L.L.Bean Vector XL 4 Dome

The four-person version of the L.L.Bean Vector XL Dome tent has been discontinued, but the larger XL 6 Dome tent is still available (*Est. $320). Reviewers say this sturdy L.L.Bean dome tent is quick to set up and weathers storms well. Ventilation and a full-coverage fly keep it dry from condensation as well as in rain. It's roomy for four people, and two vestibules add space. The ceiling on the XL 6 Dome is higher -- 80 inches instead of 69 inches -- so even a tall person can stand up in much of the area. L.L.Bean provides an unconditional satisfaction guarantee. If you prefer separate rooms, consider The North Face Trailhead 8 (*Est. $500), a three-room cabin tent.

We found the most credible review of the Vector Dome XL at Backpacker, since this publication field-tests dozens of tents year-round. ConsumerReports.org tests a similar L.L.Bean dome tent, ranking it in relation to 23 other tents based on ratings for ease of setup, rain resistance, construction quality and convenience of use. Owner-written reviews of the Vector Dome tent published at OutdoorReview.com add more detail and highlight a few drawbacks, as does a review of the larger Vector XL 6 Dome at LLBean.com.