Buying a low-cost tent can be challenging since you have to consider your budget with the form, weight, and size that you need. So, the biggest concern is: Are cheap tents bad? How good are cheap tents?
Some low-cost tents are of good quality and worth picking up. Many come with core functions, including waterproof seams and coatings, stakes, guylines, vents, and meshed walls. They may cost between $50 and $100.
However, because quality varies considerably, it is critical to look around first.
Let’s scroll down for the ultimate tips!
How Much Is A Budget Tent?
Tents prices vary in type, size, and material. Here are the costs of the cheapest tent available based on the tent type:
- Trail tent: $20 to $30.
- Two-people tent: about $20 to $30.
- Three-people tent: about $40 to $60.
- Winter tent: around $100.
- Family or group tent: $120 to $160.
- Tent combo: around $160.
The cheapest option is the school-up trail tent, which costs about $20 to $30. This tent is easy to set up. It is, therefore, ideal for kids to camp in the backyard.
Backpacking tents are usually cost-saving since they are lightweight.
You can buy a full camping combo at the lowest price of $160. The set includes a tent, sleeping bags, pillows, sleeping pads, chairs, and an LED lantern.
Are Cheap Tents Bad?
A cheaper tent is surely lower in quality compared to a more expensive tent. However, cheaper tents are not all bad. Let’s check their materials, construction, and longevity to affirm their quality.
Materials
Materials greatly influence the quality of a tent. Expensive tents often come with excellent materials. Canvas tents are good examples.
Most budget tents are constructed of nylon, polyethylene, or polyester. These materials are lightweight and waterproof.
Many polyester and nylon tents have an extra PU (polyurethane) layer, which adheres to the tent fabric’s surface. The coating will form a watertight seal.
Tents with the extra layer are less expensive and more breathable than silicone ones.
The material for inexpensive tents is not as bad as you think. It is sturdy enough to protect your shelter from the rain. Of course, there shouldn’t be any hostile weather.
Construction
The tent construction determines how well the internal frame and tent cover contact to secure your shelter.
Depending on the type of tent you choose, the construction may vary.
We can’t generalize the quality of the frame of all cheap tents. Some models are fragile and unstable, especially in uneven terrain. However, there are still robust structures.
Some affordable tents include firm poles for campers to build a durable internal frame. The material of the tent poles and angle kits decide the tent construction.
Longevity
Many factors contribute to the tent’s longevity, such as the frequency of use and the campsite’s condition. Since we are talking the tents with lower prices, mentioning the materials is a must.
If the tent fabric is sturdy, your tent can last longer for sure. Cheaper tents, which come with average material, may have a shorter lifespan than an expensive tent.
However, they are cost-effective. You can replace a new one whenever your current tent starts to fade and suffers from wear and tear.
When Do You Need A Cheap Tent?
An expensive tent may be better in terms of quality. Nevertheless, it would be best to consider other factors before choosing the tent for your trip.
There are some cases where a cheaper tent is ideal.
You rarely camp
If you are not a frequent camper, you don’t need to buy an expensive tent just to camp once in a while.
In this case, search for an affordable tent. As aforementioned, cheaper tents are not all bad. They can bring you an interesting camp as well.
The weather and terrain are fine
Campers need a robust tent to secure themselves from harsh weather conditions. If your campsite and weather are nice on your camping day, a cheap tent would be optimal.
You know the good deal
Good tents may come at a low price. To make such a thing happen, you can hunt for a good deal.
Campers who want to replace their tent will sell their old one at a reasonable price. Alternatively, some retailers often offer promotions for their products. Grab that chance to own a good quality tent.
You want to lighten your pack
Expensive tents, such as canvas tents, are often heavy and bulky.
On the other hand, cheap tents tend to be more lightweight. If you are a backpacker, these options are perfect.
The tents are also foldable and easy to set up. As a result, you can save a lot of time and effort when including them in your adventure.
How To Buy A Tent With An Affordable Price?
The reasons for buying a cheaper tent are clear. If you are in those cases, don’t hesitate to pick one for your tent.
We will share some tips to get a tent with a reasonable price as follows:
Second-hand tents
Seasoned campers always seek new challenges and experiences. Once they get used to their current tents, they want to look for a new one. You may come across the tent resell on the internet sometimes because of that reason.
Remember to check the tent carefully. It’s fine if you notice some fixable flaws.
Sales
Tents with promoted deals are ideal. They may come from official manufacturers. Don’t miss this chance.
Renting
If you rarely camp and don’t have much experience with choosing a high-quality tent, you can rent it.
Camping, glamping, hiking, and canvas tents are all popular options. Daily rates range from $25 to $75.
You can rent a two-person vehicle camping tent for $29 to $55 a day.
Marmot tents range in price from $37 to $105 a day if you rent.
Aside from saving your budget, renting a tent also brings some other benefits:
- The two most significant obstacles to going outside are a lack of equipment and experience. Don’t worry! Rental tents come in packages, offering you everything you may need for your camping trip.
- You can experiment with several styles and brands to determine whether you will commit to a long-term relationship.
- Outdoor gear now has never been more technologically advanced or of higher quality. The rental companies will provide you a chance to experience the new technology.
- Tent rentals come in various sizes and designs, ranging from a modest 2-person shelter for a sleepover to specialist bivouac-style solitary tents.
- Using a tent rental may make your vacation planning a lot easier. If you want to go backpacking, you may hire the gear you’ll need for a well-planned adventure.
DIY tents
DIY tents are a great idea if you want to cut down your camping cost. You can gather all the necessary materials to design and build your own good-quality tent.
Why do you need expensive tents when you can make one?
How Much Should You Spend On A Tent?
In most situations, a camping tent costing from $60 to $180 will provide you with the optimal mix of quality, size, and price.
Tents, on the other hand, can cost anything from $20 to over $1,000. If you plan to go hiking, camp in winter weather, or camp in huge groups, expect to pay extra on the tent.
Here are some different types of camping and the lowest cost for each. We also share some tips to stay safe while keeping your budget at a minimum.
Car camping: $60 to $120
You certainly go car camping a few times a year in fine weather and need a tent that will endure for some seasons.
How much you should spend is dependent on how essential convenience and comfort are to you.
Weight is not a problem while car camping. You may include as much equipment as you may need for the most fantastic experience.
You’ll need a lot of room on the floor. At the very least, scale up by two individuals, such as getting a four-person tent for a two-person party.
Backpacking: $60 to $100
You’ll need a compact backpacking tent so you can carry it for miles. Forget about fancy camping tents weighing up to 20 pounds. You’ll have to come up with something simple.
If you’re buying a low-priced backpacking tent, waterproofing it before using it will save you a lot of money.
Some pop-up tents come with water-resistant material. These models are among the top picks of backpackers. The pop-up tents are lightweight to pack as well.
Long-term camping: $200 to $350
Your camping may last anything from a few days to many weeks. You’d most likely use your tent as a campsite for whatever you’re doing.
Because you’ll use the tent for an extended period, it should be more pleasant and sturdy than shelters built for shorter journeys. Dome tents may be a way to go.
Winter camping: $100 to $250
You will have to fight with the cold as well as the dampness, which may be quite terrible. Severe winds will be present often.
Investing in a 4-season or the all-season one is necessary to solve the problem. These tents are double-wall tents using ordinary nylon or polyester materials instead of nets on the inside wall.
Tent Buying Tips
Keep the following points in mind when you look for low-cost tents for your camping necessities.
Size
Weight doesn’t matter when you are car camping. You might need to invest in a larger tent if you plan on spending much time there.
While specialist camping stores generally only sell more expensive tents, they will frequently get some tents put up for visitors to examine.
Weather concern
It’s OK to pick up a random tent if you camp on a nice day. However, if the weather forecast informs you of rain or strong wind, you must prepare beforehand.
Many budget tents come with waterproof materials and even an extra layer. To ensure your tent can stay well in the rain, you may need a tarp or rain fly to cover the roof.
Construction
Remember to examine the tent poles and tent cover attached to the tent package.
A strong tent will guarantee your pleasure and enjoyment during the camping. A delicate shelter, on the other hand, may interrupt your fun time once it collapses.
The Bottom Line: Is A Cheap Tent Worth It?
Tents on the cheap can still provide good quality for you. Many types have diverse functions, which are worth your investment.
There are many options on the market. You can get a decent idea of the consistency and quality by looking at the comments.
Camping with a good tent while still saving costs is possible. Hopefully, you will have a nice trip. If you need any further information, please feel free to ask.
Thank you for reading!
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