Pop up tents have revolutionized camping. One of the downsides of camping was setting up your tent each time you move to a new camping site. Arriving at a campsite, in the pouring rain, possibly in the dark, and then struggling for an hour to erect your tent. It could be the end of a beautiful relationship!
But now, with modern materials, putting up your tent can be done in under 10 seconds! In many cases, you simply open the carry case, and the tent springs into shape. All you have to do is peg out some guy lines, and you are done!
The 5 Best Selling Pop Up Tents
For your convenience, the below list shows the 5 best selling pop up tents currently for sale on Amazon.com. This list is automatically updated daily.
Our Selection of The 10 Best Pop Up Tents:
Pop tents come in all shapes and sizes. Below, we look at 10 of the best pop up tents, able to accommodate anywhere from 2 people to 6 people.
1. Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Camping Tent
Sleeps: 2-3
Pros
- Exceptional quality product
- Waterproof
- Ultraviolet protection
- Patented blackout fabric
- Good ventilation to prevent condensation
Cons
- Price – it’s the most expensive on the list
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This is easily the most expensive pop up tent in the review. It is from well-known camping company Quechua that are renowned for their quality products.
The 2 Seconds Fresh & Black two-man version reviewed here is no exception and packed with features. If you are looking for a lightweight, pop up tent for a serious camping expedition, then this could be the one.
As the name suggests, the tent can be erected in only two seconds, leaving you just the task of putting out the guy ropes. When it’s time to break camp, it just as easily folds down, with the built-in Easy Guide System.
The Quechua pop up tent uses a patented outer fabric that the company calls Fresh and Black. It prevents 99% of the light from entering the tent, even during the brightest days. Perfect when you need to get some rest during daylight hours.
On hot days, the Quechua pop up offers plenty of ventilation to keep you fresh. On each side is an opening panel that can be fixed with guy ropes. At the rear of the tent, the entire flysheet can be lifted from inside using a pre-attached line.
Ventilation is provided by the side and rear panels, plus ground ventilation panels on the side, to prevent the build-up of condensation inside. This also allows air to easily flow through and reduce the inside temperature. Inside the flysheet is a breathable polyester sleeping area. when the tent is erected correctly, the
The exterior fabric is coated in TiO2 ultraviolet reflective material and offers protection up to a UPF value of 50. Bear in mind that if you open the door, you will still need to apply suncream to protect yourself.
Waterproofing is vital if you are planning to hike and camp. You never know when the weather may break, and the last thing you need is a leaking tent. The Quechua pop up tent doesn’t disappoint here. All Quechua tent flysheets are tested under extreme conditions in the laboratory, plus rigorous field testing. This particular tent can withstand 2000 mm of water per hour, so it should be great for most situations. All the seams are heat-bonded to give 100% protection against water ingress.
In conclusion, the Quechua Pop Up Tent is a quality product that can be used in most conditions. It’s easy to set up and should give you years of great camping. But this is reflected in the price.
2. Hui Lingyang Automatic Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 6
Pros
- Huge, spacious tent
- Excellent ventilation
- Waterproof
- Power cord entry point
- Set up in seconds
Cons
- Size when folded down
- Relatively heavy
- Not the easiest to collapse down
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Designed to accommodate up to six people, the Hui Lingyang is another instant pop up tent, set up in seconds.
This is a vast tent, ideal for a family of up to six people. With say just four people, there is plenty of room for your luggage and personal belongings also.
Such a large tent requires plenty of ventilation, and the Hui Lingyang doesn’t disappoint. There are two windows on both sides with mesh screens, plus mesh screens on both of the entrance doors.
A handy feature is the access port for a power cable. Using this, you can charge all devices, such as mobile phones, from inside your tent or power internal lights.
The Hui Lingyang Pop Up Tent offers excellent waterproofing with the outer fabric rated up to 4000mm and the 100% waterproof groundsheet. Coupled with heat sealed taped seams, you should be perfectly dry and warm inside.
For a larger family, that want to take a camping vacation together, this could be the perfect tent with plenty of space, some useful features, and a reasonable price.
3. OT QOMOTOP Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 4 – 10
Pros
- Large family tent
- Set up in 60 seconds or less
- Low price for a large family tent
- Good ventilation
- Spacious
- Closable electrical cord port
Cons
- Only water resistant
- Size – this is not designed for hiking
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The QT QOMOTOP Pop Up tent is aimed squarely at the family market. It comes in four versions, 4-people, 6-people, 8-people, and 10-people.
For such a large design, it can be erected in an impressive 60 seconds, perfect when the weather is against you! It has also been designed so that a single person can easily set it up. The inner tent comes supplied with telescopic poles pre-attached. Simply extend the poles, and the material is pulled taut, giving you a rigid shelter in less than a minute.
If you are sure there won’t be any overnight rain, you don’t even need to put up the outer flysheet that covers the roof. Since the roof of the inner tent is made from a ventilated material, you can enjoy watching the stars from the comfort of your sleeping bag. With additional ground vents, the mesh roof gives plenty of ventilation, preventing condensation from forming.
When the weather is a little wetter, the material is rated at 600mm water resistance, so not entirely waterproof. However, all the seams are taped and heat-sealed, so you should stay dry in all except torrential downpours.
The most significant selling point of this tent is the internal space for the price. The four-person version measures 8 feet by 8 feet, and the center height is almost 5 feet. There’s plenty of space for a family of four, plus gear. For couples, you can fit a queen-sized airbed and still have plenty of space for all your gear.
The OT QOMOTOP Pop Up Tent is supplied with everything you need, such as tent pegs and a carry bag. Also, there are gear pockets and a gear loft for plenty of storage.
4. ABCO Sport Automatic Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 2
Pros
- Low price
- Very easy to set up
- Great ventilation and breathability
- Two doors for easy access
- Water-resistant
- UV protection
- Not waterproof
- Large carry bag – not suitable for hiking
Cons
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The ABCO Sport Automatic Instant Tent is by far the cheapest we have on review, at half the price of the next most expensive. Although it has been built down to a price, it has some great features which merit its inclusion.
Setting the tent up is simplicity itself. Open the carry bag, unfold the tent poles, and it springs into shape. Even without any guy ropes, the tent is reasonably rigid and excellent for a temporary shelter. Once the guy ropes are pegged out, the small size and rigid poles will be plenty for normal weather conditions.
Before going any further, let’s be clear. The ABCO Sport Automatic Instant Tent is not designed for anything other than casual camping. If you are going on a camping holiday, the small size and lack of waterproofing would soon become issues. That said, if you are on a road trip and want to camp occasionally when the weather is good, this could be just the thing.
A great feature is the double doors, one on each side of the tent. No need to disturb your fellow camper if you need to get out, as you have your own entrance. Perfect for that middle of the night call of nature.
Ventilation is another excellent feature of the ABCO Sport Automatic Instant Tent. Both of the entrances have mesh screens, and there are two mesh windows, one at each end. All the openings can be closed off for privacy if required.
Camping in the ABCO Sport Automatic Instant Tent is probably only advisable when the weather is okay. It is water-resistant, but the manufacturer does not mention any testing or whether the seams are heat-sealed. If you plan to camp regularly, in all weathers, this isn’t the right tent for you.
5. Weanas Easy Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 4
Pros
- Set up in seconds
- Waterproof
- Spacious
- Great ventilation
Cons
- Some may find folding the tent down difficult
- Not very compact when folded
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The Weanas Easy Pop Up Tent is a mid-priced product, with a great range of features. For a couple or small family, this could be the perfect pop up tent for short camping vacations.
The basic setup is effortless. Simply remove the tent from the carry bag, put the tent on the floor, and let go. The tent springs into shape instantly, and all you need to do is attach some guy ropes.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious interior, with floor space measuring 9.2 by 6.6 feet. The tent can accommodate up to four people, but if you need some storage space, it is better suited for two to three people.
Ventilation is provided by multiple windows and openings, keeping you cool and preventing condensation from forming. On each side are two mesh windows that also have privacy screens. A ground floor vent is provided on one side, bringing in plenty of fresh air.
At each end, you will find an entrance, again with mesh and privacy closures. Each entry also features a small covered area outside of the main tent. This is perfect for storing muddy boots and clothing, etc., helping to keep the tent interior clean and dry. There are also storage compartments inside for your phone and items you want to keep off the floor.
The Weanas Pop Up Tent is waterproof, with a rating of between 3000mm and 4000mm. All the seams are heat-sealed to prevent water ingress, and a heavy-duty groundsheet is fitted.
For short family camping vacations or trips to festivals, the Weanas Pop Up Tent would be perfect.
6. FASTCAMP Tribeca 5-Person Instant Setup Tent
Sleeps: 5
Pros
- Innovative push-button pole design
- Large hexagon interior
- Two doors
Cons
- Not as quick as other pop up tents to erect
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The FastCamp uses a slightly different approach to the majority of pop up tents. Instead of the poles being folded and twisted, they are telescopic. Simply push a button and extend the pole to put up the tent.
This innovative design allows FastCamp to produce a large hexagon pop up tent instead of the regular tube style. This makes the FastCamp a bit of a hybrid between pop up and instant tents.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious tent with an internal height of 53 inches, plus a built-in lantern hook on the ceiling.
For a pop-up tent, this offers lots of room but cheats slightly with the set up’s hybrid style.
7. Coleman 4-Person Pop-Up Tent
Sleeps: 4
Pros
- Large internal space
- Mesh inner tent roof for ventilation
Cons
- Low internal height
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Coleman is a very well-known brand in the camping arena, and their pop-up tent range offers speed of setting up and quality materials.
You can set up the four-person pop-up tent in seconds by simply opening the carry bag and extending the support poles.
The four-person pop-up benefits from the typical Coleman features, such as protected seams for waterproofing, a flexible frame to withstand strong winds, and excellent all-over waterproofing.
The inner tent roof is made of insect-proof mesh, giving excellent ventilation and preventing condensation from forming.
The Coleman is an excellent all-around choice at a reasonable price.
8. MOON LENCE Instant Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 5
Pros
- Reasonable price for its size
- Four large windows with mesh covering
- 52-inch internal head height
Cons
- Only a partial rainfly
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The Moon Lence is a pop-up tent that uses just a tiny rainfly to cover the very top of the tent. This is okay for recreational use, but in bad weather it will prove to be a limitation. That said, the inner tent is made of waterproof 190T polyester, and the groundsheet has a PU2000 rating, so gentle rain will not be a problem.
Excellent ventilation is provided by the five mesh windows and large entrance with mesh covering.
For a family camping weekend, the Moon Lence has plenty of room and will keep you comfortable from spring until autumn.
9. DEERFAMY 4 Person Pop Up Tent
Sleeps: 4
Pros
- PU2000 waterproofing
- Waterproofed zippers
Cons
- Heavy compared to the competition
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Deerfamy’s pop-up four-person tent offers spacious accommodation for up to four people, which you can assemble in seconds. Simply lift the top of the tent to extend the rods, then push down to lock them. Done in 60 seconds or less.
Once set up, you’ll find plenty of space inside for four people and their gear, but if you need more storage space, there is a hand vestibule over the front entrance.
All three windows have mesh covers to keep the bugs out but ensure excellent ventilation, while you can open the door fully for fresh airflow.
The Deerfamy is a great four-person tent at a reasonable price the will give you years of reliable service.
10. Eackrola Pop Up Tent for Camping
Sleeps: 4
Pros
- Packs up flat for easy transport and storage
- Lightweight
Cons
- Only a single skin tent
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The Eackrola pop-up tent takes just seconds to erect by simply removing it from the bag and pulling on the frame poles to expand the outer material. Fix down the guy ropes, and you are done.
Ventilation is provided by two side windows and an entrance at each end, preventing condensation and keeping the tent air fresh. The rainfly is covered with a PU2000 coating for adequate rain protection, while inside, you’ll find neat touches such as the mesh gear pockets.
If you are not looking to spend too much money but want a good-sized tent for family weekend camping, the Eackrola could be ideal.
What to Look for When Buying a Pop Up Tent
Ease of Use
We all want equipment that is easy and simple to use, but a compromise is often made. Pop Up, and Instant Tents are easy to use, of that, there is no question. They can be erected in just a few seconds, giving you a shelter very quickly.
There are several compromises made to achieve this ease of use;
- Size – because the tent poles are incorporated within the flysheet of pop up tents, they usually cannot be folded to a small size.
- Weight – in most cases, lightweight is not one of the must-have features of pop up tents.
- Strength – for general use, pop up tents are fine. Just don’t expect them to withstand a strong wind on an exposed mountain top.
Waterproof or Water-Resistant
The original design of pop up tents was for gentle recreational use, and so waterproofing was not high on the feature list. Using water-resistant materials, the manufacturers could reduce the price and focus on the speed of erecting the tent.
Continued development of this type of tent has seen more specialized versions, used for long term camping. In these situations, waterproofing, over water resistance, is clearly more important.
Check the specifications carefully. The description should mention the waterproof rating , somewhere between 800mm to 10,000mm. The higher the rating, the more waterproof the material. The Quechua 2 man pop up tent has a rating of 2,000mm. This means it can withstand a two-meter column of water on the material surface before it starts to leak.
With that said, it’s essential to consider what you will be using the tent for. There’s no point in paying extra for a tent with a rating of 5,000mm when you are only going to be camping occasionally in calm conditions.
The waterproof rating only applies to the material. Just as important are the seams. If they are not heat bonded, they will probably leak.
And finally, you must erect the tent correctly following the manufacturer’s instructions. Not doing so will also affect how waterproof the tent is.
How much space do you need?
When checking the specifications of a tent, it will usually show the size of the groundsheet. It’s easy to forget that you’ll need extra space all around the tent for access and the guy ropes when erected.
Some pop up tents are rigid enough to be used without guy ropes, but only in almost windless conditions. Plus, do you want to be trying to attach guy ropes in the pitch black, after the wind has increased during the night? Probably not!
Getting in and out of your pop up tent
One crucial factor overlooked when looking at tents is how easy it is to get in and out. It sounds simple enough, but pop up tents are often smaller than regular tents for many reasons.
Check the size of the entrances and for tents accomodating three or more people, how many entries. When you have to climb over people in the middle of the night, you will regret buying a tent with just one entrance!
FAQs
What is a pop up tent?
What is an instant tent?
How do you set up a pop up tent?
Are pop up tents waterproof?
What are pop up tents designed for?
Conclusion
Since their original invention, pop up tents have come on leaps and bounds. Additional features and excellent waterproofing have been added to the exceptional ease of use.
As with anything, there is a range of pop tents available, depending on your requirements. In most cases, even the best pop up tents are not aimed at the serious outdoor adventure sports person. The main reason for this being that a pop up tent doesn’t fold down very small.
If you are thinking of a family camping vacation, setting up camp close to your vehicle, or maybe an additional room when in an RV, then pop up tents will be perfect.
The Quechua Waterproof tent is undoubtedly the best on review here but at a price. It comes packed with features, it’s waterproof and well built. At the other end of the scale is the ABCO Sport, great for festivals or using on the beach.
Our recommendation is to seriously assess your needs. Will you be camping regularly, or just very occasionally? Do you need all the features offered by the more expensive products? Do you want extra space, or are you happy squeezing into a smaller tent?
Answering those questions will help you decide on the best choice for you. If camping is a new activity for you, take a look at this camping for beginners article. It should help to answer many of your questions. Don’t forget you need to be comfortable when camping, particularly the kids. Our review of the best kids sleeping bags should help.
This review has covered the best pop up tent, up to six people in size. If you need something larger, then read our review of the best 12 person tents or the best 8 person tents.
Whatever camping tent you choose, make sure you enjoy the outdoor adventure and, ultimately, have fun!
Pop Up Tents Summary Table
Here’s a quick summary of the 10 best pop-up tents currently on the market. You can find our full review of each pop up tent further up in the article.
| Product | Sleeps | Time to Erect | Weight (pounds) | Cost | Fabric | Waterproof | Center Height (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quechua Waterproof Pop Up Camping Tent | 3 | Instant | 7.3 | $$$$$ | polyester | Yes | 40 |
| OT QOMOTOP Tent | 4 | 60 seconds | 16.75 | $$ | 68D polyester | Yes | 59 |
| ABCO Sport Automatic Instant Tent | 2 | Instant | 3.8 | $ | polyester | No | 37.4 |
| Weanas Easy Pop Up Tent | 3 – 4 | Instant | 8 | $$$ | 190T polyester | Yes | 46.8 |
| Hui Lingyang Automatic Pop Up Tent | 3 – 6 | Instant | 11.68 | $$$ | 190T polyesater | Yes | 53.5 |
| FastCamp Pop Up Tent | 5 | 60 seconds | Not stated | $$ | 190T polyesater | Yes | 53 |
| Coleman 4-Person Pop-Up Tent | 4 | Instant | 7.07 | $$ | 185T polyester | Yes | 29 |
| Moon Lence | 4 – 5 | Instant | 10.25 | $$ | 190T polyester | Yes | 52.4 |
| Deerfamy Pop Up Tent | 4 | 60 seconds | 10.8 | $$ | 190T polyester | No | 59.4 |
| Eackrola Pop up tent | 4 | Instant | 7 | $$$ | 190T polyester | Yes | 47 |
This article was last updated on November 28, 2022 .
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