The Joys of Camping: Top 7 Small Tents to Level Up Your Adventure
Camping is all about breathing in that fresh air, getting closer to nature, and embracing sleeping under the stars (or rain) on the ground—it’s all part of the adventure! But fear not, fellow campers and adventurers. Here are my 7 favorite 2-3 person tents that might make “roughing it” a bit more comfortable. Let’s dive in!
From a Hand-Me-Down to the Caribbean Chronicles
Let’s take a quick journey through my tent experiences, starting in 1993—the year I got my first camping tent, a green 2-person Eureka tent, as a hand-me-down in exchange for my TV. From backyard sleepovers to that high school camping trip where it “took us 4 hours to put up” and “came down in 4 seconds” (thanks to a midnight mishap), this Eureka was the spark for a lifelong love of camping.
Fast forward to 1996, when I bought my first tent, a 2-person Moss tent. This tent was with me through all seasons, from summer to winter camping, for nearly 20 years. But a move to the Caribbean in 2016 changed things. Between improper storage, humidity, and the devastation from Hurricanes Irma and Maria, I lost that beloved Moss tent and most of my belongings.
While helping to rebuild St. John, camping gear wasn’t my top priority. Eventually, I became the captain of a catamaran, which gave me little off-season time for camping. But in 2021, with a short break during hurricane season, I visited New England and decided to plan some camping. With a new adventure in mind, it was time to find a tent!
The Quest for the Perfect Tent
A stop at Eastern Mountain Sports in Portsmouth, NH, was just what I needed. I had already done my research and narrowed my choices to 7 high-quality 2-person tents. Since I had the North Face Stormbreak 3-person tent for camping with my partner, this new one would be for solo New England adventures. Lucky for me, they had the Mountain Smith Morrison Evo 2 in stock.
With my new tent in hand, I was ready to relive the joy of outdoor freedom. From easy setup to spacious comfort, the Morrison Evo 2 quickly earned a place on my top tent list.
Why the Mountain Smith Morrison Evo 2 Rocks
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable, easy-to-set-up tent for your next adventure, the Mountain Smith Morrison Evo 2 deserves your attention. Here’s why:
- Two Doors and Two Vestibules: No more climbing over your partner in the middle of the night.
- Perfect Size: Cozy for two people or roomy for solo campers.
- Quick Setup: Comes with a footprint for fast setup—perfect when you’re on the go.
- Three-Season Design: Handles a range of weather, from chilly evenings to warm summer nights.
- Extra Headroom: The brow pole adds headspace and stability.
- Breathable Mesh Panels: Enjoy cool airflow without the bugs.
- Taped Floor and Bathtub Construction: Keeps you dry even in damp conditions.
- Reflective Guylines: Makes it easier to navigate around the tent at night.
- Interior Storage Pockets: Stay organized with handy storage options.
Materials:
Built to last, with water-resistant 68d Poly PU materials and sturdy 7000 Series Aluminum Alloy poles.
Dimensions and Weight:
93” × 56” × 45” (L × W × H), 6 lbs 9 oz with footprint, 5 lbs 9 oz trail weight.
In summary, the Morrison Evo 2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a durable, spacious, and easy-to-set-up tent. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, this tent won’t let you down!
The North Face Stormbreak 3: Your Classic Three-Person Tent
Embarking on the Western Wilderness Quest
Exploring the Rockies to the Cascades, I wanted a roomy tent for both backcountry and campground adventures. The North Face Stormbreak 3 checked all the boxes for space, comfort, and durability. Here’s why this tent is worth considering.
Why the Stormbreak 3 is a Winner
- Weatherproof Design: Built to withstand wind, rain, and unexpected weather.
- Effortless Setup: Goes from packed to pitched in minutes, even for beginners.
- Ample Space: Perfect for two people with gear or a cozy setup for three.
- Ventilation: High-low vents keep air circulating, reducing stuffiness.
- Eco-Friendly: Made with environmentally-conscious materials.
Technical Details:
- Weight: 6 lbs 10 oz total weight
- Floor Area: 39.72 ft²
- Peak Height: 3’9″
- Features: Two doors, mesh pockets, and fully seam-taped for weather resistance.
Whether you’re an experienced backcountry camper or a first-timer, the Stormbreak 3 provides a comfortable, eco-friendly shelter for all your adventures.
REI Co-op Half Dome 2 Plus: Roomy and Durable
The Half Dome 2 Plus is perfect for anyone who needs extra room to stretch out. With a freestanding design, a seam-sealed rainfly, two doors, and vestibules, this tent is almost like having your own tiny wilderness hotel.
MSR Hubba Hubba NX: Lightweight Marvel
Meet the Hubba Hubba NX—light as a feather and easy to set up. Its mesh windows offer refreshing cross-breezes, keeping you cool and comfortable. Ideal for backpackers who want a reliable, lightweight tent.
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2: Ultralight and Spacious
The Copper Spur HV UL2 defies gravity with its ultralight design. Despite its weight, it offers generous space and two doors/vestibules, making it perfect for hikers who don’t want to compromise on comfort.
NEMO Dagger 2P: Balanced and Spacious
The NEMO Dagger 2P strikes a balance between weight, durability, and livability. With a single-pole setup and generous headroom, it’s great for campers who want simplicity and comfort.
Coleman Sundome 3-Person Tent: Affordable and Reliable
For budget-conscious campers, the Coleman Sundome 3-Person Tent is a reliable choice. The WeatherTec system ensures dryness, and it has enough space for three people. It’s a classic that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tent can make a huge difference in your camping experience. Whether you prioritize durability, lightweight design, or spaciousness, these 7 top 2-3 person tents offer something for everyone. With the right tent, you’ll be ready to enjoy the great outdoors in style and comfort. Happy camping, and may your adventures be filled with laughter, good times, and perfectly melted chocolate in your s’mores!
Ready to take your camping experience to the next level? Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned adventurer, there’s a tent on this list for you. Share your favorite camping memories or must-have tent features in the comments below. Let’s keep the adventure going—happy trails!