comparative review
BUDGET 1-PERSON TENTS
Getting away from it all isn’t just for experts with expendable income. Lara Dunn tried out a few more modestly priced options to help you achieve wanderlust lift-off
The spacious Robens Starlight was Lara’s Best in Test
Photo credit: Oase Outdoors ApS
ONE-PERSON BACKPACKING TENTS come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The price tags attached to them vary just as wildly, as does performance. There is a correlation between price and performance, but it is perfectly possible to buy a tent that will deliver a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience at a price that won’t break the bank.
Regardless of the cost, choosing a tent is about balancing key attributes: weight vs packability vs comfort vs durability vs protection and useability. Quick and easy pitching are desirable too.
It’s important for the tent to offer a decent level of useable space whatever the weather – and as our sizes differ, so too will our needs. Think about cover for kit during prolonged rain – that extra space can make all the difference. The fabric also needs to be sufficiently protective. Look for a hydrostatic head (the measure of how much water can stand on the material before it leaks) over 1000mm for the flysheet, and higher for the groundsheet, to protect you from the weather.
The shape and dimensions of the tent are down to personal preference, and whether it’s eco-friendly or not will be important to some too. Some designs are more wind-resistant than others, and therefore better suited to higher camps. Pay attention to ventilation options, and the number of guylines.
Here’s our pick of the best budget tents – these are the models we think will offer comfort, reliability and practicality, all without breaking the bank.