Ultralight Backpacking Tent 2P Review — Hands-On Test & Verdict
Our Verdict
Top-tier ultralight backpacking tent. Outstanding weight-to-space ratio with excellent weather protection.
Full Review
The TerraNova Ultralight 2P Tent is a thru-hiker's dream. At 1.45kg trail weight, it competes with tents costing significantly more. We tested this tent on a 4-day backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada, encountering both calm nights and 30mph wind gusts. The freestanding dome design with silicone-coated flysheet shrugged off everything Mother Nature threw at it. Setup is genuinely fast — the color-coded poles and clips had us pitched in under 3 minutes. The dual vestibules are a luxury at this weight; both hikers had room for packs and boots outside the sleeping area. Our main concern is the 20D floor fabric — it is thin enough that a sharp rock could puncture it, so a footprint is essential. The 2-person rating is also optimistic; it is comfortable for two slim hikers, but two broader individuals will feel cramped. For solo use, it is palatial.
What We Like
- At 1.45kg, genuinely ultralight for a 2-person tent
- Silicone-coated nylon provides excellent weather resistance
- Freestanding design pitches easily on hard ground
- Dual vestibules offer generous gear storage
- Color-coded setup system reduces pitch time dramatically
What Could Be Better
- 20D floor fabric requires careful site selection
- Two-person rating is cozy — consider sizing up
- Premium price for the ultralight category
Who Is It Best For?
Key Features
- Weight: 1.45kg (trail weight)
- 20D silicone-coated nylon fly
- 15D nylon mesh inner
- Dual vestibules for gear storage
- Color-coded setup system
- Freestanding dome design