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Best 2 Person Tents
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Weight
Are you going to bring yours backpacking? This is a very important question that you need to answer before you invest in something. The key word there is before. It may not seem like much, but an extra couple of pounds can make all the difference in the world in a backpack. So, you may prioritize a lighter model over a heavier one. Now, it is also vital to point out that a reduction of weight does not necessarily insinuate that the quality will suffer. In fact, an ultralight portable shelter can actually sport more premium materials if it cuts down on the extra features and roominess.
Also, you may want to keep an eye out for choices that come with a dual-stage stuff sack. These sacks are unique as they can allow you to disperse the load with a friend. As such, you could each carry three pounds separated, for example.
Breathability
When it comes down to it, there are two primary factors that determine the breathability. Firstly, it is the actual ventilation to prevent condensation from building up and the second is how much breathing room is provided. The former is easy to assess as there needs to be enough mesh throughout. But, when it gets cold, you may not want this air flowing in. So, look for mesh panels that can be zipped up.
As far as the breathing room is concerned, this is where things can get controversial. “Controversial” in the sense that manufacturers can sometimes fib and mislead you in regards to the sizes. The reality is not all models will comfortably sleep two people; at least, not comfortably. Instead, you need to focus on the specifications. This would include the peak height, floor area, floor dimensions and interior volume. These values will go a long way in determining if there truly is enough space for you.
Durability
No matter what type of tent you are in the market for, they will get you as far as their build quality will. To elaborate, if a particular model is comprised of cheap and thin materials that can’t hold up to some decently rough environments, it may not even be worth a look. Often times, you do get what you pay for and it is best to ignore the price tag and focus more on the build quality. Most are typically constructed of nylon and polyester materials as both offer performance advantages and are tough. If you are looking for the most durable option, though, pay attention to the denier of a fabric as the higher it is the more rugged the fabric will be.
However, you may also need to consider how the one you choose will hold up in the rain and through storms. The build quality will certainly help it stay intact during storms but that is only half the battle. The other is assessing its ability to keep out water. To do so, ensure the seams are fully taped to prevent water from seeping through. Secondly, assess what type of coating has been used.
Capacity
Of all the design features you need to factor into the equation, this is the one that is easiest to forget about. However, it is also one that could silently be one of the most critical. If you are merely camping in a campground and are looking for a one to accommodate more people, they may not care if there are storage compartments inside. Yet, if you plan to use yours frequently and on backpacking trips, it can be nice to have dedicated compartments to store your gear. If this matters to you, look for models with interior pockets, such as lampshade pockets for lighting, media pockets for electronic devices, and so on.
But, this is also where vestibules come into play. Not all options will have one but some will and others will have multiples. They are convenient as they are essentially oversized floor areas that give you a location to store your boots or other dirty gear. It essentially can keep certain items separate from the main interior.
Top 10 Picks
1. Hilleberg Anjan GT
To call the Hilleberg Anjan GT a beast is a vast understatement. When it comes to finding the most durable and weather-resistant product on the market, you really are not going to find a model that tops this.
Read moreBuild Quality
In terms of durability and weather protection, the Anjan GT is perfect, bar none. It sports metal rings on the four corners to reduce wear, reinforced vestibule zippers, a bathtub floor, and all the elements to prevent even the smallest amount of water from seeping through.
Simplicity
Due to the tunnel design, only four pegs are needed for pitching. On top of this is the pole tensioner pole system and the result is a product that is very easy to pitch. Also, the inner and outer tents can be used separately if you buy separate pole holders.
Storage Compartments
From the image, you can tell how long it is. One of the reasons why is the 27 square foot vestibule which is probably the largest vestibule you will ever see in this type.
Breathability
The aforementioned tunnel construction also maximizes the amount of livable space you have inside. Past this, you can replace the inner part with a Mesh Inner if you buy it separately.
Weight and Portability
Clearly, Hilleberg’s focus was not on making the lightest portable shelter in the world. However, at four pounds and 10 ounces, their Anjan GT is still lighter than some models.
Overall
What makes it easy to place the Anjan GT number one on this list is its unique nature. That, and its absolutely insane durability and water protection which is hard to fathom until you actually use it.
2. Black Diamond Mesa
Everything you look for in a high-quality tent is featured in the Mesa. While it seems hard to believe that this could possibly be true, keep on reading and you will be witness to the greatness of the Mesa.
Read moreBuild Quality
Both the floor and the fly of the Mesa have had their seams taped and sport 1500-millimeter and 2000-millimeter fabric, respectively. Also, this is a double-wall portable shelter.
Simplicity
Due to the variable-diameter DAC Featherlite poles and the fast-pitch hub, the setup process for the Mesa is not a difficult one. In fact, it should take you 10 minutes or less.
Storage Compartments
While the interior storage pockets provide enough space for your accessories and small gear, the two vestibules are really worth pointing out. They provide you with the storage space you will need for your larger gear and apparel.
Breathability
Inside of it, there is enough room to comfortably sleep one to two people. In terms of the ventilation, the top canopy is made of mesh to allow adequate airflow inside.
Weight and Portability
As it sits now, the Mesa weighs around five pounds. But, backpackers can invest in the optional footprint to reduce this weight by only using the footprint, poles, and fly.
Overall
When it comes down to it, what more could you truly ask for? The Mesa is a durable product that offers protection from rain, has enough room for two, is easy to set up, and sports two vestibules and interior pockets.
3. Mountain Hardwear Optic 2.5
It is utterly amazing how cheap the Optic 2.5 is as it is truly one of the best in the business; regardless of its price. And, because of the extra space delivered, it will comfortably fit two grown adults with room to spare.
Read moreBuild Quality
Other products of this type are comprised primarily of mesh but not the Optic 2.5. To account for windy and dusty climates, this product has been outfitted with doors that sport a mesh panel and a full nylon panel.
Simplicity
There are two crisscrossing poles that make up the primary structure of the Optic 2.5 and also a third pole used for enhanced headroom. Overall, this makes assembling it very simple.
Storage Compartments
Instead of just one vestibule, the Optic 2.5 actually sports two of them and they are 12-foot and six-foot in square footage. Additionally, there are big mesh pockets that can hold various accessories.
Breathability
Were you wondering what the 2.5 of the Optic represented? Well, it basically means it fits 2.5 people. As there is no such thing as half-a-person, this means there is plenty of extra room for you and another guest.
Weight and Portability
Let’s be honest; this is not a lightweight product. At around six pounds in total weight, it is actually one of the heavier models out there.
Overall
If size is your biggest priority and you do not want a three-person tent, consider the Optic 2.5. Yes, the weight is a bit high but that is a decent tradeoff for enhanced space and durability.
4. Nemo Dagger
The Nemo Dagger comes in either a 2 or 3 person design and you can choose the one that suits you best. For the purpose of this guide, though, let’s focus on the two-person model as it meshes durability and lightness extremely well.
Read moreBuild Quality
Ultralight fabrics have been utilized throughout but the frame is designed with strong aluminum. Of course, Nemo has strategically placed thicker fabric in exposed areas that are prone to water.
Simplicity
Here is the process of the Dagger. Firstly, you need to anchor the locking pole tips to the grommets. Next, clip it to the frame. Yeah, that is the entirety of the assembly process.
Storage Compartments
Outside of the two doors that sports vestibules for a plausible location for your gear, there is a built-in privacy panel and also overhead light pockets that can cast an even glow of light.
Breathability
The mesh panels allow for admirable ventilation but the true sensation here is the innovative construction method of the Dagger. Without adding bulk, Nemo is able to maximize the amount of space.
Weight and Portability
Even without the lightweight alternative, which involves the footprint, the Dagger weighs less than four pounds making it more than suitable for backpacking.
Overall
Whether you decide to go with the three-person or the version of the Dagger that sleeps two is irrelevant as they both are fantastic. There is a reason so many buyers and users have raved about the quality.
5. Big Agnes Cooper Spur
Big Agnes is one of the most consistent tent manufacturers in the world but their greatest achievement may just be their Cooper Spur UL. Most notable is its durable construction as it sports fabrics that are 20 to 25 percent stronger than others.
Read moreBuild Quality
The canopy is made out of a proprietary-patterned double rip-stop nylon and polyester mesh. As for the fly and the floor, they are designed of proprietary random-patterned rip-stop nylon. Oh yeah, and the entire tent is seam-taped with polyurethane.
Simplicity
Several buyers have raved about the simplicity of the set up claiming it to be quick and easy.
Storage Compartments
There are two vestibules included and both have storm flaps added to their doors. Also, there is an oversized mesh media pocket and a large ceiling pocket for even more storage.
Breathability
Thanks to the architecture of the pole system, the walls are steeper and you are provided with more room. Also, the nylon utilized on the canopy is highly breathable and next to polyester mesh.
Weight and Portability
At just over three pounds, there is little to complain about in regard to the weight of the Cooper Spur UL.
Overall
To be honest, some of you probably stopped reading after the build quality and were sold. That alone sparks interest as the fabrics are extra durable and the seams are fully taped. But, it also helps that the interior sports storage compartments and plenty of space.
6. Marmot Tungsten
Of all the noteworthy features of the Tungsten, and there are a lot of them, the couple that stick out are its zone construction and ease of set up. The former enhances the amount of breathing room you have and the latter is always a convenience.
Read moreBuild Quality
When durability is a must, the Tungsten is going to come through for you. This is thanks, in large part, to its sturdy velocity HD poles and polyester fabric instead of nylon.
Simplicity
It seems to be a general consensus amongst buyers and reviewers that the Tungsten 2P is very simple to set up and to disassemble when the time comes.
Storage Compartments
If you need lighting, the lampshade pocket will come in handy. Also, there are interior pockets that can be used for small gear and multiple vestibules for even more storage.
Breathability
First off, the no-see-um mesh does a good job of keeping critters out while also delivering solid ventilation. But, what truly deserves recognition is the implemented zone design which enhances the interior capacity.
Weight and Portability
To be honest, you can find lighter versions on the market. The main reason for the extra weight increase is because of the polyester fabric.
Overall
Even though the Tungsten does sacrifice some added extra pounds, it does so to enhance its durability and structural integrity. All in all, it is hard to blame Marmot for doing such.
7. MSR Hubba Hubba NX
While the lack of enough internal pockets is apparent, the Hubba Hubba NX is still a wonderful product. It sports a freestanding design with two well-sized vestibules, topped off with durable and lightweight fabrics.
Read moreBuild Quality
The main body of the Hubba Hubba NX is made of rip-stop nylon and mesh, while the rainfly and the floor are made of coated nylon. Plus, at its core, aluminum poles hold it together.
Simplicity
When it comes time to assemble it, you will appreciate the hub-and-pole system and the color-coded clips. On top of this, it is a freestanding design which should only make the process easier.
Storage Compartments
Truth be told, MSR could have integrated more interior pockets to better allow gear to be organized. But, the two large vestibules do offer some gear storage for larger items.
Breathability
For both ventilation and privacy, there is a good blend of mesh and solid panels throughout this tent. In terms of breathing room, the pole geometry maximizes the amount of space you have.
Weight and Portability
MSR includes an ultra-compact compression stuff sack with their product. It's weight of 3.8-pound, with its complete setup, will easily fit inside for storage purposes.
Overall
Outside of some very minor issues, the Hubba Hubba NX is more than worth your hard-earned money. Plus, it is a 2 person tent that can actually comfortable sleep that, which is nice.
8. Big Agnes Fly Creek
One of the best aspects of this product and the remaining two for that matter is its lightweight nature. Backpackers will certainly appreciate the lighter materials but do not worry, the Fly Creek is still engineered to last you a lifetime.
Read moreBuild Quality
All the seams have been taped with a polyurethane tape and both the floor and the fly have been coated with a polyurethane coating. However, there was one buyer who questioned the durability of the zipper.
Simplicity
It is ready to pitch out of the bag with its pre-cut guy lines, plastic clips and hub pole design.
Storage Compartments
Included inside of the Fly Creek UL is a vestibule. Not only is it obtainable via the dry-entry door, it is also a nice location to store a lot of your gear.
Breathability
As most designers do, Big Agnes went out of their way to design their product to be as spacious as possible. Adding on to that is the breathable nylon and polyester mesh makeup of it as a whole.
Weight and Portability
At well under three pounds (two pounds and five ounces to be exact), the options are nearly limitless to how and where you wish to utilize this high-quality product from Big Agnes.
Overall
Anytime you see a product from Big Agnes, you know the quality is up to par. They are just that consistent of a company and they have truly established themselves as a go-to in the world of tents.
9. Nemo Hornet
Both the Nemo Hornet and the Tiger Wall, the next produt on this list, are very similar in nature. However, it is important to note that this is a prime example of a 2 person tent that realistically will fit one person.
Read moreBuild Quality
Nemo designed their Hornet with a tub floor construction. Basically, this reduces the number of seams and it creates a floor that is both more durable and keeps out water as a result.
Simplicity
The single hubbed pole design of the Hornet does wonders as it simplifies the setup process. For an ultra quick and intuitive setup, this is also a freestanding portable shelter.
Storage Compartments
On the ceiling of the Hornet there are light pockets and for added security, there is a privacy panel. Of course, this is all outshined by the dual vestibules with each one sporting a door.
Breathability
On one hand, the triangulated guy outs manage to increase the interior space by up to 15 percent. However, on the other hand, one tester noted that the condensation build-up was extremely noticeable.
Weight and Portability
If need be, even though this is one of the lightest products on the market already, the dual-stage stuff sack that comes included can be used to split the load amongst you and your friend.
Overall
Without a doubt, the breathability of the Nemo Hornet is one of the few areas of concern. Besides possibly having condensation issues, the 15 percent increase in space may still not be enough to sleep more than one person. But, everything else is above-average.
10. Big Agnes Tiger Wall
The Tiger Wall may not be the most rugged or durable, yet far from flimsy, but it is one of the lightest. One of the reasons why it is so light is due to its minimalist pole structure which eases the setup, as well.
Read moreBuild Quality
DAC Featherlite materials come together and join forces with the single pole system of the Tiger Wall to deliver a solid core.
Simplicity
With only a single pole to mess around with, set up and take down are breezes. For enhanced stability, the Velcro tabs will also connect the fly to the pole structure.
Storage Compartments
There should be no shortage of areas to store your gear that is for sure. Designed into the Tiger Wall is an over-sized ceiling pocket, media pockets above the sleeping area and two vestibules.
Breathability
Venting is not the issue here as the double sliders on the vestibule zippers allow for proper venting. In terms of breathing room, though, this will be a little tight for two grown adults.
Weight and Portability
Big Agnes dubs this as ultralight and this is not an exaggerative claim. After all, at 2 pounds and six ounces, you would be hard-pressed to find many products lighter of the same quality.
Overall
Look, the Tiger Wall is not perfect. There are stronger and more durable products out there that much is for sure. Yet, there is something to be said about its lightweight nature and structural integrity.
Sources
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