Summer camping season is almost here. The right tent decides whether the trip is about the campsite or about wrestling with poles in the dark. This guide covers the few decisions that matter most for families.
1. Size up, not down
Tent capacity is how many adults fit lying side by side, with no room left for bags. A practical rule is to add two to the number of people sleeping. A family of four is comfortable in a 6-person tent. If you'll spend rainy afternoons inside, choose one with enough height to sit up or stand.
For bigger families, the Mountview Large Family Camping Tent sleeps 6 to 8 people across two bedrooms and a living area. It stands 195cm tall at its peak and measures 520cm long, so most adults can stand up inside.
2. Pop-up or pole tent?
Pop-up (instant) tents open in minutes and suit short trips, festivals and late arrivals where setup speed matters. Traditional pole tents take longer to pitch but usually give more floor space and separate rooms for bigger families.
The Mountview Instant Pop Up Tent sleeps 3 to 4 people, or seats 5 to 8, and has an entry awning for shade. It comes with a waterproof ground mat, pegs and guy ropes. If the kids want to help pitch, a pole tent is a good camp activity. If you arrive at dusk with tired passengers, a pop-up saves a lot of patience.
3. Check the waterproof rating
Look for the fly's rating in millimetres, for example PU3000mm. Higher numbers handle heavier rain. A floor that wraps up the sides keeps water out at ground level. Whatever the rating, close all flaps and zips before the rain arrives, and keep the awning over the entrance.
4. Ventilation matters in an Australian summer
Mesh windows, roll-up doors and vents keep air moving and reduce condensation overnight. Mesh panels also help keep insects out while the air flows through.
5. Think about pack size
Car campers can take a bigger, heavier tent. If you'll carry it any distance from the car, check the packed dimensions before you buy. The family tent packs into a 70cm long carry bag, while the pop-up folds into a 70 x 40 x 40cm bag.
6. Complete the setup
A good tent is only half of a comfortable trip. A few extras make a big difference:
- An air mattress to get off hard, uneven ground.
- Guy line tensioners to keep the tent taut when the wind picks up.
- A headlamp for hands-free light after dark, and camping string lights for the campsite.
- A folding camp chair for everyone around the fire.
Before your first trip
Pitch the tent once in the backyard so everyone knows how it goes up. Pack spare pegs and a mallet. Always make sure the tent is completely dry before it goes back in the bag, so it's ready for the next trip.