Coleman has been producing high-quality camping equipment since 1900, with its tents providing reliable shelter for campers worldwide. When choosing the best Coleman tent, focus on features including capacity, durability and weather resistance.
While Coleman offers a wide variety of tent options ranging from smaller two-person shelters to extra-large 12-person options, selecting the right one comes down to preference. If you’re in the market for a sturdy tent with an easy setup process, the Coleman Instant Cabin Tent is a solid choice.
When shopping for a new Coleman tent, you’ll likely come across both dome and cabin styles. A dome tent has a rounded design with sloping walls and a slight center peak. Cabin tents are more rectangular to increase headspace and provide extra room.
Most Coleman tents sport a capacity rating between two and 12 people. Capacity may vary slightly depending on the size of the campers and whether or not you’re bringing a pet or want to store a ton of gear in the tent.
The interior dimensions are how much livable space is inside the tent. While backpackers may want a smaller tent so it more easily fits inside a pack, car campers may want a little extra room to stretch out or store equipment. Taller campers should pay close attention so they can choose a model that won’t feel cramped.
Most Coleman tents have a three-season rating, making the tent a viable option for spring, summer and fall camping. If you’ll be camping in cold weather or at high altitudes, opt for a four-season tent, which provides better insulation and withstands snow.
Every Coleman tent comes with tent stakes and poles. Even when using a freestanding tent, staking down the corners provides extra security in windy or stormy conditions. Depending on the environment, you may want to invest in terrain-specific stakes.
Coleman tent poles are sturdy and durable enough to keep your tent standing through harsh weather. Coleman tents feature either aluminum or fiberglass pole options.
The rainfly is what will keep you dry during those unexpected downpours. A majority of Coleman tents feature an exterior removable rainfly you need to install separately, while a few options, specifically the instant and pop-up models, may have integrated rain protection built into the tent.
The vestibule is the area of the tent campers use to store gear and equipment. The overhang of the rainfly creates most vestibules, while others may be built-in and might feature mesh netting to keep out bugs. Choose an option with a sizable vestibule if you camp with a lot of gear.
Without ventilation, a tent would heat up quickly on hot days while trapping moisture inside. The mesh on the windows and doors helps create a cooling airflow, while roof and ground vents ventilate even when it's raining.
The tent doors also serve as the windows, and most feature either full mesh or partial mesh screens with a waterproof layer. You can zip these screens closed. Coleman offers standard zip doors as well as hinged doors for easy in-and-out access.
Interior storage pockets, gear lofts, lantern loops and E-ports are common features in a variety of Coleman tents. There also are models that utilize Coleman’s Dark Room material, which helps block sunlight so you can have a restful night’s sleep.
Coleman tent prices vary depending on style and capacity but most are $50-$150. Smaller inexpensive options can cost as little as $40 while large high-end tents can run as high as $350.
A. A tent footprint is a protective layer that goes underneath the base of your tent. While they aren’t always necessary for casual camping on softer terrain, they can help extend the lifespan of your tent, keeping it from ripping or tearing.
A. After years of use, the rainfly may not work as well as it once did. To return your rainfly to its previous condition, consider a waterproof seam sealer. Apply a durable water-repellent coating (DWR) to increase water resistance.
What you need to know: This tent is ideal for anyone who wants a quick and simple setup that will keep them protected no matter the weather.
What you’ll love: Since the poles come attached, you won’t have to worry about misplacing them. The built-in rain protection means you won't need to set up a rainfly.
What you should consider: The overall storage area can be limiting for some campers.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: Available in multiple sizes, this best-selling tent is an affordable option.
What you’ll love: By utilizing convenient ventilation panels, you can stay comfortable in a variety of climates and weather conditions. The compact size and light weight makes this tent easy to transport.
What you should consider: The Sundome tent doesn’t offer the most headroom compared to other Coleman options.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
What you need to know: Crafted from sunlight-blocking material, this tent is made for those who enjoy a good night’s sleep.
What you’ll love: The interior is large enough to fit a queen-sized air mattress. The front mesh vestibule area provides a space to relax and unwind when the bugs decide to swarm.
What you should consider: While still simple, the setup process takes slightly more time.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Matthew Young writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
