Spring camping season is in full swing and now is the time to stock up on all of your essentials, including one of the best camping tents! It doesn't matter if you're an expert camper or someone who has only recently discovered the joy—we've got a tent that's just right for you and your camp-anions.
Let's start with the basics: You have the option of two types of camping tents. There are car-camping ones, which work well for groups of friends and families. Then, there are backpacking tents that are lightweight, smaller, and your best bet for solo or couple hikes and trips. When you're hunting for car-camping tents, it's best to overestimate how much space you'll need since no one wants to sleep like sardines. Plus, you'll need to have enough room for your camping essentials like sleeping bags, weekender bags, and coolers.
Once you've chosen between those two types of tents, it's time to consider your camping needs: Are you willing to spend some time pitching your tent or do you want one that pops up instantly? Do you need space for lounging or strictly to get some Z's under the stars? Is durability important or are you a once-a-year adventurer? You'll also want to look for features like a rainfly (which will protect against rain and wind) and interior pockets for stashing your belongings. Some tents even come with an electricity access port if you don't really want to unplug.
In this gallery you'll find options for every budget and camping style. Before you head out, make sure to pack the best trail mix recipes and camping stoves!
If you're not the handiest, this tent is a great option: Pre-attached poles make it a cinch to set up. It also comes with a rainfly for inclement weather. Note: This price is for a tent that sleeps six.
What this tent lacks in space (it's just 4 feet tall!), it makes up for in thoughtful features like a small footlocker, a port for electric cords, and a mat outside the door. At under $40, the price is unbeatable.
This spacious tent fits up to nine people and two queen-sized air mattresses! And if you don't have a crew of nine, you can convert the right side of the tent into a living area. Thanks to attached poles, it's easy to put up and take down.
If you're camping for just a couple of nights, you likely don't need all the bells and whistles that some of the pricier options on the market provide. This lightweight tent is simple to set up and comes with some handy features like a rainfly, an electricity access port, and interior pockets for stashing your belongings.
This lightweight tent is perfect for backpacking. The mesh panels will give you unobstructed 360-degree views, and a rainfly means you can have privacy and protection from the elements, too.
It's pricier than the other options in this gallery, but this sturdy tent, which includes a full rainfly and a geodesic design that's built for wind and rain protection, will stand up to the elements. This one is great for two people, but if you're camping with a crowd you can upgrade to the Base Camp 6 Tent.
If you want some extra space for lounging, consider this roomy tent: It stands 7 feet tall! Stash pockets help you keep your things organized and a power port means you can plug in if needed.
Similar to the Coleman Camping Tent, this pricier pick is super sturdy and foolproof to set up. A 6'8"-high ceiling will give taller campers lots of headroom, and three windows provide plenty of ventilation.
Who says tents are just for sleeping!? You can hang out in the 10-by-5-foot screen room attached to this tent, which is equipped with bug-proof mesh panels.