Big Agnes Backpacking Tents Review (Updated | Jan 15th)
If you’ve ever wrestled with cramped canvas on a night under the stars, you know the value of space and reliability. Big Agnes backpacks a lineup of roomy, lightweight tents that promise both comfort and durability, whether you’re tackling a weekend trek or a multi‑day adventure. In this guide we’ll break down the top models, compare key features, and help you pick the perfect shelter that feels like home, even when you’re miles away for your next expedition and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Big Agnes backpacking tents offer ultra-light designs without sacrificing durability.
- The Editor’s Choice excels with integrated mtnGLO lighting and easy pole setup.
- Spacious vestibule awnings provide excellent gear storage in compact shelters.
- Choose based on weight, seasonality, and interior space for your trips.
- Double ripstop fabric ensures long-term resilience in rugged backcountry conditions.

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent
Illuminated Living
- Ultra-light yet sturdy
- Integrated mtnGLO lighting
- Spacious vestibule awnings
- BEST FOR ILLUMINATED LIVING: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SMART STORAGE DESIGN: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SPACIOUS FAMILY SHELTER: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HYPERBEAD PERFORMANCE: Big Agnes Copper Spur UL – Backpacking Tent For Camping Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BIKEPACK COMPACT POWER: Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL Bikepack – Bikepack Solution Dye-Packing Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR TRIPLE DOOR FLEX: Big Agnes Salt Creek SL Backpacking Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EXTENDED VESTIBULE COMFORT: Big Agnes Blacktail & Blacktail Hotel Tent – Backpacking Tent for Camping Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BIKEPACK STRENGTH: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Ultralight Bikepacking Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR VERSATILE CAMP COMPANION: Big Agnes Blacktail & Blacktail Hotel Backpacking & Camping Tent Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ULTRA-LIGHT HYPERBEAD: Big Agnes Fly Creek UL – Backpacking Tent For Camping Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Big Agnes Backpacking Tents
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent, mtnGLO, 3 Person

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL in mtnGLO is a three‑person ultralight backpacking tent designed for serious hikers who still want comfort. Its double‑ripstop nylon skin keeps weight down while resisting tears, and the pre‑bent span pole paired with a 4‑way high‑volume hub creates a roomy interior.
Integrated mtnGLO LED lights illuminate the cabin at the push of a button, eliminating the need for separate lanterns. Two large vestibules can be opened as awnings, expanding living space for gear or a camp kitchen.
The hub also improves stability in wind and rain.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-light yet sturdy
- Integrated mtnGLO lighting
- Spacious vestibule awnings
- Easy pole setup
- Durable double ripstop
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Heavier than solo tents
- Limited color options
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Olive Green, 2 Person

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL in olive green offers a two‑person, fully‑featured shelter that balances weight and durability. Advanced double‑reinforced ripstop nylon provides excellent tear resistance while staying feather‑light.
A new awning‑style vestibule expands covered space and shields you from drizzle or sun, and the TipLok buckle simplifies pole‑to‑fabric attachment, tensioning, and guy‑line setup in one motion. Inside, a 3D mezzanine foot compartment, oversized ceiling pocket, and dedicated media pockets keep gear organized and off the floor.
Included DAC aluminum J‑stakes and awning guy lines further enhance stability in harsh conditions.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Compact two-person design
- Award-winning comfort
- Innovative TipLok buckle
- Ample internal storage
- Robust ultra-light fabric
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No built-in lighting
- Awning adds setup time
- Limited interior height
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL – Ultralight Backpacking Tent, Olive Green, 4 Person

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL 4‑person tent has been fully redesigned for ultralight adventurers who still crave comfort. Its proprietary double‑rip‑stop nylon offers exceptional tear resistance while staying feather‑light, and the pre‑bent poles with a 4‑way hub create a stable, high‑volume interior.
New awning‑style vestibules expand covered living space, protecting you from drizzle or sun, and the innovative TipLok buckles simplify pole, rainfly, and stake connections. Thoughtful storage includes a 3‑D mezzanine foot pocket, an oversized ceiling pocket, and media loops for earbuds.
All hardware is ultra‑light aluminum, making setup quick and reliable on the trail.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Spacious vestibules
- Innovative storage pockets
- Easy pole setup
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Complex packing instructions
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL – Backpacking Tent For Camping, 3 Season, Ultralight, Waterproof, Anodized Poles, Lichen Green, 2 Person

The Big Agnes Copper Spur UL tent brings cutting‑edge HyperBead fabric to backpackers seeking waterproof protection without added weight. Solution‑dyed nylon ripstop paired with breathable polyester mesh repels rain while allowing moisture to escape, ideal for three‑season use.
Its high‑volume, freestanding architecture creates generous interior space, and awning‑style doors with dual vestibules keep gear dry. The TipLok buckles and cross‑pole sockets streamline assembly, while strategic vents let you fine‑tune airflow.
Inside, multiple pockets—including a Quick Stash door keeper and EZ Pack Stuff Sack—provide off‑floor storage, and DAC green‑anodized poles ensure lasting strength.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- HyperBead waterproof fabric
- Freestanding high-volume design
- Quick setup system
- Ample interior pockets
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited color options
- No built-in footprint
Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL Bikepack – Bikepack Solution Dye-Packing Tent, 1 Person (Yellow/Greige)

The Fly Creek HV UL Bikepack is a single‑person, ultra‑light tent designed for cyclists who want a hassle‑free overnight setup. Made with Big Agnes’ Solution Dye fabric, it resists UV fade while cutting manufacturing waste.
Its unique TipLok buckle merges pole capture, rainfly attachment, and tensioning into one simple motion, letting you pitch the tent in minutes, even from the bike. Steep DAC angle hub walls maximize interior space, and the 12‑inch Shortstik poles keep the pack compact on handlebars.
Inside, you’ll find a 3‑D shelf, ceiling pocket, and media cord routing, while exterior daisy‑chain loops secure gear on the fly.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-light weight
- Quick single-handed setup
- Spacious interior layout
- Durable solution-dye fabric
- Integrated gear loops
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited interior height
- No built-in footprint
- Higher price point
Big Agnes Salt Creek SL Backpacking Tent, 2 Person

Big Agnes’ Salt Creek SL is a two‑person backpacking tent that redefines convenience with three doors: two side entries with vestibules and a head‑entry awning that doubles as a stargazing portal. Over‑vertical walls create generous shoulder and headroom, while 3‑D bin pockets turn dead space above the feet into useful storage.
The DAC Pressfit pole system with a four‑way hub offers a sturdy, lightweight frame that pops up quickly. One vented fly improves airflow and reduces condensation, and reflective guy lines make night‑time visibility easy.
At 3 lb 11 oz, it packs down to a compact size for long treks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Three convenient doors
- Ample headroom space
- Smart storage pockets
- Easy pole system
- Ventilation-friendly design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than solo tents
- Larger packed size
- Awning door may snag
Big Agnes Blacktail & Blacktail Hotel Tent – Backpacking Tent for Camping, 3 Season, Ultralight, Waterproof, Warm Olive/Chinois Green, 2 Person

Big Agnes’ Blacktail and Blacktail Hotel tents blend ultralight portability with rugged durability, making them ideal for both weekend getaways and extended backpack trips. Available in 2‑, 3‑, and 4‑person layouts, each model features two doors with smooth‑closing zippers and versatile vestibule options—standard models have dual vestibules, while the Hotel version adds an extended pole‑supported vestibule for extra gear or pet space.
Symmetrical, pre‑bent poles create generous headroom, and PFAS‑free waterproof fabric with TipLok Buckles ensures quick, secure setup. Integrated vents, reflective guylines, and interior pockets round out a thoughtful, all‑in‑one camping solution.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Light enough for thru‑hiking
- Two doors for easy access
- Extended vestibule adds gear space
- Durable PFAS‑free waterproof fabric
- Built‑in storage pockets
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than minimalist shelters
- Higher price point
- Setup can be tricky in wind
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Ultralight Bikepacking Tent

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 is a purpose‑built bike‑packing tent that delivers ultralight strength without sacrificing interior volume. Its 4‑way hub poles provide 25 % more structural rigidity and 20 % larger living space compared to older models, while the double rip‑stop nylon fabric resists tears and punctures.
Two doors and vestibules, plus a dedicated helmet‑storage webbing, keep gear organized on the trail. The innovative TipLok Buckle combines pole capture, rainfly attachment, and tensioning in one sleek component, and the compact 13.5 × 7 in.
stuff sack fits easily on handlebars or panniers. Ideal for single‑track adventures where weight and durability matter.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra‑light yet strong
- Large interior for three
- Helmet‑storage webbing included
- Quick, single‑handed setup
- Compact compression sack
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited vestibule space
- No built‑in footprint
- Slightly higher cost
Big Agnes Blacktail & Blacktail Hotel Backpacking & Camping Tent, Green/Gray, 3 Person Hotel

The Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel is a versatile three‑person tent that balances lightweight backcountry performance with the durability needed for car camping. Its symmetrical pole system and pre‑bent poles give generous headroom, while two dual‑zipper doors and a large side‑entry vestibule provide easy access for gear or a dog.
Integrated fly vents and low‑vent options keep condensation low, and storm flaps protect against rain. The tent comes ready‑to‑pitch with pre‑cut guy lines, reflective webbing, and waterproof taped seams.
At 6 lb 5 oz and a compact 22 × 7 in packed size, it’s both roomy and portable.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight for three
- Spacious vestibule
- Dual‑zipper doors
- Easy pre‑setup
- Reflective night visibility
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than solo tents
- Higher price point
Big Agnes Fly Creek UL – Backpacking Tent For Camping, 3 Season, Ultralight, Waterproof, 1 Person

The Big Agnes Fly Creek UL is an ultralight, single‑person tent designed for three‑season backpacking. Its HyperBead fabric is 6 % lighter, 25 % more waterproof, and 65 % stronger than traditional materials, delivering robust protection without extra weight.
High‑volume DAC poles create vertical walls, maximizing interior space, while a dry‑entry vestibule offers convenient gear storage. The TipLok buckle system combines pole capture, fly attachment, and staking into one intuitive step, and color‑coded components speed setup.
Packing down to 18 × 5 in and weighing just under 2 lb, the tent remains waterproof and backed by a lifetime warranty.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra‑light weight
- Highly waterproof fabric
- Spacious interior
- Intuitive TipLok setup
- Lifetime warranty
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to one person
- Small vestibule size
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What size should I choose for a big Agnes backpacking tent?
Select a tent based on the number of occupants and the gear you plan to store inside. For two people, a 2-person model with a vestibule of at least 2 square meters provides enough space for backpacks. If you often camp with a third person or need extra room for gear, consider a 3- or 4-person option with a larger floor area and additional vestibules.
How do the Big Agnes Copper Spur vs. Tiger Wall series compare?
The Copper Spur line focuses on lightweight, freestanding designs with dual doors and excellent ventilation, making it ideal for solo or couple hikers. The Tiger Wall series offers a semi-freestanding structure with a single pole system, providing a lower weight and a more compact pack size, but it requires more staking for stability. Choose Copper Spur for ease of setup and extra interior space, or Tiger Wall if minimizing weight is your top priority.
What key features should I look for in a backpacking tent?
Prioritize weather resistance, including a high waterproof rating (minimum 1500mm for rain and 3000mm for snow) and robust pole construction. Look for breathable fabrics and mesh panels to reduce condensation, as well as multiple doors and vestibules for convenient gear access. Additional features like interior pockets, gear lofts, and color-coded pole sleeves can enhance organization and ease of setup.
Is a freestanding tent worth the extra cost?
Freestanding tents are generally more expensive, but they offer faster, hassle‑free setup because the poles hold the structure without extensive staking. This convenience is valuable on uneven terrain or when you need to move the tent frequently. If you camp on flat, well‑anchored sites and want to save weight and money, a non‑freestanding model can be a practical alternative.
How does price relate to durability and performance?
Higher‑priced Big Agnes tents typically use stronger, lighter materials such as Dyneema or ripstop nylon, which improve durability and reduce weight. They also often feature reinforced seams, better pole systems, and advanced ventilation designs that enhance overall performance in harsh conditions. However, mid‑range models still provide solid weather protection and reliable construction for most backpacking scenarios.
What is the best way to maintain and store my tent after a trip?
Clean the tent by shaking out debris, then gently wash with a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly to remove residue that can attract mold. Allow the fabric to dry completely before folding to prevent mildew, and store it loosely in a breathable sack rather than a compression bag to preserve the fabric’s loft. Regularly inspect seams and poles for wear and repair any small tears with a patch kit to extend the tent’s lifespan.
Can I use a Big Agnes tent in all seasons?
Big Agnes offers season-specific models; a 3‑season tent is suitable for spring, summer, and fall, providing adequate ventilation and rain protection. For winter or high‑altitude trips, choose a 4‑season or expedition‑grade tent with stronger pole structures, higher waterproof ratings, and reduced mesh to keep out snow and wind. Using a 3‑season tent in severe winter conditions can compromise safety and comfort.
