World's lightest tent lightens load for backcountry campers

Ready to hit the backcountry this season but need a light tent to carry? On May 18, outdoor gear company Terra Nova announced that their Laser Ultra 1 one-person tent just won the Guinness World Record for lightest tent ever.

Weighing in at 21 ounces (600 grams), the new tent, made with a silver translucent fiber, won the title over the company’s own Laser Photo, which weighed in at 7 ounces (200 grams) more. The tent is designed for serious backcountry campers or ultra event participants, where every gram you haul in your backpack counts.

Last year, the Laser Ultra 1 tent won a Gold European IF Design Award at the Outdoor Show in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Available internationally, the tent retails at £650 pounds (around €738).

Another top-line one-person tent option is the Obi Elite 1P, from Nemo, which weighs in at 900 grams. Nemo claims its tent to be the lightest poled tent on the market, and it’s priced at $399.95.

Other ways to lighten your load when backcountry camping? Consider using a tarp instead of your tent, and choose a simple backpack—all that extra padding, pockets, and zippers can weigh you down, according to experts. Also scrutinize your gear and clothing, make cuts where you can (do you need a clean T-shirt every day?) but always keep your own safety in mind.

Learn more:

http://www.terra-nova.co.uk

http://www.nemoequipment.com/

Want to know more about backcountry camping? Get expert tips here:

http://www.backpackinglight.com
http://www.backpacking.net
http://www.lightweightbackpacking101.com/
http://www.sectionhiker.com