Pop-Up Tents

What a pop-up tent is

A pop-up tent has its frame sewn or built in, so it opens almost by itself. Some are spring frames that fold to a flat disc and leap open when you let go of the strap. Others have a frame you push up at the top and lock, and press to fold down again. Either way there are no poles to thread, which is why they suit festivals, the beach and a quick night away.

Camping, beach, festival or hide: which pop-up tent

• Automatic pop-up camping tents for two to six, some double layer with a flysheet. See instant and automatic tents.
• Beach tents and sun shelters, many with UPF 50+ fabric, including small ones with a paddling pool built in for babies. See beach tents.
• Throw-open tents that fold flat, for festivals. See festival tents.
• Pop-up hides and ice fishing shelters in camouflage or blue, the ice fishing ones on steel frames. See hunting tents and hides and ice fishing tents.
• Pop-up changing and privacy tents for changing and showering. See changing tents.

Shade or shelter: is it made for rain?

This is the question to ask of every pop-up tent. Many in this range are beach shelters made for sun, with an open front and a UV rating, good in a light shower and not meant for a night of rain. The camping pop-ups are different: look for a double layer, a flysheet or rainfly, and a stated waterproof rating. The 4-6 person pop-up here comes in a single-layer version and a double-layer version with a lobby, and that difference is the one that matters on a wet night.

Folding it back down

A spring-frame pop-up folds back into a flat disc with a twist that takes practice, so try it at home before the festival. The push-up kind folds down like a large umbrella. Either way, pegs and guy lines still go in: a pop-up tent is light and the wind will take it.

Questions people ask about pop-up tents

Are pop-up tents waterproof?

Some are made for rain and some only for shade. Check each one for a flysheet and a rating.

Do I need to peg a pop-up tent?

Yes, every time, and on the beach too. A pop-up tent is light for its size, so a gust under the door can lift it. See tent pegs and guy lines.

Which pop-up tents are best for babies on the beach?

The small beach tents with UPF 50+ fabric give shade, and two have a shallow pool built into the floor. They give shade, not supervision.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when that tent usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.

More to look at

• Instant and automatic tents
• Festival tents
• Beach tents
• Pop-up shelters
• Sun shelters
• 3-man tents
• Guide: Air tents or pole tents
• Guide: The festival tent guide