The Two Person Tent That Fits Two Real People

Most two person tents fit two people only if they are both backpackers on a diet and best friends. Real pairs need room for pads, packs, and a little personal space.

Measure before you believe the label.

• Check the floor width against two actual sleeping pads
• Look for a tent with two doors so nobody crawls over
• Count the vestibule space for two packs and wet gear
• Add headroom if either of you sits up to change

A true two person tent saves a friendship as much as it saves weight. Tight quarters are funny for one night and misery by night five.

If you share a tent often, buy the two person even when you mostly solo it. The extra room is cheap insurance for the nights you are not alone.