Camping with the family is a blast. Every year, my family impatiently waits for camping season to arrive. It’s one of our favorite activities and has really become an ongoing family tradition. If you have a family of four like I do, you can easily fit the whole family into one medium-sized camping tent. In fact, there are so many 4 person tents available, that it can be difficult to narrow down the selection.
To help you with the process, we’ve dug in and uncovered which camping tents are the best option for small families and groups. Are you ready?! Let’s take a look at the five best four person tents.
The 5 Best 4 Person Tents
5. Eureka Copper Canyon 4 Person Tent
The Eureka Copper Canyon 4 Person Tent is one of our favorite medium sized camping tents. The Copper Canyon’s design is a hybrid of a cabin and a dome tent. It features steep vertical walls that provide a spacious interior area, as well as efficient water run-off. The straight walls and high ceiling make it a great choice for tall people or those with baby cots.
Inside the tent are small mesh pockets for you to be able to keep your fast-access items off the floor. In addition, the tent also comes with a small removable ceiling hammock to hold larger items. Towards the base of the tent, there is a power-port. This power-port allows you to run a power cord in from a generator without sacrificing the insulation or waterproofing.
Unlike some other cabin style tents, the Copper Canyon actually holds up pretty well in tough weather conditions. The 75D polyester fabric gives this tent great weather protection, so you can relax knowing that a leak is not imminent. Additionally, the tent also has a strong, durable frame that is capable of withstanding wind speeds of over 35 mph.
You can set up the tent in less than ten minutes, which is significantly faster than many other cabin style camping tents.
Highlights
- Rating:
- Height: 59” (84’).
- Floor Space: 8’ x 8’ (4 people).
- Rooms: 1.
- Form Factor: Dome.
- Setup Time: 10 minutes.
- Material: Fabric — Polyester 75D 190T 1200 mm. Poles — Fiberglass and steel.
- Accessories: Carry bag, rainfly, ceiling hamper, and stakes.
- Weight: 18.6 pounds (8.4 kg).
Pros and Cons
4. QT Qomotop 60s Camping Tent
The QT Qomotop 60s Camping Tent is another one of our favorite options for medium-sized camping tents. This tent is quick and easy to set up and provides plenty of space for four adults. It features a cabin design which means that the side walls are steep, creating a spacious interior with enough room for everyone to be comfortable.
One of the most appealing features of this tent is the awesome 1 minute setup time. That’s right, you can pitch this entire tent in just 60 seconds. The instant set up features makes this a great option to just pull out of the car and quick set up while the kids are running around.
Additionally, this tent also comes with a small entrance mat, large enough for 4 pairs of boots. On top is a 68D rainfly that provides a decent level of waterproofing over the tents awesome panoramic mesh ceiling. The mesh ceiling makes this one of the best stargazing tents, so you and the family can explore the stars and planets at night while still remaining sheltered from insects and wildlife.
Inside of the tent, you will find excellent floor ventilation, large windows, and several mesh storage pockets for fast-access items. To prevent water from leaking in, the tent also features taped-seam stitching, which is very effective.
Highlights
- Rating:
- Height: 59” (4’11”).
- Floor Space: 8’ x 8’ (4 people).
- Rooms: 1.
- Form Factor: Cabin.
- Setup Time: 1 minute.
- Material: Fabric — 68D Polyester 600 mm. Poles — telescoping steel.
- Accessories: Carry bag, rainfly, a foot mat, and stakes.
- Weight: 16.75 pounds (7.6 kg).
Pros and Cons
3. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 4 Person Tent
The ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is another fantastic 4 person tent that is great for camping, hiking, and backpacking. If you are looking for a tent that will survive some rough treatment and will stand up to harsh weather, then this is it. The low dome shape gives the Lynx a superior level of wind-resistance over taller tents. In addition, the 75-denier waterproof material is thick and will cope well with heavy rainfall.
On the exterior of the tent, the rainfly eacts as two vestibules. These vestibules help to make some extra space to leave boots and wet clothing outside the main tent compartment — in front of the two doors. The ceiling is low, but that is fine since the tent makes up in strength from what it lacks in height. Most of the ceiling is mesh paneling, and the rainfly has built-in vents that can stay open while it is raining.
Inside of the tent, you will find a convenient, removable gear loft that hangs from the ceiling. For additional storage, there is also a small mesh pocket near the floor to place fast-access items.
One of our favorite features of the ALPS Mountaineering Lynx is the quick and easy set up process. The tent can be completely pitched in about a minute, which can save you a lot of time and energy. With such a quick and easy set up, the tent is a great option for small groups who are hiking or backpacking.
Highlights
- Rating:
- Height: 52” (4’ 4”).
- Floor Space: 7’ 6” x 8’ 6” (4 people).
- Rooms: 1.
- Form Factor: Dome.
- Setup Time: 1 minute.
- Material: Fabric — 75D 185T Polyester 2000 mm. Poles — Aluminum.
- Accessories: Carry bag, rainfly, storage pockets, gear loft, guy ropes, and stakes.
- Weight: 8.6 pounds (3.9 kg).
Pros and Cons
2. Coleman Cabin Tent
The Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Set Up is one of the more popular camping tents available. It is available in a 4, 6, and 10 person model, but even the 4 person model is pretty large. It measures 8 x 7 feet with a 4’ 11” center height, which means you can easily fit one queen-sized air mattress inside.
This is not a small tent, and there is no way you would want to transport this tent other than in the vehicle you took to the campsite. When packed, the Coleman Cabin Tent is a bit heavier than most other 4 person camping tents. Because of the size, it is a great option for car camping, but is not the best choice for backpacking or hiking.
One of the most notable features of this Coleman model is that it is an instant set up tent. The entire set up process, from unpacking to completely pitched, takes only about 60 seconds.
The main poles are telescopic aluminum and threaded through the fabric.And the fabric is a thick 150D polyester, which gives the occupants supreme insulation and protection from the rain.
Also included is a very effective, high quality rainfly, which works with the tent material to block up to 90% of the sunlight that hits it. This prevents overheating in the summer, and makes the Coleman perfect for sleeping in a little late, despite the sun. The ceiling is low — this is very much a tent that you will need to do a lot of stooping over in.
Highlights
- Rating:
- Height: 59” (4’11”).
- Floor Space: 8’ x 7’ (4 people).
- Rooms: 1.
- Form Factor: Cabin.
- Setup Time: 1 minute.
- Material: Fabric — Polyester 150D 1500 mm. Poles — Aluminum.
- Accessories: Carry bag, rainfly, guy lines, and stakes.
- Weight: 18 pounds (12.7 kg).
Pros and Cons
1. Coleman Sundome Tent
The Coleman Sundome Tent is one of the most popular camping tents on the market. Because the tent is durable, dependable, and affordable, the popularity and praise is well deserved. While it is available in four different sizes, ranging from 2 to 6 people, the 4 person model of the Sundome Tent is by far the most widespread version among campers, hikers, and backpackers.
Using a strong frame and water resistant fabric, the Sundome holds up very well in both windy and rainy conditions. The frame is tested to withstand winds over 35 mph. For water resistance, the tent features welded corners and inverted seams that prevent any water from leaking in. The rear mesh window also has an awning, so that you can have the ventilation without the rain coming in.
After entering the Sundome tent through a large D-door, you will find a spacious interior. Towards the base of the tent are mesh pockets that are great for storing any personal items. You will also find a ground vent to help circulate air throughout, and push the heat and condensation through the mesh ceiling. Additionally, there is a power porthole that can be used to route a cable into the tent from a nearby power source or generator, which is great for powering and charging any electronics inside the tent.
Highlights
- Rating:
- Height: 59” (4’11”).
- Floor Space: 9’ x 7’ (4 people).
- Rooms: 1.
- Form Factor: Dome.
- Setup Time: 10 minutes.
- Material: Fabric — Polyester 75D 1500 mm. Poles — Fiberglass 8.5 mm.
- Accessories: Carry bag, rainfly, and stakes.
- Weight: 9.8 pounds (4.4 kg).
Pros and Cons
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a 4 Person Tent
When it comes to choosing a new 4 person tent, there are a few factors that you should consider.
Shape and Style
The shape and style of the tent is one of the most important factors to consider. Some tent styles provide a stronger, more aerodynamic frame that is great for withstanding strong gusts of wind. Alternatively, some tent styles provide a more spacious interior that you can stand up and walk around inside of.
For instance, when it comes to medium-sized and family-sized camping tents, many of the most popular models feature a cabin style design. Cabin tents, which usually have straight walls, provide a lot of interior space, but are not capable of withstanding strong winds or harsh weather.
On the other hand, dome and geodesic tents cope much better with high winds. Their aerodynamic design results in a uniform flow of air over them, keeping the tent firmly planted in place. Tents with a snow skirt can help with the wind, and you can pile dirt on them to seal in the base.
Weight
Another important factor that you may want to consider is the weight of the camping tent. First, you should think about what type of activities you plan to use your new tent for. If you are simply car camping with your spouse and children, then weight will probably not be too much of a concern for you. However, if you are backpacking and hiking with a group of friends, you should definitely opt for a lightweight tent that is easy to carry.
In addition to the size of the tent, a lot of the weight is determined by the frame material. Typically, carbon fiber poles are the lightest and strongest solution, followed by fiberglass and aluminum.
Water Resistance
When it comes to staying dry, you should look for a tent fabric with a T-rating above 150. We also recommend that the denier for the base be higher than 50. In addition, many tents feature welded corners, inverted seams, and more water resistant features that are great for keeping the rain out. These are great features to have and they typically do not have a significant effect on the price point of the tent. For models with more water resistant features, you may want to consider opting for a waterproof camping tent.
Size
In order to choose a tent that is the best size for you, you should ask yourself how many people will be sleeping in it. While a four person tent is suitable for four people, the space inside will be a bit of a tight fit. If all four people also plan to store their gear inside of the tent, you should definitely consider choosing a tent that is designed for a larger capacity. A 6 person or 8 person tent is much more ideal for the group if everyone wants to store their personal stuff inside. In fact, to provide even more room for stretching and comfort, some small and medium-sized camping groups even opt for ten person camping tents.
At the end of the day, it comes down to the preference of you and your camping group. If your group is comfortable sleeping close together, there is no need to upgrade to a larger size, the four person tent will perfectly suit your group.
4 Person Tent FAQs
How do you tell how waterproof a tent is?
Tent manufacturers actually provide you with metrics for the water resistance capability of each tent model. In most cases, you will see a tent material explained with a variety of numbers, such as 75D 178T 1500 mm. Here is a quick breakdown of what each measurement represents:
- 75D is the density of the material or weight to volume. The higher the number in front of the D, the thicker the material.
- 178T is telling you the number of threads per square inch. The higher the number, the stronger the material.
- 1500 mm is a testing criterion called a hydrostatic head. This means that the material can withstand a column of water 1500 mm above it before it begins to leak.
Most waterproof camping tents are made of nylon fabric. If you have a canvas tent, you will almost certainly need to waterproof it.
Does a camping tent need air vents?
Adjustable air vents are a great feature that can be found in many modern camping tents. Air vents help circulate the air inside the tent, which increases the air flow and reduces the temperature. So while an air vent is not a necessity, it is very convenient during the hotter months of the year.
Also, in the event that the windows and doors of the tent are closed, air vents can help prevent condensation from building up inside of the tent. Condensation build-up can be dangerous in freezing weather and can lead to wet clothes and sleeping bags.
Why should I get a tent with a vestibule?
Vestibules offer an extra area for storing waterproof backpacks outside the main sleeping area. This exterior weather protection gives the tents occupants more space to move. A vestibule is also a great place to allow wet clothes and boots to dry without making the interior of the tent damp and dirty.
Good vestibules come to shape from pulling the rainfly with the guy lines. So, while they are a great addition to most tents, they do take up a little bit of extra space and time. However, the weight that they add is not significant or noticeable.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are camping with the family, or backpacking the trails with your buddies, a four person tent is a great investment. To determine the best 4 person tent for you, you should first decide whether you would prefer a cabin tent or a dome tent.
When it comes to medium-sized cabin tents, we recommend the Coleman Cabin Tent. Our favorite dome tent, and our top overall choice for the best 4 person tent, is the Coleman Sundome Tent. We regularly use it ourselves and we highly recommend trying it out.
Above all, remember to stay safe and have fun out there.
Happy Camping!
Is there a different four person camping tent that you love to bring camping? We would love to know what tent your family is bringing to the campsite! Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
