What size tent for a family of four with kids

For a family of four, choose a tent rated for six people. The number on the label assumes everyone lies shoulder to shoulder with no bags. A larger tent gives you room for gear and a dry place to sit if it rains.

A simple rule

Take the number of people and add two. Four people, six person tent. Two adults and a baby, a four person tent is plenty. For more on the full choice, see how to choose a camping tent for your first trips.

Check these, not just the label

• Floor size. Compare the floor area, in square meters or feet, across tents.
• Height. If adults can stand or crouch easily, changing clothes is simpler.
• Rooms or dividers. A divider gives privacy and a place for sleeping kids while adults stay up.
• Porch (vestibule). A covered space outside the door for shoes and wet gear.
• Two doors. Easier at night when someone needs the toilet.

One reason to go big

Space makes bad weather bearable. A cramped tent in a storm is a hard day. A bigger tent can feel like a room.

One exception

Bigger tents are heavier, take longer to pitch and catch more wind. If you will camp in strong wind, see tent stakes for sand and loose ground and plan to stake it well. If you hike in, choose a smaller tent.

Before you buy

Set up the sleeping pads on your living room floor in the size of the tent floor. If there is no space left, size up. Read the family camping packing guide for what else has to fit.