Camping Gear Reviews & Guides
How to Attach a Propane Tank to a Camping Stove
Many of us turn to camp stoves to prepare our meals in the backcountry, and why not? Camping stoves are a simple, convenient, and effective way to cook meals and heat water while you’re away from your kitchen at home. There’s a surprising amount you can cook using a camping stove, food that’s just as delicious as what you might cook normally. There are so many options from backcountry dining, from dehydrated backpacking recipes to five-star backcountry cuisine.
A camping stove is a wonderful solution for outdoor dining, no matter if you’re on a camping or fishing trip, on the road in an RV, or hosting an outdoor event. BBQ grills and delicious hot meals will make you the next top camp chef. The best camping stoves allow you to have a hot and nutritious meal even when you’re far from home. However, in order to make the most of this tool, you’ll need to know how to use it.
Using a camping stove can be a little confusing if you aren’t used to using a gas stove, as many of us now have electric cookers in our homes. Some campers may be wary of using flammable and potentially dangerous gas. It’s natural to have a few concerns, but we’re here to iron out the details. We’ll explain how to safely and properly attach a propane tank to a camping stove, so you’ll be ready to cook up some delicious camping meals in no time. Also included is some safety information about camp stoves, as well as some tips to get the most out of your gear.
Gas fuelled camping stoves are the best way to get a hot meal in the backcountry.
Camping stoves v.s. campfires
Camping stoves share their popularity on campsites with campfires, both offering campers a hot meal at the end of the day. Nowadays, burner stoves have great popularity, but campfires hold on as the traditional choice. Each has its benefits and disadvantages, depending on your situation.
Campfires make for a great vacation photo and are wonderful for roasting smores, they’re one of the many ways you can have fun while camping. On the other hand, they’re highly regulated and many national parks don’t allow campfires at all. Campfires are time-consuming to light and put out, you have to wait until all embers are cold before vacating your campsite. Regarding fuel, you’ll either need to gather it, which relies heavily on there being enough material available. If you can’t find enough fuel, you might go cold and hungry. Alternatively, heavy firewood can be packed into your campsite, or purchased when you get there at a steep price. Either way, it’s not ideal.
Camping stoves, on the other hand, are much more versatile than a simple BBQ grill. A camp stove is compact, easily transportable, and will allow you to cook as you would at home. They light and extinguish in an instant, and there’s no need to build the flames. Fuel for camp stoves comes in either a solid or liquid form. Gas camping stoves use propane bottles or a propane canister, or some use dual fuel.
Propane v.s. butane gas
Camp stoves use two main types of gas fuel; propane and butane. An iso-butane mix is also available, but this is usually used for small and lightweight backpacking stoves. Propane and butane both come from petroleum and are both highly combustible fuels. However, the two are not interchangeable, each has its own upsides and downsides so every camper must decide for themselves.
Propane and butane have the same level of heat output, but butane offers 12% more energy. This means a butane canister will last longer than a propane tank of the same size. Butane stoves are generally smaller and cheaper, but butane can be hard to attain as fuel. When you do manage to locate a canister of butane, it’s likely to be expensive and non-refillable. Lastly, butane doesn’t work in colder temperatures, which is highly inconvenient.
Propane, however, works perfectly fine when it’s colder outside. Because it’s also cheaper and easier to find, we prefer propane as the fuel for camping stoves. Available anywhere, and you can refill your propane canister from a 20lb propane tank, making it the more eco-friendly option.
Camping stoves come in many forms, some heavy car camping appliances, and others, lightweight backpacking tools.
One reason we don’t like propane camp stoves
Propane gas camping stoves are a super-convenient way to cook in the backcountry. Propane is an efficient fuel, ideal for camping use, however, there’s one thing we don’t like about it. Unfortunately, the standard 1lb propane gas canisters which power most camp stoves are built to be disposable, while being seriously challenging to actually dispose of properly. Empty propane tanks are considered hazardous waste and are challenging to recycle. Most used propane tanks end up piling up in garages, dumped near campsites or abandoned somewhere else as trash.
While refill kits are available, it’s, unfortunately, illegal to transport refilled single-use bottles commercially. Improper refilling can be dangerous, so it’s not recommended by manufacturers, however, many campers still choose to do so. To minimize your negative impact, you can make sure your bottles are completely empty of gas before disposing of them, this makes propane canisters considerably less dangerous.
Alternatively, refillable propane tanks are available if you can stand the extra weight. Car campers can easily use a 5-pound propane tank and propane adaptor hose to hook up to their stove. These 5-pound tanks are refillable, and will also save you money in the long run by eliminating the disposable bottle waste. Refillable 1lb bottles are also available at a decreased weight and are still much cheaper and eco-friendly than disposable alternatives.
How to attach a propane tank to a camping stove
The first thing to do when setting up your camping stove is to check the instructions. Most newly-purchased camping stoves will include in instruction booklet detailing everything you need to know. Be sure to refer to these instructions for model-specific requirements, so make sure you get the most out of your camping stove.
1. Prepare to set up your camping stove by making sure you have everything you need. You should have your camping stove unit, as well as a propane gas tank, as well as a connection or hose to join the two.
2. Ensure you have an appropriate surface on which to set up. When setting up your camping stove, it’s imperative that you do so on a level and stable surface. You can’t risk your stove toppling over while you use it, this is obviously dangerous. If you’re camping on particularly uneven terrain, you may need to dig into the ground to create a level space. Make sure you’re happy that the environment is secure, then you can continue with setting up your stove.
3. Before completing the next step, make sure your camp stove is switched off completely and all settings are firmly in the off position. This will prevent dangerous leaks once we attach the gas pipe. Now, your connecting hose should twist easily onto the camping stove, make sure it’s tight and secure so there’s no danger of leakage, connected to the propane cylinder at the other end.
4. At this point, it’s a good idea to check for leaks, before you add any spark or flame into the mix. Once you see that all connections are securely sealed, you’ll be able to go on cooking with peace of mind. An easy way to check for leaks is to fill a spray bottle with a soapy solution and spray it on the connector points. If you see any bubbles form, it’s a sign of a loose connection or faulty equipment, so you’ll need to solve any problems before continuing. If there are no bubbles, you can carry on to the next step.
5. It’s time to test your work, so release the gas and you should hear it running into your stove. Light up one ring on your camping stove, either using a lighter, match, or the stove’s ignition. Once you have a steady flame, you can adjust the temperature to suit your needs, and you have a ready to use camping stove!
Propane gas bottles are the ideal camping fuel, just attach them with an adaptor hose and get cooking!
If your stove doesn’t work…
If one or all of the burners on your camping stove isn’t working correctly, there are a few common troubleshooting issues to go over. Firstly, you should check for anything blocking the vents on your stove. If the regulator becomes clogged with food and other debris, then it may prevent your camping stove from functioning properly. To remove the blockage, you can just tap at the stove to dislodge pieces, otherwise, a can of compressed air will remove stubborn debris.
Damage to the hose which connects your propane canister and the camp stove is also a common problem. Unfortunately, this usually means a replacement is required for the hose. However, replacements aren’t too expensive, and with them, you’ll have full use of your two-burner or single burner stove.
Coleman propane camping stoves
Coleman produces ever-popular and highly recommended classic camping stoves, like this one on Amazon. Coleman uses propane gas canisters for their camping lanterns and outdoor cooking stoves. These canisters can be refilled using a twenty-pound propane tank. To connect the canister to the 20lb propane tank, you can use an adaptor. Follow these instructions to refill your Coleman propane canisters.
1. Ensure your 20lb propane tank is in a temperature-controlled room and has adjusted to room temperature. Meanwhile, put your Coleman propane gas canister in a freezer to chill for 15 minutes.
2. Attach your propane bottle refill adaptor to the twenty-pound propane tank.
3. Take the Coleman propane bottle from the freezer and screw it into the other side of the adaptor.
4. Turn the propane tank upside down, and open the valve to allow the gas to rush into the smaller container. Once it is full, you won’t hear the gas anymore.
5. Close the valve on the propane tank and secure it, then set the tank down upright. You can now detach the Coleman canister.
Then, simply reattach your gas bottle to your Coleman camp stove, and you’re ready to cook!
Fixing a low flame on a camping stove
Setting up your camping stove, getting prepped to cook, and then igniting to find nothing but a tiny flame is a common and annoying problem for campers. Low flame issues are common with propane stoves due to a safety mechanism that limits gas flow in case of a leak. This safety feature prevents fuel from leaking without you knowing, as you would go to turn on the stove and be faced with a nasty surprise. This safety feature prevents dangerous explosions, but if there’s no emergency then it’s just preventing you from eating your breakfast.
To address this problem, start by turning off all your stove burners and closing the propane tank. Disconnect the regulator once everything is in the off position, and give it a few seconds to reset. You can reconnect the regulator to the tank and now you’ll need to perform a leak test using soapy solution. If the propane hose and all the connection points are leak- and bubble-free when you open the tank valve and hear the rushing gas, then you can try lighting the stove once more. If you do see bubbles, then it’s time to asses the damage and fix some leaks. Otherwise, the flame on your burner should now look normal, and your camping stove is ready to use.
Tips for using a propane camp stove
Most of us are used to using electrical stovetops in our homes, so using a propane camping stove might be a bit unfamiliar. That’s why we’ve put together some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your camping stove and to stay safe while doing it.
- Propane stoves are for outdoor use only. You should never set up your camp stove inside your tent, no matter how much you’re tempted by the rain. Propane gas stoves need to be used in a well-ventilated area, using one inside a tent carries too high a risk of fire. If the weather is causing you problems, set up a tarp high above the stove’s burners.
- Protect your burners from the wind. Usually, cooking inside means there’s no wind to worry about, which could blow out the flames of a gas stove. Camp chefs must rise to this additional challenge to make sure their stove stays hot and cooking. An easy trick to block the wind is to create a ring out of aluminum foil, with tall flat sides. You can place this around your stove’s burner, under the cooking grate, and this will shield the flame from wind. It also helps center the heat of your burner so food will cook more evenly.
- Store fuel canisters properly. Small propane canisters are under very high pressure, and certain conditions could cause them to explode. This is a serious safety risk, but you can lessen it by storing your fuel canisters properly. Make sure propane bottles are always stored upright, in a well-ventilated area, They should be kept far away from any open flame, such as your stove or campfire, at all times.
- Never leave your stove unattended. You should never leave a propane camping stove lit while you aren’t watching, especially if you’re camping with children nearby. Keep flammable materials well away to prevent accidental fires.
- Set up your camp stove on a proper surface. You should never sit your stove directly on the ground or another flat surface, air needs to circulate around the whole stove when cooking to prevent fire hazards. Most stoves come with a stand that they should be set on, so make use of this equipment. In the winter, never put your camping stove on ice, snow, or frozen earth. As the metal heats up, your camp stove could melt what it’s set on and become unstable and topple.
There’s no better way to brew your morning coffee than using a camp sotve in the wild.
Final Verdict:
Propane camping stoves are the most popular way to cook at the campsite, they’re affordable, convenient, and efficient. Now you know how to attach a propane tank to a camping stove, you’re ready to cook up some backcountry delicacies. We’ve explained why camping stoves might be a more suitable choice than campfires, due to their speedy set up and put away. Having a camp stove you brought along yourself is much more reliable than hoping you’ll find enough firewood to fuel a campfire.
Butane and propane gas are both good choices for fueling your gas burner stove, with butane being slightly more efficient. However, we recommend propane as it’s much more widely available, with refillable bottles and extra fuel much easier to locate than with butane. Also, butane doesn’t work in colder temperatures, so why not make the choice you know will function all year round?
Propane camping stoves create a lot of waste when using disposable gas canisters, but car campers and even backpackers can use a much more eco-friendly propane bottle. These bottles can be found in 1lb or 5lb sizes, and 2lb propane tanks are available for refilling smaller bottles. If you employ a more sustainable approach to camping, including the fuel for your camp stove, you won’t only be making the right choice for the planet. Using refillable bottles is actually a great way to save money; now you can put it towards more new camping gear!
Attaching your propane tank to your camping stove should go by like a breeze, just follow our simple instructions. Make sure to use a soapy solution to check for leaks, and then you can continue safely with your camping trip.
Bonus tip: Watch this video for some tips on cleaning your camp stove to make it more effective!
Camping Gear Reviews & Guides
Spring Camping Must Haves: BougeRV’s CR Pro 30 and Portable Fridge Innovation
As the seasons change from cold to the warmth of spring, the great outdoors beckon us to adventure once again. The BougeRV CR Pro 30 is here for those eager to embrace the beauty and serenity of nature through camping. This portable refrigerator, with its cutting-edge features, ensures that your camping experience is not only enjoyable but also convenient and efficient.
The CR Pro 30 brings a generous storage box designed to perfectly accommodate a portable power station and accessories, ensuring your gadgets stay charged and ready for use. This thoughtful design eliminates the worry of misplaced cords and extends the usage time of the refrigerator, making it an indispensable tool for your camping adventures.
With four safety tie-down points, the refrigerator can be securely fastened to your car, ensuring stability and safety even on the bumpiest roads–providing you and your family with peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the journey and the beauty around you.
Energy efficiency is at the heart of the CR Pro 30, featuring Max and Eco usage modes that adapt to your needs while conserving power. The upgraded compressor technology allows for significant energy savings, making it an eco-friendly choice for the environmentally conscious camper. An added interior LED light enhances convenience, allowing for easy access to your refreshments even in the dead of night.
One of the standout features of the CR Pro 30 is its low noise level while operating. Designed to ensure quiet sleep after a long day of driving or exploring, this refrigerator operates at a mere 45dB. Combined with its shock-proof design, the CR Pro 30 can handle the challenges of off-road adventures without compromising on performance or comfort. The majestic nights will stay that way–majestic and serene, just as nature intended.
BougeRV stands behind the quality and reliability of the CR Pro 30 with a robust 2-year warranty, offering hassle-free after-sales service. Their commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that any questions or concerns about the product are promptly addressed, providing a worry-free camping experience.
The package includes a removable partition (exclusive to the 30QT model), a DC power cord, a 50cm DC charging cord for the portable battery, an AC power cord, and a user manual. Everything you need to embark on your next outdoor adventure is thoughtfully provided, making the BougeRV CR Pro 30 a must-have for anyone looking to explore the wonders of camping with convenience, safety, and efficiency.
So, as you prepare for your spring camping trips, make the BougeRV CR Pro 30 your reliable partner on the adventure. And what’s best, it currently is available for only $319.99 now both on BougeRV’s website and Amazon.
There’s no better way to unwind and recharge than by spending some time in the great outdoors. From shimmering lakes and majestic mountains to energizing waterfalls and lush forests, nature is replete with spectacular scenery and a range of activities to suit every outdoor enthusiast.
Fall asleep under a blanket of stars, and gather around a glowing fireplace at night. Switch your alarm off and wake up with the sunrise and the melodious sound of birds chirping above you. Camping is one of the best ways to connect with nature and to also benefit your mental health and wellbeing. If you’re feeling the call of the wilderness, take inspiration from the four different types of camping listed below.
Tent Camping
A favorite for many families, this is the image that is typically associated with camping. Relatively simple to set up, all that’s needed is a sturdy tent, a snug sleeping bag, and somewhere to call home for the night. The options are limitless and include designated campsites, remote stretches of beach, or secluded spots in forests. Gather your firewood and cook your own meals and enjoy some of the bare necessities of life.
Car Camping
The perfect style of camping for newbies, car camping offers somewhere relatively warm and sheltered to spend the night and enjoy the wonders of Mother Nature from the comfort of your own car.
With the added mobility offered, this is the ideal way to camp when going on a long road trip, allowing you to pitch up at a national park or designated campsite while also taking advantage of the amenities offered, such as toilets and showers. Before setting off on your camping adventure, it’s important to check your car insurance coverage is up-to-date and provides adequate protection for your journey.
RV/Van Camping
The inspiration for van life, RV/Van camping is a great way to enjoy the wonders of the natural world while enjoying the freedom and flexibility of the open road. With modern conveniences ranging from basic kitchenettes and refrigerators at one end to standing showers and heated floors at the other, this style of camping can offer a more luxurious experience compared to simpler ways of being in nature.
With shelter from adverse weather conditions and enough space to stock up on some home comforts, RV/Van camping is the ideal way to sample the camping experience for the first time as well as enjoy an extended trip in the great outdoors.
Survival Camping
On the more extreme end of the spectrum, lies survival camping. Unlike RV/Van camping, this is a return to basics, without a creature comfort in sight. For those wanting to hone their survival skills, this style of camping will see you dropped off at some remote location, tasked with the job of finding your way to a designated spot, or simply surviving until you are picked up.
Armed with only your wits and a few essentials such as a flashlight and first aid kit, you will have to fish, forage and fend for yourself in the wilderness and rely on yourself to survive. While not for the faint-hearted, survival camping can certainly be a thrill for experienced campers and outdoor experts.
Use these ideas to choose a camping experience that’s right for you.
Love camping with a large group of friends or family members? Then you’re going to need a spacious shelter!
To help you navigate the market, we’ve created the following comprehensive Best 10-Person Tent overview. In this review, we’ve highlighted the best-value options currently available on the market.
Explore the top-rated 10-person tents below – discover the perfect fit for your upcoming camping trips!
In a hurry? Here’s the test winner after 10 hours of research:
[amazon table=”18048″]
10 Best 10-Person Tents – Overview
Here’s an overview of the best 10-person tents (keep scrolling for detailed breakdowns with pros and cons for each of your options):
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1. Outdoor Products 10-Person Instant Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B088C5QF7G”]
This tent is equipped with handy storage pockets that allow you to keep your personal belongings neatly organized.
Extended Eave Technology
The 10-Person Instant Cabin Tent by Outdoor Products is well-ventilated thanks to dual ground vents and mesh windows that work together to create ample cross ventilation throughout the tent.
This tent comes with a water-resistant, particle-cover rainfly, plus a tub floor to keep moisture out. This large cabin tent also features ‘Extended Eave Technology’. This means the automatically extended eaves keep the tent fly away from the tent’s body. Not only does this boost breathability, but it also allows you to keep the windows open in light rain.
Other Reading: Best Gazebo for Camping
PROS
- Instant setup in just 2 minutes
- Removable room divider included
- Dual ground vents
- Mesh windows for proper airflow
- Water-resistant rainfly included
- Extended Eave Technology
- Carry bag included
- Great value-for-money
- Integrated storage pockets
- Can fit 2 queen-size air beds
CONS
- Heavy-weight
- Not the most portable
- Not the highest quality standard
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2. UNP 10-Person Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B08VW17813″]
The UNP 10-person camping tent measures 18ft x 9ft x78in. In total, it provides a whopping 162 square feet of space and can fit up to 10 sleeping bags (or 3 queen air mattresses if comfort is your main priority). Furthermore, this is a four-season tent making it a suitable option for camping regardless of the conditions.
This extra-large tent is made from 100% polyester and weighs 23 pounds when fully packed into its carrying bag. It makes use of fiberglass poles and hooks for maximum sturdiness and only takes roughly five minutes to set up.
The spacious interior of this tent features a mesh mosquito repellent roof that allows for stargazing while keeping mosquitoes and other annoying insects out.
A spacious Gear Loft comes built-in that is suitable for storing and air-drying clothes. This tent also features mesh pockets that are great for keeping personal belongings and other necessities organized.
Including an electrical access port, this tent allows you to extend a cord from your devices to an outside power source. To ensure you stay in one place, this tent is secured via Patented Foot Sleeves that hold the included FRP poles securely in place even during the toughest weather conditions. Plus, these handy foot sleeves make setup a breeze.
The UNP 10-person camping tent combines comfort and privacy thanks to an easily accessible doorway complete with two-way zippers.
PROS
- Big enough for 3 Queen air mattresses
- Mesh storage pockets
- Patented Foot sleeves to keep poles from slipping
- Perfect for all four seasons
- Electrical access ports
CONS
- Can only be separated into 2 rooms
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3. CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B07NM17LVD”]
The CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent measures 14ft x 10ft, with a center height of 86″. It includes an expandable, zippered carry bag and packs down to 28.5″ x 10″ X 10″. Weighing in at 35.5 lbs, this tent is quite hefty compared to similar options on my list.
This quality camping tent can comfortably accommodate up to 10 adult-sized sleeping bags or 2 queen-sized air mattresses. Note: due to its straight wall design, this is one queen-sized airbed less than the previous Ozark Trail XL Family Tent.
This family tent features one large D-style door for easy access. Personally, I kind of wished each compartment had a separate entry-point for additional privacy.
Advanced Venting System
The CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent’s advanced ventilation system makes use of adjustable vents to draw in cool air from the ground. Simultaneously, warm air is recycled outward via its large mesh ceiling.
The CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent also includes a gear loft with a lantern hook, ample storage pockets, and an electrical cord access port.
As far as design is concerned, this tent is made from premium materials, including durable 68D polyester tent fabric, a tough PE floor, and fiberglass tent poles. This tent also makes use of a removable water-resistant rainfly to ensure you stay dry. Furthermore, the seams of this tent are thermally heat-sealed to keep water and condensation out.
PROS
- Vertical-walled silhouette
- Ample 86″ center height
- 14 x 10 feet – very spacious
- Advanced Venting System
- Room divider
- Two entry doors
- A lantern hook, gear loft, and storage pockets
- An electrical cord access point
- Thermally heat-sealed seams
CONS
- Setup can take a bit longer
- Only 2-room tent, not 3-room
- Quite heavy (35.5 lbs)
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4. Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Outdoor Tent
[amazon box=”B001TS8Q94″]
This 3-season tent comes equipped with Coleman’s patented WeatherTec System which is a proprietary series of interworking features designed to keep bad weather where it belongs – outside.
If you’re looking for a spacious, budget-friendly family camping tent that’s able to easily withstand the elements, then the Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Outdoor Tent could be just what you’re looking for.
The Coleman WeatherMaster Outdoor Tent measures 17ft x 9ft with a center height of 76″. Although it’s less roomy, height-wise, compared to the CORE 10 Person Straight Wall Cabin Tent, it still offers ample headroom for most campers.
The Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Tent can comfortably accommodate up to 10 adult-sized sleeping bags or 3 queen size air beds. It features a hinged door at the front and a zippered door at the back for easy access.
When it’s time to head home, the Coleman WeatherMaster Outdoor Tent packs down into its included carry bag – listed as 30.3″ x 10.2″ x 10.2″. This tent weighs approximately 31 pounds when packed away.
Panoramic views
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, family camping tent with plenty of weather-resistant features, then the Coleman WeatherMaster Outdoor Tent may be your best bet.
Setting up this tent is extremely simple thanks to a color-coded pole system and continuous pole sleeve design. Other perks include large, angled windows that allow for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, and multiple storage pockets to keep your belongings neatly organized.
Overall, the Coleman WeatherMaster Outdoor Tent offers plenty of value considering its affordable pricing. For this reason, it’s one of the best 10-person camping tents at the lower end of the price spectrum.
PROS
- Quick setup with color-coded pole construction
- Hinged door for easy access
- Can fit 3 queen air beds
- 2 entry points
- Room dividers for privacy
- WeatherTec system
- Waterproof floor and zipper cuffs
- Fully-taped seams on durable taffeta rainfly
- Large angled windows for panoramic views
CONS
- Less generous in headroom
- Setup can be a bit tricky
- WeatherTec system can still fail in heavy downpours
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5. HIKERGARDEN 10-person camping tent
The HIKERGARDEN tent is waterproof, wind-proof, and provides all of the ventilation needed to comfortably house 10 people. Requiring only 10 minutes to set up, this tent measures 168 x 132 x 74 inches when fully erect.
This tent can comfortably accommodate up to 10 sleeping bags. It’s very spacious and offers plenty of privacy thanks to a dividing curtain.
The tent also features electrical access ports so you can run a cord from the inside of the tent to an exterior power source. Furthermore, there are mesh gear pockets so you can keep your small trinkets organized.
When properly set up, the HIKERGARDEN tent is comfortable, safe, and provides privacy and protection, even when camping in large groups.
PROS
- Waterproof and wind-resistant
- Mesh door and windows
- Carrying bag for storage and transport
- Presence of electrical access ports and mesh pockets
CONS
- Might take a while to set up
- Can only be divided into two
- Rain fly only opens from outside
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6. Tahoe Gear Olympia 10-Person Family Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B07BV5PDSD”]
The Tahoe Gear Olympia 10-Person Family Camping Tent measures 18ft x 10.5ft in floor space (216″ x 126″) and has a center height of 84″ – this is ample headroom even for taller campers.
This large tent is surprisingly lightweight, especially compared to other 10-person camping tents. The total packing weight of the Tahoe Gear Olympia is approximately 23 lbs.
The roomy interior space of the Tahoe Gear Olympia can comfortably accommodate up to 10 adult sleeping bags or 2 queen air mattresses. A minor con is that this tent does not include a room divider, meaning privacy is a bit limited.
Great ventilation options
What the Tahoe Gear Olympia 10-Person Family Camping Tent lacks in privacy, it more than makes up for in quality and construction. This tent features a durable, waterproof polyester rainfly with taped seams and a polyethylene binding floor with water-resistant properties. In addition, the Tahoe Gear Olympia is also well-ventilated, thanks to a mesh roof and ground vents that ensure proper airflow.
This tall 10-person tent also includes an electrical cord access point, an awning over the front door, and a carry bag. It also comes with a 1-year product warranty, ensuring that if you encounter any manufacturing defects, you can get a refund or a replacement (subject to conditions).
Aside from the lack of a room divider, another minor con is that the Tahoe Gear Olympia 10-Person Family Camping Tent only has 1 door. This makes entering and exiting slightly less convenient, especially when nature calls in the middle of the night and you have to crawl over your camping buddies. That said, it’s not a major issue. Still, it’s something to keep in mind if you plan on packing the tent to full capacity with 10 campers…
PROS
- Pin-and-ring-system setup
- Mid-budget
- Large floor space
- Rainfly included
- Mesh ceiling and ground vents for proper ventilation
- Can fit 2 queen-sized air mattresses
- Electrical cord access port
- 84″ center height ideal for taller campers
- Lightweight
- Included carry bag
CONS
- Only 1 entry door
- No room dividers
- Fiberglass frame may damage in strong winds
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7. Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B01LYK6SZV”]
Another best-selling tent by Ozark Trail is the 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent. Not only does this tent feature a super easy setup that can be completed in minutes, but it also comes with ‘Dark Rest’ technology that allows you to easily customize the interior illumination. The result: a better night’s sleep, and a tent that stays cooler, longer.
The steel-framed Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent is very easy to pitch, with no assembly required. Its silhouette features poles that come pre-attached to the tent shell. According to the manufacturer, setup is possible in just 2 minutes, thanks to its instant, pre-assembled construction.
Dark Rest Technology
Though its roomy interior and easy assembly are great perks, the real attraction of this 10-person tent by Ozark Trail is its Dark Rest Technology. Dark Rest refers to this tent’s special technology that’s designed to block sunlight. The silhouette of the tent features multiple skylights with interior ceiling panels. These panels allow you to easily customize the amount of sunlight inside of the tent and allow you to block out the light completely when it’s time for bed. The ceiling panels on the skylights can also be fully rolled back, making this a great tent for stargazing. If you’re a sleeper that’s sensitive to light, or you simply want a tent that stays cooler, longer, this Dark Rest technology may be the answer to your prayers.
Other pros of the Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent include integrated storage pockets and a hanging gear organizer that enables you to keep your camping gear neatly organized and off the ground.
The Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent also comes with an electrical cord access port, tent stakes, and a carry bag. This tent is furthermore covered by a 6-month product warranty – always a plus.
Although the Ozark Trail Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent isn’t the cheapest 10-person tent on the market, considering its fantastic design quality and unique Dark Rest technology, it’s no doubt worth the investment for campers that want the best night’s sleep possible…
PROS
- Instant easy setup, no assembly required
- Excellent quality standard
- Steel frame more durable than fiberglass
- Tent stays cooler, longer
- Rainfly included
- Dark Rest technology
- Great for stargazing
- Multiple mesh windows for great ventilation
- Electrical cord access port
- Removable room divider
- Includes tent stakes
- Included carry bag
CONS
- Expensive
- Not lightweight
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8. Columbia Mammoth Creek 10-Person Tent
[amazon box=”B0882HHBSH”]
If you’re looking for a 10-person tent that maximizes interior space, then the Mammoth Creek model by Columbia may be just what you’re after.
The Columbia Mammoth Creek 10 Person Tent measures 14ft x 10ft (168″ x 120″) and offers 78″ of center height. This spacious tent can fit up to 10 adult sleeping bags or 2 queen-size air mattresses.
This 10-person tent features large pull-out windows that can be kept fully open for maximum airflow on warm days. Further air circulation is encouraged via an adjustable ground vent and no-see-um mesh panels. During bad weather conditions, the waterproof polyester flooring and rainfly work together to keep you dry and sheltered.
Omni-Shield coated fabric
The Columbia Mammoth Creek 10 Person Tent comes with Omni-Shield coated fabric. This patented type of water-resistant fabric dries 3-5 times faster than regular, untreated polyester. Not only does it dry quicker, but it also gets less weighed down when wet – reducing the strain and pull on the tent’s frame in heavy rain.
Although the product description on Amazon lists the shipping weight at an ultralight 4 pounds, this is an error. According to Amazon reviews, the total packing weight of this backpacking tent is approximately 22 lbs; this is still relatively lightweight for a tent this size.
A minor con is that Columbia Mammoth Creek 10 Person Tent isn’t an instant setup tent, meaning you will have to spend more time on assembly than the other, easy setup models in this overview.
Furthermore, some reviewers mentioned a lack of clear setup instructions. That said, once you’ve figured out which part goes where, the setup will be quicker the second time around.
PROS
- Vertical wall silhouette
- Maximum interior space
- Omni-Shield waterproof fabric
- No-see-um mesh
- Room divider for privacy
- Large pull-out windows
- Adjustable ground vent for air circulation
- Can fit 2 queen-size air beds
CONS
- Not the quickest in setup
- Some reviewers mention a lack of clear set-up instructions
- A discrepancy in packing weight in the product listing
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9. NTK Arizona 10-person Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B00NOA1X36″]
The NTK Arizona camping tent is made from heavy-duty polyester and is perfect for 3 seasons. This durable tent can comfortably house up to 10 sleeping bags (or 3 double air mattresses and one single). NTK once again provides a quality product designed to enhance any outdoor excursion.
One of the best family tents out there, This NTK tent also features an ultra-slim polyester micro-mesh material that acts as a means of protection from mosquitoes and other bugs while ensuring the tent stays thoroughly ventilated.
Featuring a Double layer 190T polyester laminated water column, heat-welded PU sealed seams, and UV protection, this tent provides you with ample protection against the elements and ensures you get the comfort that you deserve. Even its large D-style doors are covered with mosquito mesh so you get great views and ventilation, minus the insects.
PROS
- Comes with a stuff bag for easy storage and transport
- Offers protection against all elements
- Mosquito mesh
- High-quality floor
CONS
- The material of the tent floor is quite prone to wear and tear
- Not the most durable tent on the market
- Only partial-coverage rainfly
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10. Outbound Lightweight Pop up Family Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B07WVFPFD7″]
If your main priority is to find a 10-person tent that’s lightweight (12 lbs) and easy to carry, this model by Outbound is a fantastic match. Plus, not only is it lightweight, but it’s also super easy to set up – enabling you to pitch it within minutes. The trade-off is that the tent is not the most heavy-duty and durable, but for those that plan to carry their tent over longer distances, it’s worth the compromise.
The Outbound Lightweight Pop up Family Camping Tent measures 14ft x 10ft (168″ x 120″). This is enough room to accommodate 10 regular-sized adult sleeping bags or 2 queen-size air beds. This tent provides campers with 76 inches of standing center height. The family camping tent by Outbound comes with an ultralight fiberglass frame system, which is part of the reason it only weighs 12 lbs in total packing weight.
This roomy tent includes a partial-cover rain fly with a 600mm waterproof rating. Once again: this is not the most heavy-duty tent on the market, and a waterproof rating of 600mm won’t be enough to keep you fully dry in heavy rain. That being said, for fair weather conditions in the summertime, it should offer sufficient shelter to keep you comfy and secure. The rainfly includes leakproof seams, whilst the polyester tub floor offers adequate protection against wet undergrounds.
Includes all the essentials
It’s not the most durable tent on the market, nor is it equipped for extreme weather conditions; however, when it comes to portability and lightweight appeal, the Outbound Lightweight Pop up Tent is one of the best family tents you’ll find. Plus, the price tag is equally lightweight compared to other tents on this overview making it a budget-friendly backpacker’s favorite!
PROS
- Very lightweight (12 lbs)
- Affordable and great value-for-money
- Easy and quick setup
- Large D-shaped door with zippered windows
- Mesh ceiling panels for proper airflow
- Mesh storage pockets
- Very portable and suited for backpacking
- Includes tent stakes
- Includes guy lines
- Includes zippered carry bag
- Rainfly included
- Carry bag included
CONS
- Fiberglass frame may shatter in heavy winds
- Rainfly only has a 600mm waterproof rating
- Not recommended for bad weather conditions
- No room dividers
- Only one entry-point
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Verdict
Every product in this Best 10-Person Tent Overview has its own unique appeal. Which tent ranks the best really depends on the type of camper you are. For example, family campers that aren’t concerned about privacy may be satisfied with a single-door design, such as the Wenzel Big Basin. However, campers who travel with friends and value privacy as a key priority may wish to have easy access to their compartment, without having to disturb others. In this case, the 10-Person Ozark Trail Family Cabin Tent, which features three separate entry points, could be a better match.
These 10-person camping tents also vary in shape and size. If you prefer maximum headroom and maneuverability throughout the entire tent, then straight-walled options such as the CORE Straight Wall Cabin Tent, the Columbia Mammoth Creek Camping Tent, or the Outdoor Products 10-Person Instant Cabin Tent could be a perfect fit. Then again, perhaps your key priority is protection against the elements. In this case, the Coleman WeatherMaster with its special WeatherTec system could be the tent for you. Furthermore, if you want a tent that stays cooler, longer – consider the Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent, which blocks out sunlight to help you get a better night’s sleep…
There’s no need to stress – I can promise you one thing: every 10-person tent on this overview is a great choice; you honestly can’t go wrong with any of them. No matter which style you choose, you have my word, they’ll all keep you comfortable, sheltered, and cozy! All you need to do is determine which style matches your needs best – the tent will take care of the rest.
Winner
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Best 10-Person Tents – Buying Guide
When shopping for the Best 10-Person Tent for your camping needs, there are several buying factors to take into consideration. By determining which factors are most important to you, you can easily create a checklist to find your perfect fit. These are the most important buying factors to consider when shopping for large family tents:
Size, layout, and silhouette
10-Person tents come in all shapes and sizes. Though they can all accommodate 10 regular-sized adult sleeping bags, some are roomier than others. For example, a 10-person tent with a 14ft x 10ft footprint will fit 10 sleeping bags, but only 2 queen-size air beds. Whilst a 10-person tent with a 20ft x 10ft footprint can easily fit 3 queen-sized air beds. This may sound pretty logical, but it’s worth repeating that just because a tent is listed as ’10-person’, doesn’t mean it can comfortably accommodate 10 campers and their gear. That is why we recommend you to always double-check the floor space of a tent, ensuring it has enough room for your camping requirements.
Additionally, the tent’s center height and shape are also factors to consider. Some tents have a 74″ center height, whilst others reach up to 84″. Those extra 10 inches can make a big difference to your comfort, especially for taller campers. When it comes to the shape/silhouette, vertical-walled tents offer more interior space than a dome tent – maximizing on headroom to move around.
Privacy
If you want the option to enjoy some privacy from your friends and/or kids, choose a tent that includes a room divider. You may assume that all large 10-person tents come with some type of room divider, but this is not the case. Some tents only have one big main cabin that cannot be separated in the different rooms. Whilst other tents come with multiple room dividers, allowing you to instantly turn them into 2-room or 3-room tents. Creating your makeshift room divider is quite the hassle, so save yourself the effort, and simply choose a tent that includes room dividers instead if privacy is a priority.
Doors and windows
Another thing to consider is whether you want a tent with multiple doors, or if a single-door tent will do. For smaller, 4-person or 6-person tents a single entry point may be adequate, but when camping with a big group in one tent, the more doors, the easier is it to exit and enter the tent. If you don’t want to crawl over your camping buddies in the middle of the night, when nature calls, consider a tent with a front and back-entry point: as this will make your camping experience a whole lot smoother.
Also, take into consideration what type of windows you prefer. Some tents come with larger, pull-out mesh windows, whilst others feature zippered windows integrated into the doors. If you often go camping in the summertime and warm conditions, consider a tent with multiple mesh windows on all sides to enable proper ventilation and airflow. If you often find yourself in wet and rainy surroundings, ensure the tent comes with zippered and waterproof windows to prevent the interior from getting soggy. The type of windows and number of windows may not be your biggest priority, but it’s something to take into account when browsing for family camping tents.
Weather Resistance
Not every 10-person tent is fully able to keep sheltered and dry, even on bad weather days. Though every tent on this list offers some degree of weather protection, some are more capable of dealing with heavy rains and bad weather conditions than others. If you’re looking for a 3-season tent that holds up well in all types of weather, make sure it has enough weather-resistant design elements to battle the elements. For example:
Staying waterproof
Always choose a tent that comes with a rainfly. Secondly, check if the included rainfly is made of quality materials and what its waterproof rating is. The waterproof rating (also known as the hydrostatic rating) refers to how much water the fabric can handle before moisture starts seeping through. For example, a rainfly fabric with a waterproof rating of 500mm is only moderately water-resistant, whilst a rainfly with a 1500mm rating is far more capable of handling heavy rain. As a general rule of thumb: the higher the waterproof rating, the better.
Sealed, welded, and taped seams
A 10-person tent’s weather-resistance also depends on the type of seams. Even if the rainfly is 100% waterproof, the seams of the tent can still let water in and cause leakage. That is why we’d recommend picking a tent that comes with factory-sealed, taped, or welded seams. You can also waterproof/seal the seams of the tent yourself, but this can be quite the hassle. If you want to save yourself the annoyance of having to waterproof a tent at home, choose a silhouette that comes with factory-sealed, welded, and/or taped seams instead.
Material
Picking the right type of materials will ensure you get the most enjoyment out of a tent. Which material is ‘the best’ depends on where, and when, you plan to use the tent. For example, for backpacking trips or family hiking adventures, a tent frame made of lightweight materials is ‘best’. Lightweight material options include fiberglass, aluminum, and plastic. That said, these ultralight materials compromise on durability and stability. Fiberglass may shatter under pressure, whilst aluminum may bend. Alternatives are heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel. The advantage is that steel is more durable, heavy-duty, and wear-resistant than fiberglass and aluminum. However, it also is heavier – and often more expensive – which are also cons to take into consideration…
For the tent’s shell, the most commonly used materials are nylon and polyester. Nylon and polyester are quite similar in standard and performance. That said, there are gradations in quality – which is why we’d advise picking first-class nylon or polyester shell. There are two ways to check a fabric’s quality standard. First, if a fabric is listed as ‘ripstop’, it means its more tear-resistance and less prone to punctures. Second, check the product’s reviews, because other campers are a great way to check if the tent’s materials are capable of keeping you dry and comfy. If you don’t want to bother checking hundreds of Amazon reviews, use our Best 10-Person Tent Overview, as our experts have already researched for you!
Ease of setup
One of the leading buying factors for campers is often the ease of setup. Whilst some 10-person tents only take minutes to assemble, other styles can quickly set you back an hour (or more). How easy setup will be, depends on the type of frame and construction. For a lightning-fast setup, an instant tent is a way to go. An instant tent comes with part of the frame (or the entire frame) pre-assembled, allowing for nearly instant setup. Whilst standard camping tents come with separate tentpoles, instant tents often feature pre-attached poles. This helps you save time (and frustration) when pitching the tent. You simply need to unfold and/or extend an instant tent’s frame and let the parts slide/click into place.
Though instant tents are great, there’s nothing wrong with standard dome tent and/or cabin tents that do require some type of assembly. Especially not if you plan to camp at the same spot multiple nights in a row, as you’ll only need to set up once. That said, it is indeed something to consider, as we know a hassle-free and quick setup is something many campers look for when buying a new tent…
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Samantha Bos
Samantha is an avid outdoor enthusiast who loves exploring the great unknown. She’s traveled all across the globe to sample nature’s delights. And her travels have taken her to all corners of the world: from hiking the famous Inca Trail in Peru to ice-hiking on glaciers in Alaska.
Besides hiking, Samantha likes to challenge herself with all kinds of outdoor activities. She doesn’t shy away from testing her limits. For example, navigating Grade 5 rapids whilst whitewater rafting in New Zealand, and avoiding close-encounters with bird-eating spiders and poisonous plants in the Australian rainforest. Currently based in Manhattan, New York, she’s traded in the real jungle for an urban jungle. But she tries to get out and explore nature in the surrounding Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Harriman State Park areas as often as she can.
She shares her knowledge of hiking, backpacking, and outdoor activities in handy ‘Best of’ overviews. Bundling the best-value, top-rated products that will no doubt make every reader a ‘happy camper’.
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