A camping experience will, undoubtedly, be incomplete without a tent. However, there is a need for one to be relatively careful when selecting a tent, with the budget being a top priority.
This guide will help you choose your best tent under $200!
Quick Pick for Different Numbers of People
What size of the tent can you buy with a budget under $200? Let’s have a look.
For 1 Person, ultralight for backpacking, a vestibule for extra storage: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx Tent
For 2 People, hot sale, D-door for easy entry: Kelty Salida Lightweight 3 Season Tent
For 4 Person, double vestibules for more space, 2 large door making easy access: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx Tent
For 6 Person, top-rated, instant setup to save time: Coleman Instant Cabin Tent
For 8 Men, roomier space to live in, 4 season for highly weatherproof: Core 9 Person Dome Tent
What to Look for When Buying the Best Camping Tent Below 200 Dollars?
1. Capacity
How many people can the camping tent accommodate at a time?
Well, always avoid accepting the fact that a four-person tent is suitable for use by four people. In most cases, four-person tents can accommodate four people, but such tents provide a tight fit for such people, which means that you might never have some extra room for baggage.
Therefore, always consider the internal dimensions of the tent and preferably, opt for bigger tents.
If you are looking for a tent for use by six people, you could at least opt for an 8-person tent so that you can benefit from extra room to store your luggage.
2. Weatherproofing capability
Which time of the year are you planning to use your tent?
The best camping tent under $200 must stand up to the elements you expose it. For instance, a tent that is designed for use during the summer needs to be lightweight, but such a tent must provide adequate ventilation to keep you cool during the hot weather.
On the other hand, a tent for use during the winter should have materials that will resist the rain and snow. However, when you want to get the best value for money, you could consider getting a 3-season tent.
Such a tent should survive heavy rains, wind, and cold so that you do not have to worry should a storm occur.
3. Ease of installation
How much time and energy will it take to set up the tent?
Well, no one wants to purchase a camping tent that will require you to spend some hours trying to set it up.
Still, you do not want to buy a tent that will need up to four people to set it up while you will be camping alone or with your partner. For this reason, buy a tent that will favor you in terms of easy installation.
4. Type of tent material
Also, take note of the material of the tent.
Different camping tents are made using different materials. Some tents feature a polyester, others, nylon, or canvas.
Canvas or cotton tents are waterproof.
However, should these tents absorb water, they become heavy and thus, difficult to dismantle and carry. Canvas tents are also longer-lasting while compared to nylon tents, thus an ideal option when durability is concerned.
Polyester and nylon tents are waterproof. However, sunlight could cause these tents to deteriorate with time. When purchasing a nylon tent, check the seams to ensure that they are properly sealed so that they are waterproof.
Besides the material of the tent, consider the zippers. In this case, look for camping tents with quality zippers, and such zippers should not rust or catch the fabric for effortless operation.
5. Tent’s weight
Are you purchasing a tent for backpacking? If this is the case, you must buy a camping tent with a weight that is easy to manage. Some tents tend to be too heavy, which makes it challenging to take them from the car to the camping site.
If you must get a heavy tent because you need to provide sufficient room for lots of people, ensure that you have enough people to help you carry it wherever you need it. Otherwise, get a tent with a weight that is easy to manage.
6. Ventilation
The best camping tent under $200 must integrate adequate ventilation. After all, you do not want to wake up sweaty or with damp bedding and condensation all over the tent.
Therefore, get a tent that features well-placed vents so that you can minimize condensation.
Also, a tent with doors and windows could serve as an exceptional choice when looking for a camping tent that will provide the desired ventilation.
7. Flooring
Finally, consider the flooring of the tent. A good tent must have a high-quality and durable floor so that it can withstand the traffic within it. Such flooring must protect you and your gear from moisture underneath it so that you can wake up warm, cool, and dry.
Also, you could opt to get a tent that comes with a footprint as an optional purchase. A footprint is a tarp that goes underneath the tent’s flooring to protect it from abrasion.
If the tent’s manufacturer doesn’t provide one, consider buying it from other manufacturers to protect your tent’s floor from wear and tear.
Reviews of the 10 Best Cheap Tents Under 200
For Hiking and Backpacking
1.Top Rated – Coleman Sundome Tent for Rain and Wind
Setup: 10 mins
Capacity: 2/3/4/6
Windproof Rating: 35+ mph
Materials: Polyester & Fiberglass
Any hiker will fall in love with this tent, thanks to the myriad of features it has. The unmatched reliability and durability of this tent are worth lauding at any time.
It boasts of a double-wall design and extravagant use of mesh on either side.
This design assures you of unrivaled ventilation, as the mesh allows enhanced flow and circulation of air. This airiness will effortlessly make your hiking experience the best.
It will suffice to mention how spacious this tent is, as it will effortlessly accommodate up to six people.
You will hardly doubt the durability of this beautiful tent, thanks to its thick and tarp-like material. This fabric ensures that the canvas does not become vulnerable to severe weather conditions.
The fiberglass poles used can only make things better, as they ensure that the tent is secured correctly.
What We like
- Fairly cheap
- Unrivaled durability
- Incredible protection against wind
What We Didn’t
- Few interior pockets
2. For 2 Person Backpacking – Kelty Salida Lightweight 3 Season Tent Under 200 Dollars
Capacity: 1/2/4
2P Peak Height: 43″
2P Floor Area: 30.5 sq ft
2P Vestibule Area: 20 sq ft
This tent has proven to be a reliable choice for two people. Despite the relatively affordable rate, you are confident of the best experience in the long run.
This tent boasts of ample space, which will comfortably accommodate two people. Remember that the floor area measures about 30.5 sq ft, which is big enough to accommodate a six-foot sleeping bag without necessarily touching the walls.
Further, you are confident of enough storage space. On top of that, you will get a free gear loft on which you will hang your wet gear.
This tent comes with a rainfly too which takes a distinctive dome shape, which assures you of unmatched reliability in the long run.
The materials used to make this tent are friendly and durable. Kelty Salida tent often comes with polyester walls and a nylon floor, which will give you enough comfort at all times.
What We like
- Enough ventilation
- Relatively easy to set up
- A free gear loft included
What We Didn’t
- Doesn’t have designs for large family
3. Best for 1 Person – ALPS Mountaineering Lynx Tent for Solo Backpacking
Capacity: 2
Peak Height: 36″
Base Size: 2’8″ x 7’6″
Packed Size: 6″ x 17″
Assuming you want to be alone on this trip, you will need a tent that accommodates no more than one person. That tent should be the Alps Mountaineering.
This tent assures you of a 2-pole design, allowing you to enjoy convenience when setting it up.
You will also be sure of a reliable vestibule, which is vital for those that want extra storage. It will suffice to mention that this vestibule prides itself on incredible weather protection abilities.
On top of that, you will be sure of a gear loft and enough mesh storage pockets. Did you know that it will ensure you enjoy unrivaled ventilation too?
The eight zippers assure you of enhanced protection at all times. Besides, they are relatively durable and sturdy.
What We like
- The fly is UV-resistant
- Enough weather protection
- Enough air circulation and ventilation
What We Didn’t
- Only for single person
4. Ultralight – Moon Lence Portable Tent with Roomy Interior
Season: 3
Capacity: 1-2
Weight: 2.35 kg
Peak Height: 47.2″
Base Size: 86.6″ x 51.1″
This tent has proven to be one of the lightest options you could ever have.
It weighs no more than 5.2 pounds, which means you will comfortably carry it around. Besides, it takes a relatively short time to pack it in a packing bag.
That this tent is roomy is no secret. You will be sure of floor dimensions of 86.6 x 55.1 inches. Further to this, there will be a center height of approximately 120 inches, which is quite sizable.
While at it, you will appreciate the two doors on this 3-season tent.
Let’s talk about the material used to make this tent. Usually, the inner part features 190T woven fabrics and B3 mesh.
The fabric is waterproof, which means that you will need not to worry about severe weather anymore.
It will suffice to mention that this construction exposes you to enough ventilation at the end of the day.
What We like
- Comes with two doors, for easier access
- Suitable for family and outdoor traveling
- Less vulnerable to water and weather issues
What We Didn’t
- Limited capacity
For Camping
1. Extra Storage – ALPS Mountaineering Lynx Tent with 2 Doors and 2 Vestibules
Capacity: 4
Peak Height: 52″
Base Size: 7’6 x 8’6
Total Weight: 8 lbs 10 oz
The Alps Mountaineering Lynx is a dome shape tent, which has come out as the best for four persons. It comes with two doors, plenty of space, and full vestibules.
Usually, it weighs about 8 pounds, which could be relatively light for some people.
The double-wall design it comes with is worth lauding. Ideally, you will be sure of a separate tent body and rainfly. With a double-wall, you are assured of limited condensation in the long run.
As mentioned, this product boasts of enough sleeping space, as it comfortably accommodates up to four people at a go. While three is more comfortable for you, if there is any child in the midst, four will be fine.
It comes with Lynx 2 poles, which are of backpacking standards. That implies that they are relatively sturdy and durable.
What We like
- Enough space for four
- You can get an extra footprint
- Double-wall, and enhanced durability
- Comes with 2 aluminum poles for stability
What We Didn’t
- Packed size is 6″ x 23″
2. Easy Setup – OT QOMOTOP 6 Person Pop up Cabin Tent for Tall Person
Capacity: 6
Peak Height: 60″
Base Size: 10 x 9
Total Weight: 19lbs
A must-have family camping tent is the OT QOMOTOP Instant Cabin Tent. It comes in a package that comprises an inner tent and frame, gear loft, carry bag, rainfly, peg bag, and nine tent stakes.
The tent features double-layer windows with zippers for efficient ventilation. Also, it integrates a power port. The port provides access to the electrical cord so that you can keep your devices charged, with an option to close it when it is not in use.
This tent is easy to install. It has telescopic poles that allow you to install it in less than a minute. The telescoping design of the poles allows for compact storage, given the ability to fold them and fit them into a carrying bag.
Moreover, this tent features a spacious interior. It measures 10′ x 9′ with a 5’9″ center height to accommodate up to 6 individuals. Better still, this space is sufficient for a queen-size airbed and other camping gear.
Another advantage of the tent is its storage pockets. Using them, you can organize small items fast and efficiently. Plus, there is a lantern hanger that provides room to hang your camping lamp.
This camping tent can keep you cool and comfortable through different kinds of weather. It features three D-shaped windows plus a door for sufficient ventilation. Also, the tent has a mesh roof and ground vent that provide room for adjusting the inside temperatures.
What We like
- Superb ventilation
- Spacious interior
- Easy to install
What We Didn’t
- Some people may don’t like the zipper door it has
3. Dark Room – Coleman Spacious Dome Tent for 3 Person Camping
Capacity: 4/6
Weight: 22 pounds
6P Base Size: 10′ x 9′
6P Peak Height: 5’8″
6P Lounging Area: 10′ x 5′
That this dome tent comes with excellent screen rooms is no secret. It is for this reason that you will want not to overlook it if you are a fan of screen rooms.
You can hardly ignore the robust construction that this product highlights. Its bathtub comes with a fabric that is not only thick but also tarp-like. With this, you are sure of enough comfort and warmth at all times.
Further, its body comes with mesh, and that does not mean that it looks fragile. It will suffice to mention that this construction can withstand winds of up to 35 mph.
The product weighs about 22 pounds, which is relatively heavy. It measures 10 x 9 feet, which gives you around 90 square feet area. Further to this, you will be sure of a 5-foot 8-inch center height.
Besides the screen room, you will be sure of enhanced privacy. That is because a room divider could come in handy for you whenever you so feel.
What We like
- Great levels of privacy
- Incredible screen room
- Unmatched spaciousness
- Weatherproof and waterproof
What We Didn’t
- Doesn’t have a lantern inside it
For Family
1. For Large Family Camping – Core 9 Person Dome Tent with Lantern Hook
Capacity: 9
Base Size: 16′ x 9′
Peak Height: 72″
Materials: Polyester & Fiberglass
Undoubtedly, you will always need a larger tent whenever you travel with your friends and family. This option will be all that you need, as its spaciousness will readily get you smitten.
Its weather resistance abilities are out of this world. Thanks to its extended dome, there will be no reason to worry about water seeping in.
Besides, both the floor and rainfly seams are heat-sealed. You will witness that this rainfly is removable.
The mesh ceiling panels are worth lauding. With this mesh, it means that you will have the room to enjoy the sight of the night’s sky, thanks to the transparency.
As you keep gazing at the starry heavens, you will still be sure of protection against pests and insects.
Its air vents are adjustable, giving you the convenience you so desire. It is through this that you get confident of enough ventilation at all times. The adjustability provides you control over the temperature in the room.
What We like
- Enough headroom
- Durable, thanks to the polyester
- Can accommodate up to 9 people
What We Didn’t
- Relatively heavy, weighing 18.25 lbs
2. Best for 6 Person – Coleman Instant Cabin Tent with Integrated Rainfly
Seasons: 4
Capacity: 4/6/10
6P Base Size: 10′ x 9′
6P Peak Height: 6′
If you are looking for the right 6-person tent, this option will be one of the most reliable ones for you.
It boasts of a dark room technology, which is liable for blocking up to 90% of sunlight. With this, sleeping past sunrise becomes no big issue for you.
With this tent, you are sure of improved visibility at night. Thanks to its reflective lines, seeing it will hardly take a moment.
While at it, you will fall in love with its roomy interior. It comes with 9×10 ft dimensions, which will effortlessly accommodate up to 2 queen-size air beds.
Nothing could be as imperative as having enough privacy when camping. That is what you get from this tent, as it features a room divider when you buy this 10 person tent.
Did you know that this tent is weatherproof? Besides the durable fabric used in its robust construction, this tent features inverted seams that offer extra weather protection.
What We like
- Instant setup
- Dark room tech
- Comes with a hinged door
- Effortlessly keeps the temperature in check
What We Didn’t
- Could be a little costly when you opt for the tent for 10 person
3. LED Light – Coleman Elite Montana 8 Person Tent for Wind Under 200
Capacity: 8
Base Size: 16′ x 7′
Peak Height: 6’2″
Materials: Polyester
Are you a fan of LED lights? Look no further than the Coleman Elite Montana, as this tent assures you of just that.
Its unfurled glory brings to you the respectable spaciousness that you so desire. This tent will comfortably accommodate up to 8 people.
Further, the shelter will accommodate around three queen-size beds.
This tent boasts of incredible standing height. With a 6 foot 2 height at your disposal, you will hardly have to bend when walking around. Indeed, this unmatched headroom is all that you might ever need.
Getting in and out of this tent has never been this easy. With the hinged door present, you will hardly struggle with opening or closing the canopy.
Further, this door features a Velcro, which is essential in fastening the tent in the long run.
This 3-season tent comes with enough LED lights, which ensure that your room remains lit at all times. You will also be free to hang a personal light, too, especially if you feel the LEDs are inadequate.
What We like
- Lightweight
- Enhanced comfort
- Comes with a led lantern
- Waterproof, weatherproof, and windproof
What We Didn’t
- May require 2 people to set it up
For 4 Season
1. Best Budget – Core 6 Man Tent with Instant Setup
Capacity: 2
Base Size: 11′ x 9′
Peak Height: 72″
Packed Size: 47″ x 9.05″ x 9.05″
This option is worth considering if you are looking for a 4-season tent.
Ideally, this D-style tent will take you the least time and effort to set up. It comes with a pre-assembled steel pole system, which means that it will take no more than 60 seconds to pitch it.
You will also fall in love with the spacious cabin it has. This tent measures around 11×9 feet, which means you have up to 99 square feet of the interior floor at your disposal.
It will be fair to indicate how elegant this canvas is. Its tough polyethylene floor can readily withstand heavy foot traffic.
You will also be sure of enough ventilation, which means that you will enjoy unmatched comfort in the tent. Regardless of the temperature outside, you will draw enough air in the canvas.
Did you know that it also features a reliable and large gear loft? Here, you will comfortably store whatever gear you have.
Most importantly, there is water block technology used in constructing this tent. It ensures that no running water sneaks or seeps into the tent.
What We like
- Durable, sturdy fabric
- Extra space to store your gear
- Can withstand severe weather
- Enough headroom, as it stands at about 6 feet
What We Didn’t
- Some people may don’t like the zipper door it has
2. Double Layer – GEERTOP 4-Season Rainproof and Windproof Dome Tent for Couples
Capacity: 2
Base Size: 32 square feet
Peak Height: 45″
Weight: 6.4 lbs
If you are looking for a relatively light tent, this product will be your ultimate choice. It is a double-layer tent, providing you with enough protection against harsh weather. Usually, you will be free to remove the outer layer if you need more ventilation and comfort.
Its 220T polyester fiber plays a critical role in protecting you against adverse weather too. It is not only water-resistant but also UV-resistant. The floor is seam-taped, cushioning you against adverse wetness.
This product comes with 2 doors and 2 vestibules. With this, it will be much easier to attain breathability and comfortable entry and exit. These vestibules will protect you against elements of rainfall too.
Did you know that it comes with a relatively light duffle bag? That means it will be relatively easy for you to carry it around, thanks to how lightweight it is.
This bag will comfortably take the tent and all the necessary accessories, assuring you of convenience. What is more, it is waterproof and with a watertight buckle close.
What We like
- Durable layer
- 2 Doors and vestibules
- Can withstand severe weather
- Strong fabric
What We Didn’t
- The tent size is small
3. Backpacking Design – Forceatt Ultralight Camping Tent with Double Vestibules & Doors for All Weathers
Capacity: 2
Base Size: 8′ x 5′
Peak Height: 43″
Weight: 5.5 lbs
If you are looking for a reliable tent to accommodate a small number of people, this is the ultimate choice. It is a multipurpose option, assuring you of flexibility and versatility.
From its design to construction, you will gladly appreciate investing in this tent. It is compact and ultralight, making it suitable for hiking and backpacking.
This product prides itself on incredible heat resistance and waterproof and windproof abilities. Thanks to the welded floor design, this tent is relatively raised in a way that protects you against wet grounds.
The aluminum pole comes in handy in boosting the windproof abilities. Its full-coverage rainfly comes in handy in cushioning the tent against rain.
You will also appreciate the ventilation in this tent. It boasts of a large mesh door and two windows. Indeed, nothing could provide better airflow than this aspect. As if that is not enough, you will enjoy better levels of comfort and breathability, thanks to its micro-mesh fabric.
The design of this tent is worth appreciating. It is not only light but also able to fit in a backpack. It comes with a lock function that ensures you adequately secure your tent from outside.
You can hardly ignore how affordable this product is, as it costs you less than $100. If you are on a budget, this will be a suitable choice for you.
What We like
- Weather resistance
- Good ventilation
- Backpacking design
What We Didn’t
- Footprint not included
Is It Worth To Buy a Backpacking Tent Under $200?
There is hardly a one-dimensional answer to this, as it depends on the product you choose. However, in most cases, the right choice will assure you of comfort, durability, and value for money.
Spending below $200 for a tent will still get you one that is worth the money. Although the tent might lack some extra features for luxurious camping, it will still meet your basics for outdoor camping.
It makes sense to buy a less expensive tent if you will not be camping more often. Generally, keep your expectations at a reasonable level, that is, below $200 for a basic and functional tent.
As long as you choose a tent with excellent stability and unrivaled comfort, you will have no reason to regret it. For this reason, buying a tent for less than $200 is a good idea. The only catch is the quality you pick. Prioritize the best!
Conclusion
There can never be a better time for you to buy a tent. While the selection process of finding the best tent under $200 is relatively daunting, you should not give up even before trying.
The insights provided above are all that you need in this pursuit, as they highlight which options are best and how to determine which one is right for you.
Get one today!
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