In this text, I give a list of Best Instant Tents For Camping, all in the size range 5 – 15 people, with incredibly quick and easy setup, and most of them with truly affordable prices.
My list of best instant camping tents
- Ozark Trail 5-in-1 Convertible Instant Tent and Shelter
- Outsunny Easy Pop Up Tent 5 Person
- Mobihome 6-Person Tent Family Camping Quick Setup
- MOON LENCE Instant Pop Up Tent 4-5 Person
- EVER ADVANCED Instant Cabin Tent 6 Person
- CORE Instant Cabin Tent 6 Person
- Pacific Pass Camping Tent 6 Person Instant Cabin Family Tent
- Ozark Trail 6-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
- Ozark Trail 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Light
- Coleman 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- KAZOO Family Camping Tent 6-8 Saturn
- Bushnell Shield Series 11′ x 9′ Instant Cabin Tent
- Core 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Full Rainfly
- Core Lighted 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Core Instant Cabin Tent 6
- Caddis Rapid 6 Person Tent
- Naturehike Village 17 Tent
- Timber Ridge 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent With Rain Fly
- ALPHA CAMP 8 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- OZARK Trail 12′ x 12′ Instant Teepee Tent
- Gazelle T8 Pop-Up Hub Tent
- Naturehike Village 13 Instant Tent
- NTK Flash 8 Instant Cabin Camping Tent
- Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent 14 x 9
- Bushnell Shield Series 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Coleman 8 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Coleman Instant Cabin 10 Person Tent
- CORE 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent With Screen Room
- CORE 10 Person Lighted Instant Cabin Tent
- CORE Instant Cabin Tent 10 Person Performance
- NatureHike Cape Instant Tent 8 Person
- OT QOMOTOP Tent 10 Person
- Outdoor Products 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
- Ozark Trail Instant Cabin Tent with Built in Cabin Lights
- Outdoor Products 8 Person Instant Hexagon Tent with Built-in Lights
- Ozark Trail 12-Person 3-Room Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room
- Coleman Camping Tent Skylodge Instant 12 Person
- Core 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- CORE Two Room 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Side Entrance
- Ozark Trail 18 x 10 Instant Cabin Tent with Integrated Led Light
- Ozark Trail 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent With Screened Room
- Ozark Trail 11-Person Instant Hexagon Cabin Tent
- Ozark Trail 16 x 16 Feet 12 Person 3 Room Instant Tent
- Bushnell Shield Series 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent 18 x 11
- Ozark Trail 20 x 10 Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
- Ozark Trail 15 Person Instant Tent
A few notes before I continue:
- The order in the list is by the floor area from smaller to larger.
- The list includes the instant cabin tents and the instant dome tents. More about cabin-type tents in my separate text, and about instant cabin tents in general please check here.
- Some of the tents are with a screen room, see for example the Ozark Trail 9. About screen rooms please see more in my separate text.
- You also have winter tents for extreme conditions or for cold weather in general, some are with a wood stove included, see the Russian Bear tent.
- Some of the tents are with the dark rest technology, a new trend in the family camping tents industry.
- You also have canvas tents in the list.
- You will also see a great teepee-style tent here in the list.
1. Ozark Trail 5-in-1 Convertible Instant Tent and Shelter
The term instant setup here applies only on the roof and the frame with its legs and roof poles. But this is a completely unique system with 2 separate 4-person tents, and one screenhouse. The configuration shown in the picture is with one 4-person tent on the right and a floorless screen room on the left.
However, you can use this set in 5 different ways, and this explains the phrase 5-in-1 in its official name. The weight of the set is 41 lb (18.6 kg) and the base dimensions are 15 x 9 ft (457 x 274 cm).
The screen room size is 56 ft² (5.2 m²), and the same size is the 4-person tent. This is also a very tall structure, you have the external peak height of 84 inches (213 cm). It is incredibly affordable.
2. Outsunny Easy Pop Up Tent 5 Person
This Outsunny Easy Pop Up Tent 5 Person is a very tall tent for its size, the peak height is no less than 76.75 inches (195 cm). This is a pleasant freestanding cabin-style instant setup tent with an unusual combination of 4 doors.
The poles are an aluminum/fiberglass combination, and the tent is built as a single-layer construction. The weight is 13.5 lb (6.12 kg), and the floored area is 62 ft² (5.76 m²). So it is best to downgrade it to 3 people or so.
3. Mobihome 6-Person Tent Family Camping Quick Setup
This Mobihome 6-Person Tent Family Camping Quick Setup is not completely an instant setup tent, I would describe it as semi-instant. This is an extended dome structure with the central poles system that is instant. But there are two extra poles to be added on the sides.
The tent is more oval than rectangular so although it looks big, it is quite compact with the dimensions 13.5 x 7 ft (410 x 210 cm) and the area that is around 75 ft² (7 m²). You have four windows and one door. The poles are fiberglass and the tent is quite lightweight with its 14.3 lb (6.5 kg). Note also that it is incredibly affordable.
4. MOON LENCE Instant Pop Up Tent 4-5 Person
As you would expect from an instant tent, this MOON LENCE Instant Pop Up Tent is incredibly easy to use. It is a very pleasant dome tent with its 5 windows and one door, and it is fully freestanding.
The base is a pentagon shape supported by its fiberglass poles. The tent is very light, it weighs 10.25 lb (4.65 kg). The floor area is 75 ft² (7 m²), so this explains its position here in the list. This is a tent very suitable for people who change the place frequently. You would want to know that it is incredibly affordable.
5. EVER ADVANCED Instant Cabin Tent 6 Person with Rainfly
This tent offers 3 separate windows and one on the single door visible in the picture above, so you have openings on all sides. This with its peak height of 73 inches (185 cm) makes it very pleasant.
The tent is freestanding and you have an e-cable port. The official setup time is 60 seconds, but add a minute or so for its fly that should be added separately.
The weight is 24.4 lb (11 kg) so the tent is quite heavy, and its packed size is 47.6 x 7.9 x 7.9 in (121 x 20 x 20 cm). The floor area is 81 ft² (7.5 m²).
6. CORE Instant Cabin Tent 6 Person
Here you have an easy to use freestanding summer camping tent built in the cabin style. As expected, it is with a pre-attached frame, so only the fly is a separate part.
The tent has two separate windows, plus two windows on the door. All of them are with mesh and with zippered panels.
With such great windows and a mesh ceiling, the tent offers lots of ventilation. But you also have a floor vent. I guess, the most interesting detail is that overhanging fly that is supported with extended eaves. It partly protects the door and the windows.
The tent weighs 25 lb (11.3 kg), and its floor area is 90 ft² (8.3 m²). The peak height is 72 inches (183 cm).
7. Pacific Pass Camping Tent 6 Person Instant Cabin Family Tent
This Pacific Pass Camping Tent 6 Person Instant Cabin Family Tent is what its name says, an easy to use tent that you can pitch in under one minute. You have a stable steel frame that supports its single-layer structure, 1 door, and no less than 5 windows.
The tent weighs 17.22 lb (7.8 kg) and the floor area is 90 ft² (8.3 m²). You will want to know that it is very affordable, please follow the link for more.
8. Ozark Trail 6-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
This is an incredibly affordable tent in spite of its advanced design which is based on the dark rest technology. So you have dark materials, zippered panels on the roof, plus vinyl windows on the roof. This all is there to allow you regulating the amount of light in the tent and to sleep longer. It also creates a bit cooler atmosphere in the tent. You will see its bigger brother below.
Key features
- Dark-room design.
- Floor vent available.
- 3 windows.
- Freestanding.
- Gear loft included.
- Electrical cord access.
- Vinyl windows on the fly.
Specifications
- Capacity: 6 people.
- Weight: 20 lb (9.07 kg).
- Dimensions: 10 x 9 ft (3.05 x 2.74 m).
- Floor area: 90 ft² (8.36 m²).
- Peak height: 66 in (166 cm)
- Packed size (L x D): 43 x 8 in (109 x 20 cm).
9. Ozark Trail 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Light
The dimensions of this Ozark Trail tent are the same as in their dark rest tent shown above, but the features are different. So here again you have the area of 90 ft² (8.36 m²) and the height is 66 inches (168 cm).
This is an instant setup tent, with the declared setup time of 60 seconds, and this is why it is in the list of course. But it has several nice features and what sets it apart from competitors is its integrated light system.
The frame is steel, the poles are telescopic, and the tent is fully freestanding, you have 3 windows here and one door. The tent comes with a removable media pocket and a removable organizer with many storage pockets, and you also have an E-cable port. Ventilation is excellent with all its openings and you also have two huge vents on the sides. Please follow the link for more.
10. Coleman 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent
This is an incredibly affordable tent and with an express setup typical for such a type. It comes with an integrated rain fly, so this is a single-layer design which makes its structure really simple. The tent is built as the cabin-type with huge windows on all sides, and it should be used in mild weather conditions.
Being without a fly, the waterproof panels on the door and on the windows must be closed when it is raining. Observe that it is without a vestibule, just to know, so upscale when it comes to the number of users; although it can accommodate 6 people, ideally this is a tent for 3 – 4 people.
Key features
- Built-in rain fly.
- Single-layer design.
- Heavy-duty materials.
- Freestanding tent.
- Huge windows.
- Great price; only around $167 at the moment of writing this text.
Specifications
- Capacity: 6 people.
- Weight: 24.9 lb (11.3 kg).
- Dimensions: 10 x 9 ft (3.05 x 2.74 m).
- Floor area: 90 sq ft (8.4 m²).
- Peak height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m).
- Packed size (L x D): around 48 x 9 in (122 x 23 cm).
11. KAZOO Family Camping Tent Saturn
This KAZOO Family Camping Tent is a nicely built instant tent and this is why it is here. But this is also a freestanding cabin tent with a full-coverage fly so I have added it to my list of tents with full fly. It comes with a high waterproof rating and aluminum poles for full protection in a 3-season use.
The tent has 2 fly windows, 2 huge doors, and it is very tall. The weight is 17.85 lb (8.1 kg) and the area is 90.3 ft² (8.4 m²). In view of this, it can accommodate up to 6 people and I have added it also to my list of best 6 person tents.
12. Bushnell Shield Series 11′ x 9′ Instant Cabin Tent
This Bushnell Shield Series 11′ x 9′ Instant Cabin Tent is really nicely designed with its 5 windows. It comes with steel poles so this is a very strong and stable construction. There is an awning on the front and multiple storage elements.
This is an instant setup tent and this is why it is here in the list. So the setup is in 60 seconds for the main part, but there is an extra pole for awning and the fly.
The tent comes with an E-cable port, gear loft, reflective fly for UV protection, and a large door. It weighs 26 lb (11.8 kg) and the inner area is 99 ft² (9.2 m²). Note also that this is a very affordable tent.
13. Core 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Full Rainfly
As you realize from its name, this is an instant setup cabin style tent. This makes it easy to use as expected from such a design. But its name also tells you that it comes with a full coverage fly for a complete rain protection. Cabin type tents with such a fly are not so frequent on the market.
From the picture you can see that the fly is designed so that you can roll it up and have views around when it is not raining. The tent is fully freestanding, and supported with a strong steel frame.
There are 3 separate windows, plus one on its door. Here are a few numbers. The tent weighs 23 lb (10.4 kg) and its floor area is 99 ft² (9.18 m²).
14. Core Lighted 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent
This tent is here because it is with instant setup and its official setup time is 60 seconds. But this is also a tent with integrated lights. The light system is built into the ceiling poles of the tent, and they have added Core’s unique diffusing fabric panel that disperses light.
As you realize from the picture, it comes with large windows with mesh and zippered panels, and it is also nicely ventilated with two floor vents. You also have an e-cable port. The tent weighs 14.5 lb (6.6 kg), and the area is 99 ft² (9.18 m²).
15. Core Instant Cabin Tent 6
This is the cabin-type tent, packed with great features and with a great design. It comes with the separate rain fly, and its ceiling is all mesh, so ventilation is great in this tent. The huge windows, as expected, make it a very livable tool. It is freestanding, but to be completely sure, it is best to stake the fly as the picture shows.
Similar to the Coleman 6 tent above, it is without a vestibule, so the same objection again; you need space for gear so it is best to use it for 3 – 4 people.
Note that they also have a slightly different version with awning launched in 2018.
Key features
- Very pleasant and livable.
- Lantern hook on the highest point.
- Gear loft is included.
- Huge wall organizer included.
- Integrated electricity port.
- Incredible price; only around $120 at the moment of writing this text.
Specifications
- Freestanding, 6-person, 3-season tent.
- Weight: 22.8 lb (10.34 kg).
- Floor area: 99 sq ft (9.2 m²).
- Floor dimensions: 11 x 9 ft (3.35 x 2.74 m).
- Peak height: 72 in (1.83 m).
- Packed size (L x D): 48 x 8.5 in (122 x 22 cm).
16. Caddis Rapid 6 Person Tent
This Caddis Rapid 6 Person Tent is fully freestanding because of the fly that attaches to its corners, but it is here because it is an instant setup tent that can be ready in a minute. You will want to know that it is very tall, the peak height is 80 inches (203 cm).
There is one door shown in the picture, and you also have an E-cable port and a gear loft. The tent weighs 25 lb 8 oz (11.6 kg) so it is on the heavy side. The area is 100 ft² (9.3 m²).
17. Naturehike Village 17 Tent
The Naturehike Village 17 Tent offers a floored area of 100 ft² (9.3 m²), and a floorless living room of 83.4 ft² (7.75 m²). This is an exceptional choice with its unique cabin-type design, its pre-attached frame, and an array of luxurious features.
The tent’s interior is thoughtfully organized, featuring separate floored sleeping rooms on either side and a central floorless area, creating a versatile space for various activities. Noteworthy attributes include six windows and two doors, each equipped with a double-layer design for optimal ventilation, privacy, and rain protection.
The addition of an awning configuration enhances the tent’s versatility, providing shade on both sides and significantly expanding the living space. Despite its substantial size, the tent boasts instant setup capability, and an integrated light bar adds a touch of ambiance to the interior.
Crafted from durable materials, including UV-resistant and light-blocking fabric, the Naturehike Village 17 Tent ensures a comfortable and secure shelter. Tailored for four adults or a combination of adults and children, the tent excels in warm and humid conditions, offering flexibility for sealing off doors in cooler weather.
While the pricing may seem high, the tent’s abundance of luxury details, such as double-layer doors and integrated lighting, justifies the investment, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing comfort, privacy, and convenience in family camping.
18. Timber Ridge 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent With Rain Fly
The Timber Ridge 6 is a cabin style instant tent with a great size and a bathtub floor design. Clearly, it is very similar in style to some of the tents in the list, but it offers a bit more space and it is taller than many of its competitors. This is also a very affordable tent.
The setup is quick and easy, typical for such instant tents with telescopic poles, the frame is preassembled and attached to the tent.
Key features
- Cabin style.
- 4 windows.
- Great floor area.
- Electric port.
- 1-year warranty.
Specifications
- Weight: 25.4 lb (11.5 kg).
- Capacity: 6 people.
- Dimension: 10 x 10 ft (305 x 305 cm).
- Floor area: 100 ft² (9.3 m²).
- Peak height: 78 in (198 cm).
19. ALPHA CAMP 8 Person Instant Cabin Tent
Here you have a cabin style tent with instant setup and a steel frame. But the weight is really good, it weighs only 20.5 lb (9.3 kg) and it comes in a nice carry bag. The packed size is less great, 45 x 10 inches (115 x 25 cm), but this is quite typical for instant tents.
The declared capacity is 8 people, but as usual the area is too small, 108 ft² (10 m²), so realistically this is for up to 4 people. The tent is with a minimal coverage fly and its waterproof rating is very good 2500 mm. There are many windows around, and a double door on the front.
Overall construction is such that I see it best suited for summer camping in mild weather conditions and without much rain. Please follow the link for more.
20. Ozark Trail 12 x 12 Instant Tepee Tent
As you realize this is a modern version of classic teepee tents and as of the moment of writing these lines the only instant model on the market. So if you want something completely unique, then this is the tent for you. The official set up time for this structure is two-minutes. It is included in my list of best teepee tents.
The tent is fully freestanding. You have those four steel legs visible in the picture which support the structure. They are pre-attached to the tent as usual for instant tents, so just unfold and extend. The capacity is up to 7 people and for this you have around 108 ft² (10 m²).
You get also a pair of pockets, a pair of hanging organizers, and an electric cable port. Top and ground vents allow for air circulation. You might want to know that this is an incredibly affordable tent.
21. Gazelle T8 Pop-Up Hub Tent
This tent can be described as a pop-out structure with the walls that you pull out, and the ceiling you push up. The tent is a 2-room 3-season semi-freestanding shelter, easy to use, and tall with its 78 inches (198 cm) peak height.
It is built in a cabin style and you have 12 windows and a removable floor. There are 2 doors and many storage options around. The weight is substantial, 47 lb (21.3 kg), and the floor area is 110 ft² (10.2 m²).
22. Naturehike Village 13 Instant Tent
The Naturehike Village 13 Instant Tent is a cabin-style, two-room shelter designed with convenience and functionality in mind. Its pre-attached frame enables a rapid setup, making it an ideal candidate for those seeking the best instant tents.
Boasting a spacious 114 ft² (10.7 m²) floored area, it comfortably accommodates up to four campers with room to spare.
The tent features a full-coverage fly with awning options, excellent ventilation with mesh windows and doors, and a durable 300D Oxford cloth floor for protection against the elements.
With a peak height of 72 inches, it offers plenty of headroom, and the robust steel frame ensures stability in various weather conditions.
True to its four-season design, the Naturehike Village 13 provides exceptional waterproofing (3000 mm on the fly, 4000 mm on the floor) and UV protection.
Double-layered doors and windows ensure privacy and adaptability, while clever storm flaps and large vents enhance airflow. Despite its boxy shape and slightly bulky packed size, the tent’s overall ease of use and thoughtful features make it a great addition to any camper’s collection.
23. NTK Flash 8 Instant Cabin Camping Tent
If you frequently change camping places, this NTK Flash 8 Instant Cabin Camping Tent is the right choice. You have a pleasant and tall structure with 5 large windows and an awning shown in the picture. This tent you can pitch in a couple of minutes, as its name suggests, this is an instant camping tent.
Note that it is a bit heavy with its 28.65 lb (13 kg), but this is quite typical for instant cabin tents of this type. The area is 117 ft² (10.8 m²). Please follow the link for more details.
24. Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent 14 x 9
This is an incredibly affordable tent with an amazing design and an easy setup. You can pitch it in under a minute. The tent very pleasant and livable, with so many mesh windows around and with the mesh on the ceiling. So you will never have problems with air circulation and condensation.
With such a construction, this is a summer tent for families and groups, and you will need a car for transportation to the camp place. The downside is that it has only one door, and from the picture, you realize it is without a vestibule, but this holds for most of the tents here.
Key features
- This is a tent with two rooms.
- You can set it up in 60 seconds.
- It is freestanding.
- Great price, around $220, please follow the links for updates.
- It comes with an electricity port.
Specifications
- Type: 3-season, freestanding.
- Capacity: 9 people.
- Weight: 35.15 lb (16.3 kg).
- Floor area: 126 sq ft (11.7 m²).
- Dimensions: 14 x 9 ft (4.26 x 2.74 m).
- Peak height: 78 in (1.98 m).
- Packed size: 48 x 11 x 10.5 in (122 x 28 x 27 cm).
Note that they have launched a lighted version for the season 2019, the CORE Lighted 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent, so please have a look.
25. Bushnell Shield Series 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent 15 x 9
This Bushnell Shield Series 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent 15 x 9 feet is here because of its instant setup based on a strong steel frame. As the name suggests, this is a 9-person nicely designed 2-room strong construction with 2 doors, 7 windows with mesh and panels, plus mesh ceiling and floor vents. So as you realize, ventilation is done properly.
It comes with a heat-reflecting fly and multiple storage options. There is an E-cable port and an awning, and much more. The area is 135 ft² (12.5 m²) and the peak height is 78 inches (198 cm).
26. Coleman 8 Person Instant Tent
This is a very large freestanding and tall 2-room tent for 8 people, with an integrated rain fly, so in this respect, it is similar to the Coleman 6 tent. They are from the same series. This is again a great construction with many useful features. It has been on the market for many years already, and it comes with a more than a reasonable price tag.
Key features
- Very affordable price, around $240 at the moment of writing the text.
- Built-in rain fly.
- Single-layer design.
- Heavy-duty materials.
- Freestanding tent.
- 7 huge windows.
- 2 doors
- 2 rooms.
- Very tall tent.
Specifications
- Type: instant cabin-type, freestanding, 3-season.
- Capacity: 8 people.
- Weight: 36.3 lb (16.5 kg).
- Dimensions: 14 x 10 ft (168 x 120 in; 4.3 x 3 m).
- Floor area: 140 sq ft (12.9 m²).
- Peak height: 6 ft 5 in (77 in; 1.96 m).
- Packed size (L x D): around 47 x 10 in (120 x 25 cm).
27. Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup
This 10-person tent is here because of its instant setup. So you can have it ready in under one minute. It has two doors and one of them is hinged type, so I have included it in my list of hinged door tents. But this tent has quite a number of other great features, so this is also a dark rest tent and you can sleep longer in the morning.
By structure, this is a very typical cabin style tent with a minimal fly, and you have large windows on all sides. It comes with a removable divider so you can have two rooms.
The tent is heavy because of its steel frame, the weight is 42 lb (19 kg), the area is 140 ft² (13 m²) and the tent’s peak height is 79 inches (201 cm). The packed size is 42 x 9 x 9 inches (107 x 23 x 23 cm). The declared capacity is 10 people but it is best to downgrade this by half.
28. CORE 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent With Screen Room
This Core 10 tent is a beautifully designed summer camping tool that includes two rooms plus the screen room which you see in the picture. The tent is very pleasant and livable, with many large windows and two entry doors. The screen room is not fully protected so this is a space that offers protection from insects.
The tent is in the list here because of its instant setup which is under 2 minutes. Though the screen room has some extra poles that should be added separately so plan a few minutes more to make it ready. In any case, this is a large tent with 203 ft² (18.9 m²) of the total area and 140 ft² (13 m²) of the inner area, most suitable for people who change the camping place frequently. Please read more in my full review.
Note that they also have a version with integrated light, the CORE Lighted 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room.
29. CORE 10 Person Lighted Instant Cabin Tent
The CORE 10 Person Lighted Instant Cabin Tent is with an official 2-minutes setup time. It is very nicely built and freestanding, and you have an area of 140 ft² (13 m²).
But it also comes with integrated lights that operate on 4D batteries, and you have three operating modes. It is interesting that there are switches on the walls both inside and outside of the tent. This is why I have included it also in my list of best lighted tents.
The tent is tall and pleasant with its 7 large windows and 2 rooms. It is nicely ventilated and you have many storage elements and an E-cable port. The weight is 47.8 lb (21.7 kg).
30. CORE Instant Cabin Tent 10 Person Performance
This CORE Instant Cabin Tent 10 Person is here because of its instant setup design. This is a nicely designed tent and the largest in their Performance series. All of them are built in the cabin style.
The tent has numerous windows that make it pleasant and livable. There are two doors and two rooms with a real divider between them. Note also that it is with vents. Its most distinctive feature is the overhanging fly visible in the picture, that partly protects the doors and windows.
The weight is substantial, it weighs 41 lb (18.6 kg), but you realize this is similar to the other 10-person tents of this brand. The area is 140 ft² (13 m²) so it is not particularly large for 10 people. The height is very good, you heave 78 inches (198 cm) peak height here.
31. NatureHike Cape Instant Tent 8 Person
The NatureHike Cape Instant Tent 8 Person offers a seamless camping experience for families and groups, thanks to its rapid 60-second setup, spacious interior, and three double-layer doors.
With a waterproof rating of 3000 mm, it ensures reliable protection against the elements, while its generous mesh coverage and large awnings enhance ventilation and comfort during warm weather trips.
Boasting an inner floored area of 140 ft² (13 m²), this tent provides ample space for occupants to move freely and comfortably.
Despite its impressive features, such as the instant setup mechanism and sturdy construction, there are considerations to note. Its lengthy packed size and weight of 35.3 lb (16 kg) may present challenges during transportation, and the absence of floor vents could be a drawback in extended rainy conditions.
Nevertheless, for campers prioritizing ease of setup and spacious accommodation, the NatureHike Cape Instant Tent 8 Person remains a reliable choice for memorable outdoor adventures.
32. OT QOMOTOP Tent 10 Person
This is a summer camping tent that is extremely easy to use, pleasant, ventilated, and very affordable. QOMOTOP is s new brand on the market but it is becoming very popular with its series of tents built in the same style, this is the largest tent in the series.
Officially the setup time is 60 seconds. You have a removable divider so the tent is a 2-room type, with 2 doors and 6 windows. It comes with a gear loft, an e-cable port, floor vents, and a great price. The tent weighs 29.9 lb (13.6 kg) and its overall dimensions are 14 x 10 ft (427 x 305 cm), so the area is 140 ft² (13 m²).
33. Outdoor Products 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent
This Outdoor Products 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent is a fully freestanding 2-room structure, but most importantly, it can be pitched in under 2 minutes. So this is why it is here in the list. It has a strong steel frame and it comes with an interesting extended eave technology.
The tent offers an inner area of 140 ft² (13 m²), this is not much but this is typical for many 10-person tents here in the site. You have 6 windows and 2 doors. There are a floor vent and an E-cable port, and the tent is heavy with its 41.6 lb (18.9 kg).
Note that there is yet another tent from this series with very similar features presented here in the site, the Outdoor Products 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent.
34. Ozark Trail 10-Person Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
The most important feature of this tent is already in its name. This is the dark rest technology that allows you to regulate the amount of daylight in the tent. The tent is included also in my list of best dark rest tents, so please have a look there as well.
Apart from this, the tent is huge and pleasant, designed for 10 people, built in the cabin style as you realize from the picture. The inner area is 140 ft² (13 m²).
Key features
- Innovative Dark Rest technology.
- 2-room tent.
- 8 windows.
- Fits 2 queen airbeds.
- Electric cable port.
35. Ozark Trail Instant Cabin Tent with Built-in Cabin Lights
This Ozark Trail Instant Cabin Tent with Built-in Cabin Lights is here because this is an instant tent. But it also comes with integrated lights and plenty of other great features. This is a 2-room freestanding construction and one of the rooms is a screen room with mesh and zippered panels on all sides, so you can use it as it suits you. Note that it is fully floored and protected. This is why I have included it in my list of tents with screen rooms.
The frame is steel, you have an E-cable port, a media pocket, a gear storage system, 2 doors, and 7 windows. Note also that the tent is very affordable. The area is 140 ft² (13 m²) and the weight is 32.6 lb (14.8 kg).
36. Outdoor Products 8 Person Instant Hexagon Tent with Built-in Lights
This Outdoor Products 8 Person Instant Hexagon Tent with Built-in Lights is an instant setup tent and this is why it is here. But it is also an interesting fully freestanding cabin, and this implies a minimal fly that attaches at the corners. This leaves space for those 6 huge windows that you can see in the picture, and great views around.
The tent is with floor vents and with a mesh ceiling so it is nicely ventilated. Note also that it is with integrated lights with three working modes, so I have included it in my list of best lighted tents. You also have 2 doors and an E-cable port. The tent weighs 41.4 lb (18.8 kg) and the area is 146 ft² (13.56 m²).
37. Ozark Trail 12-Person 3-Room Instant Cabin Tent with Screen Room
The Ozark Trail 12 is an instant setup tent and this is why it is in the list here. So you have the usual design with the poles pre-attached to the tent and the packed size is 50 x 12 x 12 inches (127 x 30 x 30 cm).
You have 3 rooms here and the front room is a screen room. This is why I have included it in my list of tents with screen room. The total area is 168 ft² (15.6 m²) and as you see from the name, the declared capacity is 12 people. Observe that the screen room is fully protected, with the sealed floor and panels on all sides.
The poles are steel so this is a strong and stable structure. The peak height is 76 inches (193 cm), and the fly is minimal, and also the waterproof rating is low, only 600 mm. So this tent is perfect for summer camping in an environment without much rain and wind. Please follow the link for more.
38. Coleman Camping Tent Skylodge Instant 12 Person
The Coleman Camping Tent Skylodge Instant 12 Person is the largest from their series that includes many tents built in the same style. This is an easy-to-use 2-room tent most suitable for calm weather family car camping in the warmer part of the year.
As you realize from the name, this is an instant setup tent, and it is very tall with its 7.4 ft (226 cm) peak height. So I have added it also in my list of very tall family camping tents. The weight is 52.71 lb (24 kg) and the area is 170.5 ft² (15.8 m²).
39. Core 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent 18 x 10
This is one of the largest family camping tents on the market, with 3 rooms, and an incredibly easy setup. It offers 180 ft² (16.7 m²) of the area, which is definitely enough for the declared capacity of 12 people. I do not give too many details here, it is fully described in my separate text, see the link below.
Key features
- In spite of its size, this tent’s setup is 2 minutes.
- You have 3 rooms.
- 2 huge doors with windows are on the opposite sides.
- You have 7 separate windows.
- It can accommodate 3 queen size beds.
- This is one of the largest family camping tents on the market with 18 x 10 feet dimensions.
- Great price, around $280. Please check the link below for updates.
- It has 2 large vents close to the floor.
Note that they have launched also a new version of this tent for the season 2019, the Core Lighted 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent which comes with an integrated light system.
40. CORE Two Room 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent with Side Entrance
As the name of the tent suggests, this is again an instant setup tent and one person can make it ready in under two minutes. The tent is fully freestanding. The poles are steel and this is why it is quite heavy, it weighs 40 lb (18.1 kg). But this is a very strong and stable structure perfect for summer camping.
There is a side door mentioned in the name, but the main door is on its narrow side and you can see it in the picture. The tent is with 5 huge windows and those are all double-layer structures with mesh and panels, so ventilation is excellent.
The area is 180 ft² (16.7 m²) and the declared capacity is 12 people, so it is included in my list of best 12-person tents. This is also a tall tent with a peak height of 80 inches (203 cm). There is a divider inside so you have two rooms. Please follow the link for more.
41. Ozark Trail 18 x 10 Instant Cabin Tent with Integrated Led Light
The Ozark Trail 18″ x 10′ Instant Cabin Tent with Integrated Led Light is here because of instant design. But the tent has plenty of useful features. It is officially for 12 people, and for this it offers 3 rooms and an area of 180 ft² (16.7 m²).
You have 2 doors and 6 separate windows. As you realize from the name, it has integrated lights. The awning which is shown in the picture is supported by 2 poles that are included.
The tent is very tall with its 80 inches (203 cm) peak height, pleasant, and affordable. The weight is 47.87 lb (21.7 kg), and its overall dimensions are 18 x 10 ft (549 x 305 cm).
42. Ozark Trail 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent with screened room
This is a very livable option for family camping, a tent with a nicely designed screen room plus two inner rooms with the floor. So this looks like a 3-room tent, but the screened part is not fully protected from the rain; the mesh which you see in the picture is without panels.
The tent is described in detail in my separate review, so here I give only a few basic data. Note that the screen part needs some assembly, so in the strict sense it is not completely instant. But adding a couple of poles to raise the screened are is really easy.
Key features
- 2 rooms + screen room without a floor.
- 2 floor vents.
- 6 windows + windows on the double door.
- Instant & cabin tent.
- Electric cable port.
- Large wall storage area with many mesh pockets.
- Nice carry bag.
43. Ozark Trail 11-Person Instant Hexagon Cabin Tent
This Hexagon 11 tent is what its name says, an interesting hexagonal structure with two doors plus four large windows. Obviously, the tent is instant by the design, and it offers around 190 ft² (17.7 m²) for the declared capacity of 11 people.
The best part is probably its main door where you have an inner T-shaped zippered mesh plus the panel which is equipped with two extra poles, so it is rigid and you can raise it and create a pleasant large awning. There are two extra poles that support the awning. This configuration is shown in the picture above.
The tent is with a minimal fly, so it is for summer camping. The price is more than fair, around $160 at the moment of writing this text, please check the link for updates.
44. Ozark Trail 16 x 16 Feet 12 Person 3 Room Instant Tent
This is one of the largest structures here (but also among the heaviest too), with three separate rooms, each big enough to accommodate a queen-sized bed. So the tent is very suitable for several couples and for big families or groups. In spite of its huge dimensions, the setup time is two minutes (when you know how to do it). One extra detail here which makes it different from others are telescopic poles even on the roof, in addition to the usual telescopic vertical poles.
The tent is with many great details and I would point out its large awning which covers the space within its L-shaped profile.
Key features
- Huge L-shaped area 192 ft² (17.8 m²).
- 7 windows.
- Express setup.
- 3 separate rooms, each 8 x 8 ft (244 x 244 cm).
- 2 ground vents which can fit airconditioners.
- Huge awning.
- Electrical cord access port.
45. Bushnell Shield Series 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent 18 x 11 ft
This Bushnell Shield Series 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent 18 x 11 is the largest from their Shield series which also includes a 6-person tent and a 9-person tent which you have seen above, all built differently, but all of them are instant setup tents. This is a steel structure with 3 rooms and this is why I have included it also in my list of best 3-room tents.
This is a cabin-type tent with 8 large windows, an awning, and multiple storage features. The area is 198 ft² (18.4 m²) so this is a large construction included in my list of extra large family camping tents. Note also that it is tall, with 80 inches (203 cm) peak height. The tent is best suited for summer camping without much rain and wind.
46. Ozark Trail 20 x 10 Dark Rest Instant Cabin Tent
Here you have a tent from the dark rest technology group. So it incorporates many great features and its instant design is as efficient as in any other tent here in the group. You have seen some of its smaller cousins from the same brand in the list above.
The tent is built from dark materials and you also have dark panels zippered underneath the ceiling mesh. So with this, you can regulate the amount of light you want to have and you can considerably reduce glare in the tent.
The tent is huge, you have 200 square feet (18.6 m²) of the floor area, and it is with dividers so you can make 3 separate rooms in the tent. The livability in this tent is clearly on the high level, you have large doors on the two sides and large windows everywhere around. The tent is equipped with vents as well and you have an electric cable port. Please read more in my detailed review.
47. Ozark Trail 15 person instant tent
This is a 3-room tent in the true meaning of this word. The central room is divided from the side rooms with sewn-in walls, so this is the maximum privacy one can expect from a camping tent. These inner doors are with mesh and with panels, for ventilation and for privacy when needed. The two external doors allow for awnings setup and you have poles included. The tent is described in detail in my separate review, please check the link.
Key features
- 3 separate rooms.
- 2 double-wide external doors.
- 2 inner doors.
- Awning.
- 6 + 2 huge wind0ws.
- 2 floor vents.
- 2 electric cord ports.
How to choose
Obviously, all these tents are with an express setup and there is no much difference regarding the time needed for this. But there are a few other criteria to bear in mind.
Storage area
Many of the tents are without any area for storage, but a few have it, so this can be:
- a vestibule,
- an awning,
- a screen room.
It is important to have at least something to put your boots and shoes, to cook, to sit in the shade, etc.
Vents
Almost all these tents are with lots of mesh, and this is normal for summer camping tents. But this may not be enough if you have a long period of rain. In such a case the panels on the windows and the doors usually must be closed and you have no air flow. This is why it is important to have vents. In practically all tents with such a feature, vents can be kept open all the time. So don’t forget to check for vents.
Doors
The rule is simple, the more the better, even if you are not going to use them all. You have some great examples in the list above.
Price
This should not be the main criterion. Some tents are expensive for all good reasons, like top quality and durable materials, extra features, etc. But if you are on a budget, you might have to keep an eye on the price.
Poles
These are big tents and usually, you have steel used for the main poles. This is heavy but you know well this is durable. The roof poles are either fiberglass, or steel, or aluminum. Bear in mind, fiberglass is fragile and it needs care.
Height
This should be easy, the higher the better. But remember, most of the cabin style tents are far from an aerodynamic shape, and they don’t perform great in windy conditions. So this will depend on the purpose of the tent. In general, dome tents perform better, but in most cases they are lower.
Final thoughts
So this was my list of the Best Instant Tents For Camping which are currently on the market. I have picked them up by following several criteria which include reliability (most of them have already been on the market for a long time, so there can be no surprises), functionality, and price (you have seen them, some are simply incredible, but there are exceptions).
Most of them are described in detail in my separate reviews, and the remaining a few will also be described soon, so come back again later to see more.
Thank you for reading. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments, there is a comment box below. I wish you a nice day.
Out of the instant cabin lighted (or even non lighted, can always just hand a lantern) tents with screen room which do you feel is the best waterproof? Also what do you think of the new line of Core instant cabin tents with full rain flys? Thanks for your efforts to put these reviews out.
If you check those that have been around for years and collected many reports by users, you will see statistically which of them are likely to be good and waterproof. But statistics never works for particular cases, this is the fact.
In general, Core tents tend to remain on the market for years and this is for all the good reasons. But typically their official waterproof rating is always rather low. So such numbers should not be taken literally. If seams are not well done, or if the tent has been stored for a very long period of time, it may not be waterproof because of some chemical processes that may develop.
Core’s latest tents with a full fly have received a very good rating by users. No doubt these are good tents.
Thank you so much for all this great information!
Most welcome Leslie, so great to read your comment. All the best.
I live and camp in a high altitude area–6000 to 8000 ft– so what would be a good tent? Most have too many windows for this type of camping.
For such altitudes you need something that is closable. So it does not matter if the windows are big if you can close them completely. There are several tents of this type here in the list of instant tents. There is nothing better than the Russian Bear tent, you will see it there, but there are more options if you do not want to go to such a highly specialized tent for cold weather.
On the other hand you might also want to check my separate list of tents for cold weather camping. I shall be happy to guide you if you give me more details of what you want, size, type, budget, etc.
Why are so many instant tent reviews so poor when regarding rain/water intrusion. So many sites say the Coleman 8-person is a top 3 yet many, many reviews on Amazon and elsewhere not issues with water. I’m also really disappointed to learn CORE tents are “water resistant” – why invest in such a great tent in complete fear of rain blowing in. I’d love a professional review that aligns with user feedback, I feel I’m wasting a ton of time on all these sites. I’d love to hear about a tent that is functional and keeps water out. We want an instant tent simply for food, gear and dressing – my family sleeps in a Kodiak tent.
Hi Kevin, I understand your frustration but this is a complex issue. A tent is supposed to protect users from rain, this is its most basic function. Now, there is declared waterproof rating by the manufacturer and this is one important starting parameter to bear in mind. Even if you read ‘water-resistant’ in the case of some manufactures especially such reliable like CORE, this should be perfectly enough.
The second that comes to mind is the status of tapes on the seams. Those may deteriorate in time even if you do not use the tent, so if you keep the tent packed and start using it after a couple of years it may leak. Then such a user will go and write that the tent is useless and leaking. Or perhaps the tent was packed somewhere by the seller and sold on Amazon with the tapes that have already become useless, and then you would read about leaking although the tent is ‘new’.
The same holds with coating, it may lose its waterproof features in time, it becomes sticky and leaking.
These are some of the reasons why you can have very positive reviews and also very negative reviews about the same tent. So which of them to trust? No doubt both. You see the issue?
Thank you so much! Makes our search so much easier.
This is great to hear Kristine. Many thanks.
thanks for sharing this JV, this is very informative. May I ask your thoughts on ‘air tents’ which use air tubes instead of poles for the majority of the tents pitching. Apparently, this allows for a faster, simpler tent to pitch yet with strong, upright walls. According to a website, “These air tents are rapidly becoming the no 1 choice for families due to this simplicity”. thanks in advance JV.
Hi Van Zyl, great to hear from you. I would agree with the quote you used from that site. The air-beam tents could also be called instant setup tents, but of a specific type. I have them many here in the site, you can see the list of inflatable tents if you have not seen it yet.
Just a few days ago I visited one place in the country where I live, with quite a number of air beam tents from Quechua-Decathlon brand. Can tell you they look great, some of them with 5 rooms and some dark rest in addition to all their features. Those air beams that keep them up look very reliable.
Great list, thank you. We do a lot of beach camping where it can get quite windy. Are there a couple of these that we can consider that perform well in moderate wind?
Thank you Stephen. For windy conditions the best options would be those that are single-layer, i.e., without extra fly. So check Coleman 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent and also Coleman 8 Person Instant Tent.
Then check also the Lightspeed Outdoors Mammoth 6 Person Instant Tent which is in the list. The Russian Bear Winter Tent With Stove included is also very aerodynamic but you would not use it for such a climate.
All other models have a high positioned partial fly and they are less suitable for very windy conditions.
how much trouble would it be for one person to put up & take down a 4-6 person instant dome or cabin tent? I am looking to purchase my 1st tent @ 70 yrs. old but it needs to be easy for me to put it up & take it down. I want a 4=6 for I want plenty of room in it with a center of at least 6’5″ & must be rain & wind proof. Any help would be greatly appreciated…
Hi Ira, even the largest tents here in the list can be set up and taken down by one person. In view of the space you mentioned, check those closer to the top in the list. Not all of those are tall enough for what you need but you should still be able to make a short list. It depends on the climate which you are buying the tent for, there are very different models here, some are for summer camping and some for winter, and there are also differences in the prices. This is why I cannot suggest one specific for you. The Oxley Oztent Lite 5 would be a great choice for sure but it is rather heavy. The CORE 6 Person Instant Cabin is also a great for summer camping but probably not tall enough. For cold weather camping, this would be the Russian Bear tent which is there in the list.
This was very helpful. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
Most welcome Ruth, it is great to hear that the text was helpful. I wish you all the best.
Thanks for the nice rankings.:-))
I knew a good China camping tents manufacturer, China Megoden.
Thank you Megoden. I appreciate your comment and the information. Happy camping.
Thank you for your research. This was helpful.
It is great to have such a comment. Much appreciated.