Kelty
TN 2
Best lightweight shelter for backpackers who enjoy viewing the night sky.
Designed for those who prioritize space and efficiency, this shelter features a unique pole system that allows it to pack down into a compact, rectangular cube. The innovative fly design offers an unobstructed view of the night sky while remaining fully deployable from inside the sleeping bag, ensuring protection during sudden weather changes. With a focus on weight reduction and ease of packing, this shelter provides a reliable, comfortable space for two people without adding unnecessary bulk to a pack. It balances technical performance with user-friendly features for three-season adventures.
$249.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.4
/ 5
Category Rank
1294
/ 2284
#1294 in Tents
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Sleeping Capacity
2
/ people
Who it's for
- Campers who enjoy watching the stars from their sleeping bag
- Bikepackers and hikers with limited storage space
- Backpackers seeking a comfortable living space during rain delays
Who should skip it
- Ounces-counting thru-hikers prioritizing the lightest possible gear
- Pairs who prefer independent entry and exit points
- Gear-heavy campers needing extensive external storage protected from rain
Performance breakdown
Packability
The unique cube-shaped compression system makes stowing this tent incredibly efficient.
Weather Versatility
Deploying the fly from inside the sleeping bag is a game-changer.
Ventilation
Extensive mesh body ensures excellent airflow during warm, humid nights.
Living Space
Adequate floor area for two, though the peak height feels standard.
Weight Efficiency
Solid weight for the features, though ultralight hikers might want less.
Stargazing Capability
The innovative fly design offers an unmatched view of the night sky.
Key Specs
Sleeping Capacity
2 people
Season Rating
3-season
Floor Area
27.5 square feet
Peak Height
42 inches
Packed Weight
4.56 pounds
Packed Length
23 inches
Number of Vestibules
2
Tent Body Material
No See-Um Mesh
Know before you buy
Yes. The TN 2 features a unique design that allows you to attach and deploy the rainfly from inside the tent, which is particularly helpful if a storm rolls in unexpectedly during the night.
The tent uses a specialized pole system that breaks down into a rectangular shape rather than the traditional long, awkward bundle. This makes it significantly easier to pack into a backpack or strap to the outside without it snagging on branches.
With a peak height of 42 inches and 27.5 square feet of floor space, the TN 2 offers a comfortable amount of room for two people. However, if you are exceptionally tall, you may find the interior space cozy, so consider your sleeping pad thickness when evaluating the headroom.
Absolutely. While the fly is designed to roll back for views of the night sky, it is fully functional as a standard rainfly. It is made from 40D Sil Nylon, which provides reliable coverage against wind and rain when fully deployed.
Yes, having two separate vestibules is a major advantage for a two-person tent. It allows each person to have their own dedicated storage space for packs and boots, keeping the interior of the tent uncluttered.
The TN 2 is built for three-season use with a 70D nylon floor and 40D sil nylon fly, which strikes a solid balance between weight savings and durability. It is well-suited for standard backpacking trips, though you should always use a footprint to protect the floor from sharp rocks or debris.
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$250