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Your choice of shelter can make or break your outdoor experience, and there are so many options to choose from depending on your needs and environment. Picking the right camping tent can get complicated fast and so we looked to the US Traveler team to help us narrow down the top options, who called in some American wilderness experts to assist. If these tents can handle a spell in the US western backcountry, they'll be more than ready to serve you during this year's Glastonbury weekender.
When choosing a tent, Andrew Straley, KOA’s resident gear expert, stresses that setup time and ease of use are key. Joe Bassett, founder of Valiant Outfitters, is a dispersed backpacking and survival instructor. He says there’s a crucial trade-off for backpackers: “There are three factors to consider when buying a tent: low cost, low weight, and durability. You can have two of the three, but never all three.” He suggests that beginners focus on cost and durability before investing in ultralight tents.
Consider your adventure style, group size, and weather conditions to choose the tent that will enhance rather than detract from your outdoor adventure. Below we've rounded up our top picks of the best camping tents for every situation, along with more tips on what to consider when choosing the right one for you.
FAQ:
What should you consider when selecting the right tent?
Selecting the right tent starts with defining your needs first rather than focusing on flashy features. Tim Hunt, tent designer at SlingFin, advises campers to work backward when tent shopping: “First, figure out what you’re going to use the tent for, and then let that define your search.” A tent perfect for ultralight backpacking won’t necessarily be the best fit for weekend car camping, and vice versa.
Size is another key factor. Hunt says that choosing the right tent size depends on the balance between weight and comfort: “A bigger tent is nicer once you’re in camp, but it makes it harder to get there. Only you can decide which is more important to you!” If you’re carrying your tent long distances, opting for the lightest possible shelter might be worth the trade-off. But upsizing is a smart move for a weekend at a campsite or festival. Bad weather also makes space more valuable – extra room inside allows you to socialise, play cards, and keep gear organised when stuck indoors.
What features matter?
Hunt stresses investing in good guy ropes: “People often don’t realise that the loops on the outside of the tent for tying it off to extra stakes or rocks are an important part of making a tent withstand severe weather. They’re not just there for decoration!” Whether choosing a compact backpacking tent, a roomy car camping shelter, or a four-season expedition model, prioritising durability, proper ventilation, and an appropriate weight-to-space ratio will ensure a solid investment in a tent that holds up to whatever nature throws your way.
Our top picks:
- Best tent for beginners
- Best budget tent
- Best backpacking tent
- Best four-season tent
- Best durable tent
- Best two-person tent
- Best family tent
- Best rooftop tent
