Tent Size 1
Tent Type Backpacking, Double-wall, Ultralight, Solo
Seasons 3-season
Weight 27.5 lbs
Inside Height 3' 3"
Floor Area 20 sq ft
Setup Time 4 mins
OVERALL SCORE
7.5/10
Our Take
The MSR FreeLite 1 is a top pick because it’s an ultralight, double-wall tent that doesn't force you to sacrifice comfort for a lower base weight.
I love how the semi-freestanding design and unified pole system make it incredibly easy to pitch quickly after a long day on the trail.
Its rectangular floor plan and large side-entry door provide a surprisingly roomy interior and excellent accessibility for solo backpackers.
How We Rated It
Space & Comfort
Quality & Durability
Weather Resistance
Value for Money
Ease of Use
Intangibles
User Reviews
Pros & Cons
PROS
- ✓Ultralight weight saves your back
- ✓Quick semi-freestanding setup saves time
- ✓Spacious interior allows sitting upright
CONS
- ✕Semi-freestanding design requires staking out
- ✕Low 1200mm waterproof rating concerns
BEST FOR Ultralight solo three-season backpacking adventures.
How It Compares
| Tent | Score | Est. Price | Weight | Sleeps | Seasons | Floor Area | Vestibule | Doors | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() MSR MSR FreeLite 1 Tent This tent | ★ 7.5 | $200 | 27.5 lbs | 1 people | 3-season | 20 sq ft | 8 sq ft | 1 | ✓ Current |
![]() ZPacks ZPacks Duplex Tent | ★ 7.5 | $699 | 1.13 lbs | 1 people | 3-season | 28 sq ft | 0 sq ft | 4 | vs → |
![]() REI Co-op REI Co-op Flash Air 2 Tent | ★ 7.6 | $429 | 2 lbs. 8 oz. | 1 people | 3-season | 29 sq ft | 17 sq ft | 2 | vs → |
![]() REI Co-op REI Co-op Flash Air 1 Tent | ★ 8.1 | $329 | 1 lb 6 oz | 1 people | 3-season | 21 sq ft | 8 sq ft | 1 | vs → |
![]() Big Agnes Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Tent | ★ 8.1 | $600 | 3 lbs | 1 people | 3-season | 29 sq ft | 9 sq ft | 2 | vs → |
![]() Big Agnes Big Agnes String Ridge VST 1.5 Tent | ★ 8.1 | $550 | 1.2 lbs | 1 people | 4-season | 22 sq ft | 9 sq ft | 1 | vs → |
Full Specifications
| Tent Type | Backpacking, Double-wall, Ultralight, Solo |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 3-season |
| Sleeps | 1 people |
| Weight | 27.5 lbs |
| Floor Area | 20 sq ft |
| Vestibule Area | 8 sq. ft. |
| Peak Height | 3' 3" |
| Floor Dimensions | 87 x 33 in |
| Doors | 1 |
| Setup Time | 4 mins |
| Pole Material | DAC NFL Aluminum |
| Poles | 2 |
| Floor Fabric | 15D ripstop nylon |
| Rainfly Fabric | 15D ripstop nylon 1200mm polyether urethane and silicone |
| Footprint Included | No |
| Made In | Imported |
| Warranty | Limited |
| Additional Notes | Large side-entry vestibule, Tech-friendly pockets with cable ports, Overhead gear lofts, Durable no-curve zippers, StayDry rain gutter |
| Price | $200 |
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