You can cut a lot of base weight without paying cottage-brand prices. Budget ultralight tents usually save money with heavier fabrics, simpler poles, or less polished seam work, not by being unsafe.
Seal the seams if the maker doesn’t, and do a test pitch in your yard before your first trip.
Buying criteria
- Factory-taped seams vs seam-seal-it-yourself
- Hydrostatic head rating for fly and floor
- Stake and guyline quality included (you may want to upgrade)
- Zipper size and durability
- Warranty and how easy returns are
Also see: Home · How to Choose an Ultralight Tent · Best Ultralight Tents · Affiliate Disclosure