Alpkit Aeronaut 1 Tent Review: The Inflatable Shelter Built for Bikepacking

Alpkit Aeronaut 1 Tent
Alpkit Aeronaut 1 Tent

The Alpkit Aeronaut 1 is a one-person, three-season inflatable tent designed specifically for bikepacking, kayaking, and minimalist backpacking. By replacing traditional alloy poles with a single inflatable air beam, Alpkit has created a shelter that packs smaller, pitches faster, and fits into awkward spaces like bar bags and seatpacks.

But does this innovation come at the cost of comfort or durability? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the Aeronaut 1’s design, performance, packability, and real-world usability, and see how it stacks up against traditional ultralight tents.

Key Specifications

FeatureDetails
Weight1.2 kg (total packed weight)
Packed Size28 cm x 13 cm
Pitching StyleOuter-first, inflatable pole
Waterproof Rating3,000mm HH (fly & floor)
Seasons3-season
Inflation ValveSchrader (bike pump) + 2-way
Porch SpaceYes, side entry with vestibule
Price£159.99 (tent only)

Design and Build Quality

The Aeronaut 1 is built around a circular inflatable air pole that replaces the need for long, rigid tent poles. This design allows the tent to compress into a compact cylinder, ideal for stashing in bikepacking bags or kayak hatches.

Materials

  • Flysheet: 15D silicone/PU-coated ripstop nylon
  • Inner: 20D breathable nylon
  • Floor: 20D PU-coated ripstop nylon
  • Poles: One inflatable TPU arch + two short alloy struts at the foot end
  • Pegs: 11x Y-beam alloy stakes with reflective guy lines

The materials strike a balance between lightweight performance and durability, with reinforced stress points and a 3,000mm hydrostatic head for reliable weather protection.

Pitching and Setup

Pitching the Aeronaut 1 is refreshingly simple:

  1. Lay out the tent with the inner already attached to the fly (after initial setup).
  2. Peg out the six main anchor points.
  3. Inflate the air pole using a bike pump or foot pump.
  4. Insert the two short alloy poles at the foot end.
  5. Adjust guy lines and tension locks for a taut pitch.

Setup takes under 5 minutes once familiar, and the outer-first pitch keeps the inner dry in wet conditions. The dual-valve system (Schrader + two-way) offers flexibility depending on your pump setup.

Interior Space and Livability

Despite its compact footprint, the Aeronaut 1 offers a surprisingly livable interior:

  • Length: 240 cm
  • Width: 145 cm at widest point
  • Height: ~100 cm at peak
  • Vestibule: Side-entry with enough room for shoes, helmet, and bags

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Three internal pockets for essentials
  • Lantern loop above the head
  • Mesh door for ventilation
  • Air vent above the entrance to reduce condensation

While you can’t comfortably sit upright for long periods, there’s enough room to lie down, change clothes, and store gear. Taller users (over 6ft) may find the footbox a bit tight, especially with a thick mat and sleeping bag.

Performance in the Field

Weather Resistance

The Aeronaut 1 performs well in moderate wind and rain, with the air pole providing a flexible yet stable structure. The flysheet sheds water effectively, and the inner remains dry even in prolonged showers.

However, in heavy wind, the inflatable arch can flex more than traditional poles. While this reduces the risk of snapping, it can lead to sagging at the foot end, especially if not pitched tautly.

Condensation Management

The tent includes a vent above the door and a generous gap between the inner and outer layers. In humid or cold conditions, some condensation is inevitable, but the design helps minimise drips and pooling.

Durability

The TPU air pole is robust and can be repaired with a standard puncture kit. Alpkit includes repair patches for all fabrics, and the tent is backed by their 3-Year Alpine Bond.

Packability and Portability

This is where the Aeronaut 1 truly shines. With no long poles, the tent compresses into a 28 x 13 cm cylinder, making it one of the most packable double-wall tents available.

It fits easily into:

  • Handlebar rolls
  • Seatpacks
  • Kayak hatches
  • Small rucksacks

For bikepackers, paddlers, and ultralight hikers, this compact form factor is a major advantage.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Extremely compact and lightweight
  • Inflates with a bike pump—no poles to snap or lose
  • Fast outer-first pitch keeps inner dry
  • Spacious vestibule for gear storage
  • Repairable and durable materials
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Limited headroom—not ideal for extended time inside
  • Can sag at foot end in heavy rain
  • Inflation takes effort with mini pumps
  • Not freestanding—requires pegging out

Ideal Use Cases

The Alpkit Aeronaut 1 is best suited for:

  • Bikepacking: Fits bar bags and inflates with your pump
  • Kayak camping: Packs into tight hatches
  • Fast-and-light hiking: Minimal weight and bulk
  • Wild camping: Stealthy green colour and quick pitch
  • Overnighters: Perfect for short trips where simplicity matters

It’s less ideal for:

  • Extended basecamp use
  • High alpine or winter conditions
  • Users who need to sit upright inside

Verdict: Is the Alpkit Aeronaut 1 Worth It?

If you’re looking for a lightweight, compact, and innovative tent for bikepacking or minimalist adventures, the Alpkit Aeronaut 1 is a standout choice. Its inflatable design eliminates the hassle of poles, and its packability is unmatched in its class.

While it’s not the most spacious or stormproof tent on the market, it delivers excellent value, clever design, and real-world usability for solo adventurers who prioritise weight and simplicity.

Final Score: 8.5/10 Best for: Bikepackers, paddlers, and fast-and-light hikers Avoid if: You need headroom or plan to camp in extreme weather

Check Alpkit Aeronaut 1 Tent prices on Amazon