Whether you are a nature enthusiast or you’re looking to switch things up and are in search of more of a minimalist lifestyle, long-term camping/living can be an exciting endeavor. But first comes the tricky part. What tent is the best for you?

Modern tent designs have evolved drastically over the last few years to enhance your longer voyages with more comfort, durability, insulation, and convenience. So let’s explore six suitable tents, diving into budget-friendly options, the pros and cons of each option, what type of living they are best suited for, and so much more.

Bell Tents

Bell tents have a distinct bell-shaped design with a pole in the center for support. They're made with waterproof materials, ensuring comfort and protection from the elements. Both tent options I have listed below feature cotton fire-retardant materials and have been treated with water, UV, mold, and a rot-repelling agent to help prevent mildew. These glamping tents offer spacious, customizable, and adaptable interiors, making them an excellent option for long-term camping.

1. Luna Bell Tent

The Luna Bell tent offers a unique design with its curved and near-vertical walls that offer maximum headspace. Bell tents, in general, but especially the Luna Bell tent, are a great option for someone looking to bring some modern luxuries, offering space for larger furniture or simple comforts from home. The price includes a rubber mallet, carry bag, pegs, and spare bags. This yurt-inspired tent offers a central pole in the middle for an optional chandelier or inner tent.

Pros:

• Maximized headspace
• Stove hole and flap
• Mesh doors and windows
• Vents with mesh netting
• Electrical hookup access point
• Zippable groundsheet
• Large mesh windows allow a breeze free of bugs

Cons:

• Single door
• Heavier than other tent options (35lbs)

2. Tucana Bell Tent

The Tucana Bell tent is a unique take on the Touareg design. This large tent is perfect for hosting family events or get-togethers. Added to the design is an arched overhang and webbing-strap duo that increases longevity by redirecting rain pour. When opting into the double-door rendition, you create the option to connect your tent to your camper van or VW.

Pros:

• Large interior (16x13ft)
• Stove hole and flap
• Heavy duty zippable groundsheet with lay flat groundsheet at front doors
• Electrical hookup access point
• Large integrated canopy
• Single and double door
• Four seasons friendly

Cons:

• Pricier over other tent options
• Heavier than other tents (80lbs)

Camping Tents

Traditional camping tents are a great choice that can be more budget-friendly, easily portable, and versatile to fit your individual needs. Here are a couple of great options for tent living!

3. Black Diamond HiLight Tent

This Black Diamond HiLight tent is perfect for campers looking to spend extended periods in some more remote locations. The new "Flow Manifold" allows interior heat convection and exterior airflow to draw out moisture and prevent condensation. Being a four-season tent, you can plan trips year-round. The high tenacity 30D poly fabric keeps the tent tight, making this a good choice if you're looking for weather resistance capability.

Pros:

• Most recommended four-season tents (2023)
• Most recommended Black Diamond tent (2023)
• Lightweight tent (4.75lbs)
• Spacious floor plan with second-side access
• Three-person design
• Fully taped seams improve waterproofing

Cons:

• Ground cloth is sold separately
• Not ideal for large groups/families

4. Eureka! Copper Canyon Tent

The Eureka Copper Canyon is ideal for families with its easy setup and full standing height. This tent features a steel fiberglass frame with pole sleeve corner hubs and quick clips, making this an easy two-person setup. Inside the tent, you'll find plenty of stash pockets and a gear loft to help keep your items organized. The large mesh windows with waterproof curtains allow amazing views and ventilation.

Pros:

• Near-vertical walls perfect for air mattresses and cots
• Extended fly coverage over door
• Middle divider to separate space for two families
• Large doors at the front and rear of the tent for easy access
• Can fit up to six people
• Floor area is 100 sq. ft

Cons:

• About 24lbs heavier than other tents
• Three-season tent
• Not an easy setup for solo living

Roof Tents

Roof tents are great for people looking to explore destinations by vehicle. The freedom to carry all your belongings in your vehicle and set up camp with the knowledge that you can pick up and leave whenever you want is liberating! Listed below, we have a couple of roof tents that are terrific options for a more permanent tent living situation.

5. Roofnest Condor XL Tent

The Roofnest Condor XL is just like their traditional Condor design with its hardshell fold-out design. Still, this one has an increased width of 14 inches, making it a great option for a family or anyone looking for a little extra elbow room.

Pros:

• Four-person tent
• Near king-size sleeping area
• Includes: 2.5” foam mattress, 8.5” ladder, universal mounting kit, detachable pockets, roof nest privacy tent, 4x4 ground mat, and interior LED light
• Compatible with next-level accessories
• Can accommodate solar panels

Cons:

• Not great in windy conditions
• Higher price point

6. Thule Tepui Foothill Tent

The Thule Tepui Foothill tent is a three-season tent with a weather-resistant and durable fabric to withstand harsh weather conditions. It is breathable, reducing condensation build-up inside the tent. With the exterior attachment points, you can really make your setup feel like home by adding lamps, storage, or other gear accessories. This tent allows an easy one-person setup with telescopic internal frame poles.

Despite this being a three-season tent, the perk of having a roof tent is you can drive to a warmer location if a storm is on the way or if you're looking to avoid winter conditions.

Pros:

• Includes: Plus 1.6in (4cm) thick foam mattress with a removable, machine-washable cover
• Low-profile design allows the tent to be mounted on either side of your vehicle.
• Allows a variety of views with its large rear window and dual skylights, making it perfect for stargazing on a clear night.
• Aerodynamic profile to reduce drag while driving
• Coated ripstop nylon fabric
• 600D ripstop polyester

Cons:

• Two-person tent, not great for larger groups
• Three-season tent

Find the Right Long-Term Camping/Living Tent for You

Ultimately, the best tent option for long-term camping/living varies based on each person's unique circumstances and personal preferences. Hopefully, this article helped you narrow your search, and you can feel more sure you're making the right decision for your adventure. After all, you're choosing a tent that will be your shelter and possibly a place you call home! If you need assistance picking the right tent, chat with me or one of my fellow Camping & Hiking Experts here on Curated. Happy living!