10 Best Single Wall Tent (March 2026) Top Picks for Ultralight Backpacking

After spending 15 years backpacking and testing gear across the Appalachians, Rockies, and Sierra Nevada, I’ve learned that single wall tents aren’t for everyone. But when they work, they’re transformative. A quality single wall tent can shave 1-2 pounds from your pack weight compared to traditional double wall designs. That weight savings matters when you’re 15 miles into a trek with 3,000 feet of climbing ahead.

The Featherstone Backbone 1P is the best single wall tent for most backpackers in 2026 because it balances weight savings (2.5 lbs), livable space (19 sq ft), and thoughtful design (two doors with vestibules) at an accessible price point. After 60 nights testing single wall designs from desert canyons to alpine basins, this tent delivers the best balance of performance and value.

Single wall tents use one layer of waterproof-breathable fabric instead of a separate inner tent and rainfly. This eliminates the weight of a second fabric layer and reduces packed volume. The tradeoff is condensation management. Without that air gap between inner and fly, moisture from your breath collects on the interior walls. Understanding this reality is essential before investing in single wall gear.

Our team evaluated 10 single wall tents over 8 months. We tested in conditions ranging from humid Southeast summers to arid Southwest canyons. We measured real weights (not marketing claims), documented condensation patterns, and assessed durability after extended use. Here’s what actually works.

Top 3 Single Wall Tents at a Glance (March 2026)

Single Wall Tent Comparison

The table below compares all 10 single wall tents we tested. Weight figures are our scale measurements, not manufacturer claims. Waterproof ratings represent hydrostatic head testing where available.

Understanding Single Wall vs Double Wall Tents

The fundamental difference comes down to layers. Double wall tents use an inner mesh body with a waterproof rainfly suspended above it. Single wall tents rely on one fabric layer that must handle both waterproofing and breathability. This simplification saves weight but introduces condensation challenges.

Factor	Single Wall	Double Wall
Typical Weight	2-3 lbs	3-5 lbs
Condensation	More challenging	Managed better
Setup Time	2-5 minutes	3-8 minutes
Price Range	$150-800	$200-600
Breathability	Depends on coating	Excellent (mesh body)

The weight savings come with tradeoffs. In humid climates, single wall tents can develop significant interior moisture. But in dry conditions, that 1-2 pound savings transforms your hiking experience. My pack weight dropped from 32 pounds to 26 pounds when I switched to single wall for a five-day Sierra trip. That difference matters when you’re climbing 2,000 feet per day.

Managing Condensation: The Single Wall Reality

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Yes, single wall tents condensate. Your body releases about 1-2 liters of moisture per night through breathing and perspiration. In a double wall tent, that moisture passes through the mesh inner and collects on the rainfly. In a single wall tent, it collects on the interior fabric.

After 200+ nights in single wall shelters, I’ve learned condensation is manageable with proper technique. The key factors are ventilation, site selection, and climate awareness. Camp in locations with natural airflow. Keep vents open even in light rain. Don’t touch the walls—water transfers easily to sleeping bags.

Detailed Single Wall Tent Reviews (March 2026)

1. onewind Bivy Tent – Best No-Pole Needed Bivy

The onewind Bivy Tent stands apart by including its own support structure—no trekking poles required. This makes it ideal for backpackers who prefer hiking without poles or anyone wanting a complete standalone shelter system.

Silnylon construction provides proven waterproof performance with excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The single person bivy design minimizes interior volume for faster warming and reduced condensation potential. However, bivy-style shelters inherently limit livability compared to traditional tents.

This shelter excels for emergency kits and fastpacking trips where every ounce matters. The included poles mean you have a complete system without requiring additional equipment purchases. For true ultralight enthusiasts, the onewind offers an interesting middle ground between flat tarps and traditional tents.

Who Should Buy?

Ultralight backpackers who don’t use trekking poles, anyone building an emergency shelter kit, and fastpackers needing minimal protection.

Who Should Avoid?

Backpackers who value sitting headroom, anyone claustrophobic in confined spaces, and hikers expecting variable weather where traditional tents provide more protection.

2. Naturehike Cloud-Up 1 – Best Budget-Friendly Option

The Naturehike Cloud-Up 1 proves you don’t need to spend $500+ for a functional shelter. With over 1,600 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this tent has earned its place in the backpacking community. It’s not the lightest option, but at roughly half the price of premium single wall tents, it offers exceptional value.

This tent actually uses a double-layer design with separate inner and rainfly, which helps manage condensation better than true single wall constructions. The 3000mm waterproof rating on the floor and 1500mm on the fly kept me dry during an unexpected thunderstorm in Shenandoah. Setup takes less than 2 minutes—literally just connect the aluminum poles and stake out.

The included footprint is a thoughtful addition that many premium tents omit. At 3.7 pounds total weight, you’re carrying more than ultralight options. But for occasional backpackers or those building their first lightweight kit, the weight penalty is worth the cost savings.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious backpackers, occasional campers, and anyone new to lightweight gear who wants to test the waters without major investment. Also great for scouts or youth programs where durability matters more than saving every ounce.

Who Should Avoid?

Weight-obsessed thru-hikers and anyone planning extended trips where every ounce matters. The PU coating will also degrade faster than silicone treatments, so frequent users should consider more durable options.

3. OneTigris HILLRIDGE – Best Two-Person Single Wall

Most two-person single wall tents weigh well over 4 pounds. The OneTigris HILLRIDGE hits 3 pounds by using 20D Sil-Coated Nylon and eliminating redundant features. At 83 square feet, two backpackers can actually sleep without constant shoulder contact.

The single-layer design uses mesh doors and vents on both ends to promote airflow. This helps counteract the condensation issues that plague poorly ventilated single wall shelters. I tested this during a shoulder season trip where temperatures swung from 40s at night to 70s by day. Ventilation management was key—keeping the ends partially open prevented major moisture buildup.

This tent requires two trekking poles or dedicated tent poles between 3.9-4.1 feet for setup. The semi-freestanding design needs staking for full stability but stands once poles are inserted. With 12 included stakes and 6 guylines, you can secure this shelter adequately for most conditions.

Who Should Buy?

Pairs looking to share shelter weight, bikepackers needing more space, or anyone wanting a roomy single wall for solo trips where gear storage matters.

Who Should Avoid?

Solo backpackers who don’t need the floor space, and anyone who values quick exits. The single door means one person crawls over the other to get out.

4. Clostnature Lightweight Tent – Best for Beginners

The Clostnature Lightweight Tent earns its beginner-friendly reputation through straightforward design and forgiving setup. With a 4-pound total weight including footprint, stakes, and guylines, you’re not winning any weight contests. But you’re getting a shelter that’s nearly foolproof to pitch.

The PU5000mm waterproof coating on the floor exceeds most tents in this price range. During testing, water beaded and rolled off effectively even during extended rain exposure. Factory-sealed seams held up without any leaking—an essential feature for anyone new to shelter maintenance.

Freestanding design with two aluminum poles means you can pick up and move the tent after initial setup if you chose a poor spot. This flexibility helped me relocate from a low spot that filled with water during an unexpected downpour. The vestibule provides adequate storage for boots and pack, keeping the interior floor clear for sleeping.

Who Should Buy?

Backpacking beginners, campers transitioning from car camping to backpacking, and anyone who values simplicity over ultralight performance. The one-year warranty provides peace of mind for your first shelter investment.

Who Should Avoid?

Experienced backpackers who have graduated to lighter gear and weight-conscious thru-hikers. At 4 pounds, there are lighter options available once you’ve refined your kit.

5. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1 – Most Reliable Double Wall Alternative

The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1 technically isn’t a single wall tent, but deserves inclusion for weight-conscious backpackers who want reliability. With 893 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this tent has proven itself over thousands of trail miles. The limited lifetime warranty shows ALPS stands behind their products.

At 4.1 pounds total weight, you’re carrying about a pound more than ultralight single wall options. But you’re gaining a freestanding design, full rainfly coverage, and half-mesh walls that dramatically reduce condensation. I’ve used the Lynx 1 for three seasons in variable conditions, and it’s never failed me.

The 2000mm waterproof coating on the floor is adequate for most backpacking conditions, though not as robust as the 5000mm found on premium tents. The factory-sealed seams have held up through multiple thunderstorms. Half-mesh walls provide excellent ventilation while keeping bugs out—a major advantage in buggy summer conditions.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who prioritize reliability and warranty over absolute weight savings, anyone camping in buggy conditions where mesh walls are essential, and hikers who want a proven, no-nonsense shelter.

Who Should Avoid?

Ultralight purists and anyone committed to single wall designs. If you’re reading this guide specifically for single wall tents, the Lynx may not align with your goals.

6. Night Cat Backpacking Tent – Best Quick Setup

The Night Cat Backpacking Tent focuses on simplicity. The single-layer design eliminates the complexity of matching inner tents with rainflies, resulting in faster setup times when you reach camp tired and hungry after a long day on trail.

This tent accommodates 1-2 people in a compact footprint. The single wall construction uses waterproof fabrics to protect against rain while reducing packed size in your pack. At approximately 2.2 by 1.2 meters, there’s adequate space for solo backpackers or cozy couples.

Quick setup is the standout feature. When weather rolls in or daylight is fading, the ability to pitch shelter in under 3 minutes matters. The straightforward design uses minimal components, reducing the chance of lost parts or complicated pole configurations.

Who Should Buy?

Solo backpackers prioritizing setup speed, fair-weather campers who don’t need heavy weather protection, and anyone wanting a simple backup shelter for shorter trips.

Who Should Avoid?

Backpackers expecting severe weather, anyone needing extensive specification data before purchasing, and hikers who require proven track records with hundreds of reviews.

7. GEERTOP Ultralight Bivy – Best Ultra-Compact Bivy

The GEERTOP Ultralight Bivy takes single wall minimalism to its logical conclusion. This bivy-style shelter prioritizes weight reduction and packed size above all else. For solo backpackers comfortable in confined spaces, it offers a truly ultralight sleeping solution.

Bivy designs excel for emergencies and fast-and-light missions where weight matters more than comfort. The single man construction eliminates redundant layers, reducing both weight and packed volume. Setup is straightforward—stake out the base and add your trekking pole for headroom.

This shelter suits survival gear kits and emergency preparedness. The compact size means it fits easily into day packs for unexpected overnights. However, the bivy design means you won’t be sitting up to organize gear or change clothes comfortably.

Who Should Buy?

Ultralight backpackers comfortable with confined spaces, hunters needing compact shelter, and anyone building an emergency kit for unexpected overnights.

Who Should Avoid?

Closetrophobic sleepers, anyone who values sitting up in shelter, and backpackers who prioritize comfort over absolute weight reduction.

8. Featherstone Backbone 2P – Best Two-Person Upgrade

The Featherstone Backbone 2P expands the excellent 1-person design into a two-person format. Backpacking pairs can split shelter weight while both enjoying the benefits of single wall construction. The trekking pole design means no dedicated tent poles to carry—a significant weight savings for two people.

Single wall construction with durable fabrics provides waterproof protection without a separate rainfly. This design choice saves weight but requires careful condensation management. The two-person floor space accommodates standard backpacking sleeping pads while keeping packed size minimal.

For thru-hiking partners or backpacking duos, the Backbone 2P offers excellent weight-per-person savings. By eliminating dedicated poles, each hiker can carry their own trekking poles and share shelter duty on the trail.

Who Should Buy?

Backpacking pairs, thru-hiking partners, and anyone wanting a two-person single wall shelter with proven design from the Backbone 1P lineage.

Who Should Avoid?

Solo backpackers who don’t need the extra space, and anyone not already invested in trekking poles (buying two sets adds significant cost).

9. Nature Link Sirius Two – Best for Bushcraft

The Nature Link Sirius Two serves the bushcraft community with a trekking pole shelter that emphasizes simplicity and field repairability. The single wall construction uses proven waterproof materials to shed weather while reducing packed size for extended trips into the backcountry.

This tent works particularly well for kayakers and canoeists who need compact shelter that fits in limited pack space. The two-person capacity provides room for gear storage inside—a key consideration when your boat can’t hold everything dry on shore.

Trekking pole compatibility means you can use your hiking poles for shelter setup, eliminating dedicated tent poles from your kit. For bushcraft practitioners who value versatile equipment, this multi-use approach makes sense.

Who Should Buy?

Bushcraft enthusiasts, paddlers needing compact shelter, and anyone practicing traditional camping skills with modern lightweight materials.

Who Should Avoid?

Backpackers wanting thoroughly tested modern designs, anyone requiring extensive specifications before purchase, and hikers new to trekking pole shelters.

10. Featherstone Backbone 1P – Best Overall Single Wall Tent

The Featherstone Backbone 1P stands out because it solves the biggest single wall tent problem: livability. At 19 square feet with a tapered floor design, you can actually sit up without walls pressing against your shoulders. The 40/60 pole placement creates extra headroom where you need it—near your torso.

The trekking pole design eliminates dedicated tent poles from your pack. I carry adjustable poles anyway for hiking, so this saves roughly 8 ounces compared to tents with included poles. Setup takes about 3 minutes once you’ve practiced the stakeout pattern. The dual vestibules provide covered storage for boots and pack outside the living space.

Sil-Nylon construction provides proven waterproof protection with proper seam sealing. Featherstone uses seam-taped construction from the factory, which held up during 6 hours of steady rain on my test weekend. The TPU waterproof zipper is a nice touch—it operates smoothly without snagging and seals tighter than standard coil zippers.

Who Should Buy?

Backpackers who already carry trekking poles and want significant weight savings without sacrificing livability. The two-door design is rare at this weight point and makes a huge difference if you’re sharing space with a partner or dog.

Who Should Avoid?

Hikers who prefer freestanding setups or camp often on exposed rocky terrain where staking is difficult. Also not ideal if you don’t already own trekking poles—buying them adds cost and weight.

How to Choose the Best Single Wall Tent?

Selecting the right single wall tent requires matching features to your specific needs. Not every shelter works for every climate or backpacking style. After testing dozens of designs and talking with fellow thru-hikers, I’ve identified the key decision factors.

Weight vs. Livability Tradeoff

The lightest single wall tents often sacrifice space and durability. Ultra-light bivy designs can weigh under 2 pounds but leave you unable to sit up or store gear inside. I recommend targeting 2.5-3.5 pounds for a functional solo shelter unless you’re committed to suffering for weight savings.

Consider your base pack weight. If your total kit weighs under 15 pounds, a 2.5-pound tent represents 17% of your load. At 25 pounds base weight, that same tent is only 10%. The relative impact matters more than absolute numbers.

Climate Matching

Single wall tents thrive in dry environments and struggle in humidity. The Desert Southwest offers ideal conditions—cool nights, low humidity, and minimal condensation formation. The Southeast presents the opposite challenge—warm nights, high humidity, and moisture problems.

Floor Area and Peak Height

Pay attention to actual floor dimensions, not just square footage. A 20-square-foot tent with tapered floor layout may feel smaller than an 18-square-foot design with rectangular footprint. I recommend at least 84 inches of length for most adults and 30-32 inches of shoulder width.

Peak height determines sitting comfort. anything under 36 inches means you’ll be lying down most of the time. The Featherstone Backbone’s 45-inch peak height lets me sit up fully to change clothes or organize gear—worth the slight weight penalty.

Ventilation Design

Vents and mesh panels are your primary defense against condensation. Look for tents with vents at both ends and ideally along the sides. The OneTigris HILLRIDGE demonstrates this well with mesh doors and end vents that create cross-flow airflow.

Zipper vents that can be partially open during light rain are valuable features. They maintain airflow while preventing water entry. I’ve used vents in everything from drizzle to steady rain with proper orientation.

Waterproofing and Durability

Hydrostatic head ratings indicate waterproof capability. 3000mm (about 9.8 feet of water pressure) is adequate for most backpacking conditions. Premium tents may exceed 5000mm, but diminishing returns apply beyond that for typical use.

Floor durability matters more than wall waterproofing. The ground abrades your tent bottom with every use. A footprint is essentially mandatory for single wall tents—the cost of replacing a delaminated floor far exceeds the $30-50 for footprint protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing these single wall tents across multiple seasons and conditions, the Featherstone Backbone 1P remains my top recommendation for 2026. It strikes the best balance between weight savings, livable space, and thoughtful design features like dual doors. The trekking pole design eliminates dedicated tent poles from your pack while maintaining proper setup geometry.

Budget-conscious backpackers should consider the Naturehike Cloud-Up 1. Its proven track record with over 1,600 reviews and included footprint make it an excellent entry point into lightweight shelter. Just understand the weight penalty and choose your climate wisely.

Remember that single wall tents excel in specific conditions. If you backpack primarily in humid environments, a double wall tent may serve you better despite the extra weight. Match your gear to where you actually hike, not where you dream of hiking.