Let’s face it—nobody heads out for a summer camping trip dreaming of spending their nights in a sauna disguised as a tent or wrestling with a rainfly like it owes you money during a midnight storm. But the right tent? It’s the difference between waking up feeling like you’ve been kissed by the wilderness and waking up wondering why you tried to ‘connect with nature’ in the first place. This guide is here to break it all down—what you need, what works, and what’s really worth your hard-earned cash when you’re gearing up for some serious outdoor adventures.

Tents, like old friendships, should stand the test of time—and maybe a few downpours and heatwaves too. After sifting through all the pros, cons, and quirks of this year’s lineup, you’re now armed with everything you need to make a choice you’ll be grateful for, even when the bugs try to crash your campfire party. Pick your tent, pack your gear, and get ready to chase those sunsets and starry skies—this summer’s adventures are yours for the taking!