When planning your next outdoor adventure, choosing the right camping gear is crucial. Your tent, in particular, is perhaps the most important piece of equipment you’ll need as it provides shelter and protection from the elements.
With so many factors to consider, such as the time of year and the type of camping trip you’re taking, it’s essential to choose the right tent for your needs.
Thankfully, there are many top-rated options available for every type of outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re planning on camping in a national park, on the beach, or anywhere else, there is an ideal option out there for you.
In this article, we’ll explore the various factors to consider when selecting a camping tent and provide you with some of the best options on the market.
The Best Camping Tents of 2022:
Looking for the perfect camping tent can be a daunting task, but fear not, we’ve got you covered. After extensive research on Reddit & on scouring Amazon & social media reviews, we’ve come up with a list of the best camping tents of 2022.
Our selection includes tents that prioritize quality, design, and options for the ultimate camping experience.
Here are our top picks:
- Best Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL Tent
- Best Canopy Tent for Camping: CLAM Quick-Set Escape
- Best Dome Tent for Camping: ALPHA CAMP 3/4 Person Camping Dome
- Best Car Camping Tent: Eureka! Space Camp, Three-Season Camping Tent
- Best Cabin Tent: Eureka! Copper Canyon LX
- Best Solo Camping Tent: REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 1 Tent
- Best Two-Person Camping Tent: The North Face Stormbreak 2-Person Tent
- Best Family Camping Tent: Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Best Four-Season Camping Tent: Eureka! Mountain Pass Four-Season Extreme Weather Backpacking Tent (2 or 3 Person)
- Best Budget Tent: Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
- Best Waterproof Tent: Woods Lookout 8-Person 3-Season Tent
No matter what your camping needs are, one of these tents is sure to provide the ultimate camping experience.
Best Backpacking Tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent
The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent might just be what you need.
Weighing in at about 3 pounds, this tent is lightweight and won’t weigh you down as you backpack to your campsite.
Plus, it folds up to 6 x 19.5 inches, leaving you plenty of space in your backpack for all your other necessities.
This tent features off-the-floor storage, ensuring your important items stay safe and dry, and the seams are taped with waterproof, solvent-free polyurethane tape.
The canopy fabric is made of double ripstop nylon, keeping the tent light enough to easily haul with your gear but strong enough to withstand the elements.
Recent campers have raved about the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent, noting that it’s lightweight enough for carrying on hiking trips, yet roomy enough to be comfortable when set up.
So, if you’re looking for a lightweight and durable backpacking tent, the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent might just be the perfect fit for you.
Lightweight, spacious 2-person backpacking tent with high-volume design for comfortable outdoor adventures. Features durable, weather-resistant construction and easy setup.
Best Canopy Tent for Camping: CLAM Quick-Set Escape Screen Tent
If you’re looking for a spacious and easy-to-set-up canopy tent for your camping trip, the CLAM Quick-Set Escape Screen Tent is an excellent choice.
With dimensions of 140 inches wide and 140 inches long, this eight-person pop-up shelter provides ample space for sleeping, eating, and relaxing.
It can even accommodate a standard-sized picnic table.
Setting up the tent takes less than a minute, and the taped roof panel made with water-resistant fabric ensures that you stay dry even in wet weather.
The high-quality mesh screen walls keep bugs out, while allowing for proper ventilation.
The tent comes with a carrying case, stakes, and tie-down ropes for easy transportation and setup.
Users rave about how easy the CLAM Quick-Set Escape Screen Tent is to put up and take down.
At a price of $299, this canopy tent is a great investment for your next camping trip.
Best Dome Tent for Camping: Alpha Camp 3 Person Backpacking Camping Tent
Looking for a reliable and comfortable camping tent?
The Alpha Camp 3 Person Backpacking Camping Tent is a great option for your next outdoor adventure.
With high-grade fiberglass poles, this dome tent is secure and stable, even in windy conditions.
The tent also features three zippered windows for ventilation, ensuring that you stay cool and comfortable all night long.
Additionally, the mesh storage pocket inside keeps your valuables safe and within reach.
The tent’s electrical port access is also a great feature, allowing you to charge your electronics while keeping them close by.
Assembly is quick and easy, and the tent is adaptable to different weather conditions.
Best Car Camping Tent: Eureka! Space Camp 4 Person Tent
If you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable tent for your next car camping trip, the Eureka! Space Camp 4 Person Tent is a great option to consider.
This freestanding tent is designed to accommodate up to four people and is equipped with an adjustable venting system to ensure optimal airflow and temperature control.
With two large doors and vestibules, you’ll have plenty of space to store your gear and move around inside the tent.
One of the standout features of this tent is its 10 pockets, which provide ample storage space and make it easy to stay organized.
The rainfly is made with 68-denier ripstop polyester, ensuring that you stay dry during wet weather.
According to purchasers, this tent comfortably fits a queen-size air mattress plus gear, making it a great choice for car campers who value comfort and convenience.
At $369.95 or less, the Eureka! Space Camp 4 Person Tent is a solid investment for anyone looking for a reliable and spacious car camping tent.
Best Cabin Tent: Eureka! Copper Canyon LX 4 Person Tent
Looking for a spacious and easy-to-set-up tent for your next camping trip? Look no further than the Eureka! Copper Canyon LX 4 Person Tent.
This tent has plenty of room for up to four people, even with air mattresses or cots. With a combination steel-fiberglass frame featuring quick clips, pole sleeves, and corner hubs, this tent is a breeze to set up.
The extended fly coverage over the door will keep you dry in wet weather, and the gear loft provides extra storage space.
You’ll love the headroom and near-vertical walls, allowing you to stand up inside without any issues. At only $259.95 or less, this tent is a great value for the space and features it provides.
Best Solo Camping Tent: REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 1 Tent
If you’re planning a solo camping trip, the REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 1 Tent is an excellent choice.
This tent offers plenty of space for one person, while still being lightweight at around 2.5 pounds.
The interior of the tent includes handy pockets and hang loops, so you can easily organize all of your gear.
The rainfly will keep you dry during wet weather, and the roof vent allows for airflow to keep you comfortable in warmer temperatures.
Setting up the tent is a breeze, even if you’re on your own, thanks to the color-coded poles. And, if you encounter strong winds, you’ll be impressed with how well this camping tent holds up.
The REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 1 Tent is priced at $329 or less, making it a great value for solo campers. View deals online to find the best price.
Best Two-Person Camping Tent: The North Face Stormbreak 2-Person Tent
Looking for a reliable and spacious tent for your camping trip with your partner?
The North Face Stormbreak 2-Person Tent is a great option that won’t break the bank. With doors that stuff into pockets, the tent is easy to set up and pack away.
The fully seam-taped canopy and floor provide excellent protection from the rain, while the high-low ventilation ensures optimal airflow for a comfortable sleeping experience.
Recent users have praised the color-coordinated setup system, making setup even easier.
At $184.95 or less, this tent is a great value for any camping couple.
Best Family Camping Tent: Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
Looking for a spacious and comfortable camping tent for your family?
Look no further than the Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent.
This tent offers plenty of room for up to nine people, with a floor plan that can fit nine adult sleeping bags or two queen-sized mattresses.
The near-vertical walls and 78-inch center height ensure that every family member can stand up comfortably inside.
This family tent also features a detachable room divider for added privacy, perfect for families with older children or multiple couples.
The large door makes it easy to enter and exit the tent, while the spacious interior provides plenty of living space for your family and pets.
In addition to its spacious interior, the Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent also comes with extra features, including a removable rainfly, tent stakes, and an expandable carry bag for easy packing.
Recent buyers rave about the convenience of the carry bag, making this tent a great choice for families on the go.
Overall, the Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent is a top choice for families looking for a spacious, comfortable, and livable camping tent.
Best Four-Season Camping Tent: Eureka! Mountain Pass 2 Person Tent
Looking for a camping tent that can withstand any weather condition?
Look no further than the Eureka! Mountain Pass 2 Person Tent.
With its sturdy aluminum poles and secure guylines, this tent can stand up to strong winds and harsh weather.
The waterproof rainfly and breathable canopy with removable side panels provide optimal ventilation during warmer months while keeping you dry during colder and rainier weather.
With 32 square feet of interior space, this tent is perfect for two people and is a great option for winter camping. At $334.95 or less, this tent is a great investment for year-round camping.
Best Budget Tent: Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
Looking for an affordable and easy-to-use camping tent?
Look no further than the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent.
With a price tag of only $69.99 or less for a two-person tent, this budget camping tent is perfect for those who want to stay within their price range without sacrificing quality.
One of the best features of the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent is its ease of setup. With sturdy frame and pole attachments, you can easily set up this tent in no time.
Recent reviewers have also praised the durability and quality of this tent, making it a great value for the affordable price.
In addition to its ease of use and affordability, the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent also offers great protection from the elements.
The Weathertec system with welded floors and inverted seams will keep you dry even in the toughest weather conditions.
Plus, this tent can withstand winds of 35+ mph, making it a reliable choice for any camping trip.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget tent that offers ease of setup, durability, and great value, the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent is the perfect choice for you.
Best Waterproof Tent: Woods Lookout 8-Person 3-Season Tent
If you are planning a camping trip, you need a tent that can keep you dry and comfortable in case of rain.
The Woods Lookout 8-Person 3-Season Tent is an excellent option for those looking for a waterproof tent.
This tent features a water-resistant coating and taped seams on the exterior, floor, and rainfly, ensuring that you stay dry even during heavy rain.
Additionally, the preattached mesh panels keep the bugs out, making your camping experience more enjoyable.
Made by a Canadian company, the Woods Lookout 8-Person 3-Season Tent has been tested for extreme durability in the Canadian outdoors.
This tent also has a roomy vestibule that allows you to enter and exit without getting the inside of the tent wet.
Priced at $259 or less, this tent is an affordable option for families or groups of up to eight people.
You might also be interested in:
If you are looking for other waterproof tents, you might be interested in the following options:
- Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Outdoor Tent
- ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4-Person Tent
- NTK Laredo GT 8 to 9 Person Tent
Remember to always check the rainfly and seams of the tent before purchasing to ensure that it is waterproof. With the right tent, you can enjoy your camping trip even in rainy weather.
Tent Comparisson Table
| Tent Name | Price | Dimensions | Capacity | Weight | Doors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 | $499 | 19.69″L x 5.91″W x 5.91″H | 2-person | 2.6 lb | 2 |
| CLAM Quick-Set Escape Screen | $299 | 138″L x 138″W x 90″H | 8-person | 2.82 lb | 1 |
| Alpha Camp 3 Person Backpacking | $49 | 96″L x 84″W x 50″H | 3-person | – | – |
| Eureka! Space Camp 4 Person | $279 | 96″L x 90″W x 68″H | 4-person | 13.9 lb | 2 |
| Eureka! Copper Canyon LX 4 Person | $222 | 96″L x 96″W x 84″H | 4-person | 17.3 lb | 2 |
| REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 1 | $230 | 88″L x 35″W x 38″ H | 1-person | 2.6 lb | 1 |
| The North Face Stormbreak 2-Person | $184 | 78.74″L x 47.24″W x 47.24″H | 2-person | – | 2 |
| Core 9 Person Instant Cabin | $249 | 48″L x 11″W x 10.5″H | 9-person | – | – |
| Eureka! Mountain Pass 2 Person | $386 | 88″L x 78″W x 44″H | 2-person | – | – |
| Coleman Sundome | $78 | 108″L x 84″W x 59″H | – | – | – |
| Woods Lookout 8-Person 3-Season | $414 | 23.5″L x 10″W x 10″H | 8-person | – | 2 |
Camping Tent Types
The camping tent market divides mainly into two categories. Premium designs feature high-end materials, focusing on livability and comfort, while affordable models are simpler, usually costing less than $250. Each type’s pros and cons, and crossover camping/backpacking options, are explored in detail.
Premium Camping Tents
Premium tents are expensive but offer a home-like experience with spacious designs, effective ventilation, and sturdy construction. Price typically starts at $350 for six-person models, offering features like near-vertical walls and full-coverage rainflies.
Budget Camping Tents
Budget tents offer basic functionality for fair-weather camping. They’re less expensive but may lack in weather resistance. Typically, these tents are heavier and more durable, but vulnerable in storms.
Crossover Camping and Backpacking Tents
Crossover models are suitable for camping and backpacking. They’re less spacious but versatile, balancing lightweight design with enough space for comfortable camping.
Floor Area
Floor dimensions are crucial for livability. Tents usually have comparable floor areas based on capacity, but shape and layout also influence spaciousness.
Peak Height and Pole Structure
Peak height and pole design greatly impact a tent’s interior space, with more advanced structures providing more vertical walls and walkable space.
Capacity: How Many People Actually Fit in These Tents?
Capacity is determined by the number of standard sleeping pads that fit inside. However, for comfort, it’s advisable to choose a tent larger than the number of occupants.
Number of Doors
Multiple doors in large tents enhance accessibility and airflow. Single-door models are common in budget tents, but less convenient.
Storage Space: Pockets, Vestibules, and Garages
Storage features vary, with premium tents offering more options like vestibules for gear storage and interior pockets.
Weather Resistance
Premium tents generally provide better weather resistance with robust materials, seam sealing, and full-coverage rainflies.
Ventilation
Tent ventilation is tied to price, with premium models offering better airflow and moisture management through double-wall construction and mesh.
Build Quality and Durability
Higher-end tents use quality materials for durability and longevity, while budget options may suffice for occasional use in good weather.
Setup and Take Down
Setting up large tents can be complex and time-consuming, with some models offering simplified “instant” setup designs.
Ground Dimensions
The footprint of tents varies, with larger models requiring more space, important to consider based on camping location.
Weight and Packed Size
Tent weight and packed size range widely, affecting portability and storage, with crossover models being lighter and more compact.
Footprints
Using a footprint or ground cloth can extend a tent’s lifespan, with options ranging from specially designed footprints to generic tarps.
What About Rooftop Tents?
Rooftop tents, an emerging category, offer convenience and comfort but are expensive and require significant storage space.
The Rest of Your Camping Kit
Camping involves various gear, with tents being the central item. Quality gear generally offers better comfort and longevity.
