Top Camping Tents for Families: Spacious, Comfy, and Adventure-Ready
Looking for the best camping tents for families?
Are you planning a family camping trip but struggling to find the perfect tent to accommodate everyone?
With so many different options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the top camping tents for families on the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these tents will make your next family camping trip successful.
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Coleman Northstar 10 Person Darkroom™ Technology Tent with LED
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✅ Best Weather Protection
✅ Superior Ventilation
10 Best Family Camping Tents in 2024
We’ve compiled a list of the ten best tents for families to help you with your next camping adventure!
1. Coleman Northstar 10 Person Darkroom™ Technology Tent with LED
⭐ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Coleman Northstar Instant Up Darkroom 10-Person Tent is a game-changer for family camping.
It is the best camping tent Australia Travel Hub recommends because it offers space, comfort, and ease.
⛺ WeatherTec™ technology keeps you dry with its tough RipStop material and leak-free seams so that rain won’t spoil your trip. Plus, the heavy-duty floor handles up to 3,000 mm of water pressure—no more waking up in puddles!
⛺ Built to last, this tent can handle the harshest Aussie weather. You’ll feel confident it’ll hold up year after year.
⛺ The DarkRoom™ Technology is a lifesaver! It blocks out 95% of sunlight and keeps things up to 5°C cooler inside—perfect for lazy mornings or escaping the midday heat.
⛺ Setup is super easy. Thanks to the Instant Up frame, you’ll have it up in under 3 minutes. No stress, just more time to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, the reflective ropes help you avoid tripping at night.
⛺ Love the built-in LED strip lighting—up to 72 hours of brightness, powered by 4D batteries or a USB power bank. It makes those dark camping nights so much easier!
2. Oztrail Genesis II 9-Person Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Oztrail Genesis II 9-Person Tent is a fantastic option for the best family camping tents or large groups looking for a roomy, well-designed tent.
⛺ It has a spacious dome shape that gives you excellent headroom. Inside, you’ll find two private bedrooms separated by a central living area—plenty of space for everyone to spread out and relax after a day of adventure.
⛺ This tent is all about comfort, and the large rear and side windows help keep things cool and breezy. The oversized D-door makes getting in and out super easy, and the No-See-Um mesh keeps all those pesky bugs out while still allowing airflow.
⛺ Setting it up? It’s super simple! The tent is quick to pitch and strong enough to handle some rough weather, thanks to the cross-pole construction. Tentsile tabs and J hooks make securing it to the poles easy.
⛺ Worried about rain? The silver-coated Uvtex 2000 fly and DryGuard Plus provide solid protection against wind-driven rain, keeping you dry no matter the weather. The front awning is perfect for outdoor meals or hanging out in the shade.
⛺ When you’re done, the whole thing packs up neatly into a compact carry bag, making it easy to transport and store.
3. Core 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent – 14′ x 9′
⭐ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Core 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent is designed for quick and easy setup, making it a great choice for family camping trips or group outings.
With its pre-attached poles, this tent can be set up in just 2 minutes, allowing you to enjoy your adventure more.
⛺ Spacious Design: The 14′ x 9′ floor plan comfortably fits two queen-size air beds and offers enough space to sleep up to nine people in sleeping bags or four people with plenty of gear.
⛺ Weather Protection: This tent features H20 Block Technology with 1200mm water-repellent fabric, a fully taped rainfly, sealed seams, and fully zipped windows. It also includes guylines and steel stakes for added stability in windy conditions.
⛺ Interior Organization: It includes storage pockets to keep small items and accessories organized and off the tent floor, making it easier to find what you need.
⛺ Adjustable Ventilation: The tent’s lower vents draw in cool air from the ground, while the mesh ceiling allows hot air to escape, creating a comfortable environment inside.
⛺ Removable Rainfly: Enjoy stargazing through the large mesh ceiling panels, and rest assured knowing the rainfly’s heat-sealed, thick tape provides excellent protection from rain and wind when needed.
4. GoHimal 8-Person Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The GoHimal 8-Person Family Tent is perfect for those who love to camp comfortably and need plenty of space for everyone.
Whether you’re heading out with family or friends, this is one of the family-size tents that ensures you’ve got room to spread out and enjoy the outdoors.
⛺ Designed to comfortably fit up to 8 people, with plenty of room for three queen air mattresses or eight sleeping bags. It’s perfect for family camping trips where everyone needs space to relax.
⛺ Built tough with 190T ripstop polyester fabric and a PU2000 mm waterproof coating, this tent will keep you dry even in rainy weather. The fibreglass poles provide excellent stability, allowing them to handle rough weather easily.
⛺ One of the best features is its ventilation. With a large mesh door and four mesh windows, fresh air flows in easily while keeping bugs out. The top canopy also allows natural light, making the inside bright and airy.
⛺ Setting up is quick and easy—it only takes two people about 10 minutes. When you’re done, it packs neatly into a compact carry bag, making it super convenient for storage and travel.
⛺ Whether camping, hiking or on a road trip, this is the best family tent Australia Travel Hub recommends. It suits all weather conditions, and its windproof and waterproof design makes it a solid choice for any outdoor adventure.
5. Spinifex Mawson Eclipse™ Technology Instant 8-Person Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Spinifex Mawson Eclipse™ Technology Tent is a reliable, spacious, and easy-to-use option for anyone searching for the best camping tents Australia has to offer.
⛺This tent’s standout feature is the Eclipse™ Technology, which blocks out early morning sunlight – perfect for families who want to sleep in a bit longer or get the kids to bed early.
⛺ With an instant setup that takes just 2 minutes, this tent is all about efficiency, making it one of the top family camping tents available. There is no need to wrestle with poles—just more time to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
⛺ Inside, you’ll find plenty of space, with two separate private rooms and a large front D-door for easy access. The large front awning adds extra space for relaxing in the shade or gathering for meals.
⛺ Durability is key, and the PU 1,500mm Fly ensures the tent stays dry during rain, keeping the interior cosy and protected.
⛺ Ventilation is top-notch, and the tent’s breathable design allows fresh air to circulate freely, keeping it comfortable and airy.
6. Naturehike 6-8 Person Camping Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Naturehike 6-8 Person Camping Tent offers plenty of space for family camping trips. Its dimensions are 304 x 195 x 426 cm, and its height is 1.95m, allowing easy movement inside.
It features three large doors for convenient access, which can also be used as a canopy or sun shelter (poles not included).
⛺ Convenient Features: Comes with detachable storage pockets, an electrical port for power access, and durable SBS zippers for smooth operation.
⛺ Two Rooms and Outdoor Cinema: This package includes a room divider for added privacy and a detachable screen for setting up an outdoor cinema experience.
⛺ Excellent Ventilation: Designed with five-sided ventilation, it has three large windows and doors for airflow, plus a mesh skylight for night-time views.
⛺ Waterproof and Windproof: Made from durable 150D Oxford cloth with a 3000mm waterproof coating, it ensures reliable protection against the elements. Pre-attached poles, steel stakes, and wind ropes add to their stability.
7. Coleman Camping Instant Up Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Coleman Camping Instant Up Tent is a spacious and easy-to-set-up option for family camping.
Its patented Instant Up frame allows a quick setup, making it perfect for camping trips with minimal fuss.
⛺ Ventilation and Airflow: Mesh windows help with airflow, reducing condensation in warm weather.
⛺ Ample Shade and Accessibility: Features a large peaked awning for extra shade and four entry points for convenient access.
⛺ Flexible Interior: A removable room divider for added privacy allows you to create separate living spaces.
⛺ Durable and Weatherproof: It is made with a waterproof 150D denier full fly and a heavy-duty welded PE floor to keep you dry and protected from the elements.
8. UNP Camping Tent 10-Person-Family Tents
⭐ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The UNP Camping Tent is designed for large family camping trips. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates 10 people or three queen-size air mattresses.
With dimensions of 18ft x 9ft x 78in, this tent offers plenty of room for a comfortable camping experience.
⛺ Convenient Features: The carry bag is spacious and includes an electrical access port, gear loft, mesh storage pockets, and hooks for hanging a camping lantern. It is also easy to pack up after use.
⛺ Quick Setup: Attaches easily using FRP poles and J hooks, eliminating the hassle of threading poles through sleeves. Two people can set it up in about 8 minutes.
⛺ Versatile Interior: This unit features a privacy divider that creates two separate rooms, making it a versatile living space. It can even be an outdoor cinema by projecting videos onto the divider screen.
⛺ Good Ventilation: It has a large mesh roof for stargazing, multiple mesh windows on all sides, and two doors to keep the air flowing while keeping bugs out.
⛺ Weatherproof Design: Made from durable 185T PU1000mm polyester fabric, it offers excellent water resistance. The rainfly has a vestibular and extended awning design to keep rain out.
9. Naturehike Instant Pop-Up Family Tent
⭐ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The Naturehike Village Series Instant Pop-Up Tent is designed for easy setup and family camping.
It is made of durable materials and has a spacious interior that suits various outdoor activities.
⛺ Included Accessories: Comes with a carry bag, rainfly, vestibule poles, stakes, wind ropes, and all necessary attachments for a secure setup.
⛺ Instant Setup: This product features pre-attached poles and an automatic structure that allows quick assembly in just 5 minutes, even for beginners.
⛺ Spacious Design: It measures 6m x 2.3m and is 2 m high, providing plenty of room for standing and moving around. It includes one large room with up to 3 people and a big hall ideal for picnics, games, or gatherings.
⛺ Versatile Vestibule Area: Equipped with three large doors that can be used as vestibules, offering extra shaded space and activity areas for added comfort.
⛺ Great Ventilation: The room includes five large mesh windows, a top screen window, and three mesh doors for excellent airflow and visibility. The hall area can also serve as a screened-in room.
⛺ Weather and UV Protection: It is made from 210D Oxford Cloth with a silver coating for UPF50+ protection against harmful UV rays. The 420D PVC floor and 3000mm waterproof rating ensure durability in various weather conditions.
10. Grass Fun Extra Large Tent 10-12 Person
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 (Read more reviews here)
The GRASS FUN Extra Large Tent is designed for group camping. It offers a spacious interior and durable construction, ideal for those who enjoy a hands-on setup.
⛺ Versatile Features: The straight wall design maximises space, while the door awnings can be converted into a sun shelter. The mesh roof allows for stargazing, adding a touch of magic to your camping nights.
⛺ Manual Setup: This tent requires manual assembly, involving pole extension and secure placement of stakes and guy lines, making it a good choice for campers with some DIY skills.
⛺ Spacious Interior: At 4.3m x 3m and with a 2m ceiling height, it comfortably accommodates 10-12 people. It features three mesh door entries, windows, and a room divider for added privacy.
⛺ Durable Construction: Made from polyester fabric, it offers protection from rain and UV rays. It includes 20mm steel poles and stakes for excellent wind resistance and stability.
Camping Tents 101: Types of Tent
Camping is an exciting outdoor activity that allows you to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the most important things to consider when planning a camping trip is the type of tent you will use.
Camping tents for families come in different shapes, sizes, and designs, each with unique features that cater to specific camping needs. Let’s explore the various types of tents available in the market.
- Dome tents are the most popular for families and are suitable for various camping activities. Their rounded shape provides ample headroom and interior space.
Dome tents are easy to set up and come in various sizes, from small two-person to large family-size tents. They are also lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for backpackers and hikers. - Cabin tents are spacious and provide a home-like feel, thanks to their straight walls and high ceilings. They make the best tents for family camping trips and can comfortably accommodate large groups.
Cabin tents are also great for car camping but are heavy and bulky, making them unsuitable for backpacking. Some cabin tents have separate rooms that provide privacy, making them ideal for families with children. - Tunnel tents are long and narrow, with a tunnel-like shape. They are popular among backpackers and hikers because they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Tunnel tents suit windy conditions, as their low profile reduces wind resistance. However, they have less headroom than other tents and are unsuitable for tall people. - Pop-up tents are the easiest to set up and take down, making them ideal for novice campers. Their flexible frame allows them to pop up into shape when you take them out of the bag.
Pop-up tents are lightweight and easy to pack, making them suitable for backpackers and hikers. However, they are not as durable as other tents and are unsuitable for extreme weather conditions.
Understanding The Tent Terms
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends.
However, if you’re new to camping, you might feel overwhelmed by all the different tent terms.
Understanding these terms is important because it can help you choose the right tent for your needs.
Here’s a list of tent terms you need to know:
Capacity
A tent’s capacity is the number of people it can comfortably sleep. When choosing a tent, consider the number of people using it. You don’t want to have a tent too small for your group.
Seasons
Tents are categorized according to the number of seasons they can be used in.
A 3-season tent is designed for spring, summer, and fall, while a 4-season tent is designed for all seasons, including winter. 4-season tents are more durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Pole Material
The material used for tent poles can affect the tent’s weight, strength, and durability. Aluminium poles are lightweight and strong, while fibreglass poles are less expensive but heavier.
Carbon fibre poles are the lightest but also the most expensive.
Rainfly
A rainfly is a waterproof cover that protects the tent from rain. Some tents have a built-in rainfly, while others require you to attach it separately.
Choosing a tent with a rainfly is important if you expect to encounter rainy weather.
Vestibule
A vestibule is a covered area outside the tent’s entrance where you can store your gear. It’s a great feature because it keeps your gear dry and organized while keeping the inside of the tent clean.
Floor Material
The material used for the tent floor can affect its durability and waterproofness.
Nylon and polyester are commonly used for tent floors because they are lightweight and durable.
Some tents also have a bathtub-style floor to prevent water from seeping in from the sides.
Things To Consider in Buying Australian Tents
Choosing the best family camping tents is essential for making your outdoor adventure enjoyable.
This guide will explain everything you need to know, from roomy family-size tents to options that handle unpredictable weather.
Find out how to pick the best tents for families, considering space, ventilation, and ease of set-up. Then, you can focus on enjoying your camping experience.
Size
Suffice it to say that the more people you have, the larger your tent needs. Hence, it might be a good idea to size up.
Since family camping isn’t only about having fun, it’s also about being comfortable.
Thus, a two-person tent is more likely to fit in the backseat of your vehicle, where space and size are less of a concern.
A larger tent will save you money in the long run if your camping group grows and you need to expand your shelter.
Finally, measure out an estimated tent floor plan at your destination to get an idea of the size you’ll need if you purchase it online.
Environment
Whether heading to the high desert, a forested area, or a reserved campsite, you’ll need the right tent to make the most of your adventure.
It’s always a good idea to check the area’s weather history for the time of year you visit so you’re prepared for any conditions.
And don’t forget about those pesky insects! If you’re camping near water in the summer, keeping bugs like mosquitoes and bedbugs at bay is essential, especially if you have kids.
Ensure your tent offers protection to ensure a peaceful, bite-free sleep.
Accessibility
Many campers struggle with getting in and out of their family tents, especially in larger groups. Having easily accessible doors is a must for both convenience and safety.
You’ll find that some family tents require you to crawl over others to exit, force you to duck down, or have door bottoms that are easy to trip over.
That’s why picking a tent with doors that offer easy access should be one of your top priorities for a smoother camping experience.
Portability
Take into account how much weight you’re carrying in your bag. Tents for families that are both lightweight and robust are ideal for camping.
In addition to the tent itself, you’ll need to pack poles, stakes, and any other extras that came with it.
Family Camping Tent FAQs
How do I choose a family camping tent?
Choosing a family camping tent depends on the group size, setup ease, and weather resistance. Look for a tent with enough space for everyone, including room dividers for privacy. Opt for durable, waterproof materials and good ventilation. Quick setup features like instant or pop-up designs make a huge difference on busy trips.
How big of a tent do I need for a family of four
A tent with at least 60 square feet of floor space is ideal for a family of four, typically labelled as a 4-6-person tent. Consider a model with extra space for gear, room dividers, and a comfortable centre height, especially if you prefer more room to move around or store belongings.
Are tents safe to sleep in?
Tents are generally safe when used properly, offering protection from the elements and insects. Ensure the tent is anchored and ventilated to avoid condensation or heat buildup. Be mindful of your surroundings, like avoiding pitching near unstable trees or low-lying areas prone to flooding.
What size tent for a family of 3?
For a family of three, a 3-4-person tent is recommended to provide enough space for sleeping bags and some gear. Choosing a tent with around 45-50 square feet of floor space ensures comfort, and a taller centre height can add extra headroom for moving inside.
The Wrap-Up: Best Australian Tents
Family camping tents are a must if you’re planning a trip with the whole crew. After reviewing this guide, I hope you feel more confident about picking the best tent for your family.
Don’t let the process overwhelm you—finding the right tent doesn’t have to be stressful.
While it’s a significant investment, a quality tent will last for years, and with the right approach, you’ll end up with something perfect for your family’s adventures.