What Tents by Size is for
This department sorts every tent by the number of people it sleeps, so you can start from the size you need and then choose the style. The number on a tent's label is the number of sleeping mats that fit side by side on the floor, with nothing else inside. It leaves no room for bags, boots or a cool box, which is why the usual advice is to buy one size up from the number of people who will sleep in it.
The sizes in this department
- 1-man tents hold one person, a mat and a sleeping bag, with the rucksack in the porch. The lightest weigh about 0.8kg. See 1-man tents.
- 2-man tents are the most popular size: two people close together, or one with room to spread out. See 2-man tents.
- 3-man tents sleep three, or two with their bags inside, which is why many couples choose them. See 3-man tents.
- 4-man tents take four adults for a night or two, or a couple and two children. See 4-man tents.
- 5-man and 6-man tents are the family sizes, many with a living area and separate bedrooms. See 5-man tents and 6-man tents.
- 8-man and larger tents are for big families and groups, and the heaviest tents in the shop. See 8-man tents and 10-man and larger tents.
- Family tents gathers every tent for four or more in one place, with bedrooms, a living area and room to stand. See family tents.
How to choose between the sizes
Start with who is sleeping in it and for how long. For a night or two, the size on the label is enough if everyone is happy close together. For a week, with children, or with a lot of kit, go one size up, and tall adults may want two. Then think about how the tent travels. A tent carried on your back wants the smallest size that fits; a tent that goes in the car can be bigger. The biggest tents need two or more people to pitch and a pitch big enough for their guy lines all round.
Size first, then style and features
Many tents sit in more than one range: a 4-man tent is also in its style range, such as dome, tunnel, pop-up or inflatable, and in the feature ranges for its fabric, poles and waterproof rating. So once you know the size, Tents by Style and Shop by Feature narrow it down.
Questions people ask about tent sizes
What size tent do two people need?
A 2-man tent sleeps two side by side, with bags in the porch. Two adults who want room inside, or who are tall, will be more comfortable in a 3-man tent.
What size tent does a family of four need?
A 5-man or 6-man tent. A 4-man tent will sleep four, but leaves no room for bags or for sitting inside when it rains.
Why is one tent listed in two sizes?
Some makers sell a tent as "2-3 person" or "4-6 person", and it is filed in every size it covers. Read the floor size on the product page and judge it against your own mats.
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.
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