Tents: Reviews

Prices for tents range from $100 up to nearly $1,000, but what are the differences? We consulted reviews in outdoors magazines as well as field tests from campers and backpackers to identify the best-value two-person, lightweight and family tents for your money.

Big Agnes Big House 6

Best family dome tent

$360

Estimated Price

Reviewers say this sturdy single-room, four-person family tent weathers storms well, and the ventilation and full-coverage fly keep out condensation as well as rain. It is quick to set up, weighs just under 14 pounds and packs into a briefcase-style bag. Ceiling height in the center is 75 inches. Ample storage pockets inside keep belongings organized, and you can add a huge vestibule (*Est. $100) to use for extra storage or as a mudroom. The tent carries a lifetime warranty.

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The North Face Trailhead 8

Three-room cabin tent

$500

Estimated Price

This three-room tent provides two sleeping rooms plus a main room with a 78-inch headroom. Reviews praise the Trailhead 8 for its combination of good ventilation with a full-coverage rain fly. Owners say it withstands high winds and driving rain, and it is easy to pitch and pack up. Well-protected, vented vestibules cover both doors, adding space for gear and a dry place to take off shoes. The North Face is a brand with an excellent reputation for durability and construction, and the tent carries a lifetime warranty.

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Eureka Copper Canyon 1610

Budget family tent

$300

Estimated Price

Reviewers say the tents in the Copper Canyon series aren't as well protected or wind-resistant as the more expensive tents. However, most owners say they're happy with them. The two-room Copper Canyon 1610 has an 8-by-10-foot sleeping room plus a screened dining area the same size. Owners say it's comfortable for up to four adults; other models in this series can sleep even more. Despite the budget price, Eureka provides a lifetime warranty.

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Nemo Losi 3P

Best backpacking tent

$400

Estimated Price

This new backpacking tent is earning rave reviews in comparison tests for its balance of weight, space, durability and weather resistance. At nearly 6 pounds, it's not the lightest backpacking tent. However, reviews recommend this spacious tent as the most comfortable size for two backpackers who can share the load. Each camper gets easy access with a private door, and there's a 13-square-foot vestibule for extra gear. The tent carries a lifetime warranty.

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Big Sky Evolution 2P

Ultralight two-person backpacking tent

$350

Estimated Price

This two-person backpacking tent weighs only about 3 pounds, so it's light enough for one to carry. Yet reviewers say it's also comfortable for two backpackers to share, with two doors and two vestibules. For ultralight backpackers counting every ounce, a version with carbon-fiber poles (*Est. $455) weighs even less. Ample ventilation minimizes condensation, usually a problem in ultralight tents. The lifetime warranty covers any manufacturing defects.

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Eureka Timberline 2

Budget A-frame backpacking tent

$110

Estimated Price

This classic two-person backpacking tent earns praise for its sturdy construction. At almost 6 pounds, it's heavier than most two-person backpacking tents, and has only one door. However, reviewers say it keeps campers dry and lasts for years -- at a very reasonable price. The Eureka Timberline is a free-standing tent with shock-corded poles for easy setup, plus interior storage pockets and loops for hanging a flashlight and clothesline. Larger versions are also available, as is an optional vestibule (*Est. $40) for storing gear. Eureka provides a lifetime warranty.

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