Tents

Your shelter in the wild - from ultralight backpacking to family car camping adventures.

3+ tents tested in real conditions

Top-Rated Shelters

The highest-rated tents in our testing, proven in conditions from desert winds to mountain storms

REI Co-op Quarter Dome SL 2

REI Co-op

Quarter Dome SL 2
(4.5)
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Big Agnes

Copper Spur HV UL2
(4.6)
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2

MSR

Hubba Hubba NX 2
(4.5)

Shop by Use

Find the right shelter for your camping style and conditions

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Backpacking Tents

Lightweight, compact tents designed for carrying in your pack. Balance of weight, space, and durability.

Weight: 2-5 lbs for 2-person
Compact pack size
Easy setup systems
Shop Backpacking Tents
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Car Camping Tents

Spacious, comfortable tents for when you can drive to your campsite. Focus on livability over weight.

Large interior space
Multiple rooms available
Family-friendly features
Shop Car Camping Tents
🏔️

Mountaineering Tents

Four-season tents built to withstand extreme weather, heavy snow loads, and high winds.

Four-season protection
Strong pole systems
Snow load capacity
Shop Mountaineering Tents

Understanding Tent Features

Key design elements that affect performance, comfort, and durability

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Construction Types

Freestanding

Uses poles to stand without stakes. Easy setup, can be moved once pitched.

Semi-Freestanding

Requires stakes at head/foot for full setup. Good balance of stability and ease.

Non-Freestanding

Requires stakes and guylines. Lighter weight but more complex setup.

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Weather Protection

3-Season

Spring, summer, fall use. Prioritizes ventilation and weight savings.

4-Season

Year-round including winter. Stronger poles, less mesh, snow shedding design.

Convertible

Can be configured for different seasons with removable components.

🌬️

Ventilation Systems

Mesh Panels

Large mesh areas for airflow. Essential for preventing condensation.

Vestibules

Covered area outside sleeping space. Gear storage and cooking protection.

Vents

Adjustable openings at peak and base for continuous airflow.

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Space Efficiency

Floor Area

Usable sleeping space. 25+ sq ft per person for comfort.

Peak Height

Affects livability. 40+ inches allows sitting up comfortably.

Wall Angle

Vertical walls maximize usable space vs. sloped walls.

Tent Sizing Guide

Choose the right capacity for your needs and comfort preferences

1️⃣

1-Person

Floor: 17-25 sq ft

Weight: 1-3 lbs

Best for: Solo ultralight

2️⃣

2-Person

Floor: 28-35 sq ft

Weight: 2-5 lbs

Best for: Couples, friends

3️⃣

3-Person

Floor: 40-50 sq ft

Weight: 4-7 lbs

Best for: Small families

4️⃣+

4+ Person

Floor: 55+ sq ft

Weight: 6+ lbs

Best for: Families, groups

Pro Sizing Tips

Size up for gear storage, comfort, or if you're tall/broad

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Consider vestibules for additional gear storage space

📏

Check length if you're over 6 feet tall for adequate room

Popular Brands

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