You know that feeling when you finally get to the campsite, and it’s dark outside? You’re tired from a long day, but excited about your adventure tomorrow. The only thing standing in your way is setting up the tent. If this sounds like you, then read on to find the easiest tents to set up!
What is the Easiest Tent to Set Up?
We have compiled for you the top 10 Easiest Tent to Set Up in 2023. 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 easy tents to set up and having used several easiest tents to set up 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 easiest tents to set up.
1. CORE 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 216 x 120 x 80 inches (548.6 x 304.8 x 203.2 cm) Size: 12 Persons Material: 68D Polyester Waterproof: 600 MM Instant: Yes Tent Type / Shape: Cabin |
The Core 12-person cabin tent is one of the larger instant tents in the market and features a pre-assembled framework that sets up in under two minutes. Additionally, its design allows partitioning the interior into three sections to create separate living spaces for convenience.
The tent is a 3-season, free-standing model that allows you to pitch it up on almost any terrain. However, it does not perform well in cold conditions due to its extensive mesh roof. Furthermore, the tent and rainfly fabric feature a low 600mm waterproof rating that’s ineffective in heavy rain.
Some of the notable features include the steel poles, which are typically heavier than aluminum and could be why this tent is significantly heavy. The interior spaces have few pockets for keeping small items, and considering the rainfly is short, it does not feature vestibules or a screened porch for extra storage. Overall, the tent may not realistically fit 12 campers and gear, but it may be suitable for large families on short camping trips.
Pros
- An excellent option for large families
- Offers privacy with room dividers
- Features two access doors for convenience
- Pre-assembled structure for easy setup and takedown
Cons
- Heavyweight tent structure for portability
- Not enough storage spaces for gear
- It does not accommodate 12 campers as advertised
2. Wakeman Dome Backpacking Tent
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 2 Persons Material: Nylon Waterproof: No |
If budget constraints are a concern for you as they are for us, the Wakeman two-person tent is a game-changer. The 190T polyester construction is built to last, and the water-resistant rainfly is a handy feature that keeps you dry.
However, it does falter when it comes to ventilation. A single mesh window on the door hardly suffices for good airflow. But on the bright side, the dome structure gives you a spacious interior, and the fiberglass poles offer wind-resistance. Dimension-wise, you’re looking at a comfortable 6.25×4.80 feet base and a center height of 3.50 feet. While it is roomy, the tent’s lack of multiple windows means less-than-ideal ventilation.
Pros
- Budget price,
- Simple setup and takedown,
- Lightweight design is easy to carry,
- Sturdy for the price
Cons
- Best used in colder climates,
- Not very good ventilation
3. 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
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. Abco Sport Pop Up Tent
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 88 x 47 x 37.5 inches (223.5 x 119.4 x 95.3 cm) Size: 2 Persons Material: Nylon Instant: Yes Tent Type / Shape: Tunnel |
The Abco Sport Pop Up tent makes an excellent portable shade for social events such as festivals or when you’re picnicking at the beach or park. However, it does not make a practical hiking or backpacking camping tent as it has a light-duty construction that’s not durable, stable, or waterproof to withstand rain or wind. However, some users have found it makes a fantastic tent for the kids to camp in the backyard or living room.
Additionally, the interior dimensions are too tight to accommodate two campers as advertised, and it does not feature a vestibule to stow your gear. On the upside, the nylon shell features 50+ UV protection to shelter from the sun at the beach, and the mesh windows offer excellent ventilation.
Pros
- The pre-assembled frame allows instant set up and take down
- Flexible design for multipurpose use
- Excellent sun protection and ventilation
- Lightweight for easy portability
Cons
- Shell is not waterproof
- Tight interior space for two adults
7. Coleman Steel Creek Fast Pitch Dome Tent
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 168 x 120 x 68 inches (426.7 x 304.8 x 172.7 cm) Size: 6 Persons Material: Polyester Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The Coleman Steel Creek tent features a similar design to the Evanston model with a screened porch. It comes as a 6-person tent which users have noted fits four people much more comfortably with space to move around. However, you can use the porch area to keep your gear when camping in fair weather as it is not covered to prevent rain.
The tent has a notably smaller footprint and headroom than the Evanston, and you may feel squeezed if you’re on an extended trip. Also, it is a 2-season tent that does not perform well in heavy rain and windy conditions.
On the other hand, the tent design allows for fast pitching with color-coded poles and clips, but the rainfly does not offer full coverage. It also features excellent ventilation with mesh windows and roof vents for airflow at night. Additionally, the windows have awnings that allow you to keep them open when it rains without getting the inside wet.
Pros
- The design includes a screened multifunctional porch
- Well ventilated with multiple mesh windows and roof vents
- Quick and easy assembly and takedown
- Good quality build and affordably priced
Cons
- Inadequate space and headroom to fit six campers comfortably
- Only suitable for use in pleasant weather
8. Moon Lence Camping Tent
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 5.95 pounds (2.7 kg) Size: 83.8 x 59.8NaN inches (212.9 x 151.9NaN cm) Size: 2 Persons Material: 100% Polyester Waterproof: Yes |
The Moon Lence camping tent is a double-layer 2-person tent that is made from 100% polyester. It is easy to set up and pull down and comes in a small handy bag for storage. This affordable tent that cost less than $200 and comes with 190T PU material construction with a 1000mm water-resistance and UV-resistance to provide all-around protection with water-resistance. It comes with two windows and a ground vent for improved air circulation.
For stability, it has 4 guy ropes and 9 lightweight iron pegs to keep the tent balanced in windy conditions. It also has 2 shock cord connecting poles for easy set up and it takes 15 minutes to do so.The lightweight iron pegs and guy lines provide stability against windy conditions, and prevent rainwater from pooling on the tent.
Ventilation is not a problem with the large mesh section, ground vents, and a detachable rainfly that controls the moisture by increasing the airflow.
Another notable feature is the internal mesh pockets that give you an excellent way to store your stuff. The tent also comes with a ceiling hook to hang your lantern and create the best environment at night.
Pros
- Generous two-person tent,
- Small and is easy to store away,
- Wind-resistant with iron pegs and guy ropes for stability,
- UV-resistant
- Several window openings,
- Completely waterproof with tarp material,
- Excellent air ventilation
Cons
- It does not have a tent footprint,
- The zipper occassionally gets stuck
9. Naturehike Lightweight Backpacking Tent with Footprint
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 5.07 pounds (2.3 kg) Size: 84.6 x 70.9 x 43.3 inches (214.9 x 180.1 x 110 cm) Size: 3 Persons Material: 210T Polyester Waterproof: Yes |
When it comes to feather-light travel for your outdoor adventures, Naturehike’s lightweight backpacking tent is a standout performer. Weighing in at a mere 3.7lbs, this tent makes it incredibly easy to keep going on the trail. The tent’s waterproofing capabilities are impressive, thanks to its 210T polyester flooring with a 3000mm PU coating and an additional footprint for extra protection.
However, it’s worth noting that while the tent is designed for mild to moderate conditions, it may not hold up in extreme weather. On the flip side, its freestanding assembly is a breeze, and the included mesh inner pockets and carry bag add extra layers of convenience. Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime warranty on quality-related issues, this tent offers both reliability and peace of mind. For more hiking gear tips, though, check out our guide on the best hiking pants for men.
Pros
- Easy assembly,
- Extremely lightweight,
- High quality at a low price,
- Great ventilation
Cons
- Zippers not the greatest quality,
- May not hold up well in strong winds
10. Coleman Montana 6-Person Tent
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 19 pounds (8.62 kg) Size: 144 x 84 x 68 inches (365.8 x 213.4 x 172.7 cm) Size: 6 Persons Material: 75D Polyester Taffeta Instant: No Tent Type / Shape: Dome |
The Coleman Montana 6P model is an affordable backpacking tent with a modified dome shape that gives it more headroom than typical dome tents. It offers better value for money than the competition, while its quality and ease of setting up compare favorably with other top backpacking tents under $100.
Additionally, its ability to handle bad weather is exceptional for a tent in this price range, where the tub floor delivers high performance when water puddles underneath the tent. However, you would have to get better stakes than provided to secure the tent in high wind conditions.
Ventilation is another notable feature where the airflow system keeps the tent comfortable and prevents condensation. Although it comes with a short rainfly, the angled design of the windows ensures that the inside stays dry and airy even in directional rain.
Pros
- It comes with an awning to keep the door area dry,
- Angled open windows allow ventilation in the rain,
- Reliable rain and wind-resistant construction,
- Easy setup with color-coded poles and sleeves
Cons
- The tent may get cold due to open windows,
- Requires seam sealing to prevent leaks
Verdict
To summarize, we have gone through dozens of easiest tents to set up and decided that 10 are worth your consideration. Out of these, the absolute Easiest Tent to Set Up is CORE 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent which we highly recommend as our overall best.
If money is not an issue, you can consider CORE 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent as this is our Premium Pick.
Otherwise, there’s no shame in spending prudently, Wakeman Dome Backpacking Tent is the Budget Option.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying easiest tents to set up
Size
We can’t stress enough the importance of your tent’s dimensions. It’s not just about having room to stretch. It’s also about making sure the tent is sturdy, manageable in weight, and doesn’t break the bank. Our go-to measurement for a 2-person tent is one that stands at approximately 230 x 160 cm, with a height of around 100 cm. We always encourage fellow campers to pick sizes based on what they’re truly seeking in their outdoor experience.
Weight
Understanding the weight of a backpacking tent is paramount. We’ve found that lighter tents often come at a higher price or offer less space. In our experience, striking the right balance between weight, quality, and cost is crucial. As a benchmark, we recommend that a 2-person tent shouldn’t exceed 3 pounds per individual. Venturing solo? Stick to a 3-pound tent. If you’re journeying in pairs, you have the flexibility to choose a slightly heavier tent, sharing the weight to maintain that 3-pound guideline per person.
Setup
We’re all on the same page when it comes to the joy of an uncomplicated tent setup post-adventure. Exhaustion tends to set in, and an intricate tent process is the last thing any of us want to face. Modern tents have risen to the challenge, usually having simple poles and designs that allow for rapid assembly. A word to the wise for camping novices: try setting up at home first. It’s a simple step that can make all the difference.
Design
As you venture into the realm of backpacking tents, you’ll discover a range of designs from traditional to modern. What they often have in common is their ease of setup—many are easy to assemble even if you’re alone. Vestibules and mesh pockets have become standard features, providing valuable storage and organization inside your tent.
Durability
The durability of your tent comes from your material choice and floor construction. Tents constructed from robust fabrics offer longevity, unlike those that succumb to wear and tear easily. The tent floor protects you from water, especially in damp conditions. For those who tread on tough terrains, an auxiliary ground liner is essential to safeguard your tent’s base.
Questions and Answers About easiest tents to set up
Are fast pitch tents worth it?
For shorter trips, yes, they are worth it. For longer trips, a different tent is recommended as you’ll likely need better protection from the heat and bugs. However, they do also make a good choice in areas with lots of wildlife, as you can pack them up quickly if you need to escape.
How fast can you set up a tent by yourself?
If you have prior experience, you could set up a tent in as little as 5 minutes depending on its complexity. However, having someone around to help you can definitely speed up the process. If you’re worried, practice doing it in your yard a few times before hitting the woods.
Are air tents easy to set up?
Air tents are very easy to set up. You don’t need any tools or equipment to do it either. All you need is a small pump that can blow air and a hose for the attachments. The air will start flowing into the tent and fill it up quickly.
Are pop up tents better than regular tents?
Pop-up tents are great for anyone who needs an easy setup. And, if it’s getting late in the evening, there is no need to fumble around with poles. They’re also much easier to pack away. Unfortunately, they’re often far less compact and hence not as practical for backpacking trips.
