From trailblazing the ridges and ranges by day, to stargazing the milky way by night – overnight or extended hiking trips require a suitable hiking tent.
Don’t just take our word for it. A high-performing tent will often receive good reviews. The more favourable the reviews, the more people are inclined to purchase and subsequently review it themselves – thus continuing the cycle.
Basically, our customers have made the decisions. We’re just here to spread the word!
No, this isn’t a ranking of the ten most ‘technical’ tents. There are no hidden agendas or incentives, nor any imitations on price or brand. No strings – sorry, guy ropes – attached.
Instead, we’ve given bias the boot and determined the ten most popular tents by the number of sales, both online and instore at Snowys, over the past 12 months.
Each tent falls within the boundaries of standard hiking tent criteria, including weight and dimensions – and while this year’s top contenders almost mirror the last, some have shuffled in the rank. So, let’s get kicking to the pinnacle!
10. MSR Elixer 2 Hiking Tent
Last seen as a finalist in 2018, the Elixir 2 Hiking Tent by MSR offers both easy access and a roomy interior for two people.
Still boasting 35% more space in the vestibules than the original model, the colour-coded frame set-up and included footprint mean set-up is easy – both with or without a fly.
The inner is comprised of 40-Denier Ripstop nylon, while a 20-Denier nylon micromesh offers superior ventilation and a million-star view of the sky at the removal of the fly.

The Elixir 2 Hiking Tent by MSR offers both easy access and a roomy interior for two people. Credit: MSR
9. BlackWolf Mantis Ultralight 1 Hiking Tent
A blissful sanctuary for the solitary soul-searchers on the slopes – the Mantis UL 1 from BlackWolf is both low-profile and ergonomic, designed for hiking and backpacking amid weather conditions ranging from mild to wild.
Its lightweight and pack-friendly design has you hot on the heels and ready for adventure, while its low-profile structure bodes well for steadiness in adverse conditions. A waterhead rating of 2000 millimetres with taped seams battles the brutality of heavy rain. Meanwhile, the vestibule provides the means for additional storage, and the No-See-Um mesh vents double as insect protection and a means of airflow.
For the hikers fresh to the tracks, or the mountaineers savvy with money – the BlackWolf Mantis Ultralight 1 Hiking Tent is recommended as a compact, lightweight, and roomy choice.
The Mantis UL 1 from BlackWolf boasts a lightweight, pack-friendly for hiking and backpacking. Credit: BlackWolf
8. OZtrail Hiker 2P and 3P Dome Tents
Reappearing for the third year in a row, the budget-friendly OZtrail Hiker Dome tents is available as a 2-person and 3-person design, both featuring an old school A-frame fibreglass pole design.
For protection from sun-degradation, the fly is constructed from a UVTex fabric, while heat-taped seams help prevent leaks in the wetter weather. The polyester and No-See-Um mesh inner also allows for adequate ventilation.
For the first-timers or entry-level climbers, the OZtrail Hiker Domes are the ideal beginner’s tents.

The OZtrail Hiker Domes are the ideal beginner’s tents. Image: OZtrail
7. Outdoor Connection Howqua 2P and 3P Hiking Tents
From tearing up the tracks to hitting the sack, the Howqua 2P and 3P tents by Outdoor Connection are the most ideal lightweight tent for the kayakers, backpackers, or motorcycle tourers.
The two-pole design allows more space within the tent, with an inner of polyester and No-See-Um mesh for breathability. Be it pitter-pattering, or pelting – stay protected from rain with a 3000 millimetre waterhead rating, heat-taped seams, and a 75-Denier 210 polyester fly. With space for boots and bags in the the vestibules, enter and exit your personal hikers’ hub from either of the dual doorways.
With a minimalist set-up and a price to match, the Howqua 2P and 3P tents are a tourer’s most trusted travel companion.

The Outdoor Connection Howqua tents are the most ideal lightweight tent for kayakers, backpackers, or motorcycle tourers. Credit: Outdoor Connection
6. Zempire Mono and Atom 1P Single Pole Hiking Tents
For unparalleled simplicity blended with robust performance, the single-pole design of the Zempire Mono ensures a minimum weight while maintaining strength and performance in the field. Coupled with a convenient pack size, the Mono is perfect for solo adventures – providing enough sleeping space for one, plus a single vestibule for your gear, gadgets, and boots. With a full mesh inner, high-end alloy poles, and unbendable Tri-pegs – it also boasts an an impressive waterhead rating.
Rubbing shoulders with the Mono is Zempire’s Atom, a similar tent with similar sales numbers. Both feature the same materials and packed size, with the exception of the Atom’s brow pole allowing for a more comfortable upright position when there’s a need to bunker down in unideal conditions.
The Zempire Mono and Atom are superior mid-range tents for lightweight adventurers.
The Atom’s brow pole allows for a more comfortable upright position when there’s a need to bunker down in unideal conditions. Credit: Zempire
The Zempire Mono represents unparalleled simplicity blended with robust performance. Credit: Zempire
5. BlackWolf Grasshopper Ultralight 2P and 3P Hiking Tents
Climbing the ranks since 2020, the BlackWolf Grasshopper Ultralight tent is Available in two and three-person variants. While these models have been featured in the BlackWolf range for many years, the brand has only decided to incorporate the use of lighter-weight fabrics within recent years.
The unique pole structure forms a dome shape with upright sidewalls, allowing for more internal space. With two teardrop-shaped doors and vestibules, the Grasshopper’s inner is constructed entirely from mesh for superior ventilation. Thanks to the colour-coded poles, you can be set up by sundown and packed down by daybreak.
The Grasshopper Ultralight tents by Black Wolf are a lightweight, mid-range option, ideal for use in the warmer and shoulder seasons.

The tent’s unique pole structure forms a dome shape with upright sidewalls, allowing for more internal space. Credit: BlackWolf
4. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2P and Solo Hiking Tents
Compatible camping companions, the Hubba Hubba NX 2P and Solo hiking tents challenge any co-campers in your set-up at the summit.
With an inner of high-tenacity nylon fabrics, the fly boasts an Xtreme Shield™ Waterproofing Coating that both resists fabric gumminess and lasts up to three times longer than standard coatings. Their all-in-one hub and pole system not only expands the interior space for maximum head and elbow room, but bodes well for sturdiness amid the gusts and gales.
Trumping the streetlights of big city backstreets, achieve that million-star view from the mountaintops with the option to completely roll back the fly on clear nights. Equipped with reflective guy ropes, MSR Needle stakes, and adjustable stake-out loops – the MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2P and Solo hiking tents offer the perfect pitch for a pair of trailblazers or a solitary swashbuckler.
A true companion, the Hubba Hubba NX 2P hiking tent challenges any co-campers in your set-up at the summit! Credit: MSR
3. Explore Planet Earth Spartan 2P and 3P Hiking Tents
They may not be the lightest hiking tents on the list – but the EPE Spartan 2P and 3P tents boast the most butt-kicking blend of quality and affordability.
Together, durable fabrics and alloy poles create a roomy and functional shelter, also featuring superior weatherproof properties. With a solid inner and mesh doors, the Spartan 2P and 3P tents reflect a true three-season tent, embellished with internal storage pockets, lantern hanging points, and a compression storage sack.
The EPE Spartan hiking tents take the eager adventurers from the metropolitan maze to the trails primed to blaze!
The EPE Spartan 2P and 3P tents boast the most butt-kicking blend of quality and affordability. Credit: Explore Planet Earth
2. OZtrail Nomad 1P and 2P Hiking Tent
Coming in at under a hundred bucks, it’s no wonder why these sell so well! This may suggest that they don’t boast the same user life as the higher end tents – but you get what you pay for, and these tents receive great feedback on their performance.
The OZtrail Nomad tents feature a mesh inner with basic fibreglass poles. While the Nomad 1 is a single-pole tent, the Nomad 2 is a 2-pole tunnel style design with two entrances and vestibules. Shaped longer than standard hiking tents, the Nomads are well-suited to the taller users who enjoy stretching out in their outback hangout.
For the budget hikers who like spending more time than money – the OZtrail Nomad tents are the better bedtime choice.
Shaped longer than standard hiking tents, the Nomads are well-suited to the taller users. Image: OZtrail
1. Companion Pro Hiker 2P Tent
After tapping the Companion Pro Hiker 2 Tent down to second place last year – we’re delighted to see it has now reclaimed its position as Number One! Despite discontinuing the one- and three-person models, Companion has maintained this two-person design – along with its near-perfect 5-star ratings.
A traditional dome style tent, the Pro Hiker 2 features dual doors and vestibules. By no means is it the lightest tent, nor does it offer as much internal space as some of its corrivals – but it remains both a reliable and affordable performer. With a robust floor, an inner constructed of three-season mesh and polyester, and alloy poles – the Pro Hiker 2 is conveniently furnished with roof vents, organiser pockets, and a gear loft for storage.
The Companion Pro Hiker 2 is where lightweight functionality reaches a crossroad with door-busting durability – at an affordable price.
The Companion Pro Hiker 2 is where lightweight functionality reaches a crossroad with door-busting durability – at an affordable price. Credit: Companion
Vaude Campo Compact 1-, 2- and 3-Person Tents
Designed in Germany, Vaude creates gear in The Spirit of Mountain Sports. With timeless design in mind, they develop innovative products using repairable, robust materials. Vaude have forged an award-winning position through their commitment to sustainability, based on their values which are “gentle on the planet, fair for the people of the world, and functional for you. That’s what outdoor gear and apparel is all about.”
Offering an uncomplicated design, wind stability, and quick pitching – these lightweight tents are manufactured using premium materials. From hiking, trekking, and backpacking, to mountaineering, switchback-ing, and bike-packing – Vaude offer the tents for when lightweight, minimalist packing is the top priority.
We can’t wait to see if they make our list of best-sellers next year!
Offering an uncomplicated design, wind stability, and quick pitching – these lightweight tents are manufactured using premium materials. Credit: Vaude
Thinking of investing in a hiking tent?
About the writer...

Trekker, surfer, climber, mountain biker, runner, camper. Participator in most things… master of none.
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Hi. Can you recommend a tent that would be good for newbie bikepackers? The tent would have to fit 2 adults plus gear most of the time but would also occasionally be used for one person plus gear. Thanks
G’day Carol, sorry for such a delayed reply! There are lots of factors that will influence your decision – budget and frequency of use being the biggest ones. The Snowys crew are usually in favour of ‘buying once. buying right’ but since you’re a bikepacking newbie, I’d suggest balancing your purchase with your enthusiasm. I.e. not outlaying a huge amount of cash straight up just in case you discover after a couple of trips, that it’s not really your thing.
With that in mind, you could go an entry-level hiking tent like Coleman’s Ridgeline which is one of our top-sellers and a pretty great tent for its price. We’ve received positive feedback from our customers too but I’d recommend the 3P over the 2P as the vestibule area isn’t huge and you may need the extra space for storage, especially when travelling with 2.
https://www.snowys.com.au/ridgeline-3p-hiking-tent
If you’re super keen on doing regular trips and you’ve got the budget, a mid-range hiking tent will present better value in the long run without you handing over a huge amount of cash for a top-dollar tent.
If going mid-range, I reckon it’s a toss-up between 3 and some of our Snowys crew are using these themselves…
Marmot Tungsten 2P – great vestibule room for your gear and dual entry.
https://www.snowys.com.au/tungsten-2p-hiking-tent
Black Wolf Grasshopper 2P or 3P – depending on how much gear you want to keep sheltered and how the regularity of solo trips vs 2 of you.
https://www.snowys.com.au/grasshopper-ul2-hiking-tent
https://www.snowys.com.au/grasshopper-ul3-hiking-tent
and
Zempire Zeus – quality materials plus a good amount of space for 2 of you plus gear.
https://www.snowys.com.au/zeus-hiking-tent
You might find it useful to read our customer reviews on each of those product pages as nothing beats gaining insight from people’s personal experiences. Plus, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Customer Support team – they’re awesome and always happy to help out. Cheers mate
service@snowys.com.au
1300 914 007
I would like to comment on the Marmot tent mentioned above. My brother and I both bought this tent and have used them a number of times on our semi regular sea kayaking expeditions. I like the design and the quality of the fabrik very much and have found it a very good ten sandy (with sand pegs) and poor camping environments which are common when sea kayaking. The poles are not of the same high quality, I have split the join in the spar that keeps the fly off the tent body, when I repaired the split it then split further down the spar on the next expedition. My brother has had the mainframe split at the join in a few places. When I reported this to the outlet they said that they had not had any complaints about this model and suggested I might be lying. My brother found a website where purchasers of this tent shared advice on how best to repair the frame joins that are prone to splitting, so much for this being a rare issue. He also posted on the Marmot site saying how much he liked the design of the tent but the frame joint weakness was an issue and his comment was deleted, no wonder you don’t hear about these issues. Would still like the tent if I could get a reliable (non-split joins) frame but am less impressed with the outlet and the company.
It sounds like your Tungsten tent hasn’t performed up to standard and that you haven’t been able to get a good response from the brand, so I’m sorry to hear about that Geoff.
As far as I can find, we haven’t had any other uses report the same issue with splitting, but that’s not to say that it doesn’t happen, it’s just something we weren’t aware of until now.
If you do have a problem with a tent you buy from us in future – just touch base with our customer support team and they will get it sorted on your behalf. Thanks for your two cents, Geoff! Cheers.
My Macpac Eclipse has been a gem, and more recently the Mannagum Howqua 2 has proved to be ideal for my motorcycle and kayak excursions …
I bought a tent a couple of years back that seems to have gone under the Radar. The Mannagum Delatite 1 is a little beauty. You can still pick them up but they seem to be rare. Around AU $150 – 200. I don’t know if you can get a footprint for them but if you could it would be fantastic. Light and easy to put up it is my favorite hiking tent.
Thanks Snowys. I’ve been trying to decide between a few of these tents for a while now. It’s nice to see them all in one place.
Thanks Snowys. I’ve been trying to decide between a few of these tents for a while now. It’s nice to see them all in one place.
I’ve got the atom and love it. I’d like something similar but freestanding for a cycling tour. Anything you’d recommend?
We’ve got a few options for you that are 1P freestanding tents depending on how much you want to spend starting with the Marmot Tungsten 1P tent which also comes in an ultralight, the Freelite 1 and the Hubba NX – I hope that gives you a few models to start your research Brad!
Vango 2 person tent… bought from the UK as I thought a 3 season UK tent would be equivalent to a 4 season in in Australia. Only issue is is def not lightweight. But stands up to the harsh conditions.
Absolutely Peter, our purchasing team brought the Vango tents into our range for that very reason! They’re ideal for winter use in Australia, but aren’t the lightest tents by any means.
Great ideas…what would you recommend in term 4p hiking tents…trying to keep as light as possible as carrying gear for x2 kids
We don’t have any 4P hiking tents in our range at the moment as they’re not a big seller for us, unfortunately. In the past, we have had the Papa Hubba from MSR which is a high quality 4P lightweight tent – so that might be a starting point for you Josie.
Even though I’m not in the market, I am a gear junkie so this tickled my interest, not showing weight though is a big miss for me.
If your milti-day/week hiking, weight is an important consideration.
My 1st 1P tent was 1.7kg (heavy). My latest a Big Agnes 2P (needs trekking poles) is 880g, this is still heavy for me and is used only when ground camping is a must.
Otherwise I use a ultra light Hammock/Tarp system.
I’m sure other gear junkies would definitely agree with your position, Matthew. However, we’ve put together this list from our sales data, and I suppose there are just a lot of beginner hikers out there who weren’t ready to splurge on ultralight tents this year!
Yep, totally agree , ultralight article with no weights mentioned at all. Very poor effort. Probably reflecting that none of these tents are ultralight. It’s very hard to find anything decent in Australia. Up your game and start offering some real ultralight tents snowys.
Great to have your input, Kent. As Emily explained in her response to Matthew, we use our sales figures to determine what is in most demand and this collection represents our best sellers from the past 12-months. We do have a new range of German expedition hiking tents coming so perhaps we’ll see those represented in next year’s list. Cheers
Don’t agree with many of these at all.
Some could be hiking tents if you split them up between two people but even then, there are tents that are way lighter (albeit more expensive).
That’s definitely an option Tim, but our top 10 is based on sales volume which probably why all the more affordable (but clearly heavier) models are so high on the list.
the main thing I was looking for in this article was ‘weight’. To be honest, no-one mildy serious about pack hiking would look at a tent over 1.7kg these days. Many wont go over 1.5kg.
Totally agree with Pro Hiker tent being number 1..we have Pro hiker 3 and used for car camping under a tarp ..so roomy inside and plenty of head space plus the extra short pole that keeps the two vestibule fly sheet from sagging.
No other hiking tents than Hilleberg for me. Quality, best weight to space ratio and last decades.
Soulo. That thing is a four season free standing bomb shelter, and worth the weight for cold weather camping or pagoda exploring where actual soil is minimal or non existent.
Critical to me are weight, packing size and price. I would like to see a summary table of these items.
That’s a fantastic idea Melvyn, the only thing is that it’s tricky to keep the info up to date but we will definitely keep this feedback in mind for next year, so watch this space. By the way, you can always just jump on our website and use the compare function in the meantime to see all the specs side by side if that helps – cheers!
Hi there,
Thanks for this post. I’m looking for a 3p hiking tent but it needs to be as light weight as possible, as I’ll be carrying it with other gear for taking kids overnight hiking, and I have knee issues. Can you advise what would be the lightest weight 3p tent you have at a reasonable price for someone who won’t be using it more than a few times a year? Thank you
No worries, we’re glad you liked the post Pden! In terms of our lightest 3P tents that are still high quality with enough interior space for kids, the EPE Spartan 3 is a good choice at 3.3 Kg. If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, then a step up in quality that’s lighter at 2.985 Kg is the Limelight 3P tent from Marmot. I hope that gives you a couple of options to work with, Pden – happy hiking!
What parts of the spartan 3 are mesh, and are any of them closable?
I’ve just double checked this for your with our display model Geoff, and the Spartan 3 tent has a solid inner, with mesh doors that can’t be closed off.
It seems the MSR isn’t available on the site! Will you be getting anymore in?
We have run out of the older model MSR Hubba tent as they’re not making them anymore, but I’ve just double checked this with our purchasing team, and we’re hoping to get the 2019 Hubba tents in mid-march, Christina.
I thought I asked this question previously but cant find a reply.
Why did you rate the Companion Pro Hiker above the EPE Spartan 2?
When I look at the price and the specifications the Spartan 2 seems to have advantages.
Lower in price by $10.00
Better water rating on both floor and fly.
The only advantage I see for the Companion Pro Hiker 2 is it is slightly wider.
I intend doing the Great Ocean Walk 100k after Christmas and need a tent so would appreciate a prompt reply.
Regards
Doug
Hi Doug, these are ordered purely based on sales i.e. we sell more Pro Hiker 2 tents, both of these tents are excellent value for money though. The Spartan 2 is a lesser-known tent which is likely why it has had fewer sales, or possibly because it offers less floor space, but I think that as time goes on we will see the Spartan 2 become a close competitor to the Pro Hiker 2. Personally, I prefer the Spartan 2 as the pole configuration facilitates upright walls and increased internal volume, the vents are also larger for better ventilation and it’s a touch lighter. That’s just my two cents worth though. Enjoy your walk.
How about a review of which tents are actually better? I don’t care that you sell more of a cheap tent because it’s cheap.
Which tents are better is very subjective, Chris. Better for what/who/where and for what price?
We don’t want to be biased towards any particular model and the best feedback we can get on any tent is from those who are using them regularly i.e. our customers. This has meant that some cheap tents have surfaced as particularly reliable and affordable models for their price. Any tent, whether they be cheap or expensive, that become a regular appearance on our warranty shelf quickly disappear from our range.
Give us a call if you’d like some help choosing a tent that is best for you.