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Curated Camping & Hiking experts help thousands of customers every season find the right gear within their budget. Check out their most recommended tents under $500, and be sure to chat with a Curated expert to receive advice and personalized recommendations on the best tent for your needs.
By Tent ExpertsMaicen, Daniel, Meg and others
The Nemo Aurora Tent w/ Footprint is a top pick for those seeking a spacious, high-quality tent that doesn't break the bank. It's perfect for car camping and base camp setups, and even for backpacking if you don't mind a bit of extra weight. With ample headspace, an included footprint, and easy setup, this tent offers great value. Its durability and weather resistance make it a reliable choice for 3-season camping.
by Curated experts Maicen Stuart, Alex K., Amy B
Ideal for
- Car camping
- Base camp setups
- Backpacking (for those okay with extra weight)
- 3-season camping
- Those seeking spaciousness and headroom
Not ideal for
- Ultralight backpacking
- Winter conditions
Eureka Suma 2 Tent
$77.48
$154.95
50% off
The Eureka Suma 2 Tent is a top pick for those seeking a lightweight, affordable, and spacious 2-person tent. With its easy setup and ample space, it's perfect for camping and hiking adventures. Its mesh lining allows for stargazing opportunities, and it's also a solid choice for first-time tent buyers. However, ventilation may be compromised with the rainfly on, and the single door could pose access issues for two people.
by Curated experts Kami B, Taylor Nelson, Kaley W.
Ideal for
- First-time tent buyers
- Camping and hiking enthusiasts
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Those seeking a lightweight tent
- Stargazers
Not ideal for
- Those who prefer multiple access points
- Those who require high-end ventilation
Marmot Tungsten 2 Tent
$214.00
The Marmot Tungsten 2 Tent is a fantastic choice for those who value comfort and space in their outdoor adventures. With almost vertical walls, two large doors, and a mesh roof for star gazing, this tent offers a roomy experience whether you're camping solo or with a partner. The tent's unique 'privacy walls' and two vestibules provide ample storage without compromising on ventilation. Although it's not the lightest option, its durability and extra amenities make it a top pick for 3-season backpacking.
by Curated experts Loui L, Adam L., Sophie Bonstrom
Ideal for
- 3-season backpacking
- Camping with one or two people
- Those who value extra amenities
- Star gazers
- Campers who prefer more interior space
Not ideal for
- Winter camping
- Extreme cold conditions
- Those seeking the lightest backpacking tent
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Nemo Hornet 2 Tent
$399.95
The Nemo Hornet 2 Tent is a top pick for ultralight backpackers. It's a 3-season tent that's impressively light at 2lb 6 oz packed weight, yet spacious enough for two people or one person with plenty of gear. Its 1-pole system makes it easy to set up in all conditions, and it's durable enough to withstand the elements. However, it's not designed for heavy winds in exposed areas or for cold weather trips due to its breathable mesh design.
by Curated experts Connor Hult, Taylor Nelson, Jenn L.
Ideal for
- Ultralight backpacking
- 3-season camping
- Two-person camping
- One-person camping with extra gear
- Easy setup in various conditions
Not ideal for
- Camping in heavy winds on exposed ridge-lines
- Cold weather trips
- Camping with a dog or extra gear along with two adults
- Comfortable car camping
Marmot Limestone 4P Tent
$370.00
The Marmot Limestone 4P Tent is a top pick for those who prioritize space and durability in their outdoor adventures. This tent is celebrated for its spacious interior, thanks to steep walls and a 61-inch peak height. It's perfect for accommodating four people comfortably, with plenty of room for gear. The tent also boasts two doors for easy access and a robust rainfly for weather protection. However, its 10lb weight might be a bit hefty for backpackers.
by Curated experts Connor Hult, Padraic S, Amy B
Ideal for
- Four-person camping trips
- Overlanding in nice weather
- Car camping
- Those who prioritize space and durability
Not ideal for
- Foul-weather camping
- Backpacking due to its weight
- Four-season camping
Nemo Hornet 1 Tent
$359.95
The Nemo Hornet 1 Tent is a top choice for backpackers seeking a lightweight, durable, and reliable shelter. It's a 3-season tent that's ultra-lightweight, making it perfect for extensive backcountry trips. It's easy to set up, thanks to its intuitive color-coded system and featherlite poles. It also offers good space and comfort, with dual vestibules for extra storage. However, it's not ideal for harsh weather conditions or for taller individuals seeking more spacious accommodations.
by Curated experts Johnny V, Riley Gunning, Mitchel T
Ideal for
- Backpacking
- 3-season camping
- Ultralight backpacking
- One person use
- Adventures in unpredictable weather conditions
Not ideal for
- Winter camping
- Camping in exposed areas with high winds
- Taller individuals
- Two person use
The Eureka! Midori Tent is a top choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet fully functional tent. It's perfect for car camping or backpacking, thanks to its lightweight design (4lbs 7oz) and compact pack size. The tent offers a spacious interior with increased headroom, two large doors, and two vestibules for gear storage. It's ideal for two people, or one person with a pet or extra gear. The tent also features a vented rainfly for condensation management and an oversized gear loft for added convenience.
by Curated experts Kat Smith, Gregg Mason, Loui L
Ideal for
- Car camping
- Backpacking
- Budget-conscious campers
- Camping with pets
- Camping in various weather conditions
Nemo Dragonfly 2 Tent
$449.95
The Nemo Dragonfly 2 Tent is a top choice for those seeking a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-set-up shelter for their outdoor adventures. It's perfect for ultralight backpacking and thru-hiking, thanks to its streamlined 3-season design, double doors/vestibules, and freestanding design. This tent is also a hit among those who value innovation and quality, as it's designed by a brand known for its pioneering spirit in the camping world. However, it may not be the best choice for winter camping or when a more robust, 4-season tent is required.
by Curated experts Alex Dolan, Gregg Mason, Jeff S.
Ideal for
- Ultralight backpacking
- Thru-hiking
- 3-season camping
- Outdoor enthusiasts who value innovation and quality
- Those who prefer a freestanding tent design
Not ideal for
- Winter camping
- Scenarios requiring a more robust, 4-season tent
The Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent is a top pick for those seeking a spacious yet lightweight shelter for their outdoor adventures. Its unique design offers ample headspace and room for two, making it perfect for a duo or a solo camper with a furry friend. The tent's two doors and large vestibules provide easy access and plenty of storage. Its rain shield polyester fly sheet and bathtub design ensure you stay dry, even in a downpour. However, it's not suitable for winter conditions or backcountry trips due to its 3-season design and spaciousness.
by Curated experts Amy B, Mariah Wear, Daniel Zehr
Ideal for
- Two-person camping
- Three-season camping
- Car camping
- Long trips
- Camping with pets
Not ideal for
- Winter conditions
- Backpacking or backcountry trips
- Harsh cold environments
The Black Diamond HiLight Tent is a top pick for those who brave the elements year-round. Its 4-season durability, lightweight design, and innovative 'Flow Manifold' system make it perfect for winter backpacking and high-elevation camping. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking extra space or a built-in vestibule for gear storage during storms.
by Curated experts Kate Monforti, Morgan Perlman, Andrew Muse
Ideal for
- 4-season camping
- Winter backpacking
- High-elevation camping
- Budget-conscious campers
- Campers who prioritize warmth and durability
Not ideal for
- Summer camping
- Campers needing extra space
- Campers who require a built-in vestibule for gear storage during storms
Other lists to consider
Curated experts can help
Have a question about the article you just read or want personal recommendations? Connect with a Curated expert to find exactly what you are looking for!Result Summary
- Nemo Aurora 2 Tent w/ Footprint
- Eureka Suma 2 Tent
- Marmot Tungsten 2 Tent
- Nemo Hornet 2 Tent
- Marmot Limestone 4P Tent
- Nemo Hornet 1 Tent
- Eureka Midori 2 Tent
- Nemo Dragonfly 2 Tent
- Marmot Tungsten Ultralight Tent
- Black Diamond HiLight 2 Tent
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