The 10 Best Family Camping Tents for 2024

You’ve decided to embark on a camping trip with your family, prioritizing essentials such as vehicles, food, water, and personal effects. Among these considerations, a crucial item stands out: a suitable tent. It provides a comfortable sleeping space at night and offers protection from bugs, animals, and adverse weather conditions.

Indeed, selecting a tent at random is not advisable for a family camping trip. It’s essential to carefully choose the best model that suits the needs and preferences of all family members. To ensure you’re getting your money’s worth when purchasing a family camping tent, consider factors such as durability, size, weather resistance, ease of setup, and additional features like storage pockets or ventilation.

In our buying guide, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top 10 best family camping tents. Each tent on our list offers excellent value for money and provides reliability and comfort for your camping adventures.

Best Family Tents of 2024

Check out our ranking of the best family tents in 2024.

1. Coleman Elite Montana 8 – Best Overall

We firmly believe that two brands dominate the market: Coleman and Marmot. And when it comes to choosing the best family tent, the Coleman Elite Montana 8 is a great option. It is an 8-person camping tent, available in green, black, and blue colors.

With its sleek design, the Elite Montana 8 promises to elevate your camping experience by offering ample interior space that can comfortably accommodate three queen-sized beds. This generous capacity makes it an ideal choice for most families. It has plenty of room to relax and unwind during their outdoor getaway.

It features fillet welds and patented back seams that prevent water from escaping the tent and the hinged doors make it easy to enter the tent. Installation is incredibly swift, allowing you to set up a comfortable sleeping space within moments of arriving at your camping destination.

Coleman used giant polyethylene on several of his tent floors for high water resistance. The use of fiberglass poles and stakes also make the tent sturdy and durable. It performs well in a variety of conditions, and it can tolerate external factors well. The windows are slanted down to prevent rain from falling. However, it is a three-season family tent and the important weight in transport is 25.5 pounds.

2. COLEMAN Coastline 3 Plus – Editor’s Choice

The Coastline 3 Plus Deluxe is a comfortable family-friendly tunnel tent, suitable for 3 or 4 people. It was designed to protect you in all weather conditions. The inner tent attaches to the outer part, yet it surprisingly remains cool inside. We slept in it in 4 people 2 adults and 2 children 3 and 1.5 year olds for a week.

The installation is very easy, thanks to the fast altitude tunnel shape which allows you to make the most of your vacation activities. It has a beautiful design with muted colors. The outdoor veranda is very comfortable and you are almost standing inside. However, the veranda doesn’t have screens to keep out the mosquitoes.

The total weight of 7 kg and its compactness when folded are definite advantages for easy transport. The fabric is highly resistant, and the bottom features welded seams to prevent water infiltration However, the biggest advantage of the Coastline 3 Plus is its space. This will allow you to order a set of tables and chairs without problems. The height further gives you the possibility to use the space inside.

Side openings allow for air circulation while providing shade from the sun or rain. The quality of this model has been thoroughly confirmed, and its longevity is unquestionable. The durable construction also ensures exceptional stability even in adverse weather conditions.

3. Coleman Tent Oak Canyon 4

On this 4-person family camping tent, the brand has equipped the chamber with “power cut-off chamber” technology. This improvement eliminates 99% of the daylight in the bedroom, which is good enough to sleep in the morning without being affected by the sun at dawn.

The living space is quite large. Thanks to the height of 1.90 m, this allows you to stand upright. Its living room will also allow you to order a table and a chair. For the hot summer, Oak Canyon 4 tents offer good SPF50 + UV protection because of the UVGuard system. Its adjustable ventilation panels help to circulate the air inside and help to reduce the risk of condensation.

The 2 doors and the large PVC windows with “curtains” ensure excellent airflow. The large living space is the perfect place to relax with the family. The folding PVC windows also provide the perfect balance between light and privacy.

The impressive water resistance of the flysheet (4500 mm water column) and the panel will ensure you stay dry, whatever the weather conditions. The porch helps block out rain and sunlight when you open the door and provides shelter for shoes, bags, and other gear.

4. Skandika Gotland 6 Tunnel Tent

This collection from the German brand SKANDIKA is called the Swedish Island of Gotland. This tent is famous for large groups or families because of its functionality and reasonable price. With ready-made signs and mosquito nets at all entrances, you won’t be bothered by pests and diseases.

It is very large and well-designed with a variety of functional options such as a lamp stand, cable tray, handy carry bag, vents, and an entrance that can be used as an awning. Setting up the tent is straightforward, as there are just 4 poles, all identical, and the instructions are easy to follow. However, it can take an hour for beginners.

This spacious tunnel tent is designed for 6 people with a comfortable 210cm high ceiling. It has enough inner space in the lounge for luggage and friends. This model also has a spacious sleeping cabin with removable partitions for a good night’s sleep.

This tent is particularly weatherproof with a waterproof outer tent, 5000mm water column and adhesive seams. In our opinion, this tent is crafted to a remarkably high standard, boasting nearly double the waterproofing capability of many other tents on the market. The fully sewn-in groundsheet adds to its durability. However, due to its weight of 52.91 pounds, this model is certainly less suitable for carrying on the shoulder.

5. Pacific Pass 8 Dome Family Tent

With a breathtaking size of 206.1 × 114.2 × 80.7 inches, the Pacific Pass dome tent offers a large sleeping area with Room Dividers. It has various windows, and bright materials flood the light inside the tent. Its ventilation holes are located in different places, which allows good air circulation.

The Pacific Pass is a large family tent with many functional options such as lamp hook, cabin bag, vents, and entrance that can be used as an awning. Setting up the camp takes around 15-20 minutes. With a suitable ceiling height for everyone, this tent creates enough space for 8 people, including a play area, lounge, and luggage storage.

It has two double cabins for more privacy and a larger cabin for four people. It can also be divided by a movable partition. This dome tent also has built-in high security with weatherproof tent material with 1500mm water column, flame retardant, and high-quality sealed seams.

This model is light-filled, you can stand and move around the tent freely thanks to the almost vertical proximity of the side walls to create a large spacious space. The panel provided its shape to the living room tent like a bathtub to remove moisture and add comfort.

The package comes with a complete set of accessories including a sturdy carrying pouch, sardine rope, rope, and assembly instructions. Solar roofs are also added to this tent.

6. Guide Gear Deluxe Teepee Tent

Let me tell you, this tent is not just your average shelter – it’s a game-changer for family camping adventures. I first fell in love with the 10-foot version for Scout Camp, and it never failed to impress. Now, with a growing family in tow, the upgrade to the 14′ x 14′ Teepee Tent was a no-brainer.

Whether you’re heading to a nearby campground or venturing further off the beaten path, the Guide Gear Deluxe Teepee Tent is always up for the adventure. Thanks to its heavy-duty polyester shell with a waterproof coating, you will stay cozy and dry inside.

The vestibule is a godsend, allowing you to wrangle the kids in and out of their rain gear without turning the tent into a mud pit. With enough room to comfortably sleep six people plus gear, this tent is a dream for family camping. We fit a queen-sized mattress, a twin mattress, and even a pack and play with room to spare – talk about luxury camping!

Setting up this tent is very easy within 20 minutes. Simply position the steel center pole, stake out the guy lines, and voila – your home away from home is ready to go. Weighing in at just 24 lbs and packing down to a manageable size, transporting this tent is a cinch.

7. Coleman Instant Cabin Tent

If you’ve 5 or 6 family members, the Coleman Cabin camping tent could be the perfect choice for you. It has a very large living room of 7.9 m2 with soil in the pots. This large bedroom can take in up to three mattresses (each 70cm wide). The small type can hold up to 2 pieces.

Thanks to Black and Fresh fabrics, this cabin family tent ensures darkness in the rooms and reduces internal heating. It is also waterproof, even in tropical rain. In terms of durability, the Coleman instant cabin tent can withstand winds of around 60 km / h.

A rectangular blanket is also supplied in the package for easy transport. Mosquito nets and bags are installed in all rooms of this tent. You will also enjoy transparent windows and mosquito net windows. Both are shutters. Vents and a ventilation sheet ensure good ventilation inside this inflatable tent.

This tent includes a pre-assembled flyer. Steel piles, inflatable piles, and residential aluminum bars will help you install this tent safely. Moreover, the tent is easy to disassemble. While a rainfly is not necessary for this tent, it can be convenient if you wish to open the windows while still protecting against rain.

8. S’more Dolce Lodge Glamping Tent

The design of the S’more Dolce Lodge Glamping Tent is simply stunning. The combination of beige and brown colors creates a cozy atmosphere, while the strategically placed windows and mesh vents allow for fresh air and breathtaking views without the hassle of pesky bugs invading our space.

The thick and sturdy material of this tent gives you peace of mind, especially during light rain showers. With all seams double-stitched and reinforced corners, this tent is built to last through countless adventures.

Space is not an issue with the S’more Dolce Lodge. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates two queen-sized mattresses and all your camping essentials. With six adjustable windows and two vents, you can enjoy optimal comfort year-round, whether you need warmth in the winter or refreshing ventilation in the summer.

But here’s the cherry on top – the 2-in-1 design featuring front and rear awnings. Not only do they provide shade and rain protection, but they also offer extra outdoor space for lounging and enjoying the vacation without having to fully close the tent during rainy weather.

With a 1-year new replacement warranty and a dedicated 24/7 support team, you can buy with confidence knowing that your glamping experience is in good hands.

9. CampFeuer Large Tunnel Tent

Whether it’s a fun camp with friends, a family vacation, or an exciting adventure, the CampFeuer Tunnel Tent would be your best choice for four people. The spacious sleeping compartment with a large fireplace is the ideal place for a relaxing holiday in the open air.

It has good ventilation, which is essential for good health and sleep, especially at night, to explore the campsite courageously the next day morning. As a result, this sleeping cabin has two large entrances and is made of breathable fabric and mosquito nets.

In the hall, you have enough space for your camping kitchen and camping accessories. With taped seams and a 3000mm water column, this tunnel tent can take even longer mountain hikes. The landscaped plan keeps your items dry and protected. However, we cannot confirm its waterproofing capabilities as we have not yet had the opportunity to test it in rainy conditions.

The walls are made of mesh, which makes for excellent air circulation, so you can sleep more comfortably on hot nights. With a packing size of 64 x 19cm, the CampFeuer tunnel tent is easy to transport. This model is also not heavy; weighs about 7.9kg.

10. Coleman Coastline 4 Deluxe Tent

Coleman’s Coastline 4 Deluxe tent has a classic tunnel type. The 5.9m2 bedroom space can easily accommodate 4 people and mattresses, while the 5.8m2 living space is enough to hold tables and store all graphics. In addition, you can stand on it without problems (high 2 encountered).

However, the primary reason for selecting this model is its ease of assembly. No additional accessories are required for setup. With its fast tunnel design, it can be erected quickly. Rest assured, it will handle rain and storms with ease.

The Coastline 4 Deluxe family tent is very popular for its large windows, which allow ample natural light to filter through the interior, even during inclement weather. This design eliminates the need for additional spotlights and wind panels. Furthermore, it features one side door and a spacious main door that can be opened to create a large porch area.

If you’re looking for a compact family camping tent, the Coleman Coastline 4 Deluxe could be an excellent choice. However, ventilation could be improved. When the front door is zipped closed, only small vents are available to allow moisture to escape.

How to Choose the Best Family Camping Tent?

Selecting the best family camping tent hinges on your usage patterns and destination. Factors such as group size, budget, and vacation spot shape your criteria, which may differ from others’. Naturally, your preferences will refine your tent choice, prioritizing certain criteria over others. While we believe our list is comprehensive, supplemental guidance can be beneficial. Hence, we’d like to discuss some fundamental factors with you to consider before buying a family camping tent.

Capacity

How many individuals will be accompanying you on the camping trip, or how large is your family? It’s essential to consider the tent’s capacity to ensure comfort. A tent that’s too small may feel cramped, while one that’s too large can lead to heat loss on cooler nights. Begin by examining the tent’s stated capacity by the manufacturer. Some may even include a “+” sign, indicating additional space for storing belongings inside the tent, enhancing comfort.

Moreover, assess the various sections of the tent. Does it solely offer sleeping quarters, or are there dedicated areas for recreation, cooking, etc.? Having separate spaces can greatly enhance convenience and enjoyment, especially when camping with family, preventing overcrowding.

Furthermore, take into account the sleeping habits and height of each individual, as some may move more during the night or require extra headroom.

Height and weight

Most family camping tents are designed to be carried in the car, so they are larger and tend to be heavier than small pop-up tents or expedition tents. Consider the packed size of the tent to ensure it fits into the trunk of your car and aligns with the pitch size reserved at the campsite, including any extensions.

Pitching

An easy-to-pitch tent will start your family camping trip stress-free. Children may want to participate in erecting the tent, but for families with young children, a tent that can be set up with fewer than three people is essential.

Space

It’s widely acknowledged among campers that the advertised maximum capacity of a tent can often feel a bit snug in reality. Therefore, it’s crucial to inspect a tent in person to ensure it provides ample space for your family and includes other essential features. Additionally, having a decent living area in your family tent is important to prevent feelings of claustrophobia and enhance comfort, especially during inclement weather conditions.

Your tent should have a good head height so that you don’t have to bend down once inside. You should be able to fit a table and chairs inside, both for eating and playing cards or board games with the family.

Ensure your tent offers sufficient head height so you don’t have to stoop upon entry. It should accommodate a table and chairs for dining and family activities like playing cards or board games. Also make sure that the tent has enough storage space for your camping gear, which helps keep the tent’s main living and sleeping areas clutter-free.

Flexible sleeping compartments

The age of your children likely influences your preferred sleeping arrangements in the tent. Therefore, opt for a tent with flexible room compartments, featuring a central zipper that separates the two rooms. This design allows campers with young children to utilize a large compartment or divide it into two for added privacy as the children grow older.

Ventilation and insect protection

Ventilation plays a crucial role in selecting the best family camping tent. Ample ventilation enhances comfort during the camping experience, and strategically positioned ventilation panels facilitate free air circulation throughout the tent. These panels should feature mesh coverings to allow air in while keeping insects out. Doors equipped with attached screens are particularly desirable as they permit fresh air to flow into the tent while effectively preventing bugs and flying insects from entering.

Number of doors

Multiple doors offer enhanced ventilation by facilitating a free flow of air throughout the tent, particularly welcoming during hot weather. Having two doors provides flexibility for family campers to enter and exit the tent conveniently, especially during overnight trips to toilet blocks. This feature proves particularly handy in bad weather, as multiple doors help reduce the accumulation of mud and foot traffic through a single entrance.

The Windows

Large windows can help make the interior of your tent lighter and increase the feeling of space. Pre-tied curtains block out light when needed. Family tents with lots of windows are a real plus for family campers.

Porch

A tent with a built-in porch or an optional porch or canopy extension is a good option for families as it can be the perfect place to remove muddy boots and outerwear before entering the main living area.

Extensions

Tents offering extension options are a valuable consideration for regular family campers. These extensions provide the flexibility to add more space as your family grows or to customize your camping experience based on the type or duration of the trip.

Also, an awning attachment can offer protection from the sun and create a shaded area for outdoor enjoyment. For families seeking additional amenities, larger tent extensions are available, which provide separate cooking areas, extra storage, or expanded living space.

Additional features

Many camping tent features are designed to make your camping experience as easy and comfortable as possible. Features like lantern hooks make it easy to light the tent at night, and entry points for electrical hookups benefit campers who need to charge their cell phones or power other electrical devices.

A tent mat is not an essential part of camping, but it will make your family tent more cozy while acting as an insulator. Custom tent mats are designed to fit specific tent models. Sewn-in groundsheets are a fairly common feature of family-style tents and are considered an effective way to protect against water, drafts, and insects.

FAQs

How many people can be accommodated in a family tent?

Family camping tents come in different designs and sizes. The smallest tents start with a capacity of four people. Tents for around six people are common, but larger options for eight, ten, or twelve people are also available.

How much do good family camping tents cost?

Depending on different ideas, the price of a family tent can vary widely. The cheapest tents are usually a bit smaller and cost around 100 dollars. Larger options are priced between 150 and 350 dollars. Those who value high-quality workmanship, durability, and well-thought-out design can also invest over 500 dollars.

How practical are tents with multiple sleeping compartments?

Family tents with sleeping cabins have proven to be very practical. Since the tent space is limited, they still allow some privacy when camping and are especially practical for parents or young people. Often the partition walls of two cabins or the whole cabin can be hung out so that two rooms are converted into one large one.

Can family camping tents also be small and light?

Compared to trekking tents, which are mostly developed for one or two people and weigh a maximum of 2.5 kg, family tents are worse in terms of weight and pack size. Nevertheless, they are characterized above all by their size, which is suitable for many people.

This fact alone brings significantly more weight to the scales and is responsible for a larger pack size. There are family tents that weigh over 15 or even 20 kg. Overall, it can be assumed that greater comfort is accompanied by greater weight.

Are there also luxury family camping tents?

In recent years, a new trend known as “glamping” has emerged, blending the concepts of glamour and camping. This trend has gained popularity as it allows individuals to enjoy the experience of nature while indulging in comfort and luxury. Glamping provides an opportunity for people to have the best of both worlds, satisfying their desire for outdoor adventure while enjoying the amenities and conveniences typically associated with upscale accommodations.

However, classic glamping experiences are often not self-organized affairs. Instead, numerous suppliers offer spacious and inviting tents with meticulously curated interiors that differ significantly from basic camping equipment. Due to the luxury factor involved, this type of holiday tends to be much more expensive than a traditional camping excursion, where individuals bring their own gear.

What alternatives to family camping tents are there?

As an alternative in the tent area, the house tent is definitely to be mentioned. This is a steep wall tent, which is reminiscent of a small house due to the almost vertical walls and the standing height. Steep wall tents usually have separate areas and cabins. They are extremely stable and robust. However, they are very heavy and the packaging dimensions are very large.

Classic alternatives to family tents in the outdoor area would also be caravans and mobile homes. Depending on the size, these are also suitable for (small) families and even come with fixed furniture, as well as a possible power supply and their own sanitary facilities. However, the acquisition costs for a mobile home are very high.

What are the advantages of family camping tents?

Conclusion

To purchase the best family camping tent, we recommend browsing through tent catalogs available on online sites. These catalogs feature hundreds of tent options from well-known brands in the camping and hiking industries. By following our advice and guidance, we hope that you’ll be able to select the ideal family camping tent for your next outdoor adventure.

Do you have particular preferences or needs? Have you already tested a tent and would like to recommend it… or not recommend it? You can share your opinion in the comment section below. And tell us which family tent you choose.

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