If you’re digging through ultralight tent options that won’t crush your wallet, the Naturehike Mongar and Cloud Up 2 are two ruggedly reliable, compact, and budget-friendly choices. Both tents are lightweight, impressively functional, and built for comfort, but they’re not quite the same, especially in how they handle different camping conditions. I’ve dived into the in-depth, nitty-gritty details, tested and researched these two popular tents, and read real-world feedback from adventurous users. Here’s the breakdown on which tent is better for your next wild, off-grid escapade.
Weight and Portability: The Fight to Keep Things Featherweight
One of the biggest make-or-break factors in any ultralight, trail-ready tent is weight. If you’re like me, you know that every tiny ounce can count when you’re hiking. Those “small” grams add up fast, especially when trudging through steep, rugged terrain.
Cloud Up 2: The Ultralight, Bare-Bones Champion
The Cloud Up 2 stands out as the ultra-streamlined, featherweight choice here, weighing only about 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs). This impressively light, compact weight is perfect for minimalist hikers or anyone craving a super-light, non-fussy load. Cutting out those extra ounces can make a massive difference over multi-day treks. The Cloud Up 2’s lean, no-nonsense weight design keeps your pack manageable, even for the long haul.
Mongar: Slightly Heavier but Exceptionally Spacious
In contrast, the Mongar weighs a little more at 2 kg (4.4 lbs). Now, while that doesn’t seem like a huge difference, the added space and sturdy features on the Mongar might make this small weight trade-off worth it. It’s got a broader, more open floor plan and added room for your gear, so it feels like a true, spacious basecamp. This tent is ideal if you’re splitting weight with a buddy or don’t mind a little more bulk for extra comfort.
Bottom Line: For serious, ultralight hikers who need a super-lightweight tent without extra frills, the Cloud Up 2 is a great choice. If you don’t mind a smidge more weight in exchange for extra room, the Mongar is the way to go.
Material and Weather Resistance: Staying Dry in Unforgiving Conditions
One of the worst camping nightmares is waking up in a drenched, damp, waterlogged tent. Knowing the level of weatherproofing in your tent can save your trip from disaster when Mother Nature gets moody.
Mongar: Built for Reliable, Tough-Weather Resilience
The Mongar is designed with strong, weather-resistant 20D ripstop nylon and an ultra-high 4000 mm waterproof rating on the rainfly. That’s no small protection—it means you can feel confident in serious downpours. Those high-strength, lightweight aluminum poles keep the tent stable in windy, rough conditions, making the Mongar a great choice for unpredictable environments.
Cloud Up 2: Lightweight and Rain-Resistant, But Limited
The Cloud Up 2 uses durable 210T polyester with a 3000 mm waterproof rating. While this is enough for most three-season camping, it’s not quite as rugged as the Mongar in heavy, unrelenting rain. For moderate weather, it’s solid, but if you’re anticipating a continuous storm, it may not be quite as robust.
Bottom Line: For unpredictable, rainy, high-altitude trips, the Mongar offers better, high-endurance waterproofing. The Cloud Up 2 works for fair-weather outings but could fall short in serious storms.
Setup and Design: Simple vs. Ultra-Stable
When the wind is howling, or a rainstorm’s on its way, how quickly you can set up a tent really matters. Both these tents are built for simplicity, but each has its own quirks in terms of structure and stability.
Cloud Up 2: Speedy, Solo-Friendly Setup
The Cloud Up 2 has a quick, simplified single-pole, semi-freestanding design. What does that mean? It’s straightforward, efficient, and can be pitched solo in under 5–7 minutes—a lifesaver when you’re racing against bad weather. The downside is that since it’s semi-freestanding, you might need extra stakes to keep it stable, especially in wind.
Mongar: Slightly Longer Setup, Rock-Solid Stability
On the other hand, the Mongar features a more secure double-wall, freestanding setup. While it takes a few extra minutes (around 10) to set up due to its two-pole structure, this added stability makes it feel more resilient in rougher weather. The double-wall design also improves ventilation, keeping condensation at bay and making it more comfortable in humid climates.
Bottom Line: If you need a super-fast, ultra-convenient setup, the Cloud Up 2 wins. For those prioritizing stability and ventilation, the Mongar offers a superior, balanced setup.
Space and Comfort: How Much Room Do You Really Need?
A tent can feel like a cramped, restrictive cave, or it can be a comfortable shelter with room to breathe. Let’s see how these two measure up in terms of interior space.
Mongar: More Spacious with Dual-Entry Convenience
The Mongar really shines here, offering an extra-spacious, high-ceiling interior with a smart, dual-door design. With two entryways, it’s incredibly convenient, especially if you’re camping with a partner. You won’t have to climb over each other to get in or out. Plus, the larger floor area and higher ceiling give it an airy, open feel—perfect for those who like to keep gear inside and still move around comfortably.
Cloud Up 2: Compact but Cozy
The Cloud Up 2 is more streamlined, and while it can technically fit two people, it’s definitely on the snug side. It has a single entry, so you’ll have to coordinate with a tent-mate to avoid some awkward exits. For solo campers or couples who don’t mind a bit of close-quarters camping, it’s cozy and efficient.
Bottom Line: If you crave more personal space and dual-door access, the Mongar has the edge. For ultralight solo camping or minimalist setups, the Cloud Up 2 provides just enough room without the bulk.
Value for Money: Which Tent Offers More Bang for Your Buck?
Both of these tents fall into the budget-friendly ultralight category, but each offers a slightly different kind of value.
Mongar: Higher Cost, But Greater Versatility
The Mongar usually runs a bit more expensive than the Cloud Up 2, but it’s worth every extra penny if you’re looking for added durability, spaciousness, and flexibility. This tent is ready for longer trips, variable climates, and multi-season camping.
Cloud Up 2: Lean and Affordable, Best for Fair Weather
The Cloud Up 2 is generally the more affordable option, offering fantastic value if you mostly camp in stable, mild weather. It’s lightweight and easy to set up without sacrificing too much on the essentials, which makes it ideal for budget-conscious adventurers who don’t need high-end features.
Bottom Line: If you’re on a tight budget and mainly camp in fair weather, the Cloud Up 2 is a solid choice. For those who need a tent that can handle different conditions and has a longer lifespan, the Mongar is worth the investment.
Pros and Cons: Side-by-Side Breakdown
Here’s a quick look at the standout pros and cons of each tent to help you decide.
Naturehike Mongar
Pros:
- Generously spacious, open-feeling interior with dual doors for easy access
- High-quality, long-lasting, 20D ripstop nylon with a high 4000 mm waterproof rating
- Double-wall, freestanding design is great for tough weather and minimizes condensation
- Stable and sturdy even in windier, harsher conditions
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than Cloud Up 2 at 2 kg (4.4 lbs)
- Takes a bit longer to set up due to dual poles
Cloud Up 2
Pros:
- Ultralight at just 1.7 kg (3.7 lbs), ideal for minimalist packers
- More budget-friendly than the Mongar
- Quick and solo-friendly, semi-freestanding setup
- Compact and portable design, great for shorter trips and fair-weather adventures
Cons:
- Less durable in harsh, prolonged conditions
- Single door, which can feel cramped for two campers
- Smaller interior, with limited space for two people
Real-World Performance and Feedback: What Users Really Think
User feedback highlights some practical insights that specs alone don’t always show:
- Weight Savings: Hikers choosing the Cloud Up 2 love its low weight, especially on long-distance hikes where every ounce counts. The Mongar, while only slightly heavier, does feel a bit bulkier in comparison.
- Weather Protection: Campers tackling wet, rainy climates gravitate toward the Mongar for its higher waterproof rating and double-wall design. Those with the Cloud Up 2 find it works well in moderate conditions but sometimes leaks in continuous downpours.
- Setup Speed: The Cloud Up 2 is the clear winner here, with most campers reporting they can pitch it in 5–7 minutes. The Mongar setup takes closer to 10–12 minutes but provides a more solid setup in return.
- Durability Over Time: Frequent adventurers report the Mongar holds up better after repeated use in rough conditions, while the Cloud Up 2 shows wear faster under heavy, high-altitude use.
My Final Verdict: Which Tent is Right for You?
After comparing every small detail, here’s my personal take:
- Choose the Mongar if you want reliable durability, added space, and don’t mind carrying a bit more weight for better versatility and comfort. It’s ideal for extended trips, unpredictable weather, or if you want more breathing room in the tent. The Mongar’s an investment that’ll last longer and can handle tougher conditions.
- Choose the Cloud Up 2 if you’re after a simple, ultralight setup that’s perfect for fair-weather camping or shorter hikes. If you’re on a budget, or simply prefer a lean, fast-and-light approach, the Cloud Up 2 offers excellent value without unnecessary extras.
Ultimately, the right tent depends on your specific needs, whether it’s featherweight portability, spacious comfort, or rugged versatility. With either the Mongar or Cloud Up 2, you’re getting solid, affordable shelter that’ll support your outdoor journeys. Happy camping!
