How to Choose the Best Tent for Motorcycle Camping

Choosing the right tent for motorcycle camping isn’t just about price—it’s about finding the balance between size, comfort, and how you ride. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a long-distance ADV rider, your tent should match your riding style, your luggage setup, and how often you plan to camp.

Below, we’ve broken down everything you need to consider when choosing a tent for moto camping—based on real-world experience, customer feedback, and the gear we stock at Moto Camp Nerd.

Start with Your Priorities

Before you look at any specific models, define what matters most to you:

• Do you need a small pack size to fit inside panniers?

• Will you camp often or just occasionally?

• Is quick setup important?

• Do you want room to bring your gear inside the tent?

• What's your budget?

Think of tents the way you think of bikes—small, midweight, or big adventure machines. There’s no “best” tent for everyone. The best tent is the one that fits your needs and riding style.

Freestanding vs Non-Freestanding

• Freestanding tents are easier to set up on any surface (rock, sand, or hard ground) but typically have more poles and pack a little larger.

• Non-freestanding tents or tarptents are lighter and more compact, but they require good ground conditions to stake out properly.

Double Wall Tents are the Standard

All the tents we carry are double-wall tents, which means they have an inner mesh body and an outer rainfly. These are better for ventilation and minimizing condensation—especially important when riding in humid or cool climates.

Tent Materials: Nylon vs Polyester

• Nylon

  • Stronger and lighter
    – Higher cost
    – Can sag when wet

• Polyester

  • More affordable

  • Higher water resistance
    – Heavier and bulkier

For the lightest setup, go nylon. For value-focused camping, polyester is a solid choice.

Tent Recommendations by Priority

Priority: Small Pack Size + Lightweight Gear

Group: Ultralight / Dual Sport Setup

These are best for riders who prioritize compact gear that fits easily in panniers or side bags.

Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2 Bikepack Tent

• 13” x 6” pack size, under 3 lbs

• Semi-freestanding

• Best for solo or minimalist 2-person setups

Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2/UL3 Bikepack Tent

• 13” x 7”, just over 3 lbs

• Dual doors + vestibules

• Compact with more room than the Fly Creek

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1/2/3 Bikepack Tent

• Freestanding, tons of features

• Still packs down small (13.5” x 7” / ~3.5 lbs)

• Best overall balance of weight, size, and usability

Priority: Balance of Pack Size + Affordability

Group: Midweight / Versatile Setup

Ideal for riders who want decent space without going ultralight, and don’t mind a slightly larger pack size.

Big Agnes Blacktail Hotel Bikepack Tent

• Large vestibule “garage” for storing gear

• 14.5” x 8.5”, just over 7 lbs

• Excellent for basecamp setups

Kelty Late Start 2P Tent

• Great entry-level tent

• 16” pole segments fit panniers

• 4.5 lbs, under $200

Alps Mountaineering Helix 2

• Nylon, under 4 lbs, dual door

• Compact poles and a good step up from budget tents

Priority: Standing Room + Comfort

Group: Large / Heavyweight Setup

If pack size doesn’t matter as much and you want maximum comfort at camp, these tents deliver big on interior space.

Big Agnes Wyoming Trail 2 Tent

• Sit upright in vestibule, great for rainy days

• 20.5” pack size, ~12 lbs

• Best for truck-supported trips or when you have external storage options

Redverz Moto Tent (external link)

• Room for you and your bike inside

• Massive interior, 21” pack size, 14 lbs

• Ideal for riders who want a garage-style tent

Other Tent Options to Consider

• Pyramid/Tipi Tents: Single center pole and minimal material. Some can be paired with inner mesh tents for bug protection.

• Tarp Shelters + Groundsheets: Ultralight but require good weather and smart setup.

• Backpacking-Style Dome Tents: Available from almost every brand; just watch pole segment length.

Final Tips from the Trail

• Shorter pole segments (13"–16") are ideal for pannier setups

• A 2-person tent is a great all-around option for solo riders who want space

• Always practice setting up your tent before your first trip

• Consider storage space for helmet, boots, and riding gear when choosing size

Need Help Choosing?

We're moto campers ourselves. If you’re not sure what tent fits your bike or riding style, send us a message or stop by the shop. We'll help you find the right shelter so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

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