March 25, 2020/Riley Draper Table of Contents
Love camping, but hate the tedious process of setting up your tent? Then why not choose a smarter, quicker, and all-together more clever alternative: an instant camping tent.
This type of tent makes pitching camp a breeze, as it only requires minimal assembly – allowing for maximum relaxation. The best instant tents can be erected in seconds, making them a time-consuming solution to creating shelter instantly.
In a hurry? Here’s the test winner after 10 hours of research:
[amazon box=”B00FGPY9CE”]
15 Best Instant Tents – Overview
And here’s an overview of the best instant tents on the market today:
[amazon table=”14814″]
These days, instant tents are available in all shapes and sizes. From compact, 2 to 3-person popup tents to large, 12-person family tents: there’s an instant match for every camper. There are ultralight styles with titanium frames, ideal for backpacking or to take to festivals, but there’s are also plenty of heavy-duty, water-repellent tents that can tackle 4-season usage with ease. Wherever and whenever you plan to camp: there’s an instant tent for that!
To help you save time and money when shopping for instant tents, we’ve bundled our 15 favorite styles in this one, comprehensive overview. In this Best Instant Tents Overview, you’ll discover the top-rated, best-selling styles on the market that deliver excellent value-for-money and comfort. Some are super affordable and basic, others are a bit more pricey and high-end, but we’re confident there’s a perfect fit for every reader and budget!
We’ve included an Editors Picks comparison table, in which we highlight our 5 favorite styles from these 15 best-value products. Though all products listed in our overview are worthy of your time, money, and attention – these 5 products are our team’s favorite deals on Amazon.
Best Instant Tents – Editors Picks
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1. Coleman Fastpitch 2-Person Pop-Up Tent
[amazon box=”B00FGPY9CE”]
When it comes to the best instant tents, this 2-person pop-up tent by Coleman is a prime contender. The best-selling tent sets up in just one minute. it is that quick! In only a few simple steps, you can erect this sleek shelter. Simply unfold the tent, extend the poles, and secure in place using the tent stakes.
This instant tent has a floor space of 84″ x 53″, and a center height of 35″. The tent is very lightweight, weighing just 5.65 lbs: ideal for backpacking trips, hiking, and festival-usage. This pop-up tent is also very portable and packs down flat for easy carrying.
The Coleman Fastpitch 2-Person Pop-up Tent comes with two integrated storage pockets, allowing you to keep your personal belongings off the floor and neatly organized. The design also features a multi-position rainfly, which helps keep you dry – whilst still allowing for cross ventilation of the tent. The tent also features Coleman’s ‘wind-strong frame, which is engineered to be a stronger, more stable frame with redesigned poles and guy-out triangles – keeping you firmly pitched even in strong winds.
High-quality waterproof features
Another weather-proof detail of this instant setup 2-person tent is its taped floor. This means that the seams on the floor have been factory sealed to prevent moisture from entering the tent – ideal for when camping on wet undergrounds. Additionally, the tent also comes with zipper protection. The silhouette features a zipper cuff made of weather-resistant fabric, which prevents water from entering via the door’s zipper.
Do note that though the Coleman Fastpitch 2-Person Pop-up Tent is listed as a 2-person tent, it can be a bit of a squeeze for two large adult campers and lots of gear – also, it’s 35″ center height does not offer lots of headroom. That said, this is pretty much one of the only cons we can think of, as otherwise, this lightweight tent is simply ideal for backpacking trips.
Also, with Coleman, you know getting a quality outdoors kit. This trusted brand has been used by outdoor enthusiasts throughout the generations and has been trusted for years to be reliable, durable, and suitable for all weather conditions. Even though this is a cheap, easy, convenient tent, Coleman hasn’t sacrificed on the durability of their materials. Affordable, functional, lightweight, and assembly in under a minute: this is a budget-friendly favorite for any kind of camping scenario.
PROS
- The tent sets up in under a minute
- Affordable
- Very lightweight, good portability
- Quality rainfly included
- Zipper cuff weather-protection
- Taped seams on the waterproof floor
- Great ventilation options
- Durable materials and trusted brand
- Perfect for backpacking
CONS
- A bit of a squeeze when fitting in gear
- Not the most heavy-duty
- 35″ center height doesn’t offer a lot of headroom
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2. QOMOTOP 4-Person Easy Set Up Instant Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B07N1L7ZLZ”]
The QOMOTOP 4-Person Cabin Tent delivers on the promise of instant set up. This 4-person tent features a telescoping pole frame, pre-attached to the shell; enabling you to erect it in under a minute. Besides instant and easy setup, another big attraction of the QOMOTOP 4-Person Cabin Tent is its affordable price-tag. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly basic tent that delivers excellent value-for-money: this could be your perfect fit.
The QOMOTOP 4-Person Easy Set Up Instant Cabin Tent has a 96″ x 96″ floor space, combined with a 59″ center height. This generous peak height/center height means the tent offers ample headroom to move around – especially compared to other 4-person dome tents (which often peak around 50″). The tent can accommodate up to 4 regular-sized adult sleeping bags or 1 queen-sized airbed. The total packing weight of the tent is approximately 16.75 lbs.
Great cross-ventilation options
This instant cabin tent by QOMOTOP features one large entry door and large windows on both sides. The tent is also equipped with a mesh roof and ground vents, allowing for great cross-ventilation; which prevents your tent from getting stuffy. The mesh windows do come with storm flaps, allowing you to close them in case of heavy rain. Further weather protection is offered by the included rainfly and PE tub floor with waterproof welded corners.
We also like that the QOMOTOP 4-Person Easy Set Up Instant Cabin Tent comes with a handy electrical cord access port. This port allows you to easily lead electrical cables inside the tent, enabling you to charge your devices in the comfort of your shelter.
If you like the style (and price) of the Easy Set Up Instant Cabin Tent by QOMOTOP, but want more sleeping space/floor space, you can also order a bigger version. Because this budget-friendly tent is currently also available in a 6-person, 8-person, and 10-person tent option – which all feature the instant setup within 60 seconds construction.
It may not be the most durable or fancy camping tent on the market, but for its very affordable pricing, super easy setup, and great value-for-money, the Instant Cabin Tent by QOMOTOP is certainly one of the best deals for campers and backpackers on a budget!
PROS
- Quick set up under a minute
- Budget-friendly
- PE tub floor with welded seams
- Rainfly included
- Telescoping poles with pre-attached frame
- Can fit a queen air mattress
- Electrical cord access port
- Mesh windows and mesh ceiling allow for great ventilation
CONS
- The material of the tent floor could be more durable
- Not the most secure in strong winds
- A bit heavy at 16.75 lbs
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3. CORE Equipment 4-Person Instant Dome Tent
[amazon box=”B00VFG6LNI”]
This highly-rated 4-person tent by CORE Equipment is about as instant as they come! The tent’s pre-assembled steel pole system and easy-to-follow directions make setting up camp a breeze. According to the manufacturer and Amazon reviews, you can fully erect the tent in under a minute: creating an instant shelter whenever, wherever you want. This CORE Equipment Instant Dome Tent can fit up to 4 adult campers in sleeping bags, or one queen-sized air mattress.
The CORE Equipment 4-Person Instant Dome Tent measures 108″ x 84″ in floor space, with a center height of 54″. The total packing weight of the tent is 12.1 lbs. The silhouette of the tent features a D-style door entry, allowing for easy access. The inner shell of the tent features a full mesh roof, allowing for great ventilation and breathability.
The tent comes with a fully-taped rainfly that covers the mesh paneling, keeping you dry when rain strikes. On warmer nights, you can also opt to use the tent without the rainfly – which also makes the tent great for stargazing.
Plenty of gear storage options
Other perks of the CORE Equipment 4-Person Instant Dome Tent include handy gear storage options, including integrated storage pockets, and a gear loft. The gear loft also features a lantern hook, allowing you to easily illuminate your tent at night.
This quality tent also features CORE Equipment’s special H20 Block Technology. This means that the silhouette is made of water-repellent fabrics and comes with sealed seams to prevent moisture from entering. Another pro is that the camping tent comes with an electrical cord access port, which is also fully closable when not in use.
PROS
- H20 Block Technology
- Lightweight (12.1 lbs)
- Large D-style door entry
- Fully-taped rainfly included
- Integrated storage pockets
- Gear loft with lantern hook
- Made of water-repellent fabrics
- Electrical cord access port
- Great cross-ventilation
- Can be set up in under a minute
CONS
- More comfortably sleeps 2, with space for 1 queen air mattress
- Not a full-coverage rainfly
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4. Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent
[amazon box=”B01GY46QIK”]
The Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent is a best-selling, mid-budget family tent with outstanding Amazon customer reviews. The large 6-person tent offers ample room for your family, friends, and/or outdoor gear, and requires no assembly thanks to its ‘Quick Open System’. It’s not a fully pop-up tent, but according to the manufacturer, a worry-free setup can be achieved in less than 10 minutes. That’s a lot quicker than most similar-sized cabin tents!
The Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent measures 120″ x 120″ in floor area and has an extra-tall center height of 78″. The tent can sleep up to 6 adults in sleeping bags – and offers enough space for an air mattress and a children’s cot in case you want to go family camping. Do note that this tent weighs 25.7 lbs, meaning it’s quite heavy to carry. Though this makes it less suited for backpacking, it should not be a hefty issue for car campers.
Large mesh windows for cross-ventilation
The Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent features 3 zippered mesh windows for optimal ventilation. Additionally, the tent comes with mesh ceiling, allowing for extra airflow. This large tent also has one large, O-shaped door. We would have preferred an extra entry/exit point, as a single door is not the most convenient when camping with 6 people. Because you may be required to crawl over others to reach the exit. That said, for the Timber Ridge’s tent great quality, pricing, and ease of setup, we’d be happy to compromise on the number of doors…
Other features of the Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent include an integrated storage pocket to keep your belonging off the floor, and a quality partial-cover rainfly to provide shelter in bad weather conditions. The tent is also covered by a 1-year product warranty against manufacturing defects, ensuring you get a product that lives up to and exceeds expectations.
The Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent is spacious, easy to set up, and ideal for family camping trips where you want to spend less time on assembly, and more time having fun with your kids. An affordable mid-budget favorite amongst campers: the Timber Ridge 6-Person Instant Tent gets our seal of approval!
PROS
- Great tent for family camping
- Ample headroom due to 78″ center height
- Integrated storage pocket
- 3 large, zippered mesh windows
- Set up in under 10 minutes
- 1-year product warranty
- Great cross-ventilation
- Excellent value-for-money
CONS
- Only 1 O-shaped door
- Setup could be quicker, especially for an instant tent
- A bit on the heavy side (25.7 lbs)
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5. CORE 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B07DRQH7RQ”]
Large family tents can be a real hassle to set up, requiring a lot of patience and practice. Fortunately, there’s an alternative for large group camping: the CORE 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent. This tent maximizes interior space, with a minimum set up time required. According to the manufacturer and Amazon reviews, this 12-person family tent can be pitched in just a few minutes; which is why it’s no surprise this style is one of the most popular instant tents on the market.
The CORE 3-Room Instant Cabin Tent measures 216″ x 120″ in floor space, with a center height of 80″ – offering ample headroom to move around. As expected, this large 12-person tent does come with quite a hefty carrying weight: approximately 50 pounds when packed. Though weight should not be a major issue for car campers, it’s something to take into consideration if you plan to carry the tent over long distances.
The 12-person CORE Instant Tent features 2 entry-points: a D-style door and a T-style door, providing easy access from both sides. Both the tent’s doors also come with an awning, keeping the entry dry in unfavorable weather conditions.
Speaking of bad weather, the CORE Instant Cabin Tent is more than equipped to handle wet days. The instant tent’s polyester shell has been treated with patented ‘H20 Block Technology’, meaning that the fabric is coated with a special layer to make it water-resistant. Furthermore, the CORE Instant Cabin Tent comes with factory-taped seams and a quality tarp floor – keeping you protected from wet underground.
Advanced Venting System construction
When the temperature heats up, this large tent helps you keep your cool with its ‘Advanced Venting System’. This system uses ground vents to draw in cool air, whilst expelling warmer air via the mesh ceiling. The mesh ceiling also means this tent is a great choice for stargazing. On clear days, you can easily remove the rainfly and get an unrestricted view of the night’s sky.
This large, 12-person instant cabin tent by CORE is super quick in setup, as confirmed in its many 5-star Amazon reviews. In just 3 easy steps, you can erect this 12-person tent in minutes. Firstly, unpack and unfold the frame. Secondly, lift the telescoping legs. Thirdly, extend the poles until they click in the right position. If desired, attach the rainfly and voila: you’re ready to camp.
Another perk is that the CORE 12-person instant cabin tent comes with a 1-year limited product warranty. This means that if you notice any manufacturing defects within the first 12 months of purchase, you can arrange a refund or replacement – making it a risk-free purchase.
Do note that whilst setup is super quick, some campers confirm that securing the guy lines can be a bit thicker and time-consuming. Another minor con is that the mesh silhouette is not ideal for cold weather camping, as it’s simply too ventilated. However, for fair weather camping with the family, this large tent is simply one of the best instant tent deals on Amazon.
PROS
- Quick and easy in setup thanks to telescoping legs
- 2 room dividers included
- Can be configured as a 2-room or 3-room tent
- Great cross-ventilation
- Ample headroom with 80″ center height
- H20 Block Technology
- 1-year product warranty
- Waterproof tarp floor
CONS
- Can be tricky to secure the guy lines
- Zippers may damage easily
- Not the highest-quality standard
Best Instant Tents – Other Top-Rated Options
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6. CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent
[amazon box=”B07MNTQP66″]
If you like the style and features of the previously listed CORE 12-Person Instant Cabin Tent but have more modest space requirements, this 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent by CORE may be a better match. This large tent by CORE offers the same quick set up time, durability, and weatherproof appeal as the 12-Person tent, but comes with a smaller 168″ x 108″ base layout. The 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent by Core has a center height of 77″. This means it offers ample headroom to move around. The total packing weight of the tent is 36.3 lbs.
Other high-end features of the CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent include CORE’s patented H20 Block Technology, meaning the tent is constructed with water-repellent fabric and comes with a taped seams and a waterproof floor. The Instant Hub Technology allows you to pitch this large tent in under a minute. Whilst the Adjustable Venting System enables proper airflow to keep the interior cool and comfortable.
The CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent can fit up to 9 sleeping bags or 2 queen-sized air mattresses and comes with dividing walls for extra privacy. The silhouette has a mesh ceiling, 2 large doors, an electrical cord access point, and includes a 1-year product warranty.
PROS
- Ample 77″ center height
- Can fit 2 queen air mattresses
- 2 doors
- Electrical cord access port
- Optional room dividers for privacy
- H20 Block Technology
- Water-repellent fabric shell
- Advanced Venting System
- 1-year product warranty
CONS
- Relatively heavy to carry
- Zippers are reported to be prone to wear and tear
- A tad expensive
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7. Coleman Double Hub 5-Person Instant Dome Tent
[amazon box=”B00I2SW9SI”]
This instant tent from Coleman is the ideal size for 5 campers, offering a generous 70 square feet of internal floor space. As one of the most affordable family tents on Amazon, this large tent is a great value, budget-friendly choice for campers on a budget.
The Coleman Double Hub 5-Person Instant Dome Tent measures 120″ x 84″ in floor area, and has a 64″ center height. The highly-rated tent weighs just 13.1 lbs; which is quite lightweight for a tent this size. The tent features 2 mesh windows and one zippered door, enabling proper cross-ventilation.
Lightweight fiberglass frame
Though affordable, the Coleman Double Hub 5-Person Instant Dome Tent is made of great quality materials. The tent’s fiberglass poles with integrated steel make a simple but strong tent frame. The tent includes a water-resistant 75-denier polyester taffeta rainfly. The tent also has a tub floor with factory-sealed seams, made from rugged 1000-denier polyurethane for extra durability.
One thing we don’t like about this tent is the included carry bag, it’s a bit small and requires a lot of patience to pack the tent down. That said, for the tent’s affordable price-tag and great quality standard, we reckon that’s a fair trade-off. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 5-person tent with ample room for friends, family, and camping gear – this 1-minute setup silhouette could be your instant match!
PROS
- Budget-friendly
- Made by a quality brand in outdoor gear
- Super quick setup in under a minute
- Easy to take down
- Water-resistant 75-denier rainfly
- Tub floor with sealed seams
- Excellent value-for-money
- Ample headroom
CONS
- Small carry bag
- Only one door
- Not the most heavy-duty
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8. Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent
[amazon box=”B01DJN85BU”]
If you were tempted by the branding and easy assembly of the previously listed 5-Person Coleman tent, but needs more space, consider the Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent instead. Though this cabin tent differs slightly in shape and silhouette, it offers the same lightning-fast setup and comfort.
The Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent measures 120″ x 108″ in floor area, with a peak height of approximately 71″. The tent weighs 24.4 lbs and includes a carry bag for extra portability. The tent can accommodate 6 regular-sized sleeping bags or 2 queen-sized airbeds. The large tent also has two integrated storage pockets, allowing you to keep your personal belonging neatly organized.
Pre-attached poles for lighting-fast setup
The Coleman Waterproof 6-Person Instant Tent comes with pre-attached poles, making setup achievable in just 60 seconds. To erect the tent, simply unfold it, extend the poles/frame, and secure it in position. Even those campers who’ve never set up a tent before will be able to get it done swiftly, without challenges.
The 6-Person Instant Tent by Coleman features an integrated rain fly and comes with Coleman’s patented Weather Tec system construction. This means that the tent features a special welded floor and inverted seams, designed to keep you dry. Do note that some reviewers complain the tent is not fully waterproof in heavy rain, and leaks can happen. That is why we’d rate this tent more as a fair-weather/summertime alternative, instead of a 3-season tent.
Additionally, the Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent does not come with room dividers, meaning it may lack a bit of privacy when camping with friends. If you want the option of creating a multi-room tent, consider the CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent (as listed previously) as a better alternative. That said, if privacy is not your main priority, and you only plan to go camping in fair weather conditions, this budget-friendly Coleman tent could be a great fit.
PROS
- Affordable
- Made by a quality brand in outdoor gear
- Pre-attached poles for fast and easy setup
- Coleman’s patented Weather Tec System
- Welded floor with inverted seams
- Great value-for-money
CONS
- No room dividers
- Rainfly cannot be removed
- Too heavy for backpacking
- Some reviewers report leaks in heavy rain
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9. Coleman 8-Person Instant Tent
[amazon box=”B00J955FH0″]
Like the style and features of the Coleman 6-Person Instant Tent, but want more sleeping space or storage space? Then perhaps upgrading to the eight-person Coleman Instant Tent is the solution to your camping needs! The Coleman 8-Person Instant Tent can comfortably accommodate 8 sleeping bags or 2 queen airbeds and offers ample headroom to move around.
The Coleman Eight Person Instant Tent measures 168″ x 120″ in floor area, and has a center height of 79″ – which also makes it ideal for taller campers. This large tent can be set up in under a minute. The silhouette features pre-attached poles that allow for quicker, easier pitching by simply unfolding, extending, and securing the pre-assembled frame.
The eight-person tent weighs 37.5 lbs and includes a carry bag for portability. The 8-Person Instant Tent by Coleman is more than capable of dealing with bad weather. The tent features Coleman’s special Weather Tec system construction. This means that the silhouette is equipped with an integrated rainfly, a waterproof welded floor and inverted seams, designed to keep you dry at all times.
Integrated rainfly
The Coleman 8-Person Instant Tent comes with large double doors and plenty of mesh windows to superb cross-ventilation. The mesh windows come rain flaps, allowing you to quickly turn the tent into a waterproof shelter when bad weather strikes.
Do note that the Coleman 8-Person Instant Tent does not feature a separate, removable rainfly – only an integrated one. This means that in warm weather conditions, the breathability of the tent is slightly compromised.
That said, with its many mesh windows and large doors, you can still let in a cool breeze when desired. However, it is something to take into account if you often go camping in the summertime…
PROS
- Made by a quality brand in outdoor gear
- Pre-attached poles for fast and easy setup
- Coleman’s patented Weather Tec System
- Welded floor with inverted seams
- Double doors for easy entry/exit
- Large mesh windows with weather flaps
- Great value-for-money
CONS
- No room dividers
- Too heavy for backpacking
- Rainfly cannot be removed
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10. KAZOO 4-Person Family Camping Waterproof Pop Up Tent
[amazon box=”B081J7QJH8″]
If you’re looking for a mid-budget tent with a high-end appeal, the KAZOO 4-Person Family Camping Waterproof Pop Up Tent could be a prime contender. This reasonably-priced tent is packed with premium features and design elements, making it one of the best value-for-money deals on the market.
The KAZOO 4-Person Family Camping Waterproof Pop Up Tent is part of the brand’s SATURN series, a premium line of family camping tents. The double-layer waterproof tent literally ‘pops up’ when you’re ready to pitch camp. The silhouette automatically unfolds into shape, taking just 30 seconds to setup. The term ‘instant tent’ couldn’t be more suitable!
Great waterproof rating
The KAZOO 4-Person Family Camping Waterproof Pop Up Tent measures 95″ x 86″ in floor area, and has a center height of 61″. The camping tent features a double-layer construction and features a no-see-um netting liner. The shell is made of a breathable 190T polyester, whilst the full-coverage rainfly is a quality 210T ripstop polyester. The 4-person tent has been extensively quality tested and scores a waterproof rating of 3000mm. To keep the tent lightweight and portable, the frame is made of ultralight 19mm aluminum poles. The total packing weight of the tent is 14.3 lbs.
The roomy KAZOO 4-Person camping tent has full mesh walls and a mesh ceiling to provide excellent ventilation. The silhouette comes with 2 large, dual-zipper doors for easy entry. The zipped door can also be supported to turn it into a sunshade. The KAZOO tent also comes with interior mesh storage pockets and a 2-year product warranty.
If you’re looking for an instant tent with the quickest setup time on the market, the 30-second setup of the KAZOO 4-Person Tent is as good as it gets. Granted, it’s not the most heavy-duty tent on the market, but for 3-season usage, the design should be more than adequate. Plus, for the price listed, we think you simply can’t go wrong with this bright yellow beauty!
PROS
- Reasonably priced
- 2 large, dual-zipper doors
- Great cross-ventilation
- Setup in just 30 seconds!
- Integrated mesh storage pockets
- The doors can be turned into sunshades
- 3000mm waterproof rating
- 2-year product warranty
CONS
- Not the most heavy-duty, needs to be firmly secured in place
- Only available in bright yellow and bright blue (no muted colors)
- Not the most lightweight of backpacking tents
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11. KAZOO 6-Person Pop Up Tent
[amazon box=”B081J6P6MV”]
If you like the sound of the KAZOO 4-Person Tent (as listed above), but want more space for sleeping or gear storage, the 6-Person KAZOO Family Tent may be a better match. This style features the same high-end perks as the 4-person model, but with the added bonus of more sleeping area and headroom.
The KAZOO 6-Person Pop Up Tent measures 110″ x 118″ in floor area and has a center height of 73″. The total packing weight of the tent is 21.8 lbs – which is relatively modest for a tent with a 6-person capacity.
The tent features an instant setup in less than a minute, and come with a pre-assembled aluminum frame that ‘pops’ into place. The double-layer tent features a full mesh inner tent, enhanced with a full-coverage exterior rainfly with a 3000mm waterproof rating. The inner tent is made of no-see-um netting, keeping little critters and insects at bay. The spacious and roomy tent features two doors for easy entry/exit and two window flaps for excellent ventilation.
Just like the 4-Person KAZOO tent, this 6-Person Tent includes a 2-year product warranty, covering the tent against any manufacturing defects. Giving you the peace of mind that you’re buying a quality tent that’s guaranteed to live up to – and exceed – expectations.
PROS
- Reasonably priced
- 2 large, dual-zipper doors
- Great cross-ventilation
- Setup in just 30 seconds!
- The doors can be turned into sunshades
- Generous headroom
- Can fit 2 queen airbeds
- 3000mm waterproof rating
- 2-year product warranty
CONS
- Not the most heavy-duty, needs to be firmly secured in place
- Only available in bright blue color
- A bit heavy to carry
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12. Overwhelming 4-Person Pop up Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B07T8GBLPR”]
The Overwhelming 4-Person Pop up Camping Tent is a cheap and cheerful option for those on a budget. The affordable tent measures 80.7″ x 78.7″ in floor space and can fit 3-4 people. It has a 47″ center height and a total packing weight of just 8.5 lbs.
The 4-Person Pop up Camping Tent has a lightning-fast instant setup. Simply take this tent out of its carry bag and let it ‘pop-up’ – a process that only takes seconds. The instant tent by Overwelming comes with 4 windows: two plastic, and two mesh windows for proper ventilation. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that this budget-friendly tent comes with two doors: a front entry and a back entry. This means you don’t have to tip-toe around your camping buddies to quickly exit the tent. The D-style doors also enable further cross-ventilation, keeping the interior cool and comfy.
The 4-Person Pop up Camping Tent comes with lightweight fiberglass tentpoles, a 190T polyester shell, and a 210-denier floor. The tent has a waterproof rating of 3000mm-4000mm, which is surprisingly high for a tent at this price-point.
It’s not made by an expert name in outdoor gear, but for its affordable pricing and great Amazon reviews, we reckon it’s worth buying from an unknown brand. If you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly instant shelter without any assembly required (except attaching a few guylines to secure it), this is a fantastic deal.
PROS
- Super easy ‘pop up’ setup
- Budget-friendly
- 4 windows
- Front and back door for easy entry
- Excellent cross-ventilation
- 3000mm waterproof rating
CONS
- Not the most durable
- A bit on the small side for 4 people
- Not made by an established brand in outdoor gear
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13. MOON LENCE 4-Person Pop Up Tent
[amazon box=”B083HRJH6X”]
When it comes to affordability, the MOON LENCE 4-Person Pop Up Tent is one of the best budget deals on Amazon. This 4-person tent may not have all the bells and whistles of other premium backpacking tents, but when it comes to basic functionality, it more than ticks the box.
The MOON LENCE 4-Person Pop Up Tent Family Camping Tent measures 94.5″ x 82.6″ in floor area, with a center height of approximately 49″. The tent can fit up to four adults in regular-sized sleeping bags, though it’s limited on storage space. However, what it lacks in storage space and headroom, it more than makes up for in portability: as it only weighs 10.8 lbs when packed. The tent also includes a carry bag, allowing you to compress it down to a neat 32.7″ x 7.1″ x 7.1″ package.
Includes the essentials
Other perks of this budget-friendly favorite include 2 large doors with dual-sliding zippers and 2 ground vents for proper airflow. The tent also includes 10 alloy tent pegs and 4 guy ropes, allowing you to secure it in place. The tent includes a partial cover rainfly with a 2000 waterproof rating and is also equipped with a 210-denier Oxford floor.
This instant tent can be set up in about 60 seconds, ensuring a hassle-free camping experience. To erect the tent, simply lift the top portion, pop the top mechanism down, and let the joints click into place. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to quickly enjoy your instant shelter.
The MOON LENCE 4-Person Pop Up Tent Family Camping Tent also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring that the tent lives up to your expectations. It’s not the fanciest or most durable backpacking tent on the market, but for campers on a more limited budget, this is a worthwhile alternative.
PROS
- Super easy ‘pop up’ setup
- Can be pitched in 60 seconds
- Very budget-friendly
- 2 large doors with dual-sliding zippers
- Ground vents for airflow
- 2000mm waterproof rating
- 210-denier Oxford groundsheet
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes carry bag
CONS
- Only a partial-cover rainfly
- Not the most durable or sturdy
- Lacks storage options/storage spaces
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14. Hewolf 2-3 Person Instant Camping Tent
[amazon box=”B07F5GDGHC”]
The Hewolf 2-3 Person Instant Camping Tent is a versatile tent with an affordable price-tag. The silhouette can be used as a regular tent, but also work as a beach shelter. This is because the inner shell of the Hewolf tent is removable, which automatically turns the outer shell into a handy sunshade for great UV-protection.
This fastpitch tent features an instant popup design. The tent is super easy to erect and take down, thanks to its pre-assembled hub system. The poles and tent shell are pre-attached to the poles. To set up, simply unfold the tent like an umbrella. The hexagon-shaped Hewolf Instant Camping Tent measures 97.2″ in diameter with a center height of 54.3″ on the interior, and a total height of 66.1″. The tent weighs 12.2 lbs, ideal for backpacking trips.
Removable mesh inner tent
The Hewolf 2-3 Person Instant Camping Tent consists of two elements: a removable mesh inner tent and a waterproof outer rainfly. You can use both elements together, or separately. For example, when at the beach, remove the inner mesh tent to create a handy beach shelter. The outer shell offers UV-protection, whilst both sides can be opened for excellent cross-ventilation and a cool breeze.
Do note that the hexagon-shape of the tent makes it slightly less ergonomic to fit 3 adults. In fairness, 2 adults are probably the limit, though the tent is advertised as a 2-3 person tent. Also, this is not the best tent for strong winds. According to the manufacturer, the tent can withstand 15ph winds when firmly secured with guylines – which translates into: it’s a bit flimsy in bad weather conditions. That said, for its ease of setup and versatility as a tent and beach shelter, it could be worth the compromise! Also good to know: there is a limited lifetime warranty on the tent, which is always a pro.
PROS
- Super easy ‘pop up’ setup
- Very affordable
- Can be used as a beach shelter
- Removable inner mesh tent
- Excellent ventilation options
- Ample headroom
- Full-coverage rainfly
- Limited lifetime warranty
CONS
- A bit of a squeeze for 3 people
- Hexagon-shape not the most space-efficient
- A bit flimsy in high winds/strong winds
- Not the most durable or heavy-duty shelter
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15. Amazon Basics Pop-up Instant Beach Tent
[amazon box=”B07713LC9X”]
Looking for an instant tent to take to the beach? Then the Amazon Basics Pop-up Beach Tent is your top choice. This budget-friendly beach shelter lives up to its name: it’s basic but functional and super easy in setup. This pop-up instant beach tent offers ample UV-protection and sets up in mere seconds for maximum convenience. Granted, it’s not a heavy-duty, super-sturdy design, but on fair-weather days, this affordable basic is all you need for a day at the beach!
The Amazon Basics Pop-up Beach Tent Sun Shelter measures 65″ x 58.9″ in floor area, and 43.5″ in peak height. It can accommodate 2 people, but with a lot of beach gear, it may be a bit of a squeeze. That said, for single-person use, or as a handy instant beach tent for kids, the Amazon Basics Pop-up Beach Shelter is simply ideal. We like that this pop-up tent comes with an extended front floor, which allows you to spread out if desired.
Great for a day at the beach!
The Amazon Basics Pop-up Beach Tent Sun Shelter is made of nylon and features an open-front silhouette. This does mean that for regular camping, the tent is not recommended. However, for a day at the beach, it’s a fantastic accessory. The lightweight silhouette also comes with a large mesh window at the back, which enables excellent ventilation.
The setup of the Amazon Basics Pop-up Beach Tent couldn’t be simpler. The 3-sided tent sets up in mere seconds, without requiring any assembly. Just take the beach shelter out of its carrying case (included) and place it on the ground/sand. The pop-up tent will quickly unfold into its full-sized shape. Also good to know: this tent includes a sandbag anchor and ground stakes, enabling you to stabilize it and secure it in place.
Do note that this lightweight instant beach tent is not intended for use in strong winds. The tent even comes with a warning by the manufacturer that advises to, ‘promptly take down or do not set up the tent in the event of strong winds or a storm.’ This means that if you’re looking for a heavy-duty beach shelter, this isn’t it. However, if you’re looking for a cheap, cheerful, and basic shelter with minimal setup and instant UV-protection, this may be your ideal fit.
PROS
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Large mesh window
- Pop-up setup
- Extendable floor
- No assembly required
CONS
- Can feel a bit flimsy
- Only suited for beach camping/as a sun shelter
- Not suited for windy conditions
- Cannot be fully closed off (3-sided silhouette)
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What is an Instant Tent?
Before we dive into our overview of the best products on the market, let’s quickly answer one important question: ‘What is an instant tent?’ We often get asked this question by readers, and to be honest, there isn’t one simple answer – as the term ‘instant tent’ is used differently by manufacturers and outdoor brands. That said, we can summarize what we mean when we talk about instant tents (as in this overview):
A time-saving alternative
An instant tent is a tent that comes with part of the frame (or the entire frame) pre-assembled, allowing for nearly instant setup. Where regular camping tents come with separate tentpoles, instant tents often feature pre-attached poles – enabling you to save a lot of time when pitching the tent. Instead of having to figure out which pole and/or pin goes where you simply need to unfold and/or extend an instant tent’s frame to set it up. Some instant tents feature a ‘pop up’ mechanism, which automatically expands the frame into shape. Other’s may feature a telescoping pole frame, which only needs to be extended and locked into place to set up fully.
Great for beginners AND experienced campers
Though the mechanisms and techniques can vary, there is one thing all instant tents have in common: they help you save a lot of time when setting up camp. Whether you’re a beginner to camping, who doesn’t feel comfortable pitching a large tent with zero experience; or an experienced backpacker that simply doesn’t want that hassle of a laborious tent set up after long day hiking trails: an instant tent is always a great, time-saving upgrade to your camping experience!
Discover the top-rated deals
In this Best Instant Tents Overview, we’ve included all kinds (and sizes) of instant tents, including pop-up tents and telescoping/extendable frames, ensuring there’s the right kind of instant tent for every camper, and occasion. Get reading, get inspired, and get informed about the fantastic benefits of instant tents below:
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Verdict
Every product in this Best Instant Tents Overview could be your ‘best’ match, depending on which buying factors are most important to you. If you’re looking for a small, backpacking-friendly instant tent with minimal packing weight; consider one of the 2 or 3-person pop-up tents on this list. If you’re looking for a more sturdy, large tent for family camping, the 6-person, 8-person, or even 12-person options by Coleman, and CORE, could be a perfect solution. And for those in between, styles like the 4-person or 6-person KAZOO pop-up tents may be the ideal match.
Rest assured: every tent on this list is worthy of your time, money, and attention. We’ve only included products that score highly in Amazon reviews and come recommended by other campers for their comfort, value-for-money, and – of course – easy of setup. Every tent in this overview can be pitched in 10 minutes or less, whilst some tent can even be pitched in under a minute – for example, the Overwhelming 4-Person Pop-up Camping Tent.
All you need to do to score the best deal is determine which of these 15 instant tents fits your camping needs best. Firstly, determine how many sleeping spaces you want. Secondly, determine how much you’re willing to spend. These two questions will already narrow down your search selection drastically, leaving you with a few top contenders – all worthy of the investment. Simply choose the style you like most and voila: you’re just secured yourself a fantastic deal!
Winner
[amazon table=”14815″]
Picking a winner from this Best Instant Tents line-up is a real challenge, as each product has its specific pros and cons. That said, we do have a favorite: the Coleman Fastpitch 2-Person Pop-Up Tent. For us, this instant tent by Coleman wins when it comes to lightning-quick setup and lightweight appeal. It’s ideal for backpacking, very portable, and makes setting up camp a breeze.
The Coleman Fastpitch 2-Person Pop-up Tent ticks all the boxes for a great backpacking tent: it’s ultralight, includes a high-quality rainfly, features zipper weather protection, has taped seams and a waterproof floor, and offers great ventilation options. Additionally, the tent is made by an established and trusted name in outdoor gear, which gives you the peace of mind that you’re buying an authentic product that lives up to high-quality standards. Plus, did we already mention how incredibly easy this tent is setup? Yes, we know we did – but it truly is one of the tent’s biggest selling features.
Bonus tip:To see how quickly and easily our winner sets up, watch this handy clip:
Recap
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Riley Draper
Riley Draper is a writer and entrepreneur from Chattanooga, Tennessee. As a world traveler, he has been to more than fifty countries and hiked some of the most elusive trails in the world. He is the co-founder of WeCounsel Solutions and has published work in both national and global outlets, including the Times Free Press, Patch, and Healthcare Global. When he’s not writing, he’s probably on a hiking trip or climbing in the mountains.