Camping & Outdoor Gear · Beginners
Tents & Shelters for Beginners
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the Glymnis Pop Up Beach Tent 4-6 Person, UV Protection Beach Sun Shelter Tent | UPF 50+, Extra Large, Silver-coated 190T Polyester, Instant Pop Up, No Assembly, 3 Window, Family Tent for Beach Garden, Blue — the best Tents & Shelters we tested, from £69.99.
When starting out in camping and outdoor adventures, it's important to choose a tent that provides good value for money without compromising on essential features like protection from the elements and comfort. For beginners, terms such as UPF rating, material durability, and ease of setup are key considerations; meanwhile, details like specific colour options or exact dimensions can usually be adjusted later based on personal preference or more extensive use.
See the full range in Tents & Shelters.
Currently unavailable
Pros
- 1-2 Person
- 3-4 Person
- High Quality & Portable - Made of 190T Sliver Coated Polyester, our beach tent is not easy to be teared. Open Size: 185 x 140 x 115cm, Folded Size: 44 x 44 x 3cm. With our carry bag, you can take it anywhere
- Easy Set Up & Take Down - With automatic pop-up design, Glymnis pop up beach tent can pop up in one second without any confusing and tedious steps. You can also take down the beach tent easily by following the right way(Refer to product images and user manual)
Cons
- Full specification not confirmed on the listing — check before buying
#2 Pick
Neso Tents Grande Beach Tent, 2.1 m(7ft) Tall, 2.7m(9ft) x 2.7m(9ft), Reinforced Corners and Cooler PocketCurrently unavailable
Pros
- DESIGN. Beautifully Designed in Southern California; Corner anchor bags to be weighed down with sand or rocks
- MATERIALS. 2.7m x 2.7m high quality Nylon/Lycra blend main tent fabric; Patented Reinforced Corners for long lasting; Rust-proof Aluminum Poles; 2.1 meters tall!
- LIGHT & PORTABLE. Easy to Carry. Weighs Only 2.95 kilograms! 49.5 cm shoulder carrying bag that Fits in a Carry-on Suitcase. Includes a Cooler Pocket for your drinks and snacks!
- UPF 50+ PROTECTION, WATER REPELLENT. The Neso Tent will keep you protected on both sunny and rainy days
Cons
- Setup requires anchoring with sand or rocks.
- Cooler pocket may not be suitable for all items.
#3 Pick
Glymnis Pop Up Beach Tent 4-6 Person, UV Protection Beach Sun Shelter Tent | UPF 50+, Extra Large, Silver-coated 190T Polyester, Instant Pop Up, No Assembly, 3 Window, Family Tent for Beach Garden, Blue£69.99
Pros
- LARGE BEACH TENT FOR FAMILY - With dimensions of 210 x 160 x 145 cm, Glymnis beach tent offers you a spacious interior. You can enjoy the summer holiday with family or friends together. And you can even put 2 chairs in it.
- EASY SET UP TENT - With hydraulic system, you just need a few minutes to set up and pack away this beach tent without taking much effort. The detailed installation steps have been written in the user manual.
- UPF 50+ UV PROTECTION SUN TENT - With sun protection coating, Glymnis beach sun shelter can protect your skin from the sunlight. And the extended awning design can provide more shade for you.
- VENTILATION & WINDPROOF - 3 large mesh windows allow the airflow and make you feel cool during the hot summer. With the tent pegs and windproof ropes in the accessories, our beach tent will be stable even in windy days.
Cons
- Small carry bag for large tent.
- Limited space for chairs within the tent.
Currently unavailable
Pros
- 360 Degree view plus enhanced ventilation: Six large windows and mesh roof for maximum air circulation; two hinged doors open like a real door for easy access; full head height throughout the large 6-8 person tent
- Sturdy and easy to pitch family size octagon tent: Colour-coded steel poles for easy set up and a good response to wind, flysheet can be removed and tent transforms into a bug-proof screen room
- Extra large space: No more space problems, the family tent offers luxurious space that can be used as a large luxury glamping bedroom, a playroom for kids, or a group tent for festival gatherings
- 100 Percent waterproof: Thanks to Coleman's Weather Tec system with 2000 mm HH combined with taped seams and fully sewn-in groundsheet will keep you dry, whatever the weather
Cons
- Large tent may be difficult to transport.
- Single room design limits flexibility.
FAQ
What's the difference between a tent and a shelter?
Tents are typically designed for sleeping in and can be erected with poles, while shelters like tarps or lean-tos are more flexible and used mainly for shade or protection from light rain.
Do I need to get an insulated tent?
Not necessarily; if you're a beginner, focus on getting a waterproof and windproof tent rather than insulation. Insulation is important for colder climates but less crucial for mild UK weather.
How do I choose the right size tent for my needs?
Choose a tent based on how many people will be using it; start with something small (like a two-person tent) and expand as your needs grow. Also, consider storage space inside the tent.
What about ventilation in tents?
Good ventilation prevents condensation build-up, which can make the interior damp. Look for designs that allow you to open windows or doors easily.
How important is a rainfly with my tent?
A rainfly is essential as it protects your tent from heavy rainfall and keeps everything inside dry. Make sure it fits well over your tent frame.
What should I consider regarding the poles of a tent?
Poles need to be robust yet lightweight for easy pitching and durability. Look for materials like aluminum, which is common and strong enough for most conditions.
How do stakes and guy lines contribute to my tent setup?
Stakes secure your tent to the ground, while guy lines provide extra support against wind. Ensure they are included in your purchase as part of a complete set.
Is it necessary to get a tent with a floor or can I use a tarp instead?
A tent floor is convenient for protecting the ground and making it more comfortable. If you prefer, you can start with just tarps but remember they won't protect against moisture as effectively.
What are the benefits of choosing a freestanding tent?
Freestanding tents don’t require pegs to be driven into the ground; instead, they use poles that stand on their own. This makes setup quicker and easier.
How do I maintain my new tent after first use?
Inspect your tent for any damage before each trip, clean it with a mild detergent, and air it out between uses to keep it in good condition.
In depth
When you're new to camping, tents can seem like a confusing mix of shapes, sizes, and features. However, for your first tent purchase, there are just a few key things to look out for that will make all the difference.
Firstly, consider the number of people it needs to accommodate. Tents come in various sizes; for beginners, a two-person tent is usually sufficient for solo camping or short trips with a partner. Larger tents can be useful if you're going on multi-day excursions and want extra space for equipment or extra people.
The type of fabric used also matters significantly but can often feel like overcomplicated jargon to decipher. Look for tents made from durable materials like nylon or polyester, which are generally waterproof and resistant to abrasion. These fabrics will keep you dry and comfortable in most weather conditions. Pay less attention to the claims about "breathability" unless you plan on spending long days out in high temperatures.
Ventilation is another feature that can be important for comfort, especially if you're planning to camp during warmer months or at higher altitudes where air movement might help keep you cool and reduce condensation inside. Look for tents with mesh panels or windows, but remember that these openings can also let in pests like mosquitoes, so consider whether this is a priority.
Setting up your tent is another crucial aspect of comfort and safety. Tents are available in various designs: A-frames, dome-shaped, and tunnel-style are common. Dome tents are often the easiest to set up because they have fewer poles and can be pitched quickly. Tunnel tents offer more space but may take a bit longer to put together. For beginners, simplicity is key; choose a tent with straightforward instructions and an easy setup process.
Durability is another factor to consider, especially if you plan on using your tent in challenging weather conditions or rough terrain. Look for tents that have been tested for longevity under various environments. While not all manufacturers will provide this information, some will mention the material's durability or give a general idea of how many times the tent can withstand setup and teardown cycles before it starts to wear out.
Finally, portability is an essential feature if you plan on carrying your tent around frequently. Lightweight tents are easier to transport but may sacrifice some space or structural integrity for weight reduction. Consider the balance between being able to carry your gear with ease and having a comfortable, stable shelter when setting up in less than ideal conditions.
In conclusion, as a beginner camper, focus on simplicity, durability, and ease of use over complex features that you might not need frequently. Stick to basic models like two-person dome tents until you get more experience, then gradually explore other designs and features based on your specific needs and preferences.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.