Camping is a great way to bond with the kids, and it’s not surprising if your little one loves doing it. It’s a fun activity that allows them to be one with nature. So, don’t be surprised if one day they want to sleep in their own little tent or camp with their friends instead of you! That’s why I think it’s always good to invest in the best tent for kids. I had the chance to test some of the most amazing tents along with my kid, and what we have here are the best options on the market. They’re lightweight, easy to set up, and many of them are big enough that you can also sleep inside with your kid. So, without further ado, let’s take a deeper look at these tents!
Table of contents
- ALPS Mountaineering Taurus Tent
- Kelty Late Start
- MOON LENCE Camping Tent
- The North Face Stormbreak 2
- KidzAdventure 2-in-1 Play Tent
- Coleman Instant Cabin Tent
- Wakeman 2-Person Camping Tent
- Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
- ALPS Mountaineering Koda 2 Tent
- Coleman Skydome Camping Tent
- Night Cat Backpacking Tent
- CAMEL CROWN Camping Dome Tent
- Coleman Kids Wonder Lake 2-Person Dome Tent
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Tents for Kids
- Why do kids like making tents?
- Is a tent a good shelter?
- Do kids like indoor tents?
ALPS Mountaineering Taurus Tent
13
Kicking off this list is the ALPS Mountaineering Taurus Tent, a reliable option that has everything kids and parents need. I was lucky enough to test plenty of tents, and this one easily caught my attention as it allowed me to bring a lot of stuff. This tent has several storage pockets, a gear loft, as well as a spacious vestibule, so you and your kid can organize your stuff easily.
Weighing only 10.8 lbs, this tent is a piece of cake to carry around, even for kids. But this doesn’t mean it’s not durable! The fiberglass frame is durable and extremely sturdy. In addition, it comes with a big D-shape door, so entering and exiting the tent is more convenient. Also, compared to other similar tents, this one is relatively more affordable!
Pros
- This is a fantastic tent that allows you to bring a lot of gear.
- It’s both lightweight and easy to assemble.
- Considering its features and durability, it’s surprisingly affordable.
Cons
- Not the most breathable option.
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Kelty Late Start
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What we have here is the Kelty Late Start, a reliable tent that adventurers love to use. That said, this tent is also a nice option for adventurous kids. The one or two-person variant should be big enough for most kids. However, what’s even more impressive is the fact that it can withstand the abuse on the campsite! The polyester material is truly that durable.
The design of this tent is kind of simple, and I like it a lot. There’s only one door, which is big enough, and there are no windows. Also, this tent is designed with convenience in mind. My boy spent a night in this tent, and I found him storing his lunch box and walkie-talkie inside one of the pockets at each corner.
Pros
- The tent’s build quality is amazing.
- It’s lightweight and easy to set up.
- There are many internal pockets for extra storage.
Cons
- Some people think it’s expensive.
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MOON LENCE Camping Tent
11
With everything it has to offer, including the MOON LENCE Camping Tent is a must. One of the biggest selling points of this camping tent is its straightforward assembly process. It can be set up in less than 10 minutes, and kids can easily learn how to do it as there’s an instruction manual included. Also, it comes complete with a carrying bag!
The D-shape door is big, allowing kids to enter and leave the tent easily. Plus, the mesh design provides great circulation, so it won’t feel stuffy inside the tent. If your kid loves to spend their time outdoors, you’ll want to get a tent that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Luckily, this tent does just that!
Pros
- It’s available in several different sizes.
- This tent is a breeze to set up.
- It also offers exceptional UV resistance.
Cons
- It can’t be set up alone.
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The North Face Stormbreak 2
10
More costly than most tents for kids, The North Face Stormbreak 2 is a great investment. First of all, this tent is designed to last. After all, it’s designed by The North Face, so you shouldn’t expect anything less. It can easily last for years. So, don’t be surprised if it’s still working properly even when your kid doesn’t fit inside anymore!
Additionally, this tent is easy to assemble. It took me not more than five minutes to set up, which was considered fast. Also, this tent comes with huge doors, so kids can go inside and leave the tent whenever they like without problems. Plus, the see-through design allows everyone to admire the beautiful outdoor views from the inside! Also, you should check out Outdoorworld’s review!
Pros
- It’s lightweight enough to be carried around by kids.
- There’s ample headroom for children.
- This tent is waterproof.
Cons
- It may be too expensive for kids who are trying to camp for the first time.
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KidzAdventure 2-in-1 Play Tent
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Best for Backyard. Not everyone needs a serious camping tent, right? That’s why I include the KidzAdventure 2-in-1 Play Tent! Of course, this tent isn’t made to withstand extreme weather conditions. Instead, it’s a fun option that’s big enough for backyard sleepovers. Not to mention, its bright color will 100% make it your kid’s favorite tent.
As the name suggests, this tent is suitable for both indoors and outdoors. Honestly, I didn’t expect the tent to come with a rainfly. Yes; it can’t withstand big rain nor is it suitable for serious camping trips. However, I was surprised that it could handle light rain! Also, it can be set up in no longer than five minutes.
Pros
- The tent’s compact design makes it easy to carry around.
- Surprisingly, the fabric of the tent is water-resistant.
- It’s the perfect option for fun backyard sleepovers.
Cons
- Not a reliable option for big camping trips.
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Coleman Instant Cabin Tent
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Best Premium. If you don’t mind spending a lot to ensure your beloved child has the best tent for kids, then you shouldn’t think twice about getting the Coleman Instant Cabin Tent. This premium tent has a lot of amazing features. However, what I think is its highlight is the fact that it can be assembled in less than a minute! Yes; I’m not joking! I’ve tried setting it up before and it didn’t take me more than a minute.
In addition to the effortless setup, I also love the polyguard fabric. This material effectively increases the lifespan of the tent and prevents leakage. Also, this tent can block up to 90% of sunlight. This means the temperature inside the tent will be enjoyable, allowing everyone, including your kid, to sleep better!
Pros
- Its instant setup allows kids to assemble the tent effortlessly.
- This tent can keep the temperature cool in hot temperatures.
- One of the most spacious options on the market.
Cons
- As I said earlier, it’s pretty expensive.
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Wakeman 2-Person Camping Tent
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Another highly recommended option for parents looking for the best tent for camping with kids is the Wakeman 2-Person Camping Tent. This isn’t a big tent; as the name suggests. But my son and I can stay comfortably inside this tent, so I think you and your child should have no problem as well! One of the things that I love the most about this tent is its color choices. It’s available in six different vibrant shades, so make sure to pick the one that’ll excite your kid the most!
With two poles, setting up this tent is nothing but a piece of cake. Not to mention, it’s pretty lightweight! It weighs only 2.75 lbs. I’m sure your kid can assemble it alone. And to guarantee comfort, it comes with mesh doors, which promise amazing ventilation.
Pros
- There are six vibrant colors to choose from.
- There’s a storage pocket to keep smaller items.
- It comes with a removable rain fly.
Cons
- Since this is one of the cheapest options, its durability isn’t on par with the more premium tents.
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Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
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Leaving the Coleman Sundome Tent out of this list is a crime! While it’s available in many sizes, we think the two-person variant is the perfect choice for kids. It’s big enough for most kids and their belongings. In addition to its size, this tent is also beloved by campers because of its durability. Designed to last for years, the interior is leakproof!
I also love the waterproof exterior polyester fabric. Also, whether it’s raining or shining, the hooded fly will always provide enough airflow so kids won’t feel stuffy inside. During testing, I was so happy to find out that the tent comes with an electrical access port! That way, kids can relax at night and charge their devices for the morning after!
Pros
- The fiberglass poles are durable.
- Setting this tent is a breeze for most kids.
- It’s well-ventilated, allowing kids to sleep comfortably.
Cons
- The quality of the zippers isn’t the best.
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ALPS Mountaineering Koda 2 Tent
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If you need a tent that can effectively protect your beloved one from any kind of climate, you should take a look at the ALPS Mountaineering Koda 2 Tent. This is a three-season tent that features a rugged rainfly along with mesh windows. They make the tent a reliable option when the weather is extremely hot. And with a durable rain fly as well as a waterproof coating, this is also a nice choice during rainy seasons.
This isn’t the biggest tent on the market. However, my boy didn’t have any problem sleeping inside the tent. Perfect for two, it should be spacious enough for most kids. It has enough space for not only a small air mattress but also overnight bags. It’s definitely worth the shot!
Pros
- It’s a compact tent that can be used for most weather.
- There’s also a carrying case.
- It’s extremely easy to assemble.
Cons
- Not the most spacious option.
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Coleman Skydome Camping Tent
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Best Durability. Personally, I hate getting something cheap that can only last a month or two. If you feel the same, you’ll certainly love the Coleman Skydome Camping Tent. This tent isn’t that expensive, as it’s still under 100 USD. However, it’s not the cheapest either. But what you’ll get is a ridiculously durable tent that can stand the abuse from camping.
I had the privilege to use this tent for a while, and I, along with my kid, truly had a blast. Though he didn’t take off his shoes inside the tent, the floor was perfectly fine. In addition to that, this tent has a pretty big entrance, which is a huge plus. Also, with pre-attached poles, kids will be able to set it up with their eyes closed! Check out Camping Guidance’s review video to learn more about this tent!
Pros
- The interior of this tent is super spacious.
- Depending on the size you get, it can fit up to eight people!
- It has more headroom than most Coleman tents.
Cons
- The poles aren’t the greatest.
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Night Cat Backpacking Tent
3
Roomy enough for two kids and their stuff, the Night Cat Backpacking Tent is a must-have for your little one. There are so many things to love about this tent. For one, it’s extremely easy to set up. Even kids who are camping for the first time can do it in minutes. Not to mention, it’s also waterproof. That way, you don’t have to worry about your child when they’re out there and it suddenly rains.
In addition to that, there are also two mesh windows at the top of the tent designed to enhance ventilation. And during testing, I noticed that the mesh windows didn’t let the bugs inside. Pretty cool, isn’t it? Also, since it weighs only 4.4 lbs, we’re sure kids won’t have a problem carrying it around.
Pros
- This portable and lightweight tent comes with foldable poles.
- It’s available in a wide range of color options.
- Easy for kids to assemble and take down by themselves.
Cons
- The poles aren’t the strongest.
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CAMEL CROWN Camping Dome Tent
2
Best Value for Money. I think the CAMEL CROWN Camping Dome Tent is a reliable option for kids who want to either camp alone or with their buddies. First of all, this tent is available in plenty of color options, though the Green variant seems to be the favorite. In addition to that, it’s also available in several sizes. It can fit two to five people comfortably, along with their hiking backpacks and other camping gear, of course.
Furthermore, this tent is a nice choice no matter when your kid wants to camp. Based on my testing, I think it can even be used even when it’s raining super hard. After all, the material of this tent is both windproof and waterproof. Best of all, it’s pretty affordable for most people!
Pros
- There are mosquito screens to keep insects away.
- It offers great durability without breaking your wallet.
- This is an excellent all-season tent.
Cons
- The quality of the stitching can be improved.
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Coleman Kids Wonder Lake 2-Person Dome Tent
1
Best Overall. My child lives to camp, and among all of the tents he’s ever tried, his favorite is the Coleman Kids Wonder Lake 2-Person Dome Tent. And to be honest with you, I’m surprised! When I first saw this tent, I was amazed by its colorful and eye-catching design. The teal color is surely going to catch any kid’s attention. Luckily, this tent is more than just an eye candy.
“The Coleman Wonder Lake ticks all the right boxes. I’ve accompanied my kid camping with this tent and it never gave us any trouble. If anything, it made our camping trip more enjoyable!”
Keedoz
As the best tent for kids, it’s designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. No matter how hard the rain is and how strong the wind gets, your kid will be safe inside. In addition to that, this tent is a breeze to set up. I let my kid set it up by himself and he didn’t have any troubles. Also, I love the addition of storage pockets, which can be used to store small camping must-haves. For more information about this tent, check out the official product page!
Pros
- You’ll be surprised by how spacious the interior is. It even fits a twin-size bed.
- The floors are waterproof.
- It’s made by one of the most trusted tent brands.
Cons
- Big adults may have a hard time accompanying their kids inside as the tent may be too small.
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Our Verdict!
Regardless of which tent you decide to get, your kid will surely be able to have a lot of fun with it. That said, I think the Coleman Kids Wonder Lake 2-Person Dome Tent is the best overall choice. It’s big, eye-catching, durable, and easy to set up. However, we understand that not everyone has the same preferences. That’s why I’ve categorized some of the tents above according to the following criteria.
- Best Value for Money: CAMEL CROWN Camping Dome Tent
- Best Durability: Coleman Skydome Camping Tent
- Best Premium: Coleman Instant Cabin Tent
- Best for Backyard: KidzAdventure 2-in-1 Play Tent
How To Choose The Best Tents for Kids
When choosing the right tent for your kid, there are a few things you need to consider, which include:
Size
The tent that you want to get should be big enough for your kid, depending on their age. Also, it should also be spacious enough to accommodate their camping bag, sleeping mat, and other camping necessities. However, you should make sure it’s not too heavy for the kid to carry.
Setup process
Tents used to be extremely complicated to assemble, even for adults. Luckily, the tents available nowadays are easy to set up. Always check how quick and easy the setup process is. If you want, you can get a tent with an instant setup, which only takes a minute or two to complete.
Durability
If your kid is going to camp in the backyard, there’s no need to get a tent that can withstand the storm. However, for serious campers, the tent should be well-built and comes with a solid frame that can withstand the wind and rain. That way, it won’t collapse in the middle of the night!
Why do kids like making tents?
Most kids love making tents because they let them have a place to play and have fun. In addition to that, they also help the kids use their imagination as if they’re living in their own world.
Is a tent a good shelter?
Of course! High-quality tents are able to keep the heat in during the night keeping everyone, including the kids, comfortable. They’ll also keep the insects and curious wildlife away.
Do kids like indoor tents?
It depends. If your kid loves playing indoors, then indoor tents may be good for them. However, if they love spending their time outdoors, it may be better to get an outdoor tent.