If you’re a camping beginner, an experienced camper who hates the hassle of setting up a tent, looking for a more convenient way to camp, or want something kid-friendly for the backyard, a pop up tent may be just what you’re looking for.
Pop up tents take out a lot of the legwork of camping. Typically, they’re ready to use when you open them up, with no need to build the frame yourself.
Even though these tents themselves are convenient, finding one to purchase may not be. With so many options out there, there is a lot to consider.
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve rounded up the five best pop up tents for camping. Keep reading to see our picks!
Our Top Pop Up Tent Picks
Best Overall:
Toogh Pop-Up
Best Budget Option:
Ubon Pop Up Tent
Most Durable Choice:
Gazelle T4 Pop-Up Tent
Best Overall
Toogh Pop-Up Tent
The Toough Pop-Up Tent takes the cake as best overall for its design, durability, and special features that add extra quality and convenience.
Features
- Includes one carrying bag, one inner tent, 14 tent stakes, eight wind ropes, and a canopy
- Five feet, five inches tall at the center of the tent
- The tent has a 3000 mm waterproof level, and the floor has a 10000 mm waterproof level.
- Comes in eight colors
To set it up, all you have to do is remove the tent from its carrying bag, lay it out, and straighten the poles upright in the center. From there, you grab the top piece, separate the bars, and spread it out to get everything in place. Slide the lock down to lock it into place, and your tent is up!
Then, all you need to do is use the stakes to pin down the corners and add the wind ropes for extra stability if you choose.
This tent is great to use in any season. With a waterproof fabric and a hexagonal design that provides stability in wind, you can rest assured that you will be protected in mild rain or wind.
This tent can accommodate up to four people (two adults and two children), making it great for families or couples who want a bit of extra space.
Pros
- Quick and easy setup takes just one minute for experienced campers or five minutes for beginners
- One reviewer notes that it’s as easy to set up as an umbrella.
- Mosquito nets are an extra feature that adds protection from bugs.
Cons
- Even though it claims to have a four-person occupancy, reviewers note that this isn’t realistic. It can comfortably fit two or three adults, or two adults and a couple of small children.
- Some customers note that the zippers are lower quality and not easy to use
Best Budget Option
Ubon Pop Up Tent
The Ubon pop-up tent is a great budget option for light camping, indoor shelter, building forts with kids, and more.
Features
- Comes in three different colors
- The fabric has UV protection.
To set up this tent, remove it from the storage bag, grab the white poles, pull out the lock, and watch it open up! From there, just flip it upside-down and assemble the remaining accessories, like the stakes.
One of the Ubon tent’s best features is its large windows and doors. With two large D-shaped doors and an overhead canopy, it’s great for getting fresh air and even stargazing at night. Plus, the mesh coverings keep the bugs out, even while the breeze comes in.
This tent comes in two different sizes, one that can fit two people and one that can fit three. Depending on how you use it, some reviewers note it’s pretty roomy!
Pros
- Extremely easy and convenient setup, since it comes mostly set up already
- Lightweight, weighing under four pounds
- Comes with a carrying case that has straps, making it convenient for backpacking
Cons
- It’s water resistant but not waterproof.
- The mesh coverings for the doors and windows keep out larger bugs, but they may not keep out smaller bugs, like noseeums.
- Some reviewers recommend bringing your own tarp to place underneath the tent, as this feature is not included.
Best for Durability
Gazelle T4 Pop-Up Tent
If you’re looking for durability, look no further than the Gazelle T4! This pop-up tent is made of high-quality material, including even the rainfly, zippers, and storage bag.
Features
- Includes tent, oversized duffel, and 12 stakes
- Made with waterproof material that also has UV protection
- Has a waterproof rainfly
- Has two doors and six windows
- Has a removable floor that allows you to shake out dirt and sand
To set up this tent, remove it from the duffel bag, spread it out on the ground, pop out the wall hubs, and pop out the roof panel. If you’re using the rainfly, make sure to put it on before you raise the roof; otherwise, it won’t fit over the top.
In addition to its durability, this pop-up tent stands out for how spacious it is. It can fit up to four people, has 61 square feet of space, and is tall enough for most people to stand inside. It also has plenty of storage, including a removable mesh loft, side storage nets, and pouches mounted on the walls.
As a bonus, this tent also has six windows and two doors for plenty of ventilation.
Pros
- At 6.5 feet in the center, this is one of the few pop-up tents that’s tall enough to stand in, even at the walls.
- Can be set up and taken down in 90 seconds
- Has an extra-durable zipper
Cons
- Weighs 30 pounds, making it the heaviest option on this list
- Even when it’s collapsed, it’s 5.5 feet long, which may make it too big to transport in some cars
Best for Backpacking
Londtren
The Londtren pop-up tent is lightweight and durable, making it the best pop up tent for backpacking.
Features
- Includes tent, carrying case, tie-down ropes, and ten stakes
- 3000 mm waterproof level, meaning it can withstand light rain
- Two double-layer doors provide ventilation and keep out bugs when needed
- Comes in three colors
At 12 pounds, this pop-up tent is lightweight enough to carry in your backpack. Although it is heavier than other options, its waterproof and tear-proof fabric makes it resilient, and its seams are sealed for extra protection.
To set up the Londtren pop-up tent, all you have to do is unzip the carrying case, pull out the tent, remove the band that holds it together, and let go. Then, watch it pop up in front of you!
The manufacturer describes the tent as a four-person tent, but most reviewers agree that three people is more realistic. Some campers even use it for just one or two people and enjoy the extra space.
Pros
- Basically sets itself up for extra ease
- Roomy and large enough for three air mattresses, according to one reviewer
- Wind resistant up to 20 or 30 miles per hour
Cons
- Some reviewers say it’s difficult to fold and pack up
- Large when folded up
Best for Couples
Coleman Pop-Up Tent
This pop-up tent from Coleman is a great option for couples. Coming in two different sizes, it provides the flexibility needed so that there’s something for everyone!
Features
- Includes the tent, storage bag, and adjustable rainfly
- Comes in two colors
The two-person version is conveniently sized and relatively cheap, but the four-person option will provide some extra room (it probably won’t actually fit four people, so it’s perfect for couples who want a little extra space).
Similar to the previous tent on the list, this tent does all the work for you. All you have to do is remove it from the bag and watch it pop up on the spot.
It has excellent ventilation, with a mesh top and windows that provide fresh air and allows for stargazing at night. And an adjustable rainfly keeps you protected from wind and rain when needed.
Pros
- Lightweight, weighing just under six pounds
- It pops up quickly, with minimal work needed. All you really need to do is add the stakes!
- It comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Cons
- Although it’s good for light camping, it’s not suitable for wilderness camping or backpacking
- Can be difficult to put away
- Reviewers note you may need to purchase a separate tarp for added protection underneath the tent.
Pop Up Tent Buyer’s Guide
If you’re still unsure which pop up tent is right for you, here are some factors to consider:
Size of Your Tent
The size of your pop up tent is one of the most important factors to consider. This includes both its full size when assembled, and how big it is when it’s folded up!
Consider the number of people you will typically go camping with. Will you stay in the tent by yourself, with a partner, or with your family? How many people does it need to accommodate? And does it need to fit an air mattress, or will you be using sleeping bags?
Depending on your answer to these questions, you’ll need to find a pop up tent that can accommodate what you need! Some tents, like the Coleman tent above, are fairly small, while others, like the Gazelle T4 are much more spacious!
In addition, you should consider how large the tent is when stored, as this may impact transportation and how you can use it. For example, if you plan to take your pop up tent backpacking, you’ll need it to be small enough to fit on your back or inside a backpack.
If you’re planning to drive to your campsite, you should make sure it can fit in your car (especially if your car will be loaded with lots of other gear and supplies).
Weight
Although it’s closely related to the size of your tent, the weight is something you need to think about, too. The weight of pop up tents can vary substantially, with tents on this list weighing anywhere from four to 30 pounds.
If you’re driving to your camping destination or staying close to home, weight may not matter too much. However, if you’re hiking or backpacking with your tent, you may opt for something more lightweight.
In addition, you should consider the materials that make up your tent. Although it’s not always the case, lighter-weight tents may be made with less durable materials, whereas heavier tents may have more space, features, and durability.
Material
The material that your pop up tent is made of is another important factor to consider. The fabric and other details that make up your tent can impact its weight, durability, weather resistance, and more.
For example, some tents are made of waterproof materials. And even among these, the level of waterproofness can vary. For example, tents that boast a 3000 mm waterproof level can really only withstand light rain, whereas a 10000 mm waterproof level is more suitable in medium and heavy rains.
Additionally, if sun exposure is a concern, look for tents with UV-blocking material. Oftentimes, manufacturers will list the UV protection rating in their descriptions.
Tent Style
Pop up tents come in different styles, offering different amounts of space and different features.
One thing to consider as it relates to style is the shape of your tent. Different shapes have different benefits. For example, some shapes comfortably fit an air mattress (or several), whereas others may not, even if it seems like a roomy tent otherwise.
Additionally, some tents are taller at the center, offering room to stand. Other tents might be wider, with more room to lie down and spread out your belongings.
Lastly, different styles of tents can have different features. Some may come with a rainfly, some have extra doors or windows, some have extra storage, and some have just the basics. Make sure to think through what makes sense for your needs and preferred camping style!
How Much It Costs
Although there are great budget options out there, you often get what you pay for.
If you need something kid-friendly or for casual camping, budget options may be perfect for you. But for more frequent use or more serious camping, consider spending a bit more for higher-quality products that will last.
What It’s Best Used For
Based on all of the above factors, different pop-up tents are ultimately best used for different purposes. For example, while some can be used for hiking and backpacking, others are best for lighter, casual camping. Some are water and wind-resistant, and others offer sun protection.
Think about the type of camping you enjoy, and select a tent that meets those needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pop Up Tents
Are pop up tents good for camping?
Pop up tents are a good option for many types of camping. They’re extremely convenient and great for beginners since they take a lot of the hard work out of pitching a tent.
However, these tents aren’t ideal for all types of camping. Pop up tents are often not as sturdy as regular tents with more durable frames. So if it’s particularly windy, they may not be a great option.
Additionally, even when they’re folded up, they can take up a lot of space. Most pop up tents can’t fit inside a backpack, so they’re better suited for drive-up camping. If you do take it backpacking, you may need to carry it separately.
Are pop-up tents waterproof?
Some pop up tents are waterproof, but not all are. When choosing a pop up tent, look for a waterproof rating that tells you just how much water and rain the tent can withstand.
If you’re looking at a tent that’s not fully waterproof, or you want to enhance the waterproof level of your tent, check out our guide to How to Waterproof a Tent.
What other types of tents are there?
If you’re unsure whether a pop up tent is for you, there are plenty of other options out there. Some common tent types include dome tents, cabin tents, geodesic tents, A-frame or ridge tents, car-top tents, and pyramid tents.
A Convenient Way to Camp
Pop up tents offer many advantages that make them a great option for convenient camping. If you’re a casual camper or a beginner, we hope this guide to the best pop up tents has been useful for you!
Interested in more camping content and tips for tent camping? Visit our Tent Camping page for more reviews, how-to guides, and tips for getting the most out of your camping trip!
