Camping Gear Reviews & Guides

How to Set Up a Canopy Tent

Published

4 years ago

March 16, 2020

If you regularly do anything outdoors then you probably know how great it is to have an instant canopy tent setup. These little open-air shelters are great for the beach, tailgating, barbecues, camping or anywhere else you need a little respite from the elements. They are built to be fairly easy to set up and take down but the reality isn’t always that simple.

Larger canopies require a bit more work and if you are setting one up while camping the different terrains and environments you might encounter can present certain challenges. Here we will dive into all the different ways to set up a canopy tent.

Some white canopies and a blue cloudy sky.

There are many different tent types, even among canopy tents.

A variety of canopies

For most of us, the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions a canopy tent is the pop-up structures that you see at beaches and college tailgates. These are only one kind of canopy tent though. In addition to pop-up shade canopy tents, you will also find frame tents, pole tents, and even custom tents. There are common features to all of them that make them canopy tents though.

They all provide a temporary shelter that can be collapsed into something portable. Sizes typically range from five feet by five feet all the way up to ten by twenty feet. The frame is typically made of aluminum, steel, or stainless steel while the canopy top itself is often made from polyester fabric. When the frame and top are fully constructed the canopy tent is open on all four sides. There are attachments that can be added on which act as walls when needed. Regardless of the base construction, all canopy tents have these things in common.

Pop-up canopy tents are the most recognizable and easy to set up. The gazebo-style aluminum or steel frame is built as a single collapsible design that you can simply unfold and click into position. You then attach the canopy top to that frame. These smaller pop-up tents usually have lighter weight canopies than other designs and are meant for more temporary endeavors. These canopy tents are also the lightest and most portable which usually makes them the best for camping.

Frame tents and pole tents are both versions of the canopy tent that are meant to be more heavy-duty, sturdy, and long-lasting. Frame tents are built with a sturdy aluminum frame that takes a little longer to set-up than a pop-up canopy. Once it is in place you can leave a frame tent in use for longer. Pole tents are also a long term structure and these are reminiscent of circus tents. Large central poles and strong tie-downs help give this canopy tent its structure. This style of tent is meant to cover the largest area so it is best for big events where you need lots of covered space.

In addition to all of this, you will sometimes encounter customized canopy tents. These tents are built to suit particular needs so their frames and canopy covers will be unique in shape and style. Custom tents come with custom instructions so we won’t be covering those here. The other types will be covered though.

Setting up a pop-up canopy tent

A pop-up canopy tent is the easiest and quickest type of canopy tent you can set up. They are basically ready to go out of the box or carry bag they came in. Setting up a portable canopy for the first time can be daunting but it is fairly easy. Ideally, when you set one up you have someone to help you but you can also do it by yourself.

To start you grab the two middle crossbars on one side of the tent. If someone is there to help you they can grab the crossbars on the opposite side from you. Now, being careful not to pinch your fingers just pull the bars open as you walk backward. This will cause the tent frame to open up.

With two people this should open the frame almost all the way. If you are by yourself then you will want to go to each side of the frame and pull open the middle crossbars. Next, you should go to each corner and pull open the crossbars there. Finally, crawl under the frame to the middle and push up on the center of the frame, this will help push everything into the right position Once the frame is as spread out as you can get it you then go to each corner, grab the upper piece that slides up and down the leg and snap it into place where you want it. You might have to use little pegs and slide them into holes on the legs to hold everything in place.

With most pop-up canopy tents the canopy cover will already be in place. If it isn’t you might need to loosen the frame some, attach the canopy over the top, and then snap everything back into place. Make sure the canopy is fitted snugly and looks right. Once all of that is done all you have to do now is step on the base plate of each leg, raise it to the height you want, and lock it in place. Voila, you have a canopy tent set-up.

To finish everything off properly you might want to add weights, sandbags, or tent stakes to each of the legs so the canopy doesn’t blow away in windy weather. Also, make sure you double-check that everything is properly snapped into place and that the canopy is tied, uses velcro or is attached in some other way to the frame. If you expect heavy winds or rain you can also purchase sidewalls that attach to the frame and weatherproof the interior a little better.

Tackling a frame tent

Installing a larger and more permanent canopy frame tent will require more people, more time, and more patience. Frame tents usually come with instructions that you will need to follow. You begin by building the frame where the canopy will attach. To do this you will need to lay out all the required parts per the instructions. Construction varies from model to model but usually, there are one or more multi-channel connection pieces as part of the roof structure. Start with these pieces.

As you connect the tent poles to the protrusions of the multichannel piece you will notice there are two holes on each protrusion. The holes closest to the top are for alignment while the holes closer to the bottom are to hold the poles together. With each connection you will insert a pin in the upper alignment hole, slide the pole on the protrusion, place a pin in the connecting hole, and then remove the pin from the upper alignment hole. This ensures that all the pieces are connected in the same way.

When building the upper section of a canopy frame tent you should attach all the poles to the center multichannel piece first. If there is more than one multichannel piece in the upper section then connect all the poles to each piece first before connecting them to each other. Once the center multi-channel pieces are all connected you can connect the perimeter pieces. These also work with alignment holes and connection holes so be sure to follow that. Once you work with the pieces for a little bit all the connections will become more apparent and easier to understand.

When constructing the perimeter of the upper part of the frame the last piece you connect should be one of the corners and not a side piece. Once that final corner is in place you can go ahead and attach the anchoring tethers or cords to each corner so they are ready. Next comes the canopy. Spread it out somewhere clean and dry and then slide it over the top of the frame you just built. With the canopy top lined up correctly, you can strap it to the frame using the tethers on the underside of the canopy itself.

For the final stages, you attach the base plates to the bottom of each tent leg. At this point, before you go further you will need to check the wind. Even in light wind, the canopy top can blow away when raised. To prevent this you should raise the downwind side first meaning the wind should be blowing at you as you raise the canopy to add the legs. For larger tents, you must make sure you lift both corners of the tent together so you don’t introduce too much tension into the structure. Professionals use a tent jack for this and you can probably rent one if needed.

With both corners raised add the corner legs then repeat for the other side. With all four corners equipped with legs go around the tent adding the other legs where needed. Then, with the tent now standing, double-check that the canopy is fully strapped onto the frame correctly and that all pins are still in place. Finally, drive stakes in the ground about four feet from each pole and attach the anchoring tethers or cords to each stake. With the tethers and stakes attached and everything inspected once more your canopy frame tent is officially setup!

Pole tents bring up images of circuses and fairs but they are used for many different things.

Putting up a pole tent

Like a frame tent, setting up a pole tent is at least a two-man job. The final result will be a durable semi-permanent structure though. For a pole tent, you should start by outlining the perimeter of where your tent will be and then marking where each of the poles will go. From there you will go out four feet from each pole location and drive a stake into the ground. With the stakes in place unroll the canopy top and lay it out into its final position. It is recommended to use a drop cloth underneath the canopy top to keep clean and prevent tears.

With the canopy top and tent stakes in place, you can now attach your tethers. These work best as ratchet straps so you can loosen or tighten them as needed. If you have ratchet straps then go ahead and connect these tethers to both the canopy top and your stakes. Next, you can begin inserting the corner poles and tightening the tethers there. Canopy tops for pole tents should come with in-built grommets through which you will put the top of the tent pole.

Once the corner poles are in place you should assemble the center poles and insert them into their appropriate o-ring and brass grommet assemblies on the canopy top. It will take some time but eventually, you should have all center poles in their upright positions. Place a small piece of wood or a base plate under each one to help secure it. Once those are all set you can begin inserting the side poles. As you place these side poles you will also need to loosen and tighten the corner ratchet straps until everything is properly aligned. Once the corners are good you can then tighten the ratchet tethers of the side poles.

With each tent pole, you will also find a rope or string coming off the canopy top. This is called the jump rope and it should be tied to each tent pole to help secure the pole in place. At that point your canopy pole tent will be completely set up and ready to go. All you need to do now is double-check everything to make sure it is secure and then enjoy your canopy tent.

Keep an eye on the weather

Rain, wind, and especially lightning make setting up a canopy tent not only more difficult but also dangerous. The wind and rain can pull a poorly tethered canopy into the air and send it flying while any risk of lightning is significant because of all the conductive metal poles in the structure. In light wind and rain, you can still set up your canopy tent as long as you work slowly and methodically and pay attention to the wind direction.

You might also want to make use of tarps in these conditions to prevent the canopy top from being weighed down by the water before it is secured to the tent frame. Lightning poses a different problem altogether. If there is any risk of lightning then you should not be setting up or using a canopy tent. The best canopy top will be a high-quality waterproof and water-resistant outdoor-canopy that can withstand the elements.

Taking down the tent

For all the tent types you basically want to work in reverse order. You should undo the canopy straps from the tent frame first but leave two corners attached so the canopy doesn’t blow away. Next, you can slowly remove perimeter poles or center poles, then remove corner poles, and finally deconstruct the top section of the tent if applicable.

It is important to keep the canopy top as clean and dry as possible before putting it away. If the weather has been wet and rainy make sure to lay out the canopy top in a well ventilated open space to dry. You will want to check both sides of the canopy top for cleanliness, dryness, and tears. If everything appears to be good then you can roll everything up and store it for next time.

Canopy tents are versatile and found all over the place. It’s a useful skill to know how to set one up properly.

Final Verdict:

Canopy tents can be as simple as a pop-up beach canopy from amazon or as complicated as a larger frame tent or a pole tent. Regardless of the complexity, this type of tent is always an invaluable addition to any outdoor activities and is worth the effort once it is set up. For most campers, a regular pop-up canopy tent is more than sufficient. These tents are lightweight, durable enough, and the easiest to set up out of all the options available. Frame tents and pole tents, by comparison, are much heavier and much more complicated to set up.

These canopy tent types are better suited for outdoor events where you will need a more semi-permanent structure. They take more time to set up but once they are in place they can take a lot of abuse. Between the two a pole tent is generally considered the easier one to set-up but ultimately a frame tent is the most rigid.

Bonus tip: Watch how these professional tent installers put up a classic frame tent!

Camping Gear Reviews & Guides

Spring Camping Must Haves: BougeRV’s CR Pro 30 and Portable Fridge Innovation

Published

3 months ago

May 9, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

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.

Camping Gear Reviews & Guides

4 Different Types of Camping

Published

12 months ago

August 1, 2023

Caleb Cole

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.

Best in Class Reviews

The Best 10-Person Tents

Published

2 years ago

January 2, 2023

Samantha Bos

January 2, 2023/Samantha Bos Table of Contents

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.

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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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)

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

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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

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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’.