At Taunton Leisure, we understand the need for dependable, well-designed gear that can stand up to unpredictable UK weather while offering the comfort and practicality your family deserves. Finding the perfect family tent is about more than just capacity – though, of course, that is an important consideration. It’s about layout, weather resistance, ease of pitching and how well it suits your camping lifestyle. Over the years, our team has tested and reviewed a huge number of tents from the industry’s most trusted names.
Family Tent Brands We Stock
At Taunton Leisure, we only work with brands we trust and that we’ve tested ourselves in real conditions.
- Vango: Known for their AirBeam inflatable poles, which make setup incredibly straightforward – ideal for families who want to pitch quickly and reliably.
- Outwell: These are incredibly innovative tents, especially when it comes to blackout bedrooms, flexible living spaces and packing solutions.
- Robens: For those who prefer a more rugged, high-performing tent, these are excellent for adventurous families who value gear that’s built to last.
- Snow Peak: A Japanese brand known for exceptional materials, minimalist design and long-lasting performance.
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FAQs About Family Tents
What size family tent do I need?
Choosing the right tent depends on the number of people camping and how you camp. For short trips or smaller families, a 3-to-4-person tent is often just right. For longer stays or larger groups, a larger 5-to-6-person tent with multiple sleeping zones and generous living space is better. It’s always best to size up – gear, food, and wet-weather kit take up room fast.
Are inflatable family tents easy to use?
Yes, inflatable family tents are designed to be easy to put up. Instead of poles, they use air-filled beams that can be pumped up in minutes – brilliant for quick getaways or solo pitching. Many large camping tents now feature this technology, making them easier to handle despite their size. Brands like Vango and Outwell have some great designs for durable and dependable inflatable tents.
Are family tents suitable for all seasons?
Most family camping tents are built for three-season use – perfect for spring, summer and autumn. They’re not intended for extreme winter use or snow loads unless specified. If you’re planning colder-weather trips, look for four-season designs which feature sturdier structures and fabrics as well as improved insulation.
Should I buy a poled or inflatable family tent?
Traditional poled tents can be lighter and sometimes offer a more rigid structure, though they take longer to pitch. Inflatable family camping tents are quicker to set up and easier for solo campers or parents juggling children. If you move sites frequently or just want minimal fuss, an inflatable tent is hard to beat. That said, poled designs still appeal to experienced campers who want the best in structural stability.
How weather-proof do large camping tents need to be in the UK?
Given the UK’s ever-changeable weather, a tent must offer solid weather protection. Look for models with a high hydrostatic head (3,000mm or more), taped seams and storm flaps. Wind resistance is also key, especially on coastal or exposed sites, meaning secure guylines are a must.
What key features should I look for in a family camping tent?
There’s a few key factors to consider. You’ll first need to ensure that the tent is suited to the type of camping and the location you’re headed to. Some of the key things to search for include:
Waterproof Ratings and Weather Resistance: The UK’s weather is nothing if not changeable. That’s why a solid hydrostatic head rating is a must. Most of our large camping tents feature ratings from 3,000mm and up – more than enough to keep your family dry during sustained downpours. Look for sealed seams and bathtub-style groundsheets, especially if you’ll be pitching in areas prone to wet ground or persistent rainy days.
Multi-Room Layouts and Blackout Bedrooms: Multiple sleeping compartments can create much-needed privacy between parents and children. Blackout bedroom fabric is another bonus, especially for helping little ones sleep through bright mornings or long summer evenings.
Ventilation and Condensation Control: A common pitfall in family camping is waking up to a damp tent interior caused by condensation. The best tents manage airflow carefully. Mesh doors, high and low vents, and breathable inner fabrics all work to reduce moisture build-up.
Compact Packing Size for Transport: Even the best large family tent can be a challenge to transport if it doesn’t pack down compactly. Consider inflatable models, which often pack down more efficiently than poled alternatives.