Camping Tent Buying Guide

A peaceful night-time camping scene with illuminated tents under a starry sky amidst towering pine trees, featuring Best Outdoor Gear.

Camping tents have been used as shelter for outdoor adventures for centuries. Historically, they were primarily used by soldiers on campaign, traders, and explorers. However, it wasn’t until the mid-19th century that recreational camping became popular. The first commercial camping tent was created and sold in the 1850s. Since then, camping tents have continued to evolve, becoming lighter, more durable, and better designed to suit different camping needs. Today, camping tents are a staple for those who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors.

Camping tents come in different types and sizes depending on their use, weather resistance, and occupants. Popular types include backpacking, family, dome, wall, and tunnel tents. Backpacking tents are lightweight, while family tents are spacious. Dome tents are easy to set up, and cabin tents offer more headroom. Tunnel tents provide stability and space in bad weather. 

Consider these top-rated and best-reviewed options on Amazon

Best Backpacking Tent
A backpacking tent is a practical and efficient solution for backpacking excursions, enabling you to pack more efficiently and move at a quicker pace while improving your outdoor adventure.

Looking for a reliable and spacious backpacking tent for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the Night Cat Backpacking Tent, designed to comfortably fit one to two persons. With its sturdy construction and easy setup, this tent is the perfect choice for solo hikers or couples looking to explore the great outdoors. Don’t let the elements hold you back – invest in a Night Cat tent today.

Find other great camping gear at The Night Cat Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The Night Cat Store on Amazon

Best Family Tent

If you’re in the market for a new family tent, it’s important to find one that suits your needs. Factors to consider include size, weather resistance, and ease of setup. With the right tent, you can enjoy many happy camping trips with your family for years to come.

Looking for the perfect shelter for your next camping trip? Look no further than the Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent – the ultimate solution for all your camping needs. With a spacious interior, easy instant pole setup, and a convenient zipper closure, you’ll have everything you need for a hassle-free and comfortable camping adventure. Don’t settle for less, choose the Core 9 for your upcoming outdoor excursion. 

Find other great camping gear at The CORE Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The CORE Store on Amazon

Best Dome Tent

Dome tents are a superior choice for outdoor shelter. They offer easy setup, unmatched durability, and ample space, making them the perfect choice for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re camping or simply enjoying nature, these tents are an excellent investment.

Looking to elevate your outdoor experience? Look no further than the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent. With top-of-the-line WeatherTec protection, a user-friendly setup, and a cutting-edge Insta-Clip suspension system, this durable and cozy tent is the ultimate choice for camping enthusiasts. Get ready to cozy up in style and comfort on your next outdoor adventure. 

Find other great camping gear at The Coleman Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit the Coleman Store on Amazon

Best Wall Tent

Wall tents are sturdy canvas tents that offer ample space for camping and outdoor activities. They have structural support systems such as poles and ropes to keep them stable in heavy winds or rain. Wall tents are also perfect for families or groups needing extra sleeping space and often used as base camps for hunting or fishing expeditions. With proper care, they can last for many years.

Experience the ultimate comfort and safety during your camping trip with the premium WHITEDUCK Alpha Canvas Wall Tent. Engineered with an innovative stove jack feature, you can effortlessly heat your shelter without any concerns about potential fire hazards. Crafted with the finest quality materials, this sturdy and long-lasting tent is engineered to withstand even the toughest weather conditions, elevating your camping experience to the next level. 

Find other great camping gear at The WHITEDUCK Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The WHITEDUCK Store on Amazon

Best Tunnel Tent

Tunnel tents provide the utmost comfort and convenience during outdoor adventures with their spacious headroom, abundant living space, and effortless setup. They are the perfect choice for any outdoor enthusiast looking to elevate their camping experience.

Looking for a reliable and durable backpacking tent for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the Naturehike Opalus Tunnel Backpacking Tent. This top-rated tent offers superior design and construction, ensuring reliable protection and a comfortable outdoor experience. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – choose the Naturehike Opalus Tunnel Backpacking Tent for your next expedition. 

Find other great camping gear at The Naturehike Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The Naturehike Store on Amazon

Other Options to Consider

Check out these unique camping tent options that can provide a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Leave behind traditional camping and try something new with these unconventional choices.

Single Person Tents

Choose a one-person tent for improved privacy and freedom on solo camping trips. They’re easy to set up and move around, making them ideal for backpackers. Enjoy the outdoors with a unique camping experience.

GEERTOP Ultralight Bivy Tent is one of the best options for camping enthusiasts who are looking for a lightweight and compact shelter. This tent is designed to provide excellent protection from the elements while also being easy to set up and take down. It is perfect for solo backpackers who need a reliable shelter that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors. With its durable and water-resistant materials, the GEERTOP Ultralight Bivy Tent is an excellent investment for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors. 

Find other great camping gear at The GEERTOP Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The GEERTOP Store on Amazon

Pop-up Tents

Fast set up tents make camping a breeze! Spend more time enjoying the stunning outdoors and less time wrestling with tent poles. They’re perfect for all campers, whether you’re a pro or a beginner. Happy camping!

The Coleman Pop-Up Camping Tent with Instant Setup is a great addition to any outdoor excursion. Its simple assembly allows for relaxation and enjoyment of the surroundings without the hassle of a complex setup. This tent provides ample space for you and your companions while remaining durable and lightweight for easy transport. Whether you are camping in the wilderness or simply enjoying a day in the park, the Coleman Pop-Up Camping Tent with Instant Setup is the ideal partner for your outdoor needs. 

Find other great camping gear at The Coleman Store on Amazon

Specifications

Visit The Coleman Store on Amazon

Hammock Tents

Enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style with a hammock tent. Durable and easy to set up, it offers unparalleled relaxation for the perfect camping experience.

The Night Cat Camping Hammock Tent with Mosquito Net and Rain Fly offers a dependable solution for those who enjoy being immersed in nature. This durable and comfortable hammock effectively protects against unwanted insects and rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and lounging. Its robust construction ensures a secure and peaceful rest amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.

Tent Cot

Looking to up your camping game? Grab a cozy tent cot! Sleep elevated and dry with built-in rain protection. Easy setup means more time for relaxing and recharging. Don’t settle for mediocre camping – take your experience to the next level with one of these.

The Kamp-Rite Oversize Tent Cot is the perfect combination of a camping cot and tent, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable no matter the weather. With a durable frame and quality materials, this tent cot is built to last. The oversize dimensions provide ample room for sleeping and storage.

Related
F. A.Q

Tents come in many styles, but the most commonly used tent style is the dome tent. With its easy-to-assemble design and sturdy construction, the dome tent is a great choice for camping trips of any length. It offers plenty of space and is aerodynamic, making it a good choice in windy conditions. Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro, a dome tent is a reliable option for your next outdoor adventure.

As the name suggests, a three-season tent is designed to be suitable for use during three out of the four seasons of the year. This means that it is ideal for camping trips in the spring, summer, and fall but may not be the best option for winter camping. With features like lightweight materials, ventilation options, and rain-fly attachments, a three-season tent can offer the perfect combination of comfort and protection for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer excursion, a three-season tent is definitely worth considering.

Tunnel tents provide ample headroom, create an illusion of a larger living space, and are highly resilient against harsh winds, making them ideal for camping enthusiasts. They offer hassle-free camping experiences and are a must-have for anyone who enjoys spending time in nature.

A stove jack is a necessary component for any stove being used inside an enclosed space, such as a tent or cabin. It functions as a small opening in the wall or roof to securely allow the stovepipe to pass through, without the risk of drafts, moisture, or debris entering. Various materials and sizes of stove jacks are available, depending on the location and type of stove. To ensure secure and efficient stove operation, it is crucial to choose the appropriate stove jack.

A bivvy is a light, portable shelter for camping and outdoor activities. It’s made from waterproof material and can protect you from the weather while sleeping outside. Easy to set up and pack, it’s a popular choice for backpackers and hikers. Bivvies come in different sizes and shapes, from one-man to two-man tents.

Contributor
Picture of Joshua Gibbs

Joshua Gibbs

Since the age of 25, Joshua has been an Alaskan bush pilot, flying and exploring Alaska's Southeast wilderness. He is passionate about survival and takes pride in having the skills and tools to be prepared for any and every situation

Best Brands on Amazon

Outdoor Dimes may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article