[For Beginners] Learn About Tent Types, Features, and How to Choose! Plus, Recommended Tents

Types and Features of Tents

A tent allows you to create your own private space in the great outdoors.

Even if you started out by renting, when you see a campsite, you’ll probably think, “Next time, I want my own tent!”

Tents come in a wide variety of types from various manufacturers.

To find the perfect tent for you, don’t just choose based on a vague impression—make sure to consider the key points.

In this article, we’ll cover the basic types of tents you should know about, their pros and cons, tips for choosing a tent that won’t let you down, and our recommended models.

If you’re thinking about buying a tent, please use this as a reference.

Dome Tent

As the name suggests, a dome tent is shaped like a "hemispherical dome," characterized by its gentle curve resembling an upside-down bowl.

Arched poles are crossed to form the dome shape.

[Pros]

• There is no dead space, so the interior feels spacious.
• Since it can be lifted, you can move it or change its orientation after setup.
• You can flip it over during takedown to dry the bottom of the tent.
• Its spherical shape allows wind to flow over it, making it wind-resistant.

【Disadvantages】

• Larger models require more strength to set up.
• It is bulky and heavy due to the poles and frame.
• Models without a canopy (awning or overhang) at the entrance are prone to letting in wind and rain, so you’ll need to set up a separate tarp to create a vestibule.

Single-Pole Tent

A single-pole tent is a pyramid-shaped tent set up by erecting a single pole in the center. It is also called a “monopole tent,” and because its shape resembles a “teepee”—the portable dwelling of Native Americans—it is also known as a “teepee tent.”

[Advantages]

• You can create a stylish campsite.
• Setup is simple: just erect the single pole and stake down the bottom.
• Lightweight and compact.

[Disadvantages]

• The walls narrow toward the ceiling, resulting in a lot of dead space.
• Since the pole stands in the center of the interior, you’ll need to be creative with the layout inside the tent.
• The slanted entrance allows rain to blow in.

Two-room tent

A two-room tent is a type of tent that divides the interior into an entryway and a sleeping area.

Having two separate rooms makes it convenient for families or groups camping together, as it allows for private spaces.

[Advantages]

• You can use the space as separate rooms.
• If you close all the walls of the front room, you can feel secure when sleeping or leaving the campsite.
• Since there are walls on all sides and you can freely open or close them, if you’re close to your neighbors, you can close off just that side to ensure privacy.

【Disadvantages】

• It’s large and difficult to handle.
• It takes effort to store
• It’s heavy, so it’s difficult to carry alone

Shelter Tent

A shelter tent is a simple tent with no floor, or a tent with walls on all four sides. They come in various shapes, such as dome-shaped, single-pole, and double-pole styles.

[Advantages]

• Since there is no floor, setup and takedown are easy, and the tent is lightweight.
• You don’t need to take off your shoes to go inside.
• The single-pole type is the easiest to set up, while the two-pole type is spacious and suitable for large groups.

[Disadvantages]

• Since there is no floor, water can accumulate inside the shelter in areas with poor drainage.
• If you want to lie down inside the shelter, you’ll need to lay down a sheet or mat.
• Since the floor is exposed to the ground and grass, it’s not suitable for people who are sensitive to odors or insects.

Additionally, the "pup tent" (military-style), popular for its rugged vibe, features a simple structure mainly suited for solo or duo use and is often chosen by those who enjoy campfires.

Lodge Tent

Lodge tents are shaped like retro mountain cabins (lodges) and have higher ceilings than dome or single-pole tents.

[Advantages]

• The high ceiling creates a sense of openness and provides a spacious living area.
• The retro design is stylish and allows you to create a unique campsite.
• Although large, setup is simple.
• Many models are designed to accommodate a chimney, allowing for the use of a wood-burning stove.

【Disadvantages】

• Depending on the tent material, it can be heavy.
• They are large and bulky, so you need to secure space in your car and for storage.
• Even the smaller models are expensive. 

Tunnel Tent

As the name suggests, tunnel tents have a fish-shaped exterior and a long interior that resembles a tunnel. They are spacious, making them ideal for family or group camping.

[Advantages]

• The spacious living area allows you to relax comfortably.
• Unlike two-room tents, the poles do not cross but are arranged in the same direction, making for a simple structure that is easier to set up than it looks.
• Even beginners can set it up and take it down.
• You can attach an inner tent to the inside to create a two-room setup.

【Disadvantages】

• Depending on the tent material, it can be heavy.
• It is large and bulky, so you need to secure space in your car or for storage.
• Depending on the size, it may not fit within a designated campsite.

Air Tents

Air tents, also known as air-frame tents or inflatable tents, feature a revolutionary system where air is pumped into the frame, causing the entire tent to inflate and stand upright.

[Advantages]

• Setup is easy since there is no need to assemble a frame.
• Since flexible tubes serve as the frame, there is no need to worry about poles breaking, as with conventional tents.
• Perfect for those who don’t want to spend time setting up.

[Disadvantages]

• It takes time to deflate the tent when packing it up.
• It’s bulky when packed, so you’ll need to secure space in your car or for storage.
• It’s heavy, so it’s difficult to carry.
• There is always a chance the tubes could puncture.

How to Choose a Tent

In the previous section, you’ve likely gained an understanding of the various types of tents available, along with their respective features, advantages, and disadvantages.

With that in mind, here are some key points to help you choose the tent that’s right for you.

Tip 1: Choose the Size Based on the Number of People

The most basic step is to decide “how many people will be using the tent.” Determine the number of people first, then choose the tent size.

Generally, numbers like “2-person” listed on products refer to the “sleeping capacity.”

Since you’ll likely want to store furniture and gear inside, we recommend choosing a tent that’s slightly larger—one that accommodates one more person than your group size.

Tip #2: Choose a Tent That Sets Up Quickly

If you’re a beginner, you’ll have other things to do besides setting up the tent, so you probably don’t want to spend too much time on setup.

Especially at campsites in the scorching heat of midsummer or the bitter cold of midwinter, if setup takes too long, you might end up getting frustrated before you even start.

Choose a tent that can be set up quickly once you arrive at the campsite.

Tip 3: A tent that packs down compactly is convenient for transport and storage

Be sure to check the packed size of the tent after it’s been taken down. Products that don’t fold down compactly and remain bulky will naturally be heavier.

If there’s a distance between the parking lot and the campsite, a heavy tent can be difficult to carry alone. Also, check whether it’s a size that fits in your car and if you have a place to store it when not in use.

For camping beginners, we recommend a compact, lightweight tent, as it is easier to handle. Note that storage size and ease of setup are key considerations not only for camping but also when selecting gear for car camping, where you spend time in a limited space.

Tip 4: Choosing a Design You Like Will Boost Your Mood

The design and color of the tent are important. No matter how functional or easy to set up a tent is, if you choose one that doesn’t quite match your taste—say, thinking “this isn’t very stylish”—you might not feel quite as excited about your time at the campsite.

If you choose a tent with a design and color that you love—one that makes you think, “That’s cool!”—it will boost your spirits and help you enjoy your day.

Tip 5: Consider functionality, such as water resistance, materials, and expandability

Be sure to check the tent’s features, such as whether it’s made of highly water-resistant material that can withstand sudden rain, or durable material with high waterproofing and light-blocking properties.

Generally, a tent with a “water resistance rating of 1,500–2,000 mm” (*) is suitable for handling normal rainfall.

Expandability refers to features that allow for flexibility beyond standard use, such as changing the shape of the tent or connecting it to other tents or tarps to accommodate larger groups. This flexibility is especially convenient when the number of participants increases.

*Water resistance: An indicator of "how much water pressure a tent can withstand," referring to the fabric’s ability to prevent water from seeping through.

TOKYO CRAFTS Tent Lineup

Here are some popular tents from "TOKYO CRAFTS," a Japanese brand that develops original camping gear.

Diafort TC Solo Tent

The Diafort TC Solo Tent is a solo tent that fulfills the criteria of a high ceiling, an open, tarp-like feel, and a spacious interior. With no dead space, you can use it comfortably.

Its distinctive, sharp "diamond-shaped" (*) form gives it a unique and sophisticated look. It’s simple and easy to set up and take down.

*Diamond Pitch: A tarp pitching method where the tarp forms a diamond shape with a single anchor point

Montope

The Montope is a shelter-style tent without a floor, featuring large windows on three sides—the roof, left, and right—creating a sense of openness.

Its appeal lies in the ability to enjoy a sense of being one with nature while still maintaining a private space. There is ample room to fit two adult-sized cots side by side.

With optional accessories like an inner tent to enhance convenience, it’s versatile and easy to customize.

Wing Fort

The Wing Fort is an all-around shelter that can be adapted to suit any situation.

Its unique double-layer structure allows you to switch between fully closed, fully open, and mesh modes, making it capable of handling sudden changes in weather.

With a ceiling height of 2.1 meters, it feels spacious and airy inside. It’s perfect for family camping.

Tenbi Shelter

The Tenbi Shelter is easy to set up yet creates a comfortable space. It features a skylight panel on the front roof, allowing you to gaze at the sky while lying down inside the tent.

Although it uses three poles for setup, they are color-coded, so even beginners can set it up quickly and without confusion. It’s spacious enough for a family of four to relax comfortably.

Choose Expensive Tents Carefully!

We’ve covered the wide variety of tents available, the pros and cons of each, and the importance of making a careful choice based on key factors—not just your first impression.

Since a tent is a significant investment, be sure to research it from various angles and choose a product you’re fully satisfied with. Please also check out our lightweight tents.