Where Can I Buy Camping Tents? Top Retailers, Prices & Expert Tips

If you’re wondering, “Where can I buy camping tents?” you have many options! From big box stores to specialty outdoor retailers, both online and in person, finding the right tent requires considering your budget, needs, and preferred shopping experience. This guide will walk you through the best camping tent retailers, help you understand pricing, and give you expert tips for choosing the perfect tent for your next adventure. We’ll explore best camping tent stores, how to buy tents online, and help you find camping gear shops including information on tent sales near me.

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Fathoming Your Tent Needs

Before diving into where to buy, it’s important to know what you need. Different types of camping require different tents.

• Backpacking: Lightweight and compact are key.
• Car Camping: Weight is less of a concern, focus on comfort and space.
• Family Camping: Look for large tents with multiple rooms.
• Winter Camping: Requires a sturdy, four-season tent.

Consider these factors:

• Capacity: How many people will be sleeping in the tent?
• Seasonality: Will you be camping in warm weather, cold weather, or both?
• Features: Do you need a rainfly, a vestibule, or extra storage pockets?
• Budget: How much are you willing to spend?

Top Camping Tent Retailers: Online Options

Buying tents online offers convenience and a wide selection. Here are some of the top online outdoor equipment suppliers:

Amazon

• Pros: Huge selection, competitive prices, customer reviews.
• Cons: Quality can vary, sometimes difficult to verify seller reputation.
• Price Range: From affordable camping tents under \$50 to high-end models exceeding \$1000.
• Brands: Offers a huge selection of top-rated tent brands as well as lesser-known brands.
• Tip: Carefully read reviews and check seller ratings before purchasing.

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)

• Pros: High-quality tents, expert advice, excellent return policy.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than other retailers.
• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end, typically \$200-\$800.
• Brands: REI Co-op, Big Agnes, MSR, Nemo.
• Tip: Become an REI member for discounts and dividends.

Backcountry.com

• Pros: Wide selection of high-end brands, frequent sales.
• Cons: Can be overwhelming with options.
• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end, \$250+.
• Brands: Big Agnes, Marmot, The North Face, Black Diamond.
• Tip: Sign up for their email list to receive notifications about discount camping tents.

Moosejaw

• Pros: Quirky website, good selection, rewards program.
• Cons: Limited selection compared to Amazon.
• Price Range: Mid-range, \$150+.
• Brands: Big Agnes, Marmot, Kelty.
• Tip: Join their rewards program for free gear and discounts.

Walmart

• Pros: Affordable, convenient.
• Cons: Lower quality.
• Price Range: Low end, \$40+
• Brands: Ozark Trail, Coleman.
• Tip: Great if you need a basic tent quickly and are on a tight budget.

Top Camping Tent Retailers: Brick-and-Mortar Stores

Visiting physical stores allows you to see and touch the tents before you buy. Here are some great camping gear shops:

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)

• Pros: Knowledgeable staff, tent displays, gear demos.
• Cons: Limited store locations.
• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.
• Brands: REI Co-op, Big Agnes, MSR, Nemo.
• Tip: Attend in-store workshops to learn about tent setup and maintenance.

Academy Sports + Outdoors

• Pros: Good selection, competitive prices, convenient locations.
• Cons: Less specialized than outdoor retailers.
• Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
• Brands: Magellan Outdoors, Coleman, Columbia.
• Tip: Check their weekly ads for tent sales near me.

Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s

• Pros: Huge selection, immersive shopping experience, expert advice.
• Cons: Can be overwhelming, prices can be higher than online retailers.
• Price Range: Mid-range to high-end.
• Brands: Ascend, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, The North Face, Coleman.
• Tip: Sign up for their rewards program for discounts and exclusive offers.

Dick’s Sporting Goods

• Pros: Convenient locations, decent selection, competitive prices.
• Cons: Less specialized than outdoor retailers.
• Price Range: Affordable to mid-range.
• Brands: Field & Stream, Coleman, Quest.
• Tip: Look for seasonal sales and clearance events.

Local Outdoor Shops

• Pros: Personalized service, expert advice, support local businesses.
• Cons: May have a limited selection.
• Price Range: Varies depending on the store and brand.
• Brands: Often carries a curated selection of top-rated tent brands and local brands.
• Tip: Ask for recommendations based on your specific needs and camping style.

Comparing Prices: How Much Should You Spend?

The price of a camping tent varies greatly depending on its size, features, and brand. Here’s a general guideline:

Tent Type	Price Range
Backpacking Tent	\$150 – \$600+
Car Camping Tent	\$100 – \$500+
Family Tent	\$200 – \$1000+
Four-Season Tent	\$300 – \$1000+
Inflatable Tent	\$500 – \$2000+

Consider these factors when determining your budget:

• Frequency of Use: If you camp frequently, invest in a higher-quality tent.
• Durability: A more durable tent will last longer and withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Features: Extra features like a rainfly, vestibule, and storage pockets will add to the cost.
• Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have a higher price tag, but they also tend to offer better quality and customer support.

Top-Rated Tent Brands: What to Look For

Choosing the right brand can make a big difference in the quality and performance of your tent. Here are some top-rated tent brands to consider:

• Big Agnes: Known for their lightweight backpacking tents and innovative features.
• MSR (Mountain Safety Research): Renowned for their durable and reliable four-season tents.
• Nemo: Offers a wide range of tents with innovative designs and high-quality materials.
• REI Co-op: A great option for quality tents at a reasonable price.
• The North Face: A trusted brand for outdoor gear, including durable and weather-resistant tents.
• Coleman: A classic brand that offers affordable and reliable tents for car camping.
• Marmot: Known for high-quality tents with a focus on performance and durability.
• Kelty: A good option for budget-friendly tents that still offer decent quality.

Securing Affordable Camping Tents

Finding discount camping tents is possible with a little research and planning. Here are some tips:

• Shop during off-season: Prices are typically lower in the fall and winter.
• Look for sales and clearance events: Retailers often offer discounts on tent camping equipment at the end of the season.
• Check online coupon codes: Search for promo codes before making a purchase.
• Consider buying used: Check online marketplaces or consignment shops for used tents in good condition.
• Sign up for email lists: Retailers often send exclusive discounts to their subscribers.
• Compare prices: Use price comparison websites to find the best deals.

Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Tent

• Read reviews: See what other campers have to say about the tent’s performance and durability.
• Consider the weight: If you’re backpacking, choose a lightweight tent.
• Check the waterproof rating: Look for a tent with a waterproof rating of at least 1500mm.
• Set up the tent before your trip: Practice setting up the tent at home to avoid surprises at the campsite.
• Consider the ventilation: Good ventilation will help prevent condensation inside the tent.
• Think about storage: Choose a tent with enough storage pockets for your gear.
• Consider the tent’s footprint: Make sure the tent will fit on your chosen campsite.

Maintaining Your Tent: Extending Its Lifespan

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your tent. Here are some tips:

• Clean the tent after each use: Remove dirt, leaves, and debris.
• Dry the tent completely before storing it: This will prevent mold and mildew.
• Store the tent in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a damp basement.
• Use a tent footprint: This will protect the bottom of the tent from abrasion.
• Repair any tears or holes: Use a tent repair kit to fix small damages.
• Re-waterproof the tent as needed: Use a tent sealant to restore the waterproof coating.

Camping Tent Retailers: A Summary Table

Retailer	Type	Pros	Cons	Price Range	Brands
Amazon	Online	Huge selection, competitive prices	Quality can vary, seller reputation unclear	\$50 – \$1000+	Varies widely
REI	Online/Store	High-quality, expert advice, excellent return policy	More expensive, limited store locations	\$200 – \$800	REI Co-op, Big Agnes, MSR, Nemo
Backcountry.com	Online	Wide selection of high-end brands, frequent sales	Overwhelming options	\$250+	Big Agnes, Marmot, The North Face, Black Diamond
Moosejaw	Online	Good selection, rewards program	Limited selection	\$150+	Big Agnes, Marmot, Kelty
Walmart	Online/Store	Affordable, convenient	Lower quality	\$40+	Ozark Trail, Coleman
Academy Sports	Online/Store	Good selection, competitive prices, convenient locations	Less specialized than outdoor retailers	Affordable to Mid-range	Magellan Outdoors, Coleman, Columbia
Bass Pro/Cabela’s	Online/Store	Huge selection, immersive experience, expert advice	Overwhelming, higher prices	Mid-range to High-end	Ascend, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, The North Face, Coleman
Dick’s Sporting Goods	Online/Store	Convenient locations, decent selection, competitive prices	Less specialized than outdoor retailers	Affordable to Mid-range	Field & Stream, Coleman, Quest

FAQ About Buying Camping Tents

• What size tent should I buy? Consider the number of people who will be sleeping in the tent, plus extra space for gear. A good rule of thumb is to add one person to the capacity (e.g., buy a 3-person tent for 2 people).
• What is a good waterproof rating for a tent? Look for a tent with a waterproof rating of at least 1500mm for the rainfly and 3000mm for the floor.
• How do I set up a tent? Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Practice setting up the tent at home before your trip.
• How do I clean a tent? Use a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach.
• How do I store a tent? Dry the tent completely before storing it in a cool, dry place.
• Can I use a tent in the winter? Yes, but you will need a four-season tent that is designed to withstand cold temperatures and heavy snow.
• Where can I find used camping tents? Check online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, or visit consignment shops.
• What is a tent footprint? A tent footprint is a piece of fabric that goes under the tent to protect it from abrasion and moisture.
• How do I repair a tent? Use a tent repair kit to fix small tears or holes. For larger repairs, consider taking the tent to a professional.
• How do I choose between a dome tent and a cabin tent? Dome tents are generally lighter and more aerodynamic, while cabin tents offer more headroom and living space.

Finding the perfect camping tent can seem daunting, but by understanding your needs, researching camping tent retailers, and considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently choose the right tent for your next outdoor adventure. Happy camping!