7 Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars 2023 | Best Cheap Tents

Camping tents are essential for anyone who wants to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature. A camping tent provides a private and secure space for you and your companions to sleep, relax, and store your belongings. 

 A tent is a portable shelter that can be set up almost anywhere, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.

Camping tents are available at various prices, making them a cost-effective way to enjoy the outdoors. They are used for multiple trips, eliminating the need for more expensive accommodations, such as hotels or cabins.

Choosing an economical and budget friendly camping tent is a difficult task. You must choose wisely a good size, quality, and durability tent.

When finding a tent under $50, with careful research, it’s still possible to find one that meets your needs and budget. This article will discuss some budget friendly and good quality camping tents and their features. It will help you to choose your camping tent for under 50 $ for your next camping trip.

Comparison of Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars

Following is a quick summary of the Best Tent Under $50.

In-depth Analysis of Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars 2023

Finding a high quality camping tent under $50 can be challenging, as most tents in this price range are designed for occasional use. However, some good choices are still available that can provide essential protection from the elements and make camping more comfortable.

Here, we listed some best tents under 50$ and their features. This article will help you to choose the best tent according to your needs.

Following is an in-depth analysis of the best camping tent under 50 dollars:

1. Best Overall Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars: Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent is an outstanding camping tent for two people that is affordable and reliable. It is designed for fair weather conditions and is made from durable materials that withstand moderate wind and rain. 

The tent features a dome shape with a 4-foot centre height, which offers ample headroom and interior space for two campers.

Material:

The tent is made from durable material, polyester, that resists water. It also features welded floors, inverted seams to keep water out, and a rainfly to provide extra protection in wet weather.

Size:

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent dimensions are 6.22 x 6.14 x 23.89 inches. It provides ample space for two people.

Weight:

The tent weighs approximately 7 pounds. It is lightweight and easy to transport.

Setup Time:

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent is easy to set up, with snag-free, continuous pole sleeves and a patented pin-and-ring system, for easy tent attachment to the poles. It requires only 10 minutes to set up. It can withstand winds up to 35 mph. 

What I Don’t Like:

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent is an excellent and spacious tent for two people, but the material quality needs more improvement. The fabric is not sturdy and durable.

Final verdict:

The Coleman Sundome 2-Person Tent is a reliable and affordable tent for camping trips with one other person. It is easy to set up and provides sufficient protection and storage options.

Pros:

• Affordable and spacious, ideal for budget-conscious campers.
• Convenient lantern attachment and side pockets.
• Innovative wiring access for solar panel use.
• Resilient in 17 mph gusts.

Cons:

• Consider stronger tent stakes for added security.
• Tends to bow in strong winds; pitch in sheltered areas for best results.

Read our full review of Coleman Sundome Tent here!

2. Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars for Backpacking: Wenzel Current 2-Person Tent                     

The Wenzel Current 2-Person Tent is a perfect choice as it can accommodate two people comfortably. It’s a lightweight, waterproof, and compact camping tent. 

It is made of high-quality and durable material. It is an excellent choice for backpackers and hikers at an affordable price.

Material:

The Wenzel Current 2-Person Tents shell is durable, weather-resistant polyester. Its floor is made from welded polyethylene that is strong and waterproof. The tent features shock-corded fibreglass poles and large mesh windows for ample ventilation.

Size:

The tent’s dimensions are 16 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches; Its centre height is 36 inches. It provides enough room for two people.

Weight:

The Wenzel Current 2-Person Tent weighs approximately 3.4 pounds. The lightweight design of the tent allows for easy portability for backpackers who need to carry all their gear on their backs. 

Setup Time:

The tent’s simple design makes setting up and taking it down easy. It comes with shock-corded fibreglass poles and a colour-coded setup system to make assembly quick and easy.

What I Don’t Like:

The tent is very lightweight and stylish, but the water-resistant capability is less than expensive tents and may not hold up as well in heavy rain or wind.

Final verdict:

The Wenzel Current 2-Person Tent is a good option for those on a budget or looking for a basic camping shelter. It is an excellent 2-person camping tent for occasional or short camping trips.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight; easy to carry.
• Crafted in the USA with excellent quality and construction.
• Complete waterproofing, including sealed seams.
• Quick and effortless setup.

Cons:

• Ventilation may require leaving the door open, but bug netting can be closed.
• Slightly challenging to enter and exit.

3. Best Easy to Use Camping Tent Under 50: Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent        

The Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent is a durable and affordable camping tent for two people. The tent is a superb choice for a comfortable and convenient shelter with its large mesh roof vents, interior storage pockets, and easy setup process for camping trips. 

Material:

The Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent is made from a durable polyester material with a polyurethane coating. The tent’s floor is made from reinforced polyethylene material, which helps to keep the tent’s floor dry. The tent’s poles are made of fibreglass, making the tent easy to set up and transport.

Size:

The tent measures 3.94 inches in length, 3.94 inches in width, and 22.83 inches in height, with a peak height of 38 inches. It has a 28 square feet floor area. The tent can be used for two people comfortably.

Weight:

The tent weighs approximately 3.5 pounds. It is the perfect choice for backpackers because it is lightweight and compact.

Setup Time:

The Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent is easy to set up, with an estimated setup time of 15-20 minutes for one person. The tent features shock-corded fiberglass poles that are lightweight and easy to handle.

What I Don’t Like:

The Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent is a durable and sturdy tent, but it may be cramped for two people and too small with larger camping gear, and the zippers can be stiff.

Final verdict:

The Mountain Trails Cedar Brook 2-Person Tent is an excellent option for an easy-to-use, durable, and affordable camping shelter. It is ultra-lightweight and easy to transport, making it convenient and the best choice for backpackers. 

Pros:

• Features 2 windows and a roof vent for ventilation and comfort.
• Lightweight at 3 lbs 6 oz, making it ideal for hikers who value portability.
• Waterproof when seams are sealed and coated, allowing camping in rainy conditions.
• Versatile design with zip-closable windows for warmth in cold weather.
• “Front porch” flap for a comfortable space to sit outside without mosquitoes.

Cons:

• The tent size is small. It is not suitable for 2 persons.

 4: Best Camping Tent for 2 Person Under $50:Ubon

The Ubon Camping Tent is a lightweight, budget-friendly tent for camping lovers. The tent is easy to set up and features a waterproof coating to keep moisture out and a built-in floor to prevent insects from entering.

Material:

The Ubon camping tent is made from a durable and waterproof 190T polyester material that provides good protection from rain and wind. The tent’s poles are made from fiberglass. The tent’s built-in floor is also made from a 210D Oxford groundsheet that helps to keep moisture out. 

Size:

Its dimensions are 78.7 x 59 x 43.3 inches. It fits two adults comfortably.

Weight:

The Ubon camping tent weighs approximately 4 pounds, making it easy to carry and transport, even for kids.

Setup Time:

The tent features a simple two-pole design with shock-corded fiberglass poles allowing a simple assembly process. Setting up in a few minutes is much easier than conventional tents. No need to connect rods, no rips, and no hassle. Opening up is easy, but it may take longer for those not used to putting back pop-up tents.

What I Don’t Like:

The Ubon camping tent has many great features, but its materials are less durable than other, more expensive camping tents, and it does not hold up well in extreme weather conditions like rain, etc. 

Final verdict:

The Ubon Camping Tent for Kids is a lightweight and portable tent explicitly designed for children but can be used by adults, also. Its size and weight make it an excellent option for families who want an affordable and easy-to-use camping shelter for their children.

Pros:

• Quick and easy setup, taking around 10 seconds or less, making it ideal for setting up in the dark or tight spaces.
• Accommodates 2-3 people comfortably, including different body sizes.
• Spacious for changing clothes, despite not allowing standing.
• Versatile for use within larger tents, providing privacy and extra warmth.
• Useful for maintaining separation within a family, a valuable feature during times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Adequate ventilation with the option to seal for warmth.
• Interior features a hook/strap for hanging an inflatable solar light and two pockets for small items.

Cons:

• Less durable materials compared to pricier alternatives, potentially affecting long-term use.
• Limited ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, particularly heavy rain or inclement weather.

 5: Best Budget camping Tent Under 50 : ALPHA CAMP Dome Backpacking Tent

The ALPHA CAMP Dome Backpacking Tent is perfect for small families who want a reliable and affordable camping tent.

This tent is designed for backpacking and camping and features a lightweight and durable construction that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The tent can comfortably accommodate a couple with one kid. 

Material:

The tent is made from a durable, waterproof 190T polyester fabric and features strong and lightweight fiberglass poles that withstand strong winds and other harsh weather conditions.

Size:

The ALPHA CAMP has a floor area of approximately 7 feet by 6 feet. The tent also has a maximum height of about 42 inches, providing plenty of headroom for taller campers.

Weight:

The tent weighs approximately 7 pounds. It’s heavy but easy to carry and transport for car campers.

Setup Time:

The ALPHA CAMP Dome Backpacking Tent is lightweight and easy to set up. The tent features a simple two-pole design with shock-corded fiberglass poles allowing quick and easy assembly.

What I Don’t Like:

The ALPHA CAMP Dome Backpacking Tent is lightweight and spacious but needs to be more durable. The tent’s zipper is rugged, and its fabric can tear after some time.

Final verdict:

The ALPHA CAMP Dome Backpacking Tent is an excellent option for small families who want a reliable and affordable camping tent. Its durable construction, spacious interior, and convenient features make it an ideal choice for backpacking and camping trips.

Pros:

• The color discrepancy, receiving an orange tent instead of red, was not a significant issue for the user.
• Assembly is straightforward, with long poles sliding into tent sleeves and plastic clips for pole attachment.
• The tent includes a rainfly that performs well in light rain.
• Adequate room for a person who is nearly 6 feet tall, with space for gear.
• Effective ventilation that prevents condensation issues.

Cons:

• Difficulties securing the tent to the ground due to the design of the metal rod area.
• Inadequate rain protection in certain areas, such as near the window zipper bases and the lower seam, leading to puddles during light rain.

6: Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollar: KITADIN            

The KITADIN Beach Tent is a budget-friendly choice for those who want a lightweight and easy-to-use shelter for their next beach outing.

This tent is designed to provide shade and protection from the sun, wind, and other outdoor elements and is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Material:

The tent is made from fine silver-coated polyester fabric with a UV rating of 50+ (UPF 50+). It is durable and waterproof material.

Size:

The KITADIN Beach Tent size dimensions are 70.87″ L x 57.09″ W x 51.18″ H. It is spacious and comfortable for 2 to 3 people

Weight:

The tent weighs only a few pounds, making it easy to carry and transport to and from the beach. It weighs only 2.6 pounds.

Setup Time:

The tent is also designed to be lightweight and easy to set up. The tent features a simple pop-up design that allows for a quick and easy assembly process and can typically be set up in just a few minutes.

What I Don’t Like:

The KITADIN Beach Tentis great but can’t fold up easily for packing in a carrying bag, and it’s complicated and tricky.

Final verdict:

The KITADIN Beach Tent is an excellent option for those who want a budget-friendly and easy-to-use shelter for their next beach outing. It also features sand pockets and stakes for added stability in windy conditions and a convenient carrying bag for transport and storage. 

Pros:

• Excellent tent quality with effective sun protection.
• The window screen layer offers excellent breathability while keeping the wind from making it too chilly.
• Automatic and easy-to-open setup for convenience.
• Attractive aesthetics, described as “particularly beautiful.”
• The tent’s assembly is quick, taking only three seconds, making it very convenient.
• A reasonable, simple, and high-end design that exudes a sense of luxury.
• The user expresses high satisfaction overall and believes it’s worth the purchase.

Cons:

• Difficulty in folding and packing the KITADIN Beach Tent into its carrying bag.
• Assembly described as complicated and tricky, potentially posing challenges for users.

7: Best 3 Person Camping Tent Under 50: STONCEL Automatic pop upTent          

The STONCEL Automatic Tent-3 is a tent designed for 3-4 people and suitable for all four seasons. It features an automatic pop-up design. The tent is lightweight, waterproof, and provides good sun protection. The tent has a dome shape, which offers ample headroom and space for movement inside the tent.

Material:

The tent is made of high-quality thick oxford cloth (190T PU material), which is waterproof and provides good sun protection.

Size:

The tent is designed for 3-4 people and measures 82.67 x 82.67 x 55.11 inches dimensions when set up. It provides easy entry and exits with a double-door design.

Weight:

The STONCEL Automatic pop-up Tent-3 weighs approximately 10 pounds( 4.47 kg). It is a lightweight tent and easy to carry.

Setup Time:

Due to its automatic pop-up design, the tent is set up quickly and easily in a few minutes. Unpack the tent, throw it into the air, and it will automatically pop up and be ready to use.

What I Don’t Like:

The STONCEL Automatic Tent-3 is a stylish and spacious tent, but it is not durable and can’t withstand harsh weather conditions. The poles may bend or break if the tent is not carefully set up and taken down.

Final verdict:

The STONCEL Automatic Tent-3 is a camping tent with many positive features that make it a good choice for those who value easy setup, lightweight design, and all-season use. Its automatic pop-up design and multiple ventilation options make it a convenient and practical choice for camping.

Pros

• Easy installation of the umbrella stand for quick and simple setup.
• Features a four-sided mesh design with high transparency and density, effectively blocking mosquitoes.
• Includes an internal storage bag to keep items safe and maintain the cleanliness of the tent.
• Equipped with a two-way zipper for convenient and practical operation.
• Wind rope with adjustable slide for quicker and more convenient tightness adjustment.
• Highlighted as the best choice for camping.
• Offers customer support for any inquiries or assistance, demonstrating a commitment to service.

Cons:

• Lack of durability, making the STONCEL Automatic Tent-3 unable to withstand harsh weather conditions.
• The tent’s poles are susceptible to bending or breaking if not set up and taken down with care, indicating potential fragility in its construction.

The Buying Guide for Best Camping Tent Under $50

If you plan to buy a budget backpacking tent, keeping some factors in mind is essential to ensure you make the right purchase. We discussed a more detailed buying guide in this article to help you make an informed decision. By considering these factors, you should be able to find the best budget backpacking tent that meets your requirements and fits your budget.

Materials and Durability

Backpacking tents are often exposed to harsh conditions like rain, wind, and rough terrain. Therefore, the materials used to make the tent should be durable and withstand wear and tear. Choose a tent with a sturdy, lightweight frame and durable fabrics like ripstop nylon or polyester.

Weight

The tent’s weight is another crucial factor, especially if you carry it in a backpack. A lightweight tent is ideal for backpacking as it will not weigh you down. However, be cautious not to sacrifice durability and protection for lightness.

Capacity and size

 It’s essential to consider the number of people using the tent and choose a size accordingly. Also, consider the interior space required to store gear and for comfortable sleep. A two-person tent may be enough for two people, but consider a giant tent if you have bulky equipment or want more space.

Seasonality

Backpacking tents are designed for different seasons. Ensure the tent is rated for the season you plan to use it. A 3-season tent is ideal for mild weather and can handle a light rain, wind, and occasional snow. A 4-season tent is built to withstand extreme weather, such as snow, wind, and rain. However, a 4-season tent is generally heavier and bulkier than a 3-season tent.

Design of tent

The design of a tent affects its functionality and ease of use. Dome tents are the most common design and offer good headroom and internal space. A-frame tents are lighter and easy to set up but have less headroom. Tunnel tents are more aerodynamic and work well in windy conditions but have less headroom.

Usage frequency

The frequency you use your tent depends on your camping habits and preferences. Some people go camping once or twice a year, while others go frequently camping throughout the year. If you enjoy camping and plan to use your tent often, it’s worth investing in a durable, high-quality tent.

 A well-built tent can last many years and provide countless camping adventures with proper care and maintenance.

Some Additional Tips to Buy Best Camping Tent Under 50 Dollars

Buying a quality camping tent is difficult, especially if you are on a tight budget. But with careful research and planning, you can find a quality tent that fits your needs and budget. Before buying a tent, follow these general tips to help you to choose a suitable tent within your budget.

Waterproof rating

 Your tent must keep you dry in the rain. Look for a tent with a waterproof rating of at least 1000mm, preferably 2000mm or higher.

Durability

A backpacking tent must be durable enough to withstand the frequent wear and tear of being packed and unpacked. Choose a tent with a sturdy frame and strong, durable fabric. Tents with high-quality materials like ripstop nylon or polyester will be more durable than cheaper materials.

Flooring

The flooring of a tent is an essential component that protects from moisture, dirt, and insects. Look for a tent with a durable and waterproof bathtub-style floor, and consider using a footprint to protect the foot against punctures and abrasion.

Ease of setup

Consider a tent that is easy to set up and take down. You want to avoid struggling with complicated poles and instructions when tired after a long day of hiking. Always choose a tent with a simple and quick setup that saves energy and time.

Good ventilation

 A well-ventilated tent will help to prevent condensation inside the tent. Look for tents with mesh windows and vents that allow air to circulate freely. It will help keep the interior of the tent dry and comfortable.

Zippers and Poles

Choosing a tent with high-quality zippers and poles is essential, as these components can significantly impact the tent’s performance and durability. 

Choosing a tent with high-quality zippers that operate smoothly and don’t get stuck or break easily is essential. Also, Poles provide structure and stability. Look for tents with sturdy, lightweight poles that are easy to set up and tear down. 

By selecting a tent with solid and reliable zippers and poles, you can enjoy a more comfortable and secure camping experience.

Price

When buying a backpacking tent, it’s essential to consider the price. A good quality tent can be expensive, but many budget-friendly options offer good quality and value for money. Always do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. Determine your budget and compare the prices of different tents to find a high-quality tent that meets your needs.

Final Thoughts: Best Camping Tents Under $50

While it may be challenging to find a high-quality camping tent under $50, it is still possible to find a decent option that meets your basic camping requirements. Remember that you may need to choose the best tent regarding weight, durability, and weather resistance.

 A budget-friendly camping tent may offer only some of the features and amenities of a more expensive option, but it can still be a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. We discuss some of the best camping tents for under 50$. The best brands of tents in this price range include popular choices like Coleman and Wenzel. This article will help you to choose the best tent for your next camping trip according to your needs.