There are many tents available but not all are good choices for festival trips.
For a festival trip you need better-than-average ventilation (because hot days will make your tent feel like a sauna without it) and stargazing views if you want the best experiences.
I’ve discovered the top 25 cheapest festival tents and placed them all in this article, and yes, most have stargazing opportunities and maximum ventilation 🙂
The Cheapest Festival Tents of 2020
1. CORE 3 Person Dome Tent 7’x7′
The CORE 3 Person Dome Tent is part of the CORE Dome series and offers enough room to house a queen-sized air mattress.
It sleeps 3 people, offers CORES’ H20 technology (best water protection) and an adjustable ground vent.
It features an extra large gear loft which is included in the purchase, a lantern hook and interior storage pockets for extra gear organization.
The rain fly can be removed to expose the mesh ceiling and promote stargazing.
Some more features include:
- Factory sealed seams and rain-resistant doors/windows
- Zippered privacy panels on doors and windows
- Electrical access port
Item Weight – 7.1 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 7 feet
Peak Height – 3.5 feet
Packed Dimensions – 19.8 x 6.5 x 7 inches
Get yours on Amazon.com
2. SEMOO Double Layer,3-4 Person, 3-Season Lightweight Camping/Traveling Tent with Carry Bag
The SEMOO 3-4 Person tent sleeps 4 people and includes internal pockets and a vestibule area for gear storage.
The fiberglass frame keeps the tent standing in strong winds and the specialized inner tent material provides adequate ventilation all-round.
It has great wind and rain protection and can be disassembled in a matter of minutes.
It is lightweight for a 4-person tent and even has an awning for when you want to sit out of the elements!
Some more features include:
- 2-ply design for great rain protection
- Large D-style door for easy entry/exit
- Mesh roof for stargazing the clear night sky
- Large mesh panels provide outside views and cross-breeze ventilation
Item Weight – 7 pounds
Floor Size – 10.5 x 7.8 feet
Peak Height – 4.2 feet
Packed Dimensions – 25 x 6 x 6 inches
Get it now
3. ZUMIT Tent for Camping 2-3 Person Waterproof Dome Shelter
The ZUMIT house 2-3 people, designed for fast and easy pitching and can be disassembled in 6 minutes.
It’s made from a durable Oxford material which has great water protection and the mesh windows ensure good ventilation for both the day and nighttime.
It is multi-functional but works best for a festival thanks to the low price range, ample sleeping space and vestibule for storage.
Some more features include:
- Two rain fly vents which allow air to get inside even with the rain fly on
- Small interior pockets for keeping valuables safe and close
- High waterproof fabrics keep all rain out
Item Weight – 4.5 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.6 feet
Peak Height – 4 feet
Packed Dimensions – Unknown
Get your ZUMIT tent here
4. FINNKARE 3-Person 3-Season Lightweight Water Resistant Family Camping Tent
The FINNKARE accommodates a total of 3 sleepers, has a large D-door for simple access and a large rear window for cross-flow ventilation.
The windows can be opened or closed depending on the weather and climate; the rain fly can be removed on the clear nights for a full view of the night sky.
It’s fast and easy to setup/take down, which is done in a matter of minutes, and that’s with the rain fly.
Some more features include:
- Zippers and webbing contain water-repellent applications
- Hooped design and double-stitched seams add extra rain-resistance.
- A little larger than other 3-person tents
Item Weight – 5.5 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 7 feet
Peak Height – 4.3 feet
Packed Dimensions – Unknown
Get here for this tent
5. MoKo Waterproof Family Camping Tent
The MoKo Tent features a strong construction, quick assembly and disassembly and 7.9mm fiberglass poles for tackling strong winds.
The rain fly is both waterproof and sun-resistant, and can be removed to expose the full mesh ceiling.
This promotes stargazing during the night and the best cross-flow ventilation during the day.
All seams are factory sealed and an awning sits at the front and rear for extra protection in the rain.
Some more features include:
- Specially treated coating resists the rain and UV-rays
- Steep wall construction provide a more livable area
- Advanced weatherproofing techniques
- Two internal storage pockets
Item Weight – 6.8 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 6 feet
Peak Height – 4.1 feet
Packed Dimensions – 21 x 7.8 x 8.2 cm
Get your Moko Tent on Amazon
6. Le Papillon Camping Tent Light-Weight Family Dome Tent
The Le Papillon is a dome-styled tent designed for 2 people, although there’s a 3-person and 4-person option available too.
However, we’ll be talking about the 2-person tent today.
The two large doors located at the front of this tent are MASSIVE and open the tent right up.
It has ventilation windows in the ceiling for battling condensation during the night and a waterproof cover which stops rain coming in.
The bathtub floor for adds extra protection against ground moisture and rain splashes.
Some more features include:
- Two internal storage pockets
- Vertical wall system for easier living
- Very affordable price
- Water-resistant flysheet
Item Weight – 3.2 pounds
Floor Size – 6.5 x 5.9 feet
Peak Height – 3.6 feet
Packed Dimensions – 22 x 3.9 x 3.9 inches
Go here for yours
7. OlarHike 2-4 Person Tent for Camping, 4 Season Lightweight Waterproof Instant Family Backpacking Camping Tent
The OlarHike fits UP TO 2-4 people. There’s plenty of space inside this tent to make it great for festivals.
It even has enough room to fit a queen-sized air mattress if need be, and even includes the “instant” setup feature, allowing it to be pitched in 10 minutes or less with 2 people.
The rain fly stops all rain coming in from the top and sides but the bathtub floor design keeps all rain out from the bottom.
It has maximum ventilation thanks to the 4 mesh windows and 2 large doors. This tent has no problems combating condensation.
Some more features include:
- Two-way zippers
- One mesh pocket for keeping valuables safe and secure
- One-step setup function
- Roof tie for holding a lantern
Item Weight – 7.7 pounds
Floor Size – 7.2 x 5.8 feet
Peak Height – 4.4 feet
Packed Dimensions – 30 x 7 x 7 inchs
Go here for the OlarHike tent
8. Wenzel Ridgeline Tent
The Wenzel Ridgeline Tent features factory sealed rain fly and welded flooring.
The specially designed poles increase the durability, strength in the wind and an overall roomier interior.
The rain fly is coated with “Weather Armor” and stops the fly from sagging when wet or getting damaged by sun rays.
Awnings overhang the front and rear of this tent to allow the door and window to stay open during rainy weather.
Some more features include:
- Full mesh ceiling for stargazing clear nights
- Lite reflect system using a lantern or headlamp (creates an even glow of light throughout)
- Massive ceiling gear loft has lots of storage
- Built-in electrical port
Item Weight – 7.4 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 7 feet
Peak Height – Unknown
Packed Dimensions – 21 x 6.3 x 6.3 inches
Get your Wenzel Ridgline Tent here
9. Stansport Pine Creek Dome Tent
The Stansport Pine is fast and easy to set up, has interior storage pockets and even door tie-backs for keeping the entry clear for easy thoroughfare.
The front awning allows the door to be open in the rain, the back offers extra rain protection and the large D-door makes getting in and out a breeze.
It is visually appealing and comes at a cheap price range, helping it make my list.
Some more features include:
- Dome-styled structure for good wind-resistance
- Extra large/heightened D-door offers easy thoroughfare
- Bathtub floor to resist ground mositure
Item Weight – 6.9 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 8 feet
Peak Height – 4.5 feet
Packed Dimensions – 21.5 x 6 x 6 inches
Get yours here
10. Wenzel Alpine 3 Person Tent
The 3-person tent from Wenzel features a 3-pole pentadome design with a removable rain fly.
The shock-corded fiberglass poles ensures it’s strong and easy to setup every time.
The large door creates quick and easy access and the mud mat keeps all dirt and sand out, and even has a drainage strip for further protection.
There are 2 large windows for ventilation and views, and an awning for keeping the door open in the rain.
Some more features include:
- Closeable mesh windows
- Gear loft and hanging storage pocket
- Large sleeping area
- Unique design and shape
Item Weight – 7.7 pounds
Floor Size – 8.5 x 8 feet
Peak Height – 4 feet
Packed Dimensions – 25.2 x 6.8 x 6.2 inches
Get your tent here
11. Coleman Sundome 2 Person Tent
The Coleman Sundome 2 is part of the Sundome series and has 2 color options.
The dome structure and steep walls making moving around and sitting up a breeze without feeling squished, and sets up in only 10 minutes.
It features the WeatherTec system, welded floors and inverted seams for good protection in the rain.
The bathtub floor stops water seeping through ground seams and the 2 windows and door promote cross-flow ventilation.
Some more features include:
- Ground vent provides even more ventilation
- Quick setup due to the continuous pole sleeves
- Multiple sizes available
- Storage pockets sewn into the walls for quick and easy access to valuables
Item Weight – 6.3 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 5 feet
Peak Height – 4 feet
Packed Dimensions – 5.5 x 21 inches
Get here for the Coleman Sundome 2
12. Sportneer Camping Tent 3-4 Person Automatic Instant Pop Up Waterproof Camping Hiking Travel Beach Tents For Family Groups
There’s no need to fumble around with different poles with the Sportneer.
It pitches in a few minutes with one person, has good waterproof abilities thanks to the coated polyester and a bathtub floor for protection against ground moisture.
It features 2 large D-doors for maximum convenience and mesh windows for the best cross-flow ventilation during the day.
The detachable rain fly can be pitched WITHOUT the tent, creating an additional shelter for your festival trip.
Some more features include:
- Mesh screen on both doors and windows for protection against mosquitoes
- High quality polyester means moisture stays out and heat stays in
- Bathtub floor keeps groundwater out
- Two storage pockets for keeping valuables safe
- Ceiling hook for hanging a hand lantern
Item Weight – 8 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 6.6 inches
Peak Height – 4.6 inches
Packed Dimensions – 31.5 x 6.6 inches
Go here for yours
13. Hewolf Outdoor 1 Man Tent for Trekking/Riding/Hiking/Camping
The Hewolf only accommodates 1-person but makes a great choice for festivals.
The price and everything it offers astounds me the most.
It can handle snow fall and extremely heavy rains, which we all know, happens frequently on festival trips.
The 8.5 thickness poles keeps the tent standing in strong winds and the peak height allows even the tallest person to sit up without feeling cramped.
It is visually appealing, has a vestibule for gear storage and 2-doors to keep it cool during the day.
Some more features include:
- Rain fly vents
- Full coverage rain fly
- Interior storage pocket
Item Weight – 5 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.3 feet
Peak Height – 3.6 feet / 2.7 feet narrow end
Packed Dimensions – 16.9 x 5.9 inches
Go here for the Hewolf
14. Coleman Hooligan Tent
The Coleman Hooligan is part of the Hooligan series and includes 3 size options.
It has one pole to save on weight and has a quick setup, and even includes Colemans WeatherTec system, designed to keep you dry in harsh rainstorms.
The full mesh body promotes the absolute best wilderness views as you can watch the night sky or view surrounding areas with full panoramic views.
This also offers maximum ventilation for battling condensation and not feeling like a sauna during hot days.
Some more features include:
- Continuous pole sleeve (creates a fast and easy setup)
- Inverted seams that hide needle holes to stop rain coming in
- The full coverage rain fly offers a vestibule for gear storage
- Interior storage pocket
- Flashlight ceiling loop
Item Weight – 7 pounds
Floor Size – 8 x 6 feet
Peak Height – 4.7 feet
Packed Dimensions – 22 x 6.5 x 7 inches
Get yours now
15. Campla Camping Tent 2 Person 4 Season Backpacking Tent Waterproof Lightweight Outdoor Shelter Recreation Tent
The Campla Camping tent is made of durable anti-wear polyester, accommodates 2-4 people and withstands all 4 seasons.
Remove the rain fly and have full views of the night sky or keep the tent and covered and still receive ventilation thanks to the built-in air vents.
The full-coverage rain fly creates a vestibule for storing equipment and the small interior pockets hold valuables.
Some more features include:
- LED USB light strip – included in the purchase
- Mesh doors and mesh top (excellent ventilation)
- Inner and outer zipper system
- Rain fly vents create air flow even in the rain
Item Weight – 5.4 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.6 feet
Peak Height – 3.6 feet
Packed Dimensions – 18.5 x 6 x 6 inches
Get yours now
16. WolfWise 2 Person 3-4 Season Lightweight Backpacking Tent Waterproof Family Camping Hiking Tent
This tent also includes the LED light strand, which lights up the interior for added convenience.
The doors “rain protectors” keep you dry when entering and exiting, and the illuminated buckles allow you to see easier at nighttime.
The fabric is tear-resistant so you don’t need to worry about it ripping even from minor accidents or pitching it in the wrong place.
It features double-stitched seams, stitch taping and bathtub floor, all put together to create maximum rain-resistance.
Some more features include:
- Attached storage bag to keep smaller items safe
- Magic tape for protecting zippers
- Inside and outside zippers
- Rain fly vent for added ventilation
- 2 large doors for cross-flow ventilation
- Stargazing opportunities with mesh roof
Item Weight – 5.07 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.6 feet
Peak Height – 3.6 feet
Packed Dimensions – 21 x 6.7 x 6.7 inches
Get your WolfWise tent here
17. Night Cat Backpack Car Camping Tent Automatic Tent Instant Self Pop Up Tent Double Layers Waterproof
The Night Cat has 2-3 person and 3-4 person sizes but I’ll be talking about the 2-3 today.
It features a one-step setup system and is so easy even a child can set it up quickly, literally.
It is one tent but has 2 uses, with the detachable rain fly comes additional shelter when you want to sit out of the rain and sun.
The double-door system promotes cross-flow ventilation and easier entry/exit when camping with others.
It is coated with advanced waterproofing and is so well made there is no holes for rain water to get inside.
Some more features include:
- Mesh windows for ventilation while keeping bugs out
- Hydraulic mechanism keeps it easy to setup and take down, all with one step
- Advanced UV-ray protection
- One tent with 2 uses
- Indoor pockets for smaller items
- Double-sided zippers
Item Weight – 7.7 pounds
Floor Size – 6.5 x 5.9 feet
Peak Height – 3.4 feet
Packed Dimensions – Unknown
Get yours on Amazon.com
18. Instant Automatic Pop Up Backpacking Camping Hiking 2 Man Tent
This instant automatic popup tent has fairly deserved its name as it definitely pitches in 2 seconds and folds down in 5.
The one-step construction design allows this to happen, making it super easy to use even in the dark.
It features two-way zippers for ease of use, a bathtub floor for extra protection at the bottom of the tent and a super simple but effective design.
Important: This tent does not come with a rain fly; one needs to be purchased separately otherwise a tarp can be used instead.
Some more features include:
- Back screened window for ventilation and keeping bugs out
- Unique automatic pole system
- Bright color design helps see the tent at nighttime
Item Weight – 4 pounds
Floor Size – 6.5 x 4 feet
Peak Height – 3.5 feet
Packed Dimensions – 35 x 4 inches
Get yours now
19. YUEBO 2 Person Dome Tent, Lightweight Camping Tent Waterproof
The YUEBO Dome tent is super easy to pitch, contains 8.5mm diameter poles for durability and metal stakes for strong protection in the wind.
A large D-door is located at the front and a mesh window at the back for cross-breeze ventilation.
The door also has mesh material; good for when you want air but no mosquitoes.
There is even mesh on the ceiling for stargazing clear night skies.
Some more features include:
- Two internal storage pockets
- Quick and easy setup system
- Bathtub floor for protection against ground moisture
- Ceiling lantern hook
Item Weight – 6.5 pounds
Floor Size – 6.6 x 5 feet
Peak Height – 4 feet
Packed Dimensions – 6.7 x 6.7 x 24 inches
Get it now
20. Stansport McKinley Camping Dome Tent, 3-Person
The Stansport accommodates 3 people and has 2 large doors for maximum convenience.
This keeps it breezy during the day and easy entry/exit for midnight pit stops.
The large windows add even more ventilation and battle condensation buildup.
Waterproofing consists of a fully taped rain fly, dome structure and bathtub floor.
The shockcorded poles make setting up and taking down a breeze.
Some more features include:
- Steep wall construction for easy living
- 2-peak roof offers great rain-resistance
- Polyethylene-coated rain fly
Item Weight – 8.7 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 7 feet
Peak Height – 4.5 feet
Packed Dimensions – 54 x 7 x 6.5 inches
Get here for the Stansport Mckinley
21. Trekking Pole Tent, Ultralight Backpacking Tent, 2 Person All Weather Tent
The Trekking Pole tent is a little different from the others mentioned because it has an A-frame instead of a dome and sets up differently.
It requires trekking poles to stand up otherwise any stick can be used as long as it fits correctly.
It is ONE OF the most lightest 2-person tents with the most room.
It’s so compact and easy to store away and is the biggest perk this tent has to offer.
Some more features include:
- A-frame shape
- No poles required
- Super fast and easy to set up, which is done in literally 1 minute
Item Weight – 3.2 pounds
Floor Size – 7 x 5 feet
Peak Height – 3.5 feet
Packed Dimensions – 8 x 5 x 5 inches
Get this tent here
22. Skylink Backpacking Tent 2 Waterproof Family Hiking Tent 4 Season Tent
The Skylink tent features double stitched seams and superior water-repellent applications.
There are two-way zippers on the door for best convenience and even a large D-door for letting cold air in on hot days.
Close the door and leave the mesh window open if you’re worried about mosquitoes.
There is also a mesh ceiling for stargazing the clear nights, an adjustable ground vent and internal storage pockets.
Some more features include:
- 100% waterproof
- Two ground vents for improved air circulation
- Advanced venting options which eliminate condensation build up
Item Weight – 6 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.9 feet
Peak Height – 3.9 feet
Packed Dimensions – 28 x 6 x 6
Get the Skylink now
23. Yodo Lightweight 2 Person Camping Backpacking Tent With Carry Bag
The Yodo has a massive door that opens up the entire front side of the tent.
It is lightweight and easy to setup (pitches in 5 minutes), has a vented roof to battle condensation and a large window for outside views.
The mesh roof promotes stargazing while keeping mosquitoes out.
Some more features include:
- Full screen door stops mosquitoes entering
- Sturdy buckle system
- 3 color options
- Bright colors to help find the tent at night
Item Weight – 3.3 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 4.6 feet
Peak Height – 3.6 feet
Packed Dimensions – 17 x 4.5 x 4.5
Get it from Amazon
24. Winterial 2 Person Tent, Easy Setup Lightweight Camping and Backpacking 3 Season Tent
The Winterial 2 Person Tent easily accommodates 2 people and stands close to the more expensive brands like ALPS Mountaineering and Coleman!
The rain fly includes a vent so you still receive ventilation in the rain and 2 doors which provides even more benefits in itself.
This allows the best cross-breeze during the day so it doesn’t feel like a sauna while difficult midnight pit stops will now be a thing of the past.
The bathtub floor stops rain water coming through the bottom of the tent and mesh ceiling gives the best stargazing views.
Some more features include:
- Two-layer door for best rain protection
- Compact and lightweight
- Metal tipped poles provide maximum durability
Item Weight – 5.1 pounds
Floor Size – 6.3 x 5 feet
Peak Height – 3.5
Packed Dimensions – 23 x 4 x 4 inches
Get yours here
25. WolfWise 3 Person 4 season Lightweight Backpacking Screen Tent
Not only is the WolfWise 3 visually appealing from the get go, but it is absolutely packed with bells and whistles.
It is constructed from silicone coated nylon for durability, strength and an increased lifespan.
The aviation aluminium poles create a strong structure that withstands heavy winds.
Waterproofing consists of stitched seams, taped seams, PU coating, caulking, a bathtub floor and rain fly, which has 2 adjustable venting options.
It features 2 large doors for cross-breeze and a mesh ceiling for stargazing.
Some more features include:
- Flashlight ceiling loop
- Fluorescent buckle straps
- Interior pocket for keeping smaller items safe
- Velcro zipper protector
Item Weight – 4.9 pounds
Floor Size – 6.9 x 5.9 feet
Peak Height – 4 feet
Packed Dimensions – 16.5 x 8.6 x 8.6 inches
Get the WolfWise 3-Person tent here
These are the very cheapest festival tents you will find on the world wide web.
They are high value for money and will likely last a few trips, probably more if looked after properly.
They all have good waterproof abilities, they stand strong in high winds and possess a marvelous price tag.
Well that concludes this article and I hope you’ve found what you’re looking for.
I’ve been looking for a cheap festival tent for ages. The Papillon one looks awesome. Love this post!
Thanks for stopping by Sarah. Glad you found one you like!
Wow, what a great page to find, so many tents in one place, there is something for everyone on here! As my partner and I like to go on long treks at the weekend the Trekking Ultralight Backpacking Tent seems perfect for us. I will be sharing this page with our back packing friends.
That is indeed a great tent and the fact that it requires no poles makes it the lightest 2-person tent with the most room on the market. You can either use it for 2 people or a solo tent and have lots of storage space, it is up to you. Thanks for stopping by my friend.
Wow, I’m glad i came across this website. I used to be a rough it camper years and years ago and there were never tents like these here. I still love the camping scene and campgrounds in general. I have met some of the nicest people camping. Some i am still friends with this day. I still go camping but do it RV style lol. I still know a lot of campers and will be sure to pass this website on to them all. They are always looking to upgrade their tents. Thanks for such a wonderful informative site.
All the best
Robert
I’ll be taking on RV camping in the future, probably nearer than I think to be honest, but right now I’m in love with roughing it just like you were and that’s what I plan to stick to for as long as I can. Thanks for sharing this article brother.
Hi Brandon,
I have never been camping. I have to change this. I went to a festival there a few years ago and had to leave around 2 am because I am had no tent to sleep in. Kinda killed the whole experience. Are there tents that absorb the sun at day time and then slow release that heat into the tent at night time? I think that would be a great invention, if not.
And also, are these tents really easy to set up – just unfold it and it kind snaps into place? Last thing people need is to speed two hours on how to do that haha.
Thank you for such a in depth article on the cheapest festival tents as well Brandon, I have much to ponder on, for which one I would like – I am going to go camping in a few weeks 🙂 .
~ Philip.
There’s a lot of tents that feel like a sauna during the day but that turns to cold air quickly when nighttime hits. The only invention there is are warmer tents but they are called 4-season tents and they have a pretty hefty price tag.
No tent will take 2 hours to pitch and most of the tents in this article are easy to setup, which can be done in 5-15 minutes. The ones that snap into place only take 60 seconds!
Thanks for reading and leaving a comment my friend, it really means a lot.
Like Robert Lilley, my camping days are well over. But I drool over selections like this. I had a two person tent that was probably heavier than the 4 person tents of today. And I carried two tarps and a rope. One ground tarp and one for bad weather. That one went over the rope tied between two trees. Fine until some animal used the rope as a bridge causing it to swing over my head and wack my nose!
From your selection I would have loved the OlarHike 2-4 Person Tent. When you backpack for a lengthy period, it is nice to have some personal space that is protected.
Very informative article.
Ciao
Helen
That must of been a long time ago Helen, as there are much lighter tents with better waterproofing than the one you mentioned. Technology has come such a long way!