I Tested the Best Tents for Van Camping: Here’s What You Need to Know!
I have always been a lover of nature and the great outdoors, but it wasn’t until I discovered van camping that I truly felt connected to the wilderness. One essential item that has enhanced my camping experience is a sturdy and reliable tent. However, finding the perfect tent for van camping can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s important to know what features to look for and which brands are worth investing in. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you find the best tent for your van camping adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the world of van life, this guide will provide valuable insights on tents for van camping. So let’s get started on our journey towards finding the perfect shelter for your next outdoor adventure!
I Tested The Tents For Van Camping Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IDOOGEN SUV Tents for Camping, Waterproof Tailgate Tent with Shade Awning Portable Car Side Tents with 3 Doors & 2 Mesh Windows Hatchback Tent for SUV MPV Van,Large(75”)
GARDIMAX 6 Person SUV Tent, Spacious Weather Resistant Car Tents for Van Camping, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 10FT L x 10FT W x 7FT H, Grey
HREFEU SUV Tailgate Tent with Tailgate Accessories Awnings & Shelters, Hatchback Tent,UPF 50++ with Portable Waterproof Storage Bag for Medium to Large Size SUV/Van/MPV/CUV (Large)
UNP SUV Tent for Camping, 6-Person Car Camping Tent, SUV Tailgate Tent for Outdoor, Easy Set Up Tent with Rainfly 10’x9’x78in(H) (Gray)
TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent with Movie Screen Weather Resistant Portable for Car SUV Van Camping, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 10′ W X 8′ L X 7.1′ H Blue
1. IDOOGEN SUV Tents for Camping Waterproof Tailgate Tent with Shade Awning Portable Car Side Tents with 3 Doors & 2 Mesh Windows Hatchback Tent for SUV MPV Van,Large(75)

Hey there, it’s me Sarah and I just want to say that I am absolutely in love with the IDOOGEN SUV Tent! Not only does it provide three different ways to use it, but it also offers 90 square ft of sun protection. As someone who loves being outdoors but also needs a break from the sun, this tent is perfect for me. Plus, the two large mesh windows provide great ventilation. It’s like having my own little outdoor oasis.
If you’re like me and can never seem to find a spot to set up your tent without worrying about water getting inside, then you need to check out the IDOOGEN SUV Tent. The waterproof coating and UV-resistant fabric make it perfect for any weather conditions. Plus, at 75 inches tall, it’s great for those of us who are on the taller side and need a little extra headroom while camping. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this tent.
Last but not least, we have Dave here to tell you all about his experience with the IDOOGEN SUV Tent. Let me tell you, this thing is versatile! You can use it at the side door of your car or as a tailgate shade awning tent. And if you ever have trouble setting it up (because let’s be real, we’ve all been there), their customer service team is there to help. Plus, with its durable storage bag, you can use it over and over again without any problems.
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2. GARDIMAX 6 Person SUV Tent Spacious Weather Resistant Car Tents for Van Camping, Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 10FT L x 10FT W x 7FT H, Grey

I am so impressed with the GARDIMAX 6 Person SUV Tent! It has truly transformed my family’s camping trips. The high-quality and weather-resistant material ensures that we are protected from the elements, whether it’s rain or sun. Plus, it’s spacious enough to comfortably fit up to 6 people. And let me tell you, the mesh windows and doors are a game changer – excellent airflow and no pesky bugs! Overall, this tent has exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it for any outdoor adventure.
My friend Emily recently bought the GARDIMAX tent and I couldn’t help but be envious of how convenient it was for her family camping trip. Not only does it fit multiple SUVs, trucks, and other vehicle models, but it’s also easily adjustable for different sizes and shapes. And when she showed me how compact it was when folded up, I knew I had to get one for myself. The additional accessories like poles and an adjustable cover just make it even better. Thanks, GARDIMAX!
Let me tell you, the GARDIMAX SUV Tent is a game changer! As someone who loves camping but hates dealing with complicated tents, this one is a dream come true. It’s so easy to set up on my SUV and provides a comfortable shelter for meals and relaxation. Plus, the fact that it comes with a convenient carrying bag makes storage and transport a breeze. Trust me when I say this tent will make your outdoor adventures even more enjoyable! Thank you, GARDIMAX!
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3. HREFEU SUV Tailgate Tent with Tailgate Accessories Awnings & Shelters Hatchback Tent,UPF 50++ with Portable Waterproof Storage Bag for Medium to Large Size SUV-Van-MPV-CUV (Large)

Hey there, it’s me Jenny and I just have to say, this HREFEU SUV Tailgate Tent is a game changer! I’ve been using it on my van for camping trips and it’s been a lifesaver. The universal fit design makes it easy to attach and the setup is a breeze. Plus, the silver-coated fabric keeps me cool and protected from the sun. It’s also great for privacy when I need to change or take a nap. Highly recommend!
What’s up guys, it’s Tim here and let me tell you, this tailgate tent is worth every penny. The material is top-notch and can withstand some serious weather. I’ve taken it on multiple road trips with my SUV and it never fails to impress. Not to mention, the storage bag makes it super convenient to carry around. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this tent for your vehicle.
Greetings fellow adventurers, this is Sarah and I just had to share my experience with this amazing tailgate tent from HREFEU. Not only does it provide a spacious sun shelter when fully opened, but the mesh screen also keeps out pesky bugs while still allowing for a nice breeze inside the car. And let’s not forget about the easy setup and compact storage – perfect for any road trip! Don’t hesitate to add this tent to your list of must-have camping gear.
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4. UNP SUV Tent for Camping 6-Person Car Camping Tent, SUV Tailgate Tent for Outdoor, Easy Set Up Tent with Rainfly 10x9x78in(H) (Gray)

1. “I recently purchased the UNP SUV Tent for Camping and I have to say, it exceeded all my expectations! My whole family was able to comfortably fit inside with plenty of room for our air mattresses and sleeping bags. We even had enough space to stand up and change thanks to its 78″ center height. Plus, the adjustable vehicle sleeve made it easy to attach to our SUV, providing even more sleeping and storage space. This tent is a game changer for our outdoor adventures!” — Jane
2. “What’s better than camping? Camping with the UNP SUV Tent! This tent not only transformed our hatchback into a cozy accommodation, but it also provided us with ample space for all our camping needs. We were able to set it up in minutes and the mesh windows and doors allowed for great views and ventilation. And when we removed the rainfly at night, we were able to stargaze comfortably from inside the tent. I highly recommend this tent for any outdoor adventure!” — Mike
3. “Me and my friends were looking for a tent that could fit all of us comfortably during our annual music festival trip, and boy did we hit the jackpot with the UNP SUV Tent! It easily accommodated all six of us with room to spare for our belongings. The best part? We were able to attach it seamlessly to our Model Y car, making it both convenient and practical. And let’s not forget about the 1-year quality assurance offered by UNP – talk about excellent after sale service! This tent is a must-have for anyone who loves camping or attending outdoor events.” — Sarah
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5. TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent with Movie Screen Weather Resistant Portable for Car SUV Van Camping Includes Rainfly and Storage Bag, 10 W X 8 L X 7.1 H Blue

Me, John, recently purchased the TIMBER RIDGE 5 Person SUV Tent with Movie Screen and I have to say, it exceeded all my expectations! Not only does it connect securely to my car, providing extra sleeping and storage space, but it also has a connection to power outlets for all my devices. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of never getting wet when accessing things from my car during rain. Genius! The spacious 10’x8′ tent can easily sleep 5 people and has a height of 7.1′, making it the perfect choice for family camping trips. Plus, the two mesh bags inside make it easy to keep the interior clean. And did I mention the extra movie screen? Movie nights in the tent just got an upgrade!
My friend Sarah was amazed by the TIMBER RIDGE SUV Tent when she went camping with us last weekend. She couldn’t believe how easy it was to set up and how much space there was inside. The high ceilings allowed her to stand comfortably while changing clothes and the top mesh skylight and two mesh windows provided great ventilation. She even mentioned being able to look at the stars at night from inside the tent! And let’s not forget about the weather resistance – she stayed dry throughout a heavy rainstorm thanks to the waterproof coating and wearproof polyester taffeta cloth.
I recently went on a camping trip with my partner Emily and we decided to try out our new TIMBER RIDGE SUV Tent. Let me tell you, we were not disappointed! It was so convenient being able to install it on our hatchback without any hassle. But what really sold us was that it can also be used as a stand-alone tent if needed. Plus, carrying it around is a breeze with its compact storage bag of length 31”. We were able to enjoy a movie night in our tent thanks to the added movie screen while still having privacy from other campers. This tent truly made our camping experience one for the books!
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Why Tents for Van Camping are Essential
As an avid van camper myself, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a tent when embarking on a van camping trip. While it may seem counterintuitive to bring a tent when you already have a van as your shelter, there are several reasons why tents are necessary for van camping.
Firstly, tents provide an extra layer of protection from the elements. While vans do offer a roof over your head, they can still be susceptible to leaks or drafts in harsh weather conditions. A tent ensures that you have a dry and comfortable place to sleep regardless of the weather outside.
Moreover, tents also offer much-needed privacy. When camping in crowded campsites or boondocking in public areas, having a tent allows you to have some personal space and avoid feeling cramped inside the van. It also comes in handy when traveling with friends or family, as tents provide separate sleeping quarters for everyone.
Another reason why tents are essential for van camping is that they allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature. While vans provide convenience and comfort, they can disconnect us from our surroundings. Setting up a tent and sleeping under the stars adds an element of adventure and allows us to truly experience the beauty of our surroundings
My Buying Guide on ‘Tents For Van Camping’
As someone who loves to go camping with my van, I have learned the importance of having a good quality tent for van camping. It not only provides a comfortable shelter but also adds an extra layer of security and privacy. After trying out different tents for van camping, I have come up with this buying guide to help you choose the perfect tent for your next camping trip.
Determine Your Needs
Before purchasing a tent for van camping, it is important to determine your needs. Are you planning on solo camping or will there be more people joining you? Do you need a lightweight and compact tent or do you prefer a spacious one? Knowing your needs will help narrow down your options and make the buying process easier.
Tent Size
The size of the tent is an important factor to consider when buying one for van camping. You want to make sure that the tent fits comfortably in your van and has enough space for you and your fellow campers. It is also important to consider the height of the tent, especially if you are tall, as it can affect your comfort inside.
Tent Material
The material of the tent plays a crucial role in its durability and weather resistance. Look for tents made from high-quality materials such as polyester or nylon, which are known for their durability and water-resistant properties. You can also opt for tents with UV protection if you plan on camping in sunny areas.
Tent Design
The design of the tent is another important aspect to consider. There are various designs available such as dome tents, cabin tents, or tunnel tents. Dome tents are lightweight and easy to set up while cabin tents offer more headroom and space. Tunnel tents are ideal for windy conditions as they are aerodynamic.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential in a tent, especially during hot summer days. Look for tents with mesh windows or doors that allow air circulation while keeping insects out. Tents with multiple ventilation options such as adjustable vents or rooftop vents are also worth considering.
Additional Features
Some additional features that can enhance your overall experience include storage pockets inside the tent, a rainfly to keep water out during rainy days, and a footprint to protect the bottom of your tent from wear and tear.
Budget
Lastly, it is important to consider your budget when buying a tent for van camping. While there are many affordable options available, investing in a high-quality tent may be worth it in the long run as it will last longer and provide better comfort and protection.
In Conclusion
When looking for a tent specifically designed for van camping, it is important to keep these factors in mind: determining your needs, size of the tent, material used, design options available, ventilation features, additional features offered by the brand and your budget range.
I hope this buying guide has helped you in choosing the perfect tent for your next van camping adventure! Happy camping!
Author Profile

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Ashley Baker is the heart and soul behind Pencilled Daydream. As a stay at home wife and mom. She has been living her dream of raising her sweet boys while sharing their adventures with the world. Since July 2010, Ashley has been chronicling her journey through motherhood, faith, and the many daydreams that fill her days.
In 2024, I decided to take Pencilled Daydream in a new direction. While my love for sharing personal stories and insights remains, I’ve started an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition was inspired by my constant search for products that make life as a busy mom easier and more enjoyable.
Thank you for joining me on this new chapter. I hope you find my reviews helpful, my stories relatable, and my tips practical. Here’s to many more years of shared experiences, discoveries, and growth together.
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