So, you wanna hit the great outdoors but not ready to rough it like a mountain man? Then car camping is the way to go, my fellow campers! You can load up your ride with all the essentials and set up camp in some seriously beautiful places. From lush forests to secluded beaches. But before you pack your bags, you gotta get yourself a kickass car camping tent. You want something that’s roomy, easy to pitch and take down, and can handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way. That’s why we’re here to help. We’ve rounded up the best car camping tents out there. So sit back and enjoy your next adventure in style and comfort.

Different Types of Car Camping Tents

The traditional freestanding tent is the most common and is set up on the ground next to the car. These can be found in various sizes and shapes, from dome tents to cabin-style tents. They usually require a separate footprint and rainfly to be fully weather-resistant.

Another option for a car camping tent is the truck bed tent. It is specifically designed to fit into the bed of a pickup truck, creating an elevated sleeping platform. These tents are easy to set up and provide a convenient way to camp in the back of a truck.

Lastly, rooftop tents have gained popularity in recent years. Particularly for their convenience and space-saving design. These tents are mounted on the roof rack of a car and can be easily set up and taken down. They offer a comfortable sleeping space that is off the ground, away from pests, and provides a great view.

It’s important to choose the right tent for your needs. Really think about what your needs will be. Review the number of people that the tent would need to fit. What are the regular weather conditions you expect to encounter? Also what type of car camping do you plan to do? Musical festival or a weekend adventure? Take the time and really think about how you would like to use it.

The perfect car camping tent isn’t a myth or legend mentioned only in whispers. But there are a few key things to keep in mind. We have done the leg work so you can choose the right tent for your next adventure. Here are some of the top factors that we recommend you consider:

Size:

The size of the tent is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a car camping tent. How many people are you expecting to have in your group? Do you need to store anything or will you just keep it in your car? Keep in mind that a 4-person tent may not comfortably fit four adults. There is no industry standard so be sure to check the dimensions of the tent before purchasing.

1. Tent Capacity: The capacity of a tent refers to the number of people the tent can accommodate. This number is usually included in the tent’s product description or specifications. The industry term “man” is a rough sizing standard. It is based on how many sleeping bags or sleeping mats can fit in the tent. The capacity is based on the assumption that everyone is sleeping side by side with no gear. Consider going up one size if you need extra space. For example, if you’re camping with two people, consider a 3- or 4-person tent.
2. Tent Dimensions: In addition to the capacity, it’s important to consider the tent’s dimensions. This includes the tent’s floor dimensions and peak height. The floor dimensions determine the tent’s total area. The peak height determines how tall the tent is in the center. These measurements can help you determine how much space you’ll have inside the tent.
3. Tent Shape: The shape of a tent can also impact its size and livability. Dome-shaped tents tend to have more headroom but less floor space. While cabin-shaped tents tend to have more floor space but less headroom.
4. Gear Storage: It’s important to consider how much gear you’ll be bringing with you on your camping trip. This impacts how much space you’ll need in your tent. Some tents include gear storage options, such as vestibules or gear lofts, which can help keep your gear organized and out of the way.

Doors:

Consider the number of doors you need, as well as their shape and orientation. If you’re camping with your family, multiple doors can be helpful to avoid climbing over each other for midnight bathroom breaks. Cabin-style tents tend to offer more doors and space. Additionally, consider how easy or noisy the doors are to zip open and shut.

1. Number of Doors: The number of doors a tent has is an important consideration when selecting a car camping tent. Multiple doors can be helpful if you’re camping with family or friends, as they provide easy access to different areas of the tent and can help avoid climbing over each other during the night.
2. Orientation: Consider the orientation of the doors, and how they will work with your campsite setup. For example, if you’re camping with your vehicle parked on one side of the tent, you may want to choose a tent with a door on the opposite side for easy access.
3. Shape: The shape of a tent can also impact the number and location of doors. For example, cabin-style tents tend to have more doors and windows, while dome-style tents tend to have fewer but larger doors.
4. Ease of Use: Consider how easy the doors are to use. Look for doors that are easy to zip open and shut, with quiet zippers that won’t disturb your camping companions during the night.

Durability:

Durable car camping tents are essential for withstanding the wear and tear of car camping trips. Look for a tent made from high-quality materials, such as canvas or heavy-duty nylon. The Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe Canvas Tent is a great example of a durable tent for car camping.

1. Materials: The materials used to construct the tent play a crucial role in its durability. Look for a tent made from high-quality materials, such as canvas or heavy-duty nylon. Look for fabrics that can withstand the wear and tear of car camping trips.
2. Construction: The construction of the tent can also impact its durability. Look for a tent with sturdy, well-constructed poles, seams that are reinforced with tape, and a rainfly that provides adequate protection from the elements.
3. Wind Resistance: Wind resistance is an important consideration for car camping tents, as they are often set up in exposed areas that are prone to high winds. Look for a tent with a sturdy frame and guy lines that can be secured to the ground to provide additional stability in windy conditions.
4. UV Protection: Exposure to sunlight can cause tent fabrics to break down over time. Look for a tent with UV-resistant materials or a UV-resistant coating to ensure that the tent will last for many camping trips.
5. Packability: While not directly related to durability, the packability of a tent can impact its longevity. A tent that packs down compactly is less likely to be damaged during transport and will take up less space in your vehicle.

Weather Resistance:

A weather-resistant tent is crucial for staying dry and comfortable during your camping trip. Look for a tent with a waterproof rainfly and taped seams. The Hewolf Waterproof Instant Camping Tent is a great option for its weather protection.

1. Rainfly: A rainfly is a critical component of any tent’s weather resistance. Look for a tent with a waterproof rainfly that extends all the way to the ground, providing maximum protection from rain and wind.
2. Seam Sealing: Look for a tent with sealed seams to prevent water from seeping through the stitching.
3. Floor Material: The material used for the tent floor can impact its weather resistance. Look for a tent with a durable, waterproof floor that can withstand moisture and keep you dry.
4. Wind Resistance: A tent that is not wind-resistant can be difficult to sleep in, and may even become damaged in high winds. Look for a tent with sturdy poles and guy lines that can be secured to the ground to provide additional stability in windy conditions.

Durability and weather resistance are related but distinct concepts. Durability refers to a tent’s ability to withstand wear and tear over time, including damage from rough handling, punctures, and abrasions. Weather resistance, on the other hand, refers to a tent’s ability to withstand the elements, such as rain, wind, and sun exposure.

While weather resistance is an important consideration when choosing a car camping tent, it’s also important to consider durability, as a durable tent will last longer and be more cost-effective in the long run. By considering both weather resistance and durability when selecting a car camping tent, you’ll be able to choose a tent that will keep you dry and comfortable, while also lasting for many camping trips.

Ease of Setup:

An easy-to-set-up tent can make your camping trip much more enjoyable. Look for a tent that can be set up quickly and easily, such as an instant tent. The Hewolf Waterproof Instant Camping Tent is a great example of an easy-to-set-up tent.

1. Design: Look for a tent with a simple design that is easy to set up, with a minimal number of poles and pieces. Tents with color-coded poles and corners can also help to make the setup process easier.
2. Size and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the tent when packed up, as a lighter tent with a smaller packed size may be easier to transport and set up.
3. Pop-Up or Instant Tents: Pop-up or instant tents are designed to be set up quickly and easily, often without the need for poles or complicated assembly. These can be a good option for those who want to set up camp quickly and easily.
4. Instructions: Make sure that the tent comes with clear instructions for setup, either printed or available online.

It’s also worth noting that while ease of setup is an important consideration when choosing a car camping tent, it shouldn’t be the only factor you consider. Make sure that the tent meets your other needs in terms of size, weather resistance, and durability. With these factors in mind, you can choose a tent that is easy to set up and will provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

When selecting a car camping tent, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors such as size, doors, durability, weather resistance, and ease of setup, you’ll be able to choose the perfect tent for your next car camping adventure.

Our Recommendations:

Tents are an essential part of any camping trip, and car camping is no exception. Choosing the right car camping tent can make all the difference for your experience. Here are some of the best tents for car camping, as recommended by experts:

1. Gazelle Tents T4: Its large size and ease of setup make it an excellent choice for car camping, as it allows for a comfortable camping experience without the hassle of complicated assembly or carrying heavy gear. 
2. Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe Canvas Tent: is an excellent choice for car camping, especially if you prioritize durability and reliability in your gear.
3. Hewolf Waterproof Instant Camping Tent: It may not be specifically marketed as a car camping tent, but its easy setup and waterproof design make it a suitable option for car camping.
4. Thule Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3: This tent is a great option for car camping as it provides a comfortable and elevated sleeping experience with the convenience of being attached to your vehicle.
5. Coleman Steel Creek Fast Pitch Dome Tent: With a capacity of six people, this tent is perfect for families or groups of friends who want to enjoy the great outdoors together.

When choosing a tent for car camping, it’s important to consider the size, weight, and durability of the tent. Look for a tent that is spacious enough to comfortably fit your group, easy to set up, and weather-resistant. Additionally, consider the type of car you will be using and make sure the tent can be easily transported and set up at your campsite. With these tent factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect tent for your next car camping adventure. Happy camping!