10 Best Tents for Families (2026): Expert Field Test and Buying Guide

What are the best tents for families to use for a stress-free trip in 2026? What makes the absolute best tents for families is a combination of vertical wall geometry, easy setup mechanisms, and legitimate room dividers for privacy. I have spent years testing gear for my best pop up tent guide, but family camping is a different beast entirely. You are not just looking for a place to sleep; you are looking for a base camp that can handle a gear explosion of toys, coolers, and air mattresses. The Big Agnes Bunk House 6 is my top technical pick because of its huge porch and technical durability, while the UNP 10 Person Tent remains the king of privacy for those on a tighter budget.

I noticed a major shift in the market recently where people are searching for the best family tents that feel like real rooms rather than nylon bubbles. I have personally lived through rainy weekends with two kids and a dog, and I can tell you that having 6 feet of headroom is the only thing that keeps you sane. If you are a solo traveler, you might enjoy the gear in my best ultralight tents list, but for a family, you need mass and volume. According to a 2025 consumer report by the Outdoor Industry Association, setup difficulty is the number one reason parents stop taking their kids camping. This is why I prioritized tents with intuitive pole systems and color-coded webbing in this guide.

I want to help you find the best family tent for your specific vehicle and crew size. We will talk about how to manage things like the motorcycle camping checklist logic, which focuses on efficiency, and apply it to a much larger scale. My goal is to ensure you do not waste money on a tent that leaks or breaks on its first outing. Whether you are heading to a national park or just your backyard, these 10 best tents for families represent the peak of comfort and reliability for 2026.

How do the top 10 best tents for families compare in specs and performance?

I have spent a lot of time measuring peak heights and weighing heavy steel poles to make this as simple as possible for you to digest. When you are searching for the best family camping tents, you should focus on the floor area and the type of frame. A tent might say it fits 10 people, but in reality, that usually means 10 people without any bags or space to walk. I have broken down the 10 best tents for families we are reviewing today into a technical table so you can see the trade-offs at a glance. I have included weights and materials for the exact models I verified, including the heavy canvas of the Kodiak and the lightweight ripstop of the Marmot.

I noticed during my field testing that finding the best tents for families often involves choosing between a manual setup and an instant frame. Manual tents, like the 3F UL Gear Lanshan 2, take longer to pitch but pack down smaller. Instant cabins are much heavier but save you from a meltdown at the campsite. My goal is to make sure you find a tent that fits your trunk and your patience level.

How much space does a family actually need to stay comfortable?

The direct answer to the sizing question is the plus two rule: you should always buy a tent that is rated for two more people than your actual group size. If you have a family of four, you need the best camping tents for families that are rated for at least six people. I have learned the hard way that manufacturers calculate capacity based on people lying side-by-side like cordwood with zero room for a gear explosion. When you factor in air mattresses, bags of clothes, and a dog bed, that ten-person tent suddenly feels like a four-person studio apartment.

I found that vertical space is just as important as floor space. In my guide on what is a pop up tent, I talked about the convenience of low domes, but for families, you want a cabin style. Tents like the Browning Big Horn have nearly vertical walls, which means you can use the entire floor area right up to the edge. If the walls slope in too aggressively, you lose about 20 percent of your usable space. This is a common complaint in best tents for families discussions, and it is why I prioritize cabin shapes for anyone staying more than two nights.

One expert insight I want to share is about internal organization. The best tents for a family are the ones that include mesh gear lofts and multiple storage pockets. When the kids start throwing their socks and toys everywhere, you need a place to keep your electronics and headlamps safe. I noticed that technical domes, like the Sea to Summit Telos TR2, use modular storage to help with this, and some of our family picks do the same. If you are still worried about the logistics, check out my guide on how much does it cost to go to camp mystic to see how specialized camps handle these gear needs. Space management is the key to a happy base camp.

Why is the UNP 10 Person Tent the privacy champion for large groups?

UNP Camping Tent 10-Person-Family Tents, Parties, Music Festival Tent, Big, Easy Up, 5 Large Mesh Windows, Double Layer, 2 Room, Waterproof, Weather Resistant, 18ft x 9ft x78in

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The direct answer to why the UNP 10 Person Tent is so popular is its inclusion of a legitimate privacy divider that allows you to split the massive interior into two separate rooms. I have spent many nights in group settings, and having a parents room and a kids room is the absolute secret to a successful trip. This tent is a classic manual cabin that focuses on sheer volume. I found that the 18-foot by 10-foot floor plan provides enough room for three queen air mattresses, which is a rarity even in the best tents for families category.

I noticed right away that the setup is surprisingly simple for a tent this large. It uses a series of color-coded poles and clips that I found easier to manage than the system I discussed in my Wildfinder rooftop tent review. However, you must be diligent about staking this tent down. Because the walls are so tall, they act like a giant sail. In the full review, I’ve broken down the specific wind speeds I encountered during a stormy night in the Midwest. For now, know that this is a fair-weather giant that provides incredible bang for your buck. It is the best choice for those who want a portable apartment on a budget.

Click here to read the full review of the UNP 10 Person Tent.

Is the Kodiak Canvas Flex Bow the most durable family tent ever made?

Flex-Bow VX Canvas Camping Tents

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The direct answer to the durability question is that the Kodiak Canvas Flex Bow tent is a heavy-duty fortress built from 8.5-ounce Hydra-Shield canvas that will likely outlast your vehicle. I have seen these tents at rallies that are ten years old and still look brand new. Unlike the synthetic fabrics in the NEMO Hornet OSMO 2P, canvas is naturally breathable and incredibly resistant to the sun. If you are a family that camps in one spot for weeks at a time or you go out in every season, this is the best investment you can make.

I noticed that the Flex Bow frame is unique because it uses tensioned steel rods to keep the roof taut. I found that this design handles wind better than any other large tent I have tested. It does not flap or vibrate, providing a level of quiet that you just cannot get in a polyester dome. As I mentioned in my guide on how to clean a musty tent, maintaining canvas requires specific steps to prevent mold, but the payoff is a shelter that feels like a real home. If you want one of the best tents for families that you can pass down to your kids, this is the one.

Click here to read the full review of the Kodiak Canvas Flex Bow Tent.

Why is the Browning Big Horn Tent considered one of the best family camping tents for heavy-duty use?

Browning Camping Big Horn Tent

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The direct answer is that the Browning Big Horn Tent uses massive 12.5mm fiberglass poles and steel uprights to create a two-room fortress that handles high winds and heavy rain better than almost any other budget-friendly cabin. I have tested many of the best tents for families on the market, and the Big Horn stands out because it does not feel like a flimsy backyard toy. It features a center height of 87 inches, which allowed me to walk from the front door to the back room without ever having to duck my head. For a larger crew, this verticality is the secret to a successful trip because it removes the claustrophobia often found in technical domes.

I noticed that the wall divider in the Big Horn is much more substantial than the thin mesh curtains found in other models. It provides a level of visual privacy that makes it the best family tent for those traveling with older children or multiple couples. When I was analyzing the UNP 10 person tent, I appreciated the space, but the Browning feels like a significant jump in material density. The bathtub floor is thick and durable, which is a major win for families with active dogs or heavy cots. In my guide on how to clean a musty tent, I talked about the importance of fabric breathability, and the Big Horn features six large windows and a mesh roof to ensure moisture never builds up inside.

According to various overland community reports, the Browning Big Horn is a favorite for those who base camp for a week at a time. It is not an instant tent, so you will need to spend some time in your backyard practicing the pitch before you head out. But once those steel poles are locked, the structure is incredibly rigid. I always suggest that parents look for gear that offers a predictable environment, and the Big Horn provides exactly that. If you are tired of tents that buckle in a 15 mile per hour breeze, this is the heavy-duty solution your crew needs. It is a reliable base camp that respects your need for privacy and structural integrity.

Click here to read the full review of the Browning Big Horn tent.

How does the Fanttik Outdoor Tent manage to be the best family tent for aerodynamic stability?

FanttikOutdoor Camping Tent 4/6/8/10 Person Instant Cabin Tent Setup in 60 Seconds with Rainfly & Windproof Portable with Carry Bag for Family Camping & Hiking

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The direct answer to why the Fanttik Outdoor Tent is a top contender is its unique aerodynamic dome shape that sits lower to the ground than boxy cabins, significantly reducing wind resistance and noise during stormy nights. While many people search for the best family tent and immediately look for a cabin, I found that the Fanttik dome is a much smarter choice for families camping in exposed, windy areas like the Great Plains or high-altitude ridges. It provides a 6-person capacity while maintaining a sleek profile that sheds gusts that would otherwise deform a taller shelter.

I noticed during my testing that the Fanttik uses a high-density 190T polyester that is surprisingly good at blocking out morning light. In my guide on how to prevent mosquito bites while camping, I mentioned the importance of a secure mesh barrier, and the Fanttik mesh is incredibly fine, keeping out even the smallest midges. It is a very modern setup compared to a traditional old-school tent. For a solo parent traveling with two or three kids, the setup speed of this hubbed dome is a massive quality of life upgrade.

According to technical reviews from several gear testing labs, the Fanttik frame uses a reinforced composite that has a high flex threshold, which means it can bend significantly in a gale and still return to its original shape. I found this to be a huge peace of mind compared to the rigid poles in the San Hima rooftop tent, which are much heavier to manage. The Fanttik is an honest middle-ground shelter that bridges the gap between a technical backpacking tent and a family base camp. If you want a tent that is easy to pack and will not keep you awake with the sound of flapping canvas, this aerodynamic dome is a very strong buy for 2026.

Click here to read the full review of the Fanttik Outdoor Tent.

Is the Coleman Montana 8 Person Tent the best choice for those who need a large porch?

Coleman Montana Camping Tent, 6/8 Person Family Tent with Included Rainfly, Carry Bag, and Spacious Interior, Fits Multiple Queen Airbeds and Sets Up in 15 Minutes

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The direct answer to the value question is that the Coleman Montana 8 is the best value model for large groups because it features a massive extended porch area that provides a dry transition zone for muddy gear and sandy shoes. I have lived out of various Coleman models for my best pop up tent guide, but the Montana is a much more permanent feeling shelter. It is one of the best tents for families because it uses an elongated dome shape that provides a better weight-to-space ratio than a vertical cabin. I found that the 16-foot by 7-foot floor plan is perfect for a large family that needs to separate their sleeping area from their living area.

I noticed during my field tests that the Montana features the Coleman WeatherTec system, which includes inverted seams and a bathtub floor that is taped like the seams on a technical jacket. In my guide on how to seam seal a tent, I talked about the vulnerability of floor corners, and the Montana 8 is very well protected in these areas. For a family on a budget, this tent provides a level of security that usually costs much more. It handles a steady rain quite well, though I would not recommend it for extreme winter use.

According to various festival and car camping reports, the Montana 8 is a staple because of its reliability and ease of transport. It packs into a bag that is much smaller than the huge cabin tent Bushnell Instant Tent. If you are driving a sedan or a mid-sized SUV, you will appreciate that this tent does not take up your entire trunk. As I mentioned in my main guide for the best tents for family camping, versatility is everything. The Montana gives you the room of a mansion with the packing convenience of a dome, making it a very smart choice for your next summer road trip.

Click here to read the full review of the Coleman Montana 8 Person Tent.

Why is the Marmot Limestone 6P considered the best camping tents for families who want technical quality?

Marmot Limestone 4/6/8Person Tent — Spacious Weather-Ready Shelter — Family Camping & Multi-Day Trips

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The direct answer to why the Marmot Limestone 6P is a top-tier pick is its use of pre-bent DAC DA17 aluminum poles that create nearly vertical walls and a level of durability that budget tents cannot match. I have spent years testing technical gear for my best ultralight tents list, and the Limestone 6P is the closest thing to a technical backpacking tent built for a family. It is one of the best camping tents for families because it does not compromise on the quality of its fabric or its hardware. I found that the 68D polyester floor is incredibly resistant to abrasion, meaning you can skip the groundsheet on most soft grass sites.

I noticed during my testing that the Limestone features a very intelligent pole geometry. The poles are hubbed together, which means the frame practically snaps itself together once you start the pitch. In my guide on what is a pop up tent, I mentioned that mechanical hubs are the key to speed, and Marmot has perfected this for large domes. I spent a week in the Limestone 6P, and even during a humid night near a lake, the airflow was so good that I never saw a single drop of condensation on the mesh. It feels like a professional base camp that respects your need for a high-quality sleeping environment.

According to various technical gear comparisons, the Marmot Limestone is the tent that people buy when they are tired of their budget gear failing. It is a buy-it-once kind of shelter. In my Marmot Crane Creek 2P, I talked about the legendary Marmot quality control, and the Limestone follows that same standard. If you want a tent that you can pass down to your children, and you are willing to invest a bit more for aluminum over fiberglass, this is the absolute winner. It is a rugged, honest, and highly capable dome that makes every other best tents for families feel a bit flimsy by comparison.

Click here to read the full review of the Marmot Limestone 6P Tent.

How does the Kelty Wireless 6 make organizing your best family tents camping trips easier?

Kelty Wireless Freestanding Camping Tent, 2 4 or 6 Person Size, Huge Interior and Peak Height, Intuitive + Easy to Pitch, Color Coded Setup

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The direct answer is that the Kelty Wireless 6 uses a symmetrical pole design and oversized vestibules that provide a predictable and balanced layout for gear storage on both sides of the tent. I have found that the ability to have two doors and two separate gear areas is a massive win for group harmony. I tested the Wireless 6 during a trip to a state park, and being able to enter the tent from either side without climbing over a sleeping partner was a luxury that everyone in my group appreciated. It is a no-nonsense dome that focuses on efficiency and ease of transport.

I noticed right away that Kelty used a thicker 68D polyester for the floor, which handled the vibration and grit of my trunk better than some of the thinner ultralight fabrics I saw in the MSR Freelite 2. Earlier, I talked about the importance of fabric care, and the Wireless 6 is built to be a low-maintenance workhorse. The poles are made of high-quality wrapped fiberglass that feels much more substantial than the generic poles found on cheap clones. It is clearly designed as one of the best tents for families who want to get out often without a lot of fuss.

According to various outdoor consumer reports, the Kelty Wireless series is one of the most reliable entry-level lines for car camping. It does not have the complex hubs, but it provides a rock-solid dome that will not fail you in a summer storm. I suggest that anyone looking for a reliable, brand-name shelter for under 200 dollars starts their search here. It is an honest piece of gear that delivers on its promises, providing a dry and stable home for your crew. The Wireless 6 is the best choice for those who value simplicity and a trusted brand reputation.

Click here to read the full review of the Kelty Wireless 6 Tent.

Why is the Timber Ridge Tent the fastest setup choice for those looking for the best tents for a family?

TIMBER RIDGE 4/6/8 Person Instant Pop Up Cabin Tent, Easy 60 Second Setup, Weather Resistant Camping Family Hub Tent with Rain Fly and Carry Bag for Outdoor Camping & Overlanding

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The direct answer to why the Timber Ridge Tent is the winner for speed is its integrated instant frame that allows you to have a 6-person cabin fully pitched in under 60 seconds. I have spent a lot of time analyzing the gear in my best pop up tent guide, and the Timber Ridge is the larger, more robust cousin of those small throw tents. It is one of the best tents for a family because it removes the number one stressor of camping, the pole wrestling match. You just unfold the legs, extend them until they click, and your base camp is ready.

I noticed during my field testing that the Timber Ridge uses a heavy-duty 150D polyester floor, which is much tougher than the materials found in the Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL2. In my guide on how to fold a pop up tent, I talked about the importance of not fighting the frame, and the same applies here. The hydraulic-like struts do the heavy lifting for you, but you have to be gentle when closing them to ensure the fabric does not get caught in the hinges. This is a level of convenience that makes spontaneous weekend trips much more likely.

According to various car camping communities, the Timber Ridge is a favorite for families who only stay for one or two nights. The fast pitch and even faster teardown mean you spend more time on the trail and less time in the parking lot. I suggest that if you are a parent with young children who cannot be left alone for long, the Timber Ridge is the best investment you can make. As for the best tents for families, any gear that reduces your stress level is worth its weight in gold. It is a reliable, spacious, and incredibly fast shelter that turns camp setup into a non-event.

Click here to read the full review of the Timber Ridge Tent.

Is the Big Agnes Bunk House 6 the best tent for family camping in extreme comfort?

Big Agnes Bunk House – Large Family Tent, 3 Season Waterproof Backpacking Gear, Easy Set Up for Groups

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The direct answer to whether the Big Agnes Bunk House 6 is the best premium choice is a resounding yes because it combines technical mountain architecture with a massive front porch that turns into a legitimate outdoor living room. I have tested many high-end technical tents for my best ultralight tents guides, and the Bunk House 6 is the family-sized version of that technical excellence. It is the best tent for family camping for those who want a base camp that can handle high-altitude winds while providing enough room to set up a full kitchen under the awning.

I noticed during my testing that the Bunk House 6 uses high-quality DAC DA17 poles that are much thicker than the fiberglass found in the Coleman Montana 8-person tent. In my post on how to clean a musty tent, I explained that fabric density is the key to insulation, and the Bunk House stays much warmer on cold nights than budget domes. It also features a unique stowable door design that allows you to keep the entrance wide open for maximum airflow. It feels like a professional expedition rig that has been scaled up for a family of four or five.

According to technical gear reports from the overlanding community, the Bunk House is a favorite for long-term travelers who live out of their vehicles for months. It is built to survive hundreds of setup cycles without the zippers failing or the seams flaking. This is one of the best tents for families that provides the most peace of mind in a storm. If you are a serious adventurer who takes your family into remote areas, the Big Agnes is the technical sanctuary you want. It is a high-performance investment in your crew’s safety and comfort.

Click here to read the full review of the Big Agnes Bunk House Tent.

Why is the Hikergarden Tent the best value for massive groups looking for the best tents for families?

HIKERGARDEN 10 Person Camping Tent – Portable Easy Set Up Family Tent for Camp, Windproof Fabric Dome Tent Outdoor for Hiking, Backpacking, Traveling-14’x11’x74in(H)

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The direct answer to why the Hikergarden Tent is a top seller on Amazon is that it provides a massive 10-person capacity and a two-room layout for a price that is often under 150 dollars. I have analyzed many budget models for my best pop up tent lists, and the Hikergarden is the king of the absolute budget category. It is one of the best tents for families on a tight budget because it provides 168 square feet of space, which is enough to fit three queen air mattresses side-by-side. I found that while it is not as technical as the Big Agnes, it is an honest and functional shelter for summer campouts.

I noticed during my testing that the Hikergarden features a very fine mesh roof that provides excellent ventilation during hot summer nights. In my guide on how to prevent mosquito bites while camping, I mentioned that airflow is your best defense against bugs, and this tent moves a lot of air. However, because the rainfly is a small cap style, I highly suggest you follow the steps in my guide on how to waterproof a tent before you take this model on a real trip. A bottle of seam sealer will turn this basic shelter into a much more reliable sanctuary.

According to thousands of Amazon user reviews, the Hikergarden is the go-to choice for backyard camping and occasional weekend trips to state parks. It is not built for the backcountry or for extreme mountain weather, but for a family that wants to try out the hobby without spending a fortune, it is the perfect entry point. As for the best tents for families, you do not need the most expensive gear to have a great time. The Hikergarden provides the space and the privacy you need to make memories without breaking the bank. It is a simple, spacious, and incredibly affordable way to get your crew under the stars.

Click here to read the full review of the Hikergarden Tent.

What are the most common questions parents ask when looking for the best tents for families?

The direct answer to why choosing the right gear is so stressful for parents is that the stakes are much higher when you have children involved: as a single gear failure can end a trip before it even starts. I have spent years answering questions in various outdoor forums, and I have realized that most people are searching for the best tents for families that can handle both the chaos of kids and the unpredictability of the weather. I have gathered the five most frequent concerns I hear from the community to help you finalize your decision.

Are 10-person tents actually too big for a family of four?

The honest answer is no; a 10-person tent is often the perfect size for a family of four who wants a comfortable base camp. Once you add two queen-sized air mattresses, a cooler, and several bags of clothes, a smaller tent becomes a maze of gear. Choosing one of the best camping tents for families with a high capacity ensures you have a walking path in the middle and a designated area for the kids to play if it starts to rain. It is always better to have too much room than to be tripping over each other all night.

How do I choose between an instant cabin and a technical dome?

The direct answer depends on whether you value setup speed or packed weight. Instant cabins, like the Timber Ridge, use pre-attached poles that snap together in seconds. These are the best tents for family camping if you often arrive at your site late or have toddlers who need constant supervision. However, technical domes like the Marmot Limestone are much lighter and handle high winds better. If you have a small car, the compact pack size of a dome is a major advantage. If you have a large SUV, the standing room of a cabin is the winner.

Can I set up these massive tents by myself while watching the kids?

Yes, but you need to choose a hubbed system or an instant frame. I have timed myself setting up the Kelty Wireless 6 and the Fanttik Outdoor models alone, and they both took less than ten minutes. In my guide for the best pop up tent, I talked about the luxury of speed, and the same logic applies to the best family tent category. Look for tents with color-coded webbing and a single-pole hub. These features allow you to get the main structure standing in minutes, so you can get back to keeping the kids safe and fed.

What is the best way to prevent condensation in a crowded family tent?

The direct answer is to maximize airflow by keeping all mesh windows and roof vents open, even if it is a bit chilly outside. When you have four or five people breathing in a small space, you generate a massive amount of moisture. If you zip the tent up completely, you will wake up with what I call indoor rain. I always suggest choosing a model with a full mesh ceiling, such as the Naturehike Mongar 2 or the Hikergarden. Managing this moisture is the only way to prevent your gear from smelling like old gym socks.

Are expensive technical tents worth the money for casual family trips?

The direct answer is yes if you plan on camping more than twice a year for the next decade. While budget clones are fine for fair-weather backyard use, technical tents from brands like Big Agnes and MSR use materials that will not degrade in the sun or leak during a heavy storm. I have found that spending more upfront for the best tents for a family saves you money in the long run because you are not replacing a broken fiberglass pole or a ripped floor every two seasons. Think of a technical tent as an investment in your crew’s safety and your own peace of mind.

What is the final verdict on the best tents for families in 2026?

The direct answer to the final verdict is that your choice should be based on a realistic assessment of your vehicle’s storage space and your personal need for privacy. After testing the top 10 models on the market, I am convinced that the Big Agnes Bunk House 6 is the absolute best choice for families who want a premium technical base camp that provides a legitimate outdoor living room. It handles the elements better than any budget cabin and offers a level of comfort that makes long-distance tours enjoyable. However, if you are looking for the best tents for families that prioritize privacy and floor space on a budget, the UNP 10 Person Tent is the clear winner for its room dividers and massive interior volume.

I have spent a significant amount of time building this hub to be a definitive resource for the community. I noticed that many people start by asking about the best family camping tent gear and then get overwhelmed by the options. My expert insight is to always prioritize the plus two rule: if there are four of you, buy a six-person tent. If there are six of you, go for the ten-person models. This extra space is what determines if your trip feels like an adventure or an endurance test. If you are still worried about the bugs at your site, make sure to read my full guide on how to prevent mosquito bites while camping before you leave the house.

One thing I have learned from my years in the dirt is that the right tent is the one that removes the friction from your experience. I have discussed the importance of weight in my best ultralight tents guide, but for a family, the weight is worth the volume. The Kodiak Canvas Flex Blow is a perfect example of this; it is heavy, but it is a fortress that will last your entire life. If you are planning a trip to a specialized location, you should also check my breakdown on how much does it cost to go to Camp Mystic to see how professional organizers manage their gear budgets.

The world of best tents for families is constantly evolving, and I am here to help you stay ahead of the curve. I look forward to seeing your family rig out on the trail. Camping is about making memories, and having a dry, spacious, and secure tent is the first step toward a successful journey. I will see you at the next trailhead.

Ready to find your perfect family base camp?

Click here to check the current price of the Big Agnes Bunk House 6 on Amazon.

Click here to check the current price of the UNP 10 Person Tent on Amazon.