Best Wild Camping Tent

Here I will help you choose the best wild camping tent for your next camping trip or long weekend away. Regardless of whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting, I’ll have something for you in my list of wild camping tents.

Let’s cut directly to the chase – the Snugpak Ionosphere is my favourite tent. Read on to find out why.

With so many camping aspects to consider – weather protection, ease of setup, weight, size, and others – it’s crucial to find a tent that best suits your personal preferences and needs. 

Below, I will provide a comprehensive overview of what to look for in wild camping tents and take an in-depth look at some of the best on the market.

Backpacking Tents vs Wild Camping Tents

Is there a difference?

Even though “backpacking” and “wild camping” are often used interchangeably, these terms differ subtly. If you are hiking for a few days and carrying your tent, you will benefit the most by choosing a backpacking tent. These are typically compact and lightweight, so they can easily be carried in a backpack. All backpacking tents are wild camping tents.

On the other hand, wild camping tents come in all shapes all sizes based on the type of wild camping. If you are packing and only walking for a mile or so, it is easier to carry a larger, heavier tent. Some models are adaptable enough to be used for both backpacking and wild camping.

Reviews of the Best Wild Camping Tents

Vango Nevis 100 One Person Tent

The Vango is a solo backpacking tent that is a dream for camping. The Vango Nevis 100 perfectly balances lightness, durability, and comfort. Weighing less than 2 kilograms, this model is a convenient and lightweight option for wild campers who prefer camping alone or need private space while camping in a group.

The dimensions of 90 cm x 80 cm x 230 cm provide ample space for one person to sleep comfortably. A peak height of 90 cm, combined with the model’s overall compact design, allows a wild camper to sit upright inside. This turns Vango Nevis 100 into a genuinely inviting place to recharge after a day out in the wild. 

The excellent hydrostatic head rating of 5000mm is another of this model’s outstanding features. As such, the tent provides superior protection against the elements. This tent will give you a dry and comfortable wild camping experience in more or less any weather. 

Regarding structure, the Vango Nevis 100 sports a tunnel design. The result of this construction is outstanding stability in windy conditions. The brand’s Tension Band System is another feature that contributes to the model’s stability in high winds. It’s a simple but highly functional feature that makes the tent a reliable shelter in various weather conditions, enhancing its effectiveness for wild camping. 

The Nevis 100 sports a single-pole setup system, significantly reducing the setup time and simplifying the process. As a result, you can set up your campsite even if you arrive late at your wild camping spot or if the weather is adverse.

Regarding storage, Vango Nevis 100 allows its owner to maintain a clutter-free sleeping environment by providing them with a porch space. There, you can safely stow your gear away from your sleeping bag and the rest of the sleeping area. However, remember that this porch space can only accommodate a little gear – this is, after all, a 1-person wild camping tent.

Vango is one of the more well-known tent brands with a reputation for producing dependable outdoor gear, and this tent is no exception. As it’s crafted from sturdy materials that can withstand regular use on rugged terrain, it’s safe to say that Nevis 100 was built to last. Its durability, comfort, and convenience offer excellent value for money, especially if you’re a solo wild camper. 

MSR Hubba NX Tent

Favoured by solo wild campers for its ideal balance of reliable weight protection, superb comfort, and minimal weight, the Hubba NX tent is one of MSR’s most iconic products. This model has a negligible impact on your backpack load due to its ultralight 1.12 kg. It is an excellent choice for venturing off the beaten track and extended wild camping. 

The model’s dimensions (216 cm x 76 cm x 100 cm) are adequate for a one-person tent. Even a taller wild camper can sleep pretty comfortably in this tent. Featuring a 100 cm peak height, Hubba NX provides enough headroom for you to sit up comfortably. 

The model’s hydrostatic head rating of 3000mm deserves particular praise. In other words, this tent is robustly waterproof and capable of resisting heavy showers. As you already know, this is essential for our unpredictable weather in the UK.

Hubba NX is also easy to set up. The model features a freestanding one-pole design, which is straightforward and quick to pitch – this makes it great if you are pitching your tent at sunset.

MSR Hubba NX also boasts various convenient features, including interior mesh pockets for small necessities, a rainfly kickstand vent, and a small porch

With a blend of dependable weather protection, high comfort, and low weight, this model is an excellent solo tent versatile enough to handle various outdoor adventures, including wild camping. It’s held in high regard by thousands of wild campers for a good reason.

ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr 1-Person Tent

The Mountaineering Zephyr, made by ALPS, is well-known for its breathability, durability, and comfort. While certainly not the lightest option at 1.81 kg, the model still features a manageable weight for solo wild campers and backpackers. 

The Zephyr has a spacious interior, one of its most distinctive features. With 91 cm x 224 cm dimensions, ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr offers ample room for one camper to move around and sleep comfortably. Another thing that adds to the overall living comfort is the peak height of 91 centimetres – you can sit up comfortably. 

Rain and wet weather are no problem for this tent since its hydrostatic head rating is 1500mm. However, it might not perform as well in heavy rain as some of the other tents, with higher hydrostatic head ratings. 

A key focus of the Zephyr 1-Person tent is ventilation. Almost all of the tent’s walls are mesh, reducing condensation and enhancing air circulation. Moreover, this design offers a comfortable sleeping environment, no matter how warm it is outside.

Pitching ALPS Mountaineering Zephyr is straightforward to pitch due to its freestanding two-pole design.

Keeping the interior of the tent clutter-free is also easy, thanks to the model’s vestibule area. There are also interior mesh pockets for storing smaller items like your headlamp or electronic gadgets.

Zephyr is an excellent choice for any solo wild camper because it offers an easy setup, solid ventilation, and a spacious interior. Still, I recommended opting for a model with a higher hydrostatic head rating if you frequently camp in regions with heavy rainfall.

Snugpak Ionosphere 1-Person Tent

If you’re a solo wild camper seeking a highly weather-resistant, compact, and reliable tent, Snugpak’s Ionosphere model is an excellent option. This model is a lightweight 1.52 kg. This makes it a sensible choice for extended wild camping or backpacking adventures. 

Taller individuals will find plenty of room to stretch out in the 240 cm length of the tent. However, some campers may find sitting up in this model challenging, as its peak height is only 70 cm.

A hydrostatic head rating of 5000mm is one of the main selling points of the Ionosphere tent. The tent is highly resistant to harsh weather conditions, offering a comfortable and dry shelter in downpours combined with strong winds. It is, therefore, an excellent choice for wild camping with our unpredictable weather. 

Another thing that helps the Ionosphere withstand windy conditions is its design, i.e. its sleek silhouette and low profile. Moreover, the model’s single entry point minimises any weak points where water could enter.

One-pole design simplifies setup for the Ionosphere, making it relatively straightforward to pitch. This can be of great help when you need to pitch right away due to bad weather or when you’re tired after a long hike and want to set up camp as quickly as possible. 

There is no vestibule or storage space in the Ionosphere. Instead, the model features a spacious interior for both the camper and their wild camping equipment. While some might feel cramped, others might see this as an advantage. 

In conclusion, this tent is a solid option for solo wild campers – it’s a weather-resistant, well-made, and reliable shelter for long nights deep in the backcountry. Its trade-offs in separate storage space and the lack of headroom are offset by its ease of setup, low weight, and unmatched waterproof rating. 

MSR Expedition Access Tent

Are you seeking an easy-to-set-up, reliable, and rugged tent for your wild camping adventures? If so, MSR’s Expedition Access Tent is an excellent choice. This mid-weight option weighs 2.16 kg and offers the comfort and durability needed for harsh environments and extended trips. 

The model’s dimensions of 84 x 213 cm will provide you with enough room for a comfortable night’s sleep, and you should also have no trouble moving around the tent. On the other hand, the 102 cm height of the MSR Expedition allows a wild camper to sit up, organise their equipment, and devise a plan for the next day without feeling constrained. 

Featuring a hydrostatic head rating of 3000mm, the Expedition Access Tent stands out for its robustness. You can stay dry inside even during heavy rains, as the model offers reliable waterproofing. 

However, what makes this particular model unique is its four-season compatibility. This tent can also handle snow thanks to its durable materials and structure, whose main job is to protect against strong winds and heavy rainfall. As such, it’s a fantastic option for year round wild camping. 

Thanks to Expedition Access’ unified, freestanding frame, pitching is simple and quick. As the tent is being pitched, the frame maintains its structural integrity, which can significantly help when trying to set up camp in windy weather. 

Regarding storage, this tent features a relatively spacious vestibule where you can put your gear and, in that way, keep the sleeping area clear of clutter. Moreover, Expedition Access has multiple interior pockets for the user’s small items. 

This MSR tent is a solid choice for wild camping veterans who often embark on lengthy trips into the rugged backcountry. Its convenient features, ease of setup, and remarkable resilience to harsh weather conditions make it a worthy investment if you’re serious about wild camping.

Wild Country Zephyros Compact Two Person Tent

As a weather-resistant, durable, and lightweight shelter, Wild Country Zephyros Compact 2 is a solid choice for any wild camping enthusiast. It’s an especially great option for weight-conscious folks due to its low weight (for a 2-person model). 

With dimensions of 230 cm x 310 cm, this tent offers plenty of space for a solo wild camper and is spacious enough to accommodate two people at once. You’ll never feel too confided inside this tent, thanks to its peak height of 90 cm. 

Regarding weather resistance, Zephyros Compact 2 features a hydrostatic head rating of 4000mm. As such, the model effortlessly handles heavy rain and keeps its occupant(s) dry and secure, no matter the weather. 

The thing that makes this tent incredibly easy to pack is its compact design. This portability, combined with the weight of 1.75 kg, makes it an excellent option for all backpackers, hikers, and wild campers. 

Zephyros Compact 2 pitches easily and efficiently. Due to its single pole, the model is quick to set up, so you can use it quickly whenever needed. Moreover, the tent’s freestanding design makes it easy to transport before finding an ideal wild camping spot.

While this is undoubtedly a 2-person tent, those planning to use it frequently might find it a little tight (particularly if you often carry a lot of equipment). However, the model features a vestibule area where gear can be stored.

To conclude, Wild Country’s latest tent is a solid choice for folks seeking an easy-to-set-up, sturdy, and lightweight tent for two people. Its outstanding balance of weather resistance, weight, and comfort make it one of the best wild camping tents currently available on the market. 

Vango Blade Pro 200 2 Person Tent

Wild camping enthusiasts will appreciate the comfort, reliability, and versatility of the Vango Blade Pro 200 tent. A mid-weight tent weighing 2.42 kg, the model provides plenty of space for couples or solo campers.

It offers generous interior space thanks to its dimensions of 150 cm x 310 cm. On the other hand, the model’s 95 cm peak height enhances its livability and comfort level by allowing room to sit up.

A remarkable feature of the Blade Pro 200 is its impressive weather resistance. The model’s hydrostatic head rating of 5000mm ensures high waterproofing. This tent is undoubtedly a fantastic option if you often find yourself in wet weather when wild camping. 

Running the length of the tent is a single pole that creates an efficient but simple structure that allows straightforward pitching. The simplicity of the tent’s design can be of great help when you have to pitch quickly due to incoming bad weather. It can also be very beneficial for wild camping beginners. 

As with most other tents reviewed in this article, this one also allows for gear storage with its vestibule area – when camping with Vango Blade Pro 200, you can keep the sleeping space free of unnecessary objects. You can also organise your smaller items in the tent’s convenient pockets. 

Although the Blade Pro 200 has many strengths, it also has a few drawbacks. While manageable, its weight is heavier than that of many other solo tents currently available on the market. Long-distance trekkers should consider this.

Still, this model is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a wild camping tent that balances reliability, durability, and comfort. Not only is Blade Pro 200 effortless to pitch, but it’s also very spacious and weather-resistant – what more could you need for wild camping?

Forceatt 2-3 Person Tent

What sets this tent apart from most other models reviewed in this article is that it can accommodate three people. Besides being spacious enough for families or small groups heading into the wild, Forceatt 2-3 Person Tent is also weather-resistant, durable, and comfortable. The model weighs 2.98 kg but, at the same time, provides ample space for its occupants. 

It can easily accommodate three people due to its impressive floor dimension of 185 cm x 225 cm. Regarding verticality, it sports a peak height of 110 cm. This means that all of the tent’s occupants can sit up without feeling restricted in any way. 

With a hydrostatic head rating of 3000mm, the Forceatt 2-3 Person Tent will be sufficiently weather-resistant for most wild campers. This level of waterproofing allows you and your gear to stay dry and comfortable during moderate to heavy rains. 

Another excellent feature of this model is its genuinely robust construction. Forceatt 2-3 Person Tent features premium, long-lasting materials and a wind-stable design that ensures a dependable shelter regardless of the weather.

Unlike most tents discussed above, this one sports a two-door design. This results in enhanced ventilation throughout the tent and easy access for all occupants. Moreover, this reduces condensation in the interior and assists in maintaining a comfortable temperature. 

Shock-corded aluminium poles are easy to handle and set up, making the pitching process as straightforward as possible. For even better ventilation during warm nights, the model employs a dual-layer design with an inner layer that can be used alone.

Still, due to its size and weight, there may be better choices than the Forceatt 2-3 Person Tent for solo trekkers or wild campers. But this tent is an excellent option for families and smaller groups seeking a weather-resistant, roomy, and dependable shelter for wild camping adventures.

Coleman Tent Oak Canyon 4-Person Family Tent

Designed with family wild camping trips in mind, the Coleman Tent Oak Canyon 4-Person Family Tent is one of the market’s most resilient and spacious shelters of this type. However, it is also the heaviest model on my list, weighing almost 17 kg. Still, its roominess more than makes up for the excessive weight. 

With dimensions of 280 cm x 480 cm, the model can easily accommodate a family of four. Another significant advantage is the peak height of two metres, providing enough room for all occupants to stand up. It’s a simple thing that dramatically adds to the overall livability and comfort. 

The waterproofing level of this large tent stands at 4500mm. This results in a remarkable degree of weather resistance – you’ll never have to worry about using this tent in harsh conditions. Coleman Oak Canyon is a genuinely great choice for groups of wild campers who often find themselves in regions with unpredictable climates. 

The BlackOut Bedroom, one of Coleman’s many in-house technologies, is yet another standout feature of this model. Its job is to block out up to 99% of daylight coming into the bedroom area. As a result, everyone in the tent can sleep well and wake up feeling refreshed in the morning.

On the other hand, the presence of colour-coded poles guarantees a straightforward and intuitive pitching process. This can significantly help when pitching in low-light conditions and greatly benefit families with little wild camping experience.

In addition to its multiple doors and large living area, the model has a sizeable porch and plenty of pockets for additional storage.

Due to its significant weight and size, this Coleman tent is best suited for situations where it doesn’t need to be carried over long distances, i.e. for car camping.

What Type of Wild Camping Tent Should I Buy?

The type of wild camping tent you should go with depends on several factors, including your preferences regarding comfort and weight, the conditions you expect to encounter, and the number of people camping. 

Wild camping tents can be classified into three main types:

Bivvy Bags and Tarps 

If you prefer to keep your pack weight as low as possible, i.e. if you’re a minimalist wild camper, a tarp or a bivvy bag can be an excellent choice. While not as protective or comfortable as regular tents, these can be pitched almost anywhere and are lightweight.

Geodesic and Semi-Geodesic Tents 

Extreme weather and harsh conditions are no match for these tents. They offer superb resistance and stability to high winds, which makes them ideal for wild camping in mountainous or exposed areas.

Tunnel Tents

The tunnel tents offer an excellent space-to-weight ratio and are relatively lightweight. Moreover, pitching a tent of this type is very easy. Having this option can be helpful in wild camping situations where the weather can change quickly. 

Wild Camping Tent Features

Several features should be considered when choosing a tent for wild camping. To assist you in making an informed choice, I’ve outlined some key considerations: 

Tent Size

Your tent size will depend on the equipment you need to store and the number of people who will be wild camping. As weight and size are often priorities for wild campers, most tents are designed for one or two people. For families or groups, larger tents are available. 

Tent Weight

Since tents are often carried in backpacks for long distances, weight is an important consideration when wild camping. Generally, a one-person model shouldn’t weigh more than 2 kg. On the other hand, a two-person tent shouldn’t weigh more than 3 kg, and a three-person tent should weigh less than 4.5 kg.

Easy Pitching

With dwindling light or in poor weather, you may need to pitch your tent as quickly as possible, so ease of pitching is also essential. There is generally less effort involved in pitching freestanding tents than in non-freestanding tents.

Tent Space

Keeping your tent as light as possible is essential, but you must also ensure enough room for yourself and all your equipment. Invest in a wild camping tent with a vestibule or a storage area to store your equipment away from the elements.

Weather and Wind Resistance

Camping in the wild often exposes you to the elements, so you need a tent capable of handling everything. Look for a tent with a sturdy rainfly to keep you dry in a downpour and a durable pole structure capable of withstanding strong winds. 

Cooking

For safety reasons, most wild campers prefer to cook outside their tents. However, having a tent with a vestibule area can be beneficial – this will allow you to prepare your favourite meals even in poor weather. But don’t ever cook inside your tent.

Tent Waterproofing

Wild camping tents must be water-resistant. The tent’s hydrostatic head rating measures water resistance – the higher, the better. Highly waterproof tents have a rating of 3000mm or higher.

Condensation

Condensation will occur in all tents, but a good design can minimise it. Look for tents with double-wall construction and plenty of mesh panels for ventilation – these can assist in managing condensation. 

Aesthetics

Your tent’s appearance may also influence your decision, even if it is not as important as other factors. Many wild campers prefer colours that blend in with the natural surroundings – after all, these can be of great help when you want to stay hidden.

Is Wild Camping Legal in the UK?

As a result of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, wild camping is generally allowed in Scotland. Wild camping is illegal in the rest of the UK.

Nevertheless, most people pay no heed to wild camping when it’s done in higher fell areas, provided campers stay for only one night and follow the “Leave No Trace” principles. 

Conclusion 

So, which one of these models is the best option for a wild camper? While I consider Vango Nevis 100 to be a genuinely fantastic tent and a product whose purchase you certainly won’t regret, I must give the gold medal to Snugpak Ionosphere. 

This model features a hydrostatic head rating of 5000mm – which guarantees unmatched weather resistance – and it’s also lightweight, compact, and easy to pitch (and pack). Moreover, its low profile ensures outstanding durability and resilience, and these qualities can certainly come in handy when camping on rugged terrain in harsh weather conditions. 

Overall, it’s the best wild camping tent out there and an excellent choice for anyone interested in this activity, regardless of their experience.