Camping Gear Reviews & Guides

How to Successfully Camp in the Back of a Truck

Published

5 years ago

August 4, 2019

Whether you’re doing it for a night or it’s been on your bucket list for years, camping in the back of a truck is one of the most liberating adventures you can experience. The freedom of going anywhere you please, sleeping wherever you park, and saving money at the same time is a taste of real independence that even the most cash-strapped can afford to realize.

After all, a road trip needn’t be expensive. In fact, camping in your pickup truck can be whatever you want it to be — fitted out with the latest gear and gadgets, or just some basic items, like a tarpaulin and sleeping bag. No matter if your needs are high or low maintenance, there’s a truck camping solution for everyone.

Perhaps your truck already feels like a second home and you’ve already thought about taking a nap in it. If you have everything but the kitchen sink stowed away somewhere, chances are your truck is ready to level up as a camper too. All it takes is a little planning ahead, a few camping essentials, and you’re good to go!

In this article, we’ll cover all the areas you need to consider to make your truck camper as comfortable and successful as possible. We’ll talk about:

Why truck camping is better than tent camping
How to set up your truck
All about canopies
Sleeping arrangement
Camper truck cooking
Staying safe
Camping tips & tricks
A final verdict on the pros/cons of truck camping

Why truck camping is better than tent camping

As a first time camper, you may find truck camping much easier and quicker to set up than tent camping. If you arrive at a camping site during the night or in adverse weather, setting up a tent is more trouble than it’s worth. With hardly any lighting and mud all around, you’ll probably end up wanting to go home after 10 minutes of grappling with poles and getting dirty.

Depending on the canopy you choose (we cover this in a later section), camping out the back of your truck offers more convenience than camping on the ground. Firstly, since you’re elevated from the ground, you’ll always remain dry and protected from heavier weather elements. Secondly, you won’t have to worry about finding a level surface or have to deal with uncomfortable rocks and stones. It’s also easier to maintain a clean interior, as sleeping on a higher level allows in much less dirt and dust.

Sleeping in your truck is also better if you’re sensitive to noise — the side panel of your truck is great for blocking out sounds that would otherwise wake you if you were closer to the ground. And for those who aren’t too fond of sharing the nights with small bugs and animals, sleeping in an elevated position minimizes those possibilities.

The only times when tent camping may be a better idea is if you’re planning to stay somewhere for longer or there is more than one person with you. As well as being able to fit more gear into your truck, you can leave your tent at the camping site without undoing your sleeping arrangement and go out driving for the day. If you’re constantly on the move, however, then truck camping is definitely quicker and easier.

Deciding how to setup your truck

Camping in the back of your truck or SUV is a great way to save money while exploring the outdoors.

Figuring out how to build out your truck bed into a suitable living space is the first and most important step for successful camping. Depending on the level of comfort you would like, or your DIY capabilities, you’ll want to work this out before your trip, rather than just leaving on the fly.

Of course, you can make like a truck driver and just sleep across the front seats, though this isn’t really a long term solution for camping. It can get very constricted in a truck with all the things you need to take with you, so planning room for sleep and storage space is essential.

If you’re a confident builder, you can construct a raised sleeping platform with just a few pieces of timber and have space underneath for storage, or you can organize shelves on the side and sleep in the middle. Otherwise, if DIY isn’t really your thing, you can just move your things (provided there aren’t too many) out of the way for when you want to sleep.

Canopies

If your truck is roofless at the back, then arranging a canopy is a must. Again, if you’re great at setting up tarp awnings, you can settle for this simple option, especially in the hotter months. In colder climes, this may not be adequate however and you’ll need to consider sturdier solutions.

Various things you’ll need to consider are:

Having enough headroom: A few inches extra over the cab of your truck can make all the difference. The extra headspace will help you move around things easier, change clothes quicker and generally improve maneuverability.

Protection against condensation: Getting a carpeted headliner is an ideal solution for protecting against condensation. It helps to absorb any moisture that accumulates throughout the night, especially rain. Another benefit of having a carpeted headliner is that is can be used to velcro things to it, such as lights and clips, etc.

Windoors or screened windows: If going for a camper shell or rooftop tent, you’ll need to decide whether you want solid windoors or screened windows. Solid windoors protect against the elements, while screened windows have better ventilation.

Power availability: Sure, you can power a cellphone in the cigarette lighter ports, but you may want to look into how to charge and run electronics from the back of your truck. This is especially important if you want to use your devices at night without having to climb into the front to charge. A cigarette lighter adapter port can be hooked up to the back of your truck’s canopy and covert the current to a standard household power source, where you can also plug in your laptop.

If you’re keeping an eye on budget and have some time before your trip, a good idea is to check your local classified ads or Craigslist for used canopies. Just be sure to ensure the quality is still like new — there’s nothing worse than having to deal with potential leaks later. Otherwise, here are a couple of types of canopies you can go with:

Camper shells

If you want to truck camp longer term and you’re ready to invest in the best of the best, then you can’t beat a proper camper shell, or truck cap, like ones by Leer that are fitted to your specs. With options such as an elevated roof for extra headroom, electric wiring, sliding screen windows and more, having a camper shell turns your truck into a convenient, weather-proof camper that can be easily returned to its original state after. Just as good as any camper van.

Truck tents

When you think of camping out of your truck, a truck bed tent is probably one of the first things that come to mind, with good reason too. They’re much less expensive and lighter than conventional canopies, providing both comfort and convenience. Also, they’re easier to remove when converting your pickup truck back to normal. If you want somewhere to start looking, Amazon has a great selection of high-quality tents for various truck bed sizes.

The only downside is that they may be less weather-resistant than the alternatives and less secure. Also, you’ll need to take it down every time you drive.

Sleep setup

Before you start thinking about mattresses and pillows, is the back of your truck adequately lined and protected? For added comfort, you might want to consider installing a bed liner.

Bedliners give truck backs the look and feel of a carpet while providing insulation and protection against mold and mildew. You can either fit in some carpet yourself (just make sure it is a water-resistant kind) or have one made to fit your specific vehicle model. Bedliners also tend to have anti-skid surfacing to prevent cargo from shifting — ideal when you’re on the move and don’t want your things flying all around the place.

Moving on to finding the right sleeping pad to go underneath your sleeping bag, there are a variety of options you can choose from:

Regular foam pad. They’re usually available in a variety of thicknesses.

Air mattress. This is a good choice if you have elevated roof space.

Trifold mattress. The most compact option as they can be folded and stored away. They’re also very comfortable to sleep on and usually made of memory foam.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring a pillow with you. It’s one of those small things that are easily forgotten, but very much missed. Bringing a familiar pillow (or two) will help you get a good night’s sleep, just like in your bed at home.

Camper truck cooking

Cooking in the outdoors can be easy if you have the right camping setup.

Unless you plan on eating out every day, having some sort of cooking gear even to warm up a hot drink or soup is a good idea. A small propane gas stove does it in most instances and is a great investment. Some are as cheap as $10 but depending on what kind of cooking you want to do, there is a wide range of choices out there.

A portable cooler or fridge is also essential for storing food. A cooler will keep food fresher for longer, but for longer trips, you may want to get a small fridge that you can wire up to your truck. This is especially important in the summer and ideal for lunch meats, cheese, and well, beer. Your truck also has a great table – the tailgate! If yours has an uneven surface, bring along a plank to place on top to stabilize. Aside from the above, here are some additional accessories you should take with you to make cooking easier on your camping trip:

Can opener
Backpacking knife (convenient and compact)
Percolator
Cup/drinking bottle
1-2 pots/pans (non-stick is preferable)
Cutlery
Cutting board
Tinfoil
Tupperware
Sponges
Dish soap

Staying safe

As with any camping, personal privacy and safety are a priority. Making sure your truck setup is secure and keeping within the rules of the local forest service is crucial for your protection and wellbeing.

Before you leave, do a last-minute lookover on your truck. Check all nuts and bolts are secure on your truck canopy, tailgate and other fixtures you have included. Be wary of attachments added with velcro and don’t suspend too much weight on your canopy ceiling. It could be a safety hazard or ruin your canopy.

When it comes to storing flammable items, such as lanterns, fuel canisters, and camping stoves, make sure they are moved away from linens, blankets, and other combustible materials. Always check on flammable items before you go to sleep and make sure you have a fire extinguisher on standby at all times.

Camping or not, you should always have an up-to-date first aid kit in your truck. Rusty knives, the outdoors and skin sometimes collide, and you’ll want to be able to deal with it on the spot. Take plenty of band-aids, iodine and gauzes, as well as medicine, insect repellent, and other medical kit items.

Privacy

Sometimes, you may find yourself either camping in a place where you really shouldn’t be, or there may be other people about. Depending on how you feel about the situation, it may be best to stay locked in for your own personal security. Installing a simple velcro curtain system may also help you maintain privacy if you have transparent windows.

If you have interior lights installed in your canopy, give them a test run in the dark before your trip — you’ll want to be certain your shadows won’t be too revealing!

Camping tips & tricks

So you’ve sorted out your sleeping arrangements and truck fit-out. To make your camping experience even more successful, here are some camping hacks to help you along the way:

Take a portable power station

As much as we all want to have a digital detox, going camping without a cellphone probably isn’t very practical. Having some sort of portable power station such as a mobile power bank for USB devices, or a generator, will help you out in all manner of sticky situations.

Wash clothes with a garbage bag

Aside from finding a campsite with laundry facilities, there are easy ways you can wash your clothes while camping. For instance, instead of using the usual plastic bowls to wash your stuff in, take with you a clean garbage bag. All you need to do is fill it partly with water and detergent, then swirl it around until you’re satisfied your clothes are clean. Empty the bag, rinse, hang and dry! Or, if you want to get really fancy, you could try a portable washing machine that gives a more thorough result.

Clever outdoor hygiene

Wet wipes (the biodegradable kind) are a camper’s best friend. Save water for your face and hair. If space allows, inexpensive portable showers are an awesome addition to your camping set — some even include solar-powered heat and inbuilt pressure systems. Quick-dry microfiber towels should also be part of your hygiene kit.

As for going to the toilet, nature can be very forgiving. However, do be mindful of local environmental regulations and make sure you aren’t going where you shouldn’t. All waste material should be collected and disposed of where possible. Portable toilets can take up a lot of room, so bring with you a simple urine bottle or folding commode chair.

Avoiding bugs

No matter where you camp, it’s very likely that at some point you’ll be fighting the battle of the bugs. If you have an open-ended canopy, strategically placed bug netting will help keep out mosquitoes and other not-so-friendly bugs from your sleeping area. Avoid camping in damp areas or places where there is stagnant water. And above all, bring insect repellent and itch relief creams!

Use duct tape for everything

Whatever you do, don’t buy with rope and shovel, or you’ll get some funny looks at your DIY store. Jokes aside, duct tape is a must-have for all your camping needs. Uses range from fixing tears, making a rope (twisted duct tape), sealing food packages, fixing glasses, marking trails, and more.

Get creative with camping chairs

No camp is complete without a folding camp chair. After all that driving, you’ll want to relax outside comfortably. There are so many to choose from — camping chairs with side tables, extra reinforcement for back pain, sturdiness for heavier bodies, reclining capabilities and so on.

Cowboy coffee

Fancy percolators are nice to have, but there are ways you can make your morning coffee without having to invest in specific makers. Cowboy coffee is the rustic way of brewing that involves dropping coffee grounds into a pot of boiling water, giving a distinct, down to earth taste. To make cowboy coffee:

Fill up a pot of water and bring to the boil on your campfire or stove
Once boiling, remove from the fire and sit for 30 seconds
Add 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 8 ounces of water, stir well
Allow the pot to sit for 2 minutes, stir, then allow to sit for another 2 minutes
After 4 minutes of brewing, add a small amount of cold water on top to help the coffee grounds settle to the bottom
Pour into a mug, taking care that the grounds remain in the pot. If some transfer to your mug, wait another minute for the grounds to settle
Throw away your used coffee grounds (they’re biodegradable!) and rinse out your pot
Enjoy your coffee, cowboy style

If you’re new to camping and want to make it a more regular thing, how about starting out a camper gift list to build up your camping gear over time?

Final Verdict:

While not for all tastes, 77 million U.S. campers say camping in the back of a truck or car camping is one of the best vacations you can ever have. What’s not to love about exploring our beautiful national parks, connecting with nature, saving money, and having the freedom of time and space?

OK, some prefer hotels, services and creature comforts, which is fine. But as mentioned earlier, truck camping is what you make it — you can have all the mod cons, as long as you’re willing to invest. For everyone else, just get out, drive and you’ll soon find what ticks.

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:

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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

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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

Check Latest Price

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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’.