Chris Burkard
Solo Adventure
At a mere 1 pound, 11 ounces, this tiny, tough tent is worth every ounce. The Featherlite aluminum poles are super sturdy and amazingly lightweight. Your pack will stay dry under the generous vestibule, and you’ll be cozy inside no matter how many nights you spend on the trail.
Courtesy of REI
Perfect for Couples
- The North Face Talus 2, $199
Whether you’re backpacking or car camping, the Talus 2 is a great choice for snuggling with your partner at the end of a long day. Set-up is a breeze, ventilation pockets make it comfortable no matter the temperature, and dual doors make for easy entry. At $199, you can’t beat the price—and the footprint is included!
Courtesy of REI
The More the Merrier
- REI Kingdom 8, $529
If you’re going camping with, say, your husband, three kids, and in-laws, you’re going to want a monstrous tent like the Kingdom 8. The center divider creates private rooms (a must) and two huge doors means no one has to struggle getting in and out. High quality and weatherproof, everyone in your group will enjoy this tent.
Courtesy of Black Diamond
Instant Shelter
- Black Diamond Beta Light, $200
A tarp shelter that sets up in a flash with two trekking poles, this super-compact tent will take up less room in your pack than a water bottle. Two people and gear can weather rain and wind in comfort with this shelter that sets up in seconds.
Courtesy of Tepui Tents
Room with a View
- Tepui Kukenam Ruggedized SKY 3, $1,950
For extended road trips, this car-top tent is an excellent choice. It’ll save you precious cargo space in the back of your vehicle—and it offers way better views than a motel room. This super-tough tent will keep you dry and cozy no matter what—especially with an anti-condensation mat under the mattress.
Courtesy of Kelty
Stargazer’s Delight
- Kelty TN2, $250
Spending a clear night in the TN2 is just like sleeping under the stars—without getting eaten alive by mosquitoes. The Stargazing Fly is easy to roll up for an unmatched nighttime view—and just as easy to tug down if a rain shower sneaks up on you. You’ll love the easy set up and durable materials, too.
Courtesy of Advanced Shelter Systems Inc.
Geodesic Style
- Shiftpod2, $1,299
The Shiftpod2 is the ultimate home away from home. It might be unwieldy to transport, but it sets up surprisingly quickly. The reflective “dark out” fabric keeps the inside comfortably cool at all hours of the day—perfect for desert camping or a trip to Burning Man. Camping with friends? You can connect up to 6 Shiftpods to form a hub!
Courtesy of REI
Winter Wonder
If you’re adventurous enough to spend a night outdoors in the snow, the four-season Mountain 25 is going to be your best friend. This durable tent stands any extreme weather Mother Nature might throw at you—you’ll stay warm and dry without having to worry about wind or condensation.
Courtesy of REI
No-Frills Classic
- REI Half Dome 3 Plus, $279
Are you the kind of person who goes car camping a few times a year, maybe backpacking a couple of nights—nothing extreme? If that’s you, then you need a versatile, all-around practical tent like the REI Half Dome. The 2018 model is lightweight, easy to set up, roomy, and sturdy. The 3-person size is perfect for a couple with extra room for comfort, but 2- and 4-person sizes are also available.
Courtesy of Springbar
Springbar Highline 6
- Springbar Highline 6, $599
Springbar has been making canvas tents in this style since 1961—and with good reason. The tent may look like it would be bulky to handle, but the genius design allows one person to pitch this 100 square-foot tent in minutes. Plus, it’s made with military-grade duck canvas that will stand up to any kind of weather.