Assembling the ultimate tent camping setup can be a challenge, especially for beginners. That’s why I put together this guide, complete with all my favorite tips, comfortable gear recommendations, and the ultimate tent camping setup packing list to get you started!
Special thanks to Slumberjack Gear, who sent me some of their camping gear to test for this post. As always, all opinions are entirely honest and my own. This post may also contain some affiliate links, which means if you buy something, my blog will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I will never recommend products or links on this blog that I have not personally used or fully endorse.
Table of Contents
“Camping” can mean a lot of different things, depending on your setup. Usually, tent camping means sleeping in a tent (duh) instead of an RV, or other vehicle.
Tent camping is also commonly called “car camping.” When I say car camping, I don’t mean sleeping inside your car – although that is a popular option for many campers. I mean camping where you can drive directly to, or very near to your campsite.
This guide covers everything you need to get started on a relaxing and enjoyable tent camping trip.
Backpacking is an entirely different kind of adventure than car camping, and requires some specialized, lightweight gear not listed here.
Interested in backpacking? Check out my Backpacking Tips for Beginners for the best beginner backpacking tips and gear suggestions.
Preparation is the name of the game when it comes to a fun and comfortable camping trip. While some essentials like firewood and bug spray can usually be purchased at the campground store, forgetting big items like your sleeping bag or tent stove can be a disaster!
Before you begin packing your camping gear, make sure to create and check a packing list with all your necessary gear, food, and personal items. This guide covers all these items in detail further on.
Your basic tent camping checklist should include:
Luckily, I’ve done the work for you and created a printable Ultimate Camping Setup packing list! Download this list to your phone or print it out and check your gear before you go.
Camping tents come in a huge variety, from 1 person ultralight tents for backpacking, to multi-room 10 person dome tents. When choosing a tent, consider questions like:
A good rule for car camping is to buy a tent that sleeps at least 1 person more than you need. For example, if 2 people will be using the tent, choose a 3 person tent.
If you plan on backpacking, consider investing in a tent that can be used for both car camping and backpacking.
If you’re looking to invest in your first camping tent, check out my favorite options:
REI Half Dome SL 2: The REI Half Dome is a favorite among car campers and thru-hikers alike. The Half Dome’s decently low price ($329 as of May 2023) makes it a great entry-level lightweight tent at a packaged weight of 4lbs 11oz. This tent is perfect for 3 seasons camping and features lots of thoughtful features, like gear pockets and extra room to spread out, or bring your furry friend.
Marmot Tungsten 2P: The Marmot Tungsten is a great tent that is affordable (almost $100 less than the REI Half Dome) and lightweight enough for backpacking, and comfortable enough for car camping. The 2P Tungsten Tent weighs 5lbs 14oz (packaged weight), making it the heaviest tent on this list, but still manageable, especially if split between 2 people.
We use an older version of Marmot 3p for our car camping adventures. Marmot’s tents are reliable, affordable, and easy to set up and take down.
REI Trailmade 2P: REI also recently launched their “Trailmade” collection, aimed at providing quality backpacking gear for beginners, including a 2 Person free-standing tent suitable for car camping and backpacking at less than $200. At a packaged weight of 5lbs and 7oz, this tent isn’t as lightweight as the Half Dome, but it is by far the cheapest reliable tent on the list.
