Investing in any kind of camping tent is something that needs careful consideration. Will you actually get to use it? Will any tent do for any kind of camping? Do you really need an expensive tent or will a cheap one do just fine? While all these are important questions to ask, one that always comes to mind is how easy a tent is to set up.
Most people rarely consider how much of a difference an instant tent would make because most people visualize camping during a nice sunny weather, having fun setting it up with the kids and singing kumbaya while they are at it. While this would make for a great experience, the weather might sometimes surprise you and you need to set camp as soon as possible. During those times, you will find an instant tent to be a heaven sent gift.
What is an instant tent?
Instant tents come with pre-attached poles to its body and pitching can take as little as 60 seconds. They are so easy to set up because all you need to do is unfold the tent, extend the poles, and lock everything into place. There are different types of instant tents.
Types Of Instant Tents
Instant cabin tents- These are rectangular or square shaped with upright walls that provide so much room inside and they house as many as 6 to 12 people. They have high ceilings that make it possible to stand or walk inside without touching the roof. Stargazing is possible with these tents as they come with a mesh roof and they are sturdy enough to take the wind. They can even be a Portable medical tent.
Instant done tents– These are a smaller version of the cabin tents and you can totally backpack with them. However, they quite heavy as their poles are heavier than the regular shockcorded poles.
Top 5 Tents of 2018
The Coleman 6 Person Instant Cabin Tent
One of the best things about this tent is how incredibly affordable it is. It is a single-layer design that features an integrated rain fly so it is a simple structure. It is a cabin tent with large windows at the sides but it is suited for mild weather only. This is one of the best instant tents in the market so read more about it before making a choice.
Core Instant Cabin Tent
This is a durable instant tent that takes just 60 seconds to set up. It will fit two queen air mattresses, features an adjustable ground vent, rain resistant door, water repellent fabric and window seals. Additionally, it comes in different sizes and features large double doors, electric cord port and privacy panels.
Ozark Trail 6-Person Dark Rest Instant Tent
This is another affordable instant tent based on dark rest technology. You will get dark materials, vinyl windows, zippered panels and a large enough space to accommodate 6 people. Of course, to be comfortable, about 4 people would be better.
Russian Bear Winter Tent
If sometimes you find yourself camping in extreme weather then this instant tent will be a perfect choice. It has a two-layer design, hinged doors and better than that, it comes with a wood stove. Even though it is quite pricey, the best thing about it is how fast it takes to set it up.
Campvalley 10 Person Instant Cabin Tent
If you go camping with the whole family, this is one of the best tents for you. Actually, it is the only tent that comes with an awning, which adds comfort and livability. It features a mesh ceiling, telescoping poles, a room divider, and ground vent for more ventilation.
Summary
There is a lot to love about instant tents and even though they do come with their drawbacks, sometimes, depending on your camping needs, the good outweighs the not-so-good. There are a lot of people who find them useful and there are those who dislike them so this could be a matter of preference.
I live in a small Georgia town that you most likely have never heard of and I LOVE it! My house is more than full as I am a single mother of four & caregiver to my aging mother and uncle. Lover of all things Outlander. Goes to the beat of her own drum woman.
Calvin says
Nice well built tents that are reliable and leak proof, thanks for the top list