Jill A. Chafin
Spending time outside is a great way to bond with your family this summer. These five sturdy, weatherproof tents will make your next family adventure as easy and comfortable as possible.
Not ready to travel just yet? That’s okay! You can camp out right in your own backyard. Grill up some burgers, roast some gooey marshmallows, and snuggle up for a night under the stars.
We selected the tents below because they’re durable, made by trusted brands, and quick easy to set up, allowing you more time for family fun. They also have plenty of space and will provide excellent protection from the elements.
What to Look for in a Tent?
Searching for the perfect tent for your fam can be downright overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help! Let’s take a look at some key features to keep in mind while you shop.
Size
If a tent boasts that it can fit 10 people, you might assume it’s going to be massive. However, the actual size specifications will likely only work if everyone is packed in like sardines, sleeping shoulder-to-shoulder.
If you want to sleep with space and comfort, reduce the size specifications by about half. For example, a six-person tent will really only work for around three adults.
When calculating family size, though, keep in mind that younger children can squeeze in closer together. In that case, a six-person tent would, theoretically, fit two adults and two or three small children.
If there’s a chance your family might expand in the future—or you want to include the cousins and your friends on your camping excursions—definitely size up.
There are a few downsides to purchasing a larger tent. They generally weigh more, take longer to set up, and take up more space. However, if you’ll simply be pitching it in your backyard, or driving to a campsite, these issues shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
Although larger tents cost more, the price difference is usually comparable. So, when in doubt, size up!
Rooms
Many family tents include room dividers, so the kids can sleep separately from the adults. This is perfect if you want a little “couple” time at the end of a long day.
Alternatively, you can use one room for sleeping, the second for playing cards, and the third for dressing. This gives everyone a bit more privacy or peace and quiet when they need it.
The room dividers are removable, giving you the flexibility of different setup options.
Weatherproofing
Pay close attention to the size of the rainfly. You want to make sure it adequately covers the tent for ultimate weather protection.
Spend some time reading the reviews before you purchase your tent. If a lot of people complain about waking up soggy and wet, keep searching.
You can always add an extra layer of protection by laying a tarp under your tent, as well as increasing its weatherproofing with a waterproof spray.
A Screened-In Area
A tent with a screened-in room is a real bonus! Trust us, you’ll appreciate the enclosed, breathable space when the bugs get out of control or you’re caught in an unexpected downpour.
Coleman Sundome Tent
The Coleman Sundome six-person tent is ideal for two adults, and two to three small children. It measures 10 feet x 10 feet and can comfortably fit two queen-size air mattresses. Plus, it has a six-foot ceiling in the center, allowing most adults enough space to stand up inside.
You can’t beat its ultra-lightweight design, making it the perfect option for lugging to your favorite campground. It comes with a WeatherTec system, designed to keep you dry and warm during yucky weather. In fact, it can withstand winds up to 35 mph.
There’s also a handy loop at the top for hanging a battery-powered LED lantern, mesh pockets for stashing your essentials, and a handy doormat for muddy shoes and boots.
Coleman Cabin Tent
We love cabin tents because they offer extra height across the entire ceiling. This six-person cabin tent, also by Coleman, is perfect for two adults, and two or three children.
Measuring 10 feet x 9 feet with a six-foot ceiling, it can comfortably accommodate two queen-size air mattresses.
Thoroughly weatherproofed, with enforced corners and inverted seams, you’re guaranteed to stay dry during even the wildest of storms.
Coleman WeatherMaster Tent
Another gem from Coleman, this durable, spacious, easy-to-set-up tent is available for six or 10-people. At this writing, the 10-person version is actually cheaper, so now’s your chance to go big!
The 10-person design offers 17 x 9 feet of space, which will easily fit three queen-size air mattresses. It also has a room divider, so you can tuck your munchkins in on one side, and have a bit of privacy on the other.
And the best part? The ceiling height is a whopping six feet eight inches! Even the tallest members of your family won’t have to hunch over and you can have a full-on dance party inside. (Why not?)
This tent has some other cool features, like a hinged front door, a WeatherTec system to keep everyone nice and dry, and hooks for lanterns.
The six-person design features a screened-in porch, so you can enjoy some outside time without being immersed in bugs or rain. You can also leave the rainfly detached to gaze at the stars through the mesh roof. Just be sure to keep it handy in case the weather shifts unexpectedly.
Ozark Trail Instant Cabin with Bonus Screen Room
This nine-person Instant Cabin Tent by Ozark Trail seriously has it all! There’s enough space for three queen-size air mattresses, optional room dividers, and a wall of mesh pockets for quick and easy storage. It also has a crazy high, almost seven-foot ceiling.
The bonus screen room is a fantastic addition, allowing you to eat, lounge, or enjoy the sunset without being attacked by swarms of bugs. The E-Port also provides easy access for extension cords if you want to use a fan during those muggy, summer nights.
Worried about setting up this beast? The video above makes it a breeze! You also get to see what it looks like with a family and kids running around inside.
Ozark Trail Instant Cabin
If you’re a homebody who hates the outdoors, consider getting a tent that’s just like a house! There’s no place like home, right?
This spacious, 12-person Ozark Trail Instant Cabin Tent has two separate entries, three room dividers, and enough space for three queen-size air mattresses. With space like this, you can squeeze in two families!
It measures 16 x 16 feet, with an almost seven-foot ceiling, so your tallest family members will thank you! This tent also features a large awning that provides the perfect protection for a camping table or picnic blanket.
Worried about the setup time? It only takes approximately two minutes, thanks to the super-cool pre-attached poles! You really can’t ask for more.
Check out the video above to see the setup process in action—you’ll be impressed!
A large tent is a good investment. It’ll last for years because you’ll have all the space to accommodate friends, cousins, and any future kiddos. Of course, if you want to make sure your family members actually enjoy camping first, start with a smaller one. The ultimate goal is family fun!
