Desert camping is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences. You will need a tough tent that can handle sand storms, scorching temperatures and other adverse weather conditions. There are many options to choose from so use this article as your guide for how to pick the best tent for desert camping!
What is the Best Tent for Desert Camping?
We have compiled for you the top 9 Best Tent for Desert Camping in 2024. In this article we go through the products that we have used ourselves, checked what other users thought about them and we ranked them accordingly.
With years of experience with desert camping tents and having used several tents for desert camping you can trust our review.
Moreover, you can scroll to the end of this review to see our mini buying guide as well as the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about tents for desert camping.
1. Naturehike Mongar 2 Person Backpacking Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 83 x 53 x 40 inches (210.8 x 134.6 x 101.6 cm) Size: 2 Persons Material: 20D Ripstop Nylon Waterproof: 4000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The Mongar 2 is a popular two-person backpacking tent suitable for various camping environments and seasons. The tent features a dome shape with a door on each side for easy access, interior pockets for organization, and generous interior space for most people. Its quality and weather resistance compares favorably with premium-priced tents, and it also comes in various attractive colors.
The Mongar 2P has a lightweight construction at 4.6 pounds which makes it ideal for backpacking. However, some buyers noted that it is heavier than typical two-person tents, but the weight includes a groundsheet and the stakes. It features a 20D ripstop nylon rainfly and floor and comes with 7001 aluminum pegs for stability.
The tent is remarkably sturdy in bad weather and offers excellent waterproof protection with silicone coating on the shell and floor and fully taped seams. It also features adequate ventilation and insect protection with its high-density mesh.
Pros
- Sturdy Y-frame structure withstands windy weather
- Waterproof construction with silicone coating
- Generous and comfortable interior space
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
Cons
- Not ideal for winter weather
- Slightly heavier than the competition
2. DESERT & FOX Backpacking Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 87 x 39 x 39 inches (221 x 99.1 x 99.1 cm) Size: 1 Persons Material: 210T Polyester, 210D Oxford Cloth Waterproof: 3000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
This Desert & Fox tent is a single-person option, and I like that it is a double-layer tent with excellent ventilation and a 3000mm waterproof index. The tent features a generous interior floor space and height where anyone can comfortably fit in with their gear. It also comes with pockets and a night light hook for convenience and has an extension space between the inner tent and rainfly to stash your extra gear.
The tent features a 210T polyester shell with double stitching and a 210D oxford cloth base with taped seams to prevent leaks. However, this Desert & Fox one-person tent weighs in at 4.6 pounds, which is on the heavy side considering that the material construction is a little thin, and the tent may rip easily. Also, users have noted the zippers are not heavy-duty or waterproof, and you may get wetness around the doors in heavy rain. Overall, it is an affordably priced tent with a quick setup and comfortable interior for the occasional camper.
Pros
- Affordable and good value for money
- Generous and comfortable interior space
- Excellent ventilation with two mesh windows
- Quick set up and take down with tent clips
Cons
- Heavy for a single person tent
- A thin polyester shell that is not durable
- It does not come with a groundsheet
3. Gazelle Tents GG601DS 8-Person Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 34 pounds (15.42 kg) Size: 124 x 124 x 86 inches (315 x 315 x 218.4 cm) Size: 8 Persons Material: Polyester Waterproof: 2000 MM Instant: Yes Tent Type / Shape: Cabin |
https://youtu.be/bdPssosR_8II
The GG601DS is a six-sided gazebo-style tent that accommodates eight people with chairs and a picnic table. This design allows seven feet of headroom at its center and is an excellent option for a sunroom or patio when you have friends over for a barbeque in your backyard or as an accessory while RV camping.
The tent features a 2000mm waterproof polyester roof construction with a 50+ UV rating and a tight weave mesh siding to protect you from weather and insects. It also has a unique pre-assembled design that allows you to set up in under a minute and take it down just as quickly. However, some users got their tents packaged inside out, and it was difficult to pop out the tent.
The shell primarily consists of 201D Oxford weave mesh for ventilation. But, some users have noted that it reduces airflow inside the tent, which makes it stuffy. On the other hand, if you are going to be in the rain or you want to close it up when it gets chilly in the evening, you’ll have to buy the windbreaker panels, floor tarp, and stakes separately. This article will help you choose the best stakes for your camping trip. Overall, the tent does come with a convenient carry bag, but it has a lengthy footprint when packed. Therefore, it may not fit in a standard-sized SUV when you’re going car camping.
Pros
- Pre-assembled framework for instant set up
- Tightly woven side panels keep out bugs and insects
- Generous usable space for eight people with furniture
- Ideal for outdoor living in your backyard
- High-quality construction makes it durable
Cons
- Side panels, floor tarp, and stakes come separately
- Some tents come packaged inside out
- Tight weave may reduce airflow inside the ten
4. Hewolf Instant Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 84.6 x 54.3 x 50.8 inches (214.9 x 137.9 x 129 cm) Size: 2.5 Persons Material: 190T Polyester Waterproof: 2000 MM Instant: Yes Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The Hewolf camping tent features a convenient pop-up design that takes less than five minutes to set up. The tent features double layers that include the shell with a detachable top rain cover and floor tarp and an inner tent with a top and two side mesh panels for ventilation. It also features two side doors for easy access that you can also use to create a vestibule when the mesh screens are up. The tent is significantly heavy and is unsuitable for backpacking, unlike these affordable backpacking tents. However, it is ideal for festivals and overland camping in fair weather.
Other notable features include the 190T polyester construction that users have noted is reliably waterproof but rips easily. It has a roomy interior space with a 5-inch center height that can fit two adults with a child or four young kids with gear. The tent is also remarkably sturdy in windy weather when you stake it firmly into the ground and is versatile for use in different environments. However, versatility also means that the tent has many detachable parts that create open gaps for wind and water and may not be the best for camping in bad weather.
Pros
- Versatile tent adjustable for various uses
- Generous interior space for two people with gear
- Quick and easy setup and takedown
- Highly responsive customer service
Cons
- Too heavy for backpacking
- Only suitable for camping in good weather
- The floor tarp is not attached to the shell
5. Lightweight Backpacking Tent
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 82.7 x 55 x 43.2 inches (210.1 x 139.7 x 109.7 cm) Size: 2 Persons Material: Nylon Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
This Hillman 2-person backpacking tent is remarkable for its ability to keep you warm and cozy in cold weather camping. It is also significantly lightweight and reasonably priced for a 4-season tent. Although the space inside may be a little tight for two adults to fit in comfortably, it is adequate for an adult and their gear or an adult plus a child. Furthermore, it has excellent water resistance and snow shedding abilities, and its frame can withstand 30mph winds with remarkable stability.
On the downside, the tent poles, zippers, and stakes provided are not durable, and some users noted that it produces a lot of condensation in some situations. However, the tent offers excellent comfort and livability in any season to make it worth getting, and it is easy to assemble. Plus, it features a robust nylon construction with UV protection and ventilation panels to keep the interior cool in hot seasons.
Pros
- High-quality construction for a 4-season tent
- Reasonably priced and offers easy setup and takedown
- Excellent comfort and stability in any weather
- It comes with a convenient gear loft
Cons
- Limited space to accommodate two campers
- Poles and zippers are not durable
- It does not come with a footprint
6. Bessport Tents for Camping
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 93 x 53 x 43.3 inches (236.2 x 134.6 x 110 cm) Size: 2.5 Persons Material: Polyester Waterproof: 5000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The 2-person Bessport camping tent features plenty of mesh sections on the inner tent that allow sufficient airflow in hot weather. Additionally, the full-coverage polyester rainfly features roof vents that ensure condensation doesn’t build up while you sleep.
Unlike most 2-person tents, this tent can accommodate two campers in relative comfort, and it features interior mesh pockets to keep small items. Plus, the tent allows 18 inches of vestibule space outside both doors to stash your backpack and shoes.
However, it doesn’t come with a groundsheet, and you’ll have to buy it separately, and the aluminum stakes included are not durable. This article will help you get some replacement stakes for your tent.
On the other hand, the tent features a 5000mm waterproof index and can withstand 40mph winds remarkably well. I also like that it’s a 4-season tent with a full-coverage rainfly that ensures you stay dry and comfortable in any weather.
Pros
- Accommodates two campers comfortably
- High-quality construction for multi-season camping
- Features generous vestibule spaces for your backpacks
- The large mesh top is fantastic for stargazing
- It has a sturdy and robust frame for stability
Cons
- Poor quality zippers and aluminum stakes
- It has a chemical smell when new
- Poor seam stitching and sealing
7. KAZOO 2/4 Person Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 14 pounds (6.35 kg) Size: 95 x 86 x 57 inches (241.3 x 218.4 x 144.8 cm) Size: 4 Persons Material: 210T Ripstop Polyester Waterproof: 3000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The KAZOO Uranus 4-person tent is one of the best choices for families because of its considerable internal space that accommodates four campers comfortably. Also notable is the generous vestibule space that comes with a groundsheet to keep your gear dry and mesh ventilation on the windows and doors for cross ventilation.
Additionally, the vestibule space doubles up as a built-in awning that provides shade and protection from the sun as you sit outside. As the tent’s design is for three seasons, it features a sturdy and robust structure that allows it to withstand high wind while the full-coverage waterproof rainfly keeps you dry in heavy rain.
The tent comes at a reasonable price, and when you compare it against the performance, it is good value for your money. It is also versatile for different camping situations, but it is significantly heavy for backpacking and hiking camping trips. Also, the windows only open from outside, which most people find inconvenient. However, the tent offers an easy setup so you can settle in your campsite quickly.
Pros
- Features a high-quality build and performance
- Decent interior space with adequate headroom
- Robust and highly visible tent stakes and guylines
- The built-in awning provides an outside sitting area
- Versatile for multiple camping environments
Cons
- Windows open from the outside
- Small mesh panels limit ventilation
8. Vidalido Dome Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 144 x 120 x 96 inches (365.8 x 304.8 x 243.8 cm) Size: 5 Persons Material: 150D Oxford Fabric Waterproof: 3000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Tipi |
The Vidalido camping tent is a double-layer, tipi-style tent ideal for family camping or providing canopy shelter at festivals or in your backyard. The tent comes in two sections that include an inner and outer tent that you can use separately. The interior space is adequate to fit four people comfortably with room for maneuvering and is easy to assemble. However, it comes with poorly translated instructions for the setup that may be difficult to follow.
The inner section is a bathtub floor tarp with 120T anti-tear polyester mesh siding ideal for camping in warm environments. It’s also an excellent choice for stargazing in your backyard in the summer while protecting you from mosquitoes and other insects. The 150D Oxford fabric full-coverage rainfly is fantastic for camping in the rain, and it comes with a roof vent to keep condensation at a minimum.
Pros
- Versatile two-part tent for multifunctional use
- Decent build quality with taped seams and sturdy zippers
- Excellent ventilation with full mesh inner tent
- Generous interior space with 8-foot headroom
Cons
- Thin construction fabric can rip quickly
- The main post in the middle can be an inconvenience
9. KAZOO Waterproof Backpacking Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 82 x 51 x 39 inches (208.3 x 129.5 x 99.1 cm) Size: 2 Persons Material: 210T Ripstop Polyester Waterproof: 3000 MM Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The KAZOO Venus is a versatile 2-person backpacking tent with lightweight and robust construction for cold weather camping. The tent has a unique dome design that offers a more efficient ceiling ventilation system and a three aluminum pole design for stability. It is also a free-standing camping tent that doesn’t require pegging and is more suited for camping in fair weather. However, the assembly may be more time-consuming for novices, while experienced campers find it a breeze. Additionally, many users have noted that the interior dimensions are a little tight for two adult campers to be comfortable.
The Venus comes with the typical features of a 2-person tent, such as two doors with vestibules for extra gear, two mesh windows and ceiling vents for airflow, and a full-coverage rainfly for weather protection. Most users appreciate that the tent is comfortable to use, and it doesn’t come with a nasty plastic smell when new.
Pros
- Robust and lightweight construction for backpacking
- The 3-Pole design offers a stable free-standing structure
- Ceiling vents design reduces condensation more effectively
- Suitable for camping in cold weather
Cons
- Not sturdy for rough weather
- Interior space is tight for two campers
Verdict
To summarize, we have gone through dozens of tents for desert camping and decided that 9 are worth your consideration. Out of these, the absolute Best Tent for Desert Camping is Naturehike Mongar 2 Person Backpacking Tent which we highly recommend as our overall best.
If money is not an issue, you can consider DESERT & FOX Backpacking Camping Tent as this is our Premium Pick.
Otherwise, there’s no shame in spending prudently, Gazelle Tents GG601DS 8-Person Camping Tent is the Budget Option.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying tents for desert camping
Desert camping tips
Camping is a wonderful way to enjoy nature, spend time with the family, and experience some great memories. But, camping can be difficult for people who are new to it, especially in the desert. The following are some expert tips that will make the process easier for all.
1. Take plenty of water with you
The desert can get extremely hot during the day, and it will be difficult to survive without enough water. If at all possible, take two gallons for each person in your party for a 24-hour period (72-hour period if you are going into the deep desert). Water is heavy, so this can really add up. Even if you are planning on drinking water at your campsite, take extra with you as well. Remember to drink a lot of water during the day, even if you aren’t feeling thirsty.
2. Never leave food out overnight
Scorpions and other types of desert animals may surely enjoy a free meal, but you probably won’t. Be sure to store all food and any other type of scented products in your vehicle or sealed containers when you go to bed for the night.
3. Don’t lose the map
Even if you are camping in an area that is well-known for its tourist spots, take a map with you. Some of the most famous places may be marked incorrectly on your GPS, and this can lead to a lot of confusion if you don’t have anything else to go by.
4. Know how long it takes to get there
Your camping trip won’t be very enjoyable if you have to keep driving back and forth to the nearest town for groceries or gas. Make sure that your route will be manageable in terms of how long it takes, and factor in some extra time for getting lost.
5. Use a compass
Even if you are headed into an area with well-developed roads and street signs, you should bring a compass. Some of the most well-known desert camping spots are in remote areas that do not have good road conditions. If you lose your way, your car may break down or get stuck on the road.
6. Stay close to trails
The desert is a great environment for camping. But, that doesn’t mean that you should go off of an established trail into the sand. Your path may wind around some of the most dangerous areas in the desert, with sand dunes and wildlife hazards being two examples. If you really want to see fantastic sights on your trip, stay close to trails, and see what nature has to offer safely.
7. Prepare for extreme weather changes
Deserts, in general, are known for having a very wide range of temperatures. However, this can be particularly worrisome if you aren’t prepared for it. Make sure that you have plenty of clothes that cover every part of your body in case of extreme temperature changes.
8. Watch for signs of dehydration
This is probably one of the most important things to do before you go on a desert camping trip. The dangers are often hidden, so it can be easy to dismiss symptoms like stomach pains or lightheadedness if you aren’t used to the environment. Watch for signs of dehydration, and be sure to drink plenty of water if you start experiencing symptoms.
9. Know what time sunset is
It can be extremely disorienting when the darkness comes during a desert camping trip, especially if you don’t have any other source of light. Before you go, learn what time the sun sets in the area. Take note of where the moon rises and sets as well, so you will have a point of reference if it gets dark.
10. Don’t try to do too much
Hydration is important because it gives your body energy. If you aren’t well-hydrated, it is easy to feel exhausted before you start your trip. Do a little research on what there is to do in the area, but don’t try to pack as much into one day as possible. This will only lead to frustration and fatigue.
Use common sense
Finally, the most important part of desert camping is using common sense. If you don’t think that you can handle the heat, take it easy and build up your tolerance slowly. Don’t travel off trails in an area where there isn’t a lot of water available, even if other campers say that this is okay to do so.
Tent materials
There are many different tent materials. Some of the most common include PVC, nylon, polyester, and canvas. But other tent materials include Gore-tex and silnylon.
PVC: This is a type of vinyl that can be waterproof when used on tents. It does not breathe well so it is not ideal for high temperatures or humid environments.
Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fabric made from three different types of plastics and can be water-repellent when fabric treated with a chemical called polyurethane which reduces water penetration through its pores but creates a suffocating environment inside the tent.
Polyester: Polyester is like Nylon in that it is a synthetic fabric made from plastics. Unlike Nylon, polyester stays dry when wet and is more temperature resistant but is heavier than nylon as well as being less durable.
Canvas: The old school material of tents. Canvas is lightweight and strong but can be difficult to waterproof. In addition, canvas allows for airflow but is prone to tearing when subjected to sharp objects.
Gore-tex: Gore-tex is a breathable waterproof fabric that allows water vapor and heat to escape but not liquid water in the form of rain or melting snow. Because it breaths, Gore-tex clothing is ideal for high temperatures and humid environments. However, it’s rather expensive.
Silnylon: This is a type of nylon fabric that is coated with silicone oil. It has good resistance to water while providing great airflow and breathability. However, it isn’t the most durable material so it should be used in replacement for tent floors or tarps rather than entire tents themselves.
Weight
In our collective journeys and experiences, we’ve found that understanding tent weight is important for any camping trip. The term ‘packaged weight’ comes up frequently, and refers to the complete weight of the tent as it’s purchased. This weight isn’t just the tent body and rainfly, but also includes the guylines, poles, and stuff sacks. Don’t forget the tent stakes – these are indispensable for anchoring your shelter securely.
Durability
We’ve pitched tents on mountains, valleys, and everything in between. What remains consistent in our experiences is that the longevity of a tent hinges largely on its fabric and floor construction. Opt for tents crafted from hard-wearing materials, as these endure longer than those made from less resilient fabrics. For the floor, a good material is a barrier against moisture. And if your adventures lead you to rocky grounds, an additional ground liner is a worthy investment.
Ventilation & Heat Resistance
Over countless camping trips, we’ve recognized the importance of mesh distribution in a tent’s design. Especially in warmer climates, multiple mesh windows are invaluable for adequate ventilation. Though positioning your tent out of direct sunlight and retracting the rainfly offers some relief, the waterproof nature of many rainflies can inhibit airflow, causing tent condensation. Our advice is to seek tents with roof vents in their inner structure. When paired with a rainfly, this design creates a breathable space between the layers, ensuring ventilation without compromising on rain defense.
Pole and Stakes
When it comes to the foundation of a solid camping setup, poles and stakes are crucial elements that shouldn’t be overlooked. In our experience with backpacking tents, we’ve found that strong yet lightweight poles, typically made from materials like aluminum or optic fiber, are essential for easy pitching and durability. Stakes, or pegs, anchor your tent securely to the ground. These can be made from a variety of materials such as metal, plastic, or wood and can either be attached directly to the tent or connected via ropes.
Tent size
When selecting a tent, several factors should guide your decision-making process. First, determine the tent size based on the number of people who will be using it. This will help you decide whether a 2-person, 3-person, or 4-person tent is most appropriate for your needs. Second, consider the length of your trip and assess whether you’ll have a car for storage, as this might influence your size choice. It’s also crucial to remember that larger tents are generally heavier than their smaller counterparts, impacting both transport and setup. Before finalizing your purchase, compare prices across different brands to ensure you’re getting the best value.
Questions and Answers About tents for desert camping
Can you camp in the desert?
Camping in the desert can be difficult, but it’s certainly not impossible. There may be areas that have some shade where you can camp, or hike for a few miles and find some shade to set up your tent and maybe even find some water. This is one of the most important considerations. You might want to check water supplies before heading out too far from civilization, since dehydration will slow you down considerably and can even pose a real danger to your life/health.
How long does it take to set up a tent in the desert?
Answer: Well, that depends on the type of tent you own and the kind of conditions in which you plan to set it up, but it’s usually anywhere from 5-30 minutes.
Tents have a variety of factors that affect how long it takes to set up and break down. A quick internet search will show a lot of models with an average set-up time of 15-30 min., though that doesn’t necessarily take into account all the various climates and terrain they might be used in. Please try to find a shaded spot, if possible.
What to pack for camping in the desert?
Bring plenty of water (seriously, that’s the most important), food that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, and sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Also a camping fan and sleeping bag might be nice. It’s always a good idea to bring your cell phone or telecommunication device in case you find yourself lost or get hurt. If you’re going from sea level elevation to high elevation then it would be great to bring some ibuprofen too.
How to keep a tent cool in the desert at night and during the day?
Desert camping is fantastic, but it’s not always easy to keep the tent cool. The lightweight fabric of most tents will warm up quickly, and midday heat can be sweltering.
With high daytime temperatures in the desert often exceeding 100 degrees, and nighttime lows dipping into the 40s or 50s, things can quickly start to heat up fast inside your tent.
Use these three quick tips to help keep things cool in your tent even under these extreme conditions:
Set up your tent in the shade where possible for maximum cooling power
Install a lightweight, battery operated fan at least 12 inches from any wall of your shelter so that cold air flows over the blades without creating wind currents that divert warm air back into your living space
Hang a damp cloth nearby for easy access when seeking relief from those hot summer days. The evaporation process will cool your desert tent down quickly.
