A Guide to Backpacking Shelters

When I first started camping I bought a 2 person tent.
That's it. End of story.
I didn't realize that there was a myriad of ways to create shelter when sleeping outside, or that camping more than a few steps away from your car was a thing people did. Since I've started backpacking, I've tried various other methods of camping and found various pros and cons for them. I still see tents as my favorite shelter, as I simply love spreading out my gear and having some privacy in my little nest, but there are times when the environment is not conducive to a tent. I am also learning how to lighten my pack, including trying out lighter shelter options.
There are many factors that influence which shelter you choose when backpacking, including the environment you will be hiking in, the amount of weight you're willing to carry, and simple personal preference. In this guide, we'll explore the various types of shelters that backpackers commonly rely on as well as their pros and cons.
Tents

Tents are perhaps the most popular choice for backpackers due to their versatility and protection against the elements. They come in various designs, including freestanding, semi-freestanding, and non-freestanding, each with its own set of pros and cons. Tents offer privacy, weather resistance, and space. Traditional tents can be heavy, but there are also lightweight and compact tent designs for backpackers who prioritize lightening their load. I like to use a sturdy, double-walled tent for its protection against the elements (and bugs) as well as the ability to take off the outer wall and fall asleep with a view of the sky. If you will be using your shelter for more than just backpacking, a tent like this is a good investment for beginners.
It is a good idea to start with a two-person tent even if you are camping solo. I love having extra space to organize my gear or invite another person (or a dog) to join me without feeling too cramped. If you're starting out with two people it could get old, and you may want to invest in a larger tent.
Pros:
Perhaps the easiest for beginners to set up.
You can buy different types of tents to fit your needs and preferences.
Versatile. I've had the same tent for nearly 5 years and used it many situations, including camping with friends, on backpacking trips, as an emergency shelter, and taking it to Burning Man. If you get a good quality tent and take care of it, it can last years of use in varying environments.
Cons:
Need reasonably flat ground.
Can get heavy depending on the tent.
Hammocks

Hammock camping has gained popularity in recent years, as many people swear they are more comfortable than sleeping on the ground. For older backpackers or anyone with back issues, trying hammock camping may be a good idea. While hammocks themselves are light and easy to carry, using one for your sleeping setup is not necessarily easier or lighter than using a tent. A comfortable hammock setup requires multiple pieces including the hammock itself, straps, a tarp or rain fly, bug netting, and potentially an overquilt or underquilt depending on the temperature.Â
Pros:
Very comfortable if you set them up right - make sure your trees are far enough apart to avoid the dreaded banana body!
Great in areas that would be hard to set up a tent, such as rocky or root-filled ground.
Cons:
Like tents, cheaper hammocks can be pretty heavy.
You need thick enough trees to set up, which aren't always available.
Less privacy than you would have in a tent.
Can require several different components to get a good night's sleep.
Requires some skill to set up, but after some practice, you get used to it. The Ultimate Hang is a good resource for learning all about hammock camping, including how to set up your hammock.
Tarp Shelters

Simply using a tarp to make a shelter is a minimalist option favored by ultralight backpackers. A tarp shelter consists of a single sheet of waterproof fabric, similar to that of a tent, supported by trekking poles or trees. Many people use a ground cloth or second tarp under their sleeping pad to help with moisture, temperature, or to prevent sharp objects from popping an inflatable pad. When pitched correctly, tarp shelters offer good ventilation and panoramic views while still providing protection from the wind and rain. As shown by Mom Goes Camping, there are countless different ways to set up a tarp, and mastering various tarp configurations can enhance your shelter's versatility in different environments.
Pros:
Lightweight.
Can get good views and feel more at one with nature due to the lack of constricting walls.
Versatile: can be set up using trees, trekking poles, strong branches, or in other creative ways.
Cons:
Less privacy.
Less protection from bugs, raccoons or other critters.
Requires practice ahead of time. Imagine hiking 12 miles to get to your campsite, it's starting to rain and the sun is sinking quickly. You need a place to sleep immediately but you have no clue how to set up a tarp, while your friends are already getting settled in their shelters. Needless to say, you wouldn't be a very happy camper.
Bivy Sacks

A Bivy, short for bivouac sack, is a compact shelter designed to enclose a sleeping bag and pad. It is basically a waterproof bag that covers your sleeping system with a hoop to keep it off of your face. Bivy sacks are ideal for solo backpackers looking to minimize weight and bulk while maintaining protection from the elements. While you may wonder why you would ever want to use one, they excel in environments where it is challenging to find a suitable tent or hammock site and can serve as great emergency shelters in unexpected situations.
Pros:
Can be used together with a tarp to minimize drafts, add some warmth to your sleeping bag, or reduce backsplash in the rain
Can also be used on their own, as shown in MSR Gear's article The Art of The Bivy.
Excel in environments that make using other shelters difficult, like mountainous areas.
Cons:
The small space means you will not be able to store your gear inside.
The burrito shape can feel claustrophobic.
Summary
Choosing the right shelter is important for backpackers. It impacts your comfort while sleeping, the weight of your pack, and your interactions with the environment and other campers. Whether you prefer the spaciousness and versatility of a tent, the simplicity of a tarp, or the comfort of a hammock, there's a shelter option to suit every preference and environment. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each shelter type, you can make informed decisions that enhance your backpacking experience and allow you to embrace the wonders of the wilderness with confidence.
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