactical trails. It’s also equipped with a pressure relief channel, which expands as it moves toward the back of the seat, helping to prevent numbness in sensitive areas on longer rides.

Price at time of publish: $150

Best Women’s-specific Bike Seat: Selle Italia Women's Diva Gel Superflow MTB Road Bike Saddle

The Selle Italia Diva Gel Superflow Saddle delivers lasting support and pressure relief in a race-ready design. The seat top is fitted with a lightweight gel layer that cushions the sit bones and dampens vibrations and bumps. Meanwhile, the nylon base of the seat provides a firm base for pedaling power and stability. The Superflow Saddle also features a substantial anatomical cutout in the center of the saddle to direct weight to the sit bones and alleviate pressure in sensitive soft tissue areas. The cutout, combined with the titanium rails and nylon base, keeps the weight to just around .6 pounds (depending on size).

Price at time of publish: $83

Related: The 10 Most Comfortable Bike Seats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Multitool: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool

The Crankbrothers M19 Multi-tool has been on the market for over a decade and remains popular with cyclists for its functionality and ergonomic, durable design. As its name suggests, it contains 19 different tools, including a mix of hex keys, screwdrivers, spoke wrenches, and a chain tool. It’s equipped with side grips to maintain a firm hold while tackling roadside fixes. It comes with a sleek aluminum carry case that keeps it from snagging on other items but adds a bit of weight that some may deem unnecessary.

Price at time of publish: $31

Buy at Moosejaw.com

The compact Lezyne Micro Floor Drive Hand Pump helps save on space and weight without sacrificing performance. It’s rated for high pressure tire inflation, with 160 PSI maximum pressure. “Most mini pumps are undersized, whereas this has the functionality of a normal pump in a smaller package,” notes Van Duzer. The Lezyne pump is made with replaceable parts that are designed to last, including a stainless steel foot peg and CNC-machined aluminum barrel, piston, base, and T-handle. While the portable pump can be easily tucked in a pannier, riders also have the option of securing it to their bike with the included Composite Matrix frame mount. The Lezyne pump comes in two versions: one with a built-in pressure gauge and one without that cuts down the overall cost and weight.

Price at time of publish: $55

Related: The 11 Best Bikes for Every Type of Rider in 2023

The Peak Design Universal Bar Mount can accommodate a variety of mounting setups, including bikes, e-bikes, and scooters. It’s attached via a grippy silicone band to any handlebar between .75 to 2.2 inches. The Bar Mount uses a magnetic SlimLink attachment to secure the phone in place and a push-button release to remove it. This setup allows riders to grab and put their phone back without taking their eyes off the road ahead, plus the flexibility to have their phone in portrait or landscape alignment.

Price at time of publish: $50

The Mountain Hardwear Nimbus UL 2 Tent boasts an incredibly lightweight design that lends itself to bikepacking trips. It weighs just over 2 pounds when packed in its stuff sack, or you can divide the tent components and weight between two riders if bikepacking as a duo. The tent floor and sides are made from ripstop nylon for durability, while the mesh canopy enhances ventilation and cuts down on unnecessary weight. Mountain Hardwear did without dyeing the rain fly, helping save water and chemicals to reduce the overall environmental impact of the Nimbus UL 2. Campers can stake out the rain fly to create a 7.7-square-foot vestibule for safely storing cycling gear and provisions.

Price at time of publish: $420

Best Sleeping Bag: Rab 20F Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag

When packing for a bikepacking trip, weight is a leading factor in selecting gear. Weighing less than 1.5 pounds, the Rab Mythic Ultra 360 Down Sleeping Bag is a featherweight design that doesn’t skimp on performance and durability. The mummy-shape sleeping bag is insulated with a 900+ down fill to keep campers comfortable at below-freezing temperatures, and it's treated with a water-repellent coating to shed moisture. During our testing, it was cozy even during a cold, windy night with wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour. The Mythic Ultra 360’s 7D ripstop nylon construction is equipped with Thermo Ionic Lining Technology (TILT) that efficiently traps body heat to reduce the total down used, thus saving weight and packing volume.

Price at time of publish: $720

Related: The 12 Best Sleeping Bags of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Cooking System: Jetboil Stash Ultralight Camping and Backpacking Stove

This is a lightweight, all-in-one cooking system that stows easily in a pannier or handlebar bag. The Jetboil Stash Stove is the brand’s most lightweight and compact, weighing just over 7 ounces. All of the cooking systems components — isobutane fuel canister, titanium regulator, fuel-can stabilizer, and lighter — pack inside the .8-liter FluxRing cook pot. Meanwhile, the rubber-coated handle folds over the lid for packability and locks in place while cooking. With an average boil time of 2 minutes, 30 seconds, the Stash Stove makes morning coffee and meals a breeze. The wide-mouth cook pot design also makes it easy to eat from, meaning you can skip plates and bowls for less weight or other on-the-road essentials. The one downside is that it doesn’t have a push-button ignition, so you’ll need to pack matches or a lighter.

Price at time of publish: $111

Even the most minimalist packers will make room for accessories on their bike trip. Items like sunscreen and a first aid kit are essential for a smooth cycling adventure . Other accessories, like chargers and sunglasses, will come in handy for phone battery backup and keeping your focus on the road ahead.

The Julbo Fury Sunglasses are designed with a wide cylindrical lens that protects the eyes from sunlight as well as bugs and debris on the road. The lightweight, cycling-specific glasses are made with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses and a robust, yet flexible frame. They nearly cover your entire field of vision and stay securely in place while cycling at high speeds. Though the Fury sunglasses maintain a snug fit, they are equipped with shock-absorbing inserts at the temples and bridge of the nose for enduring comfort. Cyclists will appreciate that the vented structure allows plenty of airflow to prevent the lenses from fogging up. The Fury sunglasses are available with two different lenses. The Spectron 3CF lens is best suited for riding in bright light, while the Reactive photochromic lens adjusts based on the light conditions.

Price at time of publish: $140

Best Sunscreen: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick

Buy at Walmart.com

The Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Its main ingredients — zinc oxide and titanium Dioxide — shield skin from 97 percent of the sun’s rays without using any chemicals that can harm the environment. Blue Lizard’s formula also contains skin-nourishing ingredients, including aloe vera, shea butter, sunflower-seed oil, and vitamin E. The fragrance-free mineral sunscreen is water resistant for 80 minutes, and the stick design makes it easy to quickly reapply on pit stops or even without dismounting the bike.

Price at time of publish: $10

Related: The 9 Best Bike Phone Mounts of 2023

Best First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7

The Adventure Medical Kit Ultralight/Watertight First Aid Kit packs a wide assortment of bandages, medications, and supplies to treat the more common issues cyclists experience on long-distance rides. It has Moleskin and topical adhesive for treating and preventing blisters as well as wraps and tape for support or immobilization. There’s also a modest supply of over-the-counter medication to treat inflammation, pain, and insect bites, though we wish it also included medication for gastrointestinal problems. The first aid kit exterior is made with durable ripstop silnylon, while the interior features two watertight pouches to keep items clean and dry. Weighing just 8 ounces, this first aid kit will have minimal impact on your packed bike weight.

Price at time of publish: $32

Best Portable Charger: ChargeCard Ultra-Thin Credit Card Sized Portable Charger & Battery Bank

Buy at Theaquavault.com

Whether to navigate, record your ride, or dispatch a motivational playlist, our phones are essential travel companions. The ChargeCard ensures you have an emergency boost of power for your phone if the battery gets precariously low. The stainless steel battery resembles a sleek credit card and weighs just over 2 ounces. It’s compatible with Micro USB, Lighting, and USB Type-c connectors. It also features LED indicator lights to let you know how much charge is left. Although it saves precious space, its charging capacity is limited compared to other portable chargers.

Price at time of publish: $60

What to Know Before You Pack for a Bike Trip

Take only the essentials.

Packing light while bringing everything you need takes planning and practice. “I only pack two [cycling] shirts and one pair of bike shorts,” says Van Duzer. Since they’re made with quick-drying materials, washing shirts and bike shorts in your shower or bathroom sink is a quick and easy way to get back-to-back wears out of the same outfit, he adds. By keeping your cycling apparel to a minimum, you’ll ensure you have plenty of room for essential gear, accessories, and clothing and footwear for when you’re not riding on two wheels.

Choosing to borrow or rent items upon arrival can help cut down on your packing list. Van Duzer brings all his own gear (including his bike) and clothing, only buying food once he arrives at his next cycling destination. “Most airlines will take your bike as checked luggage and won’t charge extra as long as it fits their parameters,” says Van Duzer.

Prepare for all weather

Even in the most temperate environments, there’re bound to be variations in temperature and precipitation, especially if you're heading out first thing to ride into the afternoon. Unless traveling in the warmest climates, packing a jacket to protect against rain and wind is recommended. Choosing waterproof gear and storage is another good idea for covering your bases if the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Choose versatility

Prioritizing versatility in your cycling gear, apparel, and accessories can prepare you for a variety of conditions and help keep your packing list on the lighter side. Selecting lightweight, packable layers that can be easily taken on and off and worn in variable temperatures is key, as they’ll be practical for multiple seasons and different cycling destinations. It may take some time to mix and match to find what combinations work best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take my bike with me on a trip or rent?

If traveling by car, transporting your own two wheels on a bike rack is an easy solution. If you’re riding for several days or more, the cost of flying with your bike may be cheaper than renting — not to mention the benefits of being certain that you’ll have a bike that fits and handles well.

Where do I keep all of my things on a bike trip?

Bikes have versatile storage options, including rear and front racks, baskets, and bags that attach to the frame, handlebars, or installed racks.

Can I use my bike trip equipment on rides at home?

Yes — using your bike trip equipment and gear at home can help prepare you for your trip as well as enhance your day-to-day cycling experience.

What materials should I look for when preparing for a bike trip?

For apparel, look for natural fibers like merino wool for optimal breathability and odor resistance. For bike gear, look for durable and waterproof materials like ripstop nylon.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard is a contributing writer at T+L, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. He used his experience with outdoor adventure and cycling, as well as thorough research and tips from long-distance cycling veteran Ryan Van Duzer in compiling this list of what to pack for a bike trip. 

Related: The Ultimate Backpacking Packing List

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