For finding the best instant tent, we tested 5 instant tents that are the most popular. After extensive testing and viewing the results, we have found that the Coleman Instant Cabin Tent is the best overall instant tent.
Since camping is a passion for us, finding the best instant tent was very important for us. To ensure that we find the best companion for our next camping trip, we had to properly compare different tents.
When going out in groups, the most important thing to see is the ease of setup and occupancy of the tents. Our best overall choice, the Coleman Instant Cabin Tent, has 6 people occupant and is quite spacious.
In the article, you will find other best instant tents that are also very good. We have provided a detailed review of the different instant tents that are popular in the market. Read on to find the most suitable instant tent.
Best Instant Tents Reviews 2021
Coleman Instant Cabin Tent
Capacity
The Coleman Instant Cabin Tent is a 6 person tent that stands up to its name. You can set up this cabin-style tent very easily and within under a minute. Since this tent is suitable for 6 people, it is quite spacious.
Design
The Coleman tent is made from high-quality materials that make it very durable. This is a freestanding tent where the surface does not bother the support of the tent. The height of the tent is 1.88 m or 6 ft 2 inches. Another interesting feature of the tent is the in-built fly, and the walls and roofs are waterproof.
The tent is a 3 season tent and is equipped with huge windows. These windows are necessary to provide proper ventilation in the absence of mesh material on the walls. Since the tent is freestanding, it can be moved or rotated as needed.
The tent’s floor size is 3 m x 2.7 m or 10 ft x 9 ft, which is perfect for accommodating 6 sleeping bags. This company uses the WeatherTec patented system, which consists of inverted seams and welded floors. There are also two vents on the tent’s roof, which need to be closed during rainfall.
A great feature of the Coleman tent is that it blocks 90% of the sunlight. This means you do not have to get up early due to the sunlight. Moreover, this thickness helps in keeping the heat from entering the tent. This ensures that the tent stays cool and you can sleep well.
Specifications
- Type: 3-season freestanding instant cabin style
- Capacity: 6 people
- Weight: 11.4 kg / 24.9 lbs
- Dimensions: 305 cm x 274 cm / 10 ft x 9 ft
- Area: 8.4 sq. m. / 90 sq. ft.
- Area per Person: 1.4 sq. m. / 15 sq. ft.
- Peak Height: 1.88 m / 6 ft 2 in
- Packed Size (L X D): 122 cm x 23 cm / 48 in x 9 in
- Warranty: 1 year
- Material: 150D Polyester
Pros
- Very durable tent at an affordable price range
- Perfect for two queen-sized bed or six sleeping bags
- Made from poly guard fabric and 150D polyester seams
- Quick and easy setup, so no time is wasted in checking the setup manual
Cons
- Backpackers may find the tent to be slightly heavy
- Door zippers may sometimes get stuck
Toogh 3-4 Person Pop-Up Hexagon Tent
Capacity
The Toogh Pop-Up Hexagon Tent is perfect for three to four people. This occupancy is dependent on the people who will be sharing the tent. If adults are sharing the pop up tent, then it would be better for three people. However, adding another kid to this group would be fine.
Design
The first excellent feature of the tent is its waterproof quality material. When camping outdoors, the one worrisome thing is rainfall. This is solved with the sturdy material used in the tent. Made from patented 210D material with a 3000 mm HH rating, this tent is your perfect camping companion.
There are two doors in the tent, which makes it highly ventilated. You will not have to worry about heat building up in the tent due to these doors. Moreover, mosquito and bug bites are very common when camping outdoors. The dense mosquito net present in the tent solves this issue.
The tent is perfect for every weather that includes both rainfall and snowfall. Another very attractive thing about this pop up tent is the hexagon design. This is a pop-up structure that is extremely easy to setup. Not just that, taking down the tent requires just a push, and you are good to go.
Despite the dense material used in the tent, there will be no issues with airflow. Even when the two doors are closed due to rain, you will not feel suffocated. There are mesh nets in the tent which take care of the airflow inside the tent.
The price of the tent is very affordable compared to the features that are provided. Moreover, this tent is available in various color options. This lightweight tent is perfect for any trip, whether you are backpacking or driving.
Specifications
- Type: Pop-up Tent
- Capacity: 3-4 person
- Weight: 7.72 lbs / 3.5 kg
- Dimensions: 95 in x 82 in x 53 in
- Area: 281 sq. in.
- Peak Height: 74 in
- Packed Size: 7 in x 9.4 in x 31.5 in
- Warranty: 1 year
- Material: 210 T + Oxford
Pros
- Pop-up tent which makes setup and takedown very easy
- Two doors that provide excellent ventilation
- Coating is waterproof
- The fabric used is highly durable
Cons
- Space may become congested
- The hexagon structure is not suitable for four people
CORE 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
Capacity
The Core Instant Cabin Tent has one of the largest capacities, that is, 9 people. This particular tent is perfect for a group of friends or a moderate-sized family with kids and pets. There are two rooms in the tent which are separated by a partition.
Design
The setup time for the tent is 60 seconds or one minute. This is a freestanding tent where the surface would not affect the proper support. You can move or rotate the tent as you wish. The tent is available at a great price. Moreover, the setup time is reduced due to the frame that is pre-assembled.
The tent’s main poles are telescopic, which means you will hear a click sound when extending the tent. This lets you know that you have reached the full length of the tent effectively. Once all the six poles are extended, you can raise the inner tent completely.
Another great thing about the tent is the two-room partition. Due to the 9 person occupancy, the tent has been divided into two parts. This is great for a group that has mixed-gender people who might need their privacy. The zipper windows keep the insides cool and ventilated at all times.
The tent is 2 or 3 seasons which means that it can function effectively in normal weather and heavy wind or rain. However, this may not be a very appropriate tent to be used in snowfall. Moreover, the tent can be effectively set up in any terrain without any issues due to its freestanding nature.
Specifications
- Type: 3-season, instant setup freestanding tent
- Capacity: 9 people
- Weight: 16.3 kg / 35.15 lbs
- Dimensions: 4.2 m x 2.4 m / 14 ft x 9 ft
- Area: 11.7 sq. m. / 126 sq. ft.
- Area per Person: 1.3 sq. m. / 14 sq. ft.
- Peak Height: 1.98 m / 78 in
- Packed Size: 122 cm x 28 cm x 27 cm / 48 in x 11 in x 10.5 in
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The inside is very spacious for moderate-sized groups
- Four walls can be opened to provide ventilation
- Mesh windows protect from mosquito and bug bites
- The T-style large front door prevents crouching when exiting or entering
Cons
- Not suitable for harsh conditions
- Thin floor material
QOMOTOP 4-Person Instant Tent
Capacity
The QOMOTOP 4-person instant tent is the smallest of what this brand provides. You can find other large capacities of this model. However, the four-person model is perfect for small friend groups or two adults with a kid and pet. This is a cabin-designed tent that has a tall structure.
Design
If you are looking for a well-proportioned, tall and elegant structure, then the QOMOTOP instant tent is the one for you. With an amazing peak height of 150 cm, this tent is suitable for most people. For moderate-sized people, there will be proper headroom when inside the tent. The tent can fit one queen-sized bed very comfortably.
All four sides are equipped with large windows that keep the insides perfectly ventilated. Though the tent has only one door, it is large enough for one tent of this size. One of the most amazing features is the under a minute setup. You do not need to read complicated manual books to set up the tent.
The tent has telescopic poles, and the frame is attached to the tent permanently. You have to extend the poles, and you are all set. Since the material is synthetic, most people worry about proper ventilation. The windows are equipped with mesh, which prevents bugs’ entry, and you can keep them open for airflow.
If you are in a rainy situation where you need to close the windows, you may have ventilation problems. This is solved with the floor vent present on the tent’s rear side. This tent has a waterproof rating of 600 mm.
Specifications
- Type: Instant tent
- Capacity: 4 people
- Weight: 7.6 kg / 16.75 lbs
- Dimensions: 244 cm x 244 cm / 8 ft x 8 ft
- Area: 5.95 sq. m. / 64 sq. ft.
- Area per Person: 1.49 sq. m. / 16 sq. ft.
- Peak Height: 150 cm / 59 in
- Packed Size: 98 cm x 18 cm x 18 cm / 38.6 in x 7.1 in / 71 inc
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Under a minute setup of the tent
- Perfect for fitting one queen-size bed inside the tent
- Lines are color-coded to show the corners for attaching rain fly
- Equipped with an electrical charging port
Cons
- The water-resistance rating is less
- Zippers are not very durable
MOON LENCE Pop-Up Tent
Capacity
The MOON LENCE pop-up tent is a 4 person tent with good space. This is a very simple instant tent that is perfect for small friend groups. The lightweight tent can be carried easily, even when you are backpacking. Moreover, the MOON LENCE tent is very durable and can withstand most seasonal conditions.
Design
The tent’s setup is not much of a hassle and can be done in less than 60 seconds. Since this tent is very lightweight, you will not have to put extra effort into handling it. Just two people can easily pitch this tent. Moreover, the tent has bottom joints and a frame top-up that needs to be put into position.
Another great thing about the tent is the 210D Oxford and 190T polyester construction. The waterproof rating of the tent is 2000 mm, which is great. You will also find that the tent is resistant to UV rays and harsh sunlight. This lets you sleep in the morning even when the sun has risen.
The tent is claimed to be for 3 seasons, but you will find it best suited for moderate conditions. It is best to avoid using the tent in harsh conditions, or it may not sustain. The ventilation feature of the tent is very nice, which lets the airflow properly. There are two windows with a mesh setting and two vents.
Even if you need to keep the doors closed during rainfall, the vents will keep the tent ventilated. Another great thing about the tent is the freestanding feature which lets you set up on any surface effectively.
Specifications
- Type: Instant setup, pop-up tent
- Capacity: 4 people
- Weight: 4.9 kg / 10.8 lbs
- Dimensions: 240 cm x 210 cm / 94.5 in x 82.6 in
- Area: 5 sq. m. / 53.8 sq. ft.
- Area per Person: 1.25 sq. m / 13.4 sq. ft.
- Peak Height: 125 cm / 49.2 in
- Packed Size (L X D): 83 cm x 18 cm / 32.7 in x 71. in
- Material: 100% polyester, 190 T PU, 210D Oxford Ground Sheet
Pros
- Equipped with numerous storage pockets to keep your necessary camping items
- UV ray resistant, which keeps your tent inside cool
- Water-resistant, which is safe during rainfall
- Setup does not take more than 60 seconds
Cons
- Space is actually not enough for four people
- The poles are made from fiberglass
How to choose an Instant Camping Tent?
Choosing an instant tent is not that easy, especially with hundreds of options available. With the above list of best instant tents, you will be able to make a better decision. All these tents are the best ones that you can find in the market.
Before buying an instant tent, you should be clear about its purpose in your life. Do you go camping all the time? Or do you only want to try it and not sure if you will continue to camp in the future? In both cases, you will need a different type of instant tent with all the features for your needs.
You don’t have to buy a costly, super-large, or heavyweight instant tent if you only need them for a short time. Go for the tent that ensures an enjoyable and memorable experience. However, if you are planning multiple camping trips, you probably need to research and look for the best tent available within your budget.
Buying Guide
While looking for instant tents, you have plenty of options available to meet your requirements. But with more options, it becomes challenging to select the most suitable one for camping.
Once you know what you need in an instant tent, you can research and look for the best ones in the market. Below are the factors you need to consider while purchasing an instant tent for your camping trips. These factors will make it easier for you to decide which tent is right for you.
Tent Seasons
If you are a newbie in camping, you probably don’t know about tent seasons. There are four tent seasons with unique features to work in different seasons.
1-Season Tents
1-season tents are thin and the most basic ones available out there. They do not have a rainfly and are made, especially for camping in summer. These tents cannot withstand heavy rainfall, but you can stretch them to use in mild temperatures. You should read our guide here on best tents for summer camping.
2-Season Tents
2-season tents are great during the hotter days of the year. The airflow in these tents is smooth due to their mesh and ventilation flaps. You can use a 2-season tent in mild rain but avoid it during harsh weather and thunderstorms.
3-Season Tents
3-season tents work best in milder weather conditions like summer, early fall, or late spring. The mesh panels in these tents ensure better airflow and keep the insects outside your tent. Moreover, the rainfly attached to 3-season tents can withstand rain but would collapse in thunderstorms and heavy snowfall.
4-Season Tents
4-season tents can cope with rain, snowfall, and strong winds no matter what time of year. It has more poles and is much sturdier than other types of tents during cold weather. The fabric of a 4-season tent is heavy, and the round home design prevents snow.
Ease of Use
Since you are going camping to enjoy, you would not want to waste all your time setting up the tent. Neither would you like to put a lot of effort into setting up the instant tent for camping?
If you are going with a group, you can set up an instant tent within a few seconds. However, if you are alone, buy the instant tent that is ready in 60 seconds or less and does not demand much energy. So, make sure you purchase a simple, easy-to-set instant tent for a better camping experience.
Some instant tents even take 5-10 minutes to stand, which is a lot faster than regular tents. However, you have to avoid these tents as you cannot waste your time and efforts on setting and packing them up.
Design and Fabric
Instant tents come in various types of designs and fabrics, with each one having its pros and cons. These designs include dome tent, hoop, wedge, and A-frame. Mostly, you will find the dome-shaped ones much easier to set up and save time.
The type of camping tent a camper should buy depends on the design and fabric that he/she prefers. Ideally, you should choose the material that does not get destroyed after every camping trip. This way, you can get the best instant tent within your budget without having to replace it or get it repaired regularly.
An instant tent made with high-quality material can withstand heavy weather such as rainstorms and strong winds. Moreover, the tent will last long if the rainfly and cover are made with quality fabric.
Size and Sleeping Capacity
While buying an instant pop up tent, you need to look for the right size, the most important factor. You can tell how many people can fit inside the tent just by looking at its size and dimensions.
So, you should know the number of people using your instant tent before you decide which one is best to suit your needs. A large, queen-sized instant tent can easily fit 6 to 7 people at a time if you are looking for a tent to go camping with your friends.
A bigger tent also means that everyone can comfortably fit inside, and more space for your beds and camping equipment.
Doors and Windows
Doors can affect the ventilation and comfort level of your instant camping tent. That is why you need to check how many doors and windows your tent has. With two doors, you will get better ventilation than the one with a single entry.
Choose a tent with multiple doors if you are looking for a large instant tent. You can even get a 4-door instant tent or go with the one having a single door only. Just remember to close the covers while packing it to make sure it does not collect dust.
Also, it would be best if you fit each entrance door with a flap to make sure no one enters while you’re changing or sleeping peacefully in your tent.
Price
Instant tents are available in different price ranges from cheaper to expensive ones. It is obvious that the ones with high-quality material are much more expensive than others. A high-priced tent also comes with higher durability and additional features such as a rainfly.
So, price is a crucial factor while buying an instant tent, especially when you are new to camping. In this case, you may not want to spend too much on the tent as you are not sure if you will continue camping in the future.
But if you are a regular camper looking for a durable tent, you probably need better features. So you can go for expensive instant tents to meet your camping requirements.
Poles
Different types of instant tents will have varying sizes of poles that give structure to the tent. Bigger tents usually have steel poles that are strong but weigh a lot and hard to repair. However, they ensure higher durability of the tent than any other type of pole.
Fiberglass poles can be easily repaired and are the most common ones you can find in an instant tent. These poles need extra care as they can easily break. Alloy poles are pretty expensive but are lightweight and robust enough to hold the tent during heavy rainfall.
Weight and Portability
When buying instant tents for camping, both weight and portability will matter. If your tent is lightweight, you can place or move it wherever and whenever you want. However, a lighter one will not last long and cannot perform well in strong winds or rainfall.
On the other hand, heavyweight instant tents might be difficult to carry, but they ensure longevity as well as durability. You should buy a tent that you can store and transport easily from one place to another.
While buying instant tents, people often ignore the portability factor, which is equally important as others. If you are going camping without a car, you would need a tent that is compact when folded into a backpack.
Height
Height is yet another essential factor that you need to consider while purchasing an instant tent. If your tent’s structure and height do no match, it will not be able to hold itself during harsh weather conditions.
So, the higher the tent’s height, the better will it perform in extreme weather. However, dome instant tents are lower in height even though they perform much better than other tents in extreme conditions.
Brand
It does not matter what brand’s tent you buy if you are only buying an instant tent for occasional camping trips. However, if you go out camping more often, you need to look for the best brands that make durable tents.
A regular camper needs a reliable tent that lasts for years and ensures a smooth experience every time they go camping. Some of the renowned brands include Coleman, CORE, KingCamp, MOON LENCE, etc.
Ventilation
Ventilation, often ignored by newbie campers, is an essential aspect of an instant tent. In hot weather, the temperature inside your tent is at least 15 degrees higher than the outside temperature. So, the vents in the tent allow maximum airflow so that you can breathe properly when windows are closed.
You have to shut the doors and windows at night as you cannot put your equipment at risk while sleeping. Even during rainfall, the windows of your instant should not be open. In these cases, the vents will allow the air to flow properly, and you won’t have to struggle for air.
The smart ventilation structure pulls the fresh air inside your tent from the floor and lets out the warm air through the mesh ceiling.
Storage Area
Your instant tent must have enough storage space to keep your gear and other essentials safe. Some tents have a canopy, while others use a small vestibule for storing shoes, clothes, and food.
Pockets are the most common storage facility in instant tents. However, if you did not bring a car to your trip for storage, you should buy the tent with a vestibule. Vestibules are spacious and can store your boots and clothes to save them from rain.
Darkroom and LED Lighting
If you often go family camping with your children, a darkroom tent can come in handy. It can block 70-80% of the sunlight, saving those who are sensitive to the sun. The technology can also protect you from the heat during hot camping days.
You can even sleep during the daytime if your tent has the darkroom feature as it prevents any type of light that targets your eyes. Moreover, it decreases the temperature inside your tent by at least 10-15%.
Tents with the LED lighting system provide you light when you are camping at night. It can be helpful when you want to read a book before sleep. You can even adjust its brightness and set it at the required level.
Both these features are additional features bonus to your instant tent and are mostly available in high-quality and expensive tents.
Conclusion
With the list of best instant tents and the buying guide, you can buy one without any difficulties. Just make sure the tent you purchase has all the features you need for your camping trips.
Coleman Instant Cabin Tent will be an ideal option if you are looking for a durable, large-sized instant tent at a reasonable price. This instant tent is easy to set up and saves a lot of your time on the trip.
This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI
