On any trip, there’s plenty that’s out of your control. There’s the weather, for one; or the volume of your next-door neighbour’s bass-heavy Bluetooth speaker. But there are some conditions you can prep for, and investing in the perfect pitch (read: best tent) is the best place to start.
Our team evaluated tents of different styles and shapes, packing them off with suitably sized groups for overnight trips. Each was assessed for spaciousness and comfort, as well as the ease and speed they could be packed, carried and pitched.
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As the weather is tough to predict these days, reliable waterproofing weighed heavily into our estimations. Bonus features such as split bedroom and living sections, internal pockets, light hooks and carry bags also helped some of our canvas heroes net extra points.
Whatever you need, we’ve found a tent that’ll work for you. Take a minute to peruse our list of the most reliable buys before loading up the car boot. Happy camping.
The 6 Best Tents To Take Camping
1. The Family-Friendly Tent
Decathlon Arpenaz 4.2 Blackout Poled Tent
Overall Rating: 72/100
Performance: 4.3/5
Design: 3.4/5
Ease of use: 3.1/5
Bargain Break: With a stand up area and two bedrooms, this tent is a solid bet for families on short getaways. It’s affordably priced and offers impressive weatherproofing.
Expert Opinion: The instructions proved a little confusing and made pitching a faff, so you might consider a trial run. Stashing it back into its bag was a wrestle, but rest assured, it’ll keep you dry in a downpour.
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2. The Simple Tent
Black Diamond Distance Tent
Overall Rating: 88/100
Performance: 4.2/5
Design: 4.5/5
Ease of Use: 3.5/5
Lightweight Luggage: Weighing in at just 725 grams and only 30cm long when packed, this is a minimalist option which still accommodates two people.
Expert Opinion: The serious adventurer will appreciate this setup most. Using any set of hiking poles, connected to an adapter piece (included), creates the frame to support your tent, leaving you with a special sense of satisfaction.
3. The Decadent & Detailed Tent
NatureHike 9.6 Cotton Pyramid Tent
Overall Rating: 85/100
Performance: 3.7/5
Design: 4.0/5
Ease of Use: 4.6/5
Summer Nights Dream: The top of this unusual tepee-style tent opens up for stargazing—ideal for those with kids. Assembly is speedy and it’s deceptively spacious.
Expert Opinion: A doddle to assemble, thanks to its very clear instruction manual—and the fact that it only requires a single pole. It’s heavier than some options, and although it’s cotton, the fabric has been treated to be weather and mould resistant.
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4. The Two-Person Tent
Sea to Summit Telos TR2
Overall Rating: 78/100
Performance: 4.1/5
Design: 3.8/5
Ease of Use: 3.8/5
Multiple Setup Modes: Space, height and ventilation are all accounted for in this two-person bubble. You can choose your setup from a variety of designs, including a hangout mode to make yours the most sociable camp spot of the bunch.
Expert Opinion: The high, wide entrance creates great views from inside the tent so picking a good space at your campsite becomes advantageous. Two large storage sections come in handy for the bits and pieces which otherwise end up poking you in the ribs at night.
5. The Any-Weather Tent
Wild Country Coshee 2 Tent
Overall Rating: 75/100
Performance: 3.5/5
Design: 4.2/5
Ease of Use: 3.6/5
Weather Ready: An asymmetrical design is called a weather-cheating feature where the wind, rain and condensation are thwarted by the wedge profile.
Expert Opinion: The novelty of being able to open up both sides for two doors and two porches was surprisingly useful when coming and going. If your needs are for one or three people, the same design for those options are also available.
