Cabela’s Orion 2-Person Backpacking Tent

Field Notes: While Active Junky testers used this tent for car camping, the Orion 2-person is rated as backpacking tent. As with most tents of this size, it was easy for one person to set up with its standard two-pole system so we could hit the road and hit the trail quicker.

Pros: The cost of this Cabela's tent maybe a deciding factor for those on a budget. It is made of the same materials as more expensive tents, and provides similar volume and floor space. 

Cons: With a tent this small, we like to see doors and vestibules on both sides, otherwise the camper in the back has to crawl over the one near the door. That was our experience. The vestibule itself was also smaller than other two-person tents we reviewed.

Favorite Feature: The price tag, though not an official feature. Its comparable design and material with a bit more weight but at a much lower cost make this a great value.

Tester Quote: “This was a cinch to set up. A single tester took only a few minutes to pitch the tent, which was great so we could go play but still have shelter ready for us when the storm clouds in the distance reached our site. It’s an affordable tent, but that meant sacrificing some nice features like dual doors.”

Key Attribute: Intuitiveness 

Bottom Line: If you’re on a budget and looking for a tent that has all the basic features of a backpacking tent, this is a good starting point.

Best For: A first-time backpacking tent that you’ll likely replace after a season or two