Best backpacking & camping crossover tent under $250

Averaging at least 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews wherever its sold online, the Marmot Tungsten 2P is clearly a user-favorite among small 2 person tents. There’s nothing fancy or innovative going on, it’s just a classic design done really well. Shop now.

• Price: $249
• Weight: 5 lbs, 0 oz
• Material: 68d-70d Polyester Taffeta PU Coated
• Interior: 30.1 ft² | Vestibule: 16.1 ft² | Area/Pound: 9.25 ft²
• Peak Height: 42″
• Pros: Freestanding. Durable. Sturdy. Complimentary footprint. Reliable. User-friendly.
• Cons: Heavy (for backpacking).

Features

The Tungsten utilizes a simple aluminum cross pole design with a ceiling spreader. This frame is sturdy, simple, and reliable. Its 68D PU-coated polyester taffeta fly and floor is very durable, and waterproof. There are storage pockets on the interior.

At just over 30 sq ft, the size is a bit above average, and at just over 42″ peak height, it’s just a bit taller than average. But the fact that you’re getting a highly rated, slightly above average sized tent at a below average price is what makes the Marmot Tungsten 2P Tent so appealing.

In researching budget tents, we found a number of models from down market brands like ALPS Mountaineering, Kelty, and Mountainsmith that design tents with slightly superior stats for less money. However, they seem unreliable/too good to be true, and often had few to no reviews or were difficult to purchase.

We prefer the trustworthiness and storied history of the Marmot Tungsten when it comes to sleeping in the front or backcountry.

Lastly, we have to talk about the weight. At five pounds minimum trail weight, it’s as heavy as we’re willing to consider for backcountry tents. But we have high standards, and in the grand scheme of things, 5 lbs is only a bit above average when you take into consideration the entire marketplace of tents for backpacking.

Verdict

This one feels like an obvious choice for best crossover, and it is an exemplary among small 2 person tents for $250 or less. The Marmot Tungsten is beloved by users and solid in terms of performance, which makes for a great value, long lasting shelter.

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Read about more great tents in our complete guides to the best tents for backpacking, and the best small 2 person crossover tents.