Camping Tent Buying Guide
Camping Tent Buying Guide
Buying a tent but unsure where to start? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. With so many sizes, styles, and features to think about, most people find it a daunting task. Also, a tent is a big investment, something you'll want to use year after year. So, it's important to choose the best one possible. Thankfully, we’re here to help you find your perfect home from home. In our camping tent buying guide, we’ll give you the lowdown on the types of tent we sell and the key features to look out for. So, you can choose the best one possible for your camping or festival adventure.
Types of Tent
Pop Up Tents
Pop up tents are a popular choice with festival campers who are looking to pitch up and party as quickly as possible. Unlike other tents, they have a coiled frame to instantly pop into shape and can be pitched in less than a minute. However, they’re smaller than other tents and aren’t as waterproof, making them better suited to shorter trips during the dry summer months.
Air Tents
If pitching a tent puts you off camping, an air tent is a perfect option. Instead of fiddly fibreglass poles, they have inflatable air poles for a stress-free set up. Simply peg the tent down, then pump it up for super-fast and easy pitching. Spacious and comfortable, they're also great if you like a bit of luxury when you're camping. Plus, they're highly waterproof to stand up to the British weather.
Dome Tents
Dome tents have poles which cross in the middle, forming a large dome shape with plenty of space. Also, the crossing poles provide extra strength and stability, making them more wind-resistant than other types of tent. Not only are they easy to pitch, but they have a bedroom and front area to store equipment. As a result, they’re great for weekend campers who are looking for extra space.
Tunnel Tents
Searching for something bigger for a group or family outing? Look no further than a tunnel tent. Unlike dome tents, they have arched poles which form a spacious tunnel shape. As well as being tall enough to stand in, most have a living area which is big enough for a table and chairs. Plus, multiple bedrooms for extra privacy while sleeping. Because of their size, they're great for longer camping trips.
Terminology
Sleeping Capacity
Sleeping capacity refers to the maximum number of people who can sleep inside a tent. If you like lots of space, choose a tent one size up. For example, a three man tent if two of you are camping.
Living / Storage Area
In addition to a bedroom, most tents have a living area to relax and store your gear. Because tunnel tents are bigger, the living area often has space for a table, chairs, and other furniture.
Flysheet (Outer Fabric)
A flysheet is the outer fabric on a tent and is usually a tough polyester material. Although its purpose is to keep you warm and dry, the amount of rain protection it provides depends on its Hydrostatic Head.
Bedroom Pod (Inner Fabric)
Bedroom pods clip onto the inside of the tent to create a warm, comfy sleeping space and reduce light infiltration. For extra privacy and easy access, most have a zip entrance door.
Mesh Vents
Most bedrooms have air vents with mesh fabric to keep out insects. The vents also have covers, so you can close them up on colder nights to keep the bedroom warm. Conversely, you can open them on warmer nights to keep the bedroom cool and reduce condensation.
Cable Access Point
Some tents have cable access points to power a kettle, charger, and other electricals via external mains connection. However, this is only possible if your campsite has an electric hook up point.
Ceiling/Lantern Hook
Tents with a larger living area often have a ceiling hook attached to one of the overhanging poles. As well as hanging a lantern to illuminate your tent at night, you can use the hook to dry out clothing. Or hang a piñata!
King Poles (Canopy Poles)
Some of our larger tents come with king poles, allowing you to create a sun canopy. Simply use the poles to prop open the entrance door and increase light and ventilation inside the tent.
Storage Pockets
Storage pockets inside the bedroom area provide a handy storage space for valuables and other bits and bobs. Some of our larger tents also have extra pockets in the living area.
TPU Air Poles
Inflatable tents have thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) air poles which are super-strong and rigid when inflated. Simply peg the tent down, then pump the poles up for super-fast and easy pitching.
Boston Valves
Each air pole has a Boston valve for easy pump connection. Simply release the first valve cap to connect the pump and inflate without any air loss. Or release the second cap to deflate the poles.
Dark Zone Technology
Most of our tents have darkened Dark Zone bedroom pods. Designed using darker fabric, they significantly block out sunlight, allowing you to enjoy a deeper, more relaxing sleep.
Hydrostatic Head (HH)
A Hydrostatic Head (HH) rating indicates how waterproof a tent is. For lighter showers, a tent requires a 1500mm HH. However, you'll need a tent with a 3000mm to 5000mm HH for heavier downpours.
Entrance Doors
Although smaller tents tend to have a single door with two way zips, larger tents usually have multiple doors to provide extra access to groups and families. Some also have secondary mesh doors to allow light in while keeping insects out.
Sewn-In Groundsheet
A groundsheet is the floor of a tent and comes either sewn-in or loose. Sewn-in groundsheets come pre-fitted, keeping you fully sealed off from damp, draughts, and insects.
Bathtub Groundsheet
Whereas a sewn-in groundsheet comes pre-fitted, a bathtub groundsheet is loose with toggle and Velcro attachments for easy fitting. Raised sides help to keep out damp and draughts.
Fibreglass Poles
Frame tents come with flexible fibreglass poles which are both lightweight and very strong. For compact storage, they usually come in sections with shock cords to easily pop together.
Guy Lines
All tents come with hi-vis guy lines for greater strength and torsional stability. For ultimate wind-resistance, most of our larger tents have an extra-strong advanced guy line system (AGS Tech).
Windows
Most tents have clear PVC windows in the living area to aid visibility. Whereas some have normal windows, others have half mesh/half PVC windows to aid ventilation. Plus, curtains for extra privacy.
Oversized Travel Bag
All our tents come with an oversized travel bag for easy storage and transportation. Because the bag is extra-big, it has plenty of extra space inside it, making packing the tent a breeze.
Safety Purge Pump
All our inflatable tents come with a safety purge pump for fast, easy inflation. Because it has a purge valve, it releases excess air once the air poles have reached 7PSI to safeguard from over-inflation.
Front Awning
Some of our larger tents have an awning outside the entrance which has plenty of space for a table and chairs. So, you can dine outside in the fresh air while sheltered from the sun and rain.
Introducing our Camping Tents
So, now you’ve learned about the different types of tent, it’s finally time to choose one. To give you a helping hand, we've compiled a list of the best tents for festivals, families, short breaks, and luxury camping. Plus, the best tent to suit your budget.
Best Festival Tents
Budget Choice: Pop Up 2 Man Tent
It might be on the small side, but if all you need is a place to crash, the Pop Up is a perfect option. What's more, it clocks in at 1.2kg, making it lightweight and easy to carry on festival adventures.
Comfort Choice: Hartland 4 Man 2 Room Tent
As well as a small living area to relax and store equipment, the Hartland has two bedrooms for extra privacy if you’re camping with friends. Also, it’s compact to carry and easy to pitch.
Luxury Choice: Braddon 5 Man Tent
Alongside a large bedroom to sleep five people, the Braddon boasts a spacious living area with enough room for a table and chairs. Perfect for chilling with your family and friends.
Pop Up 2 Man Tent | Hartland 4 Man 2 Room Tent | Braddon 5 Man Tent | |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Pop Up tent | Tunnel Tent | Tunnel Tent |
Sleeping Capacity | 2 People | 4 People | 5 People |
Flysheet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Bedroom Pod | No | 2 bedroom pods | 1 bedroom pod |
Dark Zone | No | Yes - in both bedrooms | Yes |
Living Area | No | Yes | Yes |
Hydrostatic Head | 1500mm | 3000mm | 3000mm |
Groundsheet | Sewn-In | Sewn-in on bedrooms, loose in living room | Bathtub |
Mesh Vents | 1 vent in bedroom | 1 in each bedroom, with curtain | 3 vents across bedroom living space |
Windows | N/A | N/A | 2 half mesh half PVC + 2 PVC front windows |
Storage Pockets | No | 1 in each bedroom | No |
Entrance Doors | 1 with 2-way zip and rain shield | 1 with 2-way zip | Zip entrance with secondary mesh door |
Pole Type | N/A | Fibreglass | Fibreglass |
King Poles | No | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy |
Guy Lines System | Standard | Standard | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System |
Travel Bag | Yes, with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs |
Pitched Size | L216cm x W118cm x H90/65cm | L420cm x W210cm x H140cm | L465cm x W320cm x H180/205cm |
Bedroom Sizes | Same as above | L120cm x W210cm x H115cm | L210cm x W300cm x H180/205cm |
Living Area Size | N/A | L150cm x W200cm x H115cm | L235cm x W300cm x H205cm |
Packed Size | L65cm x W65cm x H4cm | L58cm x W21cm x H21cm | L73cm x W28cm x H28cm |
Weight | 1.2kg | 6kg | 10.3kg |
Family Favourites
Budget Choice: Easdon 6 Tunnel Tent
Searching for a family tent that won’t break your budget? Look no further than the Easdon 6 Person Tent. As well as a large living area with space to stand up in, it has two darkened bedrooms to enjoy a long, relaxing sleep.
Comfort Choice: Hexton 6 Person Tunnel Tent
Looking for a high-quality family tent that's big on features? The Hexton 6 Person Tent has you covered. As well as a large living area and two oversized bedrooms, it has a cable access point to hook up electrical equipment.
Luxury Choice: Gidleigh 5 Person Air Tent
In need of a family-sized tent but don't want the stress of pitching? Look no further than our Gidleigh 5 Person Air Tent. Simply peg it down, pump it up, and you're ready for your camping adventures!
Easdon 6 Person Tunnel Tent | Hexton 6 Person Family Tent | Gidleigh 5 Person Air Tent | |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Tunnel tent | Tunnel tent | Air Tent |
Sleeping Capacity | 6 People | 6-8 people | 5 People |
Flysheet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Bedroom Pod | 2 bedroom pods | 2 bedroom pods | 1 bedroom pod with removable divider |
Dark Zone | Yes - both bedrooms | Yes - both bedrooms | Yes |
Living Area | Yes - tall enough to stand in | Yes - tall enough to stand in | Yes - tall enough to stand |
Hydrostatic Head | 3000mm HH | 5000mm HH | 5000mm HH |
Groundsheet | Bathtub | Sewn-in in all rooms | Sewn-In |
Mesh Vents | Yes | 1 in each bedroom, with covers | 1 above each front window and low level vents in living area. |
Windows | 2 PVC windows, with covers | 2 – half PVC, half mesh | 2 large PVC windows with covers and 2 small front windows |
Storage Pockets | 1 in each bedroom | 1 in each bedroom | No |
Entrance Doors | 2 doors with secondary mesh doors | 2 doors with secondary mesh doors | 2 doors with secondary mesh door |
Pole Type | Fibreglass | Fibreglass | Air |
King Poles | Yes – 2 poles for sun canopy | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy |
Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System |
Travel Bag | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs |
Extra Features | N/A | Cable access point | Cable access point |
Pitched Size | L700cm x W240cm x H185/210cm | L700cm x W240cm x H200/220cm | L465cm x W320cm x H200/180cm |
Bedroom Sizes | L215cm x W225cm x H185/210cm | L210cm x W220cm x H200cm/220cm | L210cm x W300cm x H200/180cm |
Living Area Size | L240cm x W240cm x H210cm | L240cm x W220cm x H220cm | L255cm x 320c, x 200cm |
Packed Size | L75cm x W35cm x H33cm | L70cm x W32cm x H32cm | 80cm x 41cm x 40cm |
Weight | 16.9kg | 18kg | 17.5kg |
Top Tents for a Mini Getaway
Budget Choice: Bracken Dome Tents
The Bracken is a spacious dome tent with a bedroom and a front porch to conveniently store your gear. Lightweight and easy to pitch, it also comes in three sizes for two person, three person, and four person camping.
Comfort Choice: Bowden 3 Man Tunnel Tent
Looking for a tent that's compact and easy to carry, but packed with space once pitched? With space to sleep three people and a living area store your gear, the Bowden is an ideal option. Perfect if you're camping as a couple.
Luxury Choice: Brazen 4 Man Air Tent
If you're after a luxury tent for a romantic getaway, the Brazen is the tent for you. Thanks to its inflatable air poles, it's quick and easy to pitch. Plus, it has a four person bedroom, and a large living area for romantic meals.
Bracken Dome Tents | Bowden 3 Man Tunnel Tent | Brazen 4 Man Air Tent | |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Dome tent | Tunnel tent | Air Tent |
Sleeping Capacity | 2, 3 and 4 person available | 3 people | 4 people |
Flysheet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Bedroom Pod | 1 bedroom pod | 1 bedroom pod | 1 bedroom pod |
Dark Zone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Living Area | Front porch, no groundsheet | Porch | Yes - standing height |
Hydrostatic Head | 3000mm HH | 3000mm HH | 5000mm HH |
Groundsheet | Sewn-in in bedroom | Sewn-in in bedrooms, bathtub in living area | Sewn-in in bedroom, bathtub in living area |
Mesh Vents | 1 in bedroom | 3 air vents | 1 in bedroom |
Windows | N/A | N/A | 2 Half Mesh Half PVC |
Storage Pockets | 1 in bedroom | N/A | N/A |
Entrance Doors | 1 with 2-way zip | 3 doors with 2-way zips | 1 with 2-way zip |
Pole Type | Fibreglass | Fibreglass | Air |
King Poles | N/A | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy | Yes - 2 poles for sun canopy |
Guy Line System | Standard | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System |
Travel Bag | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs |
Extra Features | N/A | N/A | Cable Access Point |
Pitched Size | See below | L435cm x W210cm x H125/145cm | L455cm x W270cm x H195/165cm |
Bedroom Sizes | See below | L210cm x W205cm x H125/145cm | L220cm x W240cm x H 195/164cm |
Living Area Size | See below | L215cm x W205cm x H135/145cm | L235cm x W270cm x H 195cm |
Packed Size | See below | L71cm x W23cm x H22cm | 78cm x 38cm x 38cm |
Weight | See below | 7.35kg | 14.9kg |
Bracken 2 Person | Bracken 3 Person | Bracken 4 Person | |
---|---|---|---|
Pitched Size | L300cm x W140cm x H110cm | L320cm x W210cm x H130cm | L360cm x W240cm x H130cm |
Bedroom Sizes | L200cm x W140cm x H110cm | L210cm x W210cm x H110cm | L240cm x W240cm x H120cm |
Front Porch Size | L100cm x W140cm x H110cm | L110cm x W210cm x H120cm | L120cm x W240cm x H130cm |
Weight | 3kg | 3.6kg | 4kg |
Best Tents for Luxury Camping
Budget Choice: Stannon 5 Man Tunnel Tent
Not too big, but not too small, the Stannon is perfect for both longer and shorter trips. As well as a five person bedroom, it has a standing height living area with room for a table and chairs. Plus, king poles to create an entrance canopy.
Comfort Choice: Shilstone 6 Man Family Tent
As well as a sewn-in groundsheet and six person bedroom, the Shilstone has a 5000mm HH, making it great for all-year camping. As our longest, widest, and tallest tent, it's a perfect choice for group adventures.
Luxury Choice: Luxton 6 Man Air Tent
After a luxury tent that's quick to pitch? Setting up has never been so easy with our inflatable Luxton tent. As well as two spacious bedrooms, it has a large living area with cable access. Say goodbye to the stress of camping!
Stannon 5 Man Tunnel Tent | Shilstone 6 Man Tunnel Tent | Luxton 6 Man Air Tent | |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Tunnel | Tunnel | Air |
Sleeping Capacity | 5 People | 6 people | 6 people |
Flysheet | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Bedroom Pod | 1 bedroom pod with removable divider | 1 bedroom pod with 2 removable dividers | 1 bedroom pod with 2 removable dividers |
Dark Zone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Living Area | Yes - standing height | Yes - standing height | Yes - standing height |
Hydrostatic Head | 5000mm HH | 5000mm HH | 5000mm HH |
Groundsheet | Sewn-in | Sewn-in | Sewn-in |
Mesh Vents | 2 across living space and bedroom | 4 across living space and bedroom | 4 across living space and bedroom |
Windows | 2 half mesh half PVC + 2 PVC front windows | 2 large PVC windows with covers and 3 front windows | 2 large PVC windows with covers and 3 front windows |
Storage Pockets | N/A | Yes | Yes |
Entrance Doors | 1 door with 2-way zip | 2 doors with 2 way zip | 2 doors with 2 way zip |
Pole Type | Fibreglass | Fibreglass | Air |
King Poles | Yes – 2 poles for sun canopy | No - integrated awning instead | No - integrated awning instead |
Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System | Advanced Tri-Point Guy Line System |
Travel Bag | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs | Oversized with set of steel pegs |
Extra Features | Cable Access Point | Cable Access Point | Cable Access Point |
Pitched Size | L480cm x W320cm x H190/210cm | L640cm x W400cm x H210cm | L600cm x W380cm x H210/200cm |
Bedroom Sizes | L210cm x W300cm x H190/210cm | L210cm x W380cm x H 195/175cm | L210cm x W360cm x H 195/175cm |
Living Area Size | L270cm x W320cm x H210cm | L280cm + 140cm awning, W400cm, H210cm | L280cm + 100cm awning, W380cm, H210cm |
Packed Size | L68cm x W30cm x H30cm | 80cm x 38cm x 37.5cm | 80cm x 48cm x 47cm |
Weight | 13.2kg | 25kg | 25.5kg |