Lightweight and ultra-lightweight tents

Lightweight and ultra-lightweight tents are, as the name suggests, very low-weight tents. They are perfect for adventurers who want to carry as little weight as possible but depend on their own tent for overnight stays. Think of hikers and cyclists travelling longer distances. In this blog, take a look at what exactly is meant by the terms lightweight and ultra-lightweight. What other choices do you have within these categories? And how do factors such as your planned adventure and destination, your own camping experience and your budget impact which tent is ultimately best for you?

Table of contents

• What are lightweight and ultra-lightweight tents?
• The influence of your adventure on the ideal tent for you
• Experience and budget

What are lightweight and ultra-lightweight tents?

et's start by saying that ‘lightweight’ and ‘ultra-lightweight’ are not official protected terms. So it is not the case that an ultralightweight tent has a certain maximum weight and if it exceeds that it becomes a lightweight tent. This also explains that what is classified as ultralightweight by one brand is sometimes still considered lightweight by another. The fact is that if a brand uses both terms, the term ultralightweight always refers to (even) lighter tents than the term lightweight does.

In any case, both lightweight and ultra-lightweight tents have a focus on very low weight (usually no more than 3 kg for a two-person tent) and a compact pack size. So they are ideal for hikers and cyclists who travel longer distances and need to carry their equipment with them. What are other typical features of an (ultra)lightweight tent?

Commonly used materials of (ultra)lightweight tents

(Ultra)lightweight tents use tent poles made of materials that are both strong and light. Think carbon (especially in ultra-lightweight tents) or aluminium. Fibreglass is used a lot less. While this is a light material, it does not withstand frequent tent pitching and taking down. The tent fabric of (ultra)lightweight tents often consists of polyamide (or nylon) or polyester.

Comfort in (ultra)lightweight tents

Ultralightweight tents are often minimalist in design, meant for one to two people. They offer just enough room to sleep in, but without extra space for luggage. Lightweight tents can be slightly more spacious and often offer extra features such as a small awning (vestibule) for storing your gear. What you also see more often in lightweight tents are pockets in the inner tent where you can store your mobile phone, for example.

The types of tents used for ultra-lightweight and lightweight camping are often the same. Usually, these are tunnel tents, dome tents or hybrid tents. Larger groups may also opt for a lightweight tipi tent. (Ultra)lightweight tents can also vary in the way they are set up. Freestanding tents are easier and quicker to pitch, while non-freestanding tents are often slightly lighter but require more skill and time when pitching. We therefore find the non-freestanding construction relatively more often among ultra-lightweight tents, while the freestanding construction is mainly used for lightweight tents.

Three or four seasons

(Ultra)lightweight tents are usually designed for three seasons, meaning they are suitable for spring, summer and autumn use. They provide adequate ventilation and protection from rain and light wind. Models suitable for four seasons are also available. These tents are stronger and more resistant to extreme weather conditions such as heavy snowfall and strong winds.

The influence of your adventure on the ideal tent for you

Where are you going to use your tent?

An important factor when choosing an (ultra)lightweight tent is your destination. Are you going to a rainy area with lots of wind or a drier area with lots of rock and stone? In a windy area, you will want a sturdy tent with good anchoring capabilities. For hot, humid environments, a waterproof tent with good ventilation is crucial. In short, every terrain and climate requires specific equipment. Also, some environments offer less suitable space to pitch your tent. Tents with a smaller surface area (including pegs and guy ropes) are then preferred.

What kind of activity will you undertake?

How intense is your adventure? Do you go all out and every gram less in your rucksack or pannier is welcome? Then the ultra-lightweight segment is the better choice for you. Don't care so much whether you have to lug half a kilo more or less? Then the slightly more comfortable lightweight corner is where you should look.

How long will your adventure last?

How long will your/your adventure last? The longer you stay away, the more nights you will spend in your tent. Perhaps a bit of comfort in the tent will then be welcome. A lightweight tent with a vestibule is then preferable to an ultra-lightweight tent. If you are only going away for one to three nights, it might not be so bad to be slightly less comfortable for a few nights.

How many people are you going on an adventure with?

For a solo adventure, a single tent is obviously sufficient, but there are plenty of solo adventurers who still opt for a two-person tent to have a little extra space. If you go in a tent for two, then with the same considerations in mind, you can opt for a two-person or a three-person tent.

A big advantage for a multi-person adventure is that you end up having to bring less gear per person. For example, you only need to bring one burner and pan set. As a result, you can also choose to bring a slightly heavier, but roomier and more comfortable tent.

Experience and budget

How much experience do you have with lightweight camping?

How experienced are you with lightweight camping? Do you know exactly what is important to you? Experienced campers often know exactly what they need and don't need. Haven't you? Then ask yourself how important comfort is to you in everyday life. And how easy you usually sleep. Take your answers to these questions into account when choosing an ultra-lightweight or lightweight tent.

What is your budget?

Lightweight tents are not cheap. This is even more true for ultra-lightweight tents. We therefore fully understand that you will not buy the ideal tent for every adventure you want to do. You will then have to think carefully about which tent is (sufficiently) suitable for all your planned adventures. Is it your first time wanting to go lightweight camping? You can then also choose to borrow a lightweight tent from a friend or family member once. You will then know more about exactly where your preferences lie.

Lightweight and ultra-lightweight camping is all about finding the right balance between weight, comfort and functionality. With careful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy the freedom of nature without unnecessary ballast. We hope you enjoy your adventure and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. Our specialists are ready to answer all your questions.