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Backpacking & Lightweight Tents

1-2 Person Tent3-4 Person Tent

Weight: Up To 1kg Weight: 1-5kgWeight: 5-10kg

At Taunton Leisure, we understand the importance of balancing weight and performance in backpacking tents. A great backpacking or hiking tent supports your journey from start to finish. That might mean riding out a storm in Snowdonia, sleeping under stars on Dartmoor or wild camping in the Scottish glens.


Lightweight Tents for Hiking & Adventures

Our range of lightweight tents is designed with the realities and unpredictability of the UK’s terrain in mind. These shelters are engineered for lightness, weather protection, smart ventilation and practicality.

We work closely with trusted names like Hilleberg, known for world-class expedition shelters, and Big Agnes, whose expertise in ultralight tent design comes from their deep understanding of long-distance backpacking. Also in our selection are dependable models from Vango, a brand with deep roots in UK outdoor adventures.

Choosing the Right Tent Size

1–2 Person Backpacking Tents

For solo wanderers or duos who pack light, a small backpacking tent is often the most efficient and comfortable. These compact tents are built for mobility, allowing you to pitch up without hassle. If you value simplicity and minimal weight on your solo adventures or you're tackling a route with tight pitch options, these 1 to 2 person options are the perfect choice.

3–4 Person Lightweight Tents

When you’re travelling in pairs, with family or simply want more room to breathe, 3-4 lightweight tents are a solid choice.These tents often have great features like porches for gear storage and enough internal headroom to sit up comfortably, crucial on those rainy evenings.

Stay in the Loop with Our Latest Backpacking Tent Offers

Make sure you're first to hear about our latest tent releases, gear tips and in-store exclusives by signing up for our news emails. We regularly share expert insights, early access to sales, and seasonal guides via our newsletter.

Not sure which lightweight tent to buy? Our team of outdoor specialists can offer honest, practical advice – both online and in-store. Browse our range today and find the tent that’s perfect for your next adventure.

FAQs About Backpacking Tents

What is a backpacking tent?

A backpacking tent is specifically designed for portability and performance on foot. Unlike traditional camping tents, these models prioritise low weight and compact pack size, making them ideal for wild camping, hikes or multi-day trips on foot. Though smaller, they still offer full weather protection, sturdy construction and feature all the key elements of a standard tent.

How do I choose the right size backpacking tent?

Think carefully about how you camp. If you're mostly solo or like to keep things light and agile, a one-person lightweight tent might be your best fit. If you hike with a friend or prefer extra space, stepping up to a two- or three-person model makes sense. Bear in mind that a ‘two-person’ tent is often quite snug – ideal if you’re both carrying ultralight loads, less so if you value more personal space.

How do I decide what weight my backpacking tent should be?

Weight matters more the further you walk. A true ultralight tent typically weighs under 1.5kg and is built for fast and light travel. These are best for experienced users who can compromise on space and aren’t afraid of delicate handling. Midweight hiking tents (around 2–3kg) tend to offer a better balance of space and functionality. Consider how far you’ll be carrying your tent and what level of comfort you want when deciding.

Are ultralight tents durable enough for UK conditions?

Yes, depending on the tent you choose. Modern ultralight tents use high-quality technical fabrics like Dyneema or silicone-coated nylon, which can be surprisingly strong for their weight. However, they do require more care in setup and use, especially in exposed environments. Some offer minimal pole structures or rely on trekking poles for support. If you're heading into remote or windy areas, ensure your chosen shelter has good pegging points, strong guylines and proven wind resistance.

What waterproof rating should I look for in a hiking tent?

For UK use, a hydrostatic head rating of at least 3,000mm is advisable for the flysheet. That ensures good rain protection during heavy or prolonged downpours. Groundsheet ratings can be even higher – often 5,000mm or more – to resist damp or waterlogged pitches.

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